Abstract
Abstract: :
Purpose: To explore the role of CD8+ T cells in experimental autoimmune anterior uveitis (EAAU). Methods: The role of CD8+ T cells in EAAU was explored using a monoclonal antibody against rat CD8 (OX8, IgG1). EAAU was induced in two panels of Lewis rats (n=6) by immunization with bovine melanin associated antigen (MAA). In the experimental panel, monoclonal antibody against rat-CD8 (200µg) was given (I.V.) everyday for 7 days prior to immunization. Controls were injected with an equal amount of non-relevant IgG (MOPC-21, IgG1). Clinical and histopathological examination was used to determine the incidence and severity of disease. For the adoptive transfer experiment, popliteal lymph nodes were harvested before the onset of EAAU and the single cell suspension was cultured with MAA for 3 days. CD4+ or CD8+ T cells were purified by Immunocolumn using a negative selection method and 2x106 CD4+ or CD8+ T cells were transferred to a naïve host. Results: Experimental autoimmune anterior uveitis was induced in Lewis rats treated with monoclonal antibodies to rat CD8. Clinical and histopathological features in these animals were similar to control animals injected with MOPC-21. EAAU can be adoptively transferred by CD4+ T cells but not by CD8+ T cells. Conclusion: CD8+ T cells may not contribute to either the induction or resolution of EAAU.
Keywords: 612 uveitis-clinical/animal model • 437 inflammation • 327 autoimmune disease