Strain-specific induction of experimental autoimmune prostatitis (EAP) in mice.

BACKGROUND

Prostatitis, a clinical syndrome characterized by pelvic pain and inflammation, is common in adult males. Although several induced and spontaneous murine models of prostatitis have been explored, the role of genetic background on induction has not been well-defined.

METHODS

Using a standard methodology for the induction of experimental autoimmune prostatitis (EAP), we investigated both acute and chronic inflammation on several murine genetic backgrounds.

RESULTS

In our colony, nonobese diabetic (NOD) mice evinced spontaneous prostatitis that was not augmented by immunization with rat prostate extract (RPE). In contrast, the standard laboratory strain Balb/c developed chronic inflammation in response to RPE immunization. Development of EAP in other strains was variable.

CONCLUSIONS

These data suggest that Balb/c mice injected with RPE may provide a useful model for chronic prostatic inflammation.