Serological and histological characterization of the new mutant strain of lpr mice, CBA/KlJms-lprcg/lprcg.

CBA/KlJms-lprcg/lprcg mice with a novel mutation producing systemic lymphoproliferation were investigated for their serological and histological characteristics. The mutant mice showed elevated levels of serum immunoglobulin, C1q-binding immune complexes and antibodies to nuclear antigens such as dsDNA and ssDNA and poly(ADP-ribose). In contrast, histopathological lesions, e.g. glomerulonephritis, vasculitis or interstitial pneumonitis, were not revealed by histological and immunofluorescent examinations, except for lymphocytic infiltration in various organs. These results suggest that this mutant mouse strain may provide a new animal model for autoimmunity. However, further investigations are required to clarify whether this strain is unique as compared with other well-known lupus-prone strains of mice with respect to serological and histological abnormalities and become to be a new model of systemic autoimmune disease.