A model for examining antinuclear antibody circulation and binding capabilities of human serum from systemic lupus erythematosus patients

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Authors
Griffin, Marley A.
Advisor
Kelly-Worden, Marie L.
Issue Date
2007
Keyword
Degree
Thesis (M.S.)
Department
Department of Physiology and Health Science
Other Identifiers
Abstract

Antinuclear antibodies (ANA) are used in screening and diagnosis of autoimmune connective tissue disorders including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). CNS related disorders are prevalent in SLE patients (–80%) and ANA binds specific sites within the brain. To investigate ANA infiltration across the blood-brain barrier (BBB), an ANA injectable Lewis rat model was created using 3 rat groups (saline, ANA, and ANA with histamine; since histamine promotes BBB permeability). ANA serum levels were tested for all three rat groups and rats injected with histamine demonstrated signs of histadelia. Brain slices were obtained and examined for the presence of ANA using immunofluorescence. ANA infiltration across the BBB was observed in ANA injected groups. Though the ANA and ANA histamine groups were significantly different from controls (p<0.034, p<0.030, respectively), no significance between ANA and ANA histamine groups was observed. This model could further be used to examine BBB permeability and potential drug therapy.

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