Published in:
Open Access 01-02-2010 | Research article
RNAi-mediated CD40-CD154 interruption promotes tolerance in autoimmune arthritis
Published in: Arthritis Research & Therapy | Issue 1/2010
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Introduction
We have previously demonstrated that ex vivo inhibition of costimulatory molecules on antigen-pulsed dendritic cells (DCs) can be useful for induction of antigen-specific immune deviation and suppression of autoimmune arthritis in the collagen induced arthritis (CIA) model. The current study evaluated a practical method of immune modulation through temporary systemic inhibition of the costimulatory molecule CD40.
Methods
Mice with collagen II (CII)-induced arthritis (CIA) were administered siRNA targeting the CD40 molecule. Therapeutic effects were evaluated by clinical symptoms, histopathology, Ag-specific T cell and B cell immune responses.
Results
Systemic administration of CD40-targeting siRNA can inhibit antigen-specific T cell response to collagen II, as well as prevent pathogenesis of disease in both a pre- and post-immunization manner in the CIA model. Disease amelioration was associated with suppression of Th1 cytokines, attenuation of antibody production, and upregulation of T regulatory cells.
Conclusions
These studies support the feasibility of transient gene silencing at a systemic level as a mechanism of resetting autoreactive immunity.