We have been studying expression of 8.4 kb endogenous MCF related RNA which is found in thymuses of autoimmune-prone but not other mouse strains. The lupus-associated expression is limited to the Mpmv sub-set of MCF endogenous retroviral sequences. In contrast, the Pmv subset expression is associated with mitogenic stimulation. CD 5+ B cells, thought to be important in autoantibody secretion, are present in increase percentages in the peritoneal cavities of mice of many strains. Using in situ hybridization, we have found that peritoneal B cells produce levels of Ig mRNA intermediate between those of resting B cells and plasma cells. However, the mRNA was of the membrane rather than the secreted form. Moreover splenic B cells produced much more Ig in short-term culture than did peritoneal B cells. Thus, cells may be stimulated in the peritoneal cavity but appear to leave prior to Ig secretion.

Project Start
Project End
Budget Start
Budget End
Support Year
23
Fiscal Year
1990
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
State
Country
United States
Zip Code