Effect of castration and sex hormone treatment on survival, anti-nucleic acid antibodies, and glomerulonephritis in NZB/NZW F1 mice.

Authors:
  • JRJ R Roubinian
    J R Roubinian
  • NTN Talal
    N Talal
  • JGJ S Greenspan
    J S Greenspan
  • JGJ R Goodman
    J R Goodman
  • PSP K Siiteri
    P K Siiteri
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Abstract
NZB/NZW F1 mice of both sexes were castrated at 2 wk of age and implanted subcutaneously with silastic tubes containing either 5-alpha-dihydrotestosterone or estradiol-17-beta. Mice receiving androgen showed improved survival, reduced anti-nucleic acid antibodies, or less evidence of glomerulonephritis as determined by light, immunofluorescent, and electron microscopy. By contrast, opposite effects were observed in castrated mice receiving estrogen. Intact male NZB/NZW F1 mice received androgen implants at 8 mo, an age when they develop an accelerated autoimmune disease associated with a decline in serum testosterone concentration. Such treated mice had improved survival and reduced concentrations of antibodies to DNA and to polyadenylic acid (Poly A). Prepubertal castration of male NZB/NZW F1 mice results in an earlier appearance of IgG antibodies to Poly A. This effect of castration was prevented if neonatal thymectomy was also performed.

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