Collagen-induced arthritis

Collagen-induced arthritis
Synonyms	CIA
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Joint pain, swelling, stiffness
Complications	Chronic pain, joint damage
Onset	Typically induced in laboratory settings
Duration	Variable, depending on experimental conditions
Types	N/A
Causes	Autoimmune response to type II collagen
Risks	Used primarily in animal models
Diagnosis	Based on clinical signs and histopathology
Differential diagnosis	Rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Experimental treatments, immunosuppressive therapy
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Depends on experimental intervention
Frequency	Commonly used in research settings
Deaths	N/A

An animal model of rheumatoid arthritis

Collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) is an experimental model of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) that is commonly used in immunology and rheumatology research. This model is primarily used to study the pathogenesis of RA and to evaluate potential therapeutic interventions.

Overview

Collagen-induced arthritis is induced in susceptible strains of laboratory animals, such as mice and rats, by immunization with type II collagen, which is a major component of articular cartilage. The model is characterized by the development of an autoimmune response against type II collagen, leading to inflammation and joint destruction similar to that seen in human rheumatoid arthritis.

Pathogenesis

The pathogenesis of collagen-induced arthritis involves both innate and adaptive immune responses. The initial immunization with type II collagen, often emulsified in Freund's adjuvant, leads to the activation of T cells and B cells. These immune cells produce cytokines and autoantibodies that contribute to the inflammatory process and joint damage.

Role of T Cells

CD4+ T cells, particularly the Th1 and Th17 subsets, play a crucial role in the development of CIA. These cells produce pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) and interleukin-17 (IL-17), which promote the recruitment and activation of other immune cells in the joints.

Role of B Cells

B cells contribute to the pathogenesis of CIA by producing autoantibodies against type II collagen. These autoantibodies form immune complexes that deposit in the joints, leading to complement activation and further inflammation.

Clinical Features

The clinical features of collagen-induced arthritis in animal models include joint swelling, erythema, and reduced mobility. Histologically, affected joints show synovitis, pannus formation, and cartilage and bone erosion. These features closely mimic those observed in human rheumatoid arthritis.

Research Applications

Collagen-induced arthritis is widely used in preclinical studies to evaluate the efficacy of new anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive drugs. It is also used to study the mechanisms of autoimmunity and the role of specific immune cells and cytokines in the pathogenesis of arthritis.

Limitations

While CIA is a valuable model for studying rheumatoid arthritis, it has limitations. The model does not fully replicate the complexity of human RA, and the genetic and environmental factors that contribute to RA in humans are not fully represented in the animal model.

Related pages

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Autoimmunity
• Immunology
• Animal model