Ex vivo spinal cord slice model of neuromyelitis optica reveals novel immunopathogenic mechanisms.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is a neuroinflammatory disease of spinal cord and optic nerve associated with serum autoantibodies (NMO-immunoglobulin G [IgG]) against astrocyte water channel aquaporin-4 (AQP4). Recent studies suggest that AQP4 autoantibodies are pathogenic. The objectives of this study were to establish an ex vivo spinal cord slice model in which NMO-IgG exposure produces lesions with characteristic NMO pathology, and to test the involvement of specific inflammatory cell types and soluble factors.

Methods

Vibratome-cut transverse spinal cord slices were cultured on transwell porous supports. After 7 days in culture, spinal cord slices were exposed to NMO-IgG and complement for 1 to 3 days. In some studies inflammatory cells or factors were added. Slice

SUBMITTER: Zhang H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3319401 | biostudies-literature | 2011 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature