Silicosis and Silica-Induced Autoimmunity in the Diversity Outbred Mouse.

ABSTRACT: Epidemiological studies have confidently linked occupational crystalline silica exposure to autoimmunity, but pathogenic mechanisms and role of genetic predisposition remain poorly defined. Although studies of single inbred strains have yielded insights, understanding the relationships between lung pathology, silica-induced autoimmunity, and genetic predisposition will require examination of a broad spectrum of responses and susceptibilities. We defined the characteristics of silicosis and autoimmunity and their relationships using the genetically heterogeneous diversity outbred (DO) mouse population and determined the suitability of this model for investigating silica-induced autoimmunity. Clinically relevant lung and autoimmune phenotypes were assessed 12 weeks after a transoral dose of

SUBMITTER: Mayeux JM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5932595 | biostudies-literature | 2018

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature