Deciphering Molecular and Phenotypic Changes Associated with Early Autoimmune Disease in the Aire-Deficient Mouse Model of Sjogren's Syndrome.

ABSTRACT: Sjögren's syndrome (SS) is characterized by extensive lymphocytic infiltration of the salivary and lacrimal gland (LG), resulting in acinar cell destruction and organ dysfunction. The underlying pathogenesis of SS remains largely unknown, and studies historically focus on defining late-stage disease. Here, we identify tissue programs associated with disease onset using transcriptomic and immunohistological analysis of LGs from 5- and 7-week-old mice deficient in autoimmune response element (Aire). At 5 weeks of age (wk), Aire-/- mice show minimal tissue dysfunction and destruction compared to 7 wk Aire-/-, which exhibit severe dry eye, poor tear secretion, extensive lymphocytic infiltration, reduced functional innervation, and increased vascularization. Despite this mild phenotype, 5 wk Ai

SUBMITTER: Chen FY 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6274681 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature