Abstract

PURPOSE:

To identify costimulatory molecules that are important in the effector phase of experimental autoimmune uveitis (EAU).

METHODS:

EAU was induced in C57BL/6 (B6) mice by transfer of activated T cells specific for the interphotoreceptor-binding protein (IRBP) 1-20 peptide. The animals were then treated with and without anti-leukocyte function associated antigen (LFA)-1alpha mAb, at day 0 or 10 (disease onset) after T-cell transfer. Clinical signs of inflammation, ocular histology, and infiltrated inflammatory cells in the eye were compared. The primary and secondary proliferative responses of uveitogenic CD4 and CD8 T cells were tested after treatment with costimulatory blockers in vivo and in vitro. Moreover, the abilities of uveitogenic T cell trafficking and their interaction with retinal astrocytes were examined.

RESULTS:

Anti-LFA-1alpha Abs caused significant suppression of disease when administered either at the time of effector uveitogenic T cell transfer or at disease onset. Studies of the mechanisms by which anti-LFA-1alpha Ab inhibits the effector phase of uveitis demonstrated that it blocks multiple pathogenic events of uveitis mediated by IRBP-specific uveitogenic T cells, including the activation of T cells outside and inside the eye and the trafficking of activated autoreactive T cells into the inflammatory site. In addition, Ab treatment selectively suppressed the activation and expansion of pathogenic, but not regulatory, T cells in vivo.

CONCLUSIONS:

Anti-LFA-1alpha Abs are potent inhibitors of established autoimmune uveitis and that such treatment may be applicable not only for the prevention, but also the treatment, of T-cell-mediated autoimmune diseases.