Expression of CD44 in synovium of rabbits with chronic arthritis induced by immunization with Escherichia coli.

Takagi, T; Okamoto, R; Sakai, N; Goto, H; Noyori, K; Koshino, T · J Rheumatol · 2001

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

To investigate the expression of CD44 and its role in experimental chronic arthritis in rabbits. Rabbits were immunized with Escherichia coli 0:14 for short (4 mo) and long (8-10 mo) periods. Immunohistochemical staining was performed on knees, using anti-CD44 antibodies. Lymphocyte infiltration in the synovium was found in 30.0% of rabbits after short term immunization, and the rate increased to 58.3% after longterm immunization. CD44 was present in synovial lining cells in 30.0% of rabbits after short term immunization, and it increased significantly (p < 0.05) after longterm immunization (66.7%). CD44 was also observed in lymphocytes in knee synovium after longterm immunization (25.0%). CD44 in lining cells might play a role in promoting chronic arthritis in rabbits immunized with E. coli.

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