Evolución temporal de marcadores metabólicos y de enfermedad autoinmune en un modelo de lupus eritematoso

Abstract

Introduction There is an association between metabolic syndrome (MS) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Female New-Zealand Black-White first generation (BWF1) mouse is an established model of human SLE, also showing MS characteristics. We studied in this model the temporal evolution of MS and SLE markers, and their relationship with the proportion of regulatory T cells (Tregs). Methods 32 female mice New-Zealand White (control) and 32 female mice BWF1 (SLE group) were studied during 28 weeks, determining solid food consumption and body weight. At week 8, 16, 24 and 32, animals were sacrificed, to determine: the weight of visceral adipose tissue, the proportion of CD4 +, CD4 +CD25 + and Tregs cells in splenic lymphocytes, the liver and plasma triglyceride concentrations, and the plasma concentrations of glucose, insulin, leptin, anti-dsDNA antibodies, and creatinin. Results SLE mice showed, until the age of 16 weeks, signs of metabolic alterations such as hyperphagia, hyperleptinaemia, and an increased body weight, related to a high amount of visceral adipose tissue, as well as an increased proportion of Tregs cells. From the week 16 on, a drastic change ensued, with an increase in the plasma concentration of anti-dsDNA antibodies, matching the disappearance of MS signs. Conclusion The presence of leptin resistance during the first few weeks of life could explain not only the high consumption of solid diet presented by SLE mice, but also the increase in the proportion of Tregs cells.