Induction of autoimmune prostatitis using liposomes is associated to peritoneal cells activation.

Abstract

Study and characterization of rat peritoneal cells (PC) involved in the induction of autoimmune prostatitis after the intraperitoneal administration of native extract of accessory glands (RAG) associated with liposomes (RAGL). Induction of the autoimmune response in normal recipients by transferring PC or adherent-PC loaded with RAGL (RAGL-PC), but not with PC loaded with empty liposomes (L-PC). Characterization of the morphology, the ultrastructure, and the phenotype of L-PC or RAGL-PC. Study of the respiratory burst by the nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT) reduction assay after stimulation with phorbol myristate acetate (PMA) in both L-PC and RAGL-PC. Liposomes attached to the cell surface of the M phi were observed by electron microscopy. FACS analyses showed a similar staining pattern with high expression of Ia molecules on L-PC and RAGL-PC compared with controls. PMA-stimulated L-PC or RAGL-PC markedly reduced the NBT compared with controls. Our results suggest that the effective uptake of liposomes and the initial activation of PC together with a prolonged stimulatory effect help to disrupt the tolerance state. The present experimental model is an interesting approach to further characterize events associated with antigenic presentation when an autoimmune response is triggered.