Physiology of Immunological Phenomena in Germfree Animals.
Abstract
Three 'vertically'-transmitted viruses have been detected in germfree mice: leukemia virus, mammary tumor virus, and lymphocytic choriomeningitis (LCM) virus. All 'horizontally'-transmitted viruses have been excluded by germfree technology. LCM virus in Haas mice causes an immunoproliferative disease which can serve as an animal model system for lupus erythematosus, glomerulonephritis, and myeloma in man. The germfree LCM mice can tolerate larger doses of cyclophosphamide than conventional counterpart mice; and the LCM associated lesions have been reversed and prevented depending on age when treated. No microbial agent has been detected in germfree rats, but they are susceptible to the pathogenic effects of Gross leukemic virus and chemical carcinogenesis. The so-called 'normal' flora has been characterized in germfree mice: such mice do not respond to such organisms with germinal zones, plasma cells, serum globulins, and symptoms. The host fails to recognize such organisms as Lactobacillus casei, Streptocococcus faecalis, and Bacteroides spp., even under conditions of stress. Germfree animals are no more susceptible to pathogenic strains of Neisseria meningitidis than conventional counterpart mice. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 02, 1971
- Accession Number
- AD0755503
Entities
People
- James P. Doll
- Morris Pollard
- Nehama Sharon
Organizations
- University of Notre Dame