Active induction of experimental allergic encephalomyelitis

Abstract

This protocol details a method to actively induce experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE), a widely used animal model for studies of multiple sclerosis. EAE is induced by stimulating T-cell-mediated immunity to myelin antigens. Active induction of EAE is accomplished by immunization with myelin antigens emulsified in adjuvant. This protocol focuses on induction of EAE in mice; however, the same principles apply to EAE induction in other species. EAE in rodents is manifested typically as ascending flaccid paralysis with inflammation targeting the spinal cord. However, more diverse clinical signs can occur in certain strain/antigen combinations in rodents and in other species, reflecting increased inflammation in the brain.