Animal models in autoimmune disease in immunotoxicity assessment

Abstract

To assess the immunotoxicological potential of chemicals or drugs in autoimmune processes, different autoimmune disease models are available in animals. They may provide good examples of the same immunological processes which are involved in natural human autoimmune diseases. Some models, such as those of arthritis, lupus, diabetes, thyroiditis and encephalitis, are discussed. Unfortunately, the diversity of their different possibilities of immunoregulation and outcome makes it very difficult to standardise a model for the purpose of the immunotoxicology study. Some drugs show controversial activities in different models. Indeed, in some models, the autoimmune disease occurs spontaneously, in some others it has to be induced. The incidence and severity can change from one species to the other and varies with sex and strain. Stress and infection can also exert a strong influence. Until now, it is impossible to suggest one ideal animal model to study autoimmune toxicity of chemicals or drugs.