Optimization of Induction Protocols for Experimental Autoimmune Myasthenia Gravis.

Abstract

Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune di sease characterized by muscle weakness. Experimental autoimmune myasthenia gravis (EAMG) serves as an animal model for MG research. Despite advancements in EAMG modeling, limited drug absorption and variability in disease manifestation among animals resulted in a low success rate of model induction. This study aimed to optimize and standardize the modeling process by exploring different induction conditions to improve success rates. We employed female Lewis rats and C57BL/6 mice to compare their sensitivity to model induction and applied a controlled variable approach to acetylcholine receptor (AChR) and H37Ra dosage, mixing time, and injection sites. Results showed that Lewis rats were more suitable than C57BL/6 mice, and 75 µg AChR peptides were more effective than 50 µg. The immune-boosting effect of 1 mg H37Ra Mycobacterium tuberculosis was weaker than 2 mg. While drug mixing time had little impact, increasing injection sites on backs and including foot pads injection, significantly improved drug absorption.