Modification of NZB/NZW F1 Autoimmune Disease by Development of Tolerance to DNA

NZB/NZW F1 mice that received from birth prolonged high dose administration of SDNA-poly-d-lysine, or intermittent SDNA-poly-d-lysine followed by cyclophosphamide lived significantly longer than their controls. In association with the increased survival the following alterations in laboratory parameters were observed: decreased levels of anti-DNA antibodies, decreased numbers of spleen plaque-forming cells against DNA-coated RBC, less histologic and immunofluorescent evidence of glomerulonephritis, and less IgG in kidney eluates. The results suggest that tolerance to SDNA will increase survival and decrease tissue lesions.