Collagen-Induced Arthritis

Effects of anti-inflammatory compounds geared towards rheumatoid arthritis are tested in this model. DBA/1Jlacj mice are injected intradermally at the base of the tail with type II collagen (bovine) with incomplete Freund's adjuvant and heat killed Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Lewis rats will be treated similarly except no Freund's adjuvant is required. Arthitis will appear in mice from 24 to 42 days or in rats from 9-16 days. Total duration of study is dependent on the needs of the client, but generally animals are followed for at least one month. Severity of arthritis is determined by a visual scoring system as well as paw volume using a plethysmometer, and, upon request, histology of affected joints.