Objective: To examine the efficacy of deoxyribonuclease I (DNAse) therapy in the (NZB x NZW)F1 murine model of lupus.
Methods: Lupus-prone female (NZB x NZW)F1 mice were treated daily with 0-15 microg/g of recombinant DNAse for 1-6 months. Parameters including anti-DNA autoantibody production, activation of cytokine secreting cells, kidney function and longevity were monitored.
Results: DNAse treatment selectively reduced the number of B cells secreting anti-dsDNA antibodies for approximately one month. However, neither short-term nor long-term treatment altered cytokine production, delayed the onset or reduced the severity of glomerulonephritis, or prolonged survival.
Conclusion: DNAse treatment initiated before, during, or after the onset of murine lupus did not improve clinical outcome.