Experimental autoimmune uveitis (EAU) is a T-cell-mediated disease expressing high endothelial venules (HEVs) in the retina. HEVs could be responsible for the absorption of activated T-cells. The purpose of this study was to investigate the kinetics of HEV expression in the murine IRBP (interphotoreceptor retinoid binding protein) induced EAU.
Methods: B10. A mice were immunized subcutaneously with IRBP. The eyes were analysed on days 10, 18, 24 and 28 (n = 5 for each time point). While HEVs were identified with the mAb MECA 325, the control mAb MECA 20 stained all endothelial cells.
Results: HEVs were detectable in the intact retina from day 10. Presence of HEVs peaked on day 18 and decreased by day 28, when maximal inflammation and retinal destruction was detectable.
Conclusion: HEV expression could play a central role in the onset of EAU, allowing homing and migration of inflammatory cells into the eye.