Effects of Exposure to Gold and of Dietary Restriction upon Globulin Nephritis in Rabbits. ∗

Abstract

Summary

1. Eighteen (75%) of 24 unilaterally nephrectomized albino rabbits given 2 massive injections of bovine serum gamma globulin at 10 to 12 day intervals, developed lesions of acute diffuse extra-capillary glomerulonephritis. The disease was severe in 7 (29%). In 16 animals similarly treated, while continuously exposed to a cold environment, nephritis developed in 100%, and was severe in 56%. It is concluded that these differences in severity are probably significant, and may be related to a general increase in metabolic activity, in which increased antibody production is the important factor. 2. None of 12 animals similarly treated while under mild starvation contracted nephritis whether maintained at room temperature or exposed to cold. Inhibition of nephritis appeared to be accompanied by impairment of antibody production. 3. In view of these results it is suggested that the dietary status of animals in similar experiments must be evaluated before credit can be given any other therapeutic agent for prevention or inhibition of experimental nephritis.