Rat Experimental Autoimmune Gastritis Model

Background Autoimmune gastritis (AIG) is an autoimmune disease of the stomach characterized by the destruction of the oxyntic mucosa, which stops producing acid and becomes both functionally and morphologically atrophic. The pathogenic mechanisms behind the disease are still poorly understood. There is no early diagnosis and specific AIG therapy. To elucidate the pathogenesis of AIG, to search for early diagnostic markers, as well as to test new therapeutic approaches, an adequate and easily reproducible experimental model for autoimmune gastritis (EAG) is needed. Existing EAG models have some limitations, including slow development of signs, absence of advanced gastritis, irrational use of animals to obtain antigen. The aim was to find out whether it is possible to cause autoimmune gastritis similar to human disease in Wistar rats through immunization with a homologous gastric mucosa extract.