DNA microarray analysis for the identification of innate immune pathways implicated in virus-induced autoimmune diabetes

We have recently demonstrated that upregulation of the innate immune system plays a key role in KRV-induced autoimmune diabetes in the BBDR rat, but the nature of this proinflammatory reaction has not yet been addressed. Using a DNA microarray approach, we identified 569 genes upregulated in pancreatic lymph nodes following virus infection. Among the most highly activated are IL-1 pathways, IFN-γ-induced chemokines, and genes associated with interferon production and signaling. Ex vivo and in vitro studies indicate that KRV upregulates proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines in B lymphocytes and Flt-3L-induced plasmacytoid DCs (pDCs). Finally, in contrast to KRV, infection of BBDR rats with the non-diabetogenic KRV homologue H-1 parvovirus fails to induce a robust proinflammatory response in pancreatic lymph nodes. Our findings provide new insights into KRV-induced innate immune pathways that may play a role in early mechanisms leading to islet inflammation and diabetes.