a) Disease severity score of C57BL/6 mice post-gene transfer of IL-17A or
GFP, immunized and challenged with bovine collagen type II. Data pooled from 2 experiments
and a total of 20 mice analyzed. b) Representative photographic images of
inflamed mouse paws post-GFP (left) and post-IL-17A (right) gene transfer at day 37 post
collagen-induced arthritis initiation showing severe inflammation in the IL-17A gene
transfer. c) H&E staining of tissue sections of paws showing infiltration
of mononuclear cells, synovial lining cell hyperplasia, destruction of joint cartilage
layers, and fibrous ankylosis post IL-17A gene transfer. d) Micro-CT of mouse
paws showing severe bone erosion present in IL-17A MC (right) compared to GFP controls
(left). e) Relative gene expression of RANKL, TRAP5b and MMP9 from mouse paws
at 37 days post collagen-induced arthritis initiation (Data pooled from 4 mice).