Pathogenesis of chronic inflammation in experimental ferritin-induced arthritis. IV. Immuno-electron microscopic techniques in the study of articular collagenous tissues.

The earliest and most severe changes in articular collagenous tissues (ACT) occur within 24 hours of antigen challenge and are associated with and are possibly secondary to maximal immune complex deposition in ACT surfaces. The immuno-electron microscopic (immuno-em) staining characterizes the ferritin as aggregates with antibody and suggests its occurrence and deposition as a preformed immune complex. These data indicate a direct interaction between immune complexes and collagenous matrix which could relate to both antigen persistence and chronicity of the immune response. The changes described in this model have features in common with rheumatoid disease and suggest the potential for similar mechanisms of cartilage degradation.