Genetically determined murine models of immunodeficiency.

We have discussed more than 30 mutant genes known to cause abnormalities in the development and regulation of the immune system. The loci defined by these deleterious alleles have been assigned to 13 different autosomal chromosomes in addition to X and Y. It is important to note that these single genes do not act alone but function in concert with the background genome. Studies of these mutations on different inbred strain backgrounds are contributing important information on the influence of background modifying genes. The development of stocks of mice carrying multiple mutations on an inbred strain background enables the use of a well-characterized mutation to explore a less-well-understood genetic model. Investigators are urged to assure proper conditions for studies with immunological mutants by using the appropriate methods of animal husbandry. A detailed guide for maintaining immunologically compromised rodents has been prepared. These experiments performed by nature provide a valuable resource for investigating the immune system in normal and pathologic states. As the gene products of the loci defined by these mutations become known, the information obtained will provide additional insight into mechanisms underlying normal immune function as well as immunologic disease processes in man.