FcγRIIB deficiency with Fas mutation is sufficient for the development of systemic autoimmune disease

MRL.Fas^lpr/lpr mice, a model for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and arthritis in humans, have a Fas mutation that results in spontaneous development of systemic autoimmune diseases and a short life span. Half of them die by 5-6 months of age due to massive progression of systemic autoimmune diseases, such as lupus nephritis. However, C57BL/6 (B6).Fas^lpr/lpr strain does not develop such disorders within the normal life span, indicating that suppressor gene(s) in B6 mice may control the onset and exacerbation of disease. Here, we show that the gene for a unique inhibitory Fc receptor for IgG (FcγRIIB) is a critical SLE suppressor. FcγRIIB-deficient B6.Fas^lpr/lpr (B6.IIB^-/-Fas^lpr/lpr) mice developed systemic autoimmune diseases, including anti-DNA and anti-type II collagen autoantibodies and cryoglobulin production, immune complex glomerulonephritis and arthritis. They were short-lived, due to enhanced autoantibody production by B cells culminating in fatal lupus nephritis. Thus, FcγRIIB deletion with Fas mutation is sufficient for the development of systemic autoimmunity in B6 mice. The inhibitory signaling cascade via FcγRIIB may be critical for suppressing SLE in humans.