Experimental study of δ-ALA-PDT in the treatment in BXSB lupus-prone mice.

Extracorporeal photochemotherapy can correct immune disease and treat many autoimmune diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of delta-aminolevulinic acid photodynamic therapy (δ-ALA-PDT) on BXSB mouse. The 24-h urine protein, titers of serum antinuclear antibodies, peripheral blood lymphocyte apoptosis and deposition of immune complex in renal glomeruli were determined in BXSB mice after δ-ALA-PDT treatment. Results showed that δ-ALA-PDT treatment could reduce 24-h urine protein, titers of serum antinuclear antibodies, and deposition of immune complex in renal glomeruli. The δ-ALA-PDT treatment could also lead to significant increase in the rate of peripheral blood lymphocytes.