Objective: To investigate the chronic hypersensitivity (CHS) to dinitrofluorobenzene (DNFB) in metallothionein gene knocked-out (MT -/-) mice and wild mice (MT +/+) with homologous genes.
Methods: Mice were sensitized by applying DNFB on abdominal skin and CHS was induced on right ears. The CHS was observed by ear swelling.
Results: In comparison with metallothionein--null mice, the ear swelling of normal control wild mice was significantly greater. (P < 0.05, Students t test).
Conclusion: Metallothioneins play an important role in the CHS. Metallothionein gene knocked-out (MT -/-) mice express less inflammation of CHS.