Does the deletion within T cell receptor beta-chain gene of NZW mice contribute to autoimmunity in (NZB X NZW)F1 mice?

To determine the transacting genetic factors of NZW contributing to the development of autoimmune disease in (NZB X NZW)F1 (B/W F1) mice, we examined the relationship between the T cell receptor beta chain gene deletion and the severity of autoimmune manifestations in 76 B/W F1 X NZB backcross mice. Very high association between the T cell receptor beta chain gene deletion and the development of autoimmune manifestations including the production of IgG anti-DNA antibodies and circulating retroviral gp70 immune complexes was observed, indicating that a defect in the NZW T cell receptor beta chain gene or a locus closely linked to it contributes to the autoantibody formation in B/W F1.