IL-7R signaling protects Rag⁻ mice from DSS-induced colitis.

<p>(<b>A, B</b>) WT (n = 4), Rag⁻ (n = 8), Rag⁻IL-7R⁻ (n = 7) and Rag⁻OT-I⁺ mice (n = 6) received dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) via the drinking water. From day 5 on, DSS-free drinking water was provided. (<b>A</b>) Body weight was determined every day and calculated in relation to the initial body weight. Shown are the mean relative body weight ± SEM and the time after onset of DSS treatment. (<b>B, C</b>) Colon samples were taken at day 8 and analyzed histologically. Shown are histological scores for groups of untreated (open symbols; n = 4) and DSS-treated mice (closed symbols; n = 6–8). (<b>C</b>) Shown are representative colon sections from the indicated mice. (<b>A–C</b>) Data represent one experiment.