In the prophylactic treatment experiments, rat anti-mouse IL-7Rα monoclonal antibody (mAb) (M595, rat IgG2b; Amgen) was administered starting at the time of collagen boost (experimental day 21) and on days 24, 27, and 30. Intraperitoneal (IP) injections of anti–IL-7Rα as neutralizing antibody were given at a dosage of either 100 μg or 500 μg. This is the protocol for the assessment of rheumatoid arthritis to make clear that prophylactic blockade of IL-7Rα decreased arthritis severity and joint destruction in CIA.