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Immunoglobulins produced by the antigenized equine fetus
Journal of Reproduction and Fertility. Supplement
|October 1, 1975
Summary
Foals gain immunity after fetal exposure to Venezuelan equine encephalomyelitis virus (VEE-TC83) or ovine erythrocytes. This fetal immune response, including immunoglobulin G (IgG) production, was stronger than in adult horses.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Equine Science
- Virology
Background:
- Foals are born with minimal passive immunity, lacking detectable antibodies except for small amounts of IgM.
- The development of a robust fetal immune system in equines is crucial for early-life protection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the fetal immune response to specific antigens administered *in utero*.
- To compare the efficacy of fetal immune stimulation with that of adult immune responses.
Main Methods:
- Intrafetal administration of Venezuelan equine encephalomyelitis virus (VEE-TC83) or ovine erythrocytes in foals.
- Analysis of fetal blood for immunoglobulin (Ig) production, including IgG subclasses (IgGa, IgGb, IgG(T)).
- Measurement of VEE-TC83 neutralization titers in fetal blood compared to adult horses.
Main Results:
- Intrafetal administration of VEE-TC83 or ovine erythrocytes successfully elicited fetal production of IgGa, IgGb, and trace amounts of IgG(T).
- Fetal blood demonstrated higher VEE-TC83 neutralization titers compared to those elicited by the same preparation in older horses.
Conclusions:
- The equine fetus possesses the capacity to mount a significant humoral immune response, including IgG production, following *in utero* antigen exposure.
- Fetal immune responses, as indicated by neutralization titers, can be more potent than those in adult horses for certain antigens.