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Amyloidosis induced in hamsters by a filarid parasite (Dipetalonema viteae)
Abstract:
Amyloidosis was induced in hmasters infected with the filarial nematode parasite, Dipetalonema viteae. The incidence of amyloidosis was 64% in a group inoculated with 150 larvae and 54% in the group receiving 150 larvae in each of two inoculations. Amyloidosis was not seen in control animals. Microfilariae probably served as the antigenic stimulus in the pathogenesis of amyloidosis, since those animals in which amyloidosis was formed had microfilaremias that were significantly greater (P less than 0.05) both in number and duration than those in infected animals that did not develop amyloidosis. Other reports of amyloidosis associated with filariasis are reviewed.
Insights
Filarial nematode parasite infection in hamsters induced amyloidosis. Higher microfilariae levels correlated with increased amyloidosis incidence, suggesting microfilariae as the antigenic stimulus.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Immunoparasitology
- Tropical Medicine
Background:
- Amyloidosis is a group of diseases characterized by the deposition of amyloid protein.
- Filarial nematode infections are known to cause various pathological conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the induction of amyloidosis in hamsters infected with the filarial nematode Dipetalonema viteae.
- To explore the role of microfilariae in the pathogenesis of filariasis-associated amyloidosis.
Main Methods:
- Induction of amyloidosis in hamsters via inoculation with Dipetalonema viteae larvae.
- Quantification and duration assessment of microfilaremia in infected hamsters.
- Comparison of microfilaremia levels between animals that developed amyloidosis and those that did not.
Main Results:
- Amyloidosis was observed in 64% and 54% of hamsters receiving one or two inoculations of larvae, respectively.
- No amyloidosis was detected in control animals.
- Significantly higher microfilaremia (number and duration) was found in hamsters that developed amyloidosis (P < 0.05).
Conclusions:
- Dipetalonema viteae infection can induce amyloidosis in hamsters.
- Microfilariae are likely the antigenic stimulus driving amyloidosis pathogenesis in filariasis.
- Findings support a link between filariasis and amyloidosis, consistent with other reports.