Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 20, 2026
In Vivo Infection with Leishmania amazonensis to Evaluate Parasite Virulence in Mice
Published on: February 20, 2020
Leucocyte migration inhibition factor (L-MIF) in malnourished Nigerian children
N P Fongwo1, O G Arinola, L S Salimonu
1Department of Chemical Pathology, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria.
Abstract:
Leucocyte Migration Inhibition Factor (L-MIF) was measured in 41 children with marasmus, 19 with kwashiorkor, 5 with marasmic-kwashiorkor and 35 well-fed healthy children serving as controls. For L-MIF assay, two different antigens (live attenuated measles virus vaccine and diptheria pertussis tetanus (DPT) vaccine were used. Percentage migration indices obtained with the two antigens were significantly higher in the malnourished than in the well-fed healthy sex and age-matched controls (P < 0.01). The total serum protein and albumin concentrations were significantly reduced in the malnourished children compared with the controls (P < 0.01). Mean total leucocyte numbers were not significantly different in marasmic and marasmic-kwashiorkor children compared with the controls (P > 0.21).
Insights
Malnourished children exhibit elevated Leucocyte Migration Inhibition Factor (L-MIF) levels, indicating altered immune responses. This study highlights immune system changes in severe childhood malnutrition.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Pediatrics
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Childhood malnutrition, including marasmus and kwashiorkor, significantly impacts immune function.
- Leucocyte Migration Inhibition Factor (L-MIF) is a key cytokine involved in cellular immune responses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate Leucocyte Migration Inhibition Factor (L-MIF) levels in children with different forms of malnutrition.
- To compare L-MIF responses to specific vaccine antigens in malnourished versus well-nourished children.
Main Methods:
- Assessed L-MIF levels using percentage migration indices in response to measles and DPT vaccines.
- Measured total serum protein and albumin concentrations.
- Quantified mean total leucocyte counts.
Main Results:
- Malnourished children showed significantly higher L-MIF responses to both measles and DPT antigens compared to controls (P < 0.01).
- Significantly reduced total serum protein and albumin levels were observed in malnourished children (P < 0.01).
- No significant difference in mean total leucocyte numbers was found between malnourished and control groups (P > 0.21).
Conclusions:
- Elevated L-MIF in malnourished children suggests a dysregulated cellular immune response.
- Nutritional status critically influences immune mediator production, even with normal leucocyte counts.
