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Aspergillus antigen-induced eosinophil differentiation in a murine model
1Department of Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee.
Infection and Immunity
|May 1, 1992
Summary
Exposure to Aspergillus fumigatus antigens increases eosinophils in mice, suggesting a role in allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis pathogenesis. This study highlights how these antigens may drive eosinophil differentiation pathways.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Pathogenesis of Allergic Diseases
Background:
- Eosinophilia is a key feature in allergic and parasitic diseases.
- Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) involves Aspergillus fumigatus, high IgE, and eosinophilia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of eosinophils in ABPA pathogenesis using a mouse model.
- To determine if A. fumigatus antigens influence eosinophil levels and differentiation.
Main Methods:
- BALB/c mice were immunized with A. fumigatus antigens.
- Eosinophils in peripheral blood and bone marrow were enumerated.
- Bone marrow cultures assessed eosinophilopoiesis with interleukin-5 and spleen cell supernatants.
Main Results:
- Mice exposed to A. fumigatus antigens showed significantly higher peripheral blood and bone marrow eosinophil percentages compared to controls.
- Bone marrow cells from exposed mice had increased responsiveness to interleukin-5, indicating more eosinophil precursors.
- Quantification included direct counting and eosinophil peroxidase activity.
Conclusions:
- A. fumigatus antigens significantly increase eosinophil levels in mice.
- These findings suggest A. fumigatus antigens may commit stem cells to eosinophil differentiation in vivo.
- This supports the role of eosinophils in the pathogenesis of ABPA.