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Catecholamine- and endotoxin-influenced cutaneous basophil hypersensitivity in chickens
H M Brown-Borg1, F W Edens, P M Grant
1North Carolina State University Department of Poultry Science, Raleigh 27695-7635.
Summary
Catecholamines suppress a type of immune response in chickens. This suppression is linked to beta-adrenergic receptors and corticosterone, suggesting a hormonal and receptor-based immune regulation mechanism.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Neuroendocrinology
- Avian Biology
Background:
- Cutaneous basophil hypersensitivity (CBH) is an important immune response in chickens.
- Catecholamines are known to modulate immune functions.
- The specific role of catecholamines and adrenergic receptors in avian immune responses requires further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of catecholamines on phytohemagglutinin-induced CBH in chickens.
- To identify the adrenergic receptor subtype involved in this immune modulation.
- To explore the potential involvement of plasma corticosterone in the observed effects.
Main Methods:
- Intradermal phytohemagglutinin-P (PHA-P) challenge was used to induce CBH in chickens.
- Administration of catecholamines and adrenergic receptor antagonists (reserpine, propranolol) to assess their impact on CBH.
- Measurement of plasma corticosterone levels.
Main Results:
- Catecholamines significantly suppressed PHA-P-induced CBH in chickens.
- E. coli endotoxin, reserpine, and propranolol blocked the norepinephrine-induced suppression of CBH.
- The suppression of CBH by PHA-P was associated with beta-adrenergic receptor mechanisms and plasma corticosterone levels.
Conclusions:
- Catecholamines play a suppressive role in avian cutaneous basophil hypersensitivity.
- The findings suggest a beta-adrenergic receptor-mediated pathway for catecholamine effects on CBH.
- Plasma corticosterone levels are implicated in the neuroendocrine regulation of this immune response in chickens.