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Lymphoproliferative responses of specific-pathogen-free chickens to Mycoplasma gallisepticum strain PG31
1Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, St Paul, MN, USA.
Abstract:
Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) is one of the aetiologic agents of chronic respiratory disease in chickens and infectious sinusitis in turkeys. We investigated humoral and cellular immune mechanisms following experimental infection with four different strains of MG. Peripheral blood leukocytes (PBL) obtained from chickens were examined for proliferation using antigen preparations of whole cell MG as stimuli in vitro. A consistent lymphoproliferative response was observed against the homologous whole cell antigens in the group of chickens infected with strain PG31. Significant lymphoproliferation was detected as early as 1 week post-infection. We further characterized antigen-specific proliferation by measuring the production of interferon and nitric oxide by the PBL of infected chickens. Consistent with lymphoproliferation, we also detected the presence of interferon and nitric oxide in vitro in antigen-stimulated cultures. These results indicate a possible role of cell-mediated immune responses in the development of immunity following MG infection in chickens.
Insights
This study shows that chickens infected with Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) mount a cell-mediated immune response. This involves lymphoproliferation and the production of interferon and nitric oxide, suggesting a role in immunity.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Immunology
- Avian Pathology
Background:
- Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) causes significant respiratory disease in poultry.
- Understanding the immune response to MG is crucial for developing effective control strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the humoral and cellular immune responses in chickens experimentally infected with different MG strains.
- To characterize the antigen-specific immune mechanisms following MG infection.
Main Methods:
- Experimental infection of chickens with four MG strains.
- In vitro assessment of peripheral blood leukocytes (PBL) proliferation using MG antigens.
- Measurement of interferon and nitric oxide production by antigen-stimulated PBL.
Main Results:
- A consistent lymphoproliferative response was observed in chickens infected with MG strain PG31.
- Significant lymphoproliferation was detected as early as 1 week post-infection.
- Antigen-specific interferon and nitric oxide production correlated with lymphoproliferation.
Conclusions:
- Cell-mediated immune responses, including lymphoproliferation and cytokine production, play a role in chickens following Mycoplasma gallisepticum infection.
- These findings suggest potential mechanisms for developing immunity against MG.
