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Ectopic pituitary transplants restore immunocompetence in Ames dwarf mice
A I Esquifino1, M A Villanúa, A Szary
1Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale.
Acta Endocrinologica
|July 1, 1991
Summary
Prolactin and growth hormone from pituitary transplants enhanced immune function in Ames dwarf mice, increasing thymus and spleen lymphocytes and natural killer cell activity. These hormones may directly or indirectly boost immune responses.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Endocrinology
- Mouse Models
Background:
- Ames dwarf mice exhibit a natural deficiency in pituitary hormones, including prolactin and growth hormone.
- Hormonal deficiencies are known to impact immune system development and function.
- Understanding the role of prolactin in immunity is crucial for immune health research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of increased prolactin and growth hormone levels on immune function in Ames dwarf mice.
- To determine if pituitary transplants can restore immune parameters in dwarf mice.
- To explore potential mechanisms of hormone-mediated immune enhancement.
Main Methods:
- Adult Ames dwarf mice received ectopic pituitary transplants from normal mice.
- Plasma prolactin levels, body weight, thymus and spleen weights, and lymphocyte counts were measured.
- Natural killer (NK) cell activity and white blood cell counts were assessed.
- Comparisons were made between pituitary-grafted dwarf mice, sham-operated dwarf mice, and normal mice.
Main Results:
- Pituitary transplants significantly increased plasma prolactin and body weight in dwarf mice, though not to normal levels.
- Thymus and spleen weights increased in grafted dwarfs, with thymic lymphocyte numbers becoming comparable to normal mice.
- Spleen lymphocyte natural killer activity was significantly enhanced in pituitary-grafted dwarf mice, more so in males.
- White blood cell counts increased in male dwarf mice post-transplant, reaching normal levels, but not in females.
Conclusions:
- Hormones secreted by ectopic pituitary transplants, likely prolactin and growth hormone, can enhance immune function in Ames dwarf mice.
- The study suggests prolactin and/or growth hormone can improve immune cell numbers and activity, including natural killer cell function.
- These hormonal effects on immunity may involve direct or indirect actions on immune cells, highlighting a link between endocrine and immune systems.