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Early effects of lead on bone marrow cell responsiveness in mice challenged with Listeria monocytogenes
M Kowolenko1, L Tracy, D Lawrence
1Albany Medical College, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, New York 12208.
Abstract:
Listeria monocytogenes challenge of lead-treated mice results in increased mortality. Since macrophage development constitutes the initial phase of the immune response to L. monocytogenes, bone marrow and spleens from Pb-treated mice that were infected with L. monocytogenes were analyzed for their ability to form colonies when exposed to the macrophage growth factor CSF-1. Serum colony-stimulating activity also was evaluated. Data obtained indicate the Pb exposure results in decreased responsiveness of bone marrow and spleen cells to CSF-1 while colony-stimulating activity in serum rises. This lack of bone marrow-derived macrophage development may contribute to the increased mortality observed with L. monocytogenes challenged. Pb-treated mice.
Insights
Lead exposure increases mortality in mice infected with Listeria monocytogenes by impairing macrophage development. This study investigated the impact of lead on immune cell responsiveness to growth factors.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Toxicology
- Hematology
Background:
- * Listeria monocytogenes infection triggers an immune response involving macrophage development.
- * Lead (Pb) exposure is known to cause various health issues, including immune system impairment.
Purpose of the Study:
- * To investigate the effect of lead exposure on macrophage development in mice infected with L. monocytogenes.
- * To analyze the responsiveness of bone marrow and spleen cells to colony-stimulating factor-1 (CSF-1) in lead-treated mice.
Main Methods:
- * Mice were treated with lead and subsequently infected with L. monocytogenes.
- * Bone marrow and spleen cells were analyzed for colony formation in the presence of CSF-1.
- * Serum colony-stimulating activity was measured.
Main Results:
- * Lead exposure decreased the responsiveness of bone marrow and spleen cells to CSF-1.
- * Colony-stimulating activity in the serum of lead-treated mice increased.
- * Impaired macrophage development was observed in lead-exposed, infected mice.
Conclusions:
- * Lead exposure significantly hinders the development of bone marrow-derived macrophages.
- * This impairment of macrophage development may be a key factor contributing to increased mortality in lead-treated mice challenged with L. monocytogenes.