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Monoclonal antibody immunotherapy in nude mice persistently infected with Cryptosporidium parvum
J M Bjorneby1, B D Hunsaker, M W Riggs
1Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, Washington State University, Pullman 99164-7040.
Abstract:
Three groups of congenitally athymic nude mice were persistently infected following oral administration of 2 x 10(7) Cryptosporidium parvum oocysts. Two groups were treated once daily for 10 days with either neutralizing monoclonal antibody (MAb) 17.41 or an isotype control MAb. The third group received no treatment. Intestinal-infection scores were significantly decreased in nude mice treated with MAb 17.41 compared with isotype control MAb-treated and nontreated control groups (P less than 0.005). Biliary and pancreatic cryptosporidial-infection scores were similar for the MAb 17.41-treated and isotype control MAb-treated groups (P greater than 0.05).
Insights
A neutralizing monoclonal antibody (MAb) 17.41 significantly reduced intestinal Cryptosporidium parvum infections in athymic nude mice. This targeted therapy showed promise for treating cryptosporidiosis, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Infectious Diseases
- Parasitology
Background:
- Congenital athymic nude mice are susceptible to persistent infections.
- Cryptosporidium parvum is an opportunistic pathogen causing significant morbidity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of a neutralizing monoclonal antibody (MAb) 17.41 in treating Cryptosporidium parvum infection in vivo.
- To assess the impact of MAb 17.41 on intestinal, biliary, and pancreatic parasite loads.
Main Methods:
- Congenitally athymic nude mice were orally infected with Cryptosporidium parvum oocysts.
- Mice received daily treatment with MAb 17.41, an isotype control MAb, or no treatment for 10 days.
- Intestinal, biliary, and pancreatic infection scores were quantified.
Main Results:
- MAb 17.41 treatment significantly decreased intestinal infection scores compared to control groups (P < 0.005).
- No significant differences in biliary or pancreatic infection scores were observed between MAb 17.41 and isotype control groups (P > 0.05).
Conclusions:
- Neutralizing MAb 17.41 demonstrates efficacy in reducing intestinal Cryptosporidium parvum burden in immunocompromised mice.
- Targeted antibody therapy may represent a viable strategy for managing cryptosporidiosis, particularly in the gut.