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Immunological stimuli change expression of genes and neutrophil function in fathead minnow Pimephales promelas

B Jovanović1, F W Goetz, G W Goetz

  • 12008 The College of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA.

Journal of Fish Biology
|April 6, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Fathead minnows exposed to bacterial (lipopolysaccharide) and viral (polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid) mimics showed altered gene expression and neutrophil function. These findings support using fathead minnows to study fish innate immunity against pathogens.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Aquatic toxicology
  • Fish biology

Background:

  • The innate immune system protects fish from pathogens.
  • Understanding immune responses in fish models is crucial for aquaculture and environmental health.
  • Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid [poly(I:C)] are common immune stimulants.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the immunological responses of fathead minnows (Pimephales promelas) to LPS and poly(I:C).
  • To analyze changes in gene expression and granulocyte function during simulated bacterial and viral challenges.
  • To evaluate the suitability of fathead minnows as a model organism for fish immunology research.

Main Methods:

  • Fathead minnows were treated with LPS and poly(I:C).
  • Expressed sequence tags (ESTs) were sequenced and annotated to identify immune-related genes.
  • Real-time PCR was used to quantify the expression of 20 selected immune genes.
  • Blood neutrophil counts and kidney granulocyte functions (NET release, respiratory burst, degranulation) were assessed.

Main Results:

  • LPS treatment downregulated genes including interferon regulatory factor 2 binding protein 1, Chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 12a, and TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL).
  • Poly(I:C) treatment significantly upregulated Mx proteins and chemokine CCL-C5a.
  • Poly(I:C) increased blood neutrophil counts and suppressed neutrophil extracellular trap release and respiratory burst in kidney granulocytes.

Conclusions:

  • Gene expression and neutrophil function changes in fathead minnows reflect innate immune responses to LPS and poly(I:C).
  • Fathead minnows demonstrate a robust immune response suitable for studying pathogen effects.
  • This species serves as a valuable alternative model for investigating fish innate immunity.

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