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Impaired phagocytosis by the mononuclear phagocytic system in sapphire mink affected with Aleutian disease
D L Lodmell1, R K Bergman, M E Bloom
1National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Rocky Mountain Laboratories, Hamilton, Montana 59840.
Abstract:
The phagocytic function of the mononuclear phagocytic system (MPS) in normal sapphire mink and in sapphire mink affected with experimental Aleutian disease was compared. Clearance from blood of carbon particles or 125I-labeled microaggregated human serum albumin, and subsequent measurement of radioactivity in phagocytic organs indicated profound MPS blockade in mink affected with advanced Aleutian disease. In contrast, MPS activity in mink in the early stage of the disease was comparable to that of normal mink. It is suggested that the MPS blockade may be responsible for some pathologic changes in Aleutian disease.
Insights
Aleutian disease in mink causes significant mononuclear phagocytic system (MPS) blockade in advanced stages. Early disease stages show normal MPS function, suggesting blockade contributes to pathology.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Veterinary Pathology
- Virology
Background:
- Aleutian disease is a viral illness affecting mink.
- The mononuclear phagocytic system (MPS) is crucial for immune response and pathogen clearance.
- Understanding MPS function is vital for Aleutian disease research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the phagocytic function of the MPS in normal mink versus mink with experimental Aleutian disease.
- To investigate the role of MPS blockade in the pathogenesis of Aleutian disease.
Main Methods:
- Assessing blood clearance rates of carbon particles and 125I-labeled microaggregated human serum albumin.
- Measuring radioactivity in phagocytic organs (liver, spleen, bone marrow) to quantify particle uptake.
- Comparing MPS activity between healthy mink, early-stage Aleutian disease mink, and advanced-stage Aleutian disease mink.
Main Results:
- Mink with advanced Aleutian disease exhibited profound blockade of the mononuclear phagocytic system.
- Mink in the early stages of Aleutian disease displayed MPS activity comparable to normal mink.
- The degree of MPS blockade correlated with the advancement of Aleutian disease.
Conclusions:
- A significant blockade of the mononuclear phagocytic system occurs in advanced Aleutian disease.
- This MPS blockade may be a key factor contributing to the pathological changes observed in Aleutian disease.
- Early-stage Aleutian disease does not present with significant MPS dysfunction.