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A 21.6 kDa tegumental protein of Clonorchis sinensis induces a Th1/Th2 mixed immune response in mice
EunJoo Chung1, Yu Jung Kim1, Myoung-Ro Lee1
1Division of Vectors and Parasitic Diseases, Center for Laboratory Control of Infectious Diseases, Korea Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, Osong, 28159, Republic of Korea.
Introduction:
Clonorchis sinensis is a major parasite affecting the Korea population. Despite the high infection rate and pathogenicity, very few studies have been conducted to investigate the immune responses against the proteins of C. sinensis.
Methods:
In this study, in vitro immune response induced by a recombinant 21.6 kDa tegumental protein derived from C. sinensis (rCsTegu21.6) was confirmed in murine dendritic cells and T cells. For the in vivo analysis, each mouse was immunized three times. Total serum IgG and T cell cytokine production were determined by ELISA, while T cell proliferation was detected by a WST (Water-Soluble Tetrazolium salt)-1 assay.
Results:
In vitro tests indicated that rCsTegu21.6 treatment increased the expression of surface molecules, such as CD40 (77%), CD80 (52%) and CD86 (46%), on murine dendritic cells and the secretion of cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, IL-10, and IL-12p70). Moreover, co-culturing dendritic cells activated by rCsTegu21.6 with allogenic T cells induced T cell proliferation over time. rCsTegu21.6 also stimulated specific antibody production and cytokine secretion [IL-2, IL-4, and interferon (IFN)-γ)] from T cells following immunization in vivo. Notably, rCsTegu21.6 predominantly induced IgG1 production and secretion of the Th2 cytokine IL-4, regardless of the type of adjuvant used.
Conclusion:
These results serve as a foundation for the development of tegumental protein-based vaccines against C. sinensis.
Insights
This study investigated immune responses to a Clonorchis sinensis tegumental protein (rCsTegu21.6). The protein effectively stimulated dendritic cells, T cells, and antibody production, suggesting potential for vaccine development against this major parasite.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Parasitology
- Vaccine Development
Background:
- Clonorchis sinensis is a significant parasite in Korea with high pathogenicity.
- Limited research exists on host immune responses to C. sinensis proteins.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the in vitro and in vivo immune responses induced by a recombinant 21.6 kDa tegumental protein (rCsTegu21.6) from C. sinensis.
- To assess the potential of rCsTegu21.6 as a basis for vaccine development.
Main Methods:
- In vitro analysis of dendritic cell activation and cytokine secretion upon rCsTegu21.6 treatment.
- In vivo immunization of mice with rCsTegu21.6.
- Measurement of serum IgG, T cell proliferation (WST assay), and cytokine production (ELISA).
Main Results:
- rCsTegu21.6 enhanced dendritic cell surface molecule expression (CD40, CD80, CD86) and cytokine secretion (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, IL-10, IL-12p70).
- rCsTegu21.6 induced T cell proliferation and stimulated specific antibody (IgG1) and cytokine (IL-2, IL-4, IFN-γ) production in vivo.
- A predominant Th2 immune response (IL-4 secretion) was observed.
Conclusions:
- rCsTegu21.6 effectively modulates both innate and adaptive immune responses.
- Tegumental proteins like rCsTegu21.6 show promise for developing vaccines against Clonorchis sinensis infections.
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