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Resistance of 129/J mice to Schistosoma mansoni infection
Abstract:
Mice of the strain 129/J bred at this Institute (WEHI 129/J) were exposed once or repeatedly to cercariae of Schistosoma mansoni and worm burdens determined. In keeping with reports of S. japonicum infection in these mice, a high level of resistance was recorded. Radio-labelled extracted antigens of S. mansoni adult worms were reacted with sera from exposed 129/J mice and infected BALB/c mice. Immunoprecipitated antigens preferentially recognized by antibodies in 129/J mice include proteins of Mr 99,000 and 21,000. Whether responses to these antigens are a cause or a consequence of resistance remains to be established.
Insights
Strain 129/J mice exhibit high resistance to Schistosoma mansoni infection. Antibodies in these mice target specific adult worm antigens, including proteins of Mr 99,000 and 21,000, though the role of this response in resistance is unclear.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Parasitology
- Genetics
Background:
- The 129/J mouse strain, specifically WEHI 129/J, is utilized for studying parasitic infections.
- Previous research indicated susceptibility of certain mouse strains to Schistosoma japonicum.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the resistance of WEHI 129/J mice to Schistosoma mansoni infection.
- To identify specific antigens recognized by antibodies from infected 129/J mice.
Main Methods:
- WEHI 129/J mice were infected with Schistosoma mansoni cercariae.
- Worm burdens were determined after infection.
- Radio-labelled adult worm antigens were used in immunoprecipitation assays with sera from infected 129/J and BALB/c mice.
Main Results:
- WEHI 129/J mice demonstrated a high level of resistance to Schistosoma mansoni.
- Antibodies from infected 129/J mice preferentially immunoprecipitated S. mansoni adult worm antigens of Mr 99,000 and 21,000.
- BALB/c mice, used as a control, showed different antibody recognition patterns.
Conclusions:
- The 129/J mouse strain possesses significant resistance to Schistosoma mansoni.
- Specific adult worm antigens (Mr 99,000 and 21,000) are recognized by antibodies in resistant 129/J mice.
- Further investigation is required to determine if this antibody response causes or results from the observed resistance.