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Inhibition of lymphocyte-mediated antibacterial activity by human seminal plasma
C De Simone1, G Caretto, P P Grassi
1Clinica Malattie Infettive, University of Rome Medical School, Italy.
Abstract:
Seminal plasma displays a suppressive function on many immunological responses. In light of recent findings on the antibacterial activity mediated by different lymphocyte subsets, we have assessed the effect of male inhibitory material (MIM) in this system. Results provide evidence that MIM pretreatment of peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) leads to a significant inhibition of antibacterial activity against Salmonella typhi and S. minnesota R345 (Rb). Both CD4+ and CD8+ cell-mediated activities are reduced by this treatment, while another defense mechanism (bacterial binding to PBL) is unaffected. Taken together, these results indicate a role for MIM in the depression of immune response and suggest that lymphocytes mediating antibacterial activity and bacterial cytoadherence are different entities.
Insights
Male inhibitory material (MIM) in seminal plasma suppresses immune responses. MIM pretreatment inhibits antibacterial activity in peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) against Salmonella, affecting CD4+ and CD8+ cells.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Seminal plasma is known to suppress immunological responses.
- Recent studies highlight lymphocyte subsets mediating antibacterial activity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of male inhibitory material (MIM) on the antibacterial activity of lymphocytes.
- To determine if MIM influences CD4+ and CD8+ cell-mediated antibacterial functions.
Main Methods:
- Peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) were pretreated with MIM.
- Antibacterial activity against Salmonella typhi and S. minnesota R345 (Rb) was assessed.
- Bacterial binding to PBL was also evaluated.
Main Results:
- MIM pretreatment significantly inhibited antibacterial activity of PBL against both Salmonella strains.
- Both CD4+ and CD8+ cell-mediated antibacterial activities were reduced.
- Bacterial binding to PBL remained unaffected by MIM treatment.
Conclusions:
- Male inhibitory material (MIM) plays a role in suppressing immune responses.
- Lymphocytes mediating antibacterial activity and bacterial cytoadherence appear to be distinct entities.