IFNγ Production Profile in Turkeys of Different Immunological Status after TRT Vaccination

Despite vaccination against avian metapneumoviruses (aMPV), cases of turkey rhinotracheitis (TRT) caused by aMPV field strains are frequently reported. Differences have been shown in the level of immune system stimulation after aMPV vaccination between turkeys that do and do not possess specific anti-aMPV maternally derived antibodies (MDA). The article describes the influence of MDA on the production of IFNγ in the spleen of aMPV-vaccinated turkeys.

MDA+ or MDA- turkeys were vaccinated against TRT after hatching or on the 14^th day of life. Spleen samples were collected 3, 7, and 14 days post vaccination for mononuclear cell isolation. Real-time PCR, flow cytometry, and the enzyme-linked immunospot assay were used to evaluate the levels of IFNγ gene expression, production, and secretion by cells within the spleen samples.

Increased IFNγ gene expression was noticed after vaccination only in birds that did not possess MDA or possessed MDA at relatively low level (MDA+ birds vaccinated at 14 DOL). In all birds, an increased percentage of T lymphocytes producing IFNγ was recorded. The proportion of anti-aMPV IFNγ-secreting cells was increased only in MDA- birds.

Besides having a protective role, MDA are known to interfere with vaccination efficacy. The analysis of our results confirms that MDA can decrease the level of immune system stimulation after aMPV vaccination of turkeys.