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The pathogenesis of heartwater
J L Du Plessis1, L Malan, Z E Kowalski
1Veterinary Research Institute, Onderstepoort.
The Onderstepoort Journal of Veterinary Research
|September 1, 1987
Summary
Heartwater pathogenesis may involve hypersensitive reactions triggered by pharmacologically active substances. Antiviral treatments targeting histamine and serotonin were unsuccessful in mitigating these effects in infected mice.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Immunology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Heartwater, caused by Cowdria ruminantium, poses a significant threat to livestock.
- Existing hypotheses on heartwater pathogenesis are reviewed.
- Vaso-active substances released by mast cells are implicated in disease effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of hypersensitive reactions in heartwater pathogenesis.
- To evaluate the efficacy of mast cell-derived substance antagonists in treating heartwater.
- To explore the involvement of complement and arachidonic acid metabolism.
Main Methods:
- Infection of mice with Cowdria ruminantium.
- Treatment with histamine and serotonin antagonists.
- Treatment with mast cell stabilizers.
- Review of existing pathogenesis hypotheses.
Main Results:
- Treatments with histamine and serotonin antagonists were unsuccessful.
- Mast cell stabilizers did not counteract the effects of vaso-active substances.
- Preliminary findings suggest a hypersensitive reaction may be involved.
Conclusions:
- A hypersensitive reaction, possibly involving pharmacologically active substances, may underlie heartwater pathogenesis.
- Complement and arachidonic acid metabolites might contribute to vaso-active substance release.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the precise mechanisms.