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Published on: June 8, 2012
Macrophage activation by Micropolyspora faeni does not suppress anamnestic pulmonary immunologic reactivity
1Cleveland VA Medical Center, Department of Medicine, Ohio.
Abstract:
Determinants of lung immunologic response to antigens are not known, but could include alveolar macrophage (AM) activation. We tested the ability of AM activation to modify the anamnestic response by administering bovine serum albumin (BSA) intratracheally, activating AM (by intratracheal Micropolyspora faeni), and then exposing rabbits again to intratracheal BSA. We compared the results from 4 groups of animals: intratracheal administration of either 50 mg M. faeni or normal saline and later administration of either intratracheal or intramuscular BSA. M. faeni administered intratracheally increased the number of AM. These AM were activated (increased phagocytosis of IgG-coated particles). We found no difference in the amount of antibody in either lavage fluid or serum or in antigen-induced pulmonary parenchymal and hilar node lymphocyte proliferation among these 4 groups.
Insights
Alveolar macrophage activation did not alter lung immune responses to bovine serum albumin (BSA) re-exposure in rabbits. This study investigated macrophage activation
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Cell Biology
Background:
- The determinants of lung immunologic responses to antigens are not fully understood.
- Alveolar macrophage (AM) activation is a potential factor influencing these responses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate whether AM activation modifies the anamnestic lung immunologic response to bovine serum albumin (BSA).
Main Methods:
- Rabbits received intratracheal administration of either Micropolyspora faeni (to activate AM) or saline.
- Animals were subsequently exposed to intratracheal or intramuscular BSA.
- Antibody levels, lavage fluid, serum, and lymphocyte proliferation were measured.
Main Results:
- Intratracheal M. faeni increased the number and phagocytic activity of AM.
- No significant differences were observed in antibody levels or lymphocyte proliferation among the four experimental groups.
Conclusions:
- AM activation, induced by M. faeni, did not alter the lung's secondary immune response to BSA.
- Further research is needed to identify the key determinants of lung immunologic responses.
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