Effect on the splenocyte function of weaned piglets induced by continuous lipopolysaccharide injections

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Immunology
• Animal Physiology

Background:

• Spleen immune cells combat pathogen-induced stress in piglets.
• Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is a key component of bacterial cell walls, often used to study immune responses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of multiple low-dose lipopolysaccharide (LPS) injections on splenocyte function in weaned piglets.
• To assess the effects of LPS on splenocyte proliferation, cell cycle, apoptosis, and nitric oxide production.

Main Methods:

• Weaned piglets were administered daily intraperitoneal injections of LPS or saline for 13 days.
• Splenocytes were isolated on specific days to evaluate proliferation (Cell-Counting-Kit 8), cell cycle and apoptosis (flow cytometry), and nitric oxide levels.

Main Results:

• LPS administration significantly enhanced splenocyte proliferation and nitric oxide release compared to controls.
• LPS treatment reduced G0/G1 phase cells, promoting cell cycle progression to S and G2/M phases.
• Apoptosis was suppressed in the LPS-exposed group, indicating increased cell survival.

Conclusions:

• Multiple low doses of LPS activate splenocytes in piglets.
• LPS treatment appears to restore and potentially enhance spleen immune function.
• These findings suggest a role for controlled LPS exposure in modulating immune responses in livestock.