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Local immunity in rotaviral infections
Annales De Recherches Veterinaires. Annals of Veterinary Research
|January 1, 1983
Summary
This study investigated local intestinal immunity in calves, finding that antibodies appear in the jejunum and feces after infection. Reinfection did not lead to virus shedding, indicating a protective immune response.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Immunology
- Gastrointestinal Microbiology
- Animal Health
Background:
- Nonspecific defense mechanisms in the intestine are crucial for maintaining gut health.
- Specific, local intestinal immunity plays a vital role in protecting the gastrointestinal tract from pathogens.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate local and humoral antibody production in response to infection in calves.
- To determine the kinetics of antibody appearance and duration in the jejunum and feces.
- To assess the immune response upon reinfection.
Main Methods:
- Five caesarian-derived, colostrum-deprived calves were used.
- Jejunal fistulas were surgically prepared in each calf.
- Samples from fistulas and feces were collected for antigen and antibody analysis up to 120 days post-infection.
Main Results:
- Antibodies were detected in the jejunum between 3-12 days and in feces between 4-18 days post-infection.
- Antibodies persisted in feces for 25-58 days.
- Reinfection after 50-70 days typically elicited a secondary antibody response without subsequent virus shedding.
Conclusions:
- Calves develop local intestinal immunity following infection, characterized by antibody production in the jejunum and feces.
- The observed secondary response upon reinfection suggests the development of protective immunity, preventing viral excretion.