Related Experiment Videos
Anti-intermediate filament antibody in mice infected with Plasmodium berghei
Abstract:
Fifteen mice (CBA) were infected with lethal Plasmodium berghei and the development of anti-intermediate filament antibody (anti-IF) studied. Sera from all the infected animals reacted with the cytoplasmic network of intermediate filaments (IF) in the human epidermal laryngeal carcinoma (HEp2) cell line, as demonstrated by indirect immunofluorescence. Sera from 5 control animals injected with 10(4) unparasitized red cells showed no anti-IF reactivity. Anti-IF of IgM class was first detectable at day 11 in infected animals. Later, IgG as well and IgM anti-IF was found. A steady increase in anti-IF titre was observed during infection and a relationship between anti-IF titre and parasitaemia rate was noted.
Insights
Infection with Plasmodium berghei in mice triggers the development of anti-intermediate filament antibodies (anti-IF). These antibodies, initially IgM then IgG, correlate with parasite levels during malaria.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Parasitology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Malaria, caused by Plasmodium parasites, is a significant global health concern.
- The host immune response to Plasmodium infection is complex and not fully understood.
- Intermediate filaments (IF) are crucial intracellular structural components.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the development of anti-intermediate filament antibodies (anti-IF) during Plasmodium berghei infection in mice.
- To determine the class and titre of anti-IF antibodies.
- To explore the relationship between anti-IF antibody response and parasitaemia.
Main Methods:
- CBA mice were infected with Plasmodium berghei.
- Sera were tested for anti-IF reactivity using indirect immunofluorescence on HEp2 cells.
- Anti-IF antibody classes (IgM, IgG) and titres were monitored over time.
- Parasitaemia rates were assessed.
Main Results:
- All infected mice developed anti-IF antibodies that reacted with IF in HEp2 cells.
- Control mice showed no anti-IF reactivity.
- Anti-IF antibodies of the IgM class were detectable by day 11, followed by IgG.
- A progressive increase in anti-IF titre was observed, correlating with parasitaemia.
Conclusions:
- Plasmodium berghei infection induces a specific anti-intermediate filament antibody response in mice.
- The anti-IF antibody response is dynamic, involving both IgM and IgG, and is linked to parasite load.
- This finding suggests a potential role for IF in the host-parasite interaction during malaria.