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Topical ocular immunization of rabbits
Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science
|November 1, 1981
Summary
New Zealand white rabbits developed antibodies against ovalbumin after topical eye exposure. Antibody levels persisted for at least six months, indicating a robust immune response in ocular tissues.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Immunology
- Allergy Research
Background:
- Ocular immune responses are crucial for eye health.
- Understanding local antibody production in the eye is important for managing allergic eye diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the development and persistence of an immune response following topical ovalbumin immunization in rabbits.
- To identify the tissues involved in antibody production and the presence of Fc receptor cells.
Main Methods:
- New Zealand white rabbits were immunized with ovalbumin (100 mg/ml) applied to the conjunctival sac.
- Hemagglutinating antibody levels were measured over time.
- Plaque-forming cells and Fc receptor cells were analyzed in various tissues.
Main Results:
- Detectable hemagglutinating antibody was observed by day 7 and in all rabbits by day 14.
- Serum antibody persisted for at least 6 months post-immunization.
- Plaque-forming cells were present in lymph nodes, spleens, conjunctiva, and limbal tissue, but Fc receptor cell numbers did not correlate with plaque-forming cells.
Conclusions:
- Topical ovalbumin immunization induces a sustained systemic and local antibody response in rabbits.
- The conjunctiva and associated lymphoid tissues are sites of antibody production.
- Fc receptor-bearing cells are present in ocular tissues but their role in this specific immune response requires further investigation.