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Published on: May 24, 2011
Multiple infections with Nematospiroides dubius in mice selected for liability to a single infection
Abstract:
The faecal egg counts and worm burdens of mice selected over 7 generations as refractory (R), random (Rd) or liable (L) to primary infection with Nematospiroides dubius were significantly different, but the antibody titres (generation 8 mice) after 21 days infection were similar, demonstrating that selection had separated populations of mice which differed in their innate immunity. Variations in adaptive immunity were also shown between the three colonies in terms of protection after challenge infections, self-cure reactions, humoral antibody titres and ability of immune serum from R, Rd and L donors to passively protect recipient Quackenbush (Q) strain mice. R mice were more refractory to primary infection and more proficient in acquiring protective levels of adaptive immunity than L colony mice. Correlation of the faecal parasite egg count after primary with that after secondary infection supported the conclusion that the genetic control of liability to primary infection and of the adaptive immune response following challenge infections were at least partially linked.
Insights
Mice selected for resistance or susceptibility to Nematospiroides dubius showed differences in innate and adaptive immunity. Genetic factors influencing primary infection and adaptive immunity appear linked, impacting parasite control.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Parasitology
- Genetics
Background:
- Nematospiroides dubius is a common gastrointestinal nematode parasite in mice.
- Individual host responses to parasitic infections can vary significantly.
- Understanding the genetic basis of immunity is crucial for developing effective control strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the genetic control of innate and adaptive immune responses to Nematospiroides dubius infection in mice.
- To determine if genetic factors influencing primary infection susceptibility are linked to those controlling adaptive immunity.
Main Methods:
- Selective breeding of mice over seven generations for refractory (R), random (Rd), or liable (L) responses to primary infection.
- Assessment of faecal egg counts, worm burdens, and antibody titres.
- Evaluation of adaptive immunity through challenge infections, self-cure reactions, and passive protection assays.
Main Results:
- Selected mouse lines (R, Rd, L) exhibited significant differences in faecal egg counts and worm burdens.
- Despite similar antibody titres after primary infection, R mice showed enhanced protection and adaptive immunity compared to L mice.
- Genetic control of primary infection liability and adaptive immune response following challenge infections were found to be at least partially linked.
Conclusions:
- Selective breeding effectively separated mouse populations with distinct innate immune responses to Nematospiroides dubius.
- Genetic factors influencing susceptibility to primary infection and the development of adaptive immunity are partially linked.
- This study provides insights into the genetic architecture of host-parasite interactions and immune responses.
