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The reactivity of spleen cells from malarious rats to non-specific mitogens
Abstract:
The reaction of spleen cells from rats infected with Plasmodium berghei to non-specific mitogens has been measured. The cells have been stimulated in vitro by phytohaemagglutinin, concanavalin-A and by bacterial lypopolysaccharide. In addition the release of lymphocyte activating factor (LAF) by splenic macrophages has been assayed using a heterologous thymocyte culture. The reactivity of spleen lymphocytes from malarious rats is severly affected. The cells do not react either to the T cell-specific mitogens or to the B-cell stimulant. The reactivity of macrophages, as measured by the release of LAF, was not altered by the disease.
Insights
Malaria infection severely impairs spleen lymphocyte response to common immune stimulants. However, macrophage function, measured by lymphocyte activating factor release, remains unaffected in infected rats.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Parasitology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Malaria, caused by Plasmodium parasites, is a significant global health concern.
- Immune responses, particularly lymphocyte function, are often dysregulated during parasitic infections.
- Understanding the impact of Plasmodium berghei infection on host immunity is crucial for developing effective treatments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the in vitro reactivity of spleen cells from Plasmodium berghei-infected rats to non-specific mitogens.
- To assess the production of lymphocyte activating factor (LAF) by splenic macrophages from infected rats.
Main Methods:
- Spleen cells from infected rats were stimulated with phytohaemagglutinin, concanavalin-A, and bacterial lipopolysaccharide.
- Lymphocyte activating factor (LAF) release by splenic macrophages was quantified using a heterologous thymocyte culture.
Main Results:
- Spleen lymphocytes from malarious rats showed significantly reduced reactivity to both T-cell and B-cell mitogens.
- Macrophage-derived LAF production was not altered by Plasmodium berghei infection.
Conclusions:
- Plasmodium berghei infection profoundly suppresses the responsiveness of rat spleen lymphocytes.
- Splenic macrophages maintain their ability to produce lymphocyte activating factor despite the presence of malaria.
- These findings highlight a specific immunodeficiency in lymphocytes during malaria, while macrophages appear resilient.