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Evaluation of a rough mutant of Brucella melitensis in pregnant goats
P H Elzer1, F M Enright, J R McQuiston
1Department of Veterinary Science, Louisiana State University Agricultural Center, Baton Rouge 70803, USA. Pelzer@unix1.sncc.lsu.edu
Abstract:
Brucella melitensis strain VTRM1, a rough derivative of B melitensis strain 16M, is able to colonise the lymph nodes of goats, does not induce abortion in pregnant goats when used at doses leading to abortions with virulent strain 16M, and does not induce anti-O chain antibodies. However, strain VTRM1 as a single dose vaccine induces only partial protection against both infection and abortion following challenge.
Insights
Brucella melitensis strain VTRM1 colonizes goat lymph nodes without causing abortion or anti-O chain antibodies. However, this rough derivative offers only partial protection against virulent B. melitensis challenge.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary immunology
- Bacterial pathogenesis
- Vaccine development
Background:
- Brucella melitensis is a significant cause of abortion in goats.
- Strain 16M is a virulent Brucella strain used for comparison.
- Strain VTRM1 is a rough derivative of B. melitensis strain 16M.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of Brucella melitensis strain VTRM1 as a potential vaccine candidate in goats.
- To assess the immunogenicity and protective capabilities of strain VTRM1 against virulent B. melitensis challenge.
Main Methods:
- Administration of a single dose of B. melitensis strain VTRM1 to goats.
- Assessment of lymph node colonization by strain VTRM1.
- Evaluation of abortion rates in pregnant goats post-challenge with virulent strain 16M.
- Measurement of anti-O chain antibodies.
Main Results:
- Strain VTRM1 successfully colonized the lymph nodes of goats.
- Strain VTRM1 did not induce abortion in pregnant goats at doses that caused abortion with strain 16M.
- No anti-O chain antibodies were induced by strain VTRM1.
- A single dose of strain VTRM1 provided only partial protection against infection and abortion following challenge.
Conclusions:
- Brucella melitensis strain VTRM1 exhibits reduced virulence and does not induce abortion or anti-O chain antibodies.
- Strain VTRM1 demonstrates potential as a vaccine candidate but requires further investigation for improved protective efficacy.
