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Published on: April 3, 2014
Characterization of the immune response to Mycoplasma bovis lung infection
Tony J Vanden Bush1, Ricardo F Rosenbusch
1Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Preventive Medicine, Veterinary Medical Research Institute, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Building #5, Ames, IA 50011, USA.
Insights
Mycoplasma bovis lung infection in cattle activates immune memory cells and innate gammadelta-T cells. The study indicates a Th2-skewed immune response, with higher IgG1 than IgG2 production.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Immunology
- Bovine Respiratory Diseases
- Mycoplasma bovis Pathogenesis
Background:
- Mycoplasma bovis is a significant pathogen causing respiratory disease in cattle.
- Understanding the host immune response is crucial for developing effective control strategies.
- Characterizing the cellular and humoral immunity is key to elucidating host-pathogen interactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the immune response in cattle experimentally infected with Mycoplasma bovis.
- To investigate the activation of T-cell subsets (CD4+, CD8+, gammadelta-T cells) and cytokine profiles.
- To analyze the humoral immune response, including antigen-specific IgG1 and IgG2 production.
Main Methods:
- Experimental lung infection model in cattle using Mycoplasma bovis.
- In vitro proliferation assays ([3H]-thymidine blastogenesis) to assess cellular response.
- Flow cytometry to determine T-cell subset activation (CD25 expression).
- Cytokine analysis (IFN-gamma, IL-4) to evaluate Th1/Th2 balance.
- Serological analysis to quantify antigen-specific IgG1 and IgG2 isotypes.
Main Results:
- Mycoplasma bovis antigen induced activation of CD4+ and CD8+ T-cells, suggesting a memory response.
- Gammadelta-T cells were activated, indicative of an innate immune response.
- Both IFN-gamma and IL-4 producing cells were observed in recall responses.
- Increased production of antigen-specific IgG1 was detected, with minimal IgG2 production.
Conclusions:
- Experimental Mycoplasma bovis lung infection in cattle elicits both adaptive (memory) and innate immune responses.
- The immune response is characterized by a Th2-skewed profile, evidenced by predominant IgG1 production.
- Further research into Th2-mediated immunity could inform vaccine development against Mycoplasma bovis.
Abstract:
To better understand the interaction between Mycoplasma bovis and its bovine host, we have characterized the immune response generated during an experimental lung infection with M. bovis. Proliferation ([3H]-thymidine blastogenesis) and Th1/Th2 cytokine production were used to monitor peripheral cellular immune responses. Flow cytometry analysis was used to determine T-cell subset activity by CD25 expression. Humoral immune response was monitored by the identification of antigen-specific IgG1 and IgG2 isotypes over time. Herein, we show that M. bovis antigen stimulates activation of CD4+ and CD8+ cells in vitro in a manner consistent with memory, and that gammadelta-T cells are activated by antigen in a manner consistent with innate immunity. In addition, the percentage of cells producing IFN-gamma during recall response is equal to that of IL-4 producing cells. Serological analysis shows M. bovis stimulates increased production of antigen-specific IgG1 while very little IgG2 is produced. We therefore submit that experimental lung infection of cattle with M. bovis results in a Th2-skewed immune response.
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