Abstract
The rapid epidemic of highly pathogenic A/H5N1 avian influenza virus by transmission from poultry to humans triggered global unrest in the pandemic of novel influenza. If a human trophic strain of avian influenza viruses replicates in livestock including pigs and chickens, it may have high infectivity and pathogenicity to humans. The most effective method of reducing the outbreaks of influenza would be prophylaxis with an effective vaccine as well as anti-viral drugs including Oseltamivir and Zanamivir hydrate. In this study, chicken antiserum against A/H5N1 virus was produced: the antisera from immunized adult chicken had a strong binding activity to A/H5N1 viral antigens by ELISA. Furthermore, the antiserum strongly inhibited hemaggregation of erythrocytes and cytopathic effects in MDCK cells, indicating a strong neutralization activity against A/H5N1 infections. Interestingly, the mortality rate of chicks inoculated with A/H5N1 virus was dramatically decreased with the antiserum injection. These results suggest that antiserum may be a potentially effective protective and therapeutic modality for A/H5N1 infection.
Highlights
Avian influenza is most often spread by contact between infected and healthy birds, it can be spread indirectly through contaminated equipment [1] [2] [3]
These results suggest that antiserum may be a potentially effective protective and therapeutic modality for A/H5N1 infection
After antibody titration in the antiserum was confirmed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), hemagglutination (HA) test and neutralization assays in culture cells, the antiserum was injected to infant chicks prior to high pathogenic avian influenza virus A/H5N1 infection, and the survival rate and histopathological findings of infected chickens were verified
Summary
Avian influenza is most often spread by contact between infected and healthy birds, it can be spread indirectly through contaminated equipment [1] [2] [3]. Pathogenic strains of avian influenza viruses transmit imme-. Cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza virus A/H5N1 infections in human have increased, mainly in Southeast Asia [4] [5]. Vaccination is considered extremely effective for prevention of infectious diseases including influenza virus infections [6]. Vaccination during a pandemic is thought to be inappropriate for suppressing infection because considerable time is needed to acquire immunity against antigens [7] [8]. Passive immunotherapy involves administering antisera or antibodies prepared in advance to patients and has an immediate effect on preventing and treating infections. Acquired immunotherapy is primarily achieved through vaccination. Each of these therapies has its advantages and disadvantages, but passive immunotherapy is superior when immediate efficacy is sought
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
