IgM Antibodies Research Articles

Concordance of maternal and cord blood SARS-COV-2 immunoglobulin seropositivity after COVID-19 infection or vaccination in pregnancy

Objective To assess maternal antibody response to Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection during pregnancy and subsequent transplacental antibody transfer in cord blood. Study Design This is a prospective cohort study of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) polymerase chain reaction (PCR) positive pregnant women and their newborns. SARS-CoV-2 PCR (+) women were enrolled, with SARS-CoV-2 PCR (−) as control. Maternal blood was obtained at enrollment and cord blood collected at delivery. Baseline maternal and infant characteristics and neonatal outcomes were collected. Samples were analyzed using coronavirus antigen microarray containing immunologically significant antigens from SARS-CoV-2 (including nucleocapsid protein [NP], spike protein [S], S1, S2, receptor-binding domain [RBD]) which can detect SARS-CoV-2 immunoglobulin G (IgG) and immunoglobulin M (IgM). Results Thirty-seven maternal-cord blood paired samples were analyzed for SARS-CoV-2 IgG or IgM antibodies; 15 out of 20 samples from SARS-CoV-2 PCR (+) and 14 out of 17 from SARS-CoV-2 PCR (−) mothers were IgG positive. 14 out of the 17 SARS-CoV-2 PCR (−) mothers received COVID-19 vaccine during pregnancy. Difference between IgG seropositivity of naturally infected versus vaccinated mothers were significant, 75% versus 100% ( p = 0.043). IgM antibodies were detected in 10 out of 20 SARS-CoV-2 PCR (+) women but none were detected in cord blood. Conclusions Excellent concordance of SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies exist between maternal and cord blood. Significantly higher SARS-COV-2 cord blood IgG seropositivity was found in vaccinated versus naturally infected mothers.

Revealing viral hepatitis epidemiology in the Democratic Republic of Congo: insights from yellow fever surveillance reanalysis

Abstract Background Yellow fever surveillance systems are designed to identify cases of acute febrile jaundice, a clinical syndrome used to monitor the emergence of yellow fever outbreaks. However, this syndrome has diverse etiologies, particularly viral hepatitis. This study investigates the seroepidemiology of viral hepatitis A (HAV), B (HBV), C (HCV), and E (HEV) among cases initially suspected to be yellow fever, aiming to elucidate the epidemiology of viral hepatitis in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and provide insights for improving public health interventions. Methods A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted using serum samples collected between 2017 and 2018 through national yellow fever surveillance in the DRC. Samples from individuals testing negative for yellow fever were tested for IgM antibodies against HAV, HBc, HCV, and HEV and HBs antigen using validated ELISA kits. Acute HBV infection was defined by both HBc IgM and HBs antigen positivity. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess the association of demographic, geographic, and environmental factors with each hepatitis type. Results Among 1239 participants (58.8% male; median age: 16 years), seroprevalence was 16.1, 11.2, 5.0, and 3.1% for HAV, HBV, HCV and HEV, respectively. HAV prevalence was highest in the youngest age group and rural residents. In contrast, the youngest group was most protected from HBV. HCV prevalence was highest in the oldest age groups. HEV exhibited higher prevalence during the dry season and in a humid subtropical climate. Several provinces were identified as hotspots of HAV, HCV and HEV. Conclusions Viral hepatitis is a major cause of acute febrile jaundice in the DRC with notable geographic and seasonal trends. National yellow fever surveillance is a valuable resource for understanding hepatitis epidemiology, though careful interpretation is necessary. Tailored interventions are required for mitigating the burden of viral hepatitis in each province.

Detection of hepatitis B virus surface antigen, IgM and IgG antibodies to hepatitis B virus core antigen in the clinical classification and epidemiological surveillance of HBV infection.

Hepatitis B virus surface antigen (HBsAg), IgM and IgG antibodies to hepatitis B virus core antigen (anti-HBcIgM and anti-HBcIgG) comprise serological markers of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection of great importance in the epidemiological surveillance of hepatitis B, since they have been routinely considered for classifying the acute and chronic clinical forms of HBV infection. This classification is established according to the expression and dynamics of these markers in the infected person's bloodstream, which serves as the basis for the differential diagnosis between the two clinical entities. However, in certain circumstances, both acute and chronic infection, the detection of these markers may not occur in the bloodstream, favoring the occurrence of atypical serological profiles of infection, and compromising the correct infection clinical classification. In addition, the complex and varied nature of hepatitis B serological profiles may compromise the health professional's ability to analyze the case and, thus, correctly classify the infection's clinical form. Since the expression of these markers in the bloodstream occurs dynamically, with consequent changes in the patient's serological profile as he progresses towards recovery or chronicity, the diagnosis of acute or chronic infection may also be compromised, if it is established based on the collection of a single sample and without knowing the patient's clinical history and their epidemiological antecedents. This manuscript addresses the sensitivity and specificity of HBsAg, anti-HBcIgM, and anti-HBcIgG serological markers detection in the clinical classification of HBV infection and in the epidemiological surveillance of hepatitis B. This review is covering the clinical and epidemiological interpretations of the markers in and of themselves, not in reference to any specific assays.

Isotype diversity of antibodies specific for component allergens in the context of allergic diseases: eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), asthma, and the alpha-gal syndrome (AGS)

From the earliest days of studying the reagins in allergic sera that give rise to the Prausnitz-Kuestner reaction, there was evidence that there were other types of antibodies (Ab) specific for allergens, particularly those induced by immunotherapy. By 1980, not only was IgE recognized and could be measured, but the presence of other isotypes including IgG and IgA in patients with IgE was well established. From that time onwards the development of monoclonal antibodies made it possible to distinguish and measure antibodies of other isotypes such as IgG4, IgG2, and IgG3. Over the past 40 years two things have dominated the field- firstly, the techniques for measuring isotype specific antibodies to allergens have improved steadily. Secondly, several different allergic diseases or phenomena have been identified in which isotype diversity of the antibodies has become a major issue. Prior to 1990 only occasional cases of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) had been identified, but since then they have become common. Most of the cases have positive skin tests and/or IgE Ab to cow's milk or wheat, but it became obvious that most cases of EoE are not primarily related to IgE. Today it is clear that IgG4 Ab to these allergens play a significant role in cases of EoE. In 2000 the first reports of children developing tolerance to cat allergen appeared. Today it is clear that this tolerance depends on high levels of IgG4 antibodies and there is increasing evidence that the IgG4 response is primarily against Fel d 1. The most recent novel allergic disease is the alpha-gal syndrome (AGS). This condition is based on IgE antibodies specific for the oligosaccharide galactose alpha,1-3-galactose, which are primarily induced by tick bites. However, in this case it was already well known that all immunocompetent primates have made IgG and IgM antibodies to this oligosaccharide. Furthermore, it is not clear whether the IgG isotypes, particularly IgG1 and IgG3, play a role in the inflammatory response to the oligosaccharide. Overall, it is clear that current and future investigation of allergic diseases requires careful assessment of allergen specific antibodies of diverse isotypes in addition to IgE.

Brief Report: Chronic murine schistosomiasis causes aberrant hemostasis

Schistosomiasis afflicts >250 million people worldwide, leading to an annual loss of >3 million disability adjusted life years. Schistosoma mansoni causes intestinal schistosomiasis with parasite eggs either transversing intestinal tissue or lodging within the liver and other organs, causing intestinal hemorrhage and liver pathology. Large (∼1cm) adult worms survive for years within blood vessels, but we lack a clear understanding of their impact on hemostasis. We used a chronic mouse model of schistosomiasis to determine the impact on platelet numbers, phenotype and function. Hemostatic function was assessed by platelet phenotyping (flow cytometry and proteomics), whole blood aggregometry and longitudinal coagulometry. Whilst platelets from schistosome-infected mice lack elevated surface P-selectin and activated αIIbβ3, unbiased proteomic analysis reveals infection-induced increases in MHC-I, IgM and IgG antibodies, and complement components. Whole blood from schistosome-infected mice spontaneously aggregates in the absence of exogenous agonists. Conversely, prothrombin and activated partial thromboplastin times are prolonged at the chronic stage of infection (10-12 weeks). In conclusion, our mouse model of S. mansoni infection shows wide-ranging changes in hemostatic function which may have clinically relevant implications for populations in endemic regions.

Antibody responses in omicron BF.7-infected patients vaccinated with inactivated SARS-CoV-2.

Our study aimed to investigate antibody responses in omicron BF.7-infected patients after being vaccinated with inactivated SARS-CoV-2. Blood serum samples were collected every 2-7d, 1 w before infection, during the acute infection period and recovery period, and every month after recovery to detect IgG, IgM, IgA, neutralizing antibodies, and neutralizing antibodies against different omicrons in the acute phase. The levels of IgG, IgA and neutralizing antibodies increased sharply at 6-7d after infection, and the levels of IgG and neutralizing antibodies peaked rapidly within 1-2 w, lasting for 3-4 w, and the antibody levels gradually decreased at 4-8 w after infection. The level of neutralizing antibodies against the wild-type strain SARS-CoV-2 was much greater than that against the variant strains during the acute infection period. After being infected with omicron BF.7, the IgG and neutralizing antibodies in inactivated SARS-CoV-2-vaccinated individuals increase sharply 6-7 days after infection, which is earlier than those in the initial WT SARS-CoV-2 infection, and the peak time within 1-2 w is shorter. The levels of IgG, neutralizing antibody, and IgA antibodies are high, and the levels of IgM antibodies are low; however, the neutralizing antibodies are mainly against the wild-type strain of SARS-CoV-2.

An attenuated live strain of HY9901 mutant Δgr provides protection against Vibrio alginolyticus in pearl gentian grouper (♀Epinephelus fuscoguttatus × ♂Epinephelus lanceolatu).

Vibrio alginolyticus is a serious aquaculture bacterial pathogen, which is widely distributed in the ocean and rivers, and cause vibriosis in aquaculture. Therefore, it is imperative to develop effective vaccine to prevent vibriosis. In this study, the efficacy of gr deletion strain (Δgr) of V. alginolyticus as an attenuated live vaccine was evaluated in peal gentian grouper by intraperitoneal injection immunization, followed by a wild strain injection challenge. Real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR was used for analyzing the expression dynamics of immune-related genes. ELISA was used to assess the serum antibody titer and non-specific enzyme activities were determined by kit. The results showed that the safe dose of Δgr was 1.0 × 106 CFU/mL for pearl gentian grouper, and the immune protection rate of Δgr was 73.08 %, providing significant protection against V. alginolyticus. The expression levels of all the immune-related genes MHC-Iα, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-16 and MyD88 were upregulated in liver, spleen, head kidney and thymus within 42 days post-vaccination. In addition, specific antibody IgM, activities of catalase, superoxide dismutase and lysozyme were also significantly increased compared with the control group. It is not only safe for groupers, but also can effectively stimulate both specific and non-specific immunity of fish. These results indicated that Δgr could be used as an effective attenuated live vaccine candidate to prevent pearl gentian grouper against V. alginolyticus in aquaculture.

Immunoglobulin M response in largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) following ranavirus infection

Immunoglobulin M (IgM) and IgM+ B cells are key components of the humoral immune system, providing defense against pathogen invasion. While the role of IgM in the systemic and mucosal immune responses of fish to parasites and bacteria has been partially investigated, its function in viral infections remains underexplored. This study successfully developed a largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) model for ranavirus immersion infection. Our findings revealed that viral infection caused significant pathological changes in the gill and head kidney tissues, along with a marked upregulation of adaptive immune gene expression. Interestingly, fish that survived an initial viral infection exhibited minimal mortality and low viral loads in the gill and head kidney tissues when exposed to a higher viral concentration. Notably, in these fish with secondary infections, there was a significant increase in IgM protein levels in both the blood and gill mucus, as well as a pronounced accumulation of IgM+ B cells in the gill and head kidney tissues. Additionally, the serum contained high levels of virus-specific IgM, which demonstrated the ability to neutralize the virus. These findings highlight the crucial role of IgM in the immune response to viral infections in largemouth bass and suggest its potential as a target for enhancing viral resistance in aquaculture.

Enhancing surveillance for dengue fever in Oyo State, Nigeria – a one health approach

BackgroundDengue fever (DF) poses a growing global threat, necessitating a comprehensive one-health approach to address its complex interplay between human, animal, and environmental factors. In Oyo State, Nigeria, the true burden of DF remains unknown due to underdiagnosis and misdiagnosis as malaria, exacerbated by poor health-seeking behavior, weak surveillance systems, and inadequate health infrastructure. Adopting a one-health approach is crucial to understanding the dynamics of DF transmission.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted from January 2022 to April 2023 in 10 high-risk LGAs of Oyo State. It involved screening DENV in 289 febrile human blood samples and 1,015 Aedes species mosquitoes. Viral RNA from human and mosquito specimens was extracted and analyzed using RT-qPCR. A one-step lateral flow immunoassay cassette test kit detected DENV-specific IgM and IgG in humans. DENV IgM-positive participants were screened for Lassa Virus (LASV) to rule out coinfection due to an outbreak of Lassa fever. Mosquitoes recovered were morphologically identified and classified using appropriate taxonomical keys. Meteorological data was obtained from the Nigeria Meteorological Agency. Data was abridged as proportions and correlation analysis was performed.ResultThe overall seroprevalence of DENV was 128/289 (44.2%) with 19/289 (6.6%) and 109/289 (37.7%) being IgM and IgG positive respectively. DENV was detected all year round with more cases in the rainy season. LASV and DENV coinfection were detected in a participant. DENV RT-qPCR analysis in febrile patients and mosquitoes was negative. There was a high abundance of Aedes aegypti (79.5%) in all the locations surveyed with Aedes albopictus (12.3%) detected in Ido LGA and Ibadan South-East LGA and Aedes simpsoni (9.1%) in Iwajowa LGA. DF shows moderate to strong positive correlations with Aedes mosquito population, humidity, and rainfall (r = 0.419–0.61, p < 0.05), and a negative correlation with temperature (r =—0.465, p < 0.05).ConclusionThe study reveals a significant burden of DENV in Oyo State. The presence of both IgM and IgG antibodies suggests past exposure and possible recent circulation of the virus. The co-detection of LASV and DENV in one participant highlights the likely potential for co-infection. Although DENV was not detected in febrile patients and mosquitoes through RT-qPCR, the high abundance of Aedes species underscores the risk of transmission. These findings emphasize the need for enhanced surveillance systems, strengthened laboratory services, targeted vector control, and increased awareness.

Generation of IgM+ B cell-deficient Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) by CRISPR/Cas9-mediated IgM knockout

Infectious diseases pose significant challenges to Norwegian Atlantic salmon aquaculture. Vaccines are critical for disease prevention; however, a deeper understanding of the immune system is essential to improve vaccine efficacy. Immunoglobulin M (IgM) is the main antibody involved in the systemic immune response of teleosts, including Atlantic salmon. In this study, we used CRISPR/Cas9 technology to knock out the two IgM genes in Atlantic salmon. High-throughput sequencing revealed an average mutagenesis efficiency of 97% across both loci, with a predominance of frameshift mutations (78%). Gene expression analyses demonstrated significantly reduced membrane-bound IgM mRNA levels in head kidney and spleen tissues. Flow cytometry revealed a 78% reduction in IgM+ B cells in peripheral blood, and Western blot analyses showed decreased IgM protein levels in serum. Notably, an upregulation of IgT mRNA was observed, suggesting a potential compensatory mechanism. This work presents the first application of CRISPR/Cas9 to disrupt an immune-related gene in the F0 generation of Atlantic salmon, and lays the foundation for generating a model completely lacking IgM+ B cells which can be used to study the role of B cells and antibodies. This study has implications for advancing immune research in teleosts and for developing strategies to improve salmon health and welfare in aquaculture.

Case report: Therapeutic use of bortezomib in a patient with Schnitzler syndrome

Schnitzler syndrome (SchS) is a rare acquired systemic autoinflammatory disorder, characterized by chronic urticarial rash and immunoglobulin M (IgM) monoclonal gammopathy. Anti-interleukin-1 (IL-1) therapies have been shown to be more effective in managing the clinical symptoms of SchS compared to anti-IL-6 therapies. In this case report, we present a male patient with urticarial rash, fever, and arthralgia. Laboratory tests identified the presence of IgMκ monoclonal protein, and the absence of IL-1β in serum. Whole exome sequencing (WES) did not reveal any pathological variants associated with monogenic autoinflammatory diseases or the MYD88 L265P mutation. He met the diagnostic criteria for SchS and was treated with bortezomib, leading to a significant improvement in clinical symptoms and a decline in IgMκ monoclonal protein levels. The patient tolerated the treatment well. This case suggests that bortezomib may be considered as a potential treatment option for SchS, in addition to anti-IL-1 therapies and bruton tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitors.

ANTI-TOXOPLASMA GONDII ANTIBODIES IN EGYPTIAN PATIENTS WITH SCHIZOPHRENIA

For nearly 100 years, infectious microbes dominated discourse on the causes of schizophrenia, Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular parasite and is found in 2 forms in humans. Toxoplasma gondii has been associated with several congenital CNS anomalies and more subtle delayed neurologic sequelae, The evidence of infection as a cause of schizophrenia was supported by the brain histopathological changes found in patients with schizophrenia, the risk of schizophrenia increased among individuals who were exposed in utero to elevated maternal T. gondii immunoglobin G (IgG) antibody, based on assay of archived maternal sera, was more than twice that of comparison subject, The main aim of this study was to compare the prevalence of T. gondii infection between individuals with schizophrenia and healthy controls in Egyptian choret samples. 100 patients with schizophrenia, and 100 healthy donors where screened for Toxoplasma gondii IgG and IgM antibodies in serum by ELISA. A significant increase in the incidence of Toxoplasma gondii IgG positive antibody in patient group compared to control group (P 0.004)

Seroprevalence of dengue, Zika, and chikungunya in São Sebastião, Brazil (2020–2021): a population-based survey

BackgroundUrban arboviruses pose a significant global burden, particularly in tropical regions like Brazil. São Sebastião, a lower-middle-class urban area just 26 km from the Brazilian capital, is an endemic area for dengue. However, asymptomatic cases may obscure the actual extent of the disease. In this study, we measured the seroprevalence of dengue, Zika virus, and chikungunya, and compared these findings with surveillance data.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted involving 1,535 households. ELISA serological tests were performed to detect IgM and IgG antibodies against dengue, Zika virus, and chikungunya. History of previous exposure to arboviruses, data on age, gender, and education level were collected through a questionnaire. Participants who tested positive for IgM and/or IgG were classified as soropositive. Statistical analyses included tests for normality, associations, mean comparisons, and correlations. Positive serological results were compared with cases captured by local epidemiological surveillance.ResultsThe study included 1,405 individuals, divided into two groups related to pre-pandemic and pandemic COVID-19 phases. Among participants, 0.7% to 28.8% self-reported history of dengue, Zika, or chikungunya. However, the estimated overall seroprevalence was 64.3% (95% CI: 61.8–66.7) for dengue virus, 51.4% (95% CI: 48.8–53.9) for Zika virus, and 5.4% (95% CI: 4.4–6.7) for chikungunya virus. Multiple arboviruses were noted at 4.0% (95% CI: 3.1–5.1). Advancing age and lower education were associated with higher exposure to arboviruses (p < 0.05). The estimated number of urban arboviral infections was 84 times higher than reported cases.ConclusionsThe large gap between seroprevalence estimates and cases captured by epidemiological surveillance suggests a silent circulation of arboviruses, highlighting the need for comprehensive serological surveys in endemic regions. Addressing these discrepancies is crucial for effective resource allocation and implementation of public health interventions.

Visual and somatosensory evoked potentials abnormalities among Behçet’s disease patients and their relation to disease activity, severity and antiphospholipid antibodies: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundBehçet’s disease (BD) is a common disease with high morbidity and mortality. Ocular, neurological, and vascular affection in BD are a major cause of such morbidity and mortality. Evoked potential (EP) studies including visual evoked potentials (VEP) and somatosensory evoked potentials (SSEP) in addition to antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) are valuable tools for detection of ocular, neurological and vascular affection and may be used for assessment of activity and severity in BD. We aimed to use EP studies and aPL as objective tools in BD assessment.ResultsAbnormal VEP was found in 76% of BD patients and has a significant association with ocular involvement (P = 0.003), Moreover, Abnormal VEP was significantly associated with ocular activity (P = 0.002). Abnormal SSEP in both median and tibial nerves was found in 62% of patients, prolonged central conduction time of median and tibial nerves was found in 46% and 22% of patients respectively and was significantly associated with neurological involvement in BD (P < 0.05). Abnormal VEP and SSEP studies were significantly associated with BD disease severity (P < 0.05) but not activity. Vascular involvement was significantly associated with elevated lupus anticoagulant and anti-cardiolipin IgM antibodies (P < 0.05), elevated lupus anticoagulant levels were associated with optic nerve involvement and abnormal VEP.ConclusionAbnormal VEP and SSEP studies can be considered as indicators for BD severity and hence poorer prognosis. VEP study is a valuable tool in BD and may indicate ocular involvement or ocular activity. Prolonged Central conduction time of upper limb and lower limb evaluated by N13- N20 IPL and N22-P39 IPL respectively may be used to detect nervous system involvement in BD patients. Optic nerve involvement may be suspected in BD patients with elevated lupus anticoagulant, elevated LA and aCL IgM can be used as indicators for vascular involvement in BD.

Assessment of the Association Between Clinical and Laboratory Parameters and Past Coronavirus Infection in Patients with Coronary Artery Restenosis

Understanding the risk factors for coronary in-stent restenosis is particularly important in patients with coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Such patients require careful monitoring, priority treatment, and prevention.The aim of our study was to assess the association between clinical and laboratory parameters and previous coronavirus infection in patients with coronary artery restenosis.Materials and methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted on a continuous sample of patients with coronary artery disease who underwent repeated myocardial revascularization in the period from 2020 to 2023 (931 patients). 420 patients in the main group had coronary artery stent restenosis, of which 162 (38.5 %) had suffered from coronavirus infection (CVI). The control group included 511 patients with repeated myocardial revascularization without stent restenosis, of whom 107 (20.9 %) had undergone CVI. Laboratory tests included troponin I, D-dimer, creatine kinase (CK), creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB), serum creatinine and glucose, C-reactive protein (CRP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and fibrinogen, IgG and IgM antibodies to coronavirus and RNA detection by polymerase chain reaction. Statistical calculations were performed using SPSS version 20.0 software.Results: It was established that there were statistically significantly higher levels of IgG antibodies to coronavirus and C-reactive protein in the main study group compared to the control group. When dividing the study groups into subgroups of individuals with and without previous CVI, statistically significant differences in troponin levels were found (p&lt;0.001): between the level in the group with restenosis and CVI compared to groups without restenosis with CVI, with restenosis without CVI, and in groups with revascularization without CVI and with restenosis without CVI. The levels of D-dimer, CPK, CPK-MB, CRP, and APTT had statistically significant differences in the groups with previous CVI compared to the groups without CVI. The results of multiple regression analysis indicated a statistically significant positive relationship in the study groups between the development of myocardial infarction and such indicators as CRP, blood glucose, low-density lipoproteins (LDL), previous CVI, as well as a negative relationship with left ventricular ejection fraction and high-density lipoproteins (HDL). The role of these predictors in the development of myocardial infarction was confirmed using ROC analysis.Conclusion: The results of our study indicated a relationship between previous coronavirus infection and an increased risk of coronary artery restenosis in patients with previous myocardial revascularization.

Epidemiological and Clinical Study of Crimean–Congo Hemorrhagic Fever in Cattle and Humans in Maysan Province, Southern Iraq

Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a serious tick-borne zoonotic disease with significant public health concerns, particularly in regions like Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. In Iraq, sporadic outbreaks have been reported since 1979. This study examines the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of CCHF in humans and livestock in Maysan Province, Southern Iraq, focusing on the connection between human and cattle infections. The study utilized a retrospective approach, analyzing 34 human cases and 45 cattle infections through hospital records, patient interviews, and serological tests (ELISA). Results showed a higher prevalence among females (61.76%), with housewives being the most affected group (55.88%). Fever, body pain, and hemorrhagic symptoms were common. Cases peaked between May and August, mainly in Amarah District. In cattle, 84.44% tested positive for IgG antibodies, indicating past exposure, and 15.56% for IgM antibodies, suggesting recent infections. Tick density was notably higher in communal grazing areas, correlating with human infection hotspots. The study concludes that CCHF remains a significant threat in Maysan Province due to ecological and human-livestock interactions. Preventive strategies, including surveillance, public education, and tick control, are critical for reducing disease transmission. Further research is recommended to explore environmental and livestock roles in disease dynamics.

Evaluation of immunoglobulin M and immunoglobulin G titers of ABO blood group system in blood donors at a blood center of a tertiary care hospital

Abstract BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: ABO antibodies have implications in platelet transfusions, solid organ, and bone marrow transplants. The study aimed at measuring the immunoglobulin G (IgG) and immunoglobulin M (IgM) ABO antibody titers in A, B, and O blood group blood donors and correlating the titers with age, gender, and blood group of donors. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: A prospective observational study was performed over 3 years at a tertiary care blood center. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Equal number of A, B, and O group blood donor samples chosen by random sampling were evaluated for titers by doubling dilution using tube method. IgM titers were determined at room temperature. IgG titers were tested at 37°C with anti-IgG antiglobulin reagent after inactivating IgM antibodies by dithiothreitol. The titers were correlated with age, gender, and blood group. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Mann–Whitney U-test, Kruskal–Wallis test, and Bonferroni correction were employed for various correlations using IBM SPSS v26 (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) software. A two-tailed P &lt; 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: A total of 870 samples (290 of each of A, B, and O blood groups) were tested for IgG and IgM antibody titers. IgG anti-A and anti-B titers were significantly higher in blood group O as compared to blood groups B and A. Anti-B IgM titers in group A were significantly higher than anti-A IgM titer in B. The antibody titer showed decreasing trend with age. There was no correlation with gender. CONCLUSIONS: The study will help hospitals and blood centers in formulating policies regarding ABO antibody titer estimation in platelet donors and renal transplant recipients in the context of out-of ABO group platelet transfusions and ABO-incompatible renal transplants, respectively.

The Potential Role of Toxoplasma gondii Infection in Multiple Sclerosis Development: A Seroepidemiological Study in North Khorasan Province, Iran.

This study aimed to investigate the seroepidemiological status of Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) infection in Multiple Sclerosis (MS) patients compared to controls. The present study included 98 MS patients and 100 controls. Demographic and clinical information collected through interviews, electronic medical records, and clinical examinations. Serum samples analyzed for anti-T. gondii IgG and IgM antibodies using ELISA. A significant difference observed in the seroprevalence of anti-T. gondii IgG between 49 MS patients (50%) and 33 controls (33%). MS patients with seropositive anti-T. gondii IgG had significantly different age, Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) scores, MS phenotypes, age of diagnosis, and age of onset compared to seronegative patients. Serum levels of anti-T. gondii IgG significantly elevated in the case group compared to the control group (277.8 ± 28.61 vs. 137.1 ± 9.52, P < 0.0001). In controls, all subjects were seronegative for anti-T. gondii IgM; three MS cases were positive, showing no significant difference in anti-T. gondii IgM seroprevalence between groups. The study suggests a potential association between T. gondii infection and MS, indicating that anti-T. gondii IgG positivity may correlate with MS phenotypes and influence disease progression. This suggests that chronic toxoplasmosis may be risk factor for MS.

Theoretical and practical considerations for validating antigen-specific B cell ImmunoSpot assays.

Owing to their ability to reliably detect even very rare antigen-specific B cells in cellular isolates such as peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC), and doing so robustly in a high throughput-compatible manner, B cell ELISPOT/FluoroSpot (collectively "B cell ImmunoSpot") tests have become increasingly attractive for immune monitoring in regulated settings. Presently, there are no guidelines for the qualification and validation of B cell ImmunoSpot assay results. Here, we propose such guidelines, building on the experience acquired from T cell ImmunoSpot testing in an environment adhering to the requirements of regulatory bodies yet taking the unique features of B cell assays into account. A streamlined protocol is proposed that permits the performance of all tests needed for the formal validation of an antigen-specific B cell ImmunoSpot assay in only three experiments, utilizing 2.2 × 107 PBMC per donor. Subsequently, utilizing only 1-2 × 106 PBMC per sample (obtainable from 1 to 2 mL of blood), a validated multiplexed assay enables accurate quantification of the frequency of antigen-specific memory B cell-derived blasts secreting IgM, IgG, IgA or IgE antibodies. Collectively, such multiplexed B cell ImmunoSpot assays offer immense value for B cell immune monitoring programs due to their ease of implementation, scalability, applicability to essentially any antigenic system, economy of PBMC utilization, and last but not least, the high content information gained.

Chinese yam polysaccharide induces the differentiation and natural antibody secretion of IgM+ B cells to prevent Aeromonas hydrophila infection in grass carp.

Chinese yam polysaccharide (CYP) is an effective immunostimulant, however, its efficacy in grass carp, an important commercial fish species in Asia, remains untested. Here, our study evaluated the immunostimulatory effects of CYP on IgM+ B cells in vitro and on humoral immunity and immune defense against Aeromonas hydrophila infection in vivo. In vitro stimulation experiments showed that CYP could induce the secretion of IgM antibodies, because it could stimulate the proliferation and differentiation of head kidney IgM+ B cells. Moreover, CYP could also enhance the phagocytic activity of IgM+ B cells. When grass carp were intragastrically administrated (i.g.) with CYP, the serum IgM level increased, as did the capacity of serum IgM to bind to peptidoglycan (PGN) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS), indicating that CYP induced natural IgM production in grass carp. Correspondingly, the serum bactericidal ability to A. hydrophila enhanced. Immune protection experiments showed that CYP could protect grass carp from A. hydrophila infection in vivo, because the mortality rate and gut Aeromonas load of grass carp significantly decreased after CYP administration. Taken together, our study reveals immunostimulatory effects of CYP in grass carp, laying important foundation for the usage of CYP to control diseases in grass carp aquaculture.