IgG Levels Research Articles

Levels and functionality of Pacific Islanders' hybrid humoral immune response to BNT162b2 vaccination and delta/omicron infection: A cohort study in New Caledonia.

Pacific Islanders are underrepresented in vaccine efficacy trials. Few studies describe their immune response to COVID-19 vaccination. Yet, this characterization is crucial to re-enforce vaccination strategies adapted to Pacific Islanders singularities. We evaluated the humoral immune response of 585 adults, self-declaring as Melanesians, Europeans, Polynesians, or belonging to other communities, to the Pfizer BNT162b2 vaccine. Anti-spike and anti-nucleoprotein IgG levels, and their capacity to neutralize SARS-CoV-2 variants and to mediate antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) were assessed across communities at 1 and 3 months post-second dose or 1 and 6 months post-third dose. All sera tested contained anti-spike antibodies and 61.3% contained anti-nucleoprotein antibodies, evidencing mostly a hybrid immunity resulting from vaccination and SARS-CoV-2 infection. At 1-month post-immunization, the 4 ethnic communities exhibited no significant differences in their anti-spike IgG levels (p value = 0.17, in an univariate linear regression model), in their capacity to mediate omicron neutralization (p value = 0.59 and 0.60, in an univariate logistic regression model at 1-month after the second and third dose, respectively) and in their capacity to mediate ADCC (p value = 0.069 in a multivariate linear regression model), regardless of the infection status. Anti-spike IgG levels and functionalities of the hybrid humoral immune response remained equivalent across the 4 ethnic communities during follow-up and at 6 months post-third dose. Our study evidenced Pacific Islander's robust humoral immune response to Pfizer BNT162b2 vaccine, which is pivotal to re-enforce vaccination deployment in a population at risk for severe COVID-19. This trial has been register in ClinicalTrials.gov (ID: NCT05135585).

BIOCHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF RAT SALIVA UNDER CONDITIONS OF DYSBACTERIOSIS

Dysbiosis is a condition characterized by the disruption of the normal ratio of microorganisms in the body, which can lead to various physiological disorders. This study investigates the biochemical changes in the saliva of rats under dysbiosis induced by antibiotics. A comparative analysis of the control and experimental groups revealed significant alterations in the levels of albumin, immunoglobulin IgA, electrolytes, and organic acids. The results indicate that dysbiosis leads to an increase in the levels of albumin and electrolytes, as well as a decrease in immunoglobulin IgA, suggesting potential impairments in immune response and metabolism. The findings underscore the importance of maintaining normal microbiota for health and may serve as a foundation for further research in the prevention and treatment of dysbiosis.

Interim safety and immunogenicity analysis of the EuCorVac-19 COVID-19 vaccine in a Phase 3 randomized, observer-blind, immunobridging trial in the Philippines.

EuCorVac-19 (ECV-19) is a recombinant receptor binding domain (RBD) COVID-19 vaccine that displays the RBD (derived from the SARS-CoV-2 Wuhan strain) on immunogenic liposomes. This study compares the safety and immunogenicity of ECV-19 to the COVISHIELDTM (CS) adenoviral-vectored vaccine. Interim analysis is presented of a randomized, observer-blind, immunobridging Phase 3 trial in the Philippines in 2600 subjects, with treatment and biospecimen collection between October 2022 and January 2023. Healthy male and female adults who received investigational vaccines were 18 years and older, and randomly assigned to ECV-19 (n = 2004) or CS (n = 596) groups. Immunization followed a two-injection, intramuscular regimen with 4 weeks between prime and boost vaccination. Safety endpoints were assessed in all participants and immunogenicity analysis was carried out in a subset (n = 585 in ECV-19 and n = 290 in CS groups). The primary immunological endpoints were superiority of neutralizing antibody response, as well as noninferiority in seroresponse rate (defined as a 4-fold increase in RBD antibody titers from baseline). After prime vaccination, ECV-19 had a lower incidence of local solicited adverse events (AEs) (12.0% vs. 15.8%, p < 0.01), and solicited systemic AEs (13.1 vs. 17.4%, p < 0.01) relative to CS. After the second injection, both ECV-19 and CS had lower overall solicited AEs (7.8% vs. 7.6%). For immunological assessment, 98% of participants had prior COVID-19 exposure (based on the presence of anti-nucleocapsid antibodies) at the time of the initial immunization, without differing baseline antibody levels or microneutralization (MN) titers against the Wuhan strain in the two groups. After prime vaccination, ECV-19 induced higher anti-RBD IgG relative to CS (1,464 vs. 355 BAU/mL, p < 0.001) and higher neutralizing antibody response (1,303 vs. 494 MN titer, p < 0.001). After boost vaccination, ECV-19 and CS maintained those levels of anti-RBD IgG (1367 vs. 344 BAU/mL, p < 0.001) and neutralizing antibodies (1128 vs. 469 MN titer, p < 0.001). ECV-19 also elicited antibodies that better neutralized the Omicron variant, compared to CS (763 vs. 373 MN titer, p < 0.001). Women displayed higher responses to both vaccines than men. The ECV-19 group had a greater seroresponse rate compared to CS (83% vs. 30%, p < 0.001). In summary, both ECV-19 and CS had favorable safety profiles, with ECV-19 showing diminished local and systemic solicited AE after prime immunization. ECV-19 had significantly greater immunogenicity in terms of anti-RBD IgG, neutralizing antibodies, and seroresponse rate. These data establish a relatively favorable safety and immunogenicity profile for ECV-19. The trial is registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05572879).

Immune-enhancing effect of fermented soybean food, Cheonggukjang on cyclophosphamide-treated immunosuppressed rat

Cheonggukjang (CGJ) is a traditional food, made by the fermentation of beans, and it has different recipes for different regions in Korea. However, it has anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and anti-obesity effects, and is known to affect changes in the intestinal microbiota. In this study, we investigated the immune-enhancing effects of four type CGJs (one commercial and three transitional CGJs). In the cyclophosphamide (CP)-treated immunosuppressed rat, oral administration of CGJs for 4 weeks was used to investigate weight of body and immune organ, change of microbiota, blood and serum parameters, inflammation pathways (MAPKs and NFκB) and histology of spleen. It showed an immunity-enhancing effect through increase Bacteroidetes in gut, the recovery of complete blood count, levels of cytokines and IgG, activation of inflammatory pathways, and histology of spleen. In conclusion, these results show that the intake of a commercial brand CGJ, and traditional CGJs can maintain or promote the body's immunity.

High-resolution kinetics and cellular determinants of SARS-CoV-2 antibody response over two years after COVID-19 vaccination

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) studies usually rely on cross-sectional data of large cohorts but limited repeated samples, overlooking significant inter-individual antibody kinetic differences. By combining Luminex, activation-induced marker (AIM) and IFN-γ/IL-2 Fluorospot assays, we characterized the IgM, IgA, and IgG antibody kinetics using 610 samples from 31 healthy adults over two years after COVID-19 vaccination, and the T-cell responses six months post-booster. Antibody trajectories varied among isotypes: IgG decayed slowly, IgA exhibited an initial sharp decline, which gradually slowed down and stabilized above the seropositivity threshold. Contrarily, IgM rapidly dropped to undetectable levels after primary vaccination. Importantly, three vaccine doses induced higher and more durable anti-spike IgG and IgA levels compared to two doses, whereas infection led to the highest antibody peak and slowest antibody decay rate compared to vaccination. Comparing with ancestral virus, antibody levels recognizing Omicron subvariants had a faster antibody decay. Finally, polyfunctional T cells were positively associated with subsequent IgA responses. These results revealed distinctive antibody patterns by isotype and highlight the benefits of booster doses in enhancing and sustaining antibody responses.

Gynostemma pentaphyllum saponins shield mice from peanut allergy by modulation of gut microbiota: A novel approach for peanut allergy management

BackgroundFood allergies, particularly peanut (PN) allergies, are a growing concern, with fatal anaphylaxis incidents often reported. While palforzia is the sole FDA-approved drug for managing PN allergies, it is not universally effective. PurposeThis study aimed to investigate the potential of Gynostemma pentaphyllum saponins (GpS) as a novel therapeutic agent for PN allergy through modulation of gut microbiota, addressing the limitations of current treatments. MethodsTo elucidate the role of GpS on peanut allergy, we first built a PN-sensitized C57BL/6J model mice. Through comprehensive sequencing analysis, we identified Parabacteroides distasonis as a key bacterium triggering PN sensitization. Employing the same mouse model, GpS was evaluated for its effects on anaphylactic symptoms, serum immunoglobulin levels, and allergy-related biomarkers. 16S rRNA sequencing and transcriptomic analysis were applied to investigate the impact of GpS on the host's gut epithelium and microbiome. ResultsGpS treatment effectively reduced anaphylactic symptoms in PN-sensitized mice, as shown by decreased IgG1, total IgE, and PN-specific IgE levels. It also modulated the immune response by suppressing proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IFN-γ, IL-21) and chemokines (CCL5, CCL12, CCL17, CCL22), while enhancing anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-4, IL-10, IL-12, IL-13). Fecal microbial transplant from GpS-treated Model mice to PN-sensitized mice displayed anti-peanut allergy effects. Additionally, the administration of GpS-enhanced bacteria (Clostridium aldenese or Lactobacillus murinus), alleviated anaphylactic symptoms and reduced serum allergy markers in PN-sensitized mice. ConclusionTo conclude, we revealed the intestinal environment, signaling molecules, mucosal cytokines, and commensal microbial profiles in the peanut-sensitized mouse model. We further presented evidence for the protective effect of GpS against PN allergen sensitization by downregulating a series of food-allergy-associated biomarkers and cytokines via the modulation of gut bacteria. More importantly, supported by both in vitro and in vivo experiments, we demonstrated that the protective effect of GpS against PN-allergy is through the enhancement of two commensal bacteria, Clostridium aldenese, and Lactobacillus murinus.

IgG4 glycosylation contributes to the pathogenesis of IgG4 Hashimoto's thyroiditis via the complement pathway.

To explore whether IgG4 is involved in the pathogenesis of IgG4 HT. Serum TgAb IgG4 and TPOAb IgG4 were measured in IgG4 HT and non-IgG4 HT. C1q, mannose-binding lectin (MBL), Bb, C3d, C4d and membrane attack complex (MAC) in thyroid tissues from IgG4 HT, non-IgG4 HT and controls were examined by immunohistochemistry. We assessed IgG4 and MAC deposition in mouse thyroid by immunohistochemistry after injecting purified IgG4 into mice. The glycosylation patterns of TgAb IgG4 from IgG4 HT were identified by MALDI-TOF-MS. The ability of IgG4 binding to MBL before and after deglycosylation was assessed by ELISA. MBL and MAC fluorescence were detected in thyrocytes after the addition of IgG4 or deglycosylated IgG4. Serum TgAb IgG4 and TPOAb IgG4 levels were higher in IgG4 HT. MBL, Bb, C3d, C4d and MAC levels were higher in thyroid tissues of IgG4 HT than in non-IgG4 HT (all P < 0.001). IgG4 colocalized with MBL by immunofluorescence. In mice, follicular cell structure disruption was observed after the injection of IgG4 from IgG4 HT, as well as the colocalization of IgG4 with MAC. High levels of TgAb IgG4 glycosylation patterns, including monogalactose glycan (G1F), galactose-deficient glycan (G0F), and high-mannose glycan (M5), were detected in IgG4 HT. After deglycosylation, IgG4 reduced its ability binding to MBL, and there was low MBL and MAC activation in thyrocytes. High levels of IgG4 glycosylation patterns, including G1F, G0F and M5, may activate the complement lectin pathway, thereby participating in the pathogenesis of IgG4 HT.

Genetic variants associated with immune-mediated liver injury from checkpoint inhibitors.

The clinical features, liver histology, and genetic variants in 57 patients with moderate to severe immune-mediated liver injury from checkpoint inhibitors (ILICI) are presented. Between 2010 and 2022, 57 high-causality ILICI cases were enrolled in the Drug-Induced Liver Injury Network. HLA and selected candidate gene variants were tested for association with ILICI risk compared to the general population and other DILI controls. The 57 high-causality cases were attributed to pembrolizumab (16), ipilimumab (15), ipilimumab and nivolumab (13), and other immune checkpoint inhibitors (13) and occurred at a median of 72 days after the first infusion. Median age was 57.8 years, 66% male, and 89% were non-Hispanic Whites. At DILI onset, 53% had hepatocellular, 35% mixed, and 15% cholestatic, with younger patients more likely to have hepatocellular injury. The incidence of ANA, smooth muscle antibody, and elevated IgG levels was low (17%, 23%, and 0%), but corticosteroids were given to 86%. Microgranulomas and hepatic steatosis were seen in 54% and 46% of the 26 liver biopsies, respectively. The HLA alleles associated with autoimmune hepatitis were not over-represented, but 2 host immune response genes (EDIL3 and SAMA5A) and 3 other genes (GABRP, SMAD3, and SLCO1B1) were associated with ILICI (OR: 2.08-2.4, p<0.01). ILICI typically arises within 12 weeks of initiating immunotherapy and is self-limited in most cases. Genetic variants involved in host T-cell regulation and drug disposition were identified, implicating these pathways in the pathogenesis of ILICI. If validated, these findings could lead to improved diagnostic instruments and possible treatments for ILICI.

Glycan-specific IgM is critical for human immunity to Staphylococcus aureus

Staphylococcus aureus is a major human pathogen, yet the immune factors that protect against infection remain elusive. High titers of opsonic IgG antibodies, achieved in preclinical animal immunization studies, have consistently failed to provide protection in humans. Here, we investigate antibody responses to the conserved S.aureus surface glycan wall teichoic acid (WTA) and detect the presence of WTA-specific IgM and IgG antibodies in the plasma of healthy individuals. Functionally, WTA-specific IgM outperforms IgG in opsonophagocytic killing of S.aureus and protects against disseminated S.aureus bacteremia through passive immunization. In a clinical setting, patients with S.aureus bacteremia have significantly lower WTA-specific IgM but similar IgG levels compared to healthy controls. Importantly, low WTA-IgM levels correlate with disease mortality and impaired bacterial opsonization. Our findings may guide risk stratification of hospitalized patients and inform future design of antibody-based therapies and vaccines against serious S.aureus infection.

Genetic and environmental determinants of Immunoglobulin G in kid serum and adult colostrum of dairy goats

Immune competence is a key factor in the health and resilience of dairy ruminants. The aim of this study was to study immunoglobulin G concentration in serum shortly after birth and in colostrum of lactating animals as proxy of passive immune transfer and colostrum quality, respectively, and thus provide new health and resilience indicators for selection. Data from 424 female kids and 203 primiparous goats, reared on an INRAE experimental farm, were analyzed. IgG concentration was measured in kid serum and goat colostrum, respectively, using the radial immunodiffusion technique. Linear models were used to identify factors of variation in serum and colostrum IgG concentration, and health events were monitored for 5 weeks after birth to measure the impact of passive immune transfer on kids' health. We found a significant effect of serum IgG level on hindquarters cleanliness score (as a proxy of digestive troubles) and nasal and ocular discharge. As expected, the absorption of IgG in the days following birth is essential to ensure the passive transfer of immunity from the mother to the youngster, and provide immune protection. Genetic parameters were estimated for serum IgG concentration in kids and for colostrum characteristics in primiparous goats. Heritability of serum IgG in kids was not significantly different from zero. This low value, with large SE, may be due to the limited sample size and large environmental variability likely not accounted for. Especially, we could not adjust for the amount of IgG that was ingested by the kid, which can have a significant effect on serum IgG and possibly on heritability estimates. Heritability of colostrum traits were moderate, with estimates of 0.25 (±0.16), 0.35 (±0.16), and 0.25 (±0.16) for IgG concentration, IgG mass and colostrum volume, respectively. Genetic correlations with milk production showed high standard errors due to small numbers. However, estimates suggest a negative genetic association between production and IgG concentration in colostrum (rg = -0.44 ± 0.33), probably linked to a positive association with total colostrum volume. The significant heritabilities that were estimated for the first time demonstrate the existence of genetic control of colostrum quality in goats, and open up opportunities for selection in this species.

IgG4 Sclerosing Cholangitis: Entity Rarely Described in Children

IgG4-related sclerosing cholangitis (IgG4-SC) is known in the adult patients as a steroid-responsive biliary disease, frequently associated with autoimmune pancreatitis; The diagnosis of IgG4-SC may be difficult to differentiate from primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) or cholangiocarcinoma; This entity is been described in the absence of pancreatic implication. It is defined by high level of serum IgG4 in contrast to primary sclerosing cholangitis. It’is morphologically characterized by dense lymphoplasmacellular infiltration, particularly IgG4+ plasma cells and CD4+ T cells and extensive fibrosis in bile duct. In patients with IgG4-related sclerosing cholangitis, response to steroid therapy is high; in patients with PSC corticosteroid therapy is unsuccessful. An Early recognition of IgG4-SC can save patients from potential harmful and unnecessary surgical interventions. In the literature, cholangiocarcinoma in patients with IgG4- related sclerosing cholangitis was not described, whereas cholangiocarcinoma develops in up to 10-30% of patients with PSC. We present the case of a 3 years old child with features of sclerosing IgG4 cholangitis with asymptomatic elevation in liver enzymes, bile duct strictures on imaging, characteristic pathology findings, elevated serum IgG4, without signs of pancreatic involvement, and excellent response to corticosteroids. Pediatric gastroenterologists and hepatologists, as well as pediatric hepatopathologists, need to be aware of IgG4-SC as a disease entity.

CLINICAL AND IMMUNOLOGICAL FEATURES OF THE COURSE OF ACUTE OBSTRUCTIVE BRONCHITIS IN CHILDREN INFECTED WITH CHLAMYDIA

Aim. To improve the prognosis of the course of acute bronchitis based on the study of the etiological factor, clinical and anamnestic and laboratory and instrumental characteristics of acute bronchitis in children infected with chlamydia. Materials and methods. 73 children with acute obstructive bronchitis (AOB) were studied, including 32 children with AOB infected with chlamydia and 41 children with AOB not infected with intracellular infection (ICI). Results. For patients with AOB infected with chlamydia, in comparison with non-infected patients, the presence of febrile fever, intoxication syndrome, absence of expiratory shortness of breath and whistling wheezes, as well as a longer duration of treatment (more than 10 days) are characteristic. In patients infected with chlamydia compared to the norm, there is an increase in the number of T- and B-lymphocytes, which is manifested by an increase in the absolute number of CD3, CD8, CD25, CD4, CD22, the relative content of CD8, CD4, CD16 and CD22, as well as the level of serum IgA, IgG and IgM on against the background of suppression of innate immunity in the form of a decrease in the absorbing function of phagocytes, phagocytosis, phagocytic number and their digestive function; spontaneous and stimulated HST-test, the index of activity of stimulated neutrophils and the level of lysosomal-cationic proteins. That is, the child's immune system in conditions of persistence of ICI is in the mode of overload and imbalance. In patients with chlamydia infection, compared to patients without infection, in relation to T-lymphocytes, the following were found: higher values of the absolute number of CD3, CD4, CD8 and the relative number of CD3, as well as lower values of the absolute number of CD4, CD16, CD25 and the relative content of CD16; relative to B-lymphocytes: higher values of the relative amount of CD22, the level of serum IgA and a low level of IgG in the blood serum; in relation to indicators of innate immunity: a higher value of the phagocytic number, spontaneous HCT test and low values of phagocytosis, phagocytic index; relative to the non-specific humoral link of immunity – a higher level of CIC with 3.5% PEG. Conclusions. The revealed reliable differences in clinical and immunological indicators between groups of patients with AOB, depending on the presence of chlamydia infection, provide a basis for their use for diagnostic purposes as a supplement to traditional, protocol methods of diagnosis.

Early biological markers of post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection

To understand the roles of acute-phase viral dynamics and host immune responses in post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), we enrolled 136 participants within 5 days of their first positive SARS-CoV-2 real-time PCR test. Participants self-collected up to 21 nasal specimens within the first 28 days post-symptom onset; interviewer-administered questionnaires and blood samples were collected at enrollment, days 9, 14, 21, 28, and month 4 and 8 post-symptom onset. Defining PASC as the presence of any COVID-associated symptom at their 4-month visit, we compared viral markers (quantity and duration of nasal viral RNA load, infectious viral load, and plasma N-antigen level) and host immune markers (IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α, IFN-α, IFN-γ, MCP, IP-10, and Spike IgG) over the acute period. Compared to those who fully recovered, those reporting PASC demonstrated significantly higher maximum levels of SARS-CoV-2 RNA and N-antigen, burden of RNA and infectious viral shedding, and lower Spike-specific IgG levels within 9 days post-illness onset. No significant differences were identified among a panel of host immune markers. Our results suggest early viral dynamics and the associated host immune responses play a role in the pathogenesis of PASC, highlighting the importance of understanding early biological markers in the natural history of PASC.

Serum Anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG in Chronic Hepatitis B Virus Positive Patients

Background: Advanced age and comorbidities such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or cardiovascular diseases are proven risk factors in COVID-19. In COVID-19, pre-existing liver illnesses could be a substantial risk factor for hospitalization and severity. Infection with the hepatitis B virus (HBV) is one of the most significant and common health disorders. Objective: To estimate serum anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG in chronic Hepatitis B virus positive patients. Methodology: This cross-sectional analytical study was conducted in the Department of Biochemistry, Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka, during the period of January 2021 to December 2021. A total of 63 subjects were selected from Hepatology Department of DMCH and BSMMU as per selection criteria. Among them, 23 were chronic HBV positive patients (3 with COVID-19 and 20 without COVID-19) (group A) and the rest 40 were non HBV cases (20 with COVID-19 and 20 without COVID-19) (group B). Blood sample was collected for the measurement of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG. Biochemical analysis was performed by chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (CMIA) in the Department of Biochemistry, BSMMU, Dhaka. Result: In this study, the mean age of group A was 47.26 ± 11.24 years and group B was 44.53 ± 10.17 years. Males were predominant in both the groups. In group A, male was 65.2% &amp; female was 34.8% and in group B, male was 60% &amp; female was 40%. The median value of serum anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG level was 1110.70 in group A and 417.85 in group B (p&gt;0.05). The study showed frequency of positivity of serum anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG level in COVID-19 positive cases was 95.7% and in COVID-19 negative cases it was 90%. In this study, the median value of serum anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG level significantly higher in COVID-19 positive (1063.20) than in COVID-19 negative (119.00) in non-HBV cases. Conclusion: Serum anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG level was non-significantly higher in chronic HBV positive patients than non-HBV patients. J Com Med Col Teachers Asso Jan 2024; 28(1): 19-23

Comparison of Glucose and Immunoglobulin a Levels in Serum and Saliva of Patients with Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes

Introduction: The monitoring and management of blood glucose levels are of significant importance in individuals diagnosed with diabetes mellitus. Accordingly, the objective of this study was to examine the potential of a non-invasive approach for the diagnosis and management of diabetes, through the measurement of glucose concentration and salivary IgA, and a comparison with fasting glucose and serum IgA levels in individuals with type 1 and 2 diabetes, in relation to a control group of healthy individuals. Methods: This case-control study was conducted on 76 individuals with diabetes (31 with type 1 diabetes and 45 with type 2 diabetes) and 24 healthy individuals. After obtaining the code of ethics and informed consent, serum and salivary IgA levels as well as fasting glucose, were measured for each participant. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 16 statistical software and the Spearman, Kruskal-Wallis, and Mann-Whitney tests. Results: The results showed a significant difference among the three groups (type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, and healthy group) based on Fasting Blood Glucose, Hemoglobin A1c, Immunoglobulin A, salivary sugar, and salivary IgA (p&lt;0.001). Additionally, in the case group, parameters such as FBS, HbA1c, and salivary IgA showed a significant correlation with salivary sugar. Conversely, in the control group, only the salivary sugar level demonstrated a significant relationship with serum glucose level. The study's findings indicated that serum and salivary IgA levels were lower and higher, respectively, in the control subjects compared to the diabetic group (p&lt;0.001). Conclusion: In healthy individuals, salivary sugar can serve as an indicator to determine fasting blood sugar levels. In diabetic patients, salivary sugar can predict of FBS, HbA1c, and salivary IgA levels.

Oral administration of Lactobacillus delbrueckii UFV-H2b20 protects mice against Aspergillus fumigatus lung infection.

Probiotics provide therapeutic benefits not only in the gut but also other mucosal organs, including the lungs. To evaluate the effects of the probiotic strain L. delbrueckii UFV-H2b20 oral administration in an experimental murine model of A. fumigatus pulmonary infection. BALB/c mice were associated with L. delbrueckii and infected with Aspergillus fumigatus and compared with non-associated group. We investigated survival, respiratory mechanics, histopathology, colony forming units, cytokines in bronchoalveolar lavage, IgA in feces, efferocytosis, production of reactive oxygen species and the cell population in the mesenteric lymph nodes. L. delbrueckii induces tolerogenic dendritic cells, IL-10+macrophages and FoxP3+regulatory T cells in mesenteric lymph nodes and increased IgA levels in feces; after infection with A. fumigatus, increased survival and decreased fungal burden. There was decreased lung vascular permeability without changes in the leukocyte profile. There was enhanced neutrophilic response and increased macrophage efferocytosis. L. delbrueckii-treated mice displayed more of FoxP3+Treg cells, TGF-β and IL-10 levels in lungs, and concomitant decreased IL-1β, IL-17A, and CXCL1 production. Uur results indicate that L. delbrueckii UFV H2b20 ingestion improves immune responses, controlling pulmonary A. fumigatus infection. L. delbrueckii seems to play a role in pathogenesis control by promoting immune regulation.

Impact of minimally invasive surgery on immune function and stress response in gastric cancer patients.

Gastric cancer remains a leading cause of cancer-related mortality globally. Traditional open surgery for gastric cancer is often associated with significant morbidity and prolonged recovery. To evaluate the effectiveness of laparoscopic minimally invasive surgery as an alternative to traditional open surgery for gastric cancer, focusing on its potential to reduce trauma, accelerate recovery, and achieve comparable oncological outcomes. This study retrospectively analyzed 203 patients with gastric cancer who underwent surgery at the Shanghai Health Medical College Affiliated Chongming Hospital from January 2020 to December 2023. The patients were divided into two groups: Minimally invasive surgery group (n = 102), who underwent laparoscopic gastrectomy, and open surgery group (n = 101), who underwent traditional open gastrectomy. We compared surgical indicators (surgical incision size, intraoperative blood loss, surgical duration, and number of lymph nodes dissected), recovery parameters (time to first flatus, time to start eating, time to ambulation, and length of hospital stay), immune function (levels of IgA, IgG, and IgM), intestinal barrier function (levels of D-lactic acid and diamine oxidase), and stress response (levels of C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, and procalcitonin). The minimally invasive surgery group demonstrated significantly better outcomes in terms of surgical indicators, including smaller incisions, less blood loss, shorter surgery time, and more lymph nodes dissected (P < 0.05 for all). Recovery was also faster in the minimally invasive surgery group, with earlier return of bowel function, earlier initiation of diet, quicker mobilization, and shorter hospital stays (P < 0.05 for all). Furthermore, patients in the minimally invasive surgery group had better preserved immune function, superior intestinal barrier function, and a less pronounced stress response postoperatively (P < 0.05 for all). Laparoscopic minimally invasive surgery for gastric cancer not only provides superior surgical indicators and faster recovery but also offers advantages in preserving immune function, protecting intestinal barrier function, and mitigating the stress response compared to traditional open surgery. These findings support the broader adoption of laparoscopic techniques in the management of gastric cancer.

Clinical immunological characteristics of anti-interferon-γ autoantibodies syndrome: a 3 year prospective cohort study

ABSTRACT Anti-interferon-γ autoantibodies (AIGAs) syndrome is susceptible to disseminated opportunistic infections due to increased AIGAs, but its clinical immunological characteristics remain unrecognized. We conducted a prospective cohort study between January 2021 and December 2023, recruiting patients with opportunistic infections who were categorized into AIGAs-positive and AIGAs-negative groups. Clinical immunological data and outcomes were documented. A subset of AIGAs-positive patients received glucocorticoid treatment, and its effectiveness was evaluated. A total of 238 patients were enrolled, with 135 AIGAs-positive and 103 AIGAs-negative patients. AIGAs-positive patients showed higher rates of multiple pathogen dissemination, shorter progression-free survival (PFS), and increased exacerbation frequency. They also showed elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), globulin (GLB), immunoglobulin (Ig)G, IgE, and IgG4 levels. Among the 70 AIGAs-positive patients monitored for at least six months, three subtypes were identified: high AIGAs titer with immune damage, high AIGAs titer without immune damage, and low AIGAs titer without immune damage. Of the 55 patients followed for 1 year, decreasing AIGAs titer and immune indices (GLB, IgG, IgE, IgG4) were observed. Among the 31 patients with high AIGAs titer and immune damage treated with low-dose glucocorticoids at the stable phase, reductions were observed in immune indices and AIGAs titer in 67.74% of cases. In summary, AIGAs-positive patients exhibit infectious and immunological characteristics. Elevated AIGAs, IgG, IgG4, and IgE indicate abnormal immune damages. AIGAs titer generally decrease over time. Stable-phase AIGAs-positive patients can be categorized into three subtypes, with those having high AIGAs titer and increased immune indices potentially benefitting from glucocorticoid treatment.

Human Milk Oligosaccharides in Combination with Galacto- and Long-Chain Fructo-Oligosaccharides Enhance Vaccination Efficacy in a Murine Influenza Vaccination Model.

Early-life nutrition significantly impacts vaccination efficacy in infants, whose immune response to vaccines is weaker compared to adults. This study investigated vaccination efficacy in female C57Bl/6JOlaHsd mice (6 weeks old) fed diets with 0.7% galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS)/long-chain fructo-oligosaccharides (lcFOS) (9:1), 0.3% human milk oligosaccharides (HMOS), or a combination (GFH) for 14 days prior to and during vaccination. Delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) was measured by assessing ear swelling following an intradermal challenge. Influvac-specific IgG1 and IgG2a levels were assessed using ELISAs, while splenic T and B lymphocytes were analyzed for frequency and activation via flow cytometry. Additionally, cytokine production was evaluated using murine splenocytes co-cultured with influenza-loaded dendritic cells. Mice on the GFH diet showed a significantly enhanced DTH response (p < 0.05), increased serological IgG1 levels, and a significant rise in memory B lymphocytes (CD27+ B220+ CD19+). GFH-fed mice also exhibited more activated splenic Th1 cells (CD69+ CXCR3+ CD4+) and higher IFN-γ production after ex vivo restimulation (p < 0.05). These findings suggest that GOS/lcFOS and HMOS, particularly in combination, enhance vaccine responses by improving memory B cells, IgG production, and Th1 cell activation, supporting the potential use of these prebiotics in infant formula for better early-life immune development.

Maternal-Fetal Transfer of Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Antibodies in Amniotic Fluid: Insights from Maternal Vaccination and COVID-19 Infection.

Objectives: As the COVID-19 pandemic wanes, understanding maternal-fetal antibody transfer remains crucial for optimizing vaccination strategies. This study evaluates anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody levels in amniotic fluid following maternal BNT162b2 mRNA vaccination and/or COVID-19 infection during early pregnancy, focusing on the first and second trimesters. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted at a tertiary university-affiliated hospital, involving 149 pregnant women who underwent amniocentesis. Anti-SARS-CoV-2 spike IgG levels were measured in amniotic fluid samples. Participants were categorized based on vaccination and infection status: vaccine-only, infection-only, vaccine + infection, and no vaccine/infection. Correlations between antibody levels and the time since vaccination or infection were analyzed. Results: The vaccine + infection group had a higher proportion of positive antibody levels compared to the vaccine-only group (63.6% vs. 35.9%, p = 0.029). Median SARS-CoV-2 IgG levels were significantly higher in the vaccine + infection group (283.0 AU/mL) than in the vaccine-only group (64.1 AU/mL, p = 0.006). Women who received three vaccine doses had higher antibody levels and more positive antibody rates compared to those with one or two doses. A significant negative correlation was found between antibody levels and the interval since the last vaccine dose or infection. Conclusions: Our results indicate the presence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in the amniotic fluid, reflecting antibody transfer during early pregnancy. However, a noticeable decrease in immunity was observed, as indicated by declining amniotic fluid antibody levels over time. Further studies are needed to determine the optimal timing and number of boosters required to protect against new variants of SARS-CoV-2.