IgG Concentrations Research Articles

Immune Response and Histopathological Changes of Serratia rubidaea in Mice

Serratia rubidaea is a zoonotic opportunistic pathogen that causes respiratory tract infection, septicemia, and encephalitis in humans and animals. The current study aimed to estimate the immunological response (IgG, IL-6by ELISA test and Delayed Type Hypersensitivity (DTH)-Skin Test and histopathological lesions (intestine, liver, kidney, and spleen) by using twenty-four Swiss mice divided into three equal groups (8/each).The first group(G1) as control negative given PBS (pH 7.2) 0.1ml S/C, the second group(G2) immunized by killed whole cell antigen Serratia rubidaea (KWCA SR) (1.2 ×109CFU ml) S/C and the third group(G3) immunized by sonicated whole cell antigen Serratia rubidaea (SWCASR) (1000 μg/ml) S/C. A booster dose was given after 14 days of immunization to the G2 and G3 the same as the immunizing dose. At 21 and 28 days of immunization, IgG and IL-6 concentrations were increased significantly (P≤0.05) in the groups G2 and G3 compared to the negative control group. DTH-Skin Tests of G2 and G3 groups showed increased induration diameter after 24 and 48 hours. and a decrease at 72 hours. Histopathological lesions showed mild to moderate changes in immunized groups compared with the positive control group in all organs. In conclusion, it was found that KWCASR and SWCASR induce humoral (IgG) and cellular immune responses(IL-6,DTH), which reduce the pathological lesions in the immunized mice.

Effects of Vitamin and Mineral Supplementation During Gestation in Beef Heifers on Immunoglobulin Concentrations in Colostrum and Immune Responses in Naturally and Artificially Reared Calves

Two experiments assessed the effects of providing a vitamin and mineral supplement to gestating beef heifers on concentrations of immunoglobulins (Ig) in colostrum and calf serum 24 h after feeding maternal colostrum (Exp. 1) or a colostrum-replacement product (Exp. 2). Angus-based heifers (n = 31, Exp. 1; n = 14, Exp. 2) were fed a basal diet (CON) or were fed a basal diet plus a vitamin and mineral supplement (VTM) from breeding (Exp. 1) or 60 d pre-breeding (Exp. 2) through calving. Colostrum was collected at calving, and serum was collected from calves 24 h after colostrum consumption to evaluate passive transfer. Serum was collected from calves in Exp. 1 to determine serum titers in response to vaccination at birth, pasture turn out, weaning, and 14 d after vaccination. Concentrations of IgG, IgM, or IgA in colostrum or in calf serum at 24 h were not impacted by dam treatment (p ≥ 0.21); however, concentrations of Ig in calf serum at 24 h were greater (p ≤ 0.01) in calves receiving maternal colostrum than those receiving a colostrum replacer. Calves born to VTM heifers had greater antibody titers at birth, pasture turn out, and weaning for infectious bovine rhinotracheitis (IBR), bovine viral diarrhea virus type 2 (BVD-2), and bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV), respectively. Our results suggest that the programming of immune function in calves via prenatal nutrition appears to extend postnatally in CON and VTM offspring.

FTIR monitoring of the 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine for lung cancer patients: Changes in amides vibrations correlated with biochemical assays

Lung cancer is one of the most lethal cancers. Unfortunately, respiratory tract infections are very common in lung cancer patients, delaying appropriate anticancer therapy. To increase therapy efficiency, in this study we examined the effect of 13-Valent Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine on the immune response in lung cancer patients, which indirectly affects the success of anticancer therapy. The study was done using biochemical tests and Fourier Transform InfraRed (FTIR) spectroscopy. For this purpose, serum from lung cancer patients aged 52 ± 9 years (III and IV clinical stage; 79 %; n = 103) before and seven as well as 30 days after vaccination was collected. Obtained results showed increasing concentrations of immunoglobulin IgG and IgG2 groups in patients after vaccination in comparison with group before vaccination. This result was confirmed by FTIR spectroscopy, where higher absorbances of amides vibrations were observed after vaccination. Interestingly, lack of differences in the amides absorbances between patients 7 and 30 days after vaccination were noticed. FTIR spectra also showed changes in the ratio between amide I and amide III as well as between amide II and amide III in the groups of patients after vaccination. From deconvolution of made I range (1600 cm−1–1700 cm−1) decrease of the ratio between α-helix and β-sheet around 0.05 was noticed in serum collected from patients after vaccination in comparison with patients before vaccination. Using Principal Component Analysis (PCA) analysis of FTIR data it was observed that serum collected from all three analyzed groups of samples was possible to differentiate. The highest accuracy in differentiation group of samples before and 7 days after vaccination was visible in amide I, while before and 30 days after vaccination using amide II. Correlation between immunoglobulin IgG and IgG2 concentrations obtained by biochemical assays and FTIR were noticed only in the group of serum collected 30 days after vaccination, which suggested that FTIR spectroscopy reflects biochemical data.

Dietary supplementation with functional amino acids improves the capacity of growing pigs to cope with a health challenge

This study aimed to assess the effects of additional dietary supplementation with a blend of functional amino acids (FAA) with Thr, Trp, and Met as a preventive (prior to health challenge), curative strategy (during health challenge) or both targeting the performance, body composition, metabolic biomarkers of growing group-housed pigs raised under a health challenge. Additionally, the influence of these feeding strategies on pig response was investigated after the challenge (during the finishing phase). Sixty weaned piglets [6.3 ± 0.9kg body weight (BW)] were distributed based on BW in a nursery barn to one of two dietary treatments (n=30): control (CN) or supplemented with FAA blend (FAA+; 120% of the Thr:Lys, Trp:Lys, and Met+Cys:Lys requirements) for 7 weeks. After 7 weeks, the pigs (27.9 ± 4.2kg of BW) were distributed in a randomized complete block design to one of four treatments for the period of the health challenge period in the growing phase: pigs fed a CN diet during the nursery period were either maintained on a CN diet (control; n=14) or switched to an FAA+ diet (curative strategy; n=14), whereas the pigs fed an FAA+ diet during the nursery period were either fed a CN diet (preventive strategy; n=14) or continued receiving an FAA+ diet (continuous strategy; n=14). The health challenge consisted of subjecting growing pigs to batch mixing, poor housing conditions, and oral inoculation with Salmonella Typhimurium (ST). Poor housing conditions were maintained for 4 weeks (weeks 8 to 11). After this period, the pigs received the same standard diets for 9 weeks (weeks 12 to 20), and the facilities were cleaned daily. The health challenge increased the rectal temperature (P < 0.01) and serum concentrations of haptoglobin (P < 0.05), IgA (P < 0.05), IgG (P < 0.01), triglycerides (P < 0.01), creatinine (P < 0.01), and urea (P < 0.01), while reducing serum concentrations of lactate dehydrogenase (P < 0.01), albumin (P < 0.01), and glucose (P < 0.05). Pigs fed a continuous FAA+ diet trend towards lower fecal ST shedding (P < 0.10) than did the curative strategy pigs and had better fecal consistency scores (P < 0.01) than did the control pigs. During the challenge period, pigs fed FAA+ curatively or continuously demonstrated higher average daily gain and feed efficiency compared to control pigs (P < 0.01). Greater (P < 0.05) protein deposition (+30%) and improved (P < 0.05) nitrogen retention efficiency (+20% to curative and +30% to continuous strategies) were observed in the pigs fed the FAA+ diet during the health challenge compared with the control pigs. Curative-fed FAA+ pigs had greater BW at the end of the finishing phase than did the control and preventive group (P < 0.05). In conclusion, the use of FAA supplementation as a curative or continuous strategy is highly effective at improving the performance and body composition of growing pigs under a health challenge.

Fractional Doses of Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine — A Noninferiority Trial

BackgroundPneumococcal conjugate vaccines are an expensive component of the routine immunization schedule. Fractional-dose regimens may be one option to increase the sustainability of the vaccine program.MethodsWe assessed whether the immunogenicity of fractional doses of the 10-valent and 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCV10 [GSK] and PCV13 [Pfizer], respectively) would be noninferior to that of the full doses and analyzed the prevalence of vaccine-serotype carriage. We randomly assigned healthy infants in Kenya to one of seven equal-sized trial groups. Participants in groups A through F were assigned to receive either a fractional or full dose of PCV10 or PCV13, administered as two primary doses plus one booster dose. In group A, participants received a full dose of PCV13; group B, a 40% dose of PCV13; group C, a 20% dose of PCV13; group D, a full dose of PCV10; group E, a 40% dose of PCV10; and group F, a 20% dose of PCV10. Participants in the seventh group (group G) received a full dose of PCV10 as three primary doses without a booster. Immunogenicity was assessed 4 weeks after the primary series of doses and 4 weeks after the booster dose. Noninferiority could be declared 4 weeks after the primary series if the difference in the percentage of participants with a threshold response was not more than 10% and 4 weeks after administration of the booster if the ratio of the geometric mean concentration (GMC) of IgG was more than 0.5. A vaccine dose was prespecified as noninferior if it met the noninferiority criterion for at least 8 of the 10 vaccine types in the PCV10 groups or at least 10 of the 13 vaccine types in the PCV13 groups. Carriage was assessed when participants were 9 months and 18 months of age.ResultsIn the per-protocol analysis, 40% of a full dose of PCV13 met the noninferiority criterion for 12 of 13 serotypes after the primary series and for 13 of 13 serotypes after the booster. The immunogenicity of the 20% dose of PCV13 and of the 40% and 20% doses of PCV10 was not noninferior to that of the full doses. The prevalence of vaccine-serotype carriage was similar across the PCV13 groups at 9 months and 18 months of age.ConclusionsIn a three-dose schedule (two primary doses and a booster), 40% doses of PCV13 were noninferior to full doses for all included serotypes. Lower doses of PCV13 and PCV10 did not meet the criteria for noninferiority. (Funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and others; ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT03489018; Pan African Clinical Trial Registry number, PACTR202104717648755.)

Genetic parameter estimation for traits related to the immune system against sheep red blood cells in Japanese quail

ABSTRACT 1. Improving resistance against disease is important in the animal and poultry industry. Besides drugs and vaccines, genetic selection for improved immune systems may be an effective approach. 2. Traits related to the immune system were studied in a 938 pedigreed Japanese quail population infected by sheep red blood cells (SRBC). Besides body weight at 35 d of age (BW35), weight of the gizzard (G), liver (Li), lungs (Lu), bursa (Bu), spleen (S), heart (H), and digestive track (D) and length of ileum (I) and caecum (C) were recorded. Total antibody (TA), mercaptoethanol-resistant (IgG), mercaptoethanol-sensitive titres (IgM), the number of monocyte (M), basophil (B) and eosinophil (E) and the ratio of heterophil to lymphocyte (H/L) were measured. Co-variance components were estimated via Gibbs sampling using GIBBS3F90 software. Five univariate animal models, including simple forms, were used for genetic parameter estimations, and the best model was determined by the deviance information criterion (DIC). Genetic and environmental correlations were estimated using a bivariate animal model. 3. Direct heritability estimates for internal organs ranged from 0.06 (Lu) to 0.57 (G) and for immune system traits from 0.05 (IgM) to 0.17 (IgG). Negative genetic correlations were found between BW35 and internal organs (−0.22 to −0.80). 4. Including one of the internal organs, such as the spleen, in the selection index improved the immune response in heavier birds. Additionally, because of the moderate heritability of IgG (0.17) and its effect on lasting immunity, selecting for higher IgG concentration may improve the resistance of Japanese quail against pathogens.

The effect of group size and laying month on the quality, IgG, and corticosterone levels of goose eggs

Abstract. Environmental stress is known to negatively affect poultry health, production, and egg quality. Our study aimed to evaluate the effects of two different group sizes and the laying month on egg quality characteristics as well as the effect of group size on corticosterone and IgG levels in goose eggs. The research was conducted on a semi-free-range goose breeder farm in Hajdú–Bihar county, Hungary. The eggs included in the analysis were produced by 4-year-old geese of the Grimaud breed. Two group sizes were constructed; the large group contained 850 birds; and there were three small groups, each containing 50 geese as replicates. The effect of the laying month and group size on egg quality parameters and the effect of group size on egg IgG and corticosterone contents were investigated. Eggs laid in January at the peak of production and at the end of February (low-production period) were involved in the study. Regarding the effect of months, we noticed a decrease in egg width (from 6.12 to 5.98 cm), shell thickness (from 0.76 to 0.61 mm at the blunt end, from 0.69 to 0.61 mm at the equator, and from 0.65 to 0.56 mm at the pointed end), shell weight (from 19.56 to 18.19 g), yolk weight (from 69.05 to 62.35 g), yolk ratio (from 36.45 % to 34.43 %), yolk diameter (from 7.09 to 6.59 cm), and yolk colour with fan (from 12.58 to 11.83) and b∗ (from 54.57 to 49.91) (P ≤ 0.05). The albumen ratio and yolk pH increased from 53.24 % to 55.51 % and from 6.18 to 6.29 from January to February, respectively. Regarding group size, the albumen pH (8.77 vs. 8.67), IgG (4955 vs. 3823 ng mL−1), and corticosterone (187.26 vs. 76.24 ng mL−1) levels were higher in the small groups (P ≤ 0.05).

Epstein-Barr nuclear antigen 1 antibody-based indices are increased in patients with multiple sclerosis

BackgroundMultiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic central nervous system (CNS) disease, which is diagnosed by a combination of clinical symptoms and magnetic resonance imaging and measurement of an increased intrathecal antibody synthesis. Genetic as well as environmental factors influence onset of the disease, where especially Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection is directly involved in MS development. In this open retrospective study, we aimed to elaborate whether various serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)-based EBV antibody indices may aid in the diagnosis of MS. MethodsEpstein-Barr nuclear antigen (EBNA)1 IgG concentrations in serum and CSF of relapsing-remitting (RR)MS patients (n=61) (M:F 28:33, average 40 years), optic neuritis patients (n=26) (M:F 9:17, average 47 years) and healthy controls (HCs) (n=15) (M:F 8:7, average 43 years) were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The obtained EBNA1 IgG levels were compared to factors such as total IgG, albumin concentrations, specific antibody index, and various serum- and CSF-based indices. ResultsSignificantly elevated EBNA1 IgG levels were detected in serum and CSF of RRMS patients compared to HCs. CSF EBNA1 IgG and indices based on specific CSF EBNA1 IgG associated with CSF albumin or serum EBNA1 IgG associated with total serum IgG obtained the highest sensitivities and complemented the IgG index and oligoclonal bands. ConclusionThese findings indicate that aforementioned indices may supplement existing indices and aid in the diagnosis of MS.

Effects of adding niacinamide to diets with normal and low protein levels on the immunity, antioxidant, and intestinal microbiota in growing-finishing pigs

This study aimed to investigate the effects of nicotinamide (NAM) applied to diets with different crude protein levels on immune function, antioxidant capacity, and intestinal flora in growing-finishing pigs. Forty barrows (37.0±1.0 kg) were randomly allocated to one of four dietary treatments (n=10 per group). The diets in the two phases consisted of a basal diet with 30 mg/kg NAM, a basal diet with 360 mg/kg NAM, a low-protein diet with 30 mg/kg NAM, and a low-protein diet with 360 mg/kg NAM. The results showed that dietary addition of 360 mg/kg NAM decreased IL-12, malondialdehyde, IgG and IgM contents in the plasma and increased total superoxide dismutase activity and total antioxidant capacity in the colonic mucosa (P < .05). Supplementing the diet with 360 mg/kg NAM increased mRNA expression of the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain containing 2 and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 and protein expression of nuclear factor kappa-B and toll-like receptor 4 in the colonic mucosa (P < .05). The concentrations of acetic acid and butyric acid in the colonic contents and the abundance of Actinobacteriota in the colon at the phylum level were significantly decreased by feeding low-protein diets (P < .05). Additionally, the addition of 360 mg/kg NAM to diets increased (P < .05) the Sobs, Ace, and Chao indices of colonic microorganisms in pigs. Overall, the rational use of NAM can improve inflammatory status, enhance antioxidant capacity and intestinal barrier function, and increase colonic microbial diversity in growing-finishing pigs.

Immunity Dynamics of Neisseria meningitidis Serogroups ACYW from Birth and Following Vaccination.

Background: Serosurveillance of epidemic cerebrospinal meningitis (ECM) in healthy individuals is crucial for assessing disease risk and evaluating the effectiveness of vaccinations. However, this practical work is rare in China. Methods: We conducted cross-section serosurveillance in Guangzhou, Zhanjiang, and Heyuan in Guangdong Province, measuring Anti-Nm IgG with serogroups A, C, Y, and W, and analyzed the trends using a generalized additive model (GAM). Results: During 2019-2022, 7752 participants were included. The overall antibody positivity rate for serogroups A, C, Y, and W were 60.75%, 15.51%, 32.83%, and 14.56%, respectively. High Anti-Nm IgG was in children aged 0-5 and 5-10 years old. Geometric mean concentrations (GMCs) of Anti-Nm IgG were higher and correlated positively with vaccine doses compared with unvaccinated individuals. The GMC showed a consistent decrease trend in the vaccinated and a U-shaped curve in populations. The declined rates of GMC were 1.59 (95% CI: 1.03, 2.14) µg/mL, 1.65 (95% CI: 1.28, 2.03), 0.62 (95% CI: 0.22, 1.03), and 0.31 (95% CI: 0.08, 0.53) µg/mL per year for serogroups A, C, Y, and W, respectively. Conclusions: There were differences in antibody positivity rate and GMC for the four serogroups of ECM in the healthy individuals of Guangdong Province, with serogroup A showing the highest, and the demographic differences highlighted the high seroprevalence of Neisseria meningitidis in younger people. The variable prevalence rates among serogroups A, C, Y, and W and the observed decline in antibody titers underscore the need for adjustments in the immunization program targeting the meningococcal vaccine.

Simultaneous Protein Quantitation and Glycosylation Profiling of Antigen-Specific Immunoglobulin G1 in Large Clinical Studies.

Antibodies have a key role in the immune system, making their characterization essential to biomedical, biopharmaceutical, and clinical research questions. Antibody effector functions are mainly controlled by quantity, subclass, and Fc glycosylation. We describe an integrated method to measure these three critical dimensions simultaneously. The subclass-specific immunoglobulin G (IgG) Fc glycosylation analysis combines immunosorbance with glycopeptide-centered LC-MS detection. For integrated IgG1-specific quantitation, a commercial, stable isotope labeled IgG1 protein standard was spiked into the immunosorbent eluates. Robust quantitation was achieved, relying on a combination of a proteotypic peptide and the most abundant glycopeptides, generated through proteolytic cleavage from a mixture of natural IgG1 and the recombinant IgG1 standard. Method performance was demonstrated in a large coronavirus vaccination cohort at a throughput of 100 samples/day. LC-MS-derived, anti-SARS-CoV-2 spike protein IgG1 concentrations ranged from 100 to 10000 ng/mL and correlated well with a clinically relevant immunoassay. Technical variation was 200 times lower than biological variation; intermediate precision was 44%. In conclusion, we present a method capable of robustly and simultaneously assessing quantity, subclass, and Fc glycosylation of antigen-specific IgG in large clinical studies. This method will facilitate a broader understanding of immune responses, especially the important interplay among the three dimensions.

Serum IgG Antibody against Helicobacter pylori and the CagA-VacA s1 Genotype as a Predictor of Gastric Cancer Development: A Case-control Study

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)-induced inflammation increases the risk of developing various upper gastrointestinal conditions which may progress to gastric cancer (CA). Early prediction and detection of infection are crucial for reducing cancer-induced mortality rates. The present case-control study aimed to investigate the combination of serum and molecular markers and H. pylori-associated gastro-duodenal conditions as risk factors for predicting CA development in dyspeptic patients. Consecutive gastric biopsies and blood samples were collected from 100 adult dyspeptic patients. Serum IgG antibody levels against H. pylori were determined, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed. The expression of the virulence genes cagA and vacA was evaluated by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). A significant association was reported between the disease condition and the status of several risk factors, such as family history, serum IgG antibody concentration, and the virulence genes cagA and vacA. Among the 71 H. pylori-positive patients, 35.2% (25/71) had CA. Both cagA and vacA genes were found in 46 out of 71 (64.7%) patients, and 92% (23/25) of CA patients carried the cagA+vacA s1 gene. ROC analysis of the serum IgG concentrations revealed AUC values of 0.81 and 0.78 for differentiating patients with non-ulcer dyspepsia from those with ulceration/inflammation and CA, respectively. The concordance between the IgG-positive and PCR-positive patients was 84% (k value=0.41). Patients who had a family history of CA with an increased serum IgG concentration and the presence of H. pylori cagA-vacA s1 genotypes may be considered strong predictors of future development of gastric pathologies, including CA.

The effect of BCG revaccination on the response to unrelated vaccines in urban Ugandan adolescents (POPVAC C): an open-label, randomised controlled trial

Immune responses induced by several important vaccines differ between populations, with reduced responses in low-income and rural settings compared with high-income and urban settings. BCG immunisation boosts immune responses to some unrelated vaccines in high-income populations. We aimed to test the hypothesis that BCG revaccination can enhance responses to unrelated vaccines in Ugandan schoolchildren. We conducted an open-label, randomised controlled trial to compare the effects of BCG revaccination versus no BCG revaccination on the immunogenicity of subsequent unrelated vaccines among adolescents aged 13-17 years who are participants in an urban Ugandan birth cohort study, in which BCG vaccination was documented at birth. Participants were excluded if they had received any of the trial vaccines or related agents when aged 5 years or older. Computer-generated 1:1 randomisation was implemented in REDCap. Participants were excluded if they were concurrently enrolled in other trials; had a clinically significant history of immunodeficiency, or serious psychiatric conditions or moderate to severe acute illnesses; were taking immunosuppressive medications; had allergies to vaccine components, a predisposition towards developing keloid scarring; positive HIV tests or pregnancy tests; were female participants who were lactating; or if they planned to use investigational drugs, vaccines, blood products, or any combination thereof. Trial participants assigned to the BCG revaccination group received the live parenteral BCG-Russia vaccine (Serum Institute of India, Pune, India; 0·1 mL intradermally, right upper arm) at week 0. All participants received yellow fever vaccine (YF-17D; Sanofi Pasteur, Lyon, France; 0·5 mL intramuscularly, left upper arm), live oral typhoid vaccine (Ty21a; PaxVax, London, UK; one capsule per day taken for three alternate days), and quadrivalent virus-like particle human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine (Merck, Rahway, NJ, USA; 0·5 mL intramuscularly, left upper arm) at week 4; and toxoid vaccines (tetanus-diphtheria; Serum Institute of India; 0·5 mL intramuscularly, left upper arm) and an HPV booster at week 28. An additional HPV vaccination at week 8 was provided to female participants older than 14 years who had not previously been vaccinated. The primary outcomes were yellow fever neutralising antibody titres at 4 weeks post-YF-17D vaccination, Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi (henceforth S Typhi) O-lipopolysaccharide (O:LPS)-specific IgG concentration at 4 weeks post-Ty21a vaccination, and HPV-16 and HPV-18 L1 protein-specific IgG concentration at 4 weeks post-HPV vaccination. Primary outcome assays were conducted at week 8, and at week 52 for tetanus-diphtheria. We conducted an intention-to-treat analysis comparing log-transformed outcomes between trial groups, with results back-transformed to geometric mean ratios (GMRs). The safety population comprised all randomly allocated participants. The trial was registered at the ISRCTN Registry (ISRCTN10482904) and is complete. Between Aug 31 and Oct 12, 2020, we screened 376 potential participants for eligibility. We enrolled and randomly allocated 300 participants to the two groups (151 [50%] to the BCG group and 149 [50%] to the no BCG group). 178 (59%) of 300 participants were male and 122 (41%) were female. 142 (91%) of 151 participants in the BCG group and 139 (93%) of 149 in the no BCG group completed follow-up. There was no effect of BCG revaccination, compared with no BCG revaccination, on the response observed for any vaccine. Yellow fever plaque reduction neutralising reference tests (PRNT50) titres (the reciprocal of the last plasma dilution that reduced by 50%) had a GMR of 0·95 (95% CI 0·75-1·19; p=0·62) and PRNT90 (reciprocal of the last plasma dilution that reduced by 90%) had a GMR of 0·94 (0·74-1·19; p=0·60); IgG to S Typhi O:LPS was 0·99 (0·80-1·23; p=0·94); IgG to HPV-16 was 0·97 (0·69-1·35; p=0·85) and to HPV-18 was 1·03 (0·76-1·40; p=0·83); and toxoid-specific IgG for tetanus was 1·13 (0·87-1·47; p=0·36) and was 1·00 (0·87-1·16; p=0·97) for diphtheria. There were no serious adverse events in either group. We found no evidence that BCG revaccination is an effective strategy to improve immunogenicity of other vaccines in this low-income, urban setting. UK Medical Research Council. For the Luganda translation of the abstract see Supplementary Materials section.

Korean Red Ginseng relieves the inflammation and oxidative stress induced by pseudo-typed SARS-CoV-2

BackgroundDeveloping antiviral agents against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has been a global goal since the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic emerged in 2019. Korean Red Ginseng (KRG), recognized for its immunomodulating and antiviral properties, may be effective against SARS-CoV-2. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the efficiency of KRG in a human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (hACE2)-expressing mouse model infected with pseudo-typed SARS-CoV-2 (PSV). MethodsThe lung injury score was assessed using H&E staining, and the immune cell population shift in the lung and spleen was observed through flow cytometry. Serum IgM and IgG concentrations were quantified using enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA). Pro-inflammatory cytokine levels were measured by cytometric bead assay (CBA) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Additionally, the expression of NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) and inflammation-related transcription factors was detected by immunoblotting. RNA-sequencing and antibody array assays reconfirmed gene expression in inflammation and oxidation. ResultsKRG extract was most effective in treating lung injuries and serum IgM and IgG levels. Also, immune cells, including neutrophils, were regulated in the lungs, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-a) levels were reduced. NLRP3 and phosphorylated nuclear factor-κB (NF-kB) and activator protein 1 (AP-1) were downregulated. Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) expression was increased, indicating that KRG extract has antioxidant properties. RNA-sequencing and antibody array assays revealed that KRG extract regulates the expression of genes associated with inflammation and oxidative damage. ConclusionsThis study demonstrates that KRG extract may suppress PSV-induced inflammation and oxidative stress, making it a viable antiviral functional food.

Cross-sectional study investigating the components and quality of colostrum and colostrum replacement products fed to Ontario dairy goat kids

Colostrum replacement products for use in goat kids are sourced from bovine colostrum and often used by producers to supplement or replace maternal colostrum to prevent infections. To compare the colostrum replacement products fed on-farm to caprine colostrum a cross-sectional study was undertaken. Ontario dairy goat producers were asked to collect first milking colostrum from their goats and samples of the reconstituted commercial replacement product currently in use. The frozen samples were thawed and submitted for testing of fat, protein and lactose content, IgG1 concentration and aerobic bacterial culture. Compared with caprine colostrum, the reconstituted replacement products were lower in protein (11.7%; P = 0.0007), and fat (4.6%; P < 0.0001) and higher in lactose (5.4%; P < 0.0001) on average. The average IgG1 concentration in goat colostrum (53.5 g/L; range: 16.6-1985.8) was significantly higher than in colostrum replacement products (33.7 g/L; range: 10.7-55.3) (P < 0.0001). The Brix cut-point for good quality goat colostrum (50 g/L) was calculated at 23% (sensitivity = 69.6%, specificity = 88.0%) for goat colostrum and 26% for the colostrum replacement product (sensitivity = 87.5%, specificity = 100%). The average aerobic count for goat colostrum was lower (2.95 log10 cfu/mL) than the colostrum replacement product samples that were cultured (3.85 log10 cfu/mL; P < 0.0001). Further investigation into colostrum replacement products, including on-farm storage of opened powdered product and mixing and storage of reconstituted product, is warranted. Variability in the levels of IgG1, aerobic bacterial growth and fat, protein and lactose content in colostrum replacement products also requires further exploration to determine their effects on kid health.

Elderly Individuals Exhibit Elevated Levels of Anti-Monkeypox Virus Antibodies Compared to Adults, Youth, and Children.

The variola virus, the causative agent of smallpox, has claimed more human lives than all other infectious diseases combined. Consequently, any epidemiological event involving related viruses (orthopoxviruses) triggers significant concern, as was the case with the pandemic rise of monkeypox virus (MPXV), the causative agent of monkeypox in 2022-2023. Smallpox vaccines, based on vaccinia virus antigens, are expected to provide cross-protection against MPXV. Studying the general seroprevalence of orthopoxviruses in populations worldwide is crucial for estimating susceptibility, risks, and the need for vaccination campaigns. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the seroprevalence of antibodies capable of recognizing MPXV in a Brazilian population and assess the potential for cross-protection from previous smallpox vaccinations. We analyzed demographic data, vaccination records, and serum levels of anti-MPXV IgG measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in 319 volunteers from Barreiras, Bahia, Brazil. Our main findings show that the numbers of volunteers with serum samples recognizing MPXV in ELISA, as well as their serum levels of anti-MPXV IgG, did not differ significantly according to gender or address type. However, both male and female elderly volunteers exhibited significantly higher concentrations of anti-MPXV IgG than adults, youth, and children. These results suggest that the elderly may benefit from a cross-reactive immune response due to previous smallpox vaccinations, whereas adults, youth, and children appear susceptible to MPXV. Further investigations involving other populations are necessary to assess the necessity of vaccinating potentially vulnerable groups.

The Impact of Food Specific IgG Antibodies on Migraine and Its Comorbidities.

To investigate the differences in headache and comorbidity symptoms between migraine patients with negative and positive food specific IgG antibodies, and explore the correlation between these symptoms with food specific IgG antibodies. A total of 129 migraine patients were enrolled. Seven questionnaires were used to gather information regarding the symptoms of migraine, gastrointestinal, depression, anxiety, and sleep. Serum specific IgG antibodies against 14 kinds of food were detected using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Patients with migraine diagnosis who had positive food specific IgG antibodies had significantly worse headaches, gastrointestinal and anxiety symptoms, compared to the patients with negative IgG antibodies. Patients with more IgG positive foods and higher total positive IgG concentration generally had worse migraine conditions, anxiety, depression, and gastrointestinal symptoms. The effect of food specific IgG antibodies on severity of migraine and its comorbidities were antibody-quantity and IgG-concentration dependent. Future studies are warranted to explore the mechanism underlying such relationship.

Interrogating post-transplant donor HLA-specific antibody characteristics and effector functions using clinical bead assays

Single antigen bead (SAB) assays are the most common and sensitive method used to detect and monitor post-transplant donor specific HLA antibodies (DSA). However, a direct comparison across traditional and modified SAB assays to improve routine DSA monitoring using pre-treated IgG sera to eliminate interference has not been performed. We performed a technical comparison of 251 post-transplant DSA from n = 91 serum samples tested neat (pre-treated, undiluted), at a single 1:16 dilution, in the C1q bead assay, and for IgG subclasses (IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, IgG4) with IgG-enriched sera. We found that DSAs that are detectable by 1:16 dilution and/or C1q are associated with higher IgG MFI values and results could be predicted by testing neat sera. DSA detected at 1:16 dilution correlated with >7000 IgG MFI in neat sera and identified DSA that exceeded the SAB linear range for semiquantitative measurements. C1q positive DSA correlated with >15,000 IgG MFI in neat sera. C1q binding correlated most strongly with total IgG MFI (Spearman r = 0.82, p = 0.002) and not specific subclasses, demonstrating that DSA C1q binding capacity in this cohort is driven by HLA-specific IgG concentration. Evaluation of engineered pan-HLA class I-specific human IgG1 and IgG2 subclass monoclonal antibodies by SAB C1q and C3d assays revealed that IgG2 antibodies can bind complement at higher concentrations. The strengths and limitations of modified SAB assays must be considered to optimize efficient testing and accurate clinical interpretation.

Comparative analysis of the parameters of local immunity of oral fluid and the duration of the course in children with systemic lupus erythematosus, juvenile scleroderma, juvenile dermatomyositis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis and systemic vasculitis

Immunoglobulins are considered to be the main factor of specific antimicrobial protection of oral tissues.The study was conducted on the basis of the University Children’s Clinical Hospital of the I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University of the N.F. Filatov Clinical Institute of Child Health, in the Department of Rheumatology. The study involved 316 children, with diseases: systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), juvenile dermatomyositis (YDM), juvenile limited scleroderma (YOSD), juvenile systemic scleroderma (YSSD), juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), systemic vasculitis (SV) and Behcet’s disease (BB) and were divided into age groups according to the duration of the course of the underlying disease. The analysis of the results revealed a decrease in the content of IgG, IgA, sIgA in saliva in children with rheumatic diseases in all age groups compared with the control group (children without somatic diseases). With the duration of the course of the disease up to 2 years, the most pronounced decrease in the content of IgG, IgA, sIgA in saliva was revealed, more than 4–10 times (p&lt;0.05), and with a duration of more than 2 years, a decrease of 2–3 times (p&lt;0.01), compared with the control group. The deficiency of these immunoglobulins shows that in children with rheumatic diseases, regardless of the nosology, there is a violation of the local immunity of the oral cavity, especially at the onset of the underlying disease (in groups up to 2 years of the duration of the course of the underlying disease), with pronounced autoimmune inflammation of tissues and blood vessels, and this is also facilitated by the reception, during this period of shock doses of glucocorticosteroids, cytostatics, immunosuppressors, which leads to severe inflammatory processes of the oral mucosa, periodontal and hard tissues of the teeth.

Granulomatosis with polyangiitis with lacrimal gland enlargement and pancreatic swelling: case report and literature review.

A 62-year-old man had bilateral eyelid swelling for 4 months. Two months before admission, he developed fatigue and lost 5 kg of bodyweight. Further examination revealed elevated serum C-reactive protein, normal angiotensin-converting enzyme, elevated proteinase-3 antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (PR3-ANCA), and normal IgG4 concentration. Chest X-ray and computed tomography showed no enlarged hilar lymph nodes, but positron emission tomography-computed tomography showed fluorodeoxyglucose accumulation in both lacrimal glands, in lung nodules, and in the pancreas. Tissue biopsies of the lacrimal glands and pulmonary nodules showed granuloma with giant cells, but no IgG4-positive cells or fibrosis. Pancreatic tissue showed no findings of autoimmune pancreatitis. In the 2022 ACR/EULAR classification criteria for granulomatosis with polyangiitis, the total score was 10 points. Final comprehensive diagnosis was granulomatosis with polyangiitis, based on the negative results of differential diseases, such as IgG4-related diseases and sarcoidosis. Prednisolone 60 mg/day was started on day 8, and rituximab 500 mg/body/week on day 12. After beginning treatment, general malaise and lacrimal gland enlargement were resolved, PR3-ANCA and C-reactive protein became negative, and the nodular shadow in the lungs disappeared. This is the first report of granulomatosis with polyangiitis presenting both lacrimal gland and pancreatic lesions.