IgM Concentrations Research Articles

Immune Modulation Related to High-Dose Valacyclovir Administration for Primary Cytomegalovirus Infection in Pregnancy: An Insight into Virus Behavior and Maternal Serology

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection during pregnancy poses significant maternal and fetal health risks. Valacyclovir, an antiviral drug, has been explored as a therapeutic option for managing primary CMV infections in pregnant women. This study investigates the effects of valacyclovir therapy on immune response maturation against CMV, maternal antibody levels, and viral replication during treatment. We conducted a retrospective observational study involving pregnant women diagnosed with primary CMV infection and presenting in utero infection who received high-dose valacyclovir therapy (8 g/day). A group started the therapy at diagnosis, while another group started only after positive amniocentesis. Maternal antibody levels (IgM, IgG, and IgG avidity) and PCR for CMV testing (in blood, urine, and saliva) were measured longitudinally during the second and third trimesters. Our findings indicate that early valacyclovir therapy is related to lower avidity levels over time and a delay in reaching a high IgG avidity level (18.22 ± 1.21 weeks) compared to the patients who started Valacyclovir during the second trimester after positive amniocentesis (14.52 ± 1.64 weeks; p = 0.066). The therapy does not condition the overall concentration of maternal CMV-specific IgM and IgG. While high-dose VCV does not directly target the mechanism of IgG avidity maturation, it can interfere with this process by reducing the viral load and antigen presentation, influencing IgG avidity maturation. Further research is needed to elucidate the long-term implications of potential immunological modulation induced by Valacyclovir and to optimize early diagnosis and the right treatment protocol during pregnancy.

Effects of Replacing Inorganic Sources of Copper, Manganese, and Zinc with Different Organic Forms on Mineral Status, Immune Biomarkers, and Lameness of Lactating Cows.

(Objectives) The objectives of this study were to evaluate the effect of half-replacement of the supplementary sulfate sources of Cu, Mn, and Zn with methionine-hydroxy-analog-chelated (MHAC) mineral or amino-acid-complexed (AAC) mineral forms in diets on the mineral status, blood immune biomarkers, and lameness of lactating cows. (Methods) Sixty multiparous Holstein cows (158 ± 26 days in milk; body weight: 665 ± 52 kg; milk yield: 32 ± 7 kg/day) were randomly assigned into one of three dietary treatments (n = 20 per group): (1) MHAC: 50% replacement of sulfate minerals with MHAC forms. (2) AAC: 50% replacement of sulfate minerals with AAC forms. (3) S: 100% sulfate minerals (control). Their Cu, Mn, and Zn concentrations, blood immune biomarkers, and lameness were measured monthly. Repeated-measure mixed models were used to evaluate the effects on trace mineral status over time. As the responses with the MHAC and AAC forms were similar, the treatments were also analyzed as organic trace minerals (OTMs, combining the MHAC and AAC groups, n = 40) versus inorganic trace minerals (ITMs, the S group, n = 20). (Results) Cows supplemented with OTMs had higher concentrations of Cu and Mn in their serum (p ≤ 0.05), a higher hoof hardness (p ≤ 0.05), and a lower incidence of lameness compared to those with ITMs on d 90. There were no statistical differences (p > 0.10) in the concentrations of IgA, IgG, or ceruloplasmin, but there were significant differences (p = 0.03) in the concentrations of IgM in the serum as fixed effects of the diet treatments during the whole trial. On d 30 and 90, the serum IgA concentrations of the cows supplemented with OTMs tended to be higher (0.05 < p ≤ 0.10) than those in the cows supplemented with ITMs. (Conclusions) The half-replacement strategy showed that the MHAC and AAC sources of Cu, Mn, and Zn additives had similar effects on the production performance, blood immune biomarkers, and lameness of the lactating cows. The long-term replacement strategy with OTMs led to the enhancement of the trace mineral concentrations in their body fluids, blood immune biomarkers, and hoof health.

Maternal obesity associates with altered humoral immunity in blood and colostrum.

Maternal obesity is a condition with increasing prevalence worldwide, that correlates with negative infant outcomes. Here we performed an observational cross-sectional study, where peripheral blood and colostrum samples from 37 mothers with BMI between 18.5-25 or > 30 kg/m2 (21 and 16 mothers, respectively) were collected 24-48 h postpartum. B lymphocyte subpopulations were investigated using flow cytometry. IgG, IgA, and IgM concentrations, and antibody production from colostrum-resident B cells were quantified. Overall, naïve B lymphocytes were the most abundant subtype in peripheral blood, while CD27-IgD- double-negative B cells were the most B lymphocyte subtype abundant in colostrum. The colostrum from mothers with BMI > 30 kg/m2 contained significantly more IgG-secreting colostrum-resident B cells, more IgG, and less IgA. Mothers with BMI > 30 kg/m2 who had been vaccinated with the Pfizer BioNTech bivalent vaccine during the third trimester of pregnancy (n = 8) did not show higher IgA or IgG antibody responses against SARS-CoV-2 RBD in either tissue types compared to unvaccinated mothers, contrasting with mother of BMI between 18.5-25 kg/m2 (n = 7). Similar trends were evidenced in colostrum post-Tdap vaccination. This is the first characterization of B lymphocyte subpopulations and antibodies in the colostrum of mothers with obesity. This work uncovers maternal obesity as a possible modifier of humoral immune components in colostrum.

Effects of Ganoderma lucidum Powder on the Growth Performance, Immune Organ Weights, Cecal Microbiology, Serum Immunoglobulins, and Tibia Minerals of Broiler Chickens.

A total of 640 one-day-old Cobb 500 MV × Cobb 500 FF mixed broilers were randomly assigned to one of four experimental treatments with four replicates per treatment and 40 birds per replicate for 32 days. The treatments consisted of a basal diet (control group), basal diet + 0.02% zinc bacitracin (AGP group), basal diet + 0.2% G. lucidum powder (GLP; 0.2% GLP group), and basal diet + 0.3% GLP (0.3% GLP group). The results showed that dietary 0.2% GLP supplementation increased body weight compared to the control and 0.3% GLP groups, and decreased feed conversion ratio (FCR) compared to the control group, during 19-32 days (p < 0.05). The feed intake was lower (p < 0.05) in both dietary GLP supplementation groups and the AGP group during 1-8 and 1-32 days compared to the control group. Additionally, the FCR was lower in the dietary GLP supplementation group (0.2%) and the AGP group (p < 0.05) compared to the control group. Moreover, the caeca of broiler chickens in the AGP and 0.2% GLP groups had a higher abundance of lactic acid bacteria (LAB). Supplementation of feed additives (AGP and GLP) increased the relative weight of the thymus, with no effect on the bursa of Fabricius and spleen. However, AGP supplementation decreased the serum IgM concentration, while supplementing a higher dose of GLP (0.3%) increased the ash content in the tibia. The findings indicate that 0.2% GLP is the recommended supplementation dose as a natural growth promoter to replace AGP in apparently normal chickens.

Effects of Supranutritional Selenium Supplementation During Different Trimesters of Pregnancy on Humoral Immunity in Beef Cattle at Parturition.

Supranutritional Se supplementation may improve immune responses in beef cattle. Immunity is compromised in beef cattle during the periparturient period. This study aims to determine the best time during pregnancy to supplement beef cows with Se-yeast to optimize humoral immunity at parturition. Multiparous, black Angus and Angus cross cows (n = 79) were used in the study. All cows had ad libitum access to a mineral supplement containing 120mg/kg Se (US FDA regulations) from Na selenite. In addition, all cows except controls (CTR) received Se supplementation of 105mg Se/week from Se-yeast boluses administered once weekly during their specific treatment trimester of gestation (TR1, TR2, or TR3) for 13weeks. This dosage was supranutritional equaling 5 × the upper range of US FDA Se administration regulations. Blood was collected at parturition from all cows. Laboratory analyses studied to assess humoral immunity included measuring IBR, BVD types 1 and 2, PI3, and BRSV serum neutralization titers post vaccination, assessing total IgM and antigen-specific IgM concentrations, and determining complement-mediated bacterial killing percentages. Statistical analyses were performed using GraphPad Prism and SAS 9.4. Supranutritional Se-yeast supplementation increased whole-blood (WB) Se concentrations regardless of trimester of supplementation (all P < 0.0001). Supplementation during TR2 and TR3 was more effective in increasing WB-Se concentrations at parturition than during TR1 or CTR (all P < 0.0001). TR2 cows had higher serum neutralization titers for BRSV compared with CRT cows (P = 0.03). Total serum IgM and Vibrio coralliilyticus-specific IgM concentrations were highly correlated (r = 0.78; P < 0.0001). Compared with CTR cows, TR1, TR2, and TR3 cows had similar total IgM concentrations (all P ≥ 0.19) and similar Vibrio coralliilyticus-specific IgM concentrations (all P ≥ 0.47). Complement-mediated bacterial killing percentages were greater in TR2 and TR3 cows (> 99.6%) compared with TR1 (93.9%) and CTR (89.3%) cows, and all Se-supplemented TR groups were greater than CTR cows (all P ≤ 0.05). The significant group differences in the complement-mediated bacterial killing assay reflected WB-Se concentrations. Supranutritional Se-yeast supplementation during TR2 and TR3 is associated with higher serum neutralization titers for some viral antigens, as well as enhanced complement-mediated bacterial killing in cows at parturition. These findings suggest that Se supplementation during later trimesters of pregnancy may help combat infectious disease challenges during the periparturient period in beef cattle.

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.

Extensive characterization of COVID-19 convalescent plasma from Bulgarian donors

The total and SARS-CoV-2-specific antibody content in convalescent plasma (CP) samples from Bulgarian donors and their therapeutic potential for COVID-19 patients was subjected to characterization. CPs (n = 90) were obtained after informed consent at National Centre of Transfusion Hematology in Sofia, Bulgaria, in the period 01 June 2021 and were tested for RBD-IgG, RBD-IgA and anti-nuclear antibodies (ANA) by semi-quantitative ELISA. Concentrations of total IgG, IgG isotypes, IgA, and IgM, as well as of 25 Th1, Th2, Th17 and regulatory cytokines were determined for all samples; concentrations of Neutralizing antibodies against six SARS-CoV-2 variants were determined in Receptor-Binding Domain (RBD-positive) samples (Luminex xMAP technology). Concordant production of RBD-specific IgG and IgA was detected in 45 (50%); 12 (13.3%) were RBD-IgG single-positive, 8 (8.8%) RBD-IgA single-positive, and 25 (27.7%) – double negative. Absence of neutralizing activity was documented for 8/65 (12.3%) of RBD-positive samples. No correlation existed between the levels of RBD-IgG and RBD-IgA and the total neutralizing activity of CPs (p > 0.05). Total IgG, IgA, IgM and IgG Isotype concentrations did not differ from reference values. Increased concentrations of IL-18, IL-27, IL-1Ra, IL-21 and IL-22 were detected in most tested samples (80% respectively). The comparison between 45 RBD-double positive and 25 RBD-double negative CPs showed significant differences for the concentrations of IL-22 (2.4 vs 40, p < 0.05) and IL-10 (1 vs 15, p < 0.001). All CPs were ANA negative. Detailed characterization for SARS-CoV-2 specific antibody content and cytokine concentrations might improve the results of CPs application for in early stage treatment in resource-limited settings.

TbpB-based oral mucosal vaccine provides heterologous protection against Glässer’s disease caused by different serovars of Spanish field isolates of Glaesserella parasuis

BackgroundGlaesserella parasuis (G. parasuis) is the primary agent of Glässer’s disease, significantly affecting nursery and early fattening piglets. Current prophylactic measures, mainly serovar-specific bacterins administered to sows, are limited by maternal immunity, which can interfere with active immunization in piglets. Subunit vaccines containing G. parasuis-specific antigenic molecules show promise but are not yet commercially available. Transferrin-binding proteins (Tbp), which enable G. parasuis to acquire iron in low-iron environments like mucosal surfaces, have been proposed as potential vaccine antigens. The mucosal administration of a TbpB-based subunit vaccine could provide a promising solution to overcome the limitations posed by maternal immunity, offering an effective approach to control the disease in weaning piglets. This study, conducted in two phases, primarily evaluates (days 0–45) the immunogenicity of a two-dose oral mucosal TbpB-based subunit vaccine (TbpBY167A) administered to colostrum-deprived piglets, and subsequently (days 45–52), its heterologous protection by challenging these piglets with four G. parasuis clinical isolates from different TbpB clusters (I, III) and serovars (SV1, SV4, SV5, SV7) recovered from Spanish pig farms.ResultsThe oral mucosal administration of the two-dose TbpB-based vaccine induced a robust humoral immune response in immunized colostrum-deprived piglets, significantly increasing IgA and IgM concentration 15 days after the second dose (p < 0.01). Upon challenge with four G. parasuis clinical isolates, the vaccine demonstrated heterologous protection, markedly improving survival rates (OR: 8.45; CI 95%: 4.97–14.36) and significantly reducing clinical signs and lesions, regardless of the TbpB cluster and serovar. The vaccine reduced G. parasuis colonization in the respiratory tract (p < 0.0001) and G. parasuis systemic target tissues, like tarsus and carpus joints, liver, and brain (p < 0.05). Immunohistochemical analysis showed a lower macrophage count in different lung locations of immunized piglets (p < 0.0001).ConclusionsThis study demonstrates that oral mucosal administration of the TbpBY167A subunit vaccine in piglets provides effective heterologous protection against diverse virulent European G. parasuis field isolates, significantly reducing bacterial colonization and dissemination. This vaccine offers a promising alternative to traditional bacterins, overcoming limitations due to maternal immunity, and represents a strong candidate for universal vaccination against Glässer’s disease.

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.

Disorders of acid-base balance promote rumen lipopolysaccharide biosynthesis in dairy cows by modulating the microbiome.

Disorders of acid-base balance in the rumen of dairy cows have a significant impact on their health and performance. However, the effect of transient differences in pH on susceptibility to subacute ruminal acidosis (SARA) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) biosynthesis in dairy cows remains unclear. In this study, milk, serum, and rumen fluid samples from 40 Holstein dairy cows (on d 56 postpartum) with different rumen pH (2-4 h after morning feeding) were explored to investigate the difference of susceptibility to SARA and the correlation between microbiome, LPS and inflammation. These cows were categorized into low pH (LPH, pH ≤ 6.0, n = 20) and high pH (HPH, pH ≥ 6.5, n = 20) groups. The results showed that LPH group increased the concentrations of total volatile fatty acids, acetate, propionate, butyrate and valerate. However, milk yield and milk compositions were unaffected. Compared to the HPH group, the LPH group increased the concentrations of serum BHBA, NEFA, LPS, HIS, IL-2, IL-6, TNF-α, and MDA, and decreased the concentrations of serum IgA, IgM, IgG, SOD, T-AOC, and mTOR. In addition, the LPH group decreased the copies of Ruminococcus flavefaciens and increased the copies of Fibrobacter succinogenes. Microbial community analysis isupplendicated a significant difference in bacterial composition between the two groups. At the phylum level, Bacteroidota and Firmicutes were enriched in the LPH and HPH groups, respectively. At the genus level, the dominant bacteria in the LPH group were Prevotella. Additionally, the LPH group increased the proportions of Gram-negative phenotypes, potentially pathogenic phenotypes and LPS biosynthesis. The close correlation between two key enzymes for LPS synthesis LpxL and LpxM with rumen pH, inflammatory markers, and microorganisms indicates that low pH may increase the risk of inflammation by facilitating the lysis of Gram-negative bacteria and the release of penta-acylated LPS. Penta-acylated and hexa-acylated LPS may be mainly derived from Prevotella and Succinivibrionaceae_UCG-001, respectively. Overall, these results support the notion that transient low pH could reflect the risk of cows suffering from SARA and associated inflammation and is strongly associated with penta-acylated LPS. Our findings provide new insights into ruminant health improvement and disease prevention strategies.

Clinical characteristics and risk factors analysis of abdominal symptoms in IgA vasculitis patients: a retrospective cohort study.

About 50% of children with IgA vasculitis (IgAV) have abdominal symptoms, usually colic mimic to acute abdomen. Since signs and symptoms of vasculitis may appear in any order, this may affect the diagnosis of children whose abdominal symptoms precede the appearance of purpura. It is necessary to identify the risk factors, pathogenesis, and specific biomarkers to improve the prevention and management of IgAV patients with abdominal symptoms. All the 278 patients were children who had been diagnosed with IgAV in Nanyang Central Hospital between January 2018 and December 2018. The patient's age, gender, clinical manifestations, laboratory examination, and medical history were retrospectively collected. All the patients were divided into two groups based on whether they had abdominal symptoms. Ridge regression and multivariate logistic regression model were used to find risk factors of IgAV patients with abdominal symptoms. Of the 278 patients, 54 patients had abdominal symptoms, and the remaining 224 patients had no abdominal symptoms. Patients with abdominal symptoms had a lower proportion of infections and higher IgM concentrations than patients with other symptoms. For patients over 12years of age, platelet counts were lower in patients with abdominal symptoms. In addition, basophil count was identified as a protective factor, while IgM was identified as a risk factor. Infections, platelet counts, basophil count, and IgM concentration may be associated with abdominal symptoms in IgAV patients. Basophils and IgM may be involved in the pathological mechanism of abdominal symptoms.

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.

Probiotic powder with polysaccharides from Wolfiporia cocos alleviates antibiotic-associated diarrhea by modulating immune activities and gut microbiota

To enhance immunomodulatory effects of lyophilized probiotics, we screened a new lyophilizing protective agent, that is Wolfiporia cocos polysaccharide (WP). This study demonstrated WP significantly increased the survival rate among seven polysaccharides, with the optimal dosage being 10 % (w/v). The ratio of bacterial suspension to lyophilizing protective agent was 1:2, in the condition, the probiotic survival rate of probiotics reached 83.06 %. Probiotic powder with WP (PWP) showed superior improvement in immune regulation and gut microbiota in antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD) mice compared to powder without WP. It notably increased IgM, IgG and IgA contents, and enhanced the activity of macrophage cells in the abdominal cavity. Furthermore, PWP exhibited the combined benefits of both the WP and PP in regulating the gut microbiota homeostasis, inhibiting the dysbiosis of the gut microbiota reflected in a significant increase in Proteobacteria, such as Sutterella, and decrease in Bacteroidetes, such as Muribaculaceae induced by AAD. Additionally, the correlation analysis indicated Sutterella had negative correlations with the immunomodulatory activities, meanwhile Muribaculace had positive correlations with the immunomodulatory activities. Overall, PWP could regulate the abundances of gut microbiota, thereby modulating immune activities and alleviating antibiotic-associated diarrhea, providing valuable insights for the development and application of WP in probiotics.

The effect of 12-week high-dose Colostrum Bovinum supplementation on immunological, hematological and biochemical markers in endurance athletes: a randomized crossover placebo-controlled study.

Bovine colostrum (COL) is assumed to be one of the strongest natural immune stimulants. Regular ingestion of COL may contribute to improved immune response in athletes exposed to high training loads. Twenty-eight endurance-trained males aged 31.1 ± 10.2 years (body mass 81.9 ± 9.0kg; height 1.82 ± 0.06m) completed this randomized double-blind placebo(PLA)-controlled crossover study aimed at investigating the effect of 12-week COL supplementation (25gCOL·day-1) on resting (REST), exercise-induced (POST-EX), and short-term post-exercise recovery (REC; 1h after test exercise) changes in selected saliva and blood immunoglobulins (Ig), white blood cell (WBC) count and differential; as well as blood hematological, nutritional status and muscle damage indices. The protocol assumed 4 study visits - before/after supplementation with COL (COLPRE and COLPOST ) and PLA (PLAPRE and PLAPOST ). During testing sessions, incremental rowing test to exhaustion and swimming-specific performance test were introduced as exercise stimuli. At COLPOST visit the secretory IgA (SIgA) concentration in saliva was significantly higher at POST-EX and REC compared to REST (p<0.05). COL supplementation had no effect on blood IgA, IgE, IgD, IgG, and IgM concentrations. Furthermore, after COL supplementation decrease of hematocrit at REC (p<0.05) was revealed. 12-week supplementation with 25 gCOL·day-1 in endurance-trained male athletes resulted in a favorable increase in post-exercise concentration of salivary SIgA. COL seems to be a potential stimulator of local immune defense after exercise-induced homeostasis disturbances. Nevertheless, the lack of effect on blood markers indicates the need for further research in the area of mechanisms underlying the effect of the supposed COL immunological capacity.

COVID-19 Vaccine-induced antibody response to BNT162b2 mRNA in frontline healthcare workers

The emergence of SARS-CoV-2, the virus causing COVID-19, has resulted in a pandemic that has disrupted all sectors of society. Less than a year after the sequencing of the virus’s genome, emergency use authorization for the BNT162b2 vaccine was requested. The aim of this study was to evaluate the response to the BNT162b2-mRNA COVID-19 vaccine in frontline workers from two hospitals in Colombia. Nasopharyngeal swabs were collected for the molecular detection of SARS-CoV-2 using real-time PCR, and blood samples were taken to assess seroconversion using qualitative and quantitative IgA, IgG, and IgM test kits. The study was conducted at a high-complexity healthcare institution in Bucaramanga, Colombia. 245 people were included in the first round and 129 in the second. SARS-CoV-2 molecular tests were conducted by RT-qPCR, and peripheral blood samples were collected to measure IgG, IgM, and IgA. The main outcome was to establish natural infection and the antibody response induced by the vaccine. The entire population was tested at two fixed times with RT-PCR tests and antibody level measurements approximately 4 and 8 months after receiving the second vaccine dose. 62 (25.3%) and 35 (14.3%) participants had a history of positive PCR in the first and second rounds, respectively. All positive cases showed elevated levels of all immunoglobulins, especially IgG. The average concentrations of IgA, IgM, and IgG at 90 days were 1149.5 U/mL (95% CI 828.2-1470.9); 320.3 U/mL (95% CI 218.4-422.3); and 9277.3 U/mL (95% CI 8989.2-9565.3). Frontline healthcare workers showed an adequate response to the BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine.

Nanoparticle-Binding Immunoglobulins Predict Variable Complement Responses in Healthy and Diseased Cohorts.

Systemic administration of nanomedicines results in the activation of the complement cascade, promoting phagocytic uptake and triggering proinflammatory responses. Identifying the biomarkers that can predict the "risk" of abnormally high complement responders can improve the safety and efficacy of nanomedicines. Polyethylene glycol (PEG) and dextran are two types of clinically approved polymer coatings that trigger complement activation. We performed a multifaceted analysis of the factors affecting the complement activation by PEGylated liposomal doxorubicin (PLD) and dextran-coated superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoworms (SPIO NWs) in plasma from patients with different inflammatory disease conditions and healthy donors. The complement activation (measured as deposition of the complement protein C3) varied greatly, with 29-fold and 26-fold differences for PLD and SPIO NWs, respectively. Chronic inflammation, acute infection, use of steroids, and sex had minor effects on the variable complement activation, whereas age inversely correlated with the complement activation. C-reactive protein level was not predictive of high (top 20th percentile) complement responses. Plasma concentrations of the main complement factors, as well as total IgG and IgM, showed no correlation with the activation by either nanoparticle. On the other hand, plasma concentrations of anti-PEG IgG and IgM showed a strong positive correlation with the activation by PLD. Particularly, titers of anti-PEG IgM showed the best predictive value for the "risk" of high complement activation by PLD. Titers of antidextran IgG and IgM showed a lower correlation with the activation by SPIO NWs and poor predictive value of the top 20% complement responses. Nanoparticle-bound immunoglobulins showed the best correlation with complement activation and a strong predictive value, supporting the critical role of immunoglobulins in inciting complement. The opsonization of PLD with C3 in plasma with high anti-PEG antibodies was predominantly via the alternative pathway. Characterizing the nature of nanoparticle-binding antibodies has important implications in mitigating and stratifying nanomedicine safety.

Effects of Arnebia benthamii Extract on Growth Performance, Immunological Parameters and Disease Resistance against Flexibacter columnare in Spotted Snakehead Channa punctata (Bloch)

Herbal immunostimulants are known to improve disease resistance in fish by enhancing specific and non-specific defensive mechanisms. The present study was conducted to evaluate the effects of Arnebia benthamii extract (AE) on growth rate, immune status, and disease resistance towards Flexibacter columnare in spotted snakehead Channa punctata. Each experimental group of healthy C. punctata was fed on one of the four experimental diets viz. basal diet (without any AE supplementation), AE10 (supplemented with 10 mg AE/kg basal diet), AE20 (supplemented with 20 mg AE/kg basal diet) and AE40 (supplemented with 40 mg AE/kg basal diet) for 42 days. When the concentration of Arnebia benthamii was raised from 0 to 40 mg/kg, the weight gain (WG) and specific growth rate (SGR) were considerably enhanced. The lysozyme activity, C3, C4, and serum globulin levels were also significantly increased in all Arnebia benthamii supplemented groups. IgM concentration in fish fed on AE40 diet was significantly higher than in fish fed on basal diet. All A. benthamii treatment groups exhibited significantly higher survival rates after being challenged with F. columnare. These findings showed that supplementing diet of C. punctata with A. benthamii improved growth, immunological response, and disease resistance against F. columnare, with the greatest benefits in fish fed on AE40 diet for 42 days.

Monitoring humoral responses against three SARS-CoV-2 vaccines in a university population from Chihuahua, Mexico.

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), the causative agent of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), has spread worldwide since 2019. Survey of the antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 is one of the most important measures of immunity since it can give an idea on the effectiveness of administered vaccines and the serologic status of individuals. We determined the concentrations of blood IgM and IgG against three SARS-CoV-2 proteins in vaccinated teachers and students among a university population from Chihuahua, Mexico. Humoral response surveillance against the 3C-like proteinase (3CLpro), nuclear protein (NP), and receptor binding domain (RBD) of SARS-CoV-2 was carried out. A total of 239 samples were analyzed: 67 from teachers who were vaccinated with CanSino and 172 from students (27.9% were vaccinated with AstraZeneca, 32.6% with Sinovac, 24.4% with Pfizer-BioNTech, 15.1% with other vaccines). Significant differences in the levels of IgG were observed between serum from individuals prior to vaccination (preimmunization serum) and from those that were vaccinated with CanSino. However, samples from asymptomatic individuals did not show differences between the preimmunization and post-immunization serum. The three vaccinated groups (AstraZeneca, Pfizer and Sinovac) did not show significant differences in anti-RBD IgG antibody titers compared to the positive control group, except for a Pfizer non-COVID-19 subgroup where the level of antibodies in the Pfizer group was 1.7 times higher. Neither vaccine group showed significant differences between those individuals who previously had COVID-19 and uninfected individuals. These results provide a picture of the situation at the time when in-person classes resumed.

Comparative Analysis of the Potential Adaptability of Tibetan Dzo and Yellow Cattle Based on Blood Indices, Metabolites, and Fecal Microbiota.

This study aimed to investigate the differences in environmental adaptability between dzo and Tibetan yellow cattle by using corresponding assay kits to analyze blood indices, utilizing mass spectrometry for blood metabolite profiling, and performing 16S rDNA sequencing of fecal microbiota. Forty female cattle were randomly divided into a dzomo (female dzo) group (MG, n = 20) and a Tibetan-yellow-cattle group (HG, n = 20). After 150 days of uniform feeding, six cattle from each group were randomly picked for jugular blood sampling and collection of fecal microorganisms. The results showed that the serum albumin, creatinine, total protein, superoxide dismutase, IgG, and IgM concentrations in the MG group were higher (p < 0.05), whereas the serum triglyceride concentration was lower, compared to the HG group (p < 0.05). The higher level of phospholipids containing long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) (PC (18:5e/2:0), PC (20:5e/2:0), LPC 18:2, LPC 20:5) observed in the serum of the dzo suggests that they have an advantage in adapting to the challenging conditions of the plateau environment. The fecal microbiota analysis showed that Akkermansia was significantly enriched in the MG group; this might be the key bacterial genus leading to the strong adaptability of dzo. Our findings indicated the dzo's superior adaptation to the Tibetan Plateau's harsh environment.

Immune Response after Vaccination against Tick-Borne Encephalitis Virus (TBEV) in Horses.

(1) Background: Horses infected by a tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) can develop clinically apparent infections. In humans, vaccination is the most effective preventive measure, while a vaccine is not available for horses. The objective of this study was to describe the immune response in horses after a TBEV vaccination with a human vaccine. (2) Materials and Methods: Seven healthy horses were randomised to a treatment or a control group in a stratified fashion based on TBEV-IgG concentrations on day -4. The treatment group (n = 4) was intramuscularly vaccinated using an inactivated human TBEV vaccine on days 0 and 28; the control group (n = 3) did not receive an injection. A clinical examination and blood sampling were performed on day -4, 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 14, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 43, 56, 84, and 373. A linear mixed model analysis was used to compare IgG and IgM concentrations, neutralising antibody (nAb) titres, leucocyte count, serum amyloid A (SAA), and fibrinogen and globulin concentrations between the groups and time points. (3) Results: The clinical examination was normal in all horses at all time points. There were no significant changes in SAA, globulin, and fibrinogen concentrations and leucocyte count between the groups or time points (all p > 0.05). There was no significant increase in IgG, IgM, or nAb titres in the control group over time (all p > 0.05). In the vaccination group, there was a significant increase in IgG concentration and nAb titres after the second vaccination (p < 0.0001). There was no significant increase in IgM antibodies after the TBEV vaccination (all p > 0.05). One horse in the vaccination group had an IgM concentration above the laboratory reference on day 10. (4) Conclusions: The human TBEV vaccine did not have side effects when used in healthy horses in this study. A significant rise in TBEV-specific IgG antibodies and nAbs after the second vaccination was observed. However, IgG and nAb titres have been shown to decrease within 1 year after vaccination. The results of this study indicate that a vaccination with a human vaccine only induces a mild rise in IgM antibodies and only in previously naive horses. With no significant changes to inflammatory parameters in the vaccinated horses, it remains unclear whether vaccination with the human vaccine leads to protective immunity.