Mucosal Immune Parameters Research Articles

Dietary peppermint (Mentha piperita) powder affects growth performance, hematological indices, skin mucosal immune parameters, and expression of growth and stress-related genes in Caspian roach (Rutilus caspicus).

Peppermint is a popular herbal medicine due to its several pharmaceutical applications. In this study, peppermint powder was used as a feed additive to evaluate growth performance, hematological parameters, protein profile of skin mucus, and immune parameters, as well as growth hormone (GH), insulin-like growth factor (IGF), and 70kDa heat shock protein (HSP70) gene expression in Caspian roach (Rutilus caspicus). The fingerlings (average weight of 2.40 ± 0.12g) were fed with diet containing 0 (control), 2, 3, and 4g/kg peppermint for 8weeks. The addition of peppermint significantly enhanced the growth parameters and decreased the food conversion ratio. Hematological indices of fish fed with peppermint-supplemented diets were significantly different from the control group (P < 0.05). Soluble protein, alkaline phosphatase, and lysozyme enzyme activity in mucus samples showed an incremental trend by increasing the peppermint levels in the diet. Evaluation of mucosal immunity indicated a remarkable difference between the protein profile in treatments fed with peppermint-supplemented diets and the control group. A new protein band (approximately 27kDa) was also found in the skin mucus of fish fed with the diet containing 4g/kg peppermint, and the highest band density was observed in this treatment. The highest IGF and GH gene expression were observed in 4g/kg peppermint treatment. There was a significant difference in HSP70 expression between the fish fed with peppermint powder and the control group (P < 0.05). Overall, the results showed that dietary oral administration of peppermint at 4g/kg of feed can act as a growth promoter and immunostimulant.

Regulation of the microecological state of the lower parts of the female reproductive tract with vitamins

Aim. To study the changes in the microecology of the vagina under the influence of ascorbic acid, α-tocopherol, and retinol acetate.Materials and methods. The number of vaginal lactobacilli and opportunistic bacteria, the concentrations of IL1β, raIL1, INFγ, TGFβ1, lactoferrin and sIgA in vaginal fluids of women with deficiency of ascorbic acid (n = 35) or retinol acetate (n = 35) or α-tocopherol (n = 35) were assessed before and after intravaginal application of these vitamins. The obtained data were compared with those of healthy women without vitamin deficiency (n = 15).Results. An association between deficiency of α-tocopherol, retinol acetate and ascorbic acid with a deficiency of lactoflora, a high frequency of bacterial vaginosis and candidiasis, and proinflammatory changes of the parameters of mucosal immunity has been found. A normalizing effect of all vitamins on the lactoflora of the vagina was identified. The severity of this effect decreased in the following order: α-tocopherol → retinol acetate → ascorbic acid. Retinol acetate caused the increase, while ascorbate and tocopherol caused the reduction in the number of opportunistic microorganisms. The effect of ascorbate was pronounced, but short-term, while the effect of tocopherol was less pronounced, but long-lasting. The use of vitamins affected the condition of mucosal immunity in different directions: ascorbic acid caused an increase in pro-inflammatory changes; on the contrary, α-tocopherol and retinol acetate caused anti-inflammatory changes.Conclusion. Our data on the effects of α-tocopherol, retinol acetate, and ascorbic acid on the microecological state of the vaginal biotope suggest that these vitamins may be considered as regulatory factors for both host cells and microsymbionts.

Immune predictors of oral poliovirus vaccine immunogenicity among infants in South India

Identification of the causes of poor oral vaccine immunogenicity in low-income countries might lead to more effective vaccines. We measured mucosal and systemic immune parameters at the time of vaccination with oral poliovirus vaccine (OPV) in 292 Indian infants aged 6–11 months, including plasma cytokines, leukocyte counts, fecal biomarkers of environmental enteropathy and peripheral blood T-cell phenotype, focused on gut-homing regulatory CD4+ populations. We did not find a distinct immune phenotype associated with OPV immunogenicity, although viral pathogens were more prevalent in stool at the time of immunization among infants who failed to seroconvert (63.9% vs. 45.6%, p = 0.002). Using a machine-learning approach, we could predict seroconversion a priori using immune parameters and infection status with a median 58% accuracy (cross-validation IQR: 50–69%) compared with 50% expected by chance. Better identification of immune predictors of OPV immunogenicity is likely to require sampling of mucosal tissue and improved oral poliovirus infection models.

Inclusion of dietary Ulva ohnoi 5% modulates Solea senegalensis immune response during Photobacterium damselae subsp. piscicida infection

Macroalgae represent valuable sources of functional ingredients for fish diets, and the influence of supplemented aquafeeds on growth performance has been studied for some fish and seaweed species. In the present work, the potential immunomodulation exerted by U. ohnoi (5%) as dietary ingredient was investigated in Senegalese sole. After feeding with the experimental diets for 90 d, fish immune response before and after challenge with Photobacterium damselae subsp. piscicida (Phdp) was assessed. In absence of infection, systemic immune response was not modified by 5% U. ohnoi dietary inclusion for 90 d. Thus, no differences in liver and head kidney immune gene transcription or serum lysozyme, peroxidase, antiprotease and complement activities were observed based on the diet received by Senegalese sole specimens. Regarding mucosal immune parameters, no changes in gene transcription were detected in the skin and gills, whilst only tnf, cd4 and cd8 were significantly up-regulated in the intestine of fish fed with U. ohnoi, compared to the values obtained with control diet. On the contrary, when S. senegalensis specimens were challenged with Phdp, modulation of the immune response consisting in increased transcription of genes encoding complement (c1q4, c3, c9), lysozyme g (lysg), tumor necrosis factor alpha (tnfα) as well as those involved in the antioxidant response (gpx, sodmn) and iron metabolism (ferrm, hamp-1) was observed in the liver of fish fed with U. ohnoi. In parallel, decreased inflammatory cytokine and complement encoding gene transcription was displayed by the spleen of fish receiving the algal diet. Though mortality rates due to Phdp challenge were not affected by the diet received, lower pathogen loads were detected in the liver of soles receiving U. ohnoi diet. Further research to investigate the effects of higher inclusion levels of this seaweed in fish diets, feeding during short periods as wells as to assess the response against other pathogens needs to be carried out.

Effect of early antibiotic intervention on specific bacterial communities and immune parameters in the small intestine of growing pigs fed different protein level diets

Antibiotics are designed to affect gut microbiota and subsequently gut homeostasis. However, limited information exists about short- and long-term effects of early antibiotic intervention (EAI) on gut homeostasis (especially for the small intestine) of pigs following antibiotic withdrawal. We investigated the impact of EAI on specific bacterial communities, microbial metabolites and mucosal immune parameters in the small intestine of later-growth-stage pigs fed with diets differing in CP levels. Eighteen litters of piglets were fed creep feed with or without antibiotics from day 7 to day 42. At day 42, pigs within each group were offered a normal- or low-CP diet. Five pigs per group were slaughtered at days 77 and 120. At day 77, EAI increased Enterobacteriaceae counts in the jejunum and ileum and decreased Bifidobacterium counts in the jejunum and ileum (P < 0.05). Moreover, tryptamine, putrescine, secretory immunoglobulin (Ig) A and IgG concentrations in the ileum and interleukin-10 (IL-10) mRNA and protein levels in the jejunum and ileum were decreased in pigs with EAI (P < 0.05). At day 120, EAI only suppressed Clostridium cluster XIVa counts in the jejunum and ileum (P < 0.05). These results suggest that EAI has a short-term effect on specific bacterial communities, amino acid decarboxylation and mucosal immune parameters in the small intestine (particularly in the ileum). At days 77 and 120, feeding a low-CP diet affected Bifidobacterium, Clostridium cluster IV, Clostridium cluster XIVa and Enterobacteriaceae counts in the jejunum or ileum (P < 0.05). Moreover, feeding a low-CP diet increased the concentrations of Igs in the jejunum and decreased pro-inflammatory cytokines levels in the jejunum and ileum (P < 0.05). At day 120, feeding a low-CP diet increased short-chain fatty acid concentrations, reduced ammonia and spermidine concentrations and up-regulated genes related to barrier function in the jejunum and ileum (P < 0.05). These results suggest that feeding a low-CP diet changes specific bacterial communities and intestinal metabolite concentrations and modifies mucosal immune parameters. These findings contribute to our understanding on the duration of the impact of EAI on gut homeostasis and may provide basis data for nutritional modification in young pigs after antibiotic treatment.

Extract of common mallow (Malvae sylvestris) enhances growth, immunity, and resistance of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) fingerlings against Yersinia ruckeri infection

The dietary effects of a native medicinal plant from Iran, common mallow (Malvae sylvestris), was evaluated on growth performance, innate immune parameters, mucosal immune parameters, and resistance of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) against Yersinia ruckeri. Therefore, 360 fish (initial weight 10.42 ± 0.09 g) were randomly distributed into 12 fiberglass tanks. Experimental diets supplemented with 0 (as control- C), 1% (M1), 3% (M2) and 5% (M3) levels of M. sylvestris flowers extract were fed to the fish based on 3% of body weight for 8 weeks. At the terminal sampling, growth performance, liver and digestive enzymes activities, blood and mucosal immune responses were determined. Results showed that M2 and M3 had greater final weight, weight gain, SGR, survival rate and lower FCR; higher levels of total protein, albumin, globulin, and lower cortisol levels in comparison to control; 5% extract also lowered cholesterol and glucose levels as well as Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) activity. We reported higher values of hematocrit, hemoglobin, Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH), Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV), White Blood Cell (WBC), Red Blood Cell (RBC) and lymphocytes for treated groups. Innate immune responses (Alternative complement activity (ACH50) in M2 and M3 group, total Immunoglobulin (Ig) and lysozyme in M3), mucosal immune parameters (ACH50, total Ig for M2 and M3 group and lysozyme in all treated groups) were enhanced. Activities of digestive enzymes (protease in all treated groups, amylase for 3 and 5%, while lipase only for 5%) and lower activity of liver ALT enzyme in individuals treated with highest dose was observed. Overall results indicated that the extract can positively affect growth performance and immune responses of rainbow trout.

352 Feeding treated wheat straw to weaned pigs improves feed efficiency and impacts mucosal and system immune parameters

Abstract A management challenge on swine farms is the successful weaning of piglets. Recently, the management of weaning has become more challenging with society’s goal to diminish antimicrobial use. Dietary fiber is increasingly thought important for improving the gastrointestinal development and function, health and the growth performance of the young animal. The objective was to evaluate the effects of feeding treated wheat straw (TWC, with acid, heat, and calcium carbonate) to weaned pigs. At 27.1 ± 1.3 d of age, 108 crossbred (PIC 327 x Yorkshire) pigs were weaned and randomly allotted to 3 treatments: 1) control, 2) 5% TWS, and 3) 10% TWS. Treatments were imposed over 3 nursery phases (7, 7 and 14 d, respectively). All diets met or exceed the nutrient requirements of NRC (2012) and were isocaloric within each phase. No antibiotic was fed, and neither were pharmacological amounts of copper or zinc. There were 6 pens (6 pigs per pen) per treatment. Pig gains were maintained, and feed efficiency improved with TWS in the diet (Table 1). Relative to controls, inclusion of TWS tended to increase (P = 0.12) major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II expression in peripheral blood circulating monocytes (PBMC), an index of enhanced antigen presentation to the immune system, which may reflect an enhanced development of immune function. A trend (P = 0.10) for lower serum IgA levels (marker of mucosal immunity) was observed in pigs fed 10% TWS, compared with other treatments. Overall these data suggest that dietary TWS benefited growth performance and influenced mucosal and systemic immune measures which may provide benefits to health.

Comparative study of host-associated and commercial probiotic effects on serum and mucosal immune parameters, intestinal microbiota, digestive enzymes activity and growth performance of roach (Rutilus rutilus caspicus) fingerlings

The study aimed to isolate host-associated probiotic (HAP) lactic acid bacteria from intestine of adult Caspian roach and compare the efficacy of HAP with a commercially available probiotic strain (Pediococcus acidilactici) on the growth and feed utilisation, digestive enzymes and systemic and mucosal immune system of roach fingerling. The HAP strain isolated from roach intestine was Enterococcus faecium strain CGMCC1.2136. The experiment was a simple completely randomized design and lasted for eight weeks. Two hundred and seventy fish with an average weight of 12 g randomly distributed into nine tanks. The trial consisted of three treatments with three respective replications. During the experimental period, fish received basal diet without any bacterial supplementation (as the control group), basal diet enriched with 108 CFU g−1 HAP or 107 CFU g−1 CP. At the end of the experiment, serum immune parameters of those fish fed HAP including alkaline phosphatase activity, total protein content, total immunoglobulin level, lysozyme activity and complement activity (ACH50) were significantly higher that other experimental groups (P < 0.05). Similarly, dietary supplementation of HAP resulted in better mucosal immune parameters in comparison to control group and commercial probiotic administration (P < 0.05). Intestinal heterotrophic bacteria and autochthonous LAB counts of those fish fed HAP were significantly higher than other experimental groups at the end of the experiment as well as 15 days seizing probiotic administrations (P < 0.05). Fish fed with HAP containing diet presented significantly higher amylase, lipase and protease activity in comparison to the CP fed fish and the control group (P < 0.05). Growth indices of those fish fed HAP were significantly higher than other treatments (P < 0.05). The highest carcass protein and ash content along with the lowest body moisture content belonged to those fish received HAP (P < 0.05). In conclusion, the use host-HAP resulted in better immune competence and growth performance and it seems aquaculture sector should probably focus on the development of probiotics isolated from the cultured species instead of using terrestrial probiotics with greatly different requirements and environmental conditions.

Effects of dietary heat-killed Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain VSG2 on immune functions, antioxidant efficacy, and disease resistance in Cyprinus carpio

A probiotic strain of Pseudomonas aeruginosa VSG2 was previously isolated from the gut of Indian major carp Labeo rohita. But, its efficacy as a heat-inactivated probiotic on the immune response of fish remains unexplored. Thus, present study investigated the effect of heat-killed P. aeruginosa VSG2 (HK-PA) supplementation on the immune function, digestive enzymatic activities, and antioxidant status of Cyprinus carpio. Moreover, the effect of HK-PA supplementation on the susceptibility of C. carpio to Aeromonas hydrophila challenge was also evaluated. To do so, diets containing five different concentrations of HK-PA (mg kg−1) (0 [basal diet], 10 [PA10], 20 [PA20], 30 [PA30], and 40 mg kg−1 [PA40]) were fed to fish for 8 weeks. The results revealed that immune-related factors, such as lysozyme, protein level, alkaline phosphatase, and alternative complement pathway levels increased in fish fed with HK-PA, but differences were significant in PA20–PA40 compared to the control. The immunoglobulin level was higher (p < .05) in PA30, compared to the control. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione, glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and myeloperoxidase levels significantly increased in serum or skin mucus of fish fed with HK-PA. Accordingly, malondialdehyde levels decreased in fish fed with HK-PA. Among intestinal enzymatic activities, protease activity was higher in the HK-PA fed groups compared to the control. Moreover, mRNA expression of antioxidant genes (SOD, GPx, and catalase) significantly increased in the liver of PA20–PA40. Fish in the PA30 exhibited the highest relative post-challenge survival (71.54 ± 5.37%) against A. hydrophila infection. Overall, dietary administration of HK-PA at 30 mg kg−1 (PA30) for 8 weeks improved (p < .05) the skin mucosal and serum immune parameters, strengthened antioxidant capacity, enhanced intestinal enzymatic activities, and increased the resistance against a pathogen challenge. The heat-killed P. aeruginosa VSG2 represents a promising dietary supplement for carps in aquaculture.

The effects of Coriandrum sativum L. as feed additive on mucosal immune parameters, antioxidant defence and, immune‐related genes expression in zebrafish ( Danio rerio )

This study investigates the effects of Coriander (C. sativum) on the growth, antioxidant, and immune-associated genes and serum and mucosal immune parameters in zebrafish (D. rerio). The experimental fish were treated with 0 [control], 5, 10 and 20 g/kg coriander supplemented diets for 8 weeks. The results revealed that coriander remarkably increased mucosal immune parameters (the total Immunoglobulin, protease and lysozyme activity). The highest levels of the measured parameters were noticed in 20 g/kg CP treatment. Also, the zebrafish fed 20 g/kg coriander powder showed significantly higher expression gene for lysozyme and TNF-alpha. The same results were noticed in case of IL-1B gene expression. In case of sod gene expression there was no significant difference between treatments. However, regarding cat gene expression, significant difference was noticed between 20 g/kg CP treatment and other groups. In addition, no significant changes were observed between coriander fed zebrafish and control treatments regarding GH gene expression level, although IGF-I remarkable up-regulate in 20 g/kg coriander powder treatment compared other groups. In conclusion, it can be proposed that dietary Coriander powder can improve mucosal immune parameters and immune and antioxidant genes expression.

Effects of bioactive substance from turmeric on growth, skin mucosal immunity and antioxidant factors in common carp, Cyprinus carpio

Present study evaluated the effects of curcumin, the principal curcuminoid of turmeric, on Cyprinus carpio growth, skin mucosal immune parameters, immune-related gene expression, and susceptibility to pathogen challenge. Diets containing four various concentrations of curcumin (g Kg−1): 0 g [basal diet], 5 g [T5], 10 g [T10], and 15 g [T15] were fed to the carp (average weight: 16.37 g) for 8 weeks. Growth parameters were analysed at 4 and 8 weeks post-feeding. Skin mucosal immune responses and expression were examined in 8 weeks post-feeding. Growth performance was significantly higher in T10 and T15, with final weight gain of 102.26 ± 2.31 g and specific growth rate of 3.24 ± 0.37, respectively. The lowest feed conversion ratio (2.35 ± 0.16) was recorded in T15 than in the control (P < 0.05). Among the skin mucosal immune parameters examined, lysozyme (36.8 ± 4.03 U mL−1), total immunoglobulin (6.74 ± 0.5 mg mL−1), protein level (18.7 ± 1.62 mg mL−1), alkaline phosphatase (96.37 ± 6.3 IU L−1), and protease activity (9.47 ± 0.82%) were significantly higher in T15, while the peroxidase activity was higher in T10 (10.24 ± 0.9 U mg−1 protein). Further, lysozyme, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities were measured in serum and found to be higher in T10 or T15 than in the control (P < 0.05). However, malondialdehyde level decreased significantly in T10 and T15. Furthermore, antioxidant genes (SOD, CAT, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2) and anti-inflammatory cytokine Interleukin-10 were upregulated in the head kidney, intestine, and hepatopancreas of fish in T10 and T15. Conversely, expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, tumour necrosis factor-alpha), signalling molecule NF-κBp65 were down-regulated in the tested tissues of T10 and T15. Expression of Toll-like receptor 22 (TLR22) was down regulated in head-kidney and intestine of T15. Fish from T15 exhibited significantly higher relative post-challenge survival (69.70%) against Aeromonas hydrophila challenge. Results of the present study suggest that dietary supplements of curcumin at 15 g Kg−1can significantly improve the growth performance, skin mucosal and serum antioxidant parameters, and strengthen the immunity of C. carpio. Therefore, curcumin represents a promising food additive for carps in aquaculture.

The influence of Farmatan®and Flimabend®on the mucosal immunity of broiler chicken

The aim of the present study was to monitor selected parameters of mucosal immunity in jejunum and ileum (immunoglobulin A [IgA], mucin 2 [MUC-2], and pro-inflammatory cytokines) in commercial broiler farm chicken after treatment with flubendazole (Flimabend®) and natural extract from chestnut wood (Farmatan®). A total of 24 forty-day-old Kalimero-Super Master hybrid chickens were divided into 4 groups (n = 6): the Fli group received Flimabend® per os, 100 mg/g suspension in 1.43 mg of active substance/kg body weight during 7 d of experiment; the Far group received Farmatan®per os at 0.2% concentration for 6 h/d during 5 d (experimental d 3 to 7); the Far + Fli group received a combination of doses administered in the same way as for the first two groups; and the C group represented control with no active substance administration. The concentrations of secretory IgA (sIgA) and MUC-2 and relative expression of selected immune parameters were evaluated. Our results show strong suppressive effect of the Farmatan® and Flimabend® combination on relative expression of IL-1β and IL-18 in selected parts of the intestine. On the other hand, administration of natural extract from selected chestnut wood (Farmatan®) increased expression of total IgA as well as concentration of sIgA in the studied parts of the chicken intestine. Moreover, expression and concentration of MUC-2 was positively affected by addition of Farmatan®. In contrast, 7-d administration of Flimabend® resulted in upregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines and decrease in IgA and MUC-2 gene expression. In conclusion, for maintenance of mucosal immunity via activation of IgA and mucin production, the long-term preventive use of Farmatan® is a suitable choice.

Mucosal cell populations may contribute to peripheral immune abnormalities in HIV-infected subjects introducing cART with moderate immune-suppression.

HIV infection causes the progressive depletion of CD4+ T-lymphocytes and profound modifications of T-cell homeostasis, which persist despite virologically-suppressive treatment and have been linked to a worse clinical outcome. Enduring alterations of the gastrointestinal tract may represent the underlying pathogenic mechanisms of these phenomena. Twenty-six HIV-infected subjects were assessed over a 12-month period following the introduction of antiretroviral therapy. 18 uninfected individuals were enrolled as controls. Parameters of peripheral T-cell homeostasis (activation, maturation), gastrointestinal function (microbial translocation, gut inflammation, fecal microbiota composition) and mucosal immunity (CD4+CCR6+CD161+, CD4+CCR9+α4β7+, stem cell memory CD4+/CD8+ T-cells) were assessed. CD4+CCR6+CD161+ cells were depleted in HIV-infected untreated subjects and maintained significantly lower levels compared to controls, despite the introduction of effective antiviral treatment. The frequency of gut-homing CD4+CCR9+α4β7+ cells was also impaired in untreated infection and correlated with the HIV RNA load and CD4+HLADR+CD38+; during therapy, we observed a contraction of this pool in the peripheral blood and the loss of its correlation with antigenic exposure/immune activation. A partial correction of the balance between stem cell memory pools and T-cell homeostasis was registered following treatment. In HIV-infected subjects with moderate immune-suppression, antiretroviral therapy has a marginal impact on mucosal immune populations which feature distinctive kinetics in the periphery, possibly reflecting their diverse recruitment from the blood to the mucosa. The persistent defects in mucosal immunity may fuel peripheral T-cell abnormalities through diverse mechanisms, including the production of IL-17/IL-22, cellular permissiveness to infection and regulation of T-lymphocyte maturation.

Enrichment of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) fingerlings diet with Psidium guajava: The effects on cutaneous mucosal and serum immune parameters and immune related genes expression

The present study aimed at evaluation of possible effects of Psidium guajava as immunostimulant on mucosal and serum immunity, as well as related genes expression in common carp (Cyprinus carpio) fingerlings. In an eight weeks feeding trial, fish were fed with experimental diets containing guava leaf powder [GLP] (0, 0.25, 0.5 and 1%). Then, skin mucus and serum immune parameters (total Ig, alkaline phosphatase activity, lysozyme activity), as well as immune related genes expression (TNF-alpha, IL1b, IL8) were measured. All levels of GLP inclusion in the diet brought about the increase in total Ig in the serum, while in the mucus only the highest level of GLP was effective. No significant differences were observed in mucus alkanine phosphatase activity, while fish fed 0.25% of GLP had noticeably higher serum lysozyme activity. The mucus total protein electrophoretic pattern revealed some differences between the control and the treated fish. Two high MW bands were present in the control group but not in the treated groups. Three bands with a low MW comprised between 35 and 17 mw were noticed in GLP fed carps and not in the control. Gene expression studies revealed no noticeable alterations in TNF-alpha gene between treated fish and control. However, the level of expression of IL-8 was strongly upregulated in fish fed 0.5 and 1% of GLP. Also, feeding on 0.5% of GLP significantly upregulated IL1b gene expression. Evaluation of growth performance revealed improved performance parameters in GLP treated groups. These results confirmed possible immunomodulatory and beneficial effects of GLP on common carp fingerlings.

Intestinal Immunity to Poliovirus Following Sequential Trivalent Inactivated Polio Vaccine/Bivalent Oral Polio Vaccine and Trivalent Inactivated Polio Vaccine–only Immunization Schedules: Analysis of an Open-label, Randomized, Controlled Trial in Chilean Infants

BackgroundIdentifying polio vaccine regimens that can elicit robust intestinal mucosal immunity and interrupt viral transmission is a key priority of the polio endgame.MethodsIn a 2013 Chilean clinical trial (NCT01841671) of trivalent inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) and bivalent oral polio vaccine (bOPV; targeting types 1 and 3), infants were randomized to receive IPV-bOPV-bOPV, IPV-IPV-bOPV, or IPV-IPV-IPV at 8, 16, and 24 weeks of age and challenged with monovalent oral polio vaccine type 2 (mOPV2) at 28 weeks. Using fecal samples collected from 152 participants, we investigated the extent to which IPV-bOPV and IPV-only immunization schedules induced intestinal neutralizing activity and immunoglobulin A against polio types 1 and 2.ResultsOverall, 37% of infants in the IPV-bOPV groups and 26% in the IPV-only arm had detectable type 2–specific stool neutralization after the primary vaccine series. In contrast, 1 challenge dose of mOPV2 induced brisk intestinal immune responses in all vaccine groups, and significant rises in type 2–specific stool neutralization titers (P < .0001) and immunoglobulin A concentrations (P < 0.0001) were measured 2 weeks after the challenge. In subsidiary analyses, duration of breastfeeding also appeared to be associated with the magnitude of polio-specific mucosal immune parameters measured in infant fecal samples.ConclusionsTaken together, these results underscore the concept that mucosal and systemic immune responses to polio are separate in their induction, functionality, and potential impacts on transmission and, specifically, provide evidence that primary vaccine regimens lacking homologous live vaccine components are likely to induce only modest, type-specific intestinal immunity.

Mucosal immune parameters, immune and antioxidant defence related genes expression and growth performance of zebrafish (Danio rerio) fed on Gracilaria gracilis powder

In the present study zebrafish (Danio rerio) has been used as model organism to establish the effects of dietary supplementation of Gracilaria gracilis powder (GP) on mucosal and innate immune parameters, antioxidant enzymes, and growth. In order to establish these features, zebrafish were fed for eight weeks with experimental diets containing different levels of Red algae, 0.25, 0.5 and 1% of GP; also, a group was fed with control diet. At the end of the experimental period the antioxidant superoxide dismutase and catalase (SOD, CAT) genes expression, interleukin 1 beta (il-1β), lysozyme (LYZ), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) for immune-related genes expression, total immunoglobulin (Ig), total protein, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity for innate immune parameters, and growth performance have been established. The GP dietary supplementation showed differences in SOD and CAT expression in zebrafish whole body respect to the control group. Non-signifcant differences were noticed among the different groups in case of TNF-α, LYZ and il-1expression (P > 0.05). The skin mucus total Ig and total protein in the group fed on 1% of GP were significantly higher respect to control group (P < 0.05). 0.25 and 0.5% of GP dietary supplementation significantly enhanced skin mucus ALP activity levels (P < 0.05). No significant differences were recorded for growth performances among groups (P > 0.05). The results obtained in the present study revealed that G. gracilis could be takes in account as fishes diet supplementation for its immune system stimulants effects.

Modulation of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) cutaneous mucosal immune responses following anesthesia: A comparative study on different anesthetic agents

The present study investigated the possible effects of different anesthetic agents including MS222 (50 ppm), 2-Phenoxyethanol (2-PE) (0.2 mL L−1) and clove oil (25 ppm), on cutaneous mucosal immune parameters in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). The induction and recovery times for each anesthetic agent were assessed. Also, the immune parameters were measured in skin mucus, 1 and 24 h post anesthesia. No significant difference was observed among treatments at 1 h post-anesthesia except for bactericidal and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activities which was significantly enhanced in fish exposed to 2-PE compared to other anesthetics. At 24 h post-anesthesia, most of the skin mucosal immune parameters were increased upon exposure to clove oil but decreased following exposure to 2-PE. However, no significant change was noticed after MS222 exposure. These results demonstrated that the anesthetics type should be considered to avoid possible immunosuppression in farmed fish. Furthermore, the present results could be useful for better understanding of alterations in cutaneous mucosal immunity in response to chemical stressors such as anesthetic agents.

Effects of dietary inclusion of Moringa oleifera leaves on growth and some systemic and mucosal immune parameters of seabream.

The effect of the dietary incorporation of drumstick, Moringa oleifera, leaf meal (MOL; 0, 5, 10 and 15%) on the growth, feed utilization, some skin mucus and systemic immune parameters and intestinal immune-related gene expression in gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata) specimens. The experiment lasted 4weeks. The results revealed that MOL can be incorporated in S. aurata diet up to 10% with no significant negative effect on growth and feed utilization. However, there was a significant decrease with MOL at a level of 15% after 2weeks of feeding. The systemic immune status of fish fed with the different levels of MOL showed an improvement in head kidney leucocyte phagocytosis, respiratory burst and peroxidase activities. Also, serum humoral components, including protease, ACH50 and lysozyme activities and IgM level, increased with MOL inclusion especially at the 5% level. MOL at 5% improved skin-mucosal immunity such as protease, antiprotease, peroxidase and lysozyme activities. Moreover, the feeding of MOL revealed an upregulation of the intestinal mucosal immunity genes (lyso and c3), tight junction proteins (occludin and zo-1) and anti-inflammatory cytokines (tgf-β) with a downregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokine (tnf-α). Therefore, it is recommended to incorporate MOL in S. aurata diets at a level of 5% for the best immune status or 10% for the high growth performance and acceptable immune surveillance. Graphical abstract ᅟ.

Effects of dietary glucose and starch levels on the growth, apparent digestibility, and skin-associated mucosal non-specific immune parameters in juvenile blunt snout bream (Megalobrama amblycephala)

A 10-week feeding trial was performed to evaluate the effects of different types and levels of carbohydrates in growth performance, apparent digestibility coefficients and skin-associated mucosal non-specific immune parameters in blunt snout bream (Megalobrama amblycephala). Fish were randomly fed four diets containing two carbohydrates (glucose and starch) diets and two carbohydrates levels (330 and 440 g kg−1). High carbohydrate levels remarkably increased the weight gain rate (WGR), apparent digestibility of dry matters, protein and carbohydrates, body crud protein content, plasma levels of aspartate transaminase (AST), and skin-associated mucosal levels of immunoglobulin M (IgM), HDL cholesterol, lysozyme (LZM), advanced the transcriptions of mucin 2 (Muc2), mucin 5b (Muc5b) and apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I), whereas the opposite was true for feed conversion ratio (FCR), plasma levels of IgM, skin-associated mucosal levels of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) and β-Defensins, and the transcriptions of heat shock protein 60 (Hsp60). In addition, carbohydrate types of glucose remarkably increased the survival rate, apparent digestibility of dry matters, protein and carbohydartes, body crud ash, plasma levels of total protein (TP), globulin (GLB), immunoglobulin M (IgM), complement C3 and complement C4 and the transcriptions of Muc5b. Whereas the carbohydrate types of starch remarkably increased viscerosomatic index (VSI), hepatosomatic index (HSI), condition factor (CF), abdominal fat percentage (AFP), apparent digestibility of liquid, advanced the transcriptions of Muc2, apoA-I and heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70). Significant interactions between different types and levels of dietary carbohydrates were also observed in WGR, apparent digestibility of dry matters, protein and liquid, body crud ash, plasma levels of TP, albumin (ALB) and AST, skin-associated mucosal levels of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) and β-Defensins, and the transcriptions of Muc2 and Muc5b. Our results indicate that inclusion of high level of glucose in the diet of blunt snout bream could improve growth performance, nonspecific immunity, and increase the efficiency of protein, which is suggesting that high level of glucose could be used in feed production. However, the proportion of the specific formula of glucose using in feed needs further study.

The effects singular or combined administration of fermentable fiber and probiotic on mucosal immune parameters, digestive enzyme activity, gut microbiota and growth performance of Caspian white fish (Rutilus frisii kutum) fingerlings

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of single or combined administration of dietary fermentable fiber (Vitacel®) and probiotic PrimaLac® on mucosal immune parameters, digestive enzyme activity, gut microbiota and growth performance of Caspian white fish (Rutilus frisii kutum) fingerlings. Fish were transferred to laboratory, acclimatized for two weeks and then fish (0.56 ± 0.026 g) were allocated into 12 tanks (30 fish per tank). Triplicate groups were fed a basal diet (Control) or basal diet supplemented with fermentable fiber [Vitacel®] (FF), probiotic [PrimaLac®] (P) and combined fermentable fiber and probiotic (FF + P). At the end of feeding trial, growth performance and feed utilization parameters were significantly (P < 0.05) improved in FF, P and FF + P treatments compared control group. Evaluation of digestive enzyme activity revealed significant (P < 0.05) increase of lipase activity in fish fed supplemented diet. However, amylase, protease and alkaline phosphatase were significantly higher (P < 0.05) only in P and FF + P treatments. Furthermore, total autochthonous intestinal microbiota and autochthonous LAB levels significantly increased in fish fed supplemented diet (P < 0.05). Also, inclusion of FF, P and FF + P in Caspian white fish diet remarkably increased skin mucus immune parameters compared control group (P < 0.05). These results indicate that singular or combined administration of FF and P can be considered as a beneficial dietary supplement for early stages of Caspian white fish (Rutilus fresii kutumn) culture.