How T. brucei Infection Affects B Cell Development in Mice
Author Information
Author(s): Bockstal Viki, Guirnalda Patrick, Caljon Guy, Goenka Radhika, Telfer Janice C., Frenkel Deborah, Radwanska Magdalena, Magez Stefan, Black Samuel J.
Primary Institution: Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts, United States of America
Hypothesis
T. brucei infection compromises the humoral immune defense system by affecting B cell development and maturation.
Conclusion
T. brucei infection leads to a significant reduction in B cell precursor numbers and induces apoptosis in transitional B cells, impairing the host's ability to produce antibodies.
Supporting Evidence
- T. brucei infection induces a more than 95% reduction in B cell precursor numbers in the bone marrow.
- Infection leads to significant increases in early B cell populations in the spleen but final maturation is impaired.
- Transitional B cells undergo apoptosis during T. brucei infection, preventing the replenishment of mature B cell compartments.
Takeaway
When mice get infected with T. brucei, their bodies have a hard time making new B cells, which are important for fighting off infections.
Methodology
The study used a C57BL/6 T. brucei AnTat 1.1 mouse model and multicolor flow cytometry to analyze B cell development and maturation during infection.
Limitations
The study is based on a mouse model, which may not fully represent the human condition.
Participant Demographics
C57BL/6 mice, both male and female, aged 7-9 weeks.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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