Delayed hypersensitivity response in mice immunized with non-viable promastigotes of Leishmania mexicana
Pérez, H.A.; de la Rosa, M.
Revista Latinoamericana de Microbiologia 28(1): 39-46
1986
ISSN/ISBN: 0187-4640 PMID: 3738284 Document Number: 284665
Delayed hypersensitivity responses (DHR) could be induced in outbred, NMRI mice, vaccinated with dead promastigotes of Leishmania mexicana. Optimal conditions regarding immunization route, sensitizing dose as well as challenging dose were established. Following sensitization with optimal doses of parasites, the magnitude of the response was similar in mice given subcutaneous and intravenous sensitization. However, large number of parasites which suppressed DHR when given intravenously, stimulated optimal responses in animals subcutaneously (SC) immunized. Moreover, high doses of antigen which inhibited responses were given SC into the footpad, stimulated optimal responses if administered SC into the tail base. The time course of the DHR after subcutaneous sensitization revealed optimal sensitization-challenge responses between the 7th and 14th day of sensitization. Thereafter, responses gradually declined. Delayed hypersensitivity responses from mice SC sensitized with L. mexicana and receiving. .beta.-1,3-glucan as an adjuvant, were markedly increased Strong DHR occurred when mice sensitized with L. mexicana were given a heterologous challenge with either L. mexicana amazonensis, Leishmania braziliensis or Leishmania garnhami.