Gamma interferon as a crucial host defense against Rickettsia conorii in vivo

H. Li, T. R. Jerrells, G. L. Spitalny, D. H. Walker

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

48 Scopus citations

Abstract

Gamma interferon (IFN-γ) plays an important role as a host defense in rickettsial infection. Swiss Webster mice, which are resistant to Rickettsia conorii (Malish 7 strain) infection, were treated with a monoclonal antibody against mouse IFN-γ. When the antibody-treated mice were inoculated with 12 50% tissue culture infective doses of R. conorii, the mortality was 47% and the morbidity was 100%. None of the control mice, which received the same dose of R. conorii, died or became ill. The enumeration of rickettsiae in organs by direct immunofluorescence in paraffin sections demonstrated higher quantities of rickettsiae in the spleen and liver of IFN-γ-depleted mice as compared with those of the infected controls. The kinetic analysis of IFN-γ levels in sera showed depletion in the treated mice. These results indicate that IFN-γ plays an important role as a host defense in the early stage of rickettsial infection. Survival of some mice despite continued treatment with antibody to IFN-γ suggests that other immune mechanisms may also be important.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)1252-1255
Number of pages4
JournalInfection and immunity
Volume55
Issue number5
StatePublished - 1987
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Parasitology
  • Microbiology
  • Immunology
  • Infectious Diseases

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Gamma interferon as a crucial host defense against Rickettsia conorii in vivo'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this