Abstract
INTRODUCTION:
We evaluated IL-10, IL-2 and regulatory T cells (Treg), in response to ovalbumin (OA), in offspring from schistosomotic mouse mothers.
METHODS:
We used animals born (BIM) or suckled (SIM) from infected mothers; and mice born/suckled from infected (BSIM) or non-infected mothers (CONTROL). After OA+adjuvant immunization, spleen cells were cultured, with or without OA, and doubly marked for cytometry.
RESULTS:
BIM showed fewer CD4+/IL-2+ and more B220+/IL-10+ cells, whereas the SIM group showed increased Treg frequency. BSIM had fewer B220+/IL-10+ and Treg cells.
CONCLUSIONS:
Separately, gestation or nursing induced immunosuppressive cells in infected mothers, but improved anti-OA immunity when combined.
Keywords:
Maternal schistosomiasis; Adult offspring; Immunomodulation