Pablo Gomes Noleto

Adjuvant and immunostimulatory effects of a D-galactose-binding lectin from Synadenium carinatum latex (ScLL) in the mouse model of vaccination against neosporosis

Vaccination is an important control measure for neosporosis that is caused by a coccidian parasite, Neospora caninum, leading to abortion and reproductive disorders in cattle and serious economic impacts worldwide. A D-galactose-binding lectin from Synadenium carinatum latex (ScLL) was recently described by our group with potential immunostimulatory and adjuvant effects in the leishmaniasis model. In this study, we evaluated the adjuvant effect of ScLL in immunization of mice against neosporosis. First, we investigated in vitro cytokine production by dendritic cells stimulated with Neospora lysate antigen (NLA), ScLL or both. Each treatment induced TNF-α, IL-6, IL-10 and IL-12 production in a dose-dependent manner, with synergistic effect of NLA plus ScLL. Next, four groups of C57BL/6 mice were immunized with NLA + ScLL, NLA, ScLL or PBS. The kinetics of antibody response showed a predominance of IgG and IgG1 for NLA + ScLL group, whereas IgG2a response was similar between NLA + ScLL and NLA groups. Ex vivo cytokine production by mouse spleen cells showed the highest IFN-γ/IL-10 ratio in the presence of NLA stimulation for mice immunized with NLA + ScLL and the lowest for those immunized with ScLL alone. After parasite challenge, mice immunized with NLA + ScLL or ScLL alone presented higher survival rates (70-80%) and lower brain parasite burden as compared to PBS group, but with no significant changes in morbidity and inflammation scores. In conclusion, ScLL combined with NLA was able to change the cytokine profile induced by the antigen or lectin alone for a Th1-biased immune response, resulting in high protection of mice challenged with the parasite, but with low degree of inflammation. Both features may be important to prevent congenital neosporosis, since protection and low inflammatory response are necessary events to guide towards a successful pregnancy.

Biochemical profile of polo horses in training phase and those players of official competition

Training is essential to prepare the body for intense changes occurring in athletic performance. The effect of training depends on the duration, type, frequency, and intensity of athletic training. The aim of this study was to evaluate the profile of proteins, metabolites, minerals, and enzymes of polo horses in training and those that participate regularly in official competitions. Blood samples were collected from 82 thoroughbred horses. A single collection was performed in the morning, before training the horses. They were divided into two groups: group 1 consisted of training horses, which have not yet participated in polo, whereas group 2 consisted of professional horses that regularly participated in the sport. Each sample was analyzed for levels of albumin, calcium, total cholesterol, creatinine, alkaline phosphatase, phosphorus, gamma glutamyl transferase, total protein, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, triglycerides, HDL, urea, and magnesium. Every element analyzed was within the normal physiological limits. By comparison of the two groups, it was statistically significant for lactate, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, gamma glutamyl transferase, urea, creatinine, phosphorus, and potassium. Biochemical variation was observed between groups 1 and 2, it was concluded that this was relative to the physical condition of each animal.