Expression of essential B cell genes and immunoglobulin isotypes suggests active development and gene recombination during equine gestation.
Many features of the equine immune system develop during fetal life, yet the naïve or immature immune state of the neonate renders the foal uniquely susceptible to particular pathogens. RT-PCR and immunohistochemical experiments investigated the progressive expression of developmental B cell markers and immunoglobulins in lymphoid tissues from equine fetus, pre-suckle neonate, foal, and adult horses. Serum IgM, IgG isotype, and IgA concentrations were also quantified in pre-suckle foals and adult horses. The expression of essential B cell genes suggests active development and gene recombination during equine gestation, including immunoglobulin isotype switching. The corresponding production of IgM and IgG proteins is detectable in a limited scale at birth. Although the equine neonate humoral response seems competent, B cell activation factors derived from antigen presenting cells and T cells may control critical developmental regulation and immunoglobulin production during the initial months of life.
Tallmadge
Rebecca L
RL
Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA.
McLaughlin
Kristin
K
Secor
Erica
E
Ruano
Diana
D
Matychak
Mary Beth
MB
Flaminio
M Julia B F
MJ
D000818:Animals; D015703:Antigens, CD / Q000276:immunology; D001402:B-Lymphocytes / Q000276:immunology*; D015415:Biomarkers / Q000378:metabolism; D005260:Female; D006736:Horses / Q000235:genetics / Q000276:immunology*; D017578:Immunoglobulin Class Switching; D007074:Immunoglobulin G / Q000097:blood / Q000235:genetics*; D007075:Immunoglobulin M / Q000097:blood / Q000235:genetics*; D011247:Pregnancy; D011270:Pregnancy, Animal / Q000235:genetics / Q000276:immunology*; D012333:RNA, Messenger / Q000096:biosynthesis / Q000235:genetics; D011995:Recombination, Genetic; D013154:Spleen / Q000166:cytology / Q000276:immunology / Q000378:metabolism; D013601:T-Lymphocytes / Q000276:immunology; D014158:Transcription, Genetic
D015703:Antigens, CD; D015415:Biomarkers; D007074:Immunoglobulin G; D007075:Immunoglobulin M; D012333:RNA, Messenger