IFN‐γ and Delayed‐Type Hypersensitivity are Associated with Cutaneous Leishmaniasis in Vervet Monkeys following Secondary Rechallenge with Leishmania major

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Abstract
IFN‐γ levels and delayed‐type hypersensitivity (DIM) responses were evaluated in vervet monkeys, following secondary infection with leishmania major (L. major). The animals had previously been vaccinated with leishmanial antigen, exposed to a primary infection and allowed to self‐cure. Supernatants of peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) cultures, stimulated with either L. major antigen or Concanavalin A (Con A), were examined for the presence of IFN‐γ in a double sandwich enzyme‐linked immunosorbent ASSAY (ELISA). Significant levels of IFN‐γ were detected during active disease and following Self‐cure in both antigen and Con A supernatants Higher levels of IFN‐y were, however, present during active disease as compared with after self‐cure. Positive and strong DTH responses were elicited in all experimental animals, following intradermal injection of fixed promastigotes (5×107/animal) before rechallenge, during active infection and following self‐cure. Again, strongest DTH responses were obtained during active infection as compared with the other sampling pointThere was a correlation between IFN‐γ levels and DTH responses. It was concluded that IFN‐γ secretion and positive DTH responses are associated with secondary L. major infection and represent specific immunological correlates of protection in this disease model.

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