Cell-mediated and humoral immune responses to chlamydial antigens in guinea pigs infected ocularly with the agent of guinea pig inclusion conjunctivitis

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Abstract
Cell-mediated (CMI) and humoral immune responses to chlamydial antigens were investigated in guinea pigs infected with the agent of guinea pig inclusion conjunctivitis (GPIC). Pronounced CMI to the homologous antigen, as well as to 2 other chlamydial antigens, 6BC (Chlamydia psittaci) and LB-1 (C. trachomatis), occurred in all infected animals. CMI to GPIC and to a lesser extent to 6BC and LBI was enhanced with time after infection even without re-inoculation of the infectious agent. Extensive cross-reactions among the 3 chlamydial antigens during the CMI appeared to be due to shared species-specific and group-reactive antigens. Serum antibody response was pronounced and uniform to GPIC; it was less marked to 6BC and LB-1, with fewer cross-reactions than seen in tests for CMI.