RESPONSE OF RAT BRONCHUS-ASSOCIATED LYMPHOID-TISSUE TO LOCAL ANTIGENIC CHALLENGE

  • 1 January 1979
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 60  (5) , 471-482
Abstract
Single doses of antigen [Ag] suspension (alum-precipitated canine serum proteins) were administered intratracheally to SPF [specific pathogen-free] rats. After periods of 1, 2 and 3 wk, rats were killed and their lungs examined histologically. After an initial macrophage and perivascular lymphoid reaction, dose-related increases were found in the amount of bronchus-associated lymphoid tissue (BALT) and in the amount of DNA within BALT cells, indicating increased cell division. Immunoglobulin-containing cells were demonstrated within BALT 3 wk after exposure to Ag. A prominent and extensive bronchial lympho-epithelium was seen overlying BALT follicles in Ag-treated rats, while in control animals the respiratory epithelium overlying BALT was predominantly normal ciliated epithelium. The possible defensive role of BALT in cases of respiratory disease of man and animals is discussed.