Preliminary evaluation of LAM-IFA as an immunomodulator incalves: impact on immune profiles and PPD skin test reactivity
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.11606/issn.1678-4456.bjvras.2026.238981Keywords:
Lipoarabinomannan, Immunomodulation, Calves, Veterinary vaccine, Cellular immunityAbstract
This study evaluated the immunomodulatory effects and safety of Lipoarabinomannan (LAM) from Mycobacterium avium subsp. avium emulsified in Incomplete Freund’s Adjuvant (IFA) in calves, focusing on its potential interference with official bovine tuberculosis diagnostic tests. Holstein calves (n = 3 per group) were immunized with IFA or LAM-IFA, co-administered with Dog Red Blood Cells (DRBC). Clinical, hematological, and biochemical parameters were monitored. ELISA, agglutination, and lymphoproliferation assays evaluated specific humoral and cellular responses. The single intradermal tuberculin test (PPD) was performed to assess diagnostic interference. The LAM IFA formulation was well tolerated in this limited cohort, with no adverse clinical effects or significant alterations in hematological and biochemical parameters observed (P > 0.05). While natural antibody levels and non-specific cellular responses remained stable, LAM-IFA significantly modulated the specific response to the reporter antigen, showing decreased specific IgG2 isotypes (P < 0.001) and a tendency toward higher lymphoproliferation. Notably, no reactivity to the PPD test was detected, providing a promising but preliminary observation regarding the lack of interference with tuberculosis diagnosis under these conditions. These preliminary findings suggest that LAM-IFA is a potential immunomodulator for cattle that enhances Th1-related responses without compromising clinical safety. Further research in larger cohorts is required to confirm these observations and the lack of diagnostic interference.
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