Cross-protective efficacy of immuno-stimulatory recombinant Brugia malayi protein HSP60 against the Leishmania donovani in BALB/c mice

Coinfection of Leishmania with bacteria, viruses, protozoans, and nematodes alter the immune system of the host, thereby influencing the disease outcomes. Here, we have determined the immunogenic property and protective efficacy of the cross-reactive molecule HSP60 of filarial parasite B. malayi against the L. donovani in BALB/c mice. Parasitological parameters results showed a significant decrease in the parasite burden (similar to 59%; P < 0.001) and also a substantial increase in the delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) response (P < 0.001) in mice immunized with 10 mu g of rBmHSP60. Protection against L. donovani in mice immunized with rBmHSP60 resulted from activation of the T cells, which is characterized by higher levels of nitric oxide (NO) production, enhanced cell proliferation, higher levels (expression and release) of IFN- y, TNF- a, and IL-12, also, higher production of IgG and IgG2a antibodies. This strong Thl immune response creates an inflammatory domain for L. donovani and protects the host from VL.

Automated summary

This study demonstrates that immunization with cross-reactive molecule HSP60 of filarial parasite B. malayi in BALB/c mice enhances the immune response, resulting in a significant decrease in parasite burden, and a strong Th1 immune response which protects the host from Visceral Leishmaniasis.