Effect of lead on immuno response to ribosomal antigen prepared from E. coli in rabbit

The function of immune system among lead exposure was evaluated in the present study using rabbits as experimental animals. Ribosomal antigen was prepared from E. coli and used as an immunogen. Animals were divided into three groups. Echgroup with 15 animals the first group was drenched with 5 mg/kg of lead acetate. The second group was given 10 mg/kg in triple distilled water for a period of 30 days. The third group served as experimental control. Immunization with the prepared ribosomes mixed with Freund's complete adjuvant was given at two doses. The first dose was injected 30 days after exposure. The second dose was given 15 days thereafter. Cellular and humoral immune responses were evaluated. Lead acetate used in these low doses for this period had little effect on the antibody level and also on the phagocytic activity. On the other hand, the effect was clear on cell-mediated immunity and resulted in a reduction in the number of T lymphocytes involved in this activity

Histo-pathological changes after exposure of rabbit to lead

Rabbits were immunized with ribosomal antigens prepared from E. coli and exposed to lead acetate. The histological picture of immunized animal showed immunological response to ribosomal antigens. Hyperplasia with the appearance of germinal centers was noted in lymph nodes and spleen in addition to infiltration of intestine with mononuclear cells. The pathological changes which appeared as a result of exposure to lead were represented by central venous and sinusoidal congestion in the capillary tuft of glomeruli and also in the vessels between proximal convoluted tubules. While in the brain, there was congestion and edema. It is concluded that the effect of lead on the body persists for long time after stoppage of lead exposure, and produced disturbances in immune system