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

ABSTRACT

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