The saliva of vector arthropods contains factors that inhibit hemostatic responses in their vertebrate hosts. However, less is known about the effects of vector saliva on the host’s immune responses. We have investigated the effects of Aedes aegytpi salivary gland extract (SGE) on macrophage effector functions in vitro using a J774A.1 murine cell line. The production of IL-12, IL-1, IL-6, and TNF-a by LPS stimulated macrophages was markedly reduced with increased concentrations of SGE. On the other hand, preliminary experiments with SGE equivalent to up to 1 salivary gland pair/well indicate no effect on LPS-stimulated NO secretion, presentation of MHC class I and II, or phagocytic activity. Effects on PGE2 and cAMP production will also be presented.
Species 1: Diptera Culicidae Aedes aegypti (yellow fever mosquito)
Keywords: blood feeding, immunomodulation
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