IMMUNOSTIMULATING EFFECTS OF PROTEIN-A IN IMMUNOSUPPRESSED AFLATOXIN-INTOXICATED RATS

Aflatoxin B-1, the potent carcinogenic compound produced by the Asperg illus flavus group of fungi on food and feed, induces immunosuppressiv e effects in rodents. In this communication, we report an immunomodula tory approach to abrogate aflatoxin B-1-induced immunotoxicity in rats using protein A of Staphylococcus aureus Cowan 1. We have earlier dem onstrated that protein A can protect the animals from toxicities induc ed by a number of drugs, chemicals and toxins. In the present study va rious combinations of aflatoxin B-1 exposure and protein A treatment i n animals were used. It was observed that protein A could provide prot ection to animals from aflatoxin B-1-induced immunotoxicity, as measur ed by a battery of tests assessing cell-mediated immunity (CMI) profil e of the host. Various parameters showing suppression of CMI following aflatoxin B-1 exposure were reverted back towards normalcy in protein A-treated animals. It is concluded that protein A may prove to be a u seful agent to protect the host from aflatoxin immunotoxicity, in view of its stimulatory effects on various immune functions even after the ir initial depression due to aflatoxin B-1.