Immune parameters of immunised cod (Gadus morhua L.)

The immune response of cod (Gadus morhua L.) is unusual in that specific an tibody response is limited or absent. In the present study cod was immunise d with haptenated and non-haptenated protein antigen at two different tempe ratures and the antibody response monitored over a period of 18 months. Oth er humoral parameters of immunological importance were also analysed, namel y total immunoglobulin concentration, anti-protease and spontaneous haemoly tic activity. No specific antibody response was detected but increased acti vity of non-specific anti-TNP antibodies was observed 10-12 weeks after imm unisation, irrespective of the antigen used. This antibody activity was att ributed to the adjuvant used (FCA) and did not cross react with other antig ens tested. Other parameters were probably not influenced by the immunisati on but seasonal fluctuations were indicated. The immunoglobulin level appea red to peak in August-September and the anti-protease activity and the haem olytic activity in October-January. (C) 2001 Academic Press.