Host Immune Responses of Pigeons Infected with H5N1 Avian Influenza Viruses
Author Information
Author(s): Hayashi Tsuyoshi, Hiromoto Yasuaki, Chaichoune Kridsada, Patchimasiri Tuangthong, Chakritbudsabong Warunya, Prayoonwong Natanan, Chaisilp Natnapat, Wiriyarat Witthawat, Parchariyanon Sujira, Ratanakorn Parntep, Uchida Yuko, Saito Takehiko
Primary Institution: Thailand-Japan Zoonotic Diseases Collaborating Center (ZDCC), Kasetklang, Chatuchak, Bangkok, Thailand
Hypothesis
To assess host responses of pigeons against HPAIV infection by comparing lethality, viral distribution, and mRNA expression of immune-related genes.
Conclusion
Pigeon04 replicated more efficiently in the lungs compared to T.sparrow05 but did not induce excessive host cytokine expressions.
Supporting Evidence
- Pigeon04 induced higher mRNA expressions of immune-related genes compared to T.sparrow05.
- 25% of pigeons died within 2 weeks, suggesting environmental stress may have contributed to mortality.
- Both viruses could cause systemic infection in pigeons but Pigeon04 was more efficient in replication.
Takeaway
The study looked at how two types of bird flu viruses affect pigeons, finding that one virus spreads better but doesn't make the pigeons very sick.
Methodology
Pigeons were inoculated with two H5N1 HPAIVs, and their immune responses were assessed through viral titration and quantitative real-time PCR analysis of immune-related genes.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the controlled laboratory environment and the stress of captivity on the pigeons.
Limitations
The study was limited by environmental stress factors affecting the pigeons, which may have influenced mortality rates.
Participant Demographics
Adult rock pigeons (Columbia livia f. domestica) from a local farm in Thailand.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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