Effect of carotenoid ß-cryptoxanthin on cellular and humoral immune response in rabbit.

ABSTRACT

Beta-cryptoxanthin (b-Cr) is a pro-vitamin A and one of the major carotenoids that can be commonly found in mammalian serum and tissues. Foods rich in certain fatty acids are known to be effective to gain a healthy immune system. In the present study, we evaluated the effect of b-Cr on rabbit humoral and cellular immune responses to have a better vision about the mechanism of effect of carotenoids on immune system. Twenty rabbits were randomly divided into five groups (4 per group) Groups consisted of 1) control group (normal saline; 2) b-Cr (control); 3) vaccine control; 4) 5 mg/kg b-Cr o.p. + vaccine; 5) 10 mg/kg b-Cr o.p. + vaccine. Blood samples were obtained from the marginal ear artery at three time points days 0, 14 and 21 of the study. Blood CD4+ and CD8+ lymphocytes and Serum Immunoglobulin and Cytokines content were evaluated. Results show that b-Cr administration increased the blood CD4+ lymphocytes count (P > 0.01). Serum IgG, IgM and IgA levels increased (P > 0.05) following b-Cr administration. b-Cr treatment increased serum IL-4 levels (P > 0.05). According to presented results, b-Cr may increase the humoral immunity in mammals. So, it would possible has a potentially beneficial effect on health and on prevention of the immunity related diseases.