Abstract
Acanthamoeba castellanii mannose-binding protein (MBP) mediates adhesion of the amoebae to corneal epithelial cells, a key first step in the pathogenesis of Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK), a devastating corneal infection. In the present study, we demonstrate that oral immunization with recombinant MBP ameliorates AK in a hamster animal model and that this protection is associated with the presence of elevated levels of anti-MBP immunoglobulin A in the tear fluid of the immunized animals.
Publication types
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Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
MeSH terms
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Acanthamoeba Keratitis / prevention & control*
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Acanthamoeba castellanii*
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Administration, Oral
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Animals
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Cricetinae
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Cricetulus
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Disease Models, Animal
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Immunization / methods*
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Immunoglobulin A, Secretory / analysis
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Mannose-Binding Lectin / administration & dosage*
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Mannose-Binding Lectin / immunology
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Recombinant Proteins / administration & dosage*
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Recombinant Proteins / immunology
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Tears / immunology
Substances
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Immunoglobulin A, Secretory
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Mannose-Binding Lectin
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Recombinant Proteins