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

Aflatoxin B-1, the potent carcinogenic compound produced by the Aspergillus flavus group of fungi on food and feed, induces immunosuppressive effects in rodents. In this communication, we report an immunomodulatory approach to abrogate aflatoxin B-1-induced immunotoxicity in rats using protein A of Staphylococcus aureus Cowan 1. We have earlier demonstrated that protein A can protect the animals from toxicities induced by a number of drugs, chemicals and toxins. In the present study various combinations of aflatoxin B-1 exposure and protein A treatment in animals were used. It was observed that protein A could provide protection to animals from aflatoxin B-1-induced immunotoxicity, as measured by a battery of tests assessing cell-mediated immunity (CMI) profile 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 useful agent to protect the host from aflatoxin immunotoxicity, in view of its stimulatory effects on various immune functions even after their initial depression due to aflatoxin B-1.