The gut associated lymphoid system in the post-hatch chick: Dynamics of maternal IgA

A. Friedman*, O. Elad, I. Cohen, E. Bar Shira

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

14 Scopus citations

Abstract

Adaptive immunity is immature at birth in mammals and birds. Several measures have evolved to protect the neonate or hatchling during this critical period, one of which is totally dependent upon the adaptive immune response of the maternal parent - maternal antibodies. Maternal antibodies have protecting roles both systemically (via the blood system) and locally in the gut. The protective role of maternal antibodies in the chicken gut, and particularly that of maternal IgA, is of particular interest due to the precocial nature of chicken development.Consequent to the rapid colonization of the chick gut by commensal bacteria, as well as the possible entry of pathogenic bacteria, a parallel rapid development of gut associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) is expected. However, the gut-specific adaptive immune response matures within two weeks post hatch. Hence, local protection of the developing gut appears to be dependent upon the presence and activity of maternal antibodies, similar to that described in the mammal. These maternal antibodies are provided during the process of egg formation, and continue to function in the hatchling until its own immune response can take over. Here we briefly review these protective mechanisms and provide several new insights to the protection of maternal IgA and its extended activity in the gut of the post-hatch chick.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)75-81
Number of pages7
JournalIsrael Journal of Veterinary Medicine
Volume67
Issue number2
StatePublished - Jun 2012

Keywords

  • Chick immune response
  • Gut associated lymphoid tissue
  • IgA
  • Maternal antibody
  • Maternal protection

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