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. 1996 Aug;64(8):2941–2944. doi: 10.1128/iai.64.8.2941-2944.1996

Role of gamma interferon in a neonatal mouse model of group B streptococcal disease.

V Cusumano 1, G Mancuso 1, F Genovese 1, D Delfino 1, C Beninati 1, E Losi 1, G Teti 1
PMCID: PMC174171  PMID: 8757817

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess the role of gamma interferon (IFN-gamma) in a neonatal mouse model of group B streptococcal (GBS) sepsis. IFN-gamma was produced by spleen cells at 24, 48, and 72 h after GBS challenge. Treatment with anti-IFN-gamma at 6 h before challenge totally abrogated the IFN-gamma response but did not affect survival. Subcutaneous administration of recombinant IFN-gamma (2,500 IU per pup) at 18 h after challenge resulted in increased survival time and reduced blood colony counts at 48 and 72 h. In vitro preincubation of neonatal whole blood with IFN-gamma before the addition of GBS resulted in significant restriction of bacterial growth. These data indicate that administration of recombinant IFN-gamma can partially restore impaired host defenses against GBS in neonatal mice. This cytokine may be useful for the treatment of neonatal infections.

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Selected References

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