Effect of Cobalt60 Gamma Radiation on Susceptibility and Immunity to Trichinosis.

Abstract

Cobalt60 gamma whole body irradiation of 550 to 650 (rep) increased the susceptibility of Swiss mice to infections with Trichinella spiralis. Exposure of Trichinella-immune mice to 600 (rep) before administering a challenge infection destroyed their immunity to re-infection. Data are presented on the effects of 680 (rep) radiation upon the total leukocyte count in the peripheral blood of mice. The sharp reduction in the number of circulating leukocytes may indicate that the role of cellular immunity should be emphasized more in acquired immunity to infections with T. spiralis.