Effect of a combined clostridial vaccine on cytokine and immunoglobulin levels in lambs

Infections caused by clostridial agents are difficult to treat and have a high mortality rate. This study aimed to determine the effects of the recommended dose of a commercial clostridial vaccine on serum levels of TNF–α, IL–1β, IL–6, and IL–10, and IgG and IgM in lambs. Methods: A single commercial clostridial vaccine, containing Clostridium perfringens types A, B, C, and D, Clostridium septicum, Clostridium novyi type B, Clostridium tetani, and Clostridium chauvoei, was administered subcutaneously (2 mL per dose) to 15 female lambs, with two doses given at a four–week interval. Blood samples were taken at 0, 2, 4, 8, 12, and 24 hours after the first dose, and species–specific serum TNF–α, IL–1β, IL–6, and IL–10 levels were measured using commercial ELISA kits. Serum IgG and IgM levels were determined using an ELISA reader from blood samples taken on days 0, 7, and 21 after each of the first and second vaccinations. While no statistical changes were observed in IL–1β and IL–10 levels (P>0.05), TNF–α peaked at the 2nd hour (P<0.05), and IL–6 levels reached the highest levels at the 8th and 12th h after vaccination (P<0.05). While no change was detected in IgM levels in the study (P>0.05), IgG levels were significantly elevated in the final two samples (P<0.05). In conclusion, clostridial vaccine application in lambs stimulates cytokine synthesis and provokes an IgG response responsible for immunity, which is observed after the second application.