The effects of ascorbic acid on the immune system of the guinea pig (cavia porcel.Lusi)

Abstract

A review of the literature shows that vitamin C has a positive effect on some mechanisms of both natural and acquired resistance against infection. The specif ic effects of ascorbic acid in these processes have however remained obsecure. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of ascorbic acid on the immune system using the guinea pig as a model. The specific objectives were to find out the effects this vitamin on immunoglobulin levels, on T-cell function and on humoral response to viral antigens. In all the three experiments done, the animals were divided into four groups recievig 0, 0.5, 1.5 and 2.5mg ascorbic acid per 100gm body weight daily. These animals were then maintained on an ascorbic acid deficient diet, and were weighed and bled once every seven days. In experiment I, the immunoglobulin levels were determined using a 'Sandwich I Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay. In experiment II, the T-lymphocytes were cultured and stimulated by mitoses (phytoheamagglutinin and Concanavalin A) after which the response to stimulation was compared. In experiment III, the guinea pigs were inoculated with Hepatitis B surf ace antigen (HBsAg). The levels of guinea pig anti-HBsAg were determined using a Passive Heamagglutinin test.