Inoculation of the Leishmania infantum HSP70-II Null Mutant Induces Long-Term Protection against L. amazonensis Infection in BALB/c Mice

Leishmania amazonensis parasites are etiological agents of cutaneous leishmaniasis in the New World. BALB/c mice highly susceptible to L. challenge due their inability mount parasite-dependent IFN-γ-mediated responses. Here, we analyzed capacity a single administration LiΔHSP70-II genetically-modified attenuated infantum line preventing challenged with virulent parasites. In previous studies, this live vaccine has demonstrated induce long-protection against murine Old World species. Vaccinated showed reduction disease evolution challenge, namely lesions and parasite burdens. contrast control animals, after protected anti-Leishmania IgG2a circulating antibodies accompanied induction Leishmania-driven specific IFN-γ systemic response. An analysis performed lymph node draining site infection revealed an increase parasite-specific IFN-ϒ production by CD4+ CD8+ T cells decrease secretion IL-10 leishmanial antigens. Since immunity caused inoculation generates protection different forms leishmaniasis, postulate as candidate for development human vaccines.