NEI supplementation improves alum-based immunity in CFTR KO mice

Abstract Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder that causes severe damage to the lungs and digestive system. CF affects cells produce mucus, sweat, enzymes caused by mutations in Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR). Expression function of CFTR have been extensively studied on epithelial several recent publications shown also regulates functions myeloid cells. We addressed whether expressed B role cell functions. found murine human Compared control wild-type (WT) mice, KO exhibited reduced frequency lymphoid tissues lower levels serum immunoglobulin isotypes. Upon systemic immunization with an alum-based vaccine, mice developed antibody responses than mice. Interestingly, vaccine supplementation inhibitor serine protease elastase (NEI) enhanced titers vaccine-specific heterozygote (CFTR Het) previously reported NEI could promote mucosal immunity immunized injected vaccine. In this regard, Het NEI-supplemented higher IgA IgG saliva WT These results provide new insights regulatory for differentiation function. They suggest improve protection individuals leaving against respiratory pathogens. NIH R01 DK101323