Removal of the spleen abrogates the long-term hydrosalpinx pathology following <i>Chlamydia</i>genital infection

Abstract C. trachomatis infections in women may cause pelvic inflammatory disease, chronic pain, and infertility. In the mouse model, genital Chlamydia disseminates systemically to infect spleen. Removal of spleen (splenectomy) abrogates hydrosalpinx pathology female reproductive tract (FRT), although it does not affect FRT clearance. Ascension upper (uteri, ovaries, oviducts) is critical for development hydrosalpinx. Over course infection, splenectomized mice exhibit significantly lower burden GI compared controls. Based on report that Chlamydia-specific IgA secreted protects against challenge, we hypothesized splenectomy induces secretion FRT. Examination vaginal washes revealed unlike controls, by 4 weeks post-infection (wpi). However, presence at this time did explain significant reduction ascension observed 2 wpi. Unlike additionally IgM antibodies secretions as early Naïve infected with pre-incubated collected or 6 wpi exhibited reduced FRT, ILNs, spleen, 3 7 days Secreted thus neutralize Chlamydia, diminish its abrogate long-term pathology. This work reveals a previously unknown role plays regulation antibody mucosa. Supported grant from NIH (1 R21 AI159743-01)