Gajalakshmi G, Sheela Devi R

Department of Physiology, Dr.ALM Post Graduate Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Madras, Taramani, Chennai, Tamil Nadu

Abstract

• Background: The field of neuroimmunomodulation is gaining attention among researchers and scientists as it helps to focus new pathophysiological concepts behind the allergic, autoimmune and infectious disorders.
• Aim: The aim of the present study was to assess the effect of bilateral cerebellar fastigial nucleus lesion on non-specific immune responses in adult male Wistar albino rats.
• Materials and Methods: Healthy adult male Wistar albino rats weighing about 200-220 gm were chosen for our study and were subjected to bilateral cerebellar fastigial nucleus lesion. The study design consists of three groups namely Group I: Control immunized animals; Group II: Bilateral fastigial nucleus lesioned immunized animals; Group III: Sham operated immunized animals. The animals were immunized on 10th day by injecting 1ml of the sheep red blood cell (SRBC) suspension intra-peritoneally and on the 15th day, blood samples were collected to test immunological parameters namely plasma corticosterone levels, total leucocyte count,differential leucocyte count, splenic and thymic cell counts.
• Results: In our study,there was a significant decrease in both splenic and thymic cell counts in lesion immunized animals and a marked increase in the neutrophil count with a concomitant decrease in the lymphocyte count also. The total leucocyte count and plasma corticosterone levels did not vary from its respective control groups.
• Conclusion: This study further substantiates the bi­directional cross talk communication existing between the neuro-endocrine and immune system.

Keywords: cerebellum, immune responses