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The peptide sequence VLPRAMQT corresponds to an 8-amino-acid fragment derived from the chicken interleukin-10 (IL-10) protein. This peptide has been identified as an immunogenic epitope and has been utilized in avian immunology research, particularly in the context of coccidiosis in poultry.
Role in IL-10 Neutralization:
Interleukin-10 is an anti-inflammatory cytokine that plays a crucial role in regulating immune responses. In the context of Eimeria infections, which cause coccidiosis in poultry, IL-10 can suppress protective immune responses, leading to increased susceptibility to infection. To counteract this, researchers have developed strategies to neutralize IL-10 activity.
The VLPRAMQT peptide has generated specific antibodies against IL-10. By immunizing laying hens with this peptide conjugated to a carrier protein, researchers produced egg yolk-derived antibodies (IgY) that specifically bind to IL-10. These antibodies, when administered orally to broiler chickens, have been shown to mitigate the immunosuppressive effects of IL-10 during Eimeria infections, thereby improving growth performance and reducing disease severity.
Applications in Research and Poultry Health
Vaccine Development: The VLPRAMQT peptide serves as a key component in developing oral vaccines aimed at enhancing resistance to coccidiosis by neutralizing IL-10.
Diagnostic Tools: This peptide has been utilized in enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) to detect anti-IL-10 antibodies in egg yolk and plasma, facilitating the monitoring of immune responses in vaccinated birds.
Growth Performance Studies: Feeding broiler chickens with anti-IL-10 antibodies derived from VLPRAMQT-immunized hens has demonstrated improvements in weight gain and feed efficiency during Eimeria challenges.
The VLPRAMQT peptide is a significant tool in avian immunology research, particularly for its role in modulating immune responses during coccidiosis infections. Its application in generating specific anti-IL-10 antibodies offers a promising avenue for enhancing poultry health and performance. | 