The Contribution of Llama IGG Subclasses to Immunity

(MAF study sponsored by ARF)

Principal investigator:

Kenneth H. Roux  

In addition to the conventional forms of antibodies which are found in all species, llamas possess an unusual form of antibody in their bloodstream that is difficult to detect. The role of these unusual antibodies in protecting llamas against infection is currently unknown. These investigators developed better methods of detecting these antibodies and measuring their levels in blood. This methodology will be used to determine whether these unusual antibodies are important in the response of llamas to vaccines and in the defense against infections. The methodology will also be used to determine how well these antibodies are passed on to newborn crias in the colostrum. Current tests only determine the level of conventional antibodies, or IgG in the cria’s blood. This is definitely a work in progress. Initial funding led to the development of the methodology. But additional studies will have to be conducted before it is known whether these unusual antibodies have an important pathophysiological role in protecting llamas against infection.