Immunophenotyping Pig Immune Cells by Flow Cytometry: A Powerful Tool for Pharmacology and Toxicology Studies

Authors: Darcey L. Clark, Lynette Brown, and Jennifer J. Stewart
Flow Contract Site Laboratory, 18323 Bothell Everett Hwy, Suite 110, Bothell, WA 98012

fcsl-poster-2024-9

Abstract: Pigs are increasingly used in biomedical research because they share many physiological and anatomical similarities to human. Although dogs and non-human primates have traditionally been used for this purpose, ethical concerns have increased the demand for alternatives (Swindle 2012). Because the pig has been a focus of vaccine research for many years, pig-specific immunology reagents exist as research tools. Pigs have some unique aspects to their immunology: in general pigs have higher circulating leukocytes, a lower ratio of CD4:CD8 T cells, and express more double positive (DP) CD4+/CD8+ cells than other species. These DP cells increase with age and after vaccine and/or infection, and are thought to have memory phenotype. Pigs also have a higher percentage of γδ T cells than other species. γδ T cells are highest in younger animals, express SLA-DR (Swine Leukocyte Antigen, MHC II), and CD8, and are thought to have cytolytic activity and memory. Unlike other species, SLA-DR is preferentially expressed on CD8+ T cells and is up- regulated on activated cells.

Download Now

CONTACT US

Get Started.

Have questions about how TD2 can assist with your regulatory needs? Reach out to our expert staff today to get started.