Comparative evaluation of the immunogenic response of Clostridium perfringens beta-antigens coated with RBC membrane and uncoated in rabbit as an animal model

Clostridium perfringens (C. perfringens) type C is the cause of enterotoxemia in young and adult cattle and one of the essential factors of economic losses to the animal husbandry industry. The most important virulence factor in this type is beta toxin. In recent decades, the use of nanoparticles to improve the effectiveness of vaccines has been considered. In order to increase the survival of nanoparticles, the membrane of cells such as red blood cells is used for coating. The aim of comparative evaluation of the immunogenic response of C. perfringens beta-antigen coated with RBCMs and uncoated. First, nanoantigens trapped in the membrane of RBC were prepared, and then sterility and residual toxicity tests were carried out. Finally, it was injected into two groups of rabbits along with bare nano antigens according to the immunization schedule and within 150 days. The indirect ELISA method was used to evaluate the antibody titer. In order to demonstrate the immunogenicity of nanoparticles coated with RBCMs, the challenge and hemolysin tests were performed. Determining the antibody response showed high immunogenic stimulation and a stable increase in antibody titer in the immune group with nano antigens trapped in the RBCMs. Challenge evaluation and hemolysin test showed the positive activity of beta nano antigens covered with red RBCMs in stimulating the immune system of rabbits. The study results showed that the RBCMs provide a safe layer to contain the nanotoxin and cause the slow and gradual release of encapsulated antigens.