Nonspecific Resistance Induced by an Immunopharmacologic Agent Derived from Bordetella pertussis

Treatment of mice with a trichloroacetic acid soluble extract of Bordetella pertussis (Boivin antigen) induces resistance to a lethal dose challenge of mouse adenorius. The resistance develops within 2-3 days after treatment and persists for 10 days and possibly longer. The TCA-soluble extract designated EP-LPS (Endotoxin associated proteins and lipopolysaccharide) consists of proteins that may or may not be complexed to the lipopolysaccharide under nondenaturing conditions. Although EP-LPS induced a notable increase of lymphocytes in the blood and peritonenum and a marked decrease of monocytes and macrophages in the peritoneum, investigation of B cell, T cell, NK cell, and macrophage activities failed to demonstrate ayn striking mechanism that might account for antiviral activity. In a search for an adjuvant to replace alum we discovered that block copolymers L121 and T150R1 in combination exhibited antiviral activity. Keywords: Boivin antigen immunomodulation.