Transfer factor and its protective effect against herpesvirus infections of marmosets.

Abstract

Using skin test response and lymphocyte blastogenesis as indicators of cell-mediated immunity, we have been able to demonstrate in vivo transfer of cell-mediated immunity to marmosets both with dialyzable transfer factor (TFd) prepared from a human donor and transfer factor (TF) from baboon whole cell lysates. We were able to protect marmosets with TFd from fatal Herpesvirus hominis type 1 (HVH-1) disease. When TFd was administered prior to challenge with HVH-1, 50% of the marmosets survived. Of the untreated control animals and those first treated on day 0 or postinfection, 100% succumbed to disseminated HVH-1 disease. In addition, when TF prepared from TFd-treated marmosets which had survived HVH-1 disease, was given to other marmosets, it conferred protection from subsequent HVH-1 challenge.