Development and characterization of antibodies against Pasteurella multocida through active vaccination in rabbits

Abstract

Background: Pasteurella multocida is a significant pathogen that affects various domestic and feral animals, causing substantial economic losses in livestock production worldwide. Aim: This study aimed to develop and characterize specific antibodies against P. multocida through active vaccination in rabbits, with potential applications in vaccine development and diagnostic testing. Methods: New Zealand White rabbits were used in a systematic immunization protocol using heat-inactivated P. multocida adjusted to McFarland 4 concentration. The vaccination schedule implemented a graduated dosing approach consisting of three weekly administrations, beginning with 0.5 ml in the first week and increasing to 1.0 ml in weeks two and three. Serum samples were collected at weekly intervals and evaluated using the Agar Gel Precipitation Test (AGPT). Initial precipitin lines were detected 14 days after the first vaccination, with antibody responses peaking by week three. Results: Vaccinated rabbits demonstrated positive AGPT results by the third week, maintaining stable precipitin lines through the six-week study period. The antibodies produced showed consistent specificity against both laboratory reference strains and P. multocida field isolates. Conclusion: This study establishes an effective protocol for generating specific anti-P. multocida antibodies in rabbits, providing valuable resources for the development of diagnostic tools and vaccines against P. multocida infections in livestock.