Immunostimulatory activities of Haberlea rhodopensis leaf extract on the specific antibody response: protective effects against γ-radiation-induced immunosuppression

Immunomodulatory and radioprotective properties of Haberlea rhodopensis extract (HRE) in relation to the primary and secondary specific antibody production were evaluated in New Zealand white rabbits. Rabbits were immunised with keyhole limpet hemocyanin (KLH) and were treated with HRE before irradiation with single dose of 2Gy. Control group without irradiation were also treated with HRE. Rabbits were reimmunised and treated again with HRE on Day 36. KLH-specific total IgM, G, A and KLH-specific IgG antibody production were determined during primary and secondary antibody response by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). We observed a well-defined γ-radiation-induced immunosuppression on the total primary antibody production. Application of HRE restored primary total KLH-specific antibody as well as significantly increased primary KLH-specific IgG antibody response. We also established that HRE strongly enhanced KLH-specific antibody production after reimmunisation. We concluded that HRE exhibits immunostimulatory properties and could play protective role against γ-irradiation damage of immune response.