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Inbred mice used for biomedical research display an underdeveloped immune system compared with adult humans, which is attributed in part to the artificial laboratory environment. Despite representing a central component of adaptive immunity, the impact of the laboratory environment on the B cell compartment has not been investigated in detail. Here, we performed an in-depth examination of B cells following rewilding, the controlled release of inbred laboratory mice into an outdoor enclosure. In rewilded mice, we observed B cells in circulation with increased signs of maturation, alongside heightened germinal center responses within secondary lymphoid organs. Rewilding also expanded B cells in the gut, which was accompanied by elevated systemic levels of immunoglobulin G (IgG) and IgM antibodies reactive to the microbiota. Our findings indicate that exposing laboratory mice to a more natural environment enhances B cell development to better reflect the immune system of free-living mammals.
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COVID-19 Immunity Monitoring Using a Multiplexed Paper-Based Assay and Machine Learning
Monitoring the level of COVID-19 immunity within populations is crucial for understanding the disease trend and guiding public health policies, as SARS-CoV-2 remains a threat. Serological testing is essential in assessing immunity by detecting antibodies, IgG, and IgM, the immune system's response developed against infection or after vaccination. To rapidly and cost-effectively monitor COVID-19 immunity levels, we developed a paper-based multiplexed vertical flow immunoassay (xVFA) which detects the IgG and IgM levels in less than 20 mins, aiming to monitor the COVID-19 immunity levels of individuals longitudinally and categorize immune levels into three groups: protected, unprotected, and infected.
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- Award ID(s):
- 2149551
- PAR ID:
- 10534024
- Publisher / Repository:
- 24th Annual University of California Systemwide Bioengineering Symposium
- Date Published:
- Format(s):
- Medium: X
- Location:
- San Diego, CA
- Sponsoring Org:
- National Science Foundation
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