Abstract
INTRODUCTION:
Malaria and leishmaniases are transmitted by vectors during blood-feeding. Vector-infected animals develop antibodies against the vector’s saliva. This study evaluated IgY antibody detection in the chicken eggs exposed to bites from Migonemyia migonei, Lutzomyia longipalpis and Anopheles aquasalis.
METHODS:
We used ELISA to quantify the antibody levels in the sera and exposed chicken eggs.
RESULTS:
High IgY levels were observed following immunization; furthermore, higher reactivity was observed in the eggs and species-specific immune response was observed post final immunization.
CONCLUSIONS:
Chicken eggs can be used as sentinels to surveil vector saliva antibodies.
Keywords:
Lutzomyia longipalpis; Migonemyia migonei; Anopheles aquasalis; Sentinel surveillance; Chicken; Salivary proteins