Comparison of the Growth Inhibitory Effects of Canine IFN-α, -β and -γ on Canine Cells Infected with Neospora caninum Tachyzoites

Abstract

The growth inhibitory effects of recombinant canine interferon alpha (IFN-α), beta (IFN-β) and gamma (IFN-γ) were examined on Madin-Darby canine kidney cells infected with Neospora caninum tachyzoites. The parasite growth was inhibited by all IFNs in a dose-dependent manner. IFN-γ inhibited the parasite growth with greater efficacy than IFN-α or IFN-β. Moreover, the effect of IFNs on N. caninum growth associated with the suppression of the host cell viability. The present study indicates IFN-a and -β, besides IFN-γ, play a crucial role for N. caninum growth in host cells.