Humoral Immunity Induced by Lumpy Skin Disease Vaccination and its Related Factors in Cattle

Abstract

Lumpy skin disease (LSD) is a viral disease in cattle characterized by high fever, skin nodules, and enlarged lymph nodes, leading to substantial economic losses. This study evaluated the humoral immune response to the initial LSD vaccination in three cattle breeds, namely Korean native cattle (Hanwoo), Holstein, and Jersey, up to 18 weeks post-vaccination. A total of 65 cattle were vaccinated with the live attenuated Neethling strain of the LSD vaccine (Lumpyvax®, MSD Animal Health). Antibody titers were measured using ELISA from blood samples collected before and at 3, 6, 9, 12, and 18 weeks post-vaccination. Pre-vaccination complete blood count parameters were also analyzed to determine their correlation with antibody responses. Significant breed-specific differences were observed in antibody titers and seropositivity rates. Eighteen weeks post-vaccination, Holstein cattle exhibited the most significant increase in LSD antibody concentrations, followed by Hanwoo and Jersey cattle (p<0.05). Additionally, Holstein cattle achieved the highest seroconversion rates (73.3%), whereas Hanwoo cattle showed the lowest seropositivity (33.3%) during the same period. Additionally, pre-vaccination immune cell profiles, particularly lymphocyte and basophil levels, were found to correlate with antibody responses, emphasizing the role of innate immunity in vaccine efficacy. These findings underscore the importance of considering breed-specific immune responses and pre-vaccination immune cell profiles when developing vaccination strategies. Tailored approaches may be necessary to enhance vaccine efficacy and improve disease control across different cattle breeds.

Keywords: Lumpy skin disease, Vaccination, Humoral immunity, Breed difference