A Method for Analysis of Cell to Cell Transmission of Theileria sergenti Piroplasms

We tried to develop an experimental system for quantifying piroplasm transmission in Theileria sergenti infection using a SCID mouse model, of which red blood cells (RBC) had been substituted with bovine (Bo). A mouse hybridoma cell producing antibody against Holstein RBC was established for distinguishing Holstein RBC from Japanese Black RBC by a immuno-staining method. T. sergenti piroplasms in RBC were stained by 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole. With the aid of these techniques the piroplasm transmission from one to another race of Bo-RBCs could successfully be quantified in SCID mice.