Measuring amphibian immunocompetence: validation of the phytohemagglutinin skin-swelling assay in the cane toad, Rhinella marina

摘要: Summary 1. Measuring the degree of skin-swelling induced by intradermal injection phytohemagglutinin (PHA) is simple, quick and inexpensive, does not require specialized equipment easily conducted under field conditions. 2. PHA perhaps most frequently used assay immunocompetence in studies birds. However, method has rarely been used, never validated, for on ectothermic vertebrates. 3. Here, we document its use an amphibian. In response to PHA injected into a toe web, cane toads exhibited 35% increase web thickness 24 h postinjection. 4. Histologically, initiated rapid (<12 h) infiltration neutrophils, eosinophils macrophages at site, followed influx lymphocytes postinjection. A second exposure stimulated faster, more intense swelling response. 5. In toads, elicits innate immune response, secondary that may reflect cell-mediated activity. Both components are quantifiable skin-swelling. 6. Hence, offers convenient quantify function anurans could usefully be incorporated reasons global amphibian declines.