Measuring cytokines in Eurasian tundra reindeer (Rangifer tarandus tarandus) with a bovine bead-based multiplex immunoassay and real-time PCR

PMCID: PMC12175305

PMID: 40533814

DOI: 10.1186/s13028-025-00819-4

Journal: Acta veterinaria Scandinavica

Publication Date: 2025-6-18

Authors: Frøvoll TL, Lybeck K, Lund H, Makvandi-Nejad S, Grimholt U, et al.

Key Points

• First comprehensive evaluation of cytokine detection methods specifically for reindeer immunology
• Successfully measured inflammatory cytokines using a cross-species multiplex assay, with significant increases in IL-10, IL-17, TNF-α, and IFN-γ after cellular stimulation
• Provides a foundational methodology for future research on immune responses in reindeer, particularly important given environmental pressures on their habitats

Summary

This pioneering research addresses a critical gap in veterinary immunological diagnostics by evaluating a bovine cytokine multiplex assay for measuring immune responses in reindeer. The study investigated the potential of using a commercial bovine immunoassay to detect key inflammatory cytokines in reindeer peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and serum, which is crucial for understanding immune dynamics in this unique species facing environmental challenges.

The researchers successfully demonstrated that the bovine bead-based multiplex immunoassay could detect four key cytokines (IL-10, IL-17, TNF-α, and IFN-γ) in reindeer samples, with quantifiable increases observed following cellular stimulation. Complementary qPCR analysis further validated gene expression changes, providing a promising methodological approach for future immunological investigations in reindeer populations. While the study indicates potential, the authors appropriately caution that further testing and validation are necessary before widespread clinical application.