Milk lymphocyte profile and macrophage functions: new insights into the immunity of the mammary gland in quarters infected with Corynebacterium bovis

Abstract Backgrounds The present study explored the viability of bovine milk macrophages, their intracellular production reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS), phagocytosis Staphylococcus aureus , as well profile lymphocytes, from healthy udder quarters infected by Corynebacterium bovis . included 28 12 dairy cows 20 C. 10 cows. percentages macrophages lymphocytes were identified flow cytometry using monoclonal antibodies. Macrophage viability, RONS production, S. evaluated cytometry. Results Milk samples with showed a lower percentage but an increased number per mL higher that produced phagocytosed No effect infection on macrophage was found. Udder T cells CD4 + no found CD8 − T, or B lymphocytes. Conclusions Thus, our results corroborate, at least in part, finding intramammary infections may offer protection against major pathogens.