Imunopathological effect of quinalphos on macrophage functions of chickens

Abstract

To study the effect ofquinalphos on macrophage functions in chickens, 80 chicks of 1 week age were used and divided into 2 equal groups. These chicks were vaccinated with Ranikhet disease vaccine at day 4 and IBD at day 15. Group 1 chicks were kept as control while group 2 was given quinalphos, a organophosphate group insecticide daily @ 8 ppm orally for 2 months in feed. The functional activitiy of macrophages was assessed by nitroblue tetrazolium reduction assay. The test was conducted at 4 weeks and 8 weeks after the administration of quinalphos. The results indicated a significant depression of macrophage functions as evidenced by a reduction in NBT positive cells in quinalphos treated birds at 4 and 8 weeks in comparison to controls. This depression of macrophase activity may result in increased susceptibility of host to various infections.