The effect of natural immunomodulators applied in immersion on non-specific immune responses in Russian sturgeon (Acipenser gueldenstaedti Brandt)

Abstract

The effect of immersion in 1,3/1,6 β-Glucan, Chitosan, and FinnStim on non-specific immune responses was studied in Russian sturgeon fry reared in cages in power plant effluents. In the first month of treatment, an increase of total leucocyte numbers due to high increase of lymphocyte level, stimulation of metabolic and phagocytic activity of PMN cells, an increase of activity and index of lysozyme, and a decrease of ceruloplasmin activity, level of γ-globulin fraction, and total protein in plasma were observed. Seasonal variability of these indices was also noted. Application of natural immunomodulators in Acipenser gueldenstaedti Brandt fry resulted in a pleiotropic effect, modulating cellular and humoral responses which differed in various treatments.