Transformation of healthy bovine lymphocytes using Theileria parva in vitro

Abstract

Lymphocyte cultures were established from mesenteric lymph nodes, spleens and thymuses of foetuses, calves and adult cattle obtained from the abattoir.

An attempt was made to infect these cultures with ground up tick suspension stabilate made from Rhipicephalus appendiculatus ticks, infected with Theileria parva (Muguga).

No infection was effected.

Factors which have contributed to this failure and the merits of the technique in general, are discussed.