In vitro activation of the antibacterial activity by virus-resistant shrimp (Marsupenaeus japonicu) recombinant interferon-like protein

Interferon is an important cytokine in the host defense against infection by viral and microbial pathogens. We determined quantitatively the antibacterial activity of the virus-resistant shrimp (Marsupenaeus japonicus) recombinant protein IntIP against three Gram-negative bacteria: Vibrio alginolyticus, Vibrio parahemolyticus and Vibrio vulnificus, using a turbidmetric assay with live bacteria and differential bacterial viable count after interaction with the protein. In conclusion, the antibacterial activity of recombinant shrimp protein IntIP against Vibrio sp is at least equal to the values against the Gram-positive Micrococus luteus and more active against the shrimp pathogens V. alginolyticus and V. parahemolyticus. (C) 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.