Effects of early-life conditions on innate immune function in adult zebra finches.

ABSTRACT: Early life conditions can affect individuals for life, with harsh developmental conditions resulting in lower fitness, but the underlying mechanisms are not well understood. We hypothesized that immune function may be part of the underlying mechanism, when harsh developmental conditions result in less effective immune function. We tested this hypothesis by comparing innate immune function between zebra finches (Taeniopygia guttata) in adulthood (n=230; age 108-749 days) that were reared in either small or large broods. We used this experimental background to follow up our earlier finding that finches reared in large broods have a shorter lifespan. To render a broad overview of innate immune function, we used an array of six measures: bacterial killing capacity, hemagglutination, hemolysis,

SUBMITTER: Driessen MMG 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8214827 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature