Hypertonic Saline Induces Host Protective Immune Responses against Brucella abortus Infection in Mice

Hypertonic saline (HTS) resuscitation can enhance immune responses against various pathogens, however, the effect of HTS on brucellosis is yet to be defined. In this study, we found that HTS inhibited Brucella infection in mice by augmenting Th1 immunity. HTS treatment enhanced the serum cytokines production and the expression of nitric oxide synthase (NOS2) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-KB) p50 and p65, crucial anti-Brucella effectors in splenocytes. In addition, HTS treatment also inhibited the phosphorylation of MAPK signaling, accompanied by the down-regulation of the autophagy marker LC3B-II. Due to directing an appropriate immune response, HTS treatment substantially decreased bacterial burden in spleen and liver tissues. In summary, corroborating previous studies showing the antimicrobial effects of HTS, our findings indicate that HTS treatment triggers a protective immune response against Brucella infection. Additionally, these results provide promising evidence of the immunomodulatory role of HTS in controlling bacterial infections.