Abstract

Background: T-2 mycotoxin belongs to the Trichothecene family and has damaging effects on the immune system. Objective: To investigate the toxic effect of T-2 toxin on the percentage of peripheral blood B lymphocytes and the potential protective role of selenium and vitamin E. Method: Frequencies of B lymphocytes (CD19(+)) were analyzed after injection of sublethal doses of T-2 toxin into Balb/c mice at different time points, using flowcytometry. Additionally, the effects of selenium and vitamin E on B lymphocyte, as either prophylaxis or simultaneously administered with T-2 toxin, were investigated. Results: After injection of a sublethal dose of T-2 toxin, the number of B cells (CD19(+)) significantly decreased at 12 h and became normal at 72 h. When selenium was injected both 24 h before and simultaneously with T-2 toxin, it was able to inhibit B lymphocyte (CD19+) reduction. In contrast, injecting vitamin E, 24 h before or simultaneously with T-2 toxin did not regulate B lymphocyte alteration. Conclusion: Selenium plays pivotal role on altered B lymphocyte subset induced by T-2 toxin comparing to vitamin E.