Locally bred rabbits (<i>Lepus nigricollis</i> Cuvier) for antibody production

Locally bred rabbits (Lepus nigricollis Cuvier) have been used extensively as experimental models in Indonesia. Moreover, the rabbit is considered as a convenient host for antibody production. This study aimed to investigate whether the locally bred rabbit can be used for immunoserum production using available facilities. The animals were obtained from a local supplier and acclimatized in the animal facility. Live suspensions of common bacteria, Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus were prepared as the antigens. Bacteria at various doses were given orally or injected intraperitoneally on day 1 and day 7. Rabbits without antigen induction served as controls. Blood samples were collected on days 0, 3 and 9 and processed into serum. Immunosera were incubated with the respective bacteria and allowed to agglutinate. Agglutination was observed directly and confirmed by microscopic observation. Agglutination scores and immunoserum titers were obtained. Immunosera from the control and baseline immunosera before antigen induction reacted positively to the bacteria. However, immunosera after antigen induction, especially from the intraperitoneal injection groups gave higher agglutination scores and higher titers compared with the control. Immunoserum and antibody production required bacteria free laboratory facilities and animal hosts.