Humoral immune parameters of cultured Atlantic halibut (Hippoglossus hippoglossus L.)

Several humoral immune factors were studied in a group of cultured halibut (Hippoglossus hippoglossus L.). The serum protein and IgM concentration was comparable to levels seen in other teleost species. A strong antibody activity against TNP-BSA was observed but not against other antigens tested. Lysozyme and anti-protease activity was detected and showed variable heat sensitivity. Unlike the anti-protease activity, the lysozyme activity of the sera was not sensitive to storage at - 20 degrees C. No spontaneous haemolytic activity was observed and the sera had no bactericidal effect on any of the bacterial strains tested. Iron binding capacity of the sera was high. Individual variation was considerable in all the factors tested. (C) 2001 Academic Press.