This study investigated the presence of cytokines interferon
(IFN)-gamma, interleukins (IL) -6 and -8 in serum of cattle
and buffaloes infected with Fasciola gigantica from one to 16
weeks post-infection to determine their T cell response
during infection. The concentration of these cytokines was
determined by sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent
assay (ELISA). No IFN-gamma was detected in these
animals while IL-6 was elevated from one to 16 weeks postinfection.
Levels of IL-8 were also elevated in infected
buffaloes from one to 16 weeks post-infection. A
predominantly T helper (Th) 2 response which started early
in the infection was apparently present in cattle and
buffaloes in this study which was characterised by IL-6. IL-8
production could be another mechanism of immune
response in buffaloes during infection with F. gigantica.