Characterization of a factor from bovine intestine that protects against Cryptosporidium parvum infection.

Cryptosporidium parvum is a protozoan parasite that causes intestinal infection in a variety of mammals. We have previously described a factor in adult rat or adult bovine intestinal mucosa that protects against C. parvum infection when fed to susceptible infant rats.

Treatment with neurokinin-1 receptor antagonist reduces severity of inflammatory bowel disease induced by Cryptosporidium parvum.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic, debilitating disorder of uncertain and perhaps multiple etiologies. It is believed to be due in part to disregulation of the immune system. Neuroimmune interactions may be involved in induction or maintenance of IBD.