CHICKEN INTERLEUKIN-15 AND USES THEREOF

摘要

The present invention provides isolated and purified DNA encoding avian interleukin-15 (IL-15), as well as cloning and expression vectors comprising IL-15 DNA and cells transformed with IL-15-encoding vectors. The invention also provides isolated and purified avian IL-15 polypeptide which has the ability to simulate mitogen-activated avian T cells. The invention also provides a method for enhancing an immune response in fowl to an immunogen by administering the immunogen before, after, or simultaneously with avian IL-15. Finally, the invention provides a vaccine for inducing immune responses in fowl to an immunogen comprising the immunogen and an effective amount of avian IL-15.