Start with an anesthetized mouse and administer a live-attenuated BCG strain of Mycobacteriumbovis, which has reduced disease-causing ability, through the mouse's nose.
The injected bacteria stimulate an immune response in the lung tissue and nearby lymph node.
This leads to the generation of effector T cells and B cells that enter the mouse's circulation.
The effector B cells produce antibodies against mycobacteria.
Meanwhile, the effector T cells settle in the lung tissue as resident memory T cells or TRM cells, providing long-term immunity.
To assess the effectiveness of immunization, administer live, virulent mycobacteria with disease-causing ability through the mouse's nose.
This triggers the activation of TRM cells in the lung tissue.
Activated TRM cells release cytokines, attracting other immune cells, including effector B cells.
These B cells secrete antibodies that bind to mycobacteria, enhancing their clearance by neutrophils, indicating successful immunization.