Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Theileria annulata (causing Tropical Theileriosis) and Theileria parva (causing East Coast Fever) are two distinct tick-borne protozoan parasites of cattle.
They are geographically separate and possess different antigenic properties.
Detailed Explanation:
Let us evaluate both statements:
Statement (I): Theileria annulata and Theileria parva are antigenically distinct species.
Recovery from infection or vaccination against T. annulata does not provide significant cross-protection against a subsequent challenge with T. parva.
Vaccination and control programs must target the specific species relevant to the region.
Thus, Statement (I) is incorrect.
Statement (II): Protective immunity against East Coast Fever (T. parva) is primarily mediated by cell-mediated immunity.
Specifically, MHC class I-restricted CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) target and destroy schizont-infected lymphocytes.
The CTLs release cytolytic granules (perforins and granzymes) onto the target cell membrane.
Perforin molecules polymerize to form pores, causing uncontrolled water influx, osmotic swelling, lysis, and destruction of the infected host cell.
Thus, Statement (II) is correct.
Therefore, Statement (I) is incorrect but Statement (II) is correct.
Step 2: Final Answer:
The correct option is (D).