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Host-parasite interactions in rodent nematode infections
1Division of Gastroenterology, University Hospital, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK. yash.mahida@nottingham.ac.uk
Journal of Helminthology
|May 21, 2003
Summary
The study shows that T helper 2 (Th2) immune responses are crucial for expelling intestinal nematodes like Trichinella spiralis. These responses drive key changes in the gut lining, aiding parasite removal.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Parasitology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Intestinal nematode infections in rodents, such as Trichinella spiralis and Nippostrongylus brasiliensis, trigger host responses involving mucosal inflammation and architectural changes.
- The expulsion of these parasites is dependent on T cell-mediated immunity, with a specific emphasis on Th2-type responses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the specific roles of T helper 2 (Th2) cytokines in mediating resistance against intestinal nematodes.
- To characterize the cellular and mucosal changes associated with Th2 responses during parasitic infection.
- To explore the contribution of non-bone marrow-derived cells to host defense mechanisms.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing rodent models infected with intestinal nematodes (Trichinella spiralis, Nippostrongylus brasiliensis, Trichuris muris).
- Employing neutralizing antibodies to block specific cytokine functions.
- Investigating genetically manipulated mouse models to assess the impact of targeted gene disruptions.
- Analyzing changes in mucosal architecture, epithelial phenotype, and smooth muscle responses.
Main Results:
- Th2-type immune responses, but not Th1-type, are essential for nematode expulsion.
- Specific Th2 cytokines play critical roles in both parasite clearance and inducing host mucosal alterations.
- Significant changes in epithelial cell phenotype and smooth muscle function are observed in response to infection and Th2 activation.
- Non-bone marrow-derived cells contribute significantly to both innate and adaptive immunity against intestinal parasites.
Conclusions:
- T helper 2 cell-mediated immunity is the primary driver of resistance and expulsion of intestinal nematodes in rodents.
- Th2 cytokines orchestrate critical host defense mechanisms, including specific mucosal adaptations necessary for parasite clearance.
- Understanding these immune pathways offers insights into host-parasite interactions and potential therapeutic targets.