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Effector functions of eosinophils in schistosomiasis
1Centre d'Immunologie et de Biologie Parasitaire, Unité Mixte INSERM U 167-CNRS 624, Institut Pasteur, Lille, France.
Memorias Do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz
|January 1, 1992
Summary
Eosinophils fight schistosomiasis parasites but can also harm tissues. Their role in immunity is complex, involving antibody-dependent mechanisms that suggest protection against reinfection.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Parasitology
- Pathology
Background:
- Eosinophils possess receptors for immunoglobulins and complement, and release granule proteins.
- These features enable eosinophils to target parasite larvae, contributing to protective immunity.
- However, eosinophil mediators can also damage host cells, leading to pathology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the dual role of eosinophils in schistosomiasis.
- To explore eosinophil involvement in protective immunity and pathology.
- To analyze the association between antibody isotypes and eosinophil function in schistosomiasis.
Main Methods:
- In vitro studies using antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) mechanisms against schistosome larvae.
- In vivo experiments to assess eosinophil function.
- Analysis of antibody isotypes (IgG, IgE, IgA, IgG4, IgM) in relation to host resistance and susceptibility.
Main Results:
- Eosinophils demonstrated cytotoxic effects on schistosome larvae via ADCC mechanisms in vitro.
- Experiments in vivo confirmed eosinophil involvement in protective immunity.
- Specific antibody isotypes (IgE, IgA) correlated with resistance to reinfection, while others (IgG4, IgM) were linked to susceptibility.
Conclusions:
- Eosinophils play a dual role in schistosomiasis, mediating both protective immunity and pathology.
- Antibody-dependent mechanisms highlight eosinophils' critical function in host defense against schistosome parasites.
- Eosinophils contribute to granuloma formation around parasite eggs, exacerbating schistosomiasis-induced pathology.