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Recent advances in immunity to human schistosomiasis
1Division of Parasitology, National Institute for Medical Research, Mill Hill, London, UK.
Memorias Do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz
|January 1, 1992
Summary
Immunity to schistosomiasis develops slowly in endemic areas due to early blocking antibodies and later protective antibodies. Research confirms protective immunity is crucial for managing this parasitic disease.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- The role of immunity in human schistosomiasis has been debated for years.
- Recent studies in Brazil, Kenya, Zimbabwe, and The Gambia have confirmed the importance of protective immunity against Schistosoma mansoni and Schistosoma haematobium.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the mechanisms and timeline of protective immunity development in human schistosomiasis.
- To understand the roles of different antibody isotypes and their interference in the immune response to schistosomiasis.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of epidemiological data from endemic areas in Brazil, Kenya, Zimbabwe, and The Gambia.
- Characterization of antibody isotypes (IgE, IgG subclasses, IgM) and their correlation with infection status and duration.
- Investigation of potential cytokine involvement in immunoglobulin class switching.
Main Results:
- Development of immunity in endemic communities requires many years of exposure.
- Early production of non-protective or blocking antibodies (IgM, IgG2, IgG4) precedes the development of protective antibodies.
- Protective antibodies are primarily of the IgE class, with potential contributions from certain IgG subclasses.
Conclusions:
- Protective immunity against schistosomiasis is confirmed but develops late after prolonged exposure.
- The sequential production of blocking and then protective antibodies suggests a complex immune regulation process.
- Cytokine-induced immunoglobulin class switching, driven by sequential lymphokine involvement, likely underlies the observed antibody production patterns.