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Immune responses following experimental human hookworm infection.
Clinical and Experimental Immunology
|October 20, 2005
Summary
Primary hookworm infection in humans causes transient immune responses, including elevated eosinophils and specific cytokines like IL-5 and IL-13. These immune reactions were less pronounced upon reinfection.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Infectious Diseases
- Parasitology
Background:
- Human hookworm infections, caused by Necator americanus, are prevalent globally.
- Understanding the host immune response is crucial for developing effective treatments and vaccines.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the immune response following primary and secondary human hookworm infection.
- To monitor clinical signs, hematological parameters, cytokine production, acute phase proteins, and antibody levels.
Main Methods:
- An adult volunteer was infected with Necator americanus larvae.
- Immune responses were assessed through clinical observation, blood counts, ex-vivo cytokine assays (IFN-gamma, IL-5, IL-13, IL-10), acute phase protein measurements (CRP, alpha1-AT), and antibody level determination.
Main Results:
- Primary infection induced dermatitis, edema, nausea, and abdominal discomfort.
- Eosinophil counts remained elevated (approx. 18%) throughout both infections.
- Transient production of IL-5, IL-13, and acute phase proteins (CRP, alpha1-AT) occurred, coinciding with larval migration and establishment.
- Negligible IFN-gamma and IL-10 levels were detected.
- Immune responses, except eosinophilia, declined within 4 months and were less pronounced upon reinfection.
Conclusions:
- The human immune response to Necator americanus involves transient Th2-biased cytokine production (IL-5, IL-13) and eosinophilia.
- The immune response is less pronounced during secondary infection, suggesting some degree of acquired immunity.