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Updated: Jul 5, 2026
03:23
Three-Dimensional Cell Culture Models to Investigate the Epithelial Barrier in Eosinophilic Esophagitis
Published on: May 10, 2024
Eosinophilia during intestinal infection.
Thomas Löscher1, Elmar Saathoff
1Department of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-University of Munich, Leopoldstrasse 5, Munich, Germany. loescher@lrz.uni-muenchen.de
Best Practice & Research. Clinical Gastroenterology
|May 22, 2008
Summary
Eosinophilia, often seen in tropical regions, is linked to helminth infections. While eosinophils fight parasites, they also modulate the immune system, potentially aiding parasite survival and protecting against allergies.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Tropical Medicine
- Parasitology
Background:
- Eosinophilia is common in developing countries, primarily due to chronic helminth infections.
- Helminth infections can impair childhood development and cause serious complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the role of eosinophils in helminth infections.
- To investigate the immunomodulatory effects of eosinophils in helminthiasis.
- To assess the predictive value of eosinophilia for helminth infections.
Main Methods:
- Review of current research on eosinophilia and helminth infections.
- Analysis of the Th2 immune response in helminthiasis.
- Examination of eosinophil's in vitro and in vivo functions.
Main Results:
- Eosinophils exhibit both direct anti-parasitic activity and immunomodulatory functions.
- Immunomodulation by eosinophils can promote parasite survival and reduce pathology.
- Eosinophil-induced immunomodulation may protect against allergic and autoimmune diseases.
Conclusions:
- Eosinophilia's predictive value for helminth infection is context-dependent, increasing in high-prevalence areas.
- Eosinophils play a complex role in helminth infections, balancing parasite control and immune regulation.
- Understanding eosinophil function is crucial for managing helminthiasis and its associated immune phenomena.
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