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Published on: March 25, 2020

Host cholesterol and inflammation as common key regulators of toxoplasmosis and artherosclerosis development

Luciane R Portugal1, Luciana R Fernandes, Jacqueline I Alvarez-Leite

  • 1Biological Sciences, Future Faculty -36900-000, Manhuaçu, MG, Brazil.

Expert Review of Anti-Infective Therapy
|September 9, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Toxoplasma gondii infection impacts atherosclerosis by altering host cholesterol levels and inflammation. This complex interaction influences disease progression and clinical outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Parasitology
  • Cardiovascular Disease

Background:

  • Atherosclerosis involves lipoprotein deposition, inflammation, and thrombosis.
  • Toxoplasma gondii requires host cholesterol for replication.
  • Both conditions are globally prevalent.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To elucidate the complex relationship between atherosclerosis and Toxoplasma gondii infection.
  • To explore how T. gondii influences atherosclerosis development and progression.
  • To discuss potential clinical implications.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature on atherosclerosis and T. gondii.
  • Analysis of host-parasite interactions concerning cholesterol metabolism.
  • Examination of inflammatory responses (Th1-mediated) in the context of co-infection.

Main Results:

  • T. gondii infection reduces plasma low-density lipoprotein (LDL) by utilizing host cholesterol.
  • T. gondii elicits a Th1 inflammatory response, potentially exacerbating atherosclerosis.
  • The interplay between cholesterol availability and inflammation intensity dictates disease outcomes.

Conclusions:

  • The host-Toxoplasma gondii relationship is intricate, affecting atherosclerosis course.
  • Clinical outcomes depend on cholesterol levels and the parasite-induced inflammatory state.
  • Further research is warranted to understand clinical implications.

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