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09:58
Using Eggs from Schistosoma mansoni as an In vivo Model of Helminth-induced Lung Inflammation
Published on: June 5, 2012
Eosinophil-mediated tissue inflammatory responses in helminth infection
Myeong Heon Shin1, Young Ah Lee, Duk-Young Min
1Department of Environmental Medical Biology, and Institute of Tropical Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 120-752, Korea. myeong@yuhs.ac
The Korean Journal of Parasitology
|November 4, 2009
Summary
Eosinophils defend against parasitic worms, but helminths possess molecules to evade these immune responses. Understanding this host-parasite interaction is key to helminth infection research.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Parasitology
- Host-Pathogen Interactions
Background:
- Eosinophilic leukocytes are crucial for host defense against helminthic parasites.
- Helminthic parasites have evolved molecules to counteract eosinophil-mediated immune responses.
- This intricate interplay influences the parasite's survival and host's inflammatory reactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent findings on eosinophil innate immune responses to helminths.
- To discuss the role of eosinophils in helminth infection-induced tissue inflammation.
- To elucidate the mechanisms of host-parasite cross-talk during helminthiasis.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent studies on eosinophil immunity and helminth infections.
- Analysis of molecular mechanisms employed by helminths to evade eosinophils.
- Examination of host immune responses and resulting tissue inflammation.
Main Results:
- Helminths utilize specific molecules to inhibit or neutralize eosinophil functions.
- Eosinophil evasion by parasites contributes to parasite migration and survival in vivo.
- A dynamic equilibrium exists between eosinophil responses and helminth evasion strategies.
Conclusions:
- Understanding eosinophil-helminth interactions reveals critical host-parasite communication pathways.
- Eosinophil-mediated inflammation is a significant consequence of helminth infection.
- Further research into these interactions can inform strategies for managing helminth infections.
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