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Echinococcus multilocularis and its intermediate host: a model of parasite-host interplay
Dominique Angèle Vuitton1, Bruno Gottstein
1WHO-Collaborating Centre for the Prevention and Treatment of Human Echinococcosis, CHU de Besançon, Besançon, France. dominique.vuitton@univ-fcomte.fr
Journal of Biomedicine & Biotechnology
|March 27, 2010
Summary
Echinococcus multilocularis parasite evasion relies on host immune tolerance, not just resistance. Modulating immune responses, like with interferon-alpha, may treat or prevent alveolar echinococcosis.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Parasitology
- Pathology
Background:
- Host-parasite interactions in Echinococcus multilocularis involve a balance between host resistance and parasite-induced tolerance.
- Alveolar echinococcosis pathology results from parasite growth and host immune responses, causing fibrosis and necrosis.
- Disease severity depends on host genetics and disturbances in Th1-related immunity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the mechanisms of host-parasite interactions in Echinococcus multilocularis.
- To understand the role of immune tolerance in alveolar echinococcosis.
- To explore potential immunotherapeutic strategies for alveolar echinococcosis.
Main Methods:
- Studies utilized an experimental mouse model and analyzed patient data.
- Investigated the role of the metacestode's laminated layer, particularly carbohydrate components, in tolerance induction.
- Examined the involvement of Th2-type and anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10, TGF-beta) and nitric oxide in maintaining tolerance.
Main Results:
- The metacestode's laminated layer is crucial for inducing host tolerance.
- Th2 cytokines (IL-10, TGF-beta) and nitric oxide contribute to maintaining tolerance and inhibiting cytotoxic mechanisms.
- Host genetic background and immune status significantly influence disease presentation.
Conclusions:
- Immune tolerance plays a critical role in Echinococcus multilocularis infections.
- Interferon-alpha or specific antigens show potential for future treatment or prevention of alveolar echinococcosis.
- Targeting immune modulation offers a promising therapeutic avenue for this severe parasitic disease.
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