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Updated: May 5, 2026

Trichuris muris Infection: A Model of Type 2 Immunity and Inflammation in the Gut
Published on: May 24, 2011
Trichuris suis ova in inflammatory bowel disease
1University Hospital, Johann Wolfgang Goethe-Universität Frankfurt/Main, Frankfurt/Main, Germany.
Abstract:
Some but not all epidemiological studies suggest that helminth infection in childhood protects against development of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in later years. In animal models of IBD, helminths have shown protective effects and changed bacterial flora in the gut. Based on these concepts, small trials and series have been published showing some positive effects of Trichuris suis ova in ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. Currently, large randomized placebo-controlled trials are under way. Results remain to be awaited in order to clarify a possible role of T. suis ova in the treatment of IBD.
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