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Updated: Apr 25, 2026
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An In vitro Co-infection Model to Study Plasmodium falciparum-HIV-1 Interactions in Human Primary Monocyte-derived Immune Cells
Published on: August 15, 2012
13.4K
What lies within: coinfections and immunity
Blossom Damania1, Dirk P Dittmer1
1Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Program in Global Oncology at the Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7295, USA.
Cell Host & Microbe
|August 15, 2014
Summary
Helminth infections modulate the immune system, promoting T-helper 2 (Th2) responses. This immune shift can impair antiviral defenses and reactivate latent herpesviruses.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Virology
- Parasitology
Background:
- Helminth infections are known to induce significant immunomodulation.
- The impact of helminth-induced immune changes on secondary infections requires further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate how helminth infection influences the host's immune response to viral infections.
- To determine the specific immune pathways affected by helminths in the context of viral challenges.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on helminth-host interactions and immune responses.
- Analysis of studies examining the interplay between helminthiasis and viral pathogenesis.
Main Results:
- Helminth infection promotes a shift towards T-helper 2 (Th2) and M2 immune regulatory responses.
- These Th2/M2 responses dampen critical T-helper 1 (Th1) and M1 antiviral immune activities.
- Helminthiasis is associated with an increased risk of latent herpesvirus reactivation.
Conclusions:
- Helminth-induced immunomodulation significantly alters the host's ability to combat viral infections.
- The Th2/M2 immune bias created by helminths compromises antiviral immunity and facilitates viral persistence or reactivation.
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