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Cellular gene expression induced by parasite antigens and allergens in neonates from parasite-infected mothers

Peter T Soboslay1, Thorsten Orlikowsky2, Xiangsheng Huang1

  • 1Institute for Tropical Medicine, University of Tübingen (UKT), Wilhelmstr. 27, 72074 Tübingen, Germany.

Molecular Immunology
|April 11, 2016
PubMed

Insights

Prenatal exposure to parasite antigens can alter newborn immune responses. Lack of prenatal exposure may predispose neonates to immune, blood, and skin disorders later in life.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Developmental Biology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Prenatal exposure to parasite antigens or allergens can shape postnatal immune responses, potentially leading to tolerance and increased susceptibility to infections or sensitization to allergens.
  • In utero exposure to parasite antigens distinctly alters cellular gene expression in newborns, influencing their immune system development.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the impact of prenatal parasite antigen exposure on gene expression profiles in umbilical cord blood cells (UCBC).
  • To compare gene expression differences between neonates exposed (Para-POS) and unexposed (Para-NEG) to parasite antigens in utero.

Main Methods:

  • Gene microarrays were used to analyze gene expression in UCBC from Para-POS and Para-NEG neonates.
  • UCBC were activated with helminth (Onchocerca volvulus), amoeba (Entamoeba histolytica), or mite (Dermatophagoides farinae) antigens.

Main Results:

  • Significant differences in gene expression were observed between Para-POS and Para-NEG groups when UCBC were stimulated with helminth antigens or allergens.
  • Genes involved in immune regulation, inflammation, and apoptosis showed altered expression patterns.
  • Para-NEG neonates exhibited enhanced expression of innate immune response genes, while Para-POS neonates showed reduced expression of MHC class II and STAT genes.
  • Functional gene network analysis revealed higher expression values in Para-NEG neonates for cellular growth, proliferation, and immune responses.

Conclusions:

  • Prenatal parasite exposure can sensitize the immune system without inducing aberrant inflammatory responses.
  • Neonates lacking prenatal parasite antigen encounter may have gene expression profiles predisposing them to immunological, hematological, and dermatological disorders upon postnatal exposure.
  • Gene expression profiles in UCBC reflect prenatal immune programming and potential susceptibility to postnatal immune-related conditions.

Keywords:
Gene expressionHelminth and amoeba antigensMite allergensNeonatesPrenatal immune sensitizationUmbilical cord blood cells

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