Eosinophils from Physiology to Disease: A Comprehensive Review

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Hematology
• Pathophysiology

Background:

• Eosinophils are a minor granulocyte population with significant roles in inflammation and disease.
• Their functions extend beyond parasite control to include defense against bacterial, viral, and HIV pathogens.
• Eosinophils possess potent antimicrobial compounds that can also cause host tissue damage and hemostatic dysregulation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive review of the pathophysiological roles of eosinophils.
• To discuss their involvement in host defense, inflammation, and cancer.
• To explore recent therapeutic advances targeting eosinophils.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of current research on eosinophil biology and function.
• Analysis of the dual role of eosinophils in host defense and pathology.
• Synthesis of recent findings in eosinophil-targeted therapies.

Main Results:

• Eosinophils are critical in host defense but can contribute to tissue damage and thrombosis.
• Their complex roles are reshaping the diagnosis and classification of allergic and autoimmune diseases.
• A new era of targeted eosinophil therapies is emerging.

Conclusions:

• Eosinophils have multifaceted roles in health and disease, necessitating a deeper understanding.
• Advances in eosinophil research are driving significant clinical and therapeutic innovations.
• Targeting eosinophils holds promise for treating various inflammatory conditions, cancers, and thrombotic events.