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Antibody isotypes in human schistosomiasis mansoni
1Department of Immunology, Medical School, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, UK.
Parasite Immunology
|November 1, 1987
Summary
Schistosoma mansoni infection alters serum immunoglobulin levels, with elevated IgG1 and IgG4 in chronic cases. Praziquantel treatment reverses IgG subclass responses, suggesting isotype selection influences host susceptibility.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Parasitology
- Tropical Medicine
Background:
- Schistosomiasis mansoni is a significant parasitic disease.
- Understanding host immune responses is crucial for disease management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate serum immunoglobulin levels and specific antibody responses in Schistosoma mansoni-infected individuals.
- To analyze the impact of Praziquantel treatment on these immune markers.
Main Methods:
- Studied 276 subjects: chronic cases, schoolchildren, and acute cases.
- Measured serum immunoglobulin classes and IgG subclasses against parasite antigens.
- Compared untreated chronic cases with those treated with Praziquantel.
Main Results:
- Elevated total IgG, particularly IgG1 and IgG4, observed in infected groups.
- Distinct IgG subclass profiles associated with infection stage (acute vs. chronic) and age.
- Praziquantel treatment reduced IgA and IgM, and shifted IgG subclass responses from IgG4 to IgG1/IgG2/IgG3.
Conclusions:
- Antibody isotype selection plays a role in host susceptibility to Schistosoma mansoni.
- Age, exposure, and treatment influence immune responses and disease outcomes.