Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 25, 2025
Cultivation of Heligmosomoides Polygyrus: An Immunomodulatory Nematode Parasite and its Secreted Products
Published on: April 6, 2015
Interactions between macrophages and helminths
Gillian Coakley1, Nicola Laraine Harris1
1Department of Immunology and Pathology, Central Clinical School, The Alfred Centre The Alfred Centre, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
Abstract:
Macrophages, the major population of tissue-resident mononuclear phagocytes, contribute significantly to the immune response during helminth infection. Alternatively activated macrophages (AAM) are induced early in the anti-helminth response following tissue insult and parasite recognition, amplifying the early type 2 immune cascade initiated by epithelial cells and ILC2s, and subsequently driving parasite expulsion. AAM also contribute to functional alterations in tissues infiltrated with helminth larvae, mediating both tissue repair and inflammation. Their activation is amplified and occurs more rapidly following reinfection, where they can play a dual role in trapping tissue migratory larvae and preventing or resolving the associated inflammation and damage. In this review, we will address both the known and emerging roles of tissue macrophages during helminth infection, in addition to considering both outstanding research questions and new therapeutic strategies.
Insights
Tissue macrophages, particularly alternatively activated macrophages (AAM), are crucial for the immune response to helminth infections. They aid in parasite expulsion, tissue repair, and managing inflammation, especially upon reinfection.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Parasitology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Macrophages are key immune cells in helminth infection.
- Alternatively activated macrophages (AAM) are induced early and drive type 2 immunity.
- AAM modulate tissue repair and inflammation during larval infiltration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the roles of tissue macrophages in helminth infection.
- To discuss emerging functions and therapeutic strategies.
- To identify outstanding research questions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing research on tissue macrophages and helminth infections.
- Analysis of the induction and function of AAM.
- Examination of macrophage roles in primary and secondary infections.
Main Results:
- AAM amplify the type 2 immune response, promoting parasite expulsion.
- Macrophages contribute to tissue repair and inflammation resolution.
- During reinfection, AAM play a dual role in larval trapping and inflammation control.
Conclusions:
- Tissue macrophages, especially AAM, are central to anti-helminth immunity.
- Understanding their dual roles is vital for developing new therapies.
- Further research is needed to explore therapeutic strategies targeting macrophages.
Related Concept Videos
01:25Immune Surveillance by NK Cells and Phagocytes
Natural Killer Cells: The Fast Responders
NK cells are large granular lymphocytes found in the blood and lymphatic system. These...
01:40Cell-mediated Immune Responses