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Isolation and Characterization of Extracellular Vesicles from Adult Schistosoma japonicum
Published on: May 22, 2018
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Extracellular Vesicles: Schistosomal Long-Range Precise Weapon to Manipulate the Immune Response
1Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel.
Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology
|April 19, 2021
Summary
Schistosome parasites release extracellular vesicles (EVs) that manipulate the host immune system. These EVs help the parasite survive by creating a controlled environment, potentially offering new therapeutic strategies.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Parasitology
- Tropical Diseases
Background:
- Schistosomiasis, caused by *Schistosoma* parasites, affects over 240 million globally.
- Parasites release extracellular vesicles (EVs) that influence host immune responses.
- EVs contain microRNAs (miRNAs) that modulate immune pathways.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of schistosome-derived EVs in modulating host immunity.
- To understand the mechanisms by which EVs influence immune cell differentiation and function.
- To explore the potential of EVs as diagnostic or therapeutic targets.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of EV-harbored miRNAs.
- Assessment of immune cell responses (M1 pathway, Th2 immunity, regulatory T cells).
- Correlation of schistosome-host interactions with the hygiene hypothesis.
Main Results:
- Schistosome EVs upregulate M1 innate immunity and downregulate adaptive Th2 immunity.
- Egg-derived miRNAs promote regulatory T cell differentiation.
- This immunoediting creates a host environment favorable for parasite survival and egg excretion.
Conclusions:
- Schistosome EVs play a critical role in immune evasion and host modulation.
- Understanding EV targeting mechanisms is key for developing schistosomiasis treatments.
- EVs may offer novel avenues for treating both schistosomiasis and immune-related disorders.
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