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Updated: Sep 29, 2025
10:12
Experimental Infection of Mice with the Parasitic Nematode Strongyloides ratti ratti Infection
Published on: January 17, 2025
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Helminths get MIFfed by the tuft cell - ILC2 circuit
Pia M Vornewald1, Menno J Oudhoff1
1Centre of Molecular Inflammation Research, and Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway.
Immunology and Cell Biology
|March 18, 2022
Summary
Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is crucial for a robust type 2 immune response in the gut. This response is essential for expelling parasitic worms like Nippostrongylus brasiliensis.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Parasitology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Type 2 immune responses are critical for host defense against helminth parasites.
- Goblet cell hyperplasia and mucus production are key features of these responses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) in type 2 immunity during helminth infection.
- To elucidate the mechanisms by which MIF influences the expulsion of Nippostrongylus brasiliensis.
Main Methods:
- In vivo studies using mouse models of Nippostrongylus brasiliensis infection.
- Analysis of immune cell populations and cytokine profiles in the gut.
- Assessment of goblet cell activation and RELM-β secretion.
Main Results:
- MIF is essential for initiating a strong type 2 immune response in the gut.
- MIF-deficient mice exhibit impaired expulsion of Nippostrongylus brasiliensis.
- MIF promotes goblet cell activation and the secretion of resistin-like molecule beta (RELM-β).
Conclusions:
- Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) plays a vital role in gut immunity against helminths.
- MIF is a key regulator of type 2 immune responses, impacting goblet cell function and parasite clearance.
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