RNA-Sequencing in Elucidating Immune Responses to Haemonchus contortus Infection in Small Ruminants: Systematic...

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Immunology
• Genomics
• Parasitology

Background:

• Haemonchus contortus is a significant threat to small ruminants, exacerbated by widespread anthelmintic resistance.
• Current control strategies are limited by vaccine efficacy and drug resistance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review RNA-sequencing studies on small ruminant immune responses to H. contortus.
• To identify genes and immune pathways linked to resistance and susceptibility.
• To highlight knowledge gaps in understanding goat immune responses.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review following PRISMA guidelines.
• Analysis of RNA-sequencing data from January 2015 to December 2023.
• Focus on identifying differentially expressed genes and immune pathways.

Main Results:

• RNA-seq identified activated immune pathways including Th1/Th2, NK cell, B cell receptor signaling, MAPK, CAMs, and TNF signaling.
• Resistant sheep showed upregulated pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), such as Toll-like receptors (TLRs) and C-type lectin receptors (CLECs).
• A significant gap exists in comparative TLR and CLEC expression data between resistant and susceptible goats.

Conclusions:

• RNA-sequencing provides valuable insights into host-parasite interactions and immune mechanisms against H. contortus.
• Trained innate immunity, involving PRRs, appears crucial for resistance in sheep.
• Further research is needed to elucidate goat-specific immune responses for improved control strategies.