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Aggregation of equine platelets by Onchocerca cervicalis collagen
The American Journal of Pathology
|March 1, 1983
Summary
Parasite cuticle preparations from Onchocerca cervicalis trigger equine platelet aggregation. This inflammatory response, mediated by collagenase-sensitive surfaces, may explain side effects of diethylcarbamazine treatment.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Immunology
- Parasitology
- Inflammation Research
Background:
- The arachidonic acid pathway is crucial in inflammatory processes.
- Platelets are implicated as key players in host inflammatory responses.
- Diethylcarbamazine (DEC) treatment mobilizes microfilariae into the bloodstream.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of Onchocerca cervicalis cuticle preparations on equine platelet aggregation.
- To explore the mechanism by which parasite components interact with platelets.
Main Methods:
- In vitro equine platelet aggregation assays were performed.
- Parasite cuticle preparations were treated with various enzymes (collagenase, hyaluronidase, elastase, alpha-chymotrypsin) to assess their effect on platelet aggregation.
Main Results:
- Onchocerca cervicalis cuticle preparations induced significant platelet aggregation in vitro.
- This platelet-aggregating activity was specifically abrogated by collagenase treatment.
- Other tested enzymes (hyaluronidase, elastase, alpha-chymotrypsin) did not affect the activity.
Conclusions:
- Parasite cuticular damage, potentially occurring after DEC treatment, may expose platelet-reactive surfaces.
- This interaction can lead to platelet aggregation and the release of inflammatory mediators.
- Targeting the arachidonic acid pathway with inhibitors could mitigate adverse effects associated with DEC therapy.