Biomedical
The Roles of Various Immune Cell Populations in Immune Response against Helminths
Janina Lekki-Jóźwiak,
Piotr Bąska
Peer Reviewed
Abstract
Helminths are multicellular parasites that are a substantial problem for both human and veterinary medicine. According to estimates, 1.5 billion people suffer from their infection, resulting in decreased life quality and burdens for healthcare systems. On the other hand, these infections may alleviate autoimmune diseases and allergy symptoms. The immune system is programmed to combat infections; nevertheless, its effector mechanisms may result in immunopathologies and exacerbate clinical symptoms. This review summarizes the role of the immune response against worms, with an emphasis on the Th2 response, which is a hallmark of helminth infections. We characterize non-immune cells (enteric tuft cells—ETCs) responsible for detecting parasites, as well as the role of hematopoietic-derived cells (macrophages, basophils, eosinophils, neutrophils, innate lymphoid cells group 2—ILC2s, mast cells, T cells, and B cells) in initiating and sustaining the immune response, as well as the functions they play in granulomas. The aim of this paper is to review the existing knowledge regarding the immune response against helminths, to attempt to decipher the interactions between cells engaged in the response, and to indicate the gaps in the current knowledge.
Key Questions
1. What are the key immune cell populations involved in the response to helminths?
The key immune cells include T cells, B cells, macrophages, eosinophils, and dendritic cells. These cells collaborate to detect and eliminate helminths.
2. How do these immune cells interact to combat helminth infections?
They work together by recognizing pathogen-associated signals, activating immune responses, and producing cytokines that enhance immune defense against helminths.
3. What role do regulatory T cells play in the immune response against helminths?
Regulatory T cells help control excessive inflammation and prevent tissue damage during helminth infections.
4. How do environmental factors influence immune responses to helminths?
Environmental factors, such as diet and hygiene, can influence immune system development and the body’s susceptibility to helminth infections.
