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Dvorožňáková E, Vargová M, Hurníková Z, Lauková A, Revajová V. Modulation of lymphocyte subpopulations in the small intestine of mice treated with probiotic bacterial strains and infected with Trichinella spiralis. J Appl Microbiol 2022; 132:4430-4439. [PMID: 35304938 DOI: 10.1111/jam.15534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To study the local intestinal lymphocyte immunity in mice with trichinellosis affected by probiotic bacteria. METHODS AND RESULTS Enterococcus faecium CCM8558, E. durans ED26E/7, Limosilactobacillus fermentum CCM7421 and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum 17L/1 were administered daily (109 CFU.ml-1 ) and mice were infected with Trichinella spiralis (400 larvae) on 7th day of treatment. T. spiralis infection significantly inhibited lymphocyte subpopulations from 5 to 25 days post infection (dpi). L. fermentum CCM7421 and L. plantarum 17L/1 restored the CD4+T cell numbers in the epithelium and lamina propria at control level from 11 dpi. All strains stimulated the CD8+T cells numbers in infected mice, which were restored in the lamina propria on 11 dpi and in the epithelium only on 32 dpi. B cells (CD19+) inhibition after T. spiralis infection was not affected by treatment till 25dpi. CONCLUSIONS The strain-specific immunomodulatory effect of tested bacteria was confirmed. L. fermentum CCM7421 and L. plantarum 17L/1 showed the greatest immunomodulatory potential on CD4+ and CD8+T lymphocytes in trichinellosis. E. faecium CCM8558 and E. durans ED26E/7 activated only CD8+T cells in the lamina propria. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF STUDY Positive modulation of the gut lymphocyte immunity in T. spiralis infection with bacterial strains showed their beneficial effect in the host's antiparasitic defense.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emília Dvorožňáková
- Institute of Parasitology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Košice, Slovak Republic
| | - Miroslava Vargová
- Institute of Parasitology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Košice, Slovak Republic.,University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy in Košice, Košice, Slovak Republic
| | - Zuzana Hurníková
- Institute of Parasitology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Košice, Slovak Republic
| | - Andrea Lauková
- Institute of Animal Physiology, Centre of Biosciences of the Slovak Academy of Sciences, Košice, Slovak Republic
| | - Viera Revajová
- University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy in Košice, Košice, Slovak Republic
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Yousefi Y, Haq S, Banskota S, Kwon YH, Khan WI. Trichuris muris Model: Role in Understanding Intestinal Immune Response, Inflammation and Host Defense. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10080925. [PMID: 34451389 PMCID: PMC8399713 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10080925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Several parasites have evolved to survive in the human intestinal tract and over 1 billion people around the world, specifically in developing countries, are infected with enteric helminths. Trichuris trichiura is one of the world’s most common intestinal parasites that causes human parasitic infections. Trichuris muris, as an immunologically well-defined mouse model of T. trichiura, is extensively used to study different aspects of the innate and adaptive components of the immune system. Studies on T. muris model offer insights into understanding host immunity, since this parasite generates two distinct immune responses in resistant and susceptible strains of mouse. Apart from the immune cells, T. muris infection also influences various components of the intestinal tract, especially the gut microbiota, mucus layer, epithelial cells and smooth muscle cells. Here, we reviewed the different immune responses generated by innate and adaptive immune components during acute and chronic T. muris infections. Furthermore, we discussed the importance of studying T. muris model in understanding host–parasite interaction in the context of alteration in the host’s microbiota, intestinal barrier, inflammation, and host defense, and in parasite infection-mediated modulation of other immune and inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeganeh Yousefi
- Farncombe Family Digestive Health Research Institute, McMaster University Health Sciences Centre Room 3N7, 1280 Main St. W, Hamilton, ON L8N 3Z5, Canada; (Y.Y.); (S.H.); (S.B.); (Y.H.K.)
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University, 1200 Main St. W, Hamilton, ON L8N 3Z5, Canada
| | - Sabah Haq
- Farncombe Family Digestive Health Research Institute, McMaster University Health Sciences Centre Room 3N7, 1280 Main St. W, Hamilton, ON L8N 3Z5, Canada; (Y.Y.); (S.H.); (S.B.); (Y.H.K.)
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University, 1200 Main St. W, Hamilton, ON L8N 3Z5, Canada
| | - Suhrid Banskota
- Farncombe Family Digestive Health Research Institute, McMaster University Health Sciences Centre Room 3N7, 1280 Main St. W, Hamilton, ON L8N 3Z5, Canada; (Y.Y.); (S.H.); (S.B.); (Y.H.K.)
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University, 1200 Main St. W, Hamilton, ON L8N 3Z5, Canada
| | - Yun Han Kwon
- Farncombe Family Digestive Health Research Institute, McMaster University Health Sciences Centre Room 3N7, 1280 Main St. W, Hamilton, ON L8N 3Z5, Canada; (Y.Y.); (S.H.); (S.B.); (Y.H.K.)
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University, 1200 Main St. W, Hamilton, ON L8N 3Z5, Canada
| | - Waliul I. Khan
- Farncombe Family Digestive Health Research Institute, McMaster University Health Sciences Centre Room 3N7, 1280 Main St. W, Hamilton, ON L8N 3Z5, Canada; (Y.Y.); (S.H.); (S.B.); (Y.H.K.)
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University, 1200 Main St. W, Hamilton, ON L8N 3Z5, Canada
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-905-521-2100 (ext. 22846)
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The immune protection induced by a serine protease from the Trichinella spiralis adult against Trichinella spiralis infection in pigs. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009408. [PMID: 33970910 PMCID: PMC8136858 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Trichinellosis is a major foodborne parasitosis caused by Trichinella spiralis. In the present study, a serine protease gene from an adult T. spiralis (Ts-Adsp) cDNA library was cloned, expressed in Escherichia coli and purified by Ni-affinity chromatography. Previous studies of our laboratory have found that mice vaccinated with recombinant Ts-Adsp protein (rTs-Adsp) exhibited partial protection against T. spiralis infection. In this study, the protective effect of rTs-Adsp against T. spiralis infection in pigs was further explored. The cell-mediated and humoral immune responses induced by rTs-Adsp were measured, including the dynamic trends of specific antibody levels (IgG, IgG1, IgG2a and IgM), as well as the levels of cytokines (IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-4, and IL-10) in the serum. Moreover, the changes in T lymphocytes, B lymphocytes, and neutrophils were measured to evaluate cellular immune responses in pigs vaccinated with rTs-Adsp. The results indicated that a Th1-Th2 mixed immune response with Th1 predominant was induced by rTs-Adsp after vaccination. Flow cytometric analysis showed that the proportions of CD4+ T cells, B cells, and neutrophils in the immunized groups were significantly increased. Furthermore, pigs vaccinated with rTs-Adsp exhibited a 50.9% reduction in the muscle larvae burden, compare with pigs from the PBS group five weeks after challenged. Our results suggested that rTs-Adsp elicited partial protection and it could be a potential target molecule for preventing and controlling Trichinella transmission from pigs to human. Trichinellosis is a global foodborne parasitic disease caused by consuming raw or poorly cooked meat. The porcine products are the most common source. Therefore, it will have a great significance for public health security and human health to prevent and control the trichinellosis. We previously found that mice vaccinated with recombinant Adsp protein (rTs-Adsp) exhibited partial protection against T. spiralis infection. In this study, the protective effect of rTs-Adsp against challenge infections with T. spiralis in pigs was further explored. We found that rTs-Adsp elicited partial protection and it could be an important target molecule for preventing and controlling T. spiralis transmission from pigs to human.
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4
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Kong Q, Zhuo X, Yang X, Ding H, Ding J, Lou D, Tong Q, Wu Z, Lu S. Early Detection of Trichinella spiralis DNA in Rat Feces Based on Tracing Phosphate Ions Generated During Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification. J Parasitol 2021; 107:141-146. [PMID: 33662114 DOI: 10.1645/19-137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Early diagnosis of trichinellosis is still difficult because of the lack of specific symptoms and limited window for serological detection. Here we established an assay based on tracing phosphate ions generated during loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) to detect Trichinella spiralis DNA in rat feces during its early stage of infection. By targeting a 1.6-kb repetitive element of Tri. spiralis, the assay was able to detect Tri. spiralis DNA in the feces of all infected rats as early as 1 day postinfection (dpi). The positive detection lasted to 7 dpi in the rats infected with 250 muscle larvae, and 21 dpi in the rats infected with 5,000 larvae. The assay was highly sensitive, and could detect 1.7 femtograms (fg) of Tri. spiralis DNA with high specificity, and with no cross reactivity with the DNA from Anisakis pegreffii, Gnathostoma spinigerum, Angiostrongylus cantonensis, Enterobius vermicularis, Schistosoma japonicum, and Trypanosoma evansi. Our present study provided a reliable technique for the early diagnosis of trichinellosis with the advantages of simplicity and speed, as well as high sensitivity and specificity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingming Kong
- Department of Immunity and Biochemistry, Institute of Parasitic Disease, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Xunhui Zhuo
- Department of Immunity and Biochemistry, Institute of Parasitic Disease, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Xiaodi Yang
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Anhui Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, 233030, China
| | - Haojie Ding
- Department of Immunity and Biochemistry, Institute of Parasitic Disease, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Jianzu Ding
- Department of Immunity and Biochemistry, Institute of Parasitic Disease, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Di Lou
- Department of Immunity and Biochemistry, Institute of Parasitic Disease, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Qunbo Tong
- Department of Immunity and Biochemistry, Institute of Parasitic Disease, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Zhiliang Wu
- Department of Parasitology, Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Yanagido 1-1, Gifu 501-1194, Japan
| | - Shaohong Lu
- Department of Immunity and Biochemistry, Institute of Parasitic Disease, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310053, China
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5
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Co-expulsion of Ascaridia galli and Heterakis gallinarum by chickens. Int J Parasitol 2018; 48:1003-1016. [PMID: 30240707 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2018.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2018] [Revised: 05/28/2018] [Accepted: 05/31/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Worm expulsion is known to occur in mammalian hosts exposed to mono-species helminth infections, whilst this phenomenon is poorly described in avian hosts. Mono-species infections, however, are rather rare under natural circumstances. Therefore, we quantified the extent and duration of worm expulsion by chickens experimentally infected with both Ascaridia galli and Heterakis gallinarum, and investigated the accompanying humoral and cell-mediated host immune responses in association with population dynamics of the worms. Results demonstrated the strong co-expulsion of the two ascarid species in three phases. The expulsion patterns were characterized by non-linear alterations separated by species-specific time thresholds. Ascaridia galli burden decreased at a daily expulsion rate (e) of 4.3 worms up to a threshold of 30.5 days p.i., followed by a much lower second expulsion rate (e = 0.46), which resulted in almost, but not entirely, complete expulsion. Heterakis gallinarum was able to induce reinfection within the experimental period (9 weeks). First generation H. gallinarum worms were expelled at a daily rate of e = 0.8 worms until 36.4 days p.i., and thereafter almost no expulsion occurred. Data on both humoral and tissue-specific cellular immune responses collectively indicated that antibody production in chickens with multispecies ascarid infections is triggered by Th2 polarisation. Local Th2 immune responses and mucin-regulating genes are associated with the regulation of worm expulsion. In conclusion, the chicken host is able to eliminate the vast majority of both A. galli and H. gallinarum in three distinct phases. Worm expulsion was strongly associated with the developmental stages of the worms, where the elimination of juvenile stages was specifically targeted. A very small percentage of worms was nevertheless able to survive, reach maturity and induce reinfection if given sufficient time to complete their life cycle. Both humoral and local immune responses were associated with worm expulsion.
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6
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Burleson SCM, Freebern WJ, Burleson FG, Burleson GR, Johnson VJ, Luebke RW. Host Resistance Assays. Methods Mol Biol 2018; 1803:117-145. [PMID: 29882137 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-8549-4_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The goal of immunotoxicity testing is to obtain data useful for immunotoxicity safety assessment. Guidance in the performance of immunotoxicity safety evaluations is provided in documents from the US EPA for chemicals and the ICH S8 document for pharmaceuticals. The ICH S8 document outlines a tiered approach that includes (1) standard toxicity studies with associated hematology, immune system organ weights, and histopathology data; (2) functional assays, such as cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) assays, natural killer (NK) cell assays, respiratory burst, phagocytosis, and T-cell-dependent antibody response (TDAR) assays; and (3) host resistance assays. Host resistance assays are considered the gold standard in immunotoxicity testing and provide a critical overview of the extent to which innate, adaptive, and homeostatic regulatory immune functions are integrated to protect the host. Both comprehensive and targeted host resistance assays are available, each with distinct advantages. This chapter serves to provide a general overview of the various assays that may be used, as well as a summary of procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Wendy Jo Freebern
- Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Immunotoxicology, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | | | - Gary R Burleson
- Burleson Research Technologies, Inc. (BRT), Morrisville, NC, USA
| | - Victor J Johnson
- Burleson Research Technologies, Inc. (BRT), Morrisville, NC, USA
| | - Robert W Luebke
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Cardiopulmonary and Immunotoxicology Branch, Environmental Public Health Division, National Health and Environmental Effects Laboratory, Office of Research and Development, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA.,Burleson Research Technologies, Inc., Morrisville, NC, USA
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7
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Angkasekwinai P, Sodthawon W, Jeerawattanawart S, Hansakon A, Pattanapanyasat K, Wang YH. ILC2s activated by IL-25 promote antigen-specific Th2 and Th9 functions that contribute to the control of Trichinella spiralis infection. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0184684. [PMID: 28898280 PMCID: PMC5595335 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0184684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2017] [Accepted: 08/29/2017] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
IL-25, an IL-17 family cytokine, derived from epithelial cells was shown to regulate Th2- and Th9-type immune responses. We previously reported that IL-25 was important in promoting efficient protective immunity against T. spiralis infection; however, the cellular targets of IL-25 to elicit type-2 immunity during infection have not yet been addressed. Here, we investigated IL-25-responding cells and their involvement in mediating type-2 immune response during T. spiralis infection. ILC2 and CD4+ Th2 cells residing in the gastrointestinal tract of T. spiralis infected mice were found to express high levels of surface interleukin-17 receptor B (IL-17RB), a component of the IL-25 receptor. Following T. spiralis infection, activated ILC2s upregulated surface MHCII expression and enhanced capacity of effector T helper cell in producing antigen-specific Th2 and Th9 cytokines through MHCII-dependent interactions. Reciprocally, lack of CD4+ T helper cells impaired ILC2 function to produce type 2-associated cytokines in responding to IL-25 during T. spiralis infection. Furthermore, mice deficient in IL-17RB showed markedly reduced ILC2 numbers and antigen-specific Th2 and Th9 cytokine production during T. spiralis infection. The Il17rb-/- mice failed to mount effective antigen specific Th2 and Th9 functions resulting in diminished goblet cell and mast cell responses, leading to delayed worm expulsion in the intestines and muscles. Thus, our data indicated that ILC2s and CD4+ Th2 cells are the predominant cellular targets of IL-25 following T. spiralis infection and their collaborative interactions may play a key role in mounting effective antigen-specific Th2 and Th9 cytokine responses against T. spiralis infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pornpimon Angkasekwinai
- Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Thammasat University, Pathumthani Thailand.,Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Thammasat University, Pathumthani Thailand
| | - Wichuda Sodthawon
- Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Thammasat University, Pathumthani Thailand
| | - Siranart Jeerawattanawart
- Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Thammasat University, Pathumthani Thailand.,Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Thammasat University, Pathumthani Thailand
| | - Adithap Hansakon
- Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Thammasat University, Pathumthani Thailand.,Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Thammasat University, Pathumthani Thailand
| | - Kovit Pattanapanyasat
- Center of Excellence for Flow Cytometry, Office for Research and Development, Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Yui-Hsi Wang
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH United States of America
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Developmental profile of select immune cells in mice infected with Trichinella spiralis during the intestinal phase. Vet Parasitol 2016; 231:77-82. [PMID: 27501987 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2016.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2016] [Revised: 07/15/2016] [Accepted: 07/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Trichinella spiralis can cause immunosuppression during the intestinal phase of early infection. However, changes in the peripheral blood during T. spiralis early infection remain unclear. Here, select immune cells in mice infected with 500 muscle larvae (ML) of T. spiralis during the intestinal phase of infection were studied. First, the recovery rates of the intestinal worms and female fecundity were determined, and the results showed that the intestinal worms were completely eliminated at 17 days post-infection (dpi) and that large numbers of new-born larvae (NBL) were generated from 5 to 9dpi. Using flow cytometry, it was shown that the number of CD4+ T cells and CD8+ T cells increased over the entire intestinal phase, except on 7dpi when CD4+ T cells decreased significantly compared to the control groups. Although both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells increased, CD8+ T cells increased more than CD4+ T cells, leading to a lower CD4+/CD8+ ratio compared to the control group. Subsequently, a depression of the proliferative response of T cells to concanavalin A (Con A) was noticed at 7 and 11dpi. Although the proliferative response of B cells to LPS was enhanced, the number of B cells from mouse peripheral blood stimulated by T. spiralis antigens showed no differences with the control group prior to 11dpi. The expression of CD14 on monocyte-macrophages decreased during the same period, which meant that the antigen-presenting response was reduced in the immune system of the infected mice. Moreover, the alternatively activated macrophages were induced in T. spiralis early infection. These data provide a better understanding of the development of the intestinal immune response in mice infected with T. spiralis.
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Abstract
The mouse whipworm Trichuris muris has long been used as a tractable
model of human Trichuriasis. Here we look back at the history of T. muris
research; from the definition of the species and determination of its life cycle, through
to the complex immune responses that we study today. We highlight the key research papers
that have developed our understanding of immune responses to this parasite, and reflect on
how original concepts have been transformed, as our knowledge of immunology has grown.
Although we have a good understanding of host–parasite interactions in the context of the
underlying cellular immunology, there are still many aspects of the biology of the
Trichuris parasite that remain undefined. We predict that advances in
parasite biology will be key in the future development of new and improved treatments for
Trichuriasis.
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Adnađević T, Jovanović VM, Blagojević J, Budinski I, Čabrilo B, Bijelić-Čabrilo O, Vujošević M. Possible influence of B chromosomes on genes included in immune response and parasite burden in Apodemus flavicollis. PLoS One 2014; 9:e112260. [PMID: 25372668 PMCID: PMC4221283 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0112260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2014] [Accepted: 10/02/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic background underlying wild populations immune response to different parasites is still not well understood. We studied immune response to multiple infections and to competition between different parasite species at different developmental stages in population of yellow-necked mouse, Apodemus flavicollis. Quantitative real-time PCR was used to investigate associations of MHC II-DRB, IL-10 and Tgf-β genes expressions with presence of intestinal parasites at different developmental stages. Furthermore, we were interested whether the host related characteristics (sex, age, body condition, presence of B chromosomes or expression of other genes) or characteristics of present parasites (number of adult parasites of each identified species, egg count of each parasite genus, total number of nematode individuals) affect differential expression of the studied genes. A significant invert association between the expression of MHC II-DRB and Tgf-β gene was found, which together with absence of IL-10 association confirmed modified Th2 as the main type of immune response to nematode infections. Effect of recorded parasites and parasite life-cycle stage on expression levels of MHC II-DRB gene was detected only through interactions with host-related characteristics such as sex, age, and the presence of B chromosomes. The presence of B chromosomes is associated with lower expression level of Tgf-β gene. Although the influence of host genetic background on parasite infection has already been well documented, this is the first study in mammals that gave presence of B chromosomes on immune response full consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanja Adnađević
- Department of Genetic Research, Institute for Biological Research “Siniša Stanković”, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
- * E-mail:
| | - Vladimir M. Jovanović
- Department of Genetic Research, Institute for Biological Research “Siniša Stanković”, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Jelena Blagojević
- Department of Genetic Research, Institute for Biological Research “Siniša Stanković”, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ivana Budinski
- Department of Genetic Research, Institute for Biological Research “Siniša Stanković”, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Borislav Čabrilo
- Department of Biology and Ecology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Olivera Bijelić-Čabrilo
- Department of Biology and Ecology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Mladen Vujošević
- Department of Genetic Research, Institute for Biological Research “Siniša Stanković”, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
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11
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The role of antibody in parasitic helminth infections. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2014; 828:1-26. [PMID: 25253025 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-1489-0_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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12
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Nippostrongylus-induced intestinal hypercontractility requires IL-4 receptor alpha-responsiveness by T cells in mice. PLoS One 2012; 7:e52211. [PMID: 23284939 PMCID: PMC3527412 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0052211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2012] [Accepted: 11/16/2012] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Gut-dwelling helminthes induce potent IL-4 and IL-13 dominated type 2 T helper cell (TH2) immune responses, with IL-13 production being essential for Nippostrongylus brasiliensis expulsion. This TH2 response results in intestinal inflammation associated with local infiltration by T cells and macrophages. The resulting increased IL-4/IL-13 intestinal milieu drives goblet cell hyperplasia, alternative macrophage activation and smooth muscle cell hypercontraction. In this study we investigated how IL-4-promoted T cells contributed to the parasite induced effects in the intestine. This was achieved using pan T cell-specific IL-4 receptor alpha-deficient mice (iLckcreIL-4Rα−/lox) and IL-4Rα-responsive control mice. Global IL-4Rα−/− mice showed, as expected, impaired type 2 immunity to N. brasiliensis. Infected T cell-specific IL-4Rα-deficient mice showed comparable worm expulsion, goblet cell hyperplasia and IgE responses to control mice. However, impaired IL-4-promoted TH2 cells in T cell-specific IL-4Rα deficient mice led to strikingly reduced IL-4 production by mesenteric lymph node CD4+ T cells and reduced intestinal IL-4 and IL-13 levels, compared to control mice. This reduced IL-4/IL-13 response was associated with an impaired IL-4/IL-13-mediated smooth muscle cell hypercontractility, similar to that seen in global IL-4Rα−/− mice. These results demonstrate that IL-4-promoted T cell responses are not required for the resolution of a primary N. brasiliensis infection. However, they do contribute significantly to an important physiological manifestation of helminth infection; namely intestinal smooth muscle cell-driven hypercontractility.
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Becerra-Díaz M, Valderrama-Carvajal H, Terrazas LI. Signal Transducers and Activators of Transcription (STAT) family members in helminth infections. Int J Biol Sci 2011; 7:1371-81. [PMID: 22110388 PMCID: PMC3221944 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.7.1371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2011] [Accepted: 10/01/2011] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Helminth parasites are a diverse group of multicellular organisms. Despite their heterogeneity, helminths share many common characteristics, such as the modulation of the immune system of their hosts towards a permissive state that favors their development. They induce strong Th2-like responses with high levels of IL-4, IL-5 and IL-13 cytokines, and decreased production of proinflammatory cytokines such as IFN-γ. IL-4, IFN-γ and other cytokines bind with their specific cytokine receptors to trigger an immediate signaling pathway in which different tyrosine kinases (e.g. Janus kinases) are involved. Furthermore, a seven-member family of transcription factors named Signal Transducers and Activators of Transcription (STAT) that initiate the transcriptional activation of different genes are also involved and regulate downstream the JAK/STAT signaling pathway. However, how helminths avoid and modulate immune responses remains unclear; moreover, information concerning STAT-mediated immune regulation during helminth infections is scarce. Here, we review the research on mice deficient in STAT molecules, highlighting the importance of the JAK/STAT signaling pathway in regulating susceptibility and/or resistance in these infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mireya Becerra-Díaz
- Unidad de Biomedicina, Facultad de Estudios Superiores-Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México-UNAM, México
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Dvorožňáková E, Hurníková Z, Kołodziej-Sobocińska M. Development of cellular immune response of mice to infection with low doses of Trichinella spiralis, Trichinella britovi and Trichinella pseudospiralis larvae. Parasitol Res 2010; 108:169-76. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-010-2049-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2010] [Accepted: 09/03/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Abstract
Identification of potentially immunosuppressive compounds typically involves assessing a combination of observational endpoints as surrogates for functional endpoints and functional endpoints as surrogates for resistance to infectious or neoplastic disease. Host resistance assays are considered to be the "gold standard" against which suppression of immune function at the molecular or cellular level can be judged, because resistance to infection, regardless of the actual pathogen, involves multiple pathways of effector function to neutralize or eliminate pathogens. Resistance to infection with the parasitic nematode Trichinella spiralis has been used to assess immune function following exposure to a variety of immunotoxicants at the whole animal level. The various immunological mechanisms that are responsible for resistance to different phases of the life cycle are well documented, as are the effects of immunosuppression on the outcome of infection. This chapter describes methods to assess elimination of adult parasites from the small intestine, body burdens of larvae, as well as antibody responses and lymphocyte responses to parasite antigens.
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Trichinella spiralis: Effect of thymus factor X on apoptosis and necrosis in mice. Exp Parasitol 2009; 123:128-33. [PMID: 19555688 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2009.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2009] [Revised: 06/01/2009] [Accepted: 06/15/2009] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the study was to determine the effect of thymus factor X (TFX-Jelfa) on the percentage of apoptotic and necrotic lymphocytes in the spleen, mesenteric lymph nodes, and muscle tissue of mice infected with 200 larvae of Trichinella spiralis. TFX was administered subcutaneously at a dose of 15mg/kg. On days 7, 14, 21, 28, 35, 42, and 60 after infection, apoptotic and necrotic cells were detected by flow cytometry after staining with the Annexin V-Fluos Staining Kit. TFX increased the percentage of apoptotic lymphocytes in the spleen, mesenteric lymph nodes, and muscle tissue of mice infected with T. spiralis. The effect of TFX on the percentage of necrotic lymphocytes was weaker and less clear. Parasite load was lower in infected mice treated with TFX than in the untreated control mice. The effect of TFX on the host immune response and the survival of parasite larvae was therefore probably affected by the extent of inflammatory infiltrates, and not by the percentage of lymphocytes undergoing apoptosis.
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Physiological changes in the gastrointestinal tract and host protective immunity: learning from the mouse-Trichinella spiralis model. Parasitology 2008; 135:671-82. [PMID: 18501042 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182008004381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Infection and inflammation in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract induces a number of changes in the GI physiology of the host. Experimental infections with parasites represent valuable models to study the structural and physiological changes in the GI tract. This review addresses research on the interface between the immune system and GI physiology, dealing specifically with 2 major components of intestinal physiology, namely mucin production and muscle function in relation to host defence, primarily based on studies using the mouse-Trichinella spiralis system. These studies demonstrate that the infection-induced T helper 2 type immune response is critical in generating the alterations of infection-induced mucin production and muscle function, and that this immune-mediated alteration in gut physiology is associated with host defence mechanisms. In addition, by manipulating the host immune response, it is possible to modulate the accompanying physiological changes, which may have clinical relevance. In addition to enhancing our understanding of immunological control of GI physiological changes in the context of host defence against enteric infections, the data acquired using the mouse-T. spiralis model provide a basis for understanding the pathophysiology of a wide range of GI disorders associated with altered gut physiology.
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Kim HS, Park H, Lim JH, Choi SH, Park C, Lee SI, Conklin JL. Morphometric evaluation of oesophageal wall in patients with nutcracker oesophagus and ineffective oesophageal motility. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2008; 20:869-76. [PMID: 18452508 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2982.2008.01128.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The pathogenesis of nutcracker oesophagus (NE) and ineffective oesophageal motility (IEM) is unclear. Damage to the enteric nervous system or smooth muscle can cause oesophageal dysmotility. We tested the hypothesis that NE and IEM are associated with abnormal muscular or neural constituents of the oesophageal wall. Oesophageal manometry was performed in patients prior to total gastrectomy for gastric cancer. The oesophageal manometries were categorized as normal (n = 7), NE (n = 13), or IEM (n = 5). Histologic examination of oesophageal tissue obtained during surgery was performed after haematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and trichrome staining. Oesophageal innervation was examined after immunostaining for protein gene product-9.5 (PGP-9.5), choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) and neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS). There were no significant differences in inner circular smooth muscle thickness or degree of fibrosis among the three groups. Severe muscle fibre loss was found in four of five patients with IEM. The density of PGP-9.5-reactive neural structures was not different among the three groups. The density of ChAT immunostaining in the myenteric plexus (MP) was significantly greater in patients with NE (P < 0.05) and the density of nNOS immunostaining in the circular muscle (CM) was significantly greater in IEM patients (P < 0.05). The ChAT/nNOS ratio in both MP and CM was significantly greater in NE patients. NE may result from an imbalance between the excitatory and inhibitory innervation of the oesophagus, because more than normal numbers of ChAT-positive myenteric neurones are seen in NE. Myopathy and/or increased number of nNOS neurones may contribute to the hypocontractile motor activity of IEM.
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Affiliation(s)
- H S Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Institute of Gastroenterology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Bliss SK, Bliss SP, Beiting DP, Alcaraz A, Appleton JA. IL-10 Regulates Movement of Intestinally Derived CD4+T Cells to the Liver. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2007; 178:7974-83. [PMID: 17548634 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.178.12.7974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Diseases that affect the intestine may have hepatic manifestations, but the mechanisms involved in establishing hepatic disease secondarily remain poorly understood. We previously reported that IL-10 knockout (KO) mice developed severe necrotizing hepatitis following oral infection with Trichinella spiralis. In this study, we used this model of intestinal inflammation to further examine the role of IL-10 in regulating hepatic injury. Hepatic damage was induced by migrating newborn larvae. By delivering the parasite directly into the portal vein, we demonstrated that an ongoing intestinal immune response was necessary for the development of hepatitis. Intestinally derived CD4+ cells increased in the livers of IL-10 KO mice, and Ab-mediated blockade of MAdCAM-1 inhibited the accumulation of CD4+alpha(4)beta(7)+ cells in the liver. Moreover, adoptive transfer of intestinally primed CD4+ T cells from IL-10 KO mice caused hepatitis in infected immunodeficient animals. Conversely, transfer of wild-type donor cells reduced the severity of hepatic inflammation in IL-10 KO recipients, demonstrating regulatory activity. Our results revealed that IL-10 prevented migration of intestinal T cells to the liver and inhibited the development of hepatitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan K Bliss
- James A. Baker Institute for Animal Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA.
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20
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Luebke RW. Nematodes as host resistance models for detection of immunotoxicity. Methods 2007; 41:38-47. [PMID: 16938464 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2006.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2006] [Accepted: 06/26/2006] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Greater susceptibility to infection is a hallmark of compromised immune function in humans and animals, and is often considered the benchmark against which the predictive value of immune function tests are compared. The focus of this paper is resistance to infection with the parasitic nematode Trichinella spiralis as a model of host resistance. Topics include overviews of parasite biology, host immune responses that limit infection and methods used to evaluate the host response to infection. Detailed protocols are provided for adult and larval parasite counts, female parasite fecundity, parasite antigen-driven lymphocyte proliferation and antibody responses to infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert W Luebke
- Immunotoxicology Branch, Experimental Toxicology Division, National Health and Environmental Effects Laboratory, Office of Research and Development, United States Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, USA.
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Vallance BA, Radojevic N, Hogaboam CM, Deng Y, Gauldie J, Collins SM. IL-4 gene transfer to the small bowel serosa leads to intestinal inflammation and smooth muscle hyperresponsiveness. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2007; 292:G385-94. [PMID: 17215437 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00065.2006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Intestinal mucosal inflammation can lead to altered function of the underlying smooth muscle, which becomes hyperreactive to most contractile stimuli. Through nematode parasite infection models, T helper type 2 (Th2) cytokines have been implicated in intestinal muscle dysfunction; however, the mechanisms involved and the relevance of these findings to other forms of intestinal inflammation are unclear. Through gene transfer, we explored whether the Th2 cytokine IL-4 can mediate changes in longitudinal muscle function in the context of an adenoviral infection. Following abdominal surgery on mice, control beta-galactosidase-encoding recombinant adenoviruses and IL-4-encoding adenoviruses were applied to the serosal surface of the jejunum, leading to infection of cells in the serosa and in the mesentery. Marker transgene expression lasted for 3 wk and was accompanied by the recruitment of macrophages, lymphocytes, and neutrophils into the peritoneal cavity and mild inflammation at the site of infection. IL-4 transgene expression led to a stronger inflammatory response characterized by tissue eosinophilia and increased numbers of peritoneal mast cells and plasma cells. Whereas control virus infection had no effect on intestinal muscle function, infection with the IL-4 virus led to significant jejunal muscle hypercontractility, evident by day 7 postinfection. This modulation of smooth muscle function was shown to be IL-4 specific, since the application of an IL-5-encoding adenovirus induced tissue eosinophilia but did not alter muscle function. These results highlight an important causal role for IL-4 in the pathological regulation of enteric smooth muscle function and identify a novel strategy for gene transfer to the intestine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruce A Vallance
- Division of Gastroenterology, British Columbia's Children's Hospital, ACB, Rm. K4-188, 4480 Oak St., Vancouver, BC, Canada V6H 3V4.
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22
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Khan WI, Collins SM. Gut motor function: immunological control in enteric infection and inflammation. Clin Exp Immunol 2006; 143:389-97. [PMID: 16487236 PMCID: PMC1809621 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2249.2005.02979.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Alteration in gastrointestinal (GI) motility occurs in a variety of clinical settings which include acute enteritis, inflammatory bowel disease, intestinal pseudo-obstruction and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Most disorders affecting the GI tract arise as a result of noxious stimulation from the lumen via either microbes or chemicals. However, it is not clear how injurious processes initiated in the mucosa alter function in the deeper motor apparatus of the gut wall. Activation of immune cells may lead to changes in motor-sensory function in the gut resulting in the development of an efficient defence force which assists in the eviction of the noxious agent from the intestinal lumen. This review addresses the interface between immune and motor system in the context of host resistance based on the studies in murine model of enteric nematode parasite infection. These studies clearly demonstrate that the infection-induced T helper 2 type immune response is critical in producing the alterations of infection-induced intestinal muscle function in this infection and that this immune-mediated alteration in muscle function is associated with host defence mechanisms. In addition, by manipulating the host immune response, it is possible to modulate the accompanying muscle function, and this may have clinical relevance. These observations not only provide valuable information on the immunological control of gut motor function and its role in host defence in enteric infection, but also provide a basis for understanding pathophysiology of gastrointestinal motility disorders such as in IBS.
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Affiliation(s)
- W I Khan
- Intestinal Diseases Research Program, Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, 1200 Main Street West, Hamilton, Ontario, L8N 3Z5 Canada.
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23
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Crentsil V. Will corticosteroids and other anti-inflammatory agents be effective for diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome? Med Hypotheses 2005; 65:97-102. [PMID: 15893125 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2004.07.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2004] [Revised: 07/19/2004] [Accepted: 07/20/2004] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is one of several functional gastrointestinal disorders commonly encountered in both the clinical setting and the general population. The biopsychosocial model is currently believed to be a more complete explanatory mechanism of IBS symptom genesis and propagation. Gut inflammation and immune activation is one of the biological mechanisms for which evidence is emerging. Experimental parasitic infection of mice bowel resulted in elevated substance P levels and increased expression of cyclooxygenase 2 (COX 2) enzyme, prostaglandin E2, IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13. In IBS patients, increased cellularity and proximity of the inflammatory or immune cells to the nerve trunks of the bowel, elevated interleukin-1beta mRNA expression in mucosal biopsies, and increased inducible nitric oxide synthase and nitrotyrosine elaboration (indicative of lymphocyte activation) were observed. Corticosteroids given after the elimination of an experimentally applied parasite from the bowel of mice resulted in the reversal of persistent gut muscle dysfunction. Selective COX-2 inhibitors attenuated the increased bowel smooth muscle contractility resulting from parasite infection of mice gut. In humans, it has been observed that the relative risk of developing IBS in asthma patients was reduced by 60% by the use of oral steroids. Despite such preclinical and human evidence for the role of inflammation and immune activation in IBS, the efficacy of anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory agents has not been adequately investigated. Budesonide, a corticosteroid with a high mucosal activity and a low bioavailability, is an anti-inflammatory agent that may be worth investigating for its utility in diarrhea-predominant IBS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor Crentsil
- Division of Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, 5505 Hopkins Bayview Circle, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA.
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Akiho H, Deng Y, Blennerhassett P, Kanbayashi H, Collins SM. Mechanisms underlying the maintenance of muscle hypercontractility in a model of postinfective gut dysfunction. Gastroenterology 2005; 129:131-41. [PMID: 16012943 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2005.03.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Acute gastroenteritis is a strong risk factor for the development of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). We have developed an animal model in which transient acute infection leads to persistent muscle hypercontractility. Here, we investigate the mechanisms underlying the maintenance of this hypercontractility in the postinfective (PI) state. METHODS Muscle contraction and messenger RNA (mRNA) or protein expression of cytokines were examined from jejunal longitudinal muscle cells of NIH Swiss mice infected with Trichinella spiralis or incubated with or without cytokines. RESULTS During acute infection, interleukin (IL)-4 or IL-13, transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta1, and cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 were increased in the muscle layer ( P < .05). In the PI phase of the model, T helper (Th)2 cytokines returned to normal, but TGF-beta1 remained in the muscle ( P < .05). Exposure of muscle cells to IL-4 or IL-13 increased TGF-beta1 ( P < .01), COX-2 protein, and prostaglandin (PG)E 2 . Exposure of muscle cells to TGF-beta1 increased PGE 2 ( P < .05) and COX-2 protein. Incubation of tissue with IL-4, IL-13, TGF-beta1, or PGE 2 enhanced carbachol-induced muscle cell contractility ( P < .05). COX-2 inhibitor attenuated TGF-beta1-induced muscle hypercontractility ( P < .05). CONCLUSIONS These results support the hypothesis that Th2 cytokines induce muscle hypercontractility during infection by a direct action on smooth muscle. The maintenance of hypercontractility results from Th2 cytokine-induced expression of TGF-beta1 and the subsequent up-regulation of COX-2 and PGE 2 at the level of the smooth muscle cell. We propose that PI gut dysfunction reflects mediator production in the neuromuscular tissues and that this may occur in PI-IBS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hirotada Akiho
- Intestinal Diseases Research Program, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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Khan WI, Collins SM. Immune-mediated alteration in gut physiology and its role in host defence in nematode infection. Parasite Immunol 2005; 26:319-26. [PMID: 15679628 DOI: 10.1111/j.0141-9838.2004.00715.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Activation of the mucosal immune system of the gastrointestinal tract in nematode infection results in altered intestinal physiology, which includes changes in intestinal motility and mucus production. These changes are considered to be under direct immunological control rather than a non-specific consequence of the inflammatory reaction to the infective agent. However, little is known about the immunological basis for the changes in intestinal physiology accompanying nematode infection, or the precise role of these changes in host defence, which remains an important area to explore. In this review we describe the mechanisms by which the immune response to nematode infection influences the changes in two major cells of intestinal physiology, namely smooth muscle and goblet cells, and how these changes in intestinal physiology contribute to the host defence. Data clearly demonstrate that the T helper (Th) 2 type immune response generated by nematode infection plays an important role in the development of infection-induced intestinal muscle hypercontractility and goblet cell hyperplasia and that these immune-mediated changes in intestinal physiology are associated with worm expulsion. These observations strongly suggest that intestinal muscle contractility, goblet cell hyperplasia and worm expulsion share a common immunological basis and may be causally related. These data not only provide insights into host defence in nematode infection in the context of muscle function and goblet cell response, but also have broad implications in elucidating the pathophysiology of a wide range of gastrointestinal disorders associated with altered gut physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- W I Khan
- Intestinal Disease Research Program, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
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26
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Diez-Tascón C, Keane OM, Wilson T, Zadissa A, Hyndman DL, Baird DB, McEwan JC, Crawford AM. Microarray analysis of selection lines from outbred populations to identify genes involved with nematode parasite resistance in sheep. Physiol Genomics 2005; 21:59-69. [PMID: 15623564 DOI: 10.1152/physiolgenomics.00257.2004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal nematodes infect sheep grazing contaminated pastures. Traditionally, these have been controlled with anthelmintic drenching. The selection of animals resistant to nematodes is an alternative to complete reliance on drugs, but the genetic basis of host resistance is poorly understood. Using a 10,204 bovine cDNA microarray, we have examined differences in gene expression between genetically resistant and susceptible lambs previously field challenged with larval nematodes. Northern blot analysis for a selection of genes validated the data obtained from the microarrays. The results identified over one hundred genes that were differentially expressed based on conservative criteria. The microarray results were further analyzed to identify promoter motifs common to the differentially expressed genes. Motifs identified in upregulated gene promoters were primarily restricted to those promoters; however, motifs identified in downregulated gene promoters were also found in the promoters of upregulated genes but not in the promoters of genes whose expression was unaltered. Protein Annotators’ Assistant was used for lexical analysis of the differentially expressed genes, and Gene Ontology was used to look for metabolic and cell signaling pathways associated with parasite resistance. Two pathways represented by genes differentially expressed in resistant animals were those involved with the development of an acquired immune response and those related to the structure of the intestine smooth muscle. Genes involved in these processes appear from our analysis to be key genetic determinants of parasite resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Diez-Tascón
- AgResearch, Molecular Biology Unit, Department of Biochemistry, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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Cliffe LJ, Grencis RK. The Trichuris muris system: a paradigm of resistance and susceptibility to intestinal nematode infection. ADVANCES IN PARASITOLOGY 2004; 57:255-307. [PMID: 15504540 DOI: 10.1016/s0065-308x(04)57004-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Gastrointestinal helminths infect over 1 billion people worldwide. Although rarely causing death, such diseases are associated with high levels of morbidity and furthermore bear a large economic burden within areas where infections are endemic. Trichuris muris, a natural intestinal parasite of mice has been extensively utilised as a laboratory model for the study of human whipworm Trichuris trichiura. This has proven to be an invaluable tool in dissecting the different components involved in immunity to trichuris infection. Moreover, it has become a paradigm of cytokine mediated immunity to gastrointestinal nematodes in general. It is well established that resistance and susceptibility to T. muris infection are tightly associated with the generation of a T helper 2 (TH2) or a T helper 1 (TH1) immune response, respectively. This review gives a detailed account of the experimental work which has provided us with this knowledge, and further builds upon this, by focusing upon the most recent developments and important findings from this host-parasite relationship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura J Cliffe
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Manchester, Stopford Building, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
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Furness JB, Jones C, Nurgali K, Clerc N. Intrinsic primary afferent neurons and nerve circuits within the intestine. Prog Neurobiol 2004; 72:143-64. [PMID: 15063530 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2003.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 253] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2003] [Accepted: 12/03/2003] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Intrinsic primary afferent neurons (IPANs) of the enteric nervous system are quite different from all other peripheral neurons. The IPANs are transducers of physiological stimuli, including movement of the villi or distortion of the mucosa, contraction of intestinal muscle and changes in the chemistry of the contents of the gut lumen. They are the first neurons in intrinsic reflexes that influence the patterns of motility, secretion of fluid across the mucosal epithelium and local blood flow in the small and large intestines. In the guinea pig small intestine, where they have been characterized in detail, IPANs have Dogiel type II morphology, that is they are large round or oval neurons with multiple processes, some of which end close to the luminal surface of the intestine, and some of which form synapses with enteric interneurons, motor neurons and with other IPANs. The IPANs have well-defined ionic currents through which their excitability, and their functions in enteric nerve circuits, is determined. These include voltage-gated Na(+) and Ca(2+) currents, a long lasting calcium-activated K(+) current, and a hyperpolarization-activated cationic current. The IPANs exhibit long-term changes in their states of excitation that can be induced by extended periods of low frequency activity in synaptic inputs and by inflammatory mediators, either applied directly or released during an inflammatory challenge. The IPANs may be involved in pathological changes in enteric function following inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- John B Furness
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology and Centre for Neuroscience, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic. 3010, Australia.
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Dunlop SP, Jenkins D, Neal KR, Naesdal J, Borgaonker M, Collins SM, Spiller RC. Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of prednisolone in post-infectious irritable bowel syndrome. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2003; 18:77-84. [PMID: 12848628 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2036.2003.01640.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Post-infectious irritable bowel syndrome is associated with increased serotonin-containing enterochromaffin cells and lymphocytes in rectal biopsies. Animal studies have suggested that steroids reduce the lymphocyte response and suppress some of the post-infectious changes in neuromuscular function. AIM To evaluate whether steroids reduce the number of enterochromaffin cells and improve the symptoms of post-infectious irritable bowel syndrome. METHODS Twenty-nine patients with post-infectious irritable bowel syndrome underwent a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of 3 weeks of oral prednisolone, 30 mg/day. Mucosal enterochromaffin cells, T lymphocytes and mast cells were assessed in rectal biopsies before and after treatment, and bowel symptoms were recorded in a daily diary. RESULTS Initial enterochromaffin cell counts were increased and correlated with initial lamina propria T-lymphocyte counts (r = 0.460, P = 0.014). Enterochromaffin cell counts did not change significantly after either prednisolone (- 0.8% +/- 9.2%) or placebo (7.9% +/- 7.9%) (P = 0.5). Although lamina propria T-lymphocyte counts decreased significantly after prednisolone (22.0% +/- 5.6%, P = 0.003), but not after placebo (11.5% +/- 8.6%, P = 0.1), this was not associated with any significant treatment-related improvement in abdominal pain, diarrhoea, frequency or urgency. CONCLUSIONS Prednisolone does not appear to reduce the number of enterochromaffin cells or cause an improvement in symptoms in post-infectious irritable bowel syndrome. Other approaches to this persistent condition are indicated.
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Affiliation(s)
- S P Dunlop
- Division of Gastroenterology, University Hospital, Nottingham, UK
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31
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Khan WI, Richard M, Akiho H, Blennerhasset PA, Humphreys NE, Grencis RK, Van Snick J, Collins SM. Modulation of intestinal muscle contraction by interleukin-9 (IL-9) or IL-9 neutralization: correlation with worm expulsion in murine nematode infections. Infect Immun 2003; 71:2430-8. [PMID: 12704113 PMCID: PMC153239 DOI: 10.1128/iai.71.5.2430-2438.2003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune responses associated with intestinal nematode infections are characterized by the activation of T-helper 2 (Th2) cells. Previous studies demonstrated that during Trichinella spiralis infection, Th2 cells contribute to the development of intestinal muscle hypercontractility and to worm eviction from the gut, in part through signal transducer and activator of transcription factor 6 (Stat6). Interleukin-9 (IL-9), a Th2-cell-derived cytokine, has pleiotropic activities on various cells that are not mediated through Stat6. In this study, we investigated the role of IL-9 in the generation of enteric muscle hypercontractility in mice infected with the intestinal parasite T. spiralis and the cecal parasite Trichuris muris. Treatment of mice with IL-9 enhanced infection-induced jejunal muscle hypercontractility and accelerated worm expulsion in T. spiralis infection. These effects were associated with an up-regulation of IL-4 and IL-13 production from in vitro-stimulated spleen cells. In addition, increases in the level of intestinal goblet cells and in the level of mouse mucosal mast cell protease 1 (MMCP-1) in serum were observed in infected mice following IL-9 administration. However, the neutralization of IL-9 by anti-IL-9 vaccination or by anti-IL-9 antibody had no significant effect on worm expulsion or muscle contraction in T. spiralis-infected mice. In contrast, the neutralization of IL-9 significantly attenuated T. muris infection-induced colonic muscle hypercontractility and inhibited worm expulsion. The attenuated expulsion of the parasite by IL-9 neutralization was not accompanied by changes in goblet cell hyperplasia or the MMCP-1 level. These findings suggest that IL-9 contributes to intestinal muscle function and to host protective immunity and that its importance and contribution may differ depending on the type of nematode infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- W I Khan
- Intestinal Disease Research Program, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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Hart ML, Mosier DA, Chapes SK. Toll-like receptor 4-positive macrophages protect mice from Pasteurella pneumotropica-induced pneumonia. Infect Immun 2003; 71:663-70. [PMID: 12540543 PMCID: PMC145384 DOI: 10.1128/iai.71.2.663-670.2003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
This study investigates Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)-positive macrophages in early recognition and clearance of pulmonary bacteria. TLR4 is a trans-membrane receptor that is the primary recognition molecule for lipopolysaccharide of gram-negative bacteria. The TLR4(Lps-del) mouse strains C57BL10/ScN (B10) and STOCK Abb(tm1) TLR4(Lps-del) Slc11a1(s)(B10 x C2D) are susceptible to pulmonary infections and develop pneumonia when naturally or experimentally infected by the opportunistic bacterium Pasteurella pneumotropica. Since these mice have the TLR4(Lps-del) genotype, we hypothesized that reconstitution of mice with TLR4-positive macrophages would provide resistance to this bacterium. A cultured macrophage cell line (C2D macrophages) and bone marrow cells from C2D mice were adoptively transferred to B10 and B10 x C2D mice by intraperitoneal injection. C2D macrophages increased B10 and B10 x C2D mouse resistance to P. pneumotropica. In C2D-recipient mice there was earlier transcription of tumor necrosis factor alpha and chemokines JE and macrophage inflammatory protein 2 (MIP-2) in the lungs of B10 and B10 x C2D mice, and there was earlier transcription of KC and MIP-1alpha in B10 x C2D mice. In addition, the course of inflammation following experimental Pasteurella challenge was altered in C2D recipients. C2D macrophages also protected B10 x C2D mice, which lack CD4(+) T cells. These data indicate that macrophages are critical for pulmonary immunity and can provide host resistance to P. pneumotropica. This study indicates that TLR4-positive macrophages are important for early recognition and clearance of pulmonary bacterial infections.
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MESH Headings
- Adoptive Transfer
- Animals
- Cell Line
- Crosses, Genetic
- Drosophila Proteins
- Genes, MHC Class II
- Genetic Predisposition to Disease
- Macrophages/immunology
- Macrophages/metabolism
- Macrophages/transplantation
- Membrane Glycoproteins/deficiency
- Membrane Glycoproteins/genetics
- Membrane Glycoproteins/immunology
- Membrane Glycoproteins/metabolism
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Pasteurella/pathogenicity
- Pasteurella Infections/immunology
- Pasteurella Infections/microbiology
- Pasteurella Infections/prevention & control
- Pneumonia, Bacterial/immunology
- Pneumonia, Bacterial/microbiology
- Pneumonia, Bacterial/prevention & control
- Receptors, Cell Surface/deficiency
- Receptors, Cell Surface/genetics
- Receptors, Cell Surface/immunology
- Receptors, Cell Surface/metabolism
- Toll-Like Receptor 4
- Toll-Like Receptors
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcia L Hart
- Division of Biology, Kansas State University, Manhattan 66506, USA
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Akiho H, Blennerhassett P, Deng Y, Collins SM. Role of IL-4, IL-13, and STAT6 in inflammation-induced hypercontractility of murine smooth muscle cells. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2002; 282:G226-32. [PMID: 11804843 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.2002.282.2.g226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
T helper 2 (Th2) cytokines interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-13, which activate signal transducer and activator of transcription 6 (STAT6) are expressed in the muscularis externa during nematode infection and are candidate mediators of the associated hypercontractility. To determine the locus of action of these cytokines, we examined the IL-4- and IL-13-induced hypercontractility of the isolated muscle cells from STAT6 +/+ and STAT6 -/- mice. We compared the results with cells isolated from Trichinella spiralis-infected STAT6 +/+ and STAT6 -/- mice. Carbamylcholine chloride (Carbachol) induced the contraction of jejunal muscle cells in a concentration-dependent manner maximal contraction (R(max) 26.7 +/- 1.9%). Cells from T. spiralis-infected STAT6 -/- mice showed the hypertrophy (cell lengths 41.4 +/- 0.8 to 89.0 +/- 8.7 microm) and hypercontractility (R(max) 37.5 +/- 1.3%) induced by infection. IL-4Ralpha mRNA was detected in dispersed smooth muscle cells. Incubation of longitudinal muscle-myenteric plexus (LMMP) with IL-4 and IL-13 enhanced Carbachol-induced muscle contraction (R(max) 35.5 +/- 1.9 and 32.4 +/- 2.9%, respectively). Incubation of LMMP from STAT6 -/- mice with IL-4 did not enhance the contraction. The hypercontractility in T. spiralis-infected mice was attenuated in STAT6 -/- mice (P < 0.02). These results indicate both IL-4 and IL-13 induce hypercontractility of muscle cells via the STAT6 pathway, and this is the basis for hypercontractility observed in T. spiralis-infected mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hirotada Akiho
- Intestinal Diseases Research Program, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, 1200 Main Street West, Hamilton, Ontario L8N3Z5, Canada
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Ganta RR, Wilkerson MJ, Cheng C, Rokey AM, Chapes SK. Persistent Ehrlichia chaffeensis infection occurs in the absence of functional major histocompatibility complex class II genes. Infect Immun 2002; 70:380-8. [PMID: 11748204 PMCID: PMC127650 DOI: 10.1128/iai.70.1.380-388.2002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Human monocytic ehrlichiosis is an emerging tick-borne disease caused by the rickettsia Ehrlichia chaffeensis. We investigated the impact of two genes that control macrophage and T-cell function on murine resistance to E. chaffeensis. Congenic pairs of wild-type and toll-like receptor 4 (tlr4)- or major histocompatibility complex class II (MHC-II)-deficient mice were used for these studies. Wild-type mice cleared the infection within 2 weeks, and the response included macrophage activation and the synthesis of E. chaffeensis-specific Th1-type immunoglobulin G response. The absence of a functional tlr4 gene depressed nitric oxide and interleukin 6 secretion by macrophages and resulted in short-term persistent infections for > or =30 days. In the absence of MHC-II alleles, E. chaffeensis infections persisted throughout the entire 3-month evaluation period. Together, these data suggest that macrophage activation and cell-mediated immunity, orchestrated by CD4(+) T cells, are critical for conferring resistance to E. chaffeensis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roman Reddy Ganta
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas 66506, USA.
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Affiliation(s)
- S M Collins
- McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
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Galeazzi F, Lovato P, Blennerhassett PA, Haapala EM, Vallance BA, Collins SM. Neural change in Trichinella-infected mice is MHC II independent and involves M-CSF-derived macrophages. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2001; 281:G151-8. [PMID: 11408267 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.2001.281.1.g151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Intestinal inflammation due to nematode infection impairs enteric cholinergic nerve function and induces hypercontractility of intestinal muscle. Macrophages have been implicated in the neural changes, but the subpopulation and mechanism involved are unknown. We examined whether macrophages alter nerves by virtue of their ability to activate lymphocytes via major histocompatibility complex (MHC) II-restricted antigen presentation. We also attempted to evaluate the role of macrophage subsets using op/op mice deficient in macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF). ACh release from the myenteric plexus was measured in MHC II- and M-CSF-deficient (op/op) mice infected with Trichinella spiralis. F4/80-positive macrophages and interleukin-1 beta were constitutively present in op/op and op/? mice but increased only in op/? mice postinfection. After infection, a marked suppression of ACh release occurred only in infected MHC II-deficient and op/? mice. Muscle hypercontractility remained evident in infected op/? mice. Treatment with M-CSF restored macrophage number, and this was accompanied by suppression of cholinergic nerve function during infection. Thus M-CSF plays a critical role in this model by recruiting a subset of macrophages that selectively suppresses enteric neural function.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Galeazzi
- Intestinal Diseases Research Program, Health Sciences Center, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada L8N 3Z5
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Khan WI, Blennerhassett PA, Deng Y, Gauldie J, Vallance BA, Collins SM. IL-12 gene transfer alters gut physiology and host immunity in nematode-infected mice. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2001; 281:G102-10. [PMID: 11408260 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.2001.281.1.g102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Immune responses elicited by nematode parasite infections are characterized by T helper 2 (Th2) cell induction. The immunologic basis for changes in intestinal physiology accompanying nematode infection is poorly understood. This study examined whether worm expulsion and associated goblet cell hyperplasia and muscle contractility share a similar immune basis by shifting the response from Th2 to Th1 using interleukin-12 (IL-12) overexpression. We used a single administration of recombinant adenovirus vector expressing IL-12 (Ad5IL-12) in Trichinella spiralis-infected mice. Ad5IL-12 administered 1 day after infection prolonged worm survival and inhibited infection-induced muscle hypercontractility and goblet cell hyperplasia. This was correlated with upregulated interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) expression and downregulated IL-13 expression in the muscularis externa layer. We also observed increased IFN-gamma production and decreased IL-4 and IL-13 production from in vitro stimulated spleen and mesenteric lymph node cells of infected Ad5IL-12-treated mice. These results indicate that transfer and overexpression of the IL-12 gene during Th2-based nematode infection shifts the immune response toward Th1 and delays worm expulsion. Moreover, the immune response shift abrogated the physiological responses to infection, attenuating both muscle hypercontractility and goblet cell hyperplasia. These findings strongly indicate that worm expulsion, muscle hypercontractility, and goblet cell hyperplasia share a common immunologic basis and may be causally linked.
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Affiliation(s)
- W I Khan
- Intestinal Disease Research Program, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada L8N 3Z5
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Khan WI, Vallance BA, Blennerhassett PA, Deng Y, Verdu EF, Matthaei KI, Collins SM. Critical role for signal transducer and activator of transcription factor 6 in mediating intestinal muscle hypercontractility and worm expulsion in Trichinella spiralis-infected mice. Infect Immun 2001; 69:838-44. [PMID: 11159976 PMCID: PMC97960 DOI: 10.1128/iai.69.2.838-844.2001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Intestinal nematode infections in rats or mice are accompanied by intestinal muscle hyper contractility that may contribute to parasite expulsion from the gut. Previous studies demonstrated that both the expulsion of nematode parasites and the associated muscle hyper contractility are dependent on CD4(+) T helper cells. Nevertheless, the precise immunological mechanism underlying changes in intestinal muscle function remains to be determined. In this study, we investigated the role of interleukin 4 (IL-4) and signal transducer and activator of transcription factor 6 (STAT6) in the development of intestinal muscle hypercontractility and worm expulsion by infecting IL-4 and STAT6-deficient mice with Trichinella spiralis. Worm expulsion was almost normal in IL-4-deficient mice but substantially delayed in STAT6-deficient mice. Consistent with delayed worm expulsion, we also observed a marked attenuation of carbachol-induced muscle contraction in STAT6-deficient mice but only a moderate decrease in muscle hypercontractility in IL-4-deficient mice. In addition, we also observed severe impairment of T helper type 2 cytokine responses and intestinal mucosal mastocytosis in STAT6-deficient mice, although some degree of intestinal tissue eosinophilia was evident in these animals. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that STAT6-dependent changes in intestinal muscle function contribute to host protection in nematode infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- W I Khan
- Intestinal Disease Research Program, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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Abstract
The relationship between intestinal pathology and immune expulsion of gastrointestinal nematodes remains controversial. Parasite expulsion is associated with intestinal pathology in several model systems and both of these phenomena are T cell dependent. However, while immune expulsion of gastrointestinal helminth parasites is usually associated with Th2 responses, the effector mechanisms directly responsible for parasite loss have not been elucidated. In contrast, the intestinal pathology observed in many other disease models closely resembles that seen in helminth infections, but has been attributed to Th1 cytokines. We have used infection with the nematode Trichinella spiralis in mice defective for cytokines to demonstrate that although parasite expulsion is indeed IL-4 dependent, contrary to expectations, the enteropathy is also regulated by IL-4. Furthermore, abrogation of severe pathology in iNOS deficient and TNF receptor defective animals does not prevent parasite expulsion. TNF and iNOS are therefore involved in intestinal pathology in nematode infections, apparently under regulation by IL-4 and Th2 mediated responses. Therefore, it appears that the IL-4-dependent protective response against the parasite operates by a mechanism other than merely the gross degradation of the parasite's environment brought about by the immune enteropathy. However, it remains important to elucidate the protective mechanisms involved in parasite expulsion, which are still unclear.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Garside
- Department of Immunology and Bacteriology, University of Glasgow, Western Infirmary, Glasgow, UK
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