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Sikder S, Pierce D, Sarkar ER, McHugh C, Quinlan KGR, Giacomin P, Loukas A. Regulation of host metabolic health by parasitic helminths. Trends Parasitol 2024; 40:386-400. [PMID: 38609741 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2024.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
Obesity is a worldwide pandemic and major risk factor for the development of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and type 2 diabetes (T2D). T2D requires lifelong medical support to limit complications and is defined by impaired glucose tolerance, insulin resistance (IR), and chronic low-level systemic inflammation initiating from adipose tissue. The current preventative strategies include a healthy diet, controlled physical activity, and medication targeting hyperglycemia, with underexplored underlying inflammation. Studies suggest a protective role for helminth infection in the prevention of T2D. The mechanisms may involve induction of modified type 2 and regulatory immune responses that suppress inflammation and promote insulin sensitivity. In this review, the roles of helminths in counteracting MetS, and prospects for harnessing these protective mechanisms for the development of novel anti-diabetes drugs are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suchandan Sikder
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland 4878, Australia.
| | - Doris Pierce
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland 4878, Australia
| | - Eti R Sarkar
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland 4878, Australia; College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland 4878, Australia
| | - Connor McHugh
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland 4878, Australia; College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland 4878, Australia
| | - Kate G R Quinlan
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia
| | - Paul Giacomin
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland 4878, Australia; Macrobiome Therapeutics Pty Ltd, Cairns, Queensland 4878, Australia
| | - Alex Loukas
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland 4878, Australia; Macrobiome Therapeutics Pty Ltd, Cairns, Queensland 4878, Australia
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Rajamanickam A, Dasan B, Munisankar S, Nott S, Menon PA, Ahamed Shaik F, Chinnaiyan P, Nutman TB, Babu S. Impact of Strongyloides stercoralis infection on complement activation in Type 2 diabetes mellitus: Insights from a clinical and anthelmintic intervention study. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2024; 18:e0012048. [PMID: 38564496 PMCID: PMC10986927 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0012048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Numerous studies indicate a potential protective role of helminths in diabetes mellitus (DM) progression. The complement system, vital for host defense, plays a crucial role in tissue homeostasis and immune surveillance. Dysregulated complement activation is implicated in diabetic complications. We aimed to investigate the influence of the helminth, Strongyloides stercoralis (Ss) on complement activation in individuals with type 2 DM (T2D). METHODOLOGY We assessed circulating levels of complement proteins (C1q, C2, C3, C4, C4b, C5, C5a, and MBL (Lectin)) and their regulatory components (Factor B, Factor D, Factor H, and Factor I) in individuals with T2D with (n = 60) or without concomitant Ss infection (n = 58). Additionally, we evaluated the impact of anthelmintic therapy on these parameters after 6 months in Ss-infected individuals (n = 60). RESULTS Ss+DM+ individuals demonstrated reduced levels of complement proteins (C1q, C4b, MBL (Lectin), C3, C5a, and C3b/iC3b) and complement regulatory proteins (Factor B and Factor D) compared to Ss-DM+ individuals. Following anthelmintic therapy, there was a partial reversal of these levels in Ss+DM+ individuals. CONCLUSION Our findings indicate that Ss infection reduces complement activation, potentially mitigating inflammatory processes in individuals with T2D. The study underscores the complex interplay between helminth infections, complement regulation, and diabetes mellitus, offering insights into potential therapeutic avenues.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bindu Dasan
- NIH-NIAID-International Center for Excellence in Research, Chennai, India
| | | | - Sujatha Nott
- Infectious Diseases, Dignity Health, Chandler, Arizona, United States of America
| | | | - Fayaz Ahamed Shaik
- NIH-NIAID-International Center for Excellence in Research, Chennai, India
| | | | - Thomas B. Nutman
- Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Subash Babu
- NIH-NIAID-International Center for Excellence in Research, Chennai, India
- Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
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Liu J, Meng L, Liu Z, Lu M, Wang R. Identification of HDAC9 and ARRDC4 as potential biomarkers and targets for treatment of type 2 diabetes. Sci Rep 2024; 14:7083. [PMID: 38528189 PMCID: PMC10963792 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-57794-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
We aimed to identify the key potential insulin resistance (IR)-related genes and investigate their correlation with immune cell infiltration in type 2 diabetes (T2D). The GSE78721 dataset (68 diabetic patients and 62 controls) was downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database and utilized for single-sample gene set enrichment analysis. IR-related genes were obtained from the Comparative Toxicology Genetics Database, and the final IR-differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened by intersecting with the DEGs obtained from the GSE78721 datasets. Functional enrichment analysis was performed, and the networks of the target gene with microRNA, transcription factor, and drug were constructed. Hub genes were identified based on a protein-protein interaction network. Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression and Random Forest and Boruta analysis were combined to screen diagnostic biomarkers in T2D, which were validated using the GSE76894 (19 diabetic patients and 84 controls) and GSE9006 (12 diabetic patients and 24 controls) datasets. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction was performed to validate the biomarker expression in IR mice and control mice. In addition, infiltration of immune cells in T2D and their correlation with the identified markers were computed using CIBERSORT. We identified differential immune gene set regulatory T-cells in the GSE78721 dataset, and T2D samples were assigned into three clusters based on immune infiltration. A total of 2094 IR-DEGs were primarily enriched in response to endoplasmic reticulum stress. Importantly, HDAC9 and ARRDC4 were identified as markers of T2D and associated with different levels of immune cell infiltration. HDAC9 mRNA level were higher in the IR mice than in control mice, while ARRDC4 showed the opposite trend. In summary, we discovered potential vital biomarkers that contribute to immune cell infiltration associated with IR, which offers a new sight of immunotherapy for T2D.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Liu
- Endocrinology Department, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, No.215 Heping West Road, Shijiazhuang, 050000, People's Republic of China
| | - Lingzhen Meng
- General Medical Department, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, No.12 Jiankang Road, Shijiazhuang, 050000, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhihong Liu
- Endocrinology Department, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, No.215 Heping West Road, Shijiazhuang, 050000, People's Republic of China.
| | - Ming Lu
- Medical Department, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, No.215 Heping West Road, Shijiazhuang, 050000, People's Republic of China
| | - Ruiying Wang
- Endocrinology Department, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, No.215 Heping West Road, Shijiazhuang, 050000, People's Republic of China
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Kha S, Chaiyadet S, Saichua P, Tangkawatana S, Sripa B, Suttiprapa S. Opisthorchis viverrini excretory-secretory products suppress GLUT8 of cholangiocytes. Parasitol Res 2024; 123:161. [PMID: 38491300 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-024-08184-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
Opisthorchis viverrini infection and the subsequent bile duct cancer it induces remains a significant public health problem in Southeast Asia. Opisthorchiasis has been reported to cause reduced plasma glucose levels among infected patients. The underlying mechanism for this phenomenon is unclear. In the present study, evidence is presented to support the hypothesis that O. viverrini exploits host cholangiocyte glucose transporters (GLUTs) in a similar manner to that of rodent intestinal nematodes, to feed on unabsorbed glucose in the bile for survival. GLUT levels in a cholangiocyte H69 cell line co-cultured with excretory-secretory products of O. viverrini were examined using qPCR and immunoblotting. GLUT 8 mRNA and expressed proteins were found to be downregulated in H69 cells in the presence of O. viverrini. This suggests that O. viverrini alters glucose metabolism in cells within its vicinity by limiting transporter expression resulting in increased bile glucose that it can utilize and potentially explains the previously reported anti-insulin effect of opisthorchiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandy Kha
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, 40002, Thailand
- Graduate School, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, 40002, Thailand
| | - Sujittra Chaiyadet
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, 40002, Thailand
- Tropical Disease Research Center, WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Control of Opisthorchiasis, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, 40002, Thailand
| | - Prasert Saichua
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, 40002, Thailand
- Tropical Disease Research Center, WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Control of Opisthorchiasis, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, 40002, Thailand
| | - Sirikachorn Tangkawatana
- Tropical Disease Research Center, WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Control of Opisthorchiasis, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, 40002, Thailand
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, 40002, Thailand
| | - Banchob Sripa
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, 40002, Thailand
- Tropical Disease Research Center, WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Control of Opisthorchiasis, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, 40002, Thailand
| | - Sutas Suttiprapa
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, 40002, Thailand.
- Tropical Disease Research Center, WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Control of Opisthorchiasis, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, 40002, Thailand.
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Pierce DR, McDonald M, Merone L, Becker L, Thompson F, Lewis C, Ryan RYM, Hii SF, Zendejas-Heredia PA, Traub RJ, Field MA, Rahman T, Croese J, Loukas A, McDermott R, Giacomin PR. Effect of experimental hookworm infection on insulin resistance in people at risk of type 2 diabetes. Nat Commun 2023; 14:4503. [PMID: 37495576 PMCID: PMC10372076 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-40263-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The reduced prevalence of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes in countries with endemic parasitic worm infections suggests a protective role for worms against metabolic disorders, however clinical evidence has been non-existent. This 2-year randomised, double-blinded clinical trial in Australia of hookworm infection in 40 male and female adults at risk of type 2 diabetes assessed the safety and potential metabolic benefits of treatment with either 20 (n = 14) or 40 (n = 13) Necator americanus larvae (L3) or Placebo (n = 13) (Registration ACTRN12617000818336). Primary outcome was safety defined by adverse events and completion rate. Homoeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance, fasting blood glucose and body mass were key secondary outcomes. Adverse events were more frequent in hookworm-treated participants, where 44% experienced expected gastrointestinal symptoms, but completion rates were comparable to Placebo. Fasting glucose and insulin resistance were lowered in both hookworm-treated groups at 1 year, and body mass was reduced after L3-20 treatment at 2 years. This study suggests hookworm infection is safe in people at risk of type 2 diabetes and associated with improved insulin resistance, warranting further exploration of the benefits of hookworms on metabolic health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doris R Pierce
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Malcolm McDonald
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Lea Merone
- College of Health Sciences, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Luke Becker
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Fintan Thompson
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
- University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Chris Lewis
- College of Health Sciences, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Rachael Y M Ryan
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Sze Fui Hii
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Patsy A Zendejas-Heredia
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Rebecca J Traub
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Matthew A Field
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
- College of Public Health, Medical & Vet Sciences, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
- Immunogenomics Laboratory, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, NSW, Australia
| | - Tony Rahman
- The Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Prince Charles Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - John Croese
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Alex Loukas
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Robyn McDermott
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
- University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Paul R Giacomin
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia.
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Cytokines, Chemokines, Insulin and Haematological Indices in Type 2 Diabetic Male Sprague Dawley Rats Infected with Trichinella zimbabwensis. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/app12157743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disease induced by the inability to control high blood glucose level. Helminth-induced immunomodulation has been reported to prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), which, in turn, ameliorates insulin sensitivity. Therefore, there is a need to understand the underlying mechanisms utilized by helminths in metabolism and the induction of immuno-inflammatory responses during helminthic infection and T2DM comorbidity. This study aimed at using a laboratory animal model to determine the cytokines, chemokines and haematological indices in diabetic (T2DM) male Sprague Dawley (SD) rats infected with Trichinella zimbabwensis. One hundred and two male SD rats (160–180 g) were randomly selected into three experimental groups (i. T2DM-induced group (D) ii. T. zimbabwensis infected + T2DM group (TzD) and iii. T. zimbabwensis-infected group (Tz)). Rats selected for the D group and TzD group were injected with 40 mg/kg live weight of streptozotocin (STZ) intraperitoneally to induce T2DM, while animals in the Tz and TzD group were infected with T. zimbabwensis. Results showed that adult T. zimbabwensis worm loads and mean T. zimbabwensis larvae per gram (lpg) of rat muscle were significantly higher (p < 0.001) in the Tz group when compared to the TzD group. Blood glucose levels in the D group were significantly higher (p < 0.001) compared to the TzD group. An increase in insulin concentration was observed among the TzD group when compared to the D group. Liver and muscle glycogen decreased in the D when compared to the TzD group. A significant increase (p < 0.05) in red blood cells (RBCs) was observed in the D group when compared to the TzD and Tz groups. An increase in haematocrit, haemoglobin, white blood cells (WBCs), platelet, neutrophils and monocyte were observed in the D group when compared to the TzD group. TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-4, IL-10 and IL-13 concentrations were elevated in the TzD group when compared to the D and Tz groups, while IL-6 concentration showed a significant reduction in the Tz when compared to the D and the TzD groups. A significant increase in CCL5 in the D and TzD groups was observed in comparison to the Tz group. CXCL10 and CCL11 concentration also showed an increase in the TzD group in comparison to the Tz and the D groups. Overall, our results confirm that T. zimbabwensis, a parasite which produces tissue-dwelling larvae in the host, regulates T2DM driven inflammation to mediate a positive protective effect against T2DM outcomes.
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Queiroz-Glauss CP, Vieira MS, Gonçalves-Pereira MH, Almeida SS, Freire RH, Gomes MA, Alvarez-Leite JI, Santiago HC. Helminth infection modulates number and function of adipose tissue Tregs in high fat diet-induced obesity. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2022; 16:e0010105. [PMID: 35499991 PMCID: PMC9098094 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Epidemiological and experimental studies have shown a protective effect of helminth infections in weight gain and against the development of metabolic dysfunctions in the host. However, the mechanisms Treg cells exert in the helminth-obesity interface has been poorly investigated. The present study aimed to verify the influence of Heligmosomoides polygyrus infection in early stages of high fat diet-induced obesity. Principal findings The presence of infection was able to prevent exacerbated weight gain in mice fed with high fat diet when compared to non-infected controls. In addition, infected animals displayed improved insulin sensitivity and decreased fat accumulation in the liver. Obesity-associated inflammation was reduced in the presence of infection, demonstrated by lower levels of leptin and resistin, lower infiltration of Th1 and Th17 cells in adipose tissue, higher expression of IL10 and adiponectin, increased infiltration of Th2 and eosinophils in adipose tissue of infected animals. Of note, the parasite infection was associated with increased Treg frequency in adipose tissue which showed higher expression of cell surface markers of function and activation, like LAP and CD134. The infection could also increase adipose Treg suppressor function in animals on high fat diet. Conclusion These data suggest that H. polygyrus modulates adipose tissue Treg cells with implication for weight gain and metabolic syndrome. Helminth infections are known to modulate the immune system being responsible for protecting the host from developing allergic and autoimmune disorders (Hygiene Hypothesis). We hypothesized that the same immunomodulatory effect could have an impact on immunometabolic diseases, such as obesity and its linked diseases such as type 2 diabetes. Weight disorders have reached epidemic levels, nearly tripling since 1975 and being responsible for almost 5 million premature deaths each year, but have been spared in areas of high helminth prevalence. To test our hypothesis C57BL/6 male mice were fed control or high fat diet, for five weeks, in the presence or not of infection with the worm Heligmosomoides polygyrus. Weight gain, development of metabolic disorders, inflammation and cellular migration to the adipose tissue were evaluated. In accordance with our hypothesis, we found that the presence of infection prevented the exacerbated weight gain and also improved metabolic parameters in animals fed a high fat diet. This was associated with the infection’s ability to modulate parameters of a cell responsible for regulatory functions: Tregs. In the light of these findings, helminth infection could be protective against weight gain and metabolic disturbances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camila P. Queiroz-Glauss
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Mariana S. Vieira
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Marcela Helena Gonçalves-Pereira
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Stephanie S. Almeida
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Rachel H. Freire
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Maria A. Gomes
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Jacqueline I. Alvarez-Leite
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Helton C. Santiago
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
- * E-mail:
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Gao YR, Zhang RH, Li R, Tang CL, Pan Q, Pen P. The effects of helminth infections against type 2 diabetes. Parasitol Res 2021; 120:1935-1942. [PMID: 34002262 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-021-07189-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) is a prevalent inflammation-related disease characterized by insulin resistance and elevated blood glucose levels. The high incidence rate of T2D in Western societies may be due to environmental conditions, including reduced worm exposure. In human and animal models, some helminths, such as Schistosoma, Nippostrongylus, Strongyloides, and Heligmosomoides, and their products reportedly ameliorate or prevent T2D progression. T2D induces adaptive immune pathways involved in the inhibition of type 1 immune responses, promotion of type 2 immune responses, and expansion of regulatory T cells and innate immune cells, such as macrophages, eosinophils, and group 2 innate lymphoid cells. Among immune cells expanded in T2DM, type 2 immune cells and macrophages are the most important and may have synergistic effects. The stimulation of host immunity by helminth infections also promotes interactions between the innate and adaptive immune systems. In this paper, we provide a comprehensive review of intestinal helminths' protective effects against T2D.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Ru Gao
- Medical Department, City College, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430083, China
| | - Rong-Hui Zhang
- Wuchang Hospital Affiliated to Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430063, China
| | - Ru Li
- Wuchang Hospital Affiliated to Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430063, China
| | - Chun-Lian Tang
- Wuchang Hospital Affiliated to Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430063, China.
| | - Qun Pan
- Wuchang Hospital Affiliated to Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430063, China.
| | - Peng Pen
- Wuhan Institute for Tuberculosis Control, Wuhan Pulmonary Hospital, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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Douglas B, Oyesola O, Cooper MM, Posey A, Tait Wojno E, Giacomin PR, Herbert DR. Immune System Investigation Using Parasitic Helminths. Annu Rev Immunol 2021; 39:639-665. [PMID: 33646858 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-immunol-093019-122827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Coevolutionary adaptation between humans and helminths has developed a finely tuned balance between host immunity and chronic parasitism due to immunoregulation. Given that these reciprocal forces drive selection, experimental models of helminth infection are ideally suited for discovering how host protective immune responses adapt to the unique tissue niches inhabited by these large metazoan parasites. This review highlights the key discoveries in the immunology of helminth infection made over the last decade, from innate lymphoid cells to the emerging importance of neuroimmune connections. A particular emphasis is placed on the emerging areas within helminth immunology where the most growth is possible, including the advent of genetic manipulation of parasites to study immunology and the use of engineered T cells for therapeutic options. Lastly,we cover the status of human challenge trials with helminths as treatment for autoimmune disease, which taken together, stand to keep the study of parasitic worms at the forefront of immunology for years to come.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bonnie Douglas
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA; ,
| | - Oyebola Oyesola
- Department of Immunology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98109, USA; ,
| | - Martha M Cooper
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland 4878, Australia; ,
| | - Avery Posey
- Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA; .,Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA.,Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA
| | - Elia Tait Wojno
- Department of Immunology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98109, USA; ,
| | - Paul R Giacomin
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland 4878, Australia; ,
| | - De'Broski R Herbert
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA; ,
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Zhang B, Gems D. Gross ways to live long: Parasitic worms as an anti-inflammaging therapy? eLife 2021; 10:65180. [PMID: 33526169 PMCID: PMC7853715 DOI: 10.7554/elife.65180] [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: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Evolutionary medicine argues that disease can arise because modern conditions do not match those in which we evolved. For example, a decline in exposure to commensal microbes and gastrointestinal helminths in developed countries has been linked to increased prevalence of allergic and autoimmune inflammatory disorders (the hygiene hypothesis). Accordingly, probiotic therapies that restore ‘old friend’ microbes and helminths have been explored as Darwinian treatments for these disorders. A further possibility is that loss of old friend commensals also increases the sterile, aging-associated inflammation known as inflammaging, which contributes to a range of age-related diseases, including cardiovascular disease, dementia, and cancer. Interestingly, Crowe et al., 2020 recently reported that treatment with a secreted glycoprotein from a parasitic nematode can protect against murine aging by induction of anti-inflammatory mechanisms. Here, we explore the hypothesis that restorative helminth therapy would have anti-inflammaging effects. Could worm infections provide broad-spectrum protection against age-related disease?
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruce Zhang
- Institute of Healthy Ageing, and Research Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - David Gems
- Institute of Healthy Ageing, and Research Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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Almugadam BS, Ibrahim MK, Liu Y, Chen SM, Wang CH, Shao CY, Ren BW, Tang L. Association of urogenital and intestinal parasitic infections with type 2 diabetes individuals: a comparative study. BMC Infect Dis 2021; 21:20. [PMID: 33413119 PMCID: PMC7789604 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-020-05629-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Globally, urogenital and intestinal parasitosis remain significant health challenges. They are associated with rising morbidity, death, and many harmful outcomes. A little is known concerning parasitosis and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Our study planned to investigate the urogenital and intestinal parasitic infections among type 2 diabetes patients compare to non-diabetic (Control) individuals and examine the intensity of helminthiasis in both groups. METHODS At Kosti Teaching Hospital (Sudan), 300 Urine and 300 stool samples have collected from 150 type 2 diabetes and 150 control individuals, along with the socio-demographic data using a structured questionnaire. The parasitic infections were examined by direct sedimentation technique for urine specimens. Whereas, for fecal samples, simple-direct saline, formal-ether concentration, Kato-Katz, and modified Ziehl-Neelsen techniques were used. RESULTS Out of 150 type 2 diabetes patients studied, 31 (20.6%) and 14 (9.3%) had intestinal parasitosis and urogenital schistosomiasis, respectively. Whereas, 16 (10.6%) and 8 (5.3%) of the control group were infected, respectively. Compared to the control group, the odds of testing positive for either urogenital schistosomiasis (AOR: 2.548, 95% CI: 0.836-7.761, P = 0.100) or intestinal parasitic diseases (AOR: 2.099, 95% CI: 0.973-4.531, P = 0.059) were greater in diabetic individuals. Likewise, the intensities of helminthiasis were much higher in the diabetic patients and positively correlated with the duration of illness. The rate of urogenital schistosomiasis was also significantly different among the disease duration subcategories. CONCLUSIONS Our study has highlighted the relationship of type 2 diabetes with urogenital and intestinal parasitic infections and enhanced our knowledge about the frequency of particular urogenital and intestinal parasites as well as the intensity of helminths infection in type 2 diabetes compared to non-diabetic individuals, which are important for further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Babiker Saad Almugadam
- Department of Microecology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning China
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medical Laboratory Sciences, University of El Imam El Mahdi, Kosti, White Nile State Sudan
| | | | - Yinhui Liu
- Department of Microecology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning China
| | - Shen-min Chen
- Department of Microecology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning China
| | - Chun-hao Wang
- Department of Microecology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning China
| | - Chen-yi Shao
- Department of Microecology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning China
| | - Bao-wei Ren
- Department of Microecology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning China
| | - Li Tang
- Department of Microecology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning China
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12
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Filbey KJ, Mehta PH, Meijlink KJ, Pellefigues C, Schmidt AJ, Le Gros G. The Gastrointestinal Helminth Heligmosomoides bakeri Suppresses Inflammation in a Model of Contact Hypersensitivity. Front Immunol 2020; 11:950. [PMID: 32508831 PMCID: PMC7249854 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Helminths regulate host immune responses to ensure their own long-term survival. Numerous studies have demonstrated that these helminth-induced regulatory mechanisms can also limit host inflammatory responses in several disease models. We used the Heligmosomoides bakeri (Hb) infection model (also known as H. polygyrus or H. polygyrus bakeri in the literature) to test whether such immune regulation affects skin inflammatory responses induced by the model contact sensitiser dibutyl phthalate fluorescein isothiocynate (DBP-FITC). Skin lysates from DBP-FITC-sensitized, Hb-infected mice produced less neutrophil specific chemokines and had significantly reduced levels of skin thickening and cellular inflammatory responses in tissue and draining lymph nodes (LNs) compared to uninfected mice. Hb-induced suppression did not appear to be mediated by regulatory T cells, nor was it due to impaired dendritic cell (DC) activity. Mice cleared of infection remained unresponsive to DBP-FITC sensitization indicating that suppression was not via the secretion of Hb-derived short-lived regulatory molecules, although long-term effects on cells cannot be ruled out. Importantly, similar helminth-induced suppression of inflammation was also seen in the draining LN after intradermal injection of the ubiquitous allergen house dust mite (HDM). These findings demonstrate that Hb infection attenuates skin inflammatory responses by suppressing chemokine production and recruitment of innate cells. These findings further contribute to the growing body of evidence that helminth infection can modulate inflammatory and allergic responses via a number of mechanisms with potential to be exploited in therapeutic and preventative strategies in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kara J Filbey
- Malaghan Institute of Medical Research, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Palak H Mehta
- Malaghan Institute of Medical Research, Wellington, New Zealand
| | | | | | | | - Graham Le Gros
- Malaghan Institute of Medical Research, Wellington, New Zealand
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13
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Khudhair Z, Alhallaf R, Eichenberger RM, Whan J, Kupz A, Field M, Krause L, Wilson DT, Daly NL, Giacomin P, Sotillo J, Loukas A. Gastrointestinal Helminth Infection Improves Insulin Sensitivity, Decreases Systemic Inflammation, and Alters the Composition of Gut Microbiota in Distinct Mouse Models of Type 2 Diabetes. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:606530. [PMID: 33613446 PMCID: PMC7892786 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.606530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a major health problem and is considered one of the top 10 diseases leading to death globally. T2D has been widely associated with systemic and local inflammatory responses and with alterations in the gut microbiota. Microorganisms, including parasitic worms and gut microbes have exquisitely co-evolved with their hosts to establish an immunological interaction that is essential for the formation and maintenance of a balanced immune system, including suppression of excessive inflammation. Herein we show that both prophylactic and therapeutic infection of mice with the parasitic hookworm-like nematode, Nippostrongylus brasiliensis, significantly reduced fasting blood glucose, oral glucose tolerance and body weight gain in two different diet-induced mouse models of T2D. Helminth infection was associated with elevated type 2 immune responses including increased eosinophil numbers in the mesenteric lymph nodes, liver and adipose tissues, as well as increased expression of IL-4 and alternatively activated macrophage marker genes in adipose tissue, liver and gut. N. brasiliensis infection was also associated with significant compositional changes in the gut microbiota at both the phylum and order levels. Our findings show that N. brasiliensis infection drives changes in local and systemic immune cell populations, and that these changes are associated with a reduction in systemic and local inflammation and compositional changes in the gut microbiota which cumulatively might be responsible for the improved insulin sensitivity observed in infected mice. Our findings indicate that carefully controlled therapeutic hookworm infection in humans could be a novel approach for treating metabolic syndrome and thereby preventing T2D.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zainab Khudhair
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Rafid Alhallaf
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Ramon M. Eichenberger
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Jen Whan
- Advanced Analytical Center, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Andreas Kupz
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Matt Field
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
- John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | | | - David T. Wilson
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Norelle L. Daly
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Paul Giacomin
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Javier Sotillo
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Alex Loukas
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
- *Correspondence: Alex Loukas,
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14
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. N, Irawati N, Darwin E, Lipoeto NI. Relationship Between Interleukin-10, Cholesterol and Blood Glucose Levels in Geohelminth Positive Adolescents and Adults. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL SCIENCES 2019. [DOI: 10.3923/jms.2020.18.23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
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15
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Lumb FE, Crowe J, Doonan J, Suckling CJ, Selman C, Harnett MM, Harnett W. Synthetic small molecule analogues of the immunomodulatory Acanthocheilonema viteae product ES-62 promote metabolic homeostasis during obesity in a mouse model. Mol Biochem Parasitol 2019; 234:111232. [PMID: 31634505 DOI: 10.1016/j.molbiopara.2019.111232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Revised: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/15/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
One of the most rapidly increasing human public health problems is obesity, whose sequelae like type-2 diabetes, represent continuously worsening, life-long conditions. Over the last 15 years, data have begun to emerge from human and more frequently, mouse studies, that support the idea that parasitic worm infection can protect against this condition. We have therefore investigated the potential of two synthetic small molecule analogues (SMAs) of the anti-inflammatory Acanthocheilonema viteae product ES-62, to protect against metabolic dysfunction in a C57BL/6 J mouse model of high calorie diet-induced obesity. We found weekly subcutaneous administration of the SMAs in combination (1 μg of each), starting one week before continuous exposure to high calorie diet (HCD), decreased fasting glucose levels and reversed the impaired glucose clearance observed in male mice, when measured at approximately 7 and 13 weeks after exposure to HCD. Fasting glucose levels were also-reduced in male mice fed a HCD for some 38 weeks when given SMA-treatment 13 weeks after the start of HCD, indicating an SMA-therapeutic potential. For the most part, protective effects were not observed in female mice. SMA treatment also conferred protection against each of reduced ileum villus length and liver fibrosis, but more prominently in female mice. Previous studies in mice indicate that protection against metabolic dysfunction is usually associated with polarisation of the immune system towards a type-2/anti-inflammatory direction but our attempts to correlate improved metabolic parameters with such changes were unsuccessful. Further analysis will therefore be required to define mechanism of action. Nevertheless, overall our data clearly show the potential of the drug-like SMAs as a preventative or treatment for metabolic dysregulation associated with obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felicity E Lumb
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G4 0RE, UK
| | - Jenny Crowe
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
| | - James Doonan
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G4 0RE, UK
| | - Colin J Suckling
- Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G1 1XL, UK
| | - Colin Selman
- Glasgow Ageing Research Network (GARNER), Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
| | - Margaret M Harnett
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
| | - William Harnett
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G4 0RE, UK.
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16
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van der Zande HJP, Zawistowska-Deniziak A, Guigas B. Immune Regulation of Metabolic Homeostasis by Helminths and Their Molecules. Trends Parasitol 2019; 35:795-808. [PMID: 31492623 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2019.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2019] [Revised: 07/28/2019] [Accepted: 07/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Since time immemorial, humans have coevolved with a wide variety of parasitic helminths that have contributed to shape their immune system. The recent eradication of helminth infections in modern societies has coincided with a spectacular rise in inflammatory metabolic diseases, such as obesity, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, and type 2 diabetes. Landmark studies in the emerging field of immunometabolism have highlighted the central role of the immune system in regulating metabolic functions, notably in adipose tissue, liver, and the gut. In this review we discuss how helminths, which are among the strongest natural inducers of type 2 immunity, and some of their unique immunomodulatory molecules, may contribute to the maintenance of tissue-specific and whole-body metabolic homeostasis and protection against obesity-associated meta-inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anna Zawistowska-Deniziak
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands; Witold Stefański Institute of Parasitology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Bruno Guigas
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands. @lumc.nl
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17
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Moyat M, Coakley G, Harris NL. The interplay of type 2 immunity, helminth infection and the microbiota in regulating metabolism. Clin Transl Immunology 2019; 8:e01089. [PMID: 31719981 PMCID: PMC6837856 DOI: 10.1002/cti2.1089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2019] [Revised: 10/18/2019] [Accepted: 10/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Type 2 immunity has recently emerged as a critical player in metabolic status, with numerous studies investigating the role of type 2 immune cells within adipose tissue. Metabolic dysfunction is often characterised as a low-grade or chronic inflammatory state within tissues, and type 2 immunity may facilitate a return to metabolic homeostasis. A complex network of type 2 resident cells including M2 macrophages, eosinophils and ILC2s has been identified within adipose tissue. Although the effector cells in this equilibrium have not been clearly identified, any alteration of the type 2 microenvironment resulted in an altered metabolic state. Historically, the type 2 immune response has been associated with helminth infection. The type 2 immune response drives host resistance and plays an important role in promoting tissue repair following the migration of helminth larvae through tissues. Although helminths are largely eradicated in developed countries, infection rates remain high in poor communities within the developing world. Interestingly, there is strong evidence that helminth infection is inversely correlated with autoimmune or inflammatory disorders. Recently, an increasing amount of epidemiological and field studies suggest that it could be the same for obesity and metabolic syndrome. In the current review, we summarise the literature linking type 2 immunity to improved adipose tissue function. We then discuss more recent evidence indicating that helminth infection can provide protection against metabolic syndrome. Lastly, we explore the possible contributions of altered nutrient uptake, adipose tissue function and/or the intestinal microbiota with the ability of helminths to alter metabolic status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mati Moyat
- Department of Immunology and PathologyMonash University Central Clinical SchoolMelbourneVICAustralia
| | - Gillian Coakley
- Department of Immunology and PathologyMonash University Central Clinical SchoolMelbourneVICAustralia
| | - Nicola L Harris
- Department of Immunology and PathologyMonash University Central Clinical SchoolMelbourneVICAustralia
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18
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Sanya RE, Nkurunungi G, Andia Biraro I, Mpairwe H, Elliott AM. A life without worms. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2018; 111:3-11. [PMID: 28340138 PMCID: PMC5412073 DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/trx010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2017] [Accepted: 02/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Worms have co-evolved with humans over millions of years. To survive, they manipulate host systems by modulating immune responses so that they cause (in the majority of hosts) relatively subtle harm. Anthelminthic treatment has been promoted as a measure for averting worm specific pathology and to mitigate subtle morbidities which may include effects on anaemia, growth, cognitive function and economic activity. With our changing environment marked by rapid population growth, urbanisation, better hygiene practices and anthelminthic treatment, there has been a decline in worm infections and other infectious diseases and a rise in non-communicable diseases such as allergy, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. This review reflects upon our age-old interaction with worms, and the broader ramifications of life without worms for vaccine responses and susceptibility to other infections, and for allergy-related and metabolic disease. We touch upon the controversy around the benefits of mass drug administration for the more-subtle morbidities that have been associated with worm infections and then focus our attention on broader, additional aspects of life without worms, which may be either beneficial or detrimental.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard E Sanya
- MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit, Uganda Virus Research Institute, P.O. Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda.,College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Gyaviira Nkurunungi
- MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit, Uganda Virus Research Institute, P.O. Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda.,Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London WC1E 7HT, UK
| | | | - Harriet Mpairwe
- MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit, Uganda Virus Research Institute, P.O. Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Alison M Elliott
- MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit, Uganda Virus Research Institute, P.O. Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda.,Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London WC1E 7HT, UK
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19
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Intestinal Immunomodulatory Cells (T Lymphocytes): A Bridge between Gut Microbiota and Diabetes. Mediators Inflamm 2018; 2018:9830939. [PMID: 29713241 PMCID: PMC5866888 DOI: 10.1155/2018/9830939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2017] [Revised: 01/10/2018] [Accepted: 01/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the most familiar chronic diseases threatening human health. Recent studies have shown that the development of diabetes is closely related to an imbalance of the gut microbiota. Accordingly, there is increasing interest in how changes in the gut microbiota affect diabetes and its underlying mechanisms. Immunomodulatory cells play important roles in maintaining the normal functioning of the human immune system and in maintaining homeostasis. Intestinal immunomodulatory cells (IICs) are located in the intestinal mucosa and are regarded as an intermediary by which the gut microbiota affects physiological and pathological properties. Diabetes can be regulated by IICs, which act as a bridge linking the gut microbiota and DM. Understanding this bridge role of IICs may clarify the mechanisms by which the gut microbiota contributes to DM. Based on recent research, we summarize this process, thereby providing a basis for further studies of diabetes and other similar immune-related diseases.
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