Molecular events by which dendritic cells promote Th2 immune protection in helmith infection

Infect Dis (Lond). 2016 Oct;48(10):715-20. doi: 10.1080/23744235.2016.1194529. Epub 2016 Jun 27.

Abstract

Helminth parasites are a major cause of global infectious diseases, affecting nearly one quarter of the world's population. The common feature of helminth infections is to skew the immune system towards a T-helper 2 (Th2) response that helps to control disease. Dendritic cells (DCs), which are professional antigen-presenting cells, play a critical role for Th2 skewing against helminth parasites. However, the molecular mechanisms by which helminth antigens activate DCs for Th2 polarization have not yet been clearly defined. This review provides a focused update on the major role of DCs for inducing and/or enhancing Th2 immune responses in helminthic infection and will discuss the main signalling-dependent and independent mechanisms by which helminth antigens activate DCs for Th2 skewing.

Keywords: Dendritic cells; helminths; type-2 response.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antigens, Helminth / immunology*
  • Dendritic Cells / immunology*
  • Helminthiasis / immunology*
  • Humans
  • Th2 Cells / immunology*

Substances

  • Antigens, Helminth