Pulmonary cycle of Strongyloides venezuelensis: study on dexamethasone immunomodulation in the remodeling of bronchial wall and pulmonary parenchyma

Abstract

Strongyloidiasis are intestinal parasitosis with an obligatory pulmonary cycle. They are caused by different species of Strongyloides, presenting a cosmopolitan distribution. The immune response is typically associated with Th2 type, activated CD4 T cells, which amplify the cellular response through the secretion of cytokines, key coordinators of effector function in an attempt to eliminate the parasite. The cellular response is characterized by increased production and migration of eosinophils, mast cells and macrophages to the target-tissues, such as lungs and intestine. In the lungs, the parasites cause a short-lived inflammatory reaction leading to a pulmonary remodeling, characterized by increased mucus production and hyperreactivity of the bronchial musculature, similar to allergic processes, such as asthma. However, little has been published in this area. On the other hand, glucocorticoids are immunomodulator drugs used to suppress the immune response, playing an important role in strongyloidiasis and promoting hyperinfection and spreading of the parasite. The aim of this study is to investigate the remodeling of the bronchial wall and the alveolar parenchyma in consequence of larvae passage during infection of Strongyloides venezuelensis infection and determines the interference of dexamethasone treatment. This project represents an innovative proposal for the study of the mechanisms involved in this parasite infection and can provide a new contribution to knowledge in this important area. (AU)