Modulation of chagasic cardiomyopathy by interleukin-4: dissociation between inflammation and tissue parasitism.
Chronic chagasic cardiomyopathy (CChC) is characterized by an inflammatory reaction which may eventually lead to heart enlargement, arrythmia, and death. As described herein, interleukin-4-deficient mice mount increased specific T helper (Th) 1 immune responses when infected with Trypanosoma cruzi, as compared to wild-type mice. Interestingly, these mice had reduced parasitism and mortality and exacerbated inflammation in their hearts, demonstrating a clear dissociation between inflammation and parasite load. The modulation of these phenomena so as to maximize host and parasite survivals may depend on a fine balance between Th responses, in which a Th1 response will, on one hand, control parasitism and, on the other hand, enhance heart inflammation throughout the course of the infection.
Soares
M B
MB
Gonçalo Moniz Research Center - Fundaçào Oswaldo Cruz, Rua Waldemar Falcão, 121-Brotas-Salvador, Bahia, Brazil 40295-001.
Silva-Mota
K N
KN
Lima
R S
RS
Bellintani
M C
MC
Pontes-de-Carvalho
L
L
Ribeiro-dos-Santos
R
R
D000818:Animals; D002598:Chagas Cardiomyopathy / Q000235:genetics / Q000276:immunology* / Q000473:pathology; D007113:Immunity, Innate / Q000235:genetics / Q000276:immunology; D007249:Inflammation / Q000276:immunology* / Q000473:pathology; D015847:Interleukin-4 / Q000172:deficiency / Q000235:genetics / Q000502:physiology*; D008213:Lymphocyte Activation; D051379:Mice; D008807:Mice, Inbred BALB C; D018345:Mice, Knockout; D008819:Mice, Nude; D009205:Myocarditis / Q000235:genetics / Q000276:immunology / Q000473:pathology; D018512:Parasitemia / Q000276:immunology* / Q000473:pathology; D006377:T-Lymphocytes, Helper-Inducer / Q000276:immunology*; D013997:Time Factors; D014349:Trypanosoma cruzi
D015847:Interleukin-4