AI Article Synopsis

  • The study explores how the helminth Strongyloides stercoralis (Ss) might influence complement system activation in people with type 2 diabetes (T2D), suggesting a protective effect against disease progression.
  • Researchers compared complement protein levels in individuals with T2D who had Ss infections versus those without, finding that Ss-infected individuals had lower complement levels and regulatory proteins.
  • After treating Ss-infected individuals with anthelmintics, some complement levels improved, indicating that helminth infections could play a role in reducing inflammation related to diabetes.

Article 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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Source
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10986927PMC
http://dx.doi.org/10.1371/journal.pntd.0012048DOI Listing

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