Helminths and HIV infection: epidemiological observations on immunological hypotheses
2006
Helminths and HIV Infection: Understanding Their Interactions
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Brown M, Mawa P A, Kaleebu P, Elliott A M
Primary Institution: London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine
Hypothesis
Do helminths impair the immune response to HIV, leading to greater susceptibility to HIV acquisition and more rapid HIV progression?
Conclusion
The study suggests that the interactions between helminths and HIV are complex and may vary depending on the species of helminth and the context of the infection.
Supporting Evidence
- Helminths have co-evolved with the mammalian immune system.
- Immunological stimulation by helminths may be balanced by immuno-regulation.
- Current epidemiological data on helminths and HIV interactions are largely inconclusive.
Takeaway
Helminths are worms that can live in our bodies, and they might affect how our immune system responds to HIV, but the relationship is complicated.
Limitations
The available epidemiological data are largely observational and results are variable and generally inconclusive.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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