Elimination of Schistosoma mansoni Adult Worms by Rhesus Macaques: Basis for a Therapeutic Vaccine?
Author Information
Author(s): Wilson R. Alan, Langermans Jan A. M., van Dam Govert J., Vervenne Richard A., Hall Stephanie L., Borges William C., Dillon Gary P., Thomas Alan W., Coulson Patricia S.
Primary Institution: Department of Biology, University of York, York, United Kingdom
Hypothesis
Is the loss of adult Schistosoma mansoni worms in rhesus macaques due to immune-mediated processes?
Conclusion
Rhesus macaques can eliminate adult Schistosoma mansoni worms through antibody-mediated mechanisms, suggesting potential for vaccine development.
Supporting Evidence
- The study found that many worms had a shrunken and pallid appearance, indicating poor health.
- IgG production correlated with lower worm burdens, suggesting an immune response was effective.
- Worms starved to death after blood feeding ceased, linked to antibody-mediated processes.
Takeaway
Rhesus macaques can get rid of certain worms in their bodies because their immune system learns to fight them off, which could help scientists make a vaccine for humans.
Methodology
Six adult female rhesus macaques were infected with Schistosoma mansoni cercariae, and their immune responses and worm burdens were monitored over 18 weeks.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in the selection of macaques and the experimental conditions may affect the generalizability of the findings.
Limitations
The study was limited to a small sample size of six macaques, which may not fully represent the broader population.
Participant Demographics
Six adult female rhesus macaques, mean age 15.8 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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