B Cell Response Is Required for Granuloma Formation in the Early Infection of Schistosoma japonicum
2008

B Cell Response and Granuloma Formation in Schistosoma japonicum Infection

Sample size: 14 publication 10 minutes Evidence: high

Author Information

Author(s): Ji Fang, Liu Zhanjie, Cao Jianping, Li Na, Liu Zhijian, Zuo Jinxin, Chen Yan, Wang Xinzhi, Sun Jian

Primary Institution: Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine

Hypothesis

The role of B cells in inflammatory granuloma development during early Schistosoma japonicum infection is critical.

Conclusion

B cell function is essential for the formation of granulomas in the early stages of Schistosoma japonicum infection.

Supporting Evidence

  • OBF-1 knockout mice showed severely reduced hepatic granulomas at five weeks post-infection.
  • B cells and antibodies accumulated in the granulomas of wild-type mice early in the infection.
  • Defects in B cell function markedly reduced liver egg burden.
  • Granuloma pathology was comparable between OBF-1 knockout and wild-type mice at eight weeks post-infection.

Takeaway

B cells help the body fight off a parasite called Schistosoma by forming protective lumps called granulomas early in the infection.

Methodology

The study used OBF-1 knockout and µMT mice to assess B cell responses and granuloma formation after infection with Schistosoma japonicum.

Potential Biases

Potential bias in interpreting results from genetically modified mouse models.

Limitations

The study primarily focused on specific mouse models, which may not fully represent human responses.

Participant Demographics

Mice used in the study included OBF-1 knockout and µMT strains.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.05

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0001724

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