Cercarial Penetration and Skin Inflammation
Author Information
Author(s): A. C. Fusco, B. Salafsky, T. Shibuya
Primary Institution: University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford
Hypothesis
Can cercariae down-regulate keratinocyte activation and the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines and eicosanoids?
Conclusion
Cercarial penetration causes an increase in IL-10 secretion but down-regulates IL-8 and LTB4 production.
Supporting Evidence
- Cercarial penetration increased IL-10 secretion compared to controls.
- Cercariae down-regulated IL-8 production compared to IFN treatment.
- LTB4 production was decreased in the presence of cercariae.
Takeaway
When tiny parasites called cercariae enter the skin, they can make the skin less inflamed by changing how certain chemicals are released.
Methodology
The study used a Living Skin Equivalent (LSE) model to assess the effects of cercarial penetration on cytokine and eicosanoid production.
Limitations
The study was conducted in vitro, which may not fully replicate in vivo conditions.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p=0.02
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
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