Anisakis simplex: Immunomodulatory effects of larval antigens on the activation of Toll like Receptors

Aims: The objective of this investigation is to evaluate the mechanisms Anisakis simplex employs to modify its host immune system, regarding the larval antigens interactions with Toll-Like-Receptors (TLRs). Methods and Results: In a previous study, we described that the stimulation of bone marrow derived dendritic cells (BMDCs) with A. simplex larval antigens drive an acute inflammatory response in BALB/c mice, but a more discrete and longer response in C57BL/6J. Moreover, when A. simplex larval antigens were combined with TLR agonists (TLR 1/2-9), they modified mainly TLR2, TLR4 and TLR9 agonists responses in both mice strains, and also TLR3, TLR5 and TLR7 in BALB/c. Antigen-presenting ability was analyzed by the detection of CD11c + cells expressing surface markers (CD80-86, MHC I-II), intracellular cytokines (IL-10, IL-12, TNF-alpha) and intracellular proteins (Myd88, NF-Kappa beta) by Flow Cytometry. Secreted IL-10 was measured by ELISA. Conclusion: Our findings confirm not only that the host genetic basis plays a role in the development of a Th2/Th1/Treg response, but also it states A. simplex larval antigens present specific mechanisms to modify the innate response of the host. As allergies share common pathways with the immune response against this particular helminth, our results provide a better understanding into the specific mechanisms of A. simplex allergy related diseases.

Automated summary

This study aimed to evaluate the mechanisms by which Anisakis simplex modifies its host immune system through larval antigens interacting with Toll-Like-Receptors (TLRs). The findings showed that the larval antigens had specific mechanisms to modify the innate responses of the host, influencing different inflammatory responses in different mouse strains. The results contribute to a better understanding of allergy-related diseases and specific mechanisms of A. simplex immune responses.