Basophils in antihelminth immunity

It has been appreciated that basophilia is a common feature of helminth infections for approximately 50 years. The ability of basophils to secrete IL-4 and other type 2 cytokines has supported the prevailing notion that basophils contribute to antihelminth immunity by promoting optimal type 2 T helper (Th2) cell responses. While this appears to be the case in several helminth infections, emerging studies are also revealing that the effector functions of basophils are extremely diverse and parasite-specific. Further, new reports now suggest that basophils can restrict type 2 inflammation in a manner that preserves the integrity of helminth-affected tissue. Finally, exciting data has also demonstrated that basophils can regulate inflammation by participating in neuroimmune interactions. This article will review the current state of basophil biology and describe how recent studies are transforming our understanding of the role basophils play in the context of helminth infections.

Automated summary

Basophils are commonly associated with helminth infections and are known to contribute to immune responses by promoting optimal type 2 T helper cell reactions. However, recent studies have revealed that their effector functions are diverse and parasite-specific. Additionally, basophils can also regulate inflammation and maintain tissue integrity in helminth-infected individuals.