Schistosoma-related molecules as a new strategy to combat type 1 diabetes through immune regulation

• Published in: Parasitology international 2024-02, Vol.98, p.102818-102818, Article 102818
• Main Authors: Tang, Chun-lian, Lian, Zhan, Ding, Fan-rong, Liang, Jun, Li, Xiang-you
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Regulatory T cells; Schistosoma; Th1; Type 1 diabetes
• ISSN: 1383-5769; 1873-0329
• DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2023.102818

The study of immune regulation mechanisms induced by parasites may help develop new treatment methods for inflammatory diseases including type 1 diabetes, which is related to type 1 immune responses. The negative correlation between schistosomiasis infection and type 1 diabetes has been confirmed, and the mechanism of Schistosoma-mediated prevention of type 1 diabetes may be related to the adaptive and innate immune systems. Schistosoma-related molecules affect immune cell composition and macrophage polarization and stimulate an increase in natural killer T cells. Furthermore, Schistosoma-related molecules can regulate the adaptive immune responses related to the prevention of type 1 diabetes and change the Th1/Th2 and Th17/Treg axis. Our previous review showed the role of regulatory T cells in the protective of type 1 diabetes mediated by Schistosoma. Here, we aim to review the other mechanisms of schistosomiasis infection and Schistosoma-related products in regulating the immune response associated with the treatment of type 1 diabetes. •Schistosoma may help prevent type 1 diabetes through immune system interactions.•Schistosoma products may treat type 1 diabetes by balancing immune cells.•S. mansoni eggs suppress autoimmune diabetes by shifting the immune response.