Early host-parasite interaction models reveal a key role for fibrinolysis in Fasciola hepatica intestinal migration.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Fasciola hepatica is the most common etiologic agent of fasciolosis, a parasitic disease that affects millions of ruminants worldwide and a zoonotic human infection of public health concern. Upon ingestion of infective metacercariae, F. hepatica newly excysted juveniles (FhNEJ) emerge in the duodenum and cross the intestinal wall to initiate a migration route that culminates with their establishment within the hepatic bile ducts. The ability of FhNEJ to exploit the broad-spectrum activities of host plasmin, the central protease of the fibrinolytic system, has been proposed as a strategy employed by these parasites to migrate across the intestinal wall while minimising energy expenditure.

Methods

Mouse intestinal epithelial cells (mPSIEC) were stimulated with FhNEJ

SUBMITTER: Serrat J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12462368 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature