Th2 cytokine-induced alterations in intestinal smooth muscle function depend on alternatively activated macrophages.

ABSTRACT:

Background & aims

Enteric nematode infection induces a strong type 2 T helper cell (Th2) cytokine response characterized by increased infiltration of various immune cells, including macrophages. The role of these immune cells in host defense against nematode infection remains poorly defined. The present study investigated the role of macrophages and the arginase pathway in nematode-induced changes in intestinal smooth muscle function and worm expulsion.

Methods

Mice were infected with Nippostrongylus brasiliensis and treated with clodronate-containing liposome to deplete macrophages or given S-(2-boronoethyl)-I-cysteine in drinking water to inhibit arginase activity. Segments of intestinal smooth muscle were suspended in organ baths to determine responses to acetylcholine, 5

SUBMITTER: Zhao A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2954589 | biostudies-literature | 2008 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature