Project description:This study aims to investigate the immunemodulatory effects of excretory-secretory products (ESPs) from the parasite Taenia solium on human macrophages to understand immunopathogenesis of neurocysticercosis (NCC). NCC is an infection of the central nervous system caused by the larvae of T. solium and is a major contributor to acquired epilepsy. Although ESPs from parasites are known to possess immune-modulating properties, the specific mechanisms of their action in NCC remains unclear. Therefore, this expression study seeks to shed light on the exact mechanism by which T. solium ESPs exert their immune-suppressive effects on human macrophages. Understanding this mechanism can provide valuable insights into the pathogenesis of NCC and potentially contribute to the development of novel therapeutic strategies for managing the disease. The study employed miRNA microarray technology to investigate the post-translational effects of excretory-secretory products (ESPs) from Taenia solium on human macrophage function. microRNAs, are small non-coding RNA molecules that play a crucial role in post-transcriptional gene regulation. The aim of study is to identify specific miRNAs that might be responsible for modulating macrophage function. Altered expression of miRNAs can influence the translation and stability of target mRNA molecules, subsequently affecting the production of proteins and the overall function of macrophages, thus affecting immune homeostasis in infection. Understanding the miRNA-mediated regulatory mechanisms involved in the immune response to T. solium infection can contribute to a better understanding of the pathogenesis of neurocysticercosis and potentially uncover novel therapeutic targets for managing the disease.
