Relevance of Helminth-Microbiota interplay in the host immune response

Abstract

Helminths have been present throughout the evolution of humans, promoting the development and maturation of the host immune system. However, this interaction is not exclusive between these two organisms, as the microbiota is also involved in this human evolutionary process and maintains a balanced relationship inside the host. Consequently, helminths have been forced to interact and co-evolve with the microbiota, shaping microbial communities and allowing the development of reciprocal mechanisms that favour their establishment. This helminth-microbiota association, in turn, induced the activation of different host immunoregulatory pathways to preserve health by preventing the development of some diseases associated with inflammatory immune responses. Unfortunately, this collaborative relationship can be quali- and quantitatively altered by the diet and the use of antibacterial and antihelminthic drugs. Understanding the mechanisms involved in this complex three-way communication that has continued for many years is crucial for preserving health and for the generation of new therapeutic alternatives.