Monocytes/Macrophages in Helminth Infections: Key Players in Host Defence, Inflammation, and Tissue Repair

Abstract

Monocytes/macrophages are pivotal in host defense, inflammation, and tissue repair. They are actively engaged during helminth infections, playing critical roles in trapping pathogens, eliminating them, repairing tissue damage, and mitigating type 2 inflammation. These cells are indispensable in preserving physiological equilibrium and overseeing pathogen resistance as well as metabolic processes. Furthermore, these immune cells are influenced by cellular metabolism, which adjusts in response to host-derived factors and environmental cues. They secrete effector molecules crucial for anti-helminthic immunity and healing tissues damaged by parasites. Helminth parasites manipulate the immune regulatory capabilities of monocytes/macrophages by secreting anti-inflammatory mediators to dodge host defenses. Infections, especially with helminths, induce metabolic adaptations involving monocytes/macrophages that can lead to enhanced insulin sensitivity. This review provides a synthesis of the activation and diversity of monocytes/macrophages, their involvement in inflammation, and the latest insights into the strategies of monocyte/macrophage-mediated host defense against helminth infections. It also sheds light on recent discoveries concerning the immune regulatory interactions between monocytes/macrophages and helminth parasites.

Keywords: Helminths; Host resistance; Inflammation; Macrophage subsets; Macrophages; Monocytes; Parasites; Tissue repair; Wound healing.