Parasites in the gut have an essential role in developing a healthy immune system

It has long been known that microbes in the gut help to develop a healthy immune system, hence the rise in popularity of probiotic yoghurts that encourage 'friendly' bacteria. But new research by Professors Richard Grencis and Ian Roberts at Manchester University shows that larger organisms such as parasitic worms are also essential in maintaining our bodily 'ecosystem'.........

............Intestinal roundworm parasites are one of the most common types of infection worldwide, although in humans increased hygiene has reduced infection in many countries. High level infections by these parasites can cause disease, but the natural situation is the presence of relatively low levels of infection. The team's work suggests that in addition to bacterial microflora, the natural state of affairs of our intestines may well be the presence of larger organisms, the parasitic roundworms, and that complex and subtle interactions between these different types of organism have evolved to provide an efficient and beneficial ecosystem for all concerned.

Professor Roberts says: "The host uses its immune system to regulate the damage caused by the bacteria and the worms. If the pathogens are missing, the immune system may not give the right response."

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For the paper 'Exploitation of the Intestinal Microflora by the Parasitic Nematode Trichuris muris' email Mikaela.Sitford@manchester.ac.uk

Click here for more research on worms

First Published in June 2010

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