Induction of tolerogenic properties by Anisakis larval antigens on murine dendritic cells.

AIMS: The objective of this work is to investigate if A. simplex larval antigens present immunomodulatory properties by the induction of tolerogenic dendritic cells (DCs) from two strains of mice (BALB/c and C57BL/6J).

METHODS AND RESULTS: We used mouse bone marrow derived DCs. We determined their antigen-presenting ability by expression of membrane markers (MHC I and MHC II, CD80, CD86) and intracellular expression levels of IL-10 and IL-12 cytokines. We also analyzed whether stimulation with A. simplex larval antigens is enhanced by the co-administration of the TLR4 and TLR9 agonists [LPS E. coli 026B6 and CpG (ODN1826), respectively]. Two differential types of responses were found in the two mouse strains studied: the BALB/c strain showed an acute and inflammatory response, whereas the C57BL/6J mice developed a more discrete and resistant response. This suggests the coexistence of two opposing responses generated by A. simplex larval antigens, and confirm that the host genetic basis plays a role in the development of a Th2 or Treg response.

CONCLUSION: The study of the mechanisms by which Anisakis manipulates the immune response through anti-inflammatory molecules is of interest not only for the direct application on the development of anthelmintic strategies, but also for the development of new anti-inflammatory products. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.