HOOKWORMS (ANCYLOSTOMA SPP.) USE VARIOUS MECHANISMS TO EVADE AND MODULATE THE HOST IMMUNE RESPONSE

Abstract

Hookworms of the genus Ancylostoma are parasitic nematodes that infect tens of millions of human beings worldwide, specifically in tropical and subtropical areas wherein poverty, insufficient sanitation, and warm climates favour transmission. This capacity to live on within the host is largely attributed to their state-of-the-art immune evasion and immune modulation strategies. These techniques help the parasites avoid detection, reduce infection that might damage them, and create a microenvironment that helps their survival and reproduction. Those parasites secrete immunomodulatory molecules that suppress seasoned-inflammatory responses, inhibit antigen presentation, and skew host immunity in the direction of a regulatory or Th2-dominated profile. By interfering with cytokine signalling, impairing neutrophil and macrophage function, and promoting regulatory T-cell expansion, hookworms minimise tissue damage and lengthen persistent infection. Additionally, their capability to adjust the gut microenvironment and degrade host immune mediators in addition enhances immune evasion. Information these mechanisms afford precious insights into parasite–host interactions and help the improvement of advanced manipulation techniques, vaccines, and therapeutics towards hookworm contamination.