ABSTRACT
The 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2) subset has gained particular prominence in response to intestinal helminth infection by the production of the canonical type 2 cytokines. Of particular note is the demonstration that intestinal tuft cells, a chemosensory cell located in the gut epithelium, are a potent source of interleukin (IL)-25, that drives expansion of IL-5, IL-9, and IL-13 producing ILC2 at mucosal surfaces, particularly following intestinal helminth infection. Several days after an initial helminth infection, a strong, polarized type 2 immune response has developed that includes both innate and adaptive components. The fact that helminth infections by soil-transmitted helminth are often associated with iron deficiency, malnutrition, mucosal pathology, dysentery, and rectal prolapse indicates that removal of the parasites would have considerable health benefits, particularly for children. Epidemiological studies have identified a correlation between helminth infections and reduced inflammatory and autoimmune diseases in developing countries.
