Natural Regulatory T Cells in Some Parasitic Diseases

Raida S Yahya, Fahmida Khat

Abstract

 Parasitic infection in human alimentary tract causes a significant change in immune system through its continuous antigens secretion. The aim of this study was to estimate the change in natural regulatory T cell population in peripheral blood of patients infected with different types of alimentary tract parasites. Regulatory T cells (CD4+CD25+Foxp3+) were detected in eighty patients infected with intestinal parasites and forty healthy volunteers using flow cytometry technique. Statistical analysis showed a significant increase in regulatory T cell percentage in infected patients compared to healthy group (P<0.001). Patients infested with Giardia showed significantly higher CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ cell percentages than those infested with other parasites (P<0.001). Also, mixed infestation showed significantly higher CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ cell percentages than single infestation. In conclusion, natural regulatory T cell frequencies (CD4+CD25+Foxp3+) increase significantly in patients with parasitic diseases compared to healthy controls. The higher levels were associated with mixed infection compared to single infection, and in older than younger patients.