Parasitic Worms for the Treatment of Neurodegeneration

ABSTRACT It is well established now that helminths mainly nematodes influence immune responses and provide protection and even inhibition of chronic inflammatory disorders. Nematode infection may be a consequence of the stimulation of specific immune responses including expansion of CD4 (+) Tregs that actively contribute to a shift in immune response and gut microbiota. However, there is growing evidence for alternative CD8 (+) T cell fates influencing CD4 (+) T-cell-mediated responses in the context of allergy and autoimmunity including neurodegeneration spectrum disorders. It seems to be that CD8 (+) iTregs play a unique role in restoring immune homeostasis. The article discusses the current status and prospects of clinical use of immunomodulatory parasitic worms in the treatment of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, including MS and AD. Here, we present our current understanding about effect diversity of CD8 (+) iTregs to effector cells and possible contribution of nematode factors to this process.