This study investigates how long-lived immune memory responses of the type 2 helper T cell lineage (Th2 memory cells) contribute to protection against intestinal worm infections. Intestinal helminths infect large numbers of humans and animals worldwide and cause significant health and economic burdens. Effective immunity and successful vaccination strategies depend on the formation of immunological memory, yet key mechanisms regulating Th2 memory cells during reinfection remain insufficiently understood.Using a well-established mouse model of infection with the intestinal nematode Heligmosomoides bakeri, the project focuses on Th2 memory cells located in the peritoneal cavity. These cells are thought to play a central role in rapid immune activation after renewed exposure to parasites. The study examines their migration behaviour, their activation and reactivation mechanisms, and their contribution to protection against reinfection.Several experimental approaches are used to clarify how these memory cells move between body compartments, how they are triggered during reinfection, and how their function is regulated by immune mediators such as interleukin-27. In addition, the influence of the intestinal microbiota on the generation and function of Th2 memory responses is analysed.The results are expected to provide fundamental insights into how protective immune memory against intestinal worms is generated and maintained. This knowledge is relevant for the future development of vaccines and new therapeutic strategies against helminth infections in humans and livestock. The study is classified as basic research and aims to improve understanding of immune regulation in host–parasite interactions under physiologically relevant conditions.
Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (Thu,) studied this question.