Any given mammalian immune system mixes it up with trillions of individual microorganisms, viruses, and macroparasites on a regular basis. These foreign invaders can cooperate with each other to create conditions favorable for the colonization of their host. University of Bourgogne evolutionary ecologist and Faculty of 1000 Member, Gabriele Sorci, discusses a paper that describes how parasitic worms may make it easier for some bacteria to infect the same host in the wild (The American Naturalist, 176:613-24, 2010).
The Scientist: Helminths, or parasitic nematode worms, are the most common parasites infecting wild animals. To take up permanent residence in their hosts, they have evolved ways to evade the host’s immune system. How do they simultaneously affect the host’s ability to deal with other invaders?
Variety, the Spice of Immunology
Malaria Parasites Synch with Host
Gabriele Sorci: Helminths are believed to activate the T-helper type 2 immune response. ...
