Helminth infection impacts hematopoiesis

Abstract

Helminth infections are common in animals. However, the impact of a helminth infection on the function of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) and other hematopoietic cells has not been comprehensively defined. Here we describe the hematopoietic response to infection of mice with Schistosoma mansoni, a parasitic flatworm which causes schistosomiasis. We analyzed the frequency or number of hematopoietic cell types in the bone marrow, spleen, liver, thymus, and blood, and observed multiple hematopoietic changes caused by infection. Schistosome infection impaired bone marrow HSC function after serial transplantation. Functional HSCs were present in the infected liver. Infection blocked bone marrow erythropoiesis and augmented spleen erythropoiesis, observations consistent with the anemia and splenomegaly prevalent in schistosomiasis patients. This work defines the hematopoietic response to schistosomiasis, a debilitating disease afflicting more than 200 million people, and identifies impairments in HSC function and erythropoiesis.

Helminth Infestation Causing Anaemia in Pregnancy Attending Primary Care Clinic: A Case Report

“…However, it has been suggested that these infections decrease erythropoiesis by releasing nitric oxide. Nitric oxide can reduce the deformability of erythrocytes, leading to increased red blood cell destruction (Wijshake et al, 2023). Helminthic infestations during pregnancy can have several detrimental effects on both maternal and foetal health (Mpairwe et al, 2014).…”

“…Furthermore, helminth infestations, particularly hookworm infestations, have been identified as significant contributors to severe anaemia during pregnancy in Sub-Saharan Africa (Brooker et al, 2007). Studies have shown that helminthic infestations during pregnancy, such as hookworm infestations, can cause occult or overt intestinal blood loss due to mucosal or submucosal invasion, further exacerbating anaemia (Mpairwe et al, 2014;Wijshake et al, 2023). Foetal complications such as foetal growth restriction and low birth weight can also arise (Brooker et al, 2007;Mpairwe et al, 2014).…”