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. 1997 Aug;65(8):3457–3461. doi: 10.1128/iai.65.8.3457-3461.1997

Mice lacking the gamma interferon receptor have an impaired granulomatous reaction to Schistosoma mansoni infection.

S A Rezende 1, V R Oliveira 1, A M Silva 1, J B Alves 1, A M Goes 1, L F Reis 1
PMCID: PMC175489  PMID: 9234812

Abstract

The egg-induced granulomatous reaction in Schistosoma mansoni-infected individuals develops within the portal system of the liver and is the major pathological finding in schistosomiasis. We have infected mice lacking the gamma interferon (IFN-gamma) receptor with S. mansoni larvae and studied the development of hepatic granulomas in these mutant mice in comparison to that in control wild-type mice. In the absence of IFN-gamma activity, a dramatic reduction in the size and architecture of the granuloma was observed. Granulomas from mutant mice were smaller than those from the control group and showed a significant reduction in the number of infiltrating inflammatory cells. Moreover, they appear to prematurely progress to the chronic phase of the reaction at a time when the control group still has acute inflammation. Our data suggests a pivotal role for IFN-gamma in the early events of the granulomatous reaction in vivo.

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Selected References

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