Article
Trypanosoma rangeli: a new perspective for studying the modulation of immune reactions of Rhodnius prolixus
Registro en:
GARCIA, Eloi S. et al. Trypanosoma rangeli: a new perspective for studying the modulation of immune reactions of Rhodnius prolixus. Parasites & Vectors, v.2, n.33, 10p., July 2009.
1756-3305
10.1186/1756-3305-2-33
Autor
Garcia, Eloi S.
Castro, Daniele P.
Figueiredo, Marcela B.
Genta, Fernando A.
Azambuja, Patricia
Resumen
Insects are exposed to a wide range of microorganisms (bacteria, fungi, parasites and viruses) and
have interconnected powerful immune reactions. Although insects lack an acquired immune system
they have well-developed innate immune defences that allow a general and rapid response to
infectious agents.
Over the last few decades we have observed a dramatic increase in the knowledge of insect innate
immunity, which relies on both humoral and cellular responses. However, innate reactions to
natural insect pathogens and insect-transmitted pathogens, such as parasites, still remain poorly
understood.
In this review, we briefly introduce the general immune system of insects and highlight our current
knowledge of these reactions focusing on the interactions of Trypanosoma rangeli with Rhodnius
prolixus, an important model for innate immunity investigation.