Changes in the Expression of TLR2 During the Intestinal Phase of Trichinellosis.

INTRODUCTION

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) play an important role in fast activation of the immune response to a variety of pathogens, including parasites. In this study, we focused on TLR2, because this receptor is one of the best known and most frequently analysed members of the TLR family. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of on expression of TLR2 during the intestinal stage of infection.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The experimental material consisted of isolates prepared from the intestines (jejunum and colon) of BALB/c mice infected with taken at 4, 8, and 16 days post infection.

RESULTS

Our results based on quantitative real-time PCR showed that the mRNA level for TLR2 was statistically significantly higher in the jejuna of mice infected with than in this tissue of uninfected mice. In addition, the presence of TLR2 protein in the intestinal phase of trichinellosis was confirmed by a strong positive immunohistochemical reaction.

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that infection with changes the expression of TLR2 in the small intestine of the mouse host and suggest a contribution of these receptors to the host defence mechanisms during experimental trichinellosis.