Abstract
The pro-inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α has an important role in control of experimental Leishmania donovani infection. Less is known about the role of TNF-α in human visceral leishmaniasis (VL). Evidence for a protective role is primarily based on case reports of VL development in individuals treated with TNF-α neutralizing antibody. In this study, we have evaluated how TNF-α neutralization affects parasite replication and cytokine production in ex vivo splenic aspirates (SA) from active VL patients. The effect of TNF-α neutralization on cell mediated antigen specific responses were also evaluated using whole blood cultures. Neutralization of TNF-α did not affect parasite numbers in SA cultures. Interferon (IFN)-γ levels were significantly reduced, but interleukin (IL)-10 levels were unchanged in these cultures. Leishmania antigen stimulated SA produced significant TNF-α which suggests that TNF-α is actively produced in VL spleen. Further it stimulates IFN-γ production, but no direct effect on parasite replication.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
