Helminth infection modulates number and function of adipose tissue Tregs in high fat diet-induced obesity
Background: Epidemiological and experimental studies have shown a protective effect of helminth infections in weight gain and against the development of metabolic dysfunctions in the host. However, the mechanisms induced by the parasite that regulate the development of metabolic diseases in the host are unclear. The present study aimed to verify the influence of Heligmosomoides polygyrus infection in early stages of high fat diet-induced obesity. Principal Findings: The presence of infection was able to prevent exacerbated weight gain in mice fed with high fat diet when compared to non-infected controls. In addition, infected animals displayed improved insulin sensitivity and decreased fat accumulation in the liver. Obesity-associated inflammation was reduced in the presence of infection, demonstrated by higher levels of IL10 and adiponectin, increased infiltration of Th2 and eosinophils in adipose tissue of infected animals. Of note, the parasite infection was associated with increased Treg frequency in adipose tissue which showed higher expression of cell surface markers of function and activation, like LAP and CD134. The infection could also revert the loss of function in Tregs associated with high fat diet. Conclusion: These data suggest that H. polygyrus infection can prevent weight gain and metabolic syndrome in animals fed with high fat diet associated with modulations of adipose tissue Treg cells.