Interactions between immunity and chemotherapy in the treatment of the trypanosomiases and leishmaniases

Abstract

SUMMARYThe immune status of a host infected withTrypanosomaspp. orLeishmaniaspp. can play an important role in successful chemotherapy. In animal models, treatment of African trypanosomiasis with difluoromethylornithine or melarsoprol requires an appropriate antibody-mediated immune response. An intact immune system is also necessary for rapid clearance of trypanosomes from the bloodstream following treatment with suramin or quinapyramine. Similarly, an efficient cell-mediated immune response is required for maximal efficacy of pentavalent antimonials in the treatment of leishmaniasis. However, the potential relationship between parasite-induced or acquired immunosuppression and effective chemotherapy has been poorly studied. Macrophages which have been activated by bacterial cell wall components or gamma-interferon are known to display increased activity againstLeishmania donovaniorTrypanosoma cruzi. In experimental and clinical visceral leishmaniasis, use of macrophage activators together with pentavalent antimonials has lowered the dose of antimony required to cure the infection.