Role of Methisoprinol in Viral Infection: Influence of Methisoprinol on Eosinophilic Granulocytes

Abstract

Dysregulation of the immune response has been observed in many parasite infestations. In some situations a functional defect of several cell populations (macrophages, T helper cells) as well as an impairment in cell cooperation (T - B lymphocytes) has been reported. More generally, immunodepression and polyclonal B cell activation appear to be common characteristics of many parasitic infections. The sequelae of such a parasite-induced modulation of immunity are an increased susceptibility to a wide variety of microorganisms and a higher incidence of neoplasia and autoimmune-like diseases as well as of hypersensitivity reactions.^1–3 Though a complete understanding of the mechanisms of parasite-induced immunodysregulation is complicated by the complex host-parasite relationship per se and the equally complex immune system, attempts have been made to manipulate the immune response and the immune-pathological consequences by pharmacological agents. Some of the earlier studies on the subject involved the use of immunosuppressive drugs and only recently immunopotentiators have been considered as a means of reducing the severity of the disease and enhancing host resistance to infection. Currently little is known about the influence of these substances on the eosinophilic granulocytes. Eosinophils have the ability to participate in immunity to the larval invasive phase of helminthic diseases and the administration of specific anti-eosinophil serum results in impaired host resistance.⁴