Using controlled human schistosome infection models, we investigate how immune responses develop in non-endemic volunteers from the earliest stages of infection. Our studies show that initial inflammatory responses transition into type-2 and regulatory immune profiles directed at adult worms, even in the absence of egg production. We also observe strong anti-protein and anti-glycan antibody responses to schistosome antigens as a consistent feature of these infections. Whenever possible, we compare insights from these controlled models with data from endemic cohorts (Uganda) to assess how well our findings translate to naturally exposed populations.
While I we still lack a solid understanding of the fundamentals of schistosome immunology, I am equally motivated to translate the knowledge we have into interventions. I have systematically reviewed the schistosome vaccine literature and developed a searchable database to support the field (link: wormvaccines.nl). Currently, my group is developing a novel biologic designed to enhance protective immunity during ongoing infection, using in vitro parasite models and aiming to translate to in vivo testing in murine systems.
To comprehensively profile cellular, cytokine, and antibody responses, we apply high-dimensional technologies such as spectral flow cytometry, CyTOF, multiplex proteomics, and antibody arrays.
Who we are
- Emma L. Houlder (Senior researcher)
- Emmanuella Driciru (PhD)
- Sophie van Pelt (MSc)
- Emily Velders (MSc, past)
- Sanne Steenbergen (MSc) (now with Mucosal and systems immunology)
Key LUMC collaborators
- Clinical: Meta Roestenberg, Marie-Astrid Hoogerwerf, Jan Pieter Koopman
- Cellular immunology: Maria Yazdanbakhsh
- Vaccines and antibodies: Ron Hokke, Rajogopal Murugan, Angela van Diepen
- Bioinformatics: Koen Stam
Links
