A proof of concept study establishing Necator americanus in Chrohn's patients and reservoir donors

Abstract

[Extract] The emergence of autoimmunity, including Crohn’s disease (CD) where the immune relationship with commensal bacteria is corrupted, has been linked to hygiene.1 2 A gradual decline in endoparasites is but one argument that might explain this phenomenon.3 Weinstock and colleagues have successfully tested the pig whipworm, Trichuris suis, in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).4 5 However, repeated inoculation was required and concern has been raised that aberrant migration could occur.6 The haematophagous hookworm, Necator americanus (NA), is proposed as an alternative. We have tested if CD patients tolerate hookworm infection, and the practical issues associated with establishing reservoir donors (RDs).