How do anthelmintic agents generally enhance the immune response against helminths?

Anthelmintic agents primarily enhance the immune response against helminths by stimulating Th2-type responses. Th2 responses are characterized by the production of cytokines such as IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13, which play a crucial role in combating parasitic infections, especially those caused by helminths.

The Th2 response is important because it leads to the activation and recruitment of eosinophils, mast cells, and basophils, which are vital in responding to helminth infections. These immune cells help to expel parasites through mechanisms such as increased mucus production, promotion of intestinal motility, and activation of allergic responses that can help to drive parasites out of the host.

Additionally, the Th2 cytokines facilitate B-cell class switching to IgE, which is essential for the immune response against helminths, as IgE can bind to allergens and parasites, marking them for destruction by immune cells.

In contrast, Th1-type responses are more effective against intracellular pathogens like viruses and some bacteria, whereas activating cytotoxic T-cells is more related to fighting viral infections and intracellular bacteria. Enhanced macrophage activity is also crucial for many immune responses, but in the context of helminths,