Caspase 8 inhibition increases the infection with trypanosoma cruzi in thehuman trophoblast cell line (bewo)

Abstract

Congenital Chagas’ disease is caused by the haemophlagelated protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi (T. cruzi), which is able to cross the placental barrier and infect both the placenta and fetus. However, congenital transmission rates are low, suggesting the presence of local defense mechanisms. The trophoblast is the first tissue of the placental barrier in contact with the maternal blood; its epithelial turnover is considered part of innate immune system. Previous studies have shown that T. cruzi induces proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis in the trophoblast, suggesting an increase in epithelial turnover. Caspase 8 is an essential molecule not only during apoptotic cell death but also during trophoblast differentiation.