Extracellular Vesicles in Host-Parasite Interaction

His research focuses on host-pathogen interactions, particularly helminth-induced immunomodulation. Professor Nejsum investigates the role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in shaping the host immune response and explores the therapeutic potential of pathogen-derived EVs for treating inflammatory conditions. Additionally, he aims to engineer mammalian cells to produce anti-inflammatory EVs as innovative drug delivery systems. His work also examines the diagnostic potential of EVs in pathogen infections. His research has been supported by competitive national and international grants, and since 2005, he has published over 125 peer-reviewed articles in leading international journals. Professor Nejsum is also committed to engaging with the public to disseminate his research findings.

Extracellular Vesicles in Host-Parasite Interaction

Helminths are parasitic worms that often cause chronic infection by releasing excretory/secretory products that modulate the host’s immune response. Research, including work by Professor Nejsum’s team, has shown that extracellular vesicles (EVs) are part of these secretions. To understand their role in host-parasite interaction, EV content has been profiled, revealing microRNAs and proteins essential for parasite survival. Functional studies indicate that EVs play diverse roles depending on the parasite species:

• Ascaris-derived EVs: Suppress the host immune response and are selectively internalized by monocytes.

• Trichuris-derived EVs: Do not modulate immune responses but selectively pack microRNAs that suppress cancer genes.

• Other parasites: Release highly immunogenic EVs, playing a central role in pathogenicity.

• These findings highlight the context- and species-dependent roles of EVs in host-parasite interactions.