CHANGES IN THE LEVELS OF SOME INTERLEUKINS DURING TOXOPLASMA GONDII INFECTION

Opportunistic infections (OI) are infections that most commonly occur in immunocompromised people and are more severe in those with weakened immune systems. These types of infections can be caused by a variety of pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites. In people with normal immune systems, opportunistic infections are less likely to cause harm, usually resulting in mild infections and no impact. However, studies have shown that the immune system can undergo significant changes during OI (including a decrease in the number and function of immune cells such as T-lymphocytes and natural killer cells). These changes can lead to a reduced ability to fight infections, which leads to increased morbidity and mortality. Several studies have examined the changes in the immune system that occur during OI. Studies have shown that OI can cause a number of immune system dysfunctions, including decreased production of cytokines and chemokines. During parasitic infection, lymphocytes produce specific cytokines that play an important role in the defense against parasitic diseases. For example, IL-6 leads to the production of antibodies and has a proinflammatory effect through the induction of acute phase protein production. In addition, IL-10 and IL-6 affect the type of immune response by inhibiting the production of proinflammatory cytokines. Among these infections, Toxoplasma gondii was investigated and information was collected about the cytokine (IL4, IL6, IL8, IL10) changes that occur in the body during this infection.