Immune cells rush to gut in food allergy
By Nathan Seppa
In battling disease, white blood cells called eosinophils play a supporting role to their better-known immune system partners, T cells and antibodies. Scientists know that eosinophils work diligently against some parasites. Beyond that, their role remains mysterious. This much is clear, however: Eosinophils can make trouble for their host.
Researchers report in the April Nature Immunology that allergic reactions to food coincide with an accumulation of eosinophils in the small intestine. In a study of mice, the scientists found that such a buildup contributes to intestinal inflammation, damage to nearby nerves, weight loss, and a stoppage of digestion.