The Anti-Apoptotic Role of COX-2 during In Vitro Infection of Human Intestinal Cell Line by Giardia duodenalis and the Potential Regulators

Abstract

The protozoan parasite Giardia duodenalis inhabits the upper small intestine of mammals, including humans, and causes a disease known as giardiasis, which can lead to diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and bloating. G. duodenalis was known as a causative factor of intestinal epithelial cell (IEC) apoptosis. Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) has been identified as an influencing factor of pathogen infection by participating in immune response, while its role in host defense against Giardia infection is not clear.