Understanding anthelmintic resistance: the need for genomics and genetics

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Parasitology
• Molecular Genetics
• Drug Resistance

Background:

• Anthelmintic resistance is a significant constraint on global livestock production.
• The molecular and genetic underpinnings of parasite resistance to anthelmintics remain poorly understood.
• Identifying resistance mutations and understanding their selection and spread is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current strategies for identifying anthelmintic resistance mutations.
• To discuss the limitations of candidate gene approaches.
• To highlight the potential of forward genetic and functional genomic methods.

Main Methods:

• Review of experimental studies on candidate genes for benzimidazole and ivermectin resistance.
• Discussion of limitations inherent in candidate gene approaches.
• Examination of successful forward genetic and functional genomic applications in insecticide resistance research.

Main Results:

• Candidate gene studies have had limited success due to narrow assumptions.
• Forward genetic and functional genomic approaches offer broader insights but require further development.
• Methodologies and resources for these advanced approaches are emerging for Haemonchus contortus.

Conclusions:

• There is an urgent need to adopt advanced genomic approaches for anthelmintic resistance research.
• Developing essential methodologies and resources is a key research priority.
• Progress is being made in applying these techniques to key nematode parasites like Haemonchus contortus.