Human gastrointestinal nematode infections: are new control methods required?

Area of Science:

• Parasitology
• Infectious Diseases
• Drug Discovery

Background:

• Gastrointestinal (GI) nematode infections impact 50% of the global population, causing significant morbidity and mortality.
• Prevalence remains high due to poor healthcare, sanitation, and health education in developing nations.
• Anthelmintic drug resistance is an emerging challenge in managing these parasitic infections.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review key parasitic GI nematodes and current control strategies.
• To discuss the development and potential of novel anthelmintic treatments.
• To highlight plant cysteine proteinases as a promising therapeutic avenue.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of parasitic GI nematodes and control methods.
• Analysis of current anthelmintic drug resistance trends.
• Exploration of plant-derived compounds, specifically cysteine proteinases, for therapeutic potential.

Main Results:

• GI nematode infections represent a persistent global health burden.
• Existing treatments face challenges including drug resistance and accessibility.
• Plant cysteine proteinases demonstrate potential as new anthelmintic agents.

Conclusions:

• Effective control of GI nematodes requires multifaceted approaches, including improved public health measures.
• Novel therapeutic strategies are crucial to overcome drug resistance.
• Plant-derived cysteine proteinases offer a promising alternative for future anthelmintic treatments.