Onchocerciasis control: biological research is still needed

Area of Science:

• Parasitology
• Tropical Medicine
• Drug Discovery

Background:

• Onchocerciasis control programs have achieved significant success.
• However, challenges remain, including Loa loa-related serious adverse events post-ivermectin and uncertainties regarding disease elimination.
• The potential emergence of ivermectin-resistant Onchocerca volvulus populations necessitates ongoing research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To emphasize the need for continued biological research on Onchocerca volvulus.
• To highlight critical issues that require proactive attention in onchocerciasis control.
• To advocate for the development of alternative control tools and strategies.

Main Methods:

• Review of current onchocerciasis control challenges and research needs.
• Identification of promising alternative drugs such as doxycycline, moxidectin, and emodepside.
• Emphasis on the importance of immunological and genomic research for novel interventions.

Main Results:

• Ivermectin, while effective, presents challenges requiring further investigation.
• Alternative drug candidates show promise for onchocerciasis treatment.
• Increased support for immunology and genomics research is essential for developing new control tools.

Conclusions:

• Sustained biological research on Onchocerca volvulus is imperative.
• Proactive strategies are needed to address ivermectin-related adverse events and resistance.
• Investment in drug discovery, immunology, and genomics research will drive the development of vaccines and macrofilaricidal drugs for effective onchocerciasis control.