Drug resistance in liver flukes

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Parasitology
• Drug Resistance Studies
• Food-Borne Diseases

Background:

• Liver flukes, including Fasciola hepatica and Fasciola gigantica, cause significant economic losses in livestock and severe health issues in humans worldwide.
• These parasites, collectively known as Food-Borne Trematodes, are increasingly developing resistance to widely used drugs like triclabendazole (TCBZ).

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current understanding of TCBZ resistance mechanisms in liver flukes.
• To discuss advancements in developing new drugs, drug combinations, repurposed medications, and novel delivery systems.
• To highlight the importance of accurate diagnostics and sound farm management for effective parasite control.

Main Methods:

• Review of scientific literature on liver fluke resistance mechanisms.
• Analysis of research on novel therapeutic strategies and drug development.
• Examination of diagnostic methods and their limitations.

Main Results:

• Resistance to TCBZ in liver flukes is linked to tubulin mutations, altered drug uptake, and changes in drug metabolism.
• Significant interest exists in developing new drugs, drug combinations, and repurposed medications.
• Accurate diagnosis and identification of drug-resistant fluke populations are crucial for effective control and treatment strategies.

Conclusions:

• Addressing drug resistance in liver flukes requires a multi-faceted approach, including new drug development and improved management practices.
• Standardized diagnostic protocols are urgently needed to accurately assess resistance and guide treatment decisions.
• Veterinary guidance and strategic treatment programs are essential for preserving drug efficacy and managing these economically significant parasites.