The neuropharmacology of schistosomes

The schistosomal nervous system uses some of the same neurotransmitters as the vertebrate system, but significant differences exist with respect to neurotransmitter metabolism and receptor specificity. The cholinergic system has been most extensively studied, and the serotoninergic system has also been examined carefully; catecholamines and benzodiazepines also seem to affect nervous system function. The objective of this work has been to determine whether neuroactive drugs could be used to disrupt the parasites' physiology sufficiently to have therapeutic impact, while avoiding toxic effects on the host nervous system. Promising findings have been made, suggesting that the unique properties of the schistosomal nervous system might be exploited to therapeutic advantage.