Articles tagged with Schistosomiasis
New research reveals hybrid schistosomes are undermining existing disease control strategies by emerging faster than previously recognized. These hybrids can display altered biological traits linked to virulence and transmission potential, complicating diagnosis and treatment.
Reintroducing native African catfish into Lake Victoria significantly reduced the number of snail hosts and lowered the intensity of schistosomiasis infections among primary school-age children. This biocontrol method provides an effective way to combat this parasitic disease in the region.
A genetic analysis reveals that human parasites do not recently interbreed with those that infect cattle, contrary to previous concerns. This finding has implications for controlling schistosomiasis, a disease affecting over 200 million people globally.
Researchers have developed a low-cost, nanotechnology-based praziquantel formulation that increases efficacy and reduces dosage for treating worms. The new formulation, requiring only half the usual dose, demonstrates greater efficacy in eliminating schistosomes than the active ingredient alone.
Researchers found that Schistosoma haematobium parasitic infection triggers cancer-related gene activity in cervical lining, with treatment causing further changes. This study sheds light on how the parasite may contribute to cervical cancer risk at a molecular level.
A 500-year-old latrine from Bruges, Belgium has yielded evidence of intestinal parasites, shedding light on the spread of diseases through medieval travel and trade. The discovery provides key insights into human migration and disease transmission in the past.
Researchers have created a new diagnostic tool using machine learning to detect schistosomiasis, a persistent parasitic infection affecting an estimated 250 million people. The tool can identify low levels of the infection and distinguish between active and past infections, leading to earlier treatment and improved long-term outcomes.
A team of researchers from Stanford University and Brazil has developed models to predict the impact of environmental changes on schistosomiasis, a disease affecting over 200 million people worldwide. The collaboration has helped epidemiologists prioritize public health interventions and identify new transmission hotspots.
Researchers at Butantan Institute used phage display to screen 12,000 proteins from Schistosoma mansoni, identifying key parasite peptides targeted by macaque antibodies. This approach has potential for developing candidate vaccines against the disease.
A newly developed compound is showing promise as a more effective treatment for human schistosomiasis, an understudied tropical disease caused by parasitic worms. The compound overcomes the limitations of current treatment praziquantel by being effective against the larval stage and resistant strains.
A potentially fatal parasite has been discovered in the Colorado River in California, affecting dogs and causing liver and intestinal illness. Researchers confirm the presence of Heterobilharzia americana, a flatworm that can be transmitted through snails and water, highlighting the need for awareness and precautions among dog owners.
Researchers developed an innovative optical tool, the Schistoscope, to capture microscopy images of urine samples for efficient detection of Schistosoma haematobium eggs. A two-stage diagnostic framework using deep learning accurately identified and counted eggs in field settings with high sensitivity, specificity, and precision.
Removing nuisance aquatic vegetation from waterways reduces parasitic infection prevalence by up to 124%, while generating feed and compost for local farmers. The study's findings suggest a potential solution for schistosomiasis endemic areas, with implications for global health.
Researchers discovered that long non-coding RNAs are essential for the survival of the parasitic worm causing schistosomiasis. Silencing these RNAs prevents reproduction and egg release, leading to parasite death. This finding offers a promising new approach to treating this neglected disease.
Researchers at the University of Notre Dame found that removing invasive vegetation from water access points reduced schistosomiasis rates by nearly a third. The removed vegetation can be used as compost and livestock feed, improving food security.
A 16-year analysis of Brazilian research funding reveals stagnant funding for neglected tropical diseases, including chikungunya, Chagas disease, schistosomiasis, and malaria. Systematic underfunding is observed even among these diseases, which are considered neglected tropical diseases.
A cercarial dermatitis outbreak occurred in Chana district, South Thailand, affecting rice farmers, due to ruminant parasites like Schistosoma indicum. The study identified two snail species as intermediate hosts for flatworms causing the disease.
Despite advances in biology and medicinal chemistry, research on schistosomiasis and other parasitic worm diseases remains at an early stage. Novel molecular targets and parasite signaling pathways may contribute to the development of new treatments.
A team of UTSW researchers has identified a molecule produced by male parasitic worms called gli1, which prompts female sexual maturity and lays eggs responsible for schistosomiasis. Dosage with the peptide b-alanyl-tryptamine can trigger sexual maturity in females without a male present.
A new study by Emory University finds that schistosome transmission can be highest when freshwater snail populations are low. Snails competing for resources may lead to lower infectivity rates, contrary to typical pesticide-based control methods.
Researchers discovered nine genes in S. mansoni's autophagy pathway inhibited by the primate's immune system, preventing parasite multiplication and contaminating the host. The study suggests a potential novel therapy and vaccine against schistosomiasis.
Researchers have solved the mystery of how praziquantel works, a key to treating schistosomiasis. The discovery highlights new opportunities for drug development and may help combat this debilitating disease affecting over a billion people worldwide.
Two independent teams of researchers have found the molecular mechanism of action of praziquantel, the only approved drug to treat schistosomiasis. The drug binds to a specific type of channel in the cell membrane, causing calcium ions influx and resulting in worm paralysis and death.
Researchers have made progress towards a new diagnostic test for schistosomiasis, which could help interrupt transmission and eventually eliminate the disease. The test targets proteins produced by the parasite and can detect even low-intensity infections.
A new study found that the transmission risk for schistosomiasis peaks when water warms to 21.7 degrees centigrade, increasing with climate change. Implementing snail control measures can reduce transmission but raises peak transmission risk to 23 degrees Fahrenheit.
Researchers have developed a cell atlas of Schistosoma mansoni, a parasitic worm that poses a risk to hundreds of millions of people each year. The study identified 13 distinct cell types within the worm at the start of its development, including new cell types in the nervous and muscular systems.
Researchers found that red propolis extract was more effective in reducing parasite load and killing helminths than the only available drug, praziquantel. Red propolis also blocked reproduction and oviposition, making it a promising alternative treatment for schistosomiasis.
Researchers are using climate projection studies to understand the impact of changing temperatures and precipitation on snail populations, which carry the parasite causing schistosomiasis. The study aims to inform strategies for reducing the spread of this debilitating infection, affecting 220 million people globally.
Researchers have made significant breakthroughs in understanding the biology of schistosomes, a parasitic flatworm that causes schistosomiasis. By identifying key vulnerabilities, scientists hope to develop new treatments for this deadly disease, which affects up to 250,000 people annually.
Research at UC Berkeley reveals pesticides can boost schistosome parasite transmission by affecting snail survival, aquatic predators and algae composition. This increases disease burden in areas with high agricultural agrochemical use, posing a significant threat to public health.
A Stirling-led project aims to reduce the prevalence of schistosomiasis, a debilitating infection affecting 200 million people worldwide. By boosting native snail predators through aquaculture, researchers hope to control snail populations and limit the spread of the disease.
Researchers found that pesticide-contaminated freshwater bodies support larger snail populations, which can increase the risk of schistosomiasis. The study suggests reducing pesticide use near waterways and improving sewage systems as key measures to mitigate the disease.
Researchers used drone and satellite imagery to map snail habitats in the Lower Senegal River Basin, finding that non-emergent vegetation was a stronger predictor of human infection than host snail counts. Removing this vegetation may benefit snail control efforts, reducing schistosomiasis transmission risk near human water-contact sites.
Researchers used satellite images, drone photos, and machine learning to identify communities at risk for schistosomiasis. The study found that areas with floating vegetation near water access points are more likely to have high infection rates.
A research team has isolated a potent compound that paralyzes parasitic worms causing devastating health problems. The discovery could lead to new ways to fight schistosomiasis, a disease with no alternative treatment besides praziquantel.
Researchers have isolated a potent chemical, 'schistosome paralysis factor', that can immobilize cercariae and prevent infection. This discovery could lead to new treatments for schistosomiasis, which causes devastating health problems in Africa, Asia, and parts of South America.
A study found that co-infection with blood flukes and Helicobacter pylori reduces stomach inflammation by misdirecting immune cells to the liver. The interaction may limit vaccine effectiveness but also provides protection against cirrhosis, a common complication of schistosomiasis.
Researchers at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev have created a monosex prawn that produces only female offspring, reducing the risk of water-borne diseases. This breakthrough could alleviate poverty and protect the environment by increasing aquaculture yields and serving as a natural biocontrol agent.
Schistosomiasis, a parasitic disease affecting 200 million people worldwide, can't be cured with current approaches due to poverty's role. Researchers found that mass drug administration programs fail to eradicate the disease, as treated individuals re-expose themselves to contamination.
Research by UC Berkeley scientists shows that raising prawns in aquaculture systems can minimize tradeoffs between profit and disease reduction. Prawns feed on snails that transmit the parasite, reducing its burden to nearly zero after 10 years.
Researchers from UK and Malawi identify novel schistosome hybrids infecting children along Shire River Valley, with potential for abrupt genetic changes and increased disease transmission. A OneHealth approach is warranted to investigate inter-species combinations and zoonotic potential.
A study in Ghana found that awareness of Female Genital Schistosomiasis is lacking, affecting disease control in girls and women. The researchers' findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to address stigma and promote understanding of this chronic gynecological condition.
A UTA biologist is leading a $3.4 million NIH grant to study the persistence of schistosomiasis, a deadly parasitic disease affecting over 200 million people globally. The project aims to understand transmission patterns and develop strategies for permanent reductions in the disease.
Researchers found that schistosomiasis is associated with increased HIV transmission, acquisition in uninfected women, and mortality in infected women. Treating schistosomiasis may be a cost-effective way to reduce new HIV cases and death rates among HIV-positive individuals.
Developing vaccines for human parasites has proven challenging, with key challenges including immune response issues and limited scalability. GW researchers have outlined five key lessons learned along the critical path to vaccine development, aimed at accelerating progress in eradicating these diseases of poverty.
Researchers at Morgridge Institute for Research identified key stem cells governing the complex life cycle of Schistosoma. A gene associated with germline development was also found, providing potential targets for prevention and treatment of schistosomiasis, a deadly neglected tropical disease affecting hundreds of millions.
Researchers at Cardiff University have developed a potential new treatment for schistosomiasis and fascioliasis, two devastating tropical diseases. The goji berry-derived drug compound shows promise in combating the parasites that cause these conditions.
Two proteins, SmMBD2/3 and SmCBX, play essential roles in the biology of Schistosoma mansoni, particularly in egg production. Disrupting these proteins' activity could lead to new drug targets for controlling schistosomiasis.
Regular testing and treatment of pre-school children for snail fever could reduce the spread of the disease while promoting childhood health and development. Infected children can develop symptoms within three months and may experience stunted growth, learning difficulties, and increased risk of malnutrition.
Researchers have developed a web-based application to help on-the-ground decision making about integrating malaria and schistosomiasis control programs. The app models the impact of integrated treatment plans, providing insights into the most effective approaches.
A novel Helmintex assay has been shown to detect low-intensity schistosomiasis infections with high accuracy, surpassing traditional methods. The study found that the HTX method detected eggs in 29% of samples negative according to the Kato-Katz method.
New diagnostic methods were tested for intestinal schistosomiasis detection in a moderate prevalence area of Brazil. The Helmintex method showed the highest sensitivity, followed by the rapid urine test and Kato-Katz technique.
Schistosoma mansoni parasite is a major cause of human schistosomiasis, with $1.9-million NIH grant aimed at understanding its prevalence and exploring new control methods. Researchers plan to domesticate competitor parasites to combat the spread of the disease.
The Three Gorges Dam has altered downstream schistosomiasis rates by changing snail distribution, with human infection rates decreasing from 3.38% to 0.44%. Low water levels due to the dam have made Dongting Lake an unsuitable environment for snails.
A research team led by UNM Associate Professor Coenraad Adema has sequenced the genome of Biomphalaria glabrata, a tropical snail that transmits a deadly parasitic disease. This breakthrough could lead to the elimination of schistosomiasis, which kills hundreds of thousands of people annually.
A new study found that a TB vaccine candidate is safe and effective in adolescents infected with Schistosoma mansoni, a parasitic worm. No serious adverse events were recorded during the trial.
Researchers at Oregon State University have discovered a key protein that prevents snails from shedding parasites, reducing the risk of infection. The study's findings suggest that introducing this protein into populations of snail hosts could create more resistant snails, providing a new approach to controlling schistosomiasis.
Mass drug administration programmes have significantly increased treatment for bilharzia, killing an estimated 280,000 people annually. Praziquantel MDA programmes are effective but long-term effects and resistance to the drug are largely unknown.
Research reveals that irrigation channels and land use patterns influence snail dispersal, with villages having more channels experiencing higher migration rates. The study provides insights into the factors driving schistosomiasis re-emergence in Asia.
A modified HIV-1 virus can integrate into the genome of the parasitic flatworm Schistosoma mansoni, a major species of schistosomiasis-causing flatworm. This finding could aid research into potential new treatments for schistosomiasis and related neglected tropical diseases.