Background
Schistosomiasis is a serious global problem and the second most devastating parasitic disease after malaria. Currently, there is no effective vaccine available and treatment is entirely dependent on praziquantel chemotherapy, which raises significant potential threat to public health should drug resistance develop. The paucity of molecular tools to manipulate schistosome gene expression has made an understanding of molecular pathways in these parasites difficult, increasing the challenge of identifying new potential drug candidates.
Aim
We will use edge-cutting approaches, including spatial profiling tools, CRISPR- mediated gene editing platform, to identify novel drug targets and to characterise their functional roles in parasite development and host–pathogen progression.
Project Potential
Harnessing those powerful technologies in helminth research will enhance our ability to better understand the mechanisms of parasite–host interactions and to identify novel drug targets, with the potential for translation into real-world strategies to improve the control of parasitic diseases and enhance well-being in developing countries.