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Please note that we are a research service provider, not a pharmacy or clinic, so we are unable to see patients and do not offer diagnostic and treatment services for individuals.

Fasciolopsiasis

Fasciolopsiasis is a trematode infection that is contracted through food and caused by the intestinal fluke Fasciolopsis buski. Here at Protheragen, our unwavering dedication lies in spearheading the battle against fasciolopsiasis. We offer an all-encompassing range of services dedicated to the development of vaccines and therapeutics to combat this parasitic disease.

Overview of Fasciolopsiasis

Fasciolopsiasis is an overlooked tropical disease that is caused by an intestinal fluke which goes by the same name and is a member of the Fasciolidae family. The infection is acquired by humans and pigs living in rural and peri-urban regions of Asia the most, including China, India, and Bangladesh, where both sanitation and water sources are inadequate.

Stages of the Fasciola hepatica life cycle involved in human infection. Fig.1 Life cycle stages of Fasciola hepatica involved in the infection of humans. (Mas-Coma S., et al., 2018)

The primary hosts of the parasite are human beings and pigs. The life cycle of the Fasciolopsis buski fluke starts with freshwater snails belonging to the Planorbidae family. These snails function as intermediate hosts, where the parasite reproduces asexually. Humans acquire the ailment through consumption of contaminated aquatic plants. The metacercarial stage of the parasite is usually encysted when consumed. After the juvenile flukes are ingested by humans, they excyst in the intestine and grow into adult worms. The mature worms inflict immense damage and have profound pathological effects on the host.

Vaccine Development for Fascioliasis

Protein-Based Vaccines

Research has been able to screen many proteins from F. buski that can elicit immune responses for example cathepsin L-like proteases might be suitable as vaccines because of how they aid the parasites pathogenesis and survival.

DNA Vaccines

Genetic immunization of plasmid DNA that encodes for F. buski antigens has been shown to induce the desired protective immunity in experimental settings. This technique eliminates the requirement of using live weakened or inactivated organisms, making it much safer.

Recombinant Vaccines

Recombinant technology makes it possible to manufacture particular F. buski antigens in a controlled environment. These antigens can then be used in the formulation of vaccines aimed at getting the host's immune system to attack the parasite.

Therapeutics Development for Fascioliasis

Praziquantel: This drug is first choice of therapy against fasciolopsiasis. It paralyzes the worms so that the immune response of the host can eliminate them. There is ongoing research for formulations of praziquantel that will be more effective and have fewer side effects.

Nitazoxanide: Nitazoxanide is effective in eliminating F. buski infections and is used as an alternative to praziquantel, especially where there is suspected or known resistance to praziquantel.

Natural Products: The use of natural products in the formulation of new anthelmintics seems to be an area of increasing interest. Some plant extracts and their metabolites are being investigated for their ability to change the physiology of the parasite which is a new avenue in therapy.

Our Services

Protheragen is a leader in the control of fasciolopsiasis because we are actively developing new approaches to control this disease. Among our services is the design and development of vaccines and therapeutics, which are modified to complex requirements of this disease.

Vaccine Development

Therapeutic Development

Disease Models

Fasciolopsis buski Infection Mouse Models
Fasciolopsis buski Infection Pig Models
Fasciolopsis buski Infection Rat (Rattus norvegicus) Models

Protheragen's preclinical research services are designed to support the entire spectrum of vaccine and drug development. We offer:

Immunogenicity Studies: Assessing the immune response to potential vaccine candidates in relevant animal models.
Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Analysis: Determining the behavior of drug candidates within the host to optimize dosing regimens.
Drug Safety Evaluation: Conducting rigorous testing to ensure that our vaccines and therapeutics meet the highest standards of safety and effectiveness before they advance to clinical trials.

If you are interested in our services, please feel free to contact us.

References

Mas-Coma S., M. D. Bargues, and M. A. Valero. "Human fascioliasis infection sources, their diversity, incidence factors, analytical methods, and prevention measures." Parasitology 145.13 (2018): 1665-1699.
Rufino-Moya, Pablo José, et al. "Advancement in Diagnosis, Treatment, and Vaccines against Fasciola hepatica: A Comprehensive Review." Pathogens 13.8 (2024): 669.

All of our services and products are intended for preclinical research use only and cannot be used to diagnose, treat or manage patients.