Early Genomic Indicators of Praziquantel Resistance in Schistosoma mansoni
A study published in Science Advances has identified early genomic indicators of praziquantel resistance in the parasite Schistosoma mansoni. Researchers found genetic variants in a specific ion channel that may reduce the effectiveness of the primary drug used to treat schistosomiasis.
Why it matters
Praziquantel is the cornerstone of global schistosomiasis control; the emergence of resistance could jeopardize decades of public health progress.
The warning signs are subtle—genetic variants scattered across a vast parasite genome—but together they sketch a picture that disease‑control and elimination programs can’t afford to ignore. A new study published in Science Advances , “ Extensive parasite transmission and variation in a functional receptor associated with drug resistance in endemic Schistosoma mansoni ,” reveals genomic changes in the parasite that cause schistosomiasis, which may reduce its sensitivity to praziquantel, the only drug currently available to treat the disease.
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