How the Genes of One Species of Snail Can Fight Against Schitosomisis

A group of genes that has been recently discovered by researchers at Oregon State University in a particular species of snail has been found to provide a natural resistance to the flatworm parasite that causes schistosomiasis. Schistosomiasis--also know as bilharzia--is a devastating parasitic disease cause by flatworms that affects more than 200 million people worldwide; however, it was originally native to Africa. The disease can cause chronic, lifelong disability that begins with gastrointestinal problems, of which can lead to liver damage, kidney failure, infertility, and bladder cancer. It is also considered one of the Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) since not many are aware of the large impact schistosomiasis has despite the fact that it is second to malaria as the most devastating parasitic disease.

The parasites that cause this disease live in certain types of snails.  The infectious form of the parasite emerges from the snail and thus, contaminates the water people use. It is for this reason that researchers have begun studying snails to further understand the transmission cycle of the disease. As it turns out, researchers have discovered a new class of genes in a species of snails that appears to be responsible for controlling the ability to resist schistosomiasis. They found that the dominant form of the genetic allele in this region reveals an eight-fold decrease in the risk of schistosomiasis.

These genes were found to be the type to help recognize pathogens and trigger an immune response--with further research, the exact genetics will be better understood. Nonetheless, this new discovery has now opened doors for efforts in treating or controlling schistosomiasis. Using this new information, the development of a new drug could be used to prevent the disease or scientists may attempt to inject the parasite-resistant genes into snails that are not resistant to schistosomiasis--this method, however, is less practical. Although there is still much research and experimentation that must be completed first, this discovery has been critical in opening pathways for new potential treatments to control and prevent this highly debilitating disease.

Original Article: click here.
About Schistosomiasis: click here.