Insights into Fasciola hepatica Juveniles: Crossing the Fasciolosis Rubicon. Issue 1 (January 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: González-Miguel, Javier; Becerro-Recio, David; Siles-Lucas, Mar
• Is Part Of: Trends in parasitology. Volume 37:Issue 1(2021)
• Page Start: 35
• Page End: 47
• Publication Date: 2021-01
• Subjects: Fasciola hepatica -- newly excysted juveniles -- fasciolosis -- intestinal wall -- host–parasite relationships; Parasitology -- Periodicals; Parasitology -- Periodicals; Biology -- Periodicals; Parasitology; Biology; Parasitologie -- Périodiques; Online resources; 571.999
• DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2020.09.007
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1471-4922

Abstract

Abstract : Unraveling the molecular interactions governing the first contact between parasite and host tissues is of paramount importance to the development of effective control strategies against parasites. In fasciolosis, a foodborne trematodiasis caused mainly by Fasciola hepatica, these early interactions occur between the juvenile worm and the host intestinal wall a few hours after ingestion of metacercariae, the infectious stage of the parasite. However, research on these early events is still scarce and the majority of studies have focused on the adult worm. Here, we review current knowledge on the biology and biochemistry of F. hepatica juveniles and their molecular relationships with the host tissues and identify the research needs and gaps to be covered in the future. Highlights: Control strategies against fasciolosis have been generally directed towards the adult form of the parasite, even though its definitive location in the host bile ducts represents a niche that seems to be poorly accessible to the host immunity. Despite its importance during the course of infection, research studies aimed at unraveling host–parasite crosstalk at the early stages of fasciolosis are still scarce. We review the most recent available data on the Fasciola hepatica juveniles in relation to their biology, metabolism, and antigenic repertoire, their key functions in parasite migration and immune evasion, and their potential as therapeutic targets. We highlight the latest developments in in vitro models to study the host–juvenile parasite interface, and the potential of new -omics approaches as tools for identifying effective therapeutic strategies against fasciolosis.