Abstract:

The treatment of schistosomiasis has been relying on the mere use of praziquantel. However, the concern of drug resistance caused by long-term use has urged the development of new drugs against schistosomes. There is a solid evidence that iron plays a critical role in the development and reproduction of schistosomes. Hence, it may be a potential effective way to control schistosomiasis by designing a therapeutic target based on the iron metabolism of schistosomes. This paper reviews the recent studies on iron metabolism of schistosomes, in order to provide theoretical reference for the development of new drugs and therapeutics.
 

Key words: Schistosoma japonicum, Iron metabolism, Ferritin