Nematodes Effects on Human Health
Main Article Content
Abstract
Nematodes, or roundworms, encompass a diverse group of organisms with significant implications for human health globally. This review explores the impact of nematodes on human health, focusing on parasitic infections and potential therapeutic applications. Parasitic nematodes infect over a billion people worldwide, causing diseases ranging from intestinal discomfort to severe systemic manifestations. Key parasitic nematodes include Ascaris lumbricoides, Necator americanus, Ancylostoma duodenale, Trichuris trichiura, Wuchereria bancrofti, and Onchocerca volvulus, each with distinct pathogenic mechanisms and clinical outcomes. Intestinal nematodes such as Ascaris and hookworms contribute to malnutrition, anemia, and impaired childhood development, particularly in regions with inadequate sanitation and hygiene. Tissue-invasive nematodes like Wuchereria bancrofti and Onchocerca volvulus cause lymphatic filariasis and onchocerciasis, leading to debilitating conditions such as lymphedema and blindness. The socio-economic impact of nematode infections is profound, encompassing healthcare costs, loss of productivity, and educational disruption. Control strategies primarily involve mass drug administration (MDA) of anthelmintic drugs, sanitation improvements, and vector control to mitigate transmission. However, emerging drug resistance poses challenges to effective disease management, necessitating innovative approaches and integrated interventions. Beyond their pathogenic role, nematodes offer potential therapeutic benefits. Research into their immunomodulatory effects has uncovered promising avenues for treating autoimmune diseases and allergies. Bioactive molecules produced by nematodes, including antibiotics and anti-inflammatories, hold pharmaceutical potential. Model nematodes like Caenorhabditis elegans provide insights into genetic pathways, development, and neurobiology, facilitating biomedical research and drug discovery. This abstract summarizes the multifaceted impact of nematodes on human health, emphasizing the need for comprehensive strategies to combat parasitic infections while exploring their therapeutic applications.