Capillariasis is a parasitic infection in humans caused by two species of capillarid worms: Capillaria hepatica and Capillaria philippinensis. C. hepatica is spread through contact with the feces of infected animals and can result in hepatitis. Our company offers comprehensive services for the development of capillariasis vaccines, leveraging cutting-edge research and advanced technologies, providing high-quality services to support your research.
Introduction to Capillariasis
Capillariasis is a rare parasitic disease caused by Capillaria species, most commonly Capillaria philippinensis, which primarily affects the small intestine, leading to symptoms like chronic diarrhea, malabsorption, and weight loss. It is endemic in certain tropical and subtropical regions, particularly Southeast Asia. The incidence of human intestinal capillariasis is relatively low but can increase in areas with poor sanitation and consumption of raw or undercooked fish, which harbor the larvae.
Fig.1 Life cycle of Capillaria philippinensis. (Hassan, M. A., et al., 2020)
Diagnosis Development of Capillariasis
The diagnosis of capillariasis has advanced with the development of several laboratory techniques, ranging from microscopy to molecular methods. These approaches aim to improve accuracy and address challenges like cross-reactivity. The following table outlines key diagnostic methods, their targets, and limitations.
Table 1. Laboratory diagnosis of human intestinal capillariasis
|
Diagnostic approaches |
Methods |
Targets |
Remarks |
| Microscopy |
Stool; duodenal aspirate |
Characteristic eggs, larvae and adults |
Most commonly used test Limitation: Eggs may be confused with Trichuris trichiura eggs. |
| Serology |
Sandwich ELISA |
Coproantigen detection in stool |
Sensitive but lacks specificity due to cross-reactions with parasites like Fasciola gigantica, Clonorchis sinensis, and hydatid antigen. |
| ICT |
Antibody detection by using Trichinella spiralis antigen |
Rapid results with 100% sensitivity, but cross-reacts with trichuriasis, gnathostomiasis, angiostrongyloidiasis, and is not widely available. |
| Molecular methods |
ASP-2, TS, TSA-1 |
SSU r DNA |
Highly sensitive and specific, but technically demanding with limited availability. |
Vaccine Development for Capillariasis
Vaccine research for capillariasis is still in its nascent stages, primarily focused on fundamental research and preclinical animal studies. Key areas of investigation include:
- Antigen Identification: Utilizing molecular biology techniques to identify immunogenic proteins from Capillaria species, such as surface antigens and secreted proteins.
- Immune Mechanism Exploration: Understanding the host immune responses to Capillaria infections to identify protective immune factors.
- Animal Model Development: Establishing reliable animal models (e.g., mice, rabbits) to study infection dynamics and evaluate vaccine candidates.
Our Services
At our company, we are proud to offer a comprehensive suite of services to support our clients in the development of innovative capillariasis vaccines and therapies. Our team of seasoned scientists, immunologists, and pharmacologists leverages state-of-the-art technologies and deep domain expertise to accelerate the progress of your projects.
Animal Models of Capillariasis
Drawing on our extensive expertise, we develop and employ animal models that accurately replicate the disease characteristics and therapeutic responses of capillariasis. These models are crucial for precisely studying the pathophysiology of capillariasis and for rigorously evaluating the safety and efficacy of potential therapies.
Pathogen Infection Models
Pathogen Infection Models are biological systems used in research to study the interactions between pathogens and hosts without manipulating or altering the host organism's genetic material.
Optional Models：Capillaria philippinensis-Infected Mouse Model; Capillaria hepatica-Infected Syrian Hamster Mode
Humanized Models
Humanized Models are biological systems used in research that involve the introduction of human cells or tissues without altering the host organism's genetic material.
Optional Models：BLT (Bone Marrow-Liver-Thymus) Humanized Mouse Model; hPBMC Engrafted NSG Mouse Model
In capillariasis therapy development, our team focuses on discovering and characterizing new antimicrobial agents, such as small molecules, peptides, and biologics, that target virulence factors. We also offer services to support the evaluation, optimization, and advancement of your therapeutic pipeline. If you are interested in our services, please don't hesitate to contact us.
References
- Kidner, R. Q., et al. "Lipids from a Snail Host Regulate the Multicellular Behavior of a Predator of Parasitic Schistosomes." iScience 27.9 (2024): 110724.
- Hassan, M. A., et al. "Antigen Recognition Patterns of Intestinal Capillariasis Using Immunoblot-Based Serodiagnosis." Acta Parasitol 65.4 (2020): 899-905.
All of our services and products are intended for preclinical research use
only and cannot be used to diagnose, treat or manage patients.
