Pinworm infection, scientifically referred to as enterobiasis, is a common parasitic condition triggered by the nematode Enterobius vermicularis. Our company specializes in providing a wide range of services dedicated to the development of vaccines and therapeutics for addressing pinworm infestations.
Introduction to Pinworm Infection
Pinworm infection, caused by the nematode parasite Enterobius vermicularis, predominantly impacts children but can affect individuals of all ages. The pinworm's life cycle, while simple, is remarkably efficient, contributing to its high transmission rate, particularly in crowded environments with poor hygiene practices. Adult pinworms typically inhabit the human colon, with gravid females migrating to the perianal region during the night to lay their eggs. This nocturnal behavior not only facilitates the spread of infection but also leads to intense itching, prompting scratching and further dispersal of eggs into the surroundings.
Fig.1 A microscopic specimen of an adult Enterobius vermicularis. (Wendt S., et al., 2019)
Vaccine Development for Pinworm Infection
Subunit vaccines are designed to elicit an immune response by using specific antigens derived from the pathogen. Recent studies have identified several immunogenic protein bands from E. vermicularis eggs, such as 21 kDa, 66 kDa, and 151 kDa, which hold potential as candidates for subunit vaccines. These proteins could be synthesized and purified to create a vaccine capable of stimulating an adaptive immune response in the host without the risk of causing disease.
DNA vaccines represent an innovative approach, wherein plasmid DNA encoding specific E. vermicularis antigens is introduced into the host. While there are currently no licensed DNA vaccines for pinworm, ongoing research aims to identify the most immunogenic sequences and assess their safety and efficacy through preclinical and clinical trials. This approach's flexibility and adaptability make it a compelling avenue for future vaccine development.
Therapeutics Development for Pinworm Infection
The primary therapeutics for pinworm infections is the use of anthelmintic drugs such as mebendazole and pyrantel pamoate. These medications function by inhibiting the metabolism of the worms, leading to their death and subsequent elimination from the host. However, the efficacy of these therapeutics is often undermined by reinfection and autoinfection, where individuals inadvertently ingest eggs from contaminated surfaces or their own hands.
Research is ongoing to develop more effective anthelmintic agents with broader mechanisms of action. For example, novel compounds that target the neurophysiology of the pinworm could provide new therapeutic options and address the limitations of current therapeutics.
Our Services
Within our vaccine development services, we engage in antigen identification, immunoassay development, and preclinical testing. Our methodology integrates molecular biology, immunology, and bioinformatics to craft vaccines that are both effective and safe.
Apart from vaccines, we are dedicated to pioneering novel therapeutics. Our adept team utilizes diverse techniques such as rational drug design and high-throughput screening to pinpoint potential drug candidates and enhance their pharmacological characteristics.
- Aspiculuris tetraptera Infection Models
- Syphacia obvelata Infection Models
- Syphacia muris Infection Models
- Enterobius vermicularis Infection Models
- Passafurus ambiguus Infection Models
We conduct rigorous in vitro and in vivo studies to evaluate the effectiveness of our vaccine and drug candidates. These studies include assessments of parasite burden, host immune response, and potential side effects. If you are interested in our services, please feel free to contact us.
References
- Wendt Sebastian, et al. "The diagnosis and treatment of pinworm infection." Deutsches Ärzteblatt International 116.13 (2019): 213.
- De Kostha, YBN Sanduni, et al. "Characterization of antigens of Enterobius vermicularis (pinworm) eggs." Scientific Reports 12.1 (2022): 14414.
All of our services and products are intended for preclinical research use
only and cannot be used to diagnose, treat or manage patients.
