The development of effective vaccines and therapies is crucial for mitigating the impact of trichomoniasis. Our company offers comprehensive services in the development of vaccines and therapeutics for trichomoniasis. Leveraging cutting-edge technologies and a deep understanding of the parasite's biology, we are at the forefront of innovation in this field.
Overview of Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis, a widespread sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the protozoan parasite Trichomonas vaginalis, stands as the most prevalent non-viral STI on a global scale. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the estimated annual incidence of new cases reaches approximately 156 million. This infection primarily impacts the urogenital tract, resulting in a range of health complications, especially among women. Common symptoms in women encompass vaginitis marked by a frothy yellow-green discharge, genital irritation, and dysuria, while men may encounter urethritis or remain asymptomatic.
Fig.1 Analysis of the prevalence of urogenital trichomonas infection. (Patel E. U., et al., 2018)
Vaccine Development for Trichomoniasis
- Protein-Based Vaccines
Protein-based vaccines are one of the most researched approaches for trichomoniasis vaccine development, targeting specific antigens of T. vaginalis. One notable example is the exploration of recombinant α-actinin subunit antigens. This protein has shown promise due to its role in the parasite's motility and virulence. Preclinical studies have demonstrated that immunization with α-actinin can elicit an immune response capable of reducing parasitic load, indicating its potential as a vaccine candidate.
- DNA Vaccines
DNA vaccines represent a novel strategy for inducing immunity against T. vaginalis. These vaccines utilize plasmid DNA encoding specific T. vaginalis antigens to stimulate an immune response. Initial studies have shown that DNA vaccination can elicit both humoral and cellular immune responses, which are critical for effective protection against infections. For instance, the use of plasmids encoding the T. vaginalis trans-sialidase enzyme has been investigated, with promising results in animal models.
- Subunit Vaccines
Subunit vaccines, which consist of purified proteins or glycoproteins from the parasite, are another viable approach. These vaccines can be designed to include multiple antigens to elicit a broad immune response. Research has highlighted several proteins, such as the T. vaginalis adhesin and various surface glycoproteins, which could serve as effective components of a subunit vaccine.
Therapeutics Development for Trichomoniasis
Antimicrobial Therapy
Current therapeutics for trichomoniasis primarily involves the use of 5-nitroimidazole antibiotics, including metronidazole (MTZ), tinidazole, and secnidazole. MTZ has been the gold standard therapy, but increasing resistance has raised concerns regarding its efficacy. Ongoing research aims to investigate alternative therapeutics regimens and the potential for combination therapies to
Drug Repurposing
Drug repurposing is an innovative strategy that involves utilizing existing medications for new therapeutic indications. In the case of trichomoniasis, compounds originally developed for other infections are being assessed for their efficacy against Trichomonas vaginalis. Ongoing investigations into the use of antifungal agents, such as fluconazole, are underway.
Our Services
Vaccine Development Services: We specialize in the design and preclinical testing of recombinant subunit vaccines, DNA vaccines, and other novel vaccine platforms. Our services include antigen identification, expression system development, immunogenicity testing, and safety assessment.
Therapeutics Development Services: Our therapeutics development services encompass drug discovery, lead optimization, and preclinical testing. We utilize a range of in vitro and in vivo models to evaluate the efficacy and safety of new chemical entities and biologics against T. vaginalis.
Preclinical Research
- Pharmacodynamics Study Services
- Pharmacokinetics Study Services
- Drug Safety Evaluation Services
Disease Models
- T. vaginalis Infection Murine (Mouse) Models
- T. vaginalis Infection Rat Models
- T. vaginalis Infection Squirrel Monkey Models
- T. vaginalis Infection Guinea-Pig Models
- T. vaginalis Infection Hamster Models
Our immunological assays provide detailed insights into the host's immune response to vaccination or drug therapeutics. We assess humoral and cellular immune responses to inform the development of more effective vaccines and therapies. If you are interested in our services, please feel free to contact us.
References
- Patel, Eshan U., et al. "Prevalence and correlates of Trichomonas vaginalis infection among men and women in the United States." Clinical Infectious Diseases 67.2 (2018): 211-217.
- Van Gerwen, Olivia T., et al. "Trichomoniasis." Infectious Disease Clinics 37.2 (2023): 245-265.
- Xie, Yi-Ting, et al. "Recombinant α-actinin subunit antigens of Trichomonas vaginalis as potential vaccine candidates in protecting against trichomoniasis." Parasites & vectors 10 (2017): 1-12.
- Chapwanya, Aspinas, Abubakar Yusha'U. Usman, and Pete Charles Irons. "Comparative aspects of immunity and vaccination in human and bovine trichomoniasis: a review." Tropical animal health and production 48 (2016): 1-7.
All of our services and products are intended for preclinical research use
only and cannot be used to diagnose, treat or manage patients.
