A Novel Device for High-Throughput Phenotypic Screening of Schistosoma Mansoni Miracidia

Abstract

Schistosomiasis, a neglected tropical disease caused by three parasitic flatworm species, including Schistosoma mansoni, relies on freshwater snails as intermediate hosts. Interrupting the parasite’s ability to locate snails could provide a novel strategy for disease control. Praziquantel is the current treatment of choice for human infections, and it exerts its effect by targeting transient receptor potential (TRP) channels on the parasite, leading to death of the worm. Despite its effectiveness in eliminating adult parasites, treated individuals remain susceptible to reinfection. In this study, a drug screening approach was used to identify compounds targeting the transient TRP receptors in miracidia, a larval stage of the parasite. A custom 96-well acrylic device was designed; worms were added to each well and treated with 10 µM of drug. The impact of each compound on miracidia behavior was assessed to identify potential drug candidates. To accurately monitor their responses, a high-resolution recording device was utilized. This system enabled precise observation of miracidia motility and orientation, allowing identification of compounds that disrupt general movement or host-seeking behavior. Preliminary findings suggest that TRP channel modulators play a role in altering miracidia navigation, offering a promising avenue for disrupting the parasite’s life cycle.