![]() We have produced draft genomes for 45 nematode and platyhelminth species and predicted 0.8 million protein-coding genes, with 9,132–17,274 genes per species (5–95% percentile range see Methods, Supplementary Tables 1– 3, Supplementary Fig. Genomic diversity in parasitic nematodes and platyhelminths Comparing the genomes of parasites from these two phyla may reveal common strategies employed to subvert host defenses and drive disease processes. The phylum Platyhelminthes is part of the superphylum Lophotrochozoa and the majority of parasite species are cestodes (tapeworms) and trematodes (flukes). The phylum Nematoda is part of the superphylum Ecdysozoa and has five major clades (I to V), four of which contain human-infective parasites and are analyzed here (Fig. The commonly used nematicides of plant parasites are environmentally toxic 7, and need replacement. There are no vaccines for humans, and few for animals 6. Repeated mass administration of monotherapies is increasing the risk of resistance to human anthelmintics 4 and has driven widespread resistance in farm animals 5. Parasitic nematodes and platyhelminths impede economic development through human disability, and billions of dollars of lost production in the livestock 2 and crop 3 industries.įew drugs are available to treat worm infections. These diseases encompass many of the most neglected tropical diseases and attract little research investment. Although rarely lethal, infections are typically chronic, leading to pain, malnutrition, physical disabilities, delayed development, deformity, social stigma or a burden on family members caring for the afflicted. Over a quarter of humans are infected with parasitic nematodes (roundworms) or platyhelminths (flatworms) 1. ![]()
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