Ion Channels and Drug Transporters as Targets for Anthelmintics

Infections with parasitic helminthes, such as schistosomes and soil-transmitted nematodes, are hugely prevalent and are responsible for a major portion of the global health and economic burdens associated with neglected tropical diseases. In addition, many of these parasites infect livestock and plants used in agriculture, resulting in further impoverishment. Treatment and control of these pathogens relies on anthelmintic drugs, which are few in number, and against which drug resistance can rapidly develop. The neuromuscular system of the parasite, and in particular, the ion channels and associated receptors underlying excitation and signaling, have proven to be outstanding targets for anthelmintics. This review surveys the different ion channels found in helminths, focusing on their unique characteristics and pharmacological sensitivities. It also briefly reviews the literature on helminth multidrug efflux that may modulate parasite susceptibility to anthelmintics and may prove useful targets for new or repurposed agents that can enhance parasite drug susceptibility and perhaps overcome drug resistance. © 2014, Springer International Publishing AG.