Helminth Microbiomes – A Hidden Treasure Trove?

• Published in: Trends in parasitology Vol. 35; no. 1; pp. 13 - 22
• Main Authors: Jenkins, T.P., Brindley, P.J., Gasser, R.B., Cantacessi, C.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England Elsevier Ltd 01-01-2019
• Subjects: helminth; host–parasite interactions; macrobiota; microbiota; nematode; microbiota; nematode; helminth; host–parasite interactions; macrobiota
• ISSN: 1471-4922; 1471-5007
• DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2018.10.007

There is increasing attention on the complex interactions occurring between gastrointestinal parasitic helminths and the microbial flora (microbiota) inhabiting the host gut. However, little is known about the occurrence, structure, and function of microbial populations residing within parasite organs and tissues. In this article, we argue that an in-depth understanding of the interplay between parasites and their microbiomes may significantly enhance current knowledge of parasite biology and physiology, and may lead to the discovery of entirely novel, anthelmintic-independent interventions against parasites and parasitic diseases.
In spite of a plethora of evidence supporting key roles of resident bacteria for parasite fitness and survival (i.e., in filarial nematodes and whipworms), little is known of microbial populations inhabiting organs and tissues of gastrointestinal nematodes of major socioeconomic significance.
To date, one of the few well characterised examples is the symbiotic relationship between bacteria of the genus Wolbachia and filarial nematodes.
Notably, our understanding of this symbiosis has already been successfully exploited for therapeutic purposes.
The relentless advancement in sequencing techniques, together with the rise of novel microbiome editing tools provide unprecedented opportunities to investigate helminth microbiomes and exploit parasite–microbiome relationships for the development of novel strategies of parasite control.