Whole genome analysis of a schistosomiasis-transmitting freshwater snail

Nat Commun. 2017 May 16:8:15451. doi: 10.1038/ncomms15451.

Abstract

Biomphalaria snails are instrumental in transmission of the human blood fluke Schistosoma mansoni. With the World Health Organization's goal to eliminate schistosomiasis as a global health problem by 2025, there is now renewed emphasis on snail control. Here, we characterize the genome of Biomphalaria glabrata, a lophotrochozoan protostome, and provide timely and important information on snail biology. We describe aspects of phero-perception, stress responses, immune function and regulation of gene expression that support the persistence of B. glabrata in the field and may define this species as a suitable snail host for S. mansoni. We identify several potential targets for developing novel control measures aimed at reducing snail-mediated transmission of schistosomiasis.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Animal Communication
  • Animals
  • Biomphalaria / genetics*
  • Biomphalaria / immunology
  • Biomphalaria / parasitology*
  • DNA Transposable Elements
  • Evolution, Molecular
  • Fresh Water
  • Gene Expression Regulation
  • Genome*
  • Host-Parasite Interactions
  • Pheromones
  • Proteome
  • Schistosoma mansoni
  • Schistosomiasis mansoni / transmission*
  • Sequence Analysis, DNA
  • Stress, Physiological

Substances

  • DNA Transposable Elements
  • Pheromones
  • Proteome