09/08/2025
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1DGX2cgZ4c/
A tiny parasitic worm called Schistosoma Mansoni has developed a stealthy way to infect humans: it slips through the skin without causing pain or itching. Normally, the body would react with stinging, burning, or inflammation, but this parasite goes unnoticed—spreading schistosomiasis, a chronic disease that affects millions of people worldwide.
Researchers have uncovered the worm’s trick. It releases special molecules that switch off TRPV1+ sensory neurons—the nerves responsible for sensing heat, pain, and itching, and for activating immune defences. By silencing these neurons, the parasite avoids both discomfort and immune detection.
In experiments with mice, infected animals showed reduced sensitivity to heat and weaker immune responses, proving that the worm directly interferes with pain and defence pathways.
The discovery has implications beyond parasitology. The worm’s molecules could lead to new non-opioid painkillers, therapies for chronic inflammation, or even protective creams to prevent infection in areas where schistosomiasis is widespread.
RESEARCH PAPER 📄
PMID: 39975236
