It is vital to create efficient vaccines and therapies to mitigate the effects of trichomoniasis. Our company offers comprehensive services in the development of vaccines and therapeutics for trichomoniasis. Leveraging cutting-edge technologies and a deep understanding of the parasite's biology, we are at the forefront of innovation in this field.
Overview of Trichomoniasis
The most common non-viral sexually transmitted infection is trichomoniasis, a protozoan infection brought about by the Trichomonas vaginalis parasite. The WHO claims that the annual new incidences of this infection ranges around an astonishing 156 million cases. This infection mostly targets the urogenital region, causing a number of problems, more so in women. In women, common complaints include vaginitis with yellow-green frothy discharge, genital discomfort, and painful urination, while in men, most cases are either asymptomatic or present urethritis.
Fig.1 Analysis of the prevalence of urogenital trichomonas infection. (Patel E. U., et al., 2018)
Vaccine Development for Trichomoniasis
- Protein-Based Vaccines
One of the most studied approaches towards the development of a vaccine for trichomoniasis involves the use of protein-based vaccines directed towards specific antigens of T. vaginalis. A particular case in point is the investigation of recombinant α-actinin subunit antigens. This protein is interesting owing to its putative functions in mobility and virulence of the parasite. Studies have shown that immunization using α-actinin can elicit an immune response that is capable of altering the parasitic load, thus establishing a proof of concept for a potential vaccine candidate.
- DNA Vaccines
The use of DNA Vaccine is a new method of inducing immunity against T. vaginalis. This vaccine type contains a plasmid DNA that is specific for the T. vaginalis antigens which induce an immune response. Based on the initial data, DNA vaccination, if done properly, can incite both the humoral and cellular immune responses. These factors are important in providing the required protection against infections. For example, the use of plasmids with the T. vaginalis trans-sialidase enzyme has been studied with good success in animal trials.
- Subunit Vaccines
Glycoproteins or proteins isolated from the parasite and used in the formulation of subunit vaccines provide a more feasible approach. It is possible to incorporate multiple antigens in the vaccine which will in turn promote a wider immune response. Several proteins for instance, the T. vaginalis adhesin and different surface glycoproteins have also been revealed which can effectively serve as components for subunit vaccines.
Therapeutics Development for Trichomoniasis
Antimicrobial Therapy
Therapeutic options for trichomoniasis rely on pharmacological treatment with 5-nitroimidazole antibiotics including metronidazole (MTZ), tinidazole, and secnidazole. The therapy based on metronidazole has been widely accepted; however, increased resistance has diminished its effectiveness. Alternate therapeutic regimens are being explored as well as the possibility of combination therapy to treat the infection.
Drug Repurposing
Drug repurposing is the newest approach where already approved drugs are being sought for additional claims. For instance, antifungal agents, such as Azoles or imidazoles, as well as other compounds made for different infections are being investigated for their use against Trichomonas vaginalis, the causative organism of infection trichomoniasis. Research on efficacy of fluconazole is also in progress.
Our Services
Vaccine Development Services: We specialize in the design and preclinical testing of recombinant subunit vaccines, DNA vaccines, and other novel vaccine platforms. Our services include antigen identification, expression system development, immunogenicity testing, and safety assessment.
Therapeutics Development Services: Our therapeutics development services encompass drug discovery, lead optimization, and preclinical testing. We utilize a range of in vitro and in vivo models to evaluate the efficacy and safety of new chemical entities and biologics against T. vaginalis.
Preclinical Research
- Pharmacodynamics Study Services
- Pharmacokinetics Study Services
- Drug Safety Evaluation Services
Disease Models
- T. vaginalis Infection Murine (Mouse) Models
- T. vaginalis Infection Rat Models
- T. vaginalis Infection Squirrel Monkey Models
- T. vaginalis Infection Guinea-Pig Models
- T. vaginalis Infection Hamster Models
Our immunological assays provide detailed insights into the host's immune response to vaccination or drug therapeutics. We assess humoral and cellular immune responses to inform the development of more effective vaccines and therapies. If you are interested in our services, please feel free to contact us.
References
- Patel, Eshan U., et al. "Prevalence and correlates of Trichomonas vaginalis infection among men and women in the United States." Clinical Infectious Diseases 67.2 (2018): 211-217.
- Van Gerwen, Olivia T., et al. "Trichomoniasis." Infectious Disease Clinics 37.2 (2023): 245-265.
- Xie, Yi-Ting, et al. "Recombinant α-actinin subunit antigens of Trichomonas vaginalis as potential vaccine candidates in protecting against trichomoniasis." Parasites & vectors 10 (2017): 1-12.
- Chapwanya, Aspinas, Abubakar Yusha'U. Usman, and Pete Charles Irons. "Comparative aspects of immunity and vaccination in human and bovine trichomoniasis: a review." Tropical animal health and production 48 (2016): 1-7.
All of our services and products are intended for preclinical research use
only and cannot be used to diagnose, treat or manage patients.
