Plant-derived compounds for the treatment of schistosomiasis: Improving efficacy via nano-drug delivery

Schistosomiasis is a neglected infectious tropical disease that is second in occurrence only to hookworm infection in sub-Saharan Africa. Presently, chemotherapy is the main method of control and treatment of this disease due to the absence of a vaccine. However, Praziquantel, which is the only chemotherapeutic option, lacks efficacy against the early developmental stages of schistosomes. A number of plant-derived compounds, including alkaloids, terpenes and phenolics, have displayed in vitro and in vivo efficacy against Schistosoma species. This review explores how the application of nanotechnology can improve the efficacy of these plant-derived schistosomicidal compounds through the use of nano-enabled drug delivery systems to improve bioavailability.