Microfluidic Culture Model for Drug Screening on Schistosome Parasites

Abstract

Schistosomiasis is a challenging parasitic model due to the absence of transgenic strains and systems allowing maintenance of heathy worms outside of their host (mammals). Classical in vitro studies (Petri dish) do not allow long-term survival of worm couples with retention of basic biological functions like mobility and pairing. We have designed a microfluidic device that sustainably cultivates adult worm couples. The influences of the composition and physical characteristics of mass flow on the mobility, pairing and long-term survival of worms have been studied. We have also assessed the effect of Praziquantel, the only therapeutic molecule currently in use.