Ion Channels as Targets for Parasiticides: A Brief Review of Past, Present, and Future Directions

Scientists have tried for decades to find approaches that balance safety of the patient with efficacy in treating parasitic infections.  One approach is to target specifically the parasite’s important bodily functions while sparing the host.  This is where ion channels come in.  Ion channel proteins in biological membranes are vital to cellular function, and play crucial roles in animals ranging from nerve and muscle function to metabolism and immune function.  This study examines four antiparasitic compounds that target ion channels – pyrethrins, picrotoxin, piperazine, and ivermectin.  These compounds were discovered independently, at very different times in history, yet they all successfully target ion channels and cause cellular dysfunction in parasites.  This project explores the history of their discovery and use, subsequent generations of parasiticides that followed, and prospective new targets for treatment.