Vaccines against Toxoplasma gondii: Status, challenges and future directions

Abstract

Toxoplasma gondii is a ubiquitous protozoan parasite that can infect a wide range of animals including humans. This single known species in the genus Toxoplasma is considered as one of the most successful eukaryotic pathogens which is of major medical and veterinary importance. Effective vaccines may contribute toward preventing and controlling the spread of toxoplasmosis. The present communication addresses the current status of development of vaccines against T. gondii . Further discussion is made on the difficulties along with challenges, such as vaccine construct, mode of vaccine administration and standardization of immunization evaluation. Finally suggestions are made on possible directions for future research on the development of vaccines against T. gondii. © 2012 Landes Bioscience.