Hookworm infection: Molecular mechanisms of disease and targets for control

Abstract

Bloodfeeding hookworms, which infect nearly one billion people, represent a major global health problem. Recent advances in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms of hookworm anemia and growth delay have opened exciting new avenues for disease control. Much of this work has focused on the identification of major hookworm virulence factors, including proteins secreted by the larval and adult stages of the parasite. These novel molecules represent potential targets for drug and vaccine strategies designed to prevent hookworm disease worldwide. © 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.