The bacteria Wolbachia in filariae, a biological Russian dolls' system: New trends in antifilarial treatments

Abstract

Filarial nematode species can host Wolbachia bacterial endosymbionts. To understand the symbiosis, a higher level of complexity should be considered, taking in account the tripartite association between Wolbachia, fllariae and mammals. This overview article discusses the biology of Wolbachia in fllariae, including their distribution and phylogeny, mechanisms of action, inflammatory consequences on mummal host and biological control implications for filurlases. Potential directions for future research are also discussed.