Project: Hybridization as a driver for the spread of schistosomiasis: an integrative approach to evaluate the invasive capacity of schistosome hybrids under praziquantel pressure

Acronym	SEN_HYBRID_INVASION (Reference Number: TMA2018CDF-2370)
Duration	01/01/2020 - 31/12/2022
Project Topic	Human schistosomiasis is a Neglected Tropical Disease caused by schistosome helminth worms with impressive epidemiological statistics associated: 800 million people at risk in 78 countries, > 230 million infected and > 200 000 deaths each year. The disease is highly endemic in sub-Saharan Africa where it persists despite mass drug administration with Praziquantel (PZQ). Some schistosomes are specific to humans and induce two main disease forms (either mesenteric or uro-genital) while others are associated with wild animals. However, hybridization can occur between different schistosome species. In northern Senegal, hybridization between schistosome species specific to humans and animals is now known to be frequent with the potential risk of zoonotic transmission. Additionally hybrids may present vigor compared to their pure parental forms and hence, may be less sensitive to PZQ. This proposal aims at better understanding the role of hybridization in the dynamics of human and livestock schistosomiasis transmission in Senegal. The objectives are to (i) determine the current prevalence and intensities of human schistosomiasis, (ii) study the outcomes of S. haematobium X S. bovis hybrids on snail infectivity, (iii) evaluate the sensitivity of hybrids schistosome populations to PZQ according to parasite genetic introgression levels, (iv) characterize the frequency of hybrids and their level of genomic introgression. To achieve these objectives, we will use an integrative approach combining a genetic monitoring study of the parasite communities infecting human populations in areas with high hybrid prevalence in Senegal before and after repeated PZQ treatment. Parental and hybrid life history traits (i.e. sensibility to PZQ; host spectrum) will be investigated in controlled laboratory experiments. This proposal will allow the training of a Senegalese junior researcher to initiate a biomedical research career on schistosomiasis in Senegal in the context of One-health but also constitute an opportunity to consolidate the partnerships with European and local laboratories, heath organizations and Universities. This will allow for a locally managed network to undertake larger projects with the ultimate goal of better understanding the dynamics of schistosome populations and in particular the emergence of hybrids but also to take part in the reflection on the strategies of schistosomiasis elimination in Senegal and more broadly in sub-Saharan Africa.
Network	EDCTP2
Call	Career Development Fellowships 2018

Project partner

Number	Name	Role	Country
1	Stellenbosch University	Coordinator	South Africa