The Hitchhikers Guide to Parasitology

Research Parasites have long roamed the Earth, exploiting their host for energy, reproduction and ultimate survival of their species.

From 10-metre-long tapeworms to brain-controlling fungi to apicomplexan parasites capable of invading the cells of their hosts causing disease and death, it is evident that parasites are complex and diverse. Despite their importance, parasites are often neglected in research particularly in places where their impact isn’t well documented.

In Aotearoa New Zealand the apicomplexan parasite, Cryptosporidium parvum, is responsible for disease in livestock and humans. In fact, New Zealand has comparatively high rates of Cryptosporidium infections compared to other countries in the developed world. To make matters worse, we currently do not have a reproducible reliable in vitro continuous culture for studying C. parvum and current drugs for the disease are inconsistent, ineffective and expensive.

During this PhD project we delved deeply into the potential methods for developing a continuous in vitro culture of C. parvum. This led further into the world of sci-fi by exploring a culture containing only the parasites – a parasite culture with no host cells. Furthermore, we investigated novel peptoids for their potential anti-cryptosporidial activity and suitability as a treatment option.

Ultimately this research hopes to guide other parasitologists with advancing our understanding of parasitic disease and developing more effective treatments.