Nanotechnology based approaches to the treatment of schistosomiasis: current status and future perspectives

Schistosomiasis is the most impactful Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) affecting over 240 million people in impoverished tropical and subtropical regions across 78 countries. Despite significant advances in research, praziquantel (PZQ) remains the only available treatment, raising concerns about the emergence of tolerant or resistant Schistosoma strains due to its prolonged and exclusive use. This highlights the urgent need for alternative drugs and therapies. In this context, nanotechnology has emerged as a promising strategy to address the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic limitations of conventional drugs, offering improved solubility, controlled release, enhanced bioavailability, and targeted delivery. This review presents a comprehensive analysis of nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems, such as liposomes, niosomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, lipid nanocapsules, and chitosan nanoparticles with demonstrated antischistosomal activity. It explores the application of both natural and synthetic compounds in various nanoformulations tested in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, it discusses current challenges and future perspectives in the development of nanotechnology-driven therapies for schistosomiasis, reinforcing their potential as innovative alternatives to conventional treatment.