Skin is a critical interface for Trypanosoma brucei transmission

Trypanosoma brucei is transmitted by the tsetse fly bite and causes animal and human African trypanosomias e s. Sleeping sickness due to Trypanosoma brucei gambiense is targeted for elimination by the WHO. Traditionally viewed as bloodstream parasite s, th e trypanosome ’ s distribution has been reconsidered since T. brucei is in fact primarily present in extravascular spaces, particularly in the skin. These skin -dwelling forms remain poorly characterized but have profound implications in transmission and could impact diagnosis, treatment, and elimination efforts. We propose the dermis as a critical compartment, serving as both an anatomical reservoir sustaining parasite persistence and a direct interface between hosts. This article will focus on skin - resident parasites to review current knowledge and formulate key research questions that warrant further investigation.