Parasites are organisms that depend on a host for nourishment and survival, often at the host's expense. They absorb nutrients by feeding on the host, which frequently results in a variety of health complications. Although parasites typically do not kill their hosts outright, they can cause significant harm and transmit serious diseases. Amerigo Scientific offers a comprehensive suite of parasite related antibody products designed to aid researchers in advancing the field of parasitology. Our high-quality antibodies are essential tools for investigating parasite biology, host-parasite interactions, and the development of effective diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
Fig.1 The developmental stages of Entamoeba histolytica.
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Parasitic infections in humans are primarily triggered by three major groups: single-celled organisms known as protozoa, multicellular worms referred to as helminths, and external parasites, commonly called ectoparasites.
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Protozoa, alternatively termed protozoans, are a group of unicellular eukaryotic organisms. They embody the most fundamental, rudimentary, and ancient forms of animal existence. Often referred to as single-celled animals, these organisms can inhabit various environments within the human body, such as the intestines, blood, and tissues. The Protozoa kingdom includes around 30,000 known species. They commonly spread through contaminated food or water, direct person-to-person contact, or via the bite of a vector, leading to diseases in humans and other animals. Major types affecting humans include amoebas, ciliates, flagellates, and sporozoans.
Helminths, commonly referred to as parasitic worms, are multicellular organisms capable of living both inside and on the surface of their host's body, often leading to various degrees of harm. These parasitic organisms are divided into several categories, including roundworms (nematodes), flukes (trematodes), and tapeworms (cestodes). Infections by helminths such as hookworms and tapeworms often lead to conditions like anemia and intestinal discomfort in humans. Beyond their impact on human health, helminths are significant in ecological systems, acting as a food source for other creatures and contributing to nutrient cycling in the environment.
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Ectoparasites are organisms that reside on the exterior of a host's body, deriving their nourishment from the host's blood, skin, or other organic substances. These parasites can cause a range of issues for their hosts, including irritation, infections, and sometimes more severe health problems. Common examples of ectoparasites are fleas, head lice, pubic lice (also known as crabs), mites, and ticks.
Malaria: Malaria is a potentially fatal disease resulting from a parasitic infection that is spread through mosquito bites.>
Toxoplasmosis: Toxoplasmosis is a disease triggered by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii, often contracted through exposure to cat feces or consuming contaminated food.>
Head lice: Head lice are small insects that infest the scalp, causing itching, particularly around the back of the head, neck, and ears.
Giardiasis: Giardiasis is a parasitic infection resulting from Giardia, manifesting in symptoms such as diarrhea and abdominal cramps. It spreads through contaminated water, food, surfaces, and person-to-person contact.
Pinworms: Pinworms, or threadworms, are small white worms that often infect children, causing the condition known as enterobiasis.
The symptoms caused by parasitic infections can differ significantly depending on the type of parasite involved. In some cases, individuals may harbor the parasite without experiencing any symptoms, while others might not exhibit symptoms until a considerable time after the initial infection. Additionally, some people may remain asymptomatic yet unknowingly transmit the parasite to others who then develop noticeable symptoms. Here, we list several common symptoms in humans after parasite infection:
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Amerigo Scientific specializes in high-quality parasite related antibody products to support innovative research in the field of parasitology, helping researchers deepen their insight into parasite biology, host-parasite dynamics, and the creation of effective diagnostic and treatment solutions.
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