Advancing Drug Discovery for Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs)

Dear Colleagues，

Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) encompass a diverse group of conditions primarily caused by viruses, bacteria, protozoa, or helminths. The WHO has listed 25 diseases (https://www.who.int/health-topics/neglected-tropical-diseases#tab=tab_1) that disproportionately affect the developing world with a significant impact in terms of quality of life and social and economic growth.

The extensive efforts of the World Health Organization (WHO), the Drugs for Neglected Diseases Initiative (DNDi), and charitable foundations have resulted in a significant reduction in the spread of NTDs. Despite this, several aspects, such as access to remote regions, drug resistance, environmental changes, and conflicts in the countries involved, risk undermining the positive results achieved. In light of this, strategies aimed to limit the negative impact of NTDs should be implemented.

Therefore, this Special issue seeks to collect research articles and reviews regarding the control, elimination, and eradication of NTDs. Structure–activity relationship (SAR) studies providing novel bioactive molecules for the prevention and treatment of NTDs will be taken into account. The identification of new building blocks, warheads, and pharmacophores, as well as novel approaches useful for reducing the presence of vectors, providing new diagnostic tools and technology, and optimizing issues of druggability, are welcome.

Dr. Santo Previti
Dr. Nicola Micale
Guest Editors

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