Parasitologia

Tick-borne diseases (TBDs) pose a significant threat to livestock productivity and rural livelihoods in South Africa, particularly among resource-poor communal farmers. This narrative review synthesises findings from case studies on communal farmers’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAPs) toward TBDs and their control. The analysis reveals that while many farmers can identify TBDs and their symptoms, significant gaps exist in understanding acaricide resistance and effective tick management. Socioeconomic factors, including age, gender, education, and access to veterinary services, strongly influence knowledge and practices. Indigenous ethnoveterinary practices are commonly used alongside conventional methods, although their efficacy remains understudied. The review emphasises the importance of integrated pest management, participatory approaches, and targeted awareness campaigns. A One Health framework is recommended to enhance surveillance, collaboration, and sustainable TBD control. Empowering farmers through training and inclusive communication strategies is crucial for mitigating the impacts of TBDs on communal farming systems.

It is now 35 years since the first review on the “The Molecular Epidemiology of Parasites” [...]

In continuation of our recent report on the antileishmanial activity of an ethanolic extract from leaves of Ptilostemon chamaepeuce subsp. cyprius (Pcc, Asteraceae), we have now isolated the main sesquiterpene lactone, deacylcynaropicrin, along with a minor derivative, 13-hydroxy-11β,13-dihydro-deacylcynaropicrin. The main constituent was tested for antileishmanial activity against promastigotes and amastigotes of Leishmania infantum (Lin), the causative agent of visceral leishmaniasis. Both STLs were tested against additional protozoan pathogens, including L. donovani, Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense (Tbr), and Plasmodium falciparum. The STL cynaropicrin from Artichoke (Cynara cardunculus), a congener of deacylcynaropicrin with a hydroxymethacrylate ester group, previously known to possess antiprotozoal activity, was retested against Lin for direct comparison. Cynaropicrin was found to be much more potent than either its deacyl congener or the hydroxylated derivative from Pcc against all tested parasites and also against an isolated parasite enzyme, Tbr pteridine reductase (TbPTR1). The ester moiety of cynaropicrin significantly enhances the antiprotozoal activity of this STL. Since cynaropicrin also displayed significant cytotoxicity against mammalian cells (L6 and J774A.1 cell lines), its utility as candidate for further development appears limited. However, this study provides valuable new insight into the structure–activity relationships of these compounds.