Abstract
Abstract Terpenoids are the largest and structurally most diverse group of secondary metabolites derived from natural sources. Empirical evidence from several bioassays points to the therapeutic potentials of terpenoids against protozoan parasitic diseases such as malaria, trypanosomiasis, and leishmaniasis. The versatility of the parent terpenoid backbones allows for structural diversity among the group, which in turn leads to multiple cellular targets and consequently varying mechanisms of antiparasitic action. Available data implicate disruption of parasite cell membrane architecture, interference with mitochondrial respiration, interaction with various crucial proteins of the parasites among other probable mechanisms. Identification of the specific cellular targets vis-a-vis the mechanisms of action of the different terpenoids will aid the design of novel and safer antiparasitic agent(s). This chapter therefore aims to discuss parasites-related cellular targets of terpenoids and their mode of antiparasitic activity. We hope that the chapter will be a valuable source of useful information in the exploration of the full potential of terpenoids as antiparasitic agents.
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