Nanotechnology-based Approaches for the Treatment of Toxocariasis: A Prospective Review

Abstract

Toxocariasis, caused by Toxocara parasites, is a prevalent parasitic disease affecting millions of people worldwide. Conventional anthelmintic drugs for toxocariasis face challenges such as limited efficacy and potential adverse effects, necessitating exploring alternative therapeutic strategies. Nanotechnology has emerged as a promising approach for the treatment of toxocariasis. This prospective review provides an overview of the potential of nanotechnology in toxocariasis treatment and highlights critical advancements in the field. The current review aimed to provide an overview of toxocariasis and the current challenges in its treatment, such as limited efficacy and potential adverse effects. It emphasized the need for novel therapeutic approaches to overcome these limitations. The subsequent section focused on nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems, discussing the nanoparticles used in toxocariasis treatment, their advantages, and strategies for enhancing drug delivery efficiency. Nanotechnology in targeted therapy is a great strategy to treat toxocariasis. It explored targeting Toxocara parasites using nanoparticles, surface modifications for enhanced targeting, and controlled release and sustained drug delivery techniques. Nanodiagnostics and imaging techniques in diagnosing and monitoring provide promising futures for controlling toxocariasis. It explored the use of nanosensors for the sensitive detection of Toxocara parasites and various imaging modalities for parasite visualization. These advancements enabled timely intervention and personalized treatment strategies. Furthermore, the application of nanotechnology in vaccine development is fruitful for preventing toxocariasis. It highlights the use of nano vaccines for enhanced immune responses, controlled antigen delivery, and targeted immune cell activation. In conclusion, nanotechnology holds immense potential in the treatment of toxocariasis. Its unique features, such as targeted drug delivery, enhanced diagnostics, and improved vaccine efficacy, offer promising avenues for more effective and personalized approaches. Addressing evaluation, regulatory approval, cost-effectiveness, and scalability challenges is crucial for successful translation into clinical practice. The advancements in nanotechnology can potentially revolutionize toxocariasis treatment and improve patient outcomes.