Treatments and the Perspectives of Developing a Vaccine for Chagas Disease

Authors

Priscila Silva Grijó Farani
Kathryn Marie Jones
Cristina Poveda

Publication Date

8-1-2024

Journal

Vaccines

DOI

10.3390/vaccines12080870

PMID

39203996

PMCID

: PMC11359273

PubMedCentral® Posted Date

8-1-2024

PubMedCentral® Full Text Version

Post-print

Published Open-Access

yes

Keywords

Chagas, vaccine, new treatments

Abstract

Chagas disease (CD) treatment and vaccine development are critical due to the significant health burden caused by the disease, especially in Latin America. Current treatments include benznidazole and nifurtimox, which are most effective in the acute phase of the disease but less so in the chronic phase, often with significant side effects. Here, using the available literature, we summarize the progress in vaccine development and new treatments that promise to reduce CD incidence and improve the quality of life for those at risk, particularly in endemic regions. New treatment options, such as posaconazole and fexinidazole, are being explored to improve efficacy and reduce adverse effects. Vaccine development for CD remains a high priority. The complex life stages and genetic diversity of Trypanosoma cruzi present challenges, but several promising vaccine candidates are under investigation. These efforts focus on stimulating a protective immune response through various innovative approaches.