The Schistosoma japonicum genome reveals features of host–parasite interplay

Schistosoma japonicum is a parasitic flatworm that causes human schistosomiasis, which is a significant cause of morbidity in China and the Philippines. Here we present a draft genomic sequence for the worm. The genome provides a global insight into the molecular architecture and host interaction of this complex metazoan pathogen, revealing that it can exploit host nutrients, neuroendocrine hormones and signalling pathways for growth, development and maturation. Having a complex nervous system and a well-developed sensory system, S. japonicum can accept stimulation of the corresponding ligands as a physiological response to different environments, such as fresh water or the tissues of its intermediate and mammalian hosts. Numerous proteases, including cercarial elastase, are implicated in mammalian skin penetration and haemoglobin degradation. The genomic information will serve as a valuable platform to facilitate development of new interventions for schistosomiasis control. Two international consortia this week report the whole genome sequences of the blood flukes Schistosoma mansoni and Schistosoma japonicum, two of the three major pathogens that cause schistosomiasis, also called bilharzia. Schistosomiasis is a 'neglected' tropical disease affecting more than 200 million people in 76 countries. Analyses of the new genome sequences provide insights into the molecular architecture and host interactions of these pathogens, as well as avenues for future development of targeted interventions for this disease. These are the first two flatworm genomes to be sequenced, so they offer new angles on the early events in animal evolution, in particular the determination of body pattern and the development of tissues into organs. Schistosoma mansoni and Schistosoma japonicum are the pathogenic agents that cause the tropical disease schistosomiasis. Here, and in an accompanying paper, the genomes of these two flatworms are sequenced and analysed. The results provide insights into the molecular architecture and host interactions of the flatworms, as well as avenues for future development of targeted interventions for schistosomiasis.