Innovations in Antiparasitic Drug Discovery and Host–Pathogen Interfaces

Parasitic diseases pose an ongoing scientific and clinical challenge, especially when it comes to neglected pathogens such as Trypanosoma cruzi, Leishmania spp., and Toxoplasma gondii. Despite advances in fields like medicinal chemistry, bioinorganic chemistry, and pharmacology, the effective treatment of these parasitic diseases remains elusive. Modern approaches have allowed for the rational design of antiparasitic compounds through molecular targeting of redox enzymes, proteases, and parasite-specific metabolic pathways. Furthermore, pioneering biological models, including 3D multicellular spheroids and organ-on-a-chip devices, are revolutionizing our understanding of host-parasite interactions and providing means to evaluate potential therapeutics in settings that more accurately reflect physiological conditions.This Research Topic aims to provide a multidisciplinary platform that underscores the synergetic potential of chemical innovation and advanced biological modeling in the fight against parasitic diseases. By gathering insights at the intersection of chemical synthesis, target-guided drug design, mechanistic exploration, and cutting-edge biological models, this Research Topic seeks to advance our understanding and foster new solutions in parasitic disease treatment. Specific goals include exploring new antiparasitic compounds, investigating target-based drug design, and integrating computational and biological analyses to develop innovative drug delivery and evaluation methods.To gather further insights in drug discovery and evaluation for parasitic diseases, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:- Medicinal chemistry and the discovery of novel antiparasitic compounds, including organic, organometallic, hybrid, and natural product derivatives.- Target-based drug design and mechanism of action investigations focused on enzymes, metabolic pathways, and redox balance.- Development and application of innovative in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo models for studying parasitic infections, such as 3D spheroids, organ-on-a-chip systems, and tissue explants.- Exosome-based and nanotechnology-driven strategies for improved antiparasitic drug delivery.- Integrative approaches combining computational modeling, electrochemistry, and biological assays to enhance drug discovery and evaluation.We welcome original research, reviews, mini-reviews, and perspectives on the aforementioned subtopics. Topic editors: Claudio Olea Azar, Mauricio Moncada-Basualto Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/75674/innovations-in-antiparasitic-drug-discovery-and-host-pathogen-interfaces