This Research Topic will cover research presented at the 2025 Molecular Helminthology conference that will be held in person this year at Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO from September 22-25, 2025. In addition, we will welcome all other submissions that fall within the scope of the collection.

The purpose of the Research Topic is to acquire submissions that present timely advances in molecular helminthology research, including reports from the fundamental biology of helminths to translational research and practical application.

We welcome submissions around the five themes that the conference includes this year:

a) Immunoparasitology and Diagnostics;
b) Drugs and Resistance;
c) Developmental Biology;
d) Model Organisms;
e) New Technologies and Methods; and
f) Host-parasite Interactions.

Control and treatment of many helminth infections in both human and animal populations remain suboptimal, and sustained research is essential to drive new therapeutic and diagnostic advances. Although significant strides have been made toward the control and even elimination of certain human helminth diseases, reliance on drugs with imperfect efficacy, combined with the looming threat of resistance, underscores the urgent need for innovation. Advancing our understanding of helminth biology, particularly the complex host–parasite interactions that determine infection outcomes, will be critical. Equally important is uncovering the immunological basis of these interactions, which not only shapes pathogenesis and transmission but also offers opportunities for novel drug, vaccine, and immunomodulatory strategies. Continued momentum is vital, especially given uncertain funding and shifting global attention to neglected tropical diseases.

We welcome submissions around the five themes that the conference includes this year:

a) Immunoparasitology and Diagnostics;
b) Drugs and Resistance;
c) Developmental Biology;
d) Model Organisms;
e) New Technologies and Methods; and
f) Host-parasite Interactions.

Are you interested in contributing a manuscript to this Research Topic?

Molecular Helminthology: From fundamental biology to practical applications (Volume 2)