Molecular innovation to explore genome function and host-parasite interactions in Schistosoma mansoni
Main PI: Changchun Chen, Department of Molecular Biology, Umeå University
Co-PI: Ryo Morimoto, Department of Molecular Biology, MIMS, Umeå University
Abstract
Schistosomiasis, caused by Schistosoma mansoni, is a major neglected tropical disease affecting over 200 million people and contributing to chronic illness and poverty. Progress in understanding S. mansoni biology and developing new treatments has been limited by technical challenges, including a lack of molecular tools, inefficient genetic manipulation, poorly developed in vitro systems, and incomplete knowledge of the parasite’s adaptation to environmental change. These obstacles have restricted functional studies and delayed the discovery of therapeutic targets. This project aims to overcome these limitations through methodological innovation, aiming to establish efficient genome manipulations, generate transcriptomic and epigenomic maps across life stages, uncover mitochondrial adaptations under diverse environmental conditions, and develop novel co-culture systems. We anticipate that these efforts will provide a platform to study gene function, metabolic adaptation, and host–parasite interactions, as well as enable targeted drug discovery and advance S. mansoni research and the broader field of parasitology.
Objectives
Establish efficient and inheritable genome editing strategies in S. mansoni Define gene regulatory and mitochondrial adaptation programs across life stages and environmental conditions Explore molecular mechanisms underlying S. mansoni interactions with its vector and mammalian host The project employs techniques such as genome editing, transcriptomic and epigenomic profiling, proteomics, and structural biology. Parasite responses will be analyzed across developmental stages and environmental conditions to understand mechanisms of metabolic adaptation and host–vector interactions.
About the PIs and their synergies
Changchun Chen’s lab brings strong expertise in CRISPR-based genome editing, hypoxia biology, and host–microbe interactions using C. elegans. Ryo Morimoto’s lab complements this with a multidisciplinary focus on adaptive immunity, genome stability, and host–parasite coevolution, along with experience in maintaining Biomphalaria glabrata. Together, the labs will develop inheritable genome editing tools in S. mansoni and its vector, enabling gene function studies across life stages and environmental conditions. This collaboration combines methodological innovation with deep biological insight, offering a powerful platform to uncover mechanisms of parasite adaptation and disease transmission.
