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(Reference retrieved automatically from Web of Science through information on FAPESP grant and its corresponding number as mentioned in the publication by the authors.)

The preclinical discovery and development of oral miltefosine for the treatment of visceral leishmaniasis: a case history

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Author(s):
Reimao, Juliana Q. [1] ; Pedro, Debora P. Pita [1] ; Coelho, Adriano C. [2]
Total Authors: 3
Affiliation:
[1] Fac Med Jundiai, Dept Morfol & Patol Basica, Rua Francisco Telles 250, BR-13202550 Jundiai, SP - Brazil
[2] Univ Estadual Campinas, Dept Biol Anim, Inst Biol, Campinas - Brazil
Total Affiliations: 2
Document type: Review article
Source: EXPERT OPINION ON DRUG DISCOVERY; v. 15, n. 6 MAR 2020.
Web of Science Citations: 0
Abstract

Introduction: Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a vector-borne disease caused by Leishmania donovani or Leishmania infantum. Closely related to poverty, VL is fatal and represents one of the main burdens on public health in developing countries. Treatment of VL relies exclusively on chemotherapy, a strategy still experiencing numerous limitations. Miltefosine (MF) has been used in the chemotherapy of VL in some endemic areas, and has been expanded to other regions, being considered crucial in eradication programs. Areas covered: This article reviews the most relevant preclinical and clinical aspects of MF, its mechanism of action and resistance to Leishmania parasites, as well as its limitations. The authors also give their perspectives on the treatment of VL. Expert opinion: The discovery of MF represented an enormous advance in the chemotherapy of VL, since it was the first oral drug for this neglected disease. Beyond selection of resistant parasites due to drug pressure, several other factors can lead to treatment failure such as, for example, factors intrinsic to the host, parasite and the drug itself. Although its efficacy as a monotherapy has reduced over recent years, MF is still an important alternative in VL chemotherapy, especially when used in combination with other drugs. (AU)

FAPESP's process: 18/18954-4 - Drug repurposing: evaluation of activity, selectivity and mechanism of action of new drug candidates against Toxoplasma gondii
Grantee:Juliana Quero Reimão Dalla Zanna
Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Young Investigators Grants
FAPESP's process: 16/21171-6 - Paromomycin for the treatment of Tegumentary Leishmaniasis: investigation in vitro, in vivo and in the identification of molecular markers associated with susceptibility and resistance
Grantee:Adriano Cappellazzo Coelho
Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Young Investigators Grants