title: Leishmania: origin, evolution and future since the Precambrian.
abstract: This brief review discusses the history of leishmaniasis, considering its origin from the Paleoartic, Neoartic or Neotropic. We reassess some of the theories of the likely origin of this protozoan since the beginning of life on Earth, passing through the Mesozoic and continuing to the appearance of humans. The relationship between this parasite or its ancestors, possible vectors and hosts with regard to ecological modifications is discussed. Recent molecular techniques have helped to elucidate some of the evolutionary questions regarding Leishmania, but have also brought doubts about the origin and evolution of this human parasite. PCR has been used for studies in the new discipline of paleoparasitology, helping to elucidate some of the remaining evolutionary questions. Understanding of this global condition is fundamental in determining the best approach to use against the parasite, specifically for the development of an efficient vaccine.
authors.affiliation: Department of Infectious Diseases, University of São Paulo, Medical School, São Paulo, Brazil.
authors.forename: Felipe Francisco
authors.initials: FF
authors.lastname: Tuon
authors.forename: Vicente Amato
authors.initials: VA
authors.lastname: Neto
authors.forename: Valdir Sabbaga
authors.initials: VS
authors.lastname: Amato
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D005075:Biological Evolution; D005580:Fossils; D049690:History, Ancient; D006801:Humans; D007303:Insect Vectors / Q000469:parasitology; D007891:Leishmania; D007896:Leishmaniasis / Q000266:history / Q000469:parasitology* / Q000635:transmission; D010164:Paleopathology; D016133:Polymerase Chain Reaction; D011157:Population Dynamics