title: Recent Advances in Elucidating Nematode Moulting - Prospects of Using Oesophagostomum dentatum as a Model.
abstract: There are major gaps in our knowledge of many molecular biological processes that take place during the development of parasitic nematodes, in spite of the fact that understanding such processes could lead to new ways of treating and controlling parasitic diseases via the disruption of one or more biological pathways in the parasites. Progress in genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics and bioinformatics now provides unique opportunities to investigate the molecular basis of key developmental processes in parasitic nematodes. The porcine nodule worm, Oesophagostomum dentatum, represents a large order (Strongylida) of socioeconomically important nematodes, and provides a useful platform for exploring molecular developmental processes, particularly given that this nematode can be grown and maintained in culture in vitro for periods longer than most other nematodes of this order. In this article, we focus on the moulting process (ecdysis) in nematodes; review recent advances in our understanding of molecular aspects of moulting in O. dentatum achieved by using integrated proteomic-bioinformatic tools and discuss key implications and future prospects for research in this area, also with respect to developing new anti-nematode interventions and biotechnological outcomes.
authors.affiliation: Institute of Parasitology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
authors.forename: Martina
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Ondrovics
authors.affiliation: Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.
authors.forename: Robin B
authors.initials: RB
authors.lastname: Gasser
authors.affiliation: Institute of Parasitology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
authors.forename: Anja
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Joachim
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D023421:Models, Animal; D018978:Molting / Q000502:physiology*; D009815:Oesophagostomum / Q000502:physiology*
keywords: Exsheathment; Moulting; Oesophagostomum dentatum; Parasitic nematodes; Proteomics