The department carries out basic studies on virulence mechanisms of parasites, unique metabolic and cellular mechanisms to develop new drugs and vaccines. We also conduct a wide range of applied researches to establish epidemiological, molecular epidemiological, diagnostic, and preventive measures against infections caused by protozoan and helminthic parasites. We also receive clinical samples for diagnosis and consultations on diagnosis, prevention, and treatment. We are engaged in research collaborations with various institutes and universities worldwide.

LABORATORY OF PROTOZOA

The division studies on protozoan pathogens causing water- and food-borne intestinal infections, including Entamoeba histolytica, Giardia lamblia, and Cryptosporidia. The laboratory also works on other protozoan infections by free-living Acanthamoeba and Negleria, and parasitic Trypanosoma, Leishmania, Plasmodium, and intracellular parasite, Toxoplasma.

LABORATORY OF PLATHELMINTHES AND NEMATODES

The division conducts researches to develop molecular and serological diagnostic methods and carries out epidemiological studies on food-borne and zoonotic helminthiases including anisakiasis, paragonimiasis, metagonimiasis, diphyllobothiriasis, taeniasis/cysticercosis, echinococcosis, baylisascariasis and toxocariasis. We also receive clinical specimens for diagnosis and classification from hospitals and institutions.

LABORATORY OF IMPORTED PARASITIC DISEASES

The division works on identification and characterization of unique molecular, cellular, biochemical, and immunological events caused by Plasmodium, Trypanosoma and Entamoeba for future new drugs and vaccines development. We also receive consultations on diagnosis/treatment of these infections from hospitals, universities and quarantine centers. We are engaged in research collaborations with various research groups in both domestic and worldwide.