Jpn. J. Infect. Dis., 53 (6), 229-237, 2000

To see an article, click this [PDF] link.

Review

Current Problems of Amebiasis in Japan and Recent Advances in Amebiasis Research

Tomoyoshi Nozaki*

Department of Parasitology, National Institute of Infectious Diseases,
Toyama 1-23-1, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8640, Japan

(Received November 22, 2000. Accepted January 24, 2001)

CONTENTS:
1. Introduction
2. Epidemiology of amebiasis in Japan
3. Current problems of amebiasis
  (1) Diagnosis
  (2) Treatment
  (3) Vaccine
4. Recent developments in basic research on amebiasis
  (1) Virulence factors
  (2) Peculiar organellar structure
  (3) Prokaryote-like energy metabolisms
5. Remaining problems in amebiasis research

SUMMARY: Amebiasis is epidemic in two major populations in Japan: male homosexuals and institutionalized people. Currently available diagnostic, chemotherapeutic, and prophylactic measures and their problems are discussed. Recent advances in basic research on amebiasis are also described with new findings of unique metabolisms and intracellular structures and organization. Discoveries and analyses of the unique features presented by this parasitic protist help in our elucidation of the pathogenic mechanisms of the parasite and may eventually lead to the development of new drugs and vaccines against amebiasis.


* Corresponding author: Tel: +81-3-5285-1111 ext. 2733, Fax: +81-3-5285-1173, E-mail: nozaki@nih.go.jp

Go to JJID Homepage                             Go to 53(6)