| abstract |
The following discloses a novel model for parasitic worm infection, which is useful for screening for and evaluating the efficacy of antiparasitic agents. In particular, the disclosure provides an immunocompromised mouse model that, for the first time, supports advanced development of Dirofilaria immitis (Di) parasites outside of their definitive hosts. As described herein, early-stage larval forms of Di, the causative agent of Canine Heartworm disease, not only persist in this model, but they develop into mature worms. |