Prospects for liver fluke vaccines

Fasciola spp., Opisthorchis spp. and Clonorchis sinensis are common liver flukes that can cause a variety of diseases, mainly cholangiocarcinoma induced by clonorchiasis and liver damage and associated pathology induced by fascioliasis. Because these trematodes are parasites of humans and domestic animals, they have greatly affected the economy of agricultural industries and public health worldwide. Due to the emergence of drug resistance and the living habits of flukes, among other reasons, a possibility of reinfection remains even when antiparasitic drugs are used. Therefore, developing a safe, efficient and cost-effective vaccine against trematodes is an important goal. Here, we briefly describe the progress in the development of vaccines against liver flukes. Related innovations may provide effective protection against these helminths and the diseases that they cause. •Liver flukes are still prevalent in many countries. Clonorchiasis is one of the most easily overlooked tropical diseases.•Currently available therapeutic interventions face challenges, such as Triclabendazole resistance is common in livestock.•Vaccines are still an important means of achieving effective control effects.•The development status and application prospect of liver fluke vaccines are discussed.