Anti- Drug Discovery: Current Status and Gut Feelings.

parasites are ubiquitous protozoans of global importance that impact a wide range of animals including humans. They are the most common enteric pathogen of cats and dogs in developed countries and infect ∼1 billion people worldwide. While infections can be asymptomatic, they often result in severe and chronic diseases. There is also mounting evidence that they are linked to postinfection disorders. Despite growing evidence of the widespread morbidity associated with infections, current treatment options are limited to compound classes with broad antimicrobial activity. Frontline anti- drugs are also associated with increasing drug resistance and treatment failures. To improve the health and well-being of millions, new selective anti- drugs are needed alongside improved health education initiatives. Here we discuss current treatment options together with recent advances and gaps in drug discovery. We also propose criteria to guide the discovery of new anti- compounds.