# The 50th Anniversary Conference − Caxambu 2024

## TL;DR

A conference in Brazil reviewed 50 years of Chagas disease research, focusing on parasite biology, treatment challenges, and public health strategies.

## Contribution

The conference highlighted recent advances in understanding host-parasite interactions and the need for new therapies and public health initiatives.

## Key findings

- Genomic compartmentalisation and metabolic flexibility are key to the parasite's survival and pathogenesis.
- Inflammatory and vascular remodelling processes in cardiac tissue were identified as critical for disease progression.
- Ongoing clinical trials and biomarker discovery are seen as pivotal for improving diagnosis and treatment of Chagas disease.

## Abstract

Chagas disease (CD), caused by Trypanosoma (Schizotrypanum) cruzi, remains a major global health concern, particularly in Latin America, where millions are at risk. To mark five decades of Chagas research, the Brazilian Society of Protozoology (SBPz) hosted a four-day conference held in Caxambu, Minas Gerais, Brazil, from November 3 to 7, 2024. The meeting brought together world-renowned experts from diverse disciplines whose work has significantly advanced the boundaries of CD studies. Key discussions focused on the parasite’s genetic and metabolic adaptability, with special emphasis on genomic compartmentalisation, RNA processing, and metabolic flexibility essential for survival and pathogenesis. New insights into host-parasite interactions highlighted inflammatory and vascular remodelling processes that drive parasite dissemination and disease progression, especially in cardiac tissue. In the area of drug development, researchers noted treatment limitations, the urgency for novel therapeutic candidates, and ongoing clinical trials assessing alternative regimens of benznidazole (BZN) and nifurtimox (NFX). Progress in biomarker discovery and vaccine development was also discussed as pivotal to improving disease diagnosis, prognosis, and prevention. Beyond laboratory research, the meeting highlighted the importance of science communication and public health engagement. Outreach initiatives and educational exhibitions were showcased as tools to raise awareness and enhance access to disease diagnosis and treatment. Altogether the integration of multidisciplinary approaches from molecular biology to public policy underscores the enduring commitment to combating CD through research, collaboration, and innovation.