The evolutionary trick of parasitic worm that sneakily burrows into the skin of its victims could provide new alternatives to opioid -based pain treatments.

Opioids are currently used to treat moderate to severe pain, as well coughing and diarrhea. Although they can provide effective relief, long-term use can also lead to dependence, with negative physical and mental health consequences.

Researchers discovered that the worm— Schistosoma mansoni— suppresses neurons in the skin to evade detection in a mechanism likely developed to enhance its own survival.

The molecules responsible for this suppression of sensation could help in the development of new painkillers, according to the team at the Tulane School of Medicine.

Schistosomiasis is a parasitic infection caused by helminths, a t

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