Which class of anthelmintic agents is commonly used to treat nematode infections?

Benzimidazoles are a widely used class of anthelmintic agents that specifically target nematode infections, among others. This class works by inhibiting the polymerization of tubulin, a protein that is crucial for cellular processes such as cell division and the formation of microtubules. When tubulin polymerization is disrupted, it leads to an accumulation of unpolymerized tubulin, which can paralyze and eventually kill the parasite.

Benzimidazoles are effective against a variety of nematodes, including those that cause diseases in both humans and animals. Their broad-spectrum efficacy, along with their relative safety profile, makes them a first-line treatment for many nematode infections. Other classes, such as macrolides and phenylhydrazines, do not primarily target nematodes and are used for different types of infections or have different mechanisms of action. Pharmacological agents is too broad of a term to refer specifically to anthelmintic drugs that target nematodes.