Filamentation temperature-sensitive protein Z (FtsZ) of Wolbachia, endosymbiont of Wuchereria bancrofti: A potential target for anti-filarial chemotherapy

► We characterized the FtsZ gene of Wolbachia of W. bancrofti. ► We assessed its polymorphism in parasites from different endemic regions of India. ► The gene shared functional motifs with β-tubulin of eukaryotes. ► Hence, albendazole may affect dual targets, Wolbachia FtsZ and parasite β-tubulin. ► Tests with mosquito Wolbachia confirmed the sensitivity of FtsZ to albendazole. ► In view of these FtsZ is a good target for antifilarial drug development.