schistosomes encode a panel of growth factors and cytokines including EGF-like peptides and fibroblast growth factor (FGF)-like peptides, as well as receptors for thyroid and steroid hormones [18], [19], [20], implying that schistosomes can accept host hormone signals for cell proliferation, development, mating, and reproduction, in addition to responding to endogenous parasite endocrine hormones