Real-time imaging on a microwell device allows first insights into the embryonic development of the ubiquitous and notorious scabies parasite

Scabies is a common and highly contagious skin disease, caused by obligate parasitic burrowing mites (Sarcoptes scabiei). Current drugs have a short skin half-life and are ineffective against the egg stages of the parasite. Novel scabicides are needed that target eggs as well as motile mites, therefore understanding the egg structure and embryogenesis is crucial in developing ovicidal drugs. However, the embryogenesis of mites and specifically of S. scabiei is not well understood. To address this, we utilized a unique porcine scabies model, representing a nearly unlimited source of parasites that allowed us perform a descriptive embryonic development study. We designed and custom-fabricated a medium-throughput microwell device to confine individual S. scabiei eggs for automated microscopic observation over time. Using time-lapse microscopy, we recorded the development of 40 individual eggs, generating the first comprehensive timeline of S. scabiei embryogenesis and revealing distinct morphological stages and developmental dynamics.