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Popruk S, Tummatorn J, Sreesai S, Ampawong S, Thiangtrongjit T, Tipthara P, Tarning J, Thongsornkleeb C, Ruchirawat S, Reamtong O. Inhibition of Giardia duodenalis by isocryptolepine -triazole adducts and derivatives. Int J Parasitol Drugs Drug Resist 2024; 26:100561. [PMID: 39151240 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2024.100561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2024] [Revised: 08/09/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024]
Abstract
Giardia duodenalis, a widespread parasitic flagellate protozoan causing giardiasis, affects millions annually, particularly impacting children and travellers. With no effective vaccine available, treatment primarily relies on the oral administration of drugs targeting trophozoites in the small intestine. However, existing medications pose challenges due to side effects and drug resistance, necessitating the exploration of novel therapeutic options. Isocryptolepine, derived from Cryptolepis sanguinolenta, has demonstrated promising antimicrobial and anticancer properties. This study evaluated eighteen isocryptolepine-triazole adducts for their antigiardial activities and cytotoxicity, with ISO2 demonstrating potent antigiardial activity and minimal cytotoxicity on human intestinal cells. Metabolomics analysis revealed significant alterations in G. duodenalis metabolism upon ISO2 treatment, particularly affecting phospholipid metabolism. Notably, the upregulation of phytosphingosine and triglycerides, and downregulation of certain fatty acids, suggest a profound impact on membrane composition and integrity, potentially contributing to the parasite's demise. Pathway analysis highlighted glycerophospholipid metabolism, cytochrome b5 family heme/steroid binding domain, and P-type ATPase mechanisms as critical pathways affected by ISO2 treatment, underscoring its importance as a potential target for antigiardial therapy. These findings shed light on the mode of action of ISO2 against G. duodenalis and provide valuable insights for further drug development. Moreover, the study also offers a promising avenue for the exploration of isocryptolepine derivatives as novel therapeutic agents for giardiasis, addressing the urgent need for more effective and safer treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Supaluk Popruk
- Department of Protozoology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Ratchawithi Road, Ratchathewi, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand
| | - Jumreang Tummatorn
- Program on Chemical Sciences, Chulabhorn Graduate Institute, Center of Excellence on Environmental Health and Toxicology (EHT), OPS, MHESI, 54 Kamphaeng Phet 6, Laksi, Bangkok, 10210, Thailand; Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Chulabhorn Research Institute, 54 Kamphaeng Phet 6, Laksi, Bangkok, 10210, Thailand
| | - Suthasinee Sreesai
- Central Equipment Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Sumate Ampawong
- Department of Tropical Pathology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand
| | - Tipparat Thiangtrongjit
- Department of Molecular Tropical Medicine and Genetics, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Phornpimon Tipthara
- Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Joel Tarning
- Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand; Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Charnsak Thongsornkleeb
- Program on Chemical Sciences, Chulabhorn Graduate Institute, Center of Excellence on Environmental Health and Toxicology (EHT), OPS, MHESI, 54 Kamphaeng Phet 6, Laksi, Bangkok, 10210, Thailand; Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Chulabhorn Research Institute, 54 Kamphaeng Phet 6, Laksi, Bangkok, 10210, Thailand
| | - Somsak Ruchirawat
- Program on Chemical Sciences, Chulabhorn Graduate Institute, Center of Excellence on Environmental Health and Toxicology (EHT), OPS, MHESI, 54 Kamphaeng Phet 6, Laksi, Bangkok, 10210, Thailand; Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Chulabhorn Research Institute, 54 Kamphaeng Phet 6, Laksi, Bangkok, 10210, Thailand
| | - Onrapak Reamtong
- Department of Molecular Tropical Medicine and Genetics, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
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Elmahy RA, Moustafa AY, Radwan NA. Toxocara canis: Prospective activity of Quercetin and venom of Cassiopea andromeda (Cnidaria: Cassiopeidae) against third-stage larvae in vitro. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY. PART A, ECOLOGICAL AND INTEGRATIVE PHYSIOLOGY 2024. [PMID: 38973302 DOI: 10.1002/jez.2852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2024] [Revised: 06/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
Toxocariasis is a zoonotic parasitic infection with worldwide distribution and high impact on human health. It has a limited clinical resolution with the available drugs, making it challenging to treat. Quercetin, which possesses biological and pharmacological qualities including antiparasitic, antioxidant, and anticancer activities, is a possible substitute for the current medications. Marine invertebrates can produce a vast array of different molecules, many of which are biologically active substances with distinct characteristics. In this study, we assessed the in vitro nematocidal effect of both quercetin and venom of Cassiopea andromeda (jellyfish) against third larvae of Toxocara canis. In microplates with Roswell Park Memorial Institute-1640 medium, larvae were incubated with ethanolic extract of quercetin (0.01, 0.02, 0.05, 0.08, 0.1, 0.25, and 0.5 mM/mL) and water extract of C. andromeda venom (15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, and 60 µg/mL) to evaluate their larvicidal effect. A scanning electron microscopy has investigated the possible effect of lethal concentration (LC90) of both extracts on the body wall of cultivated larvae, in comparison with those cultivated in albendazole. Our study revealed the effects of both quercetin and C. andromeda venom exposure on the mortality rate and the ultrastructure of T. canis third larva in comparison with control and albendazole-treated groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rasha A Elmahy
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Alaa Y Moustafa
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt
| | - Nahla A Radwan
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
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Ewais O, Abdel-Tawab H, El-Fayoumi H, Aboelhadid SM, Al-Quraishy S, Falkowski P, Abdel-Baki AAS. Administration of Ethanolic Extract of Spinacia oleracea Rich in Omega-3 Improves Oxidative Stress and Goblet Cells in Broiler Chickens Infected with Eimeria tenella. Molecules 2023; 28:6621. [PMID: 37764396 PMCID: PMC10534835 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28186621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
This study investigated the anticoccidial activity of spinach (Spinacia oleracea) whole-plant extract against Eimeria tenella, both in vitro and in vivo. For this purpose, one hundred 8-day-old broiler chicks of both sexes were divided into four groups (n = 25 in each group). Chicks in the first group served as the negative control (non-treated-non-infected). Chicks in the second group were challenged at 18 days old with 5 × 104E. tenella sporulated oocysts. The third group was challenged with 5 × 104 sporulated E. tenella oocysts at 18 days old after receiving spinach extract at a dose of 50 mg/kg at 8 days old. The fourth group received 0.2 mg/kg diclazuril (Coxiril® 0.2%) in their diet two days before being orally infected with 5 × 104 sporulated E. tenella oocysts and this continued till day 10 post-infection (PI). The growth performance, clinical symptoms, oocyst shedding, histological findings, and biochemical parameters were used to evaluate the efficacy on day 8 PI when the infection was at its peak. A gas chromatography examination revealed that omega-3 fatty acids were the main constituents of the spinach extract, followed by oleic acid, palmitic acid, and phytol, with amounts of 23.37%, 17.53%, 11.26%, and 7.97%, respectively. The in vitro investigation revealed that the spinach extract at concentrations of 10% and 5% inhibited the oocyst sporulation by 52.1% and 45.1%, respectively. The 5% concentration was selected for the in vivo trial based on the results of the in vitro study. The infected-untreated group showed high levels of OPG; lower body weight; a greater number of parasite stages; few goblet cells; decreased SOD, CAT, and GPX levels; and increased MDA and NO levels. The spinach-treated group, on the other hand, showed a significant decrease in oocyst output per gram of feces (OPG), increased body weight, decreased parasitic stages, and a nearly normal number of goblet cells. Additionally, it reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitric oxide (NO), while increasing superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPX). In conclusion, spinach produced significant antioxidant effects, increased body weight, reduced the number of oocysts and parasite stages in the caecum, and restored the number of goblet cells relative to those of an uninfected control. Furthermore, spinach extract inhibits the sporulation percentage of E. tenella oocysts. The ethanolic extract of S. oleracea (whole plant) contained high concentrations of fatty acids, palmitic acid, Phytol, betulin, and ursolic aldehyde, all of which are known to regulate the antioxidant pathway and modulate inflammatory processes and may be the main reason for its anticoccidial activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osama Ewais
- Department of Parasitology, Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef 62511, Egypt (H.A.-T.); (A.-A.S.A.-B.)
| | - Heba Abdel-Tawab
- Department of Parasitology, Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef 62511, Egypt (H.A.-T.); (A.-A.S.A.-B.)
| | - Huda El-Fayoumi
- Department of Parasitology, Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef 62511, Egypt (H.A.-T.); (A.-A.S.A.-B.)
| | - Shawky M Aboelhadid
- Parasitology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef 62511, Egypt
| | - Saleh Al-Quraishy
- Zoology Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh12211, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Piotr Falkowski
- Department of Epizootiology and Clinic for Birds and Exotic Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, pl. Grunwaldzki 45, 50-366 Wrocław, Poland;
| | - Abdel-Azeem S. Abdel-Baki
- Department of Parasitology, Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef 62511, Egypt (H.A.-T.); (A.-A.S.A.-B.)
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Tu H, Peng X, Yao X, Tang Q, Xia Z, Li J, Yang G, Yi S. Integrated Transcriptomic and Metabolomic Analyses Reveal Low-Temperature Tolerance Mechanism in Giant Freshwater Prawn Macrobrachium rosenbergii. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13101605. [PMID: 37238035 DOI: 10.3390/ani13101605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Water temperature, as an important environmental factor, affects the growth and metabolism of aquatic animals and even their survival. The giant freshwater prawn (GFP) Macrobrachium rosenbergii is a kind of warm-water species, and its survival temperature ranges from 18 °C to 34 °C. In this study, we performed transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses to clarify the potential molecular mechanism of responding to low-temperature stress in adult GFP. The treatments with low-temperature stress showed that the lowest lethal temperature of the GFP was 12.3 °C. KEGG enrichment analyses revealed that the differentially expressed genes and metabolites were both enriched in lipid and energy metabolism pathways. Some key genes, such as phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase and fatty acid synthase, as well as the content of the metabolites dodecanoic acid and alpha-linolenic acid, were altered under low-temperature stress. Importantly, the levels of unsaturated fatty acids were decreased in LS (low-temperature sensitive group) vs. Con (control group). In LT (low-temperature tolerant group) vs. Con, the genes related to fatty acid synthesis and degradation were upregulated to cope with low-temperature stress. It suggested that the genes and metabolites associated with lipid metabolism and energy metabolism play vital roles in responding to low-temperature stress. This study provided a molecular basis for the selection of a low-temperature tolerant strain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haihui Tu
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Aquatic Resources Conservation and Development, Key Laboratory of Aquatic Animal Genetic Breeding and Nutrition, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Huzhou University, Huzhou 313000, China
| | - Xin Peng
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Aquatic Resources Conservation and Development, Key Laboratory of Aquatic Animal Genetic Breeding and Nutrition, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Huzhou University, Huzhou 313000, China
| | - Xinyi Yao
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Aquatic Resources Conservation and Development, Key Laboratory of Aquatic Animal Genetic Breeding and Nutrition, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Huzhou University, Huzhou 313000, China
| | - Qiongying Tang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Aquatic Resources Conservation and Development, Key Laboratory of Aquatic Animal Genetic Breeding and Nutrition, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Huzhou University, Huzhou 313000, China
| | - Zhenglong Xia
- Jiangsu Shufeng Prawn Breeding Co., Ltd., Gaoyou 225654, China
| | - Jingfen Li
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Aquatic Resources Conservation and Development, Key Laboratory of Aquatic Animal Genetic Breeding and Nutrition, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Huzhou University, Huzhou 313000, China
| | - Guoliang Yang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Aquatic Resources Conservation and Development, Key Laboratory of Aquatic Animal Genetic Breeding and Nutrition, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Huzhou University, Huzhou 313000, China
- Jiangsu Shufeng Prawn Breeding Co., Ltd., Gaoyou 225654, China
| | - Shaokui Yi
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Aquatic Resources Conservation and Development, Key Laboratory of Aquatic Animal Genetic Breeding and Nutrition, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Huzhou University, Huzhou 313000, China
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El-Ashkar AM, Mahmoud S, Sabry H, Guirguis N, El Komi W, Ali E, Abu Shousha T, Abdelmksoud HF. Nitazoxanide, Ivermectin, and Artemether effects against cryptosporidiosis in diabetic mice: parasitological, histopathological, and chemical studies. J Parasit Dis 2022; 46:1070-1079. [PMID: 36092469 PMCID: PMC9451122 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-022-01527-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Human cryptosporidiosis is one of the most significant causes of water borne epidemics of diarrhea worldwide. It is extremely important in immunocompromised hosts and malnourished children as it could cause severe life-threatening diarrhea. Despite the global burden of the disease, there are only few available therapies against cryptosporidiosis. Diabetes mellitus is a common metabolic disorder that impair both the innate and adaptive immune responses of the patient. This study aimed to test the effect of Nitazoxanide, Ivermectin, and Artemether against cryptosporidiosis in diabetic mice. Sixty white albino mice were categorized into 6 groups; 10 mice each: GI: normal non-infected non-treated (healthy- control), GII-GVI (diabetic groups), GII: non-infected non treated (diabetic control), GIII: infected non treated (infected control), GIV: infected and treated with Nitazoxanide (NTZ), GV: infected and treated with Ivermectin (IVC), GVI: infected and treated with Artemether (ART). Parasitological, histopathological, and chemical examinations were done to evaluate the effect of NTZ, IVC, and ART against cryptosporidiosis in diabetic mice. Parasitological examination revealed maximum reduction of oocyst shedding in GVI, while histopathological examination showed the least pathologic changes in GV with mild vascular wall fibrosis and moderate lymphocytic infiltration of islets of Langerhans. Measurement of blood glucose level showed the best results with GIV. Nitazoxanide is effective against cryptosporidiosis in diabetic patients with minimal hyperglycemia, Artemether is especially effective in reducing the oocyst shedding in stool, whereas Ivermectin is associated with the least pathological changes in pancreatic islets of Langerhans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayman M. El-Ashkar
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Soheir Mahmoud
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Giza, Egypt
| | - Hoda Sabry
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Giza, Egypt
| | - Nevine Guirguis
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Giza, Egypt
| | - Wafaa El Komi
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Giza, Egypt
| | - Eman Ali
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Giza, Egypt
| | - Tarek Abu Shousha
- Department of Pathology, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Giza, Egypt
| | - Hagar F. Abdelmksoud
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Giza, Egypt
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Mohamed MG, Elmarhoumy SM, Saied EM, Zoghroban HS. Evaluation of the efficacy of gold nanoparticles on Giardia lamblia infection in experimental animals. Exp Parasitol 2022; 238:108277. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2022.108277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
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Pomegranate Peel Extract Is a Potential Alternative Therapeutic for Giardiasis. Antibiotics (Basel) 2021; 10:antibiotics10060705. [PMID: 34208266 PMCID: PMC8230894 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics10060705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 05/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Giardiasis is a major diarrheal disease affecting approximately 2.5 million children annually in developing countries. Several studies have reported the resistance of Giardia lamblia (G. lamblia) to multiple drugs. Therefore, identifying an effective drug for giardiasis is a necessity. This study examined the antiparasitic effect of Punica granatum (pomegranate) and evaluated its therapeutic efficacy in rats infected with G. lamblia. In vitro study showed high efficacy of pomegranate peel ethanolic extract in killing G. lamblia cysts as demonstrated by eosin vital staining. We showed that treating infected rats with pomegranate extract resulted in a marked reduction in the mean number of G. lamblia cysts and trophozoites in feces and intestine respectively. Interestingly, the number of G. lamblia trophozoites and cysts were significantly lower in the pomegranate extract-treated group compared to the metronidazole-positive control group. Moreover, pomegranate extract treatment significantly induced nitric oxide (NO) and reduced serum IL-6 and TNF-α, compared to infected untreated rats. Histological and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) examination of the jejunum and duodenum of pomegranate extract-treated animals confirmed the antiparasitic effect of the extract, and demonstrated the restoration of villi structure with reduction of villi atrophy, decreased infiltration of lymphocytes, and protection of intestinal cells from apoptotic cell death. In conclusion, our data show that the pomegranate peel extract is effective in controlling G. lamblia infections, which suggests that it could be a viable treatment option for giardiasis.
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A Complementary Herbal Product for Controlling Giardiasis. Antibiotics (Basel) 2021; 10:antibiotics10050477. [PMID: 33919165 PMCID: PMC8143091 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics10050477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 04/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Giardiasis is an intestinal protozoal disease caused by Giardia lamblia. The disease became a global health issue due to development of resistance to commonly used drugs. Since many plant-derived products have been used to treat many parasitic infestations, we aimed to assess the therapeutic utility of Artemisia annua (A. annua) for giardiasis. We showed that NO production was significantly reduced whereas serum levels of IL-6, IFN-γ, and TNF-α were elevated in infected hamsters compared to uninfected ones. Additionally, infection resulted in increased numbers of intraepithelial lymphocytes and reduced villi heights, goblet cell numbers, and muscularis externa thickness. We also showed that inducible NO synthase (iNOS) and caspase-3 were elevated in the intestine of infected animals. However, treatment with A. annua significantly reduced the intestinal trophozoite counts and IEL numbers, serum IL-6, IFN-γ, and TNF-α, while increasing NO and restoring villi heights, GC numbers, and ME thickness. Moreover, A. annua treatment resulted in lower levels of caspase-3, which indicates a protective effect from apoptotic cell death. Interestingly, A. annua therapeutic effects are comparable to metronidazole. In conclusion, our results show that A. annua extract is effective in alleviating infection-induced intestinal inflammation and pathological effects, which implies its potential therapeutic utility in controlling giardiasis.
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Costa TM, Lenzi J, da Silva Filho HH, Goulart JAG, Alberton MD, Tavares LBB, de Oliveira D. Identification and antigiardial activity of biocompounds produced in the Ganoderma lipsiense mycelium in submerged fermentation. Nat Prod Res 2020; 35:5530-5534. [PMID: 32666824 DOI: 10.1080/14786419.2020.1793146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Natural antiparasitic agents are used as a strategy for advances in the treatment of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), such as giardiasis. The present paper identified the compounds produced by Ganoderma lipsiense mycelium grown in submerged fermentation and investigated the antigiardial activity potential of extracts in vitro. G. lipsiense mycelium crude extract (CE) was obtained by the maceration process and after purification in column, thirty compounds were identified by gas chromatography - mass spectrometry (GC-MS) in hexane sub-fraction (HSF). To determine the antigiardial potential, different parts of the purified CE have been evaluated, where hexane (HEXf) and dichloromethane (DCMf) fractions showed in vitro reduction levels higher than 90% of the Giardia duodenalis trophozoites at 100 μg mL-1. This antigiardial activity was investigated aiming to explore the possibility of G. lipsiense mycelium extract as a novel antigiardial compound to the treatment of human giardiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tania Maria Costa
- Department of Chemical and Food Engineering, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Trindade, Florianópolis, Brazil
| | - Juliana Lenzi
- Graduate Program in Environmental Engineering, Regional University of Blumenau, Blumenau, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | - Débora de Oliveira
- Department of Chemical and Food Engineering, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Trindade, Florianópolis, Brazil
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Abdelmaksoud HF, El-Ashkar AM, Elgohary SA, El-Wakil ES. Potential therapeutic and prophylactic effects of Asafoetida in murine cryptosporidiosis. J Parasit Dis 2020; 44:646-653. [PMID: 32801519 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-020-01241-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium parvum is an important coccidian parasite that could infect the intestine, respiratory and biliary tracts of man and animals. This study aims to test the potential therapeutic and prophylactic effects of a natural herbal agent (Asafoetida) versus the nowadays drug of choice (Nitazoxanide). Fifty bred female, white Albino mice of CDI strain were divided into 5 groups; group I (GI): immunosuppressed, infected with C. parvum and treated with Asafoetida, group II (GII): immunosuppressed, prophylactically treated with Asafoetida for 7 days prior to infection, group III (GIII): immunosuppressed, infected and treated with Nitazoxanide, group IV (GIV): immunosuppressed and infected (Positive control), group V (GV): immunosuppressed and non infected (Negative control). Parasitological and histopatholgical examinations of the stool, ileocaecal and liver specimens were performed for the study groups. GI showed reduction of the mean oocyst count in stool with improvement of the pathological changes at the ileocaecal region with preservation of hepatic architecture. Results of GI were better than GII and GIV but not as good as GIII. GII showed the least improvement among the test groups. GIII showed the best response between the test groups. GIV show no statistical significant difference between the mean oocyst count in the mice stool at the time of infection and 7 days after infection. It was therefore concluded that Asafoetida is a promising natural therapeutic and prophylactic agent against cryptosporidiosis while, Nitazoxanide is the best chemotherapeutic agent against cryptosporidiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ayman M El-Ashkar
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt.,Department of Basic Medical Science, College of Medicine, University of Bisha, Bisha, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Sh A Elgohary
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Eman S El-Wakil
- Department of Parasitology, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Giza, Egypt
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M H S, A R S. Role of demodex infestation in blepharitis and coconut oil as a treatment option. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020. [DOI: 10.18231/j.ijceo.2020.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
To assess incidence of demodex species, correlate ocular symptomatology, evaluate efficacy of coconut oil as treatment method in all types of blepharitis. 30 patients with anterior & mixed blepharitis, meibomian gland dysfunction & non-specific irritation were enrolled for study. History taken & examined clinically. 2 lashes/lid were sampled & mounted on slides with normal saline & observed under light microscope. Number of mites counted. Patients positive for demodex were treated with coconut oil application over lid margins & reviewed after 3 weeks. Incidence of demodex was 40% & it increased with age. Demodex was commonly associated with meibomian gland dysfunction, non-specific irritation, madarosis, cloudy & toothpaste like meibum quality. Burning sensation and itching were common complaints. At 3rd week, all patients were symptom-free. Mite count dropped by 52.8% but were not eliminated. Demodex infestation is often overlooked but it is associated with about half of blepharitis cases. Hence further evaluation should be considered. Coconut oil is an easily available mode of treatment & helps reduce symptoms and mite counts.
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Costa TM, Lenzi J, Paganelli CJ, Filho HHDS, Alberton MD, Tavares LBB, Oliveira D. Liposoluble compounds from
Ganoderma lipsiense
grown on solid red rice medium with antiparasitic and antibacterial properties. Biotechnol Appl Biochem 2019; 67:180-185. [DOI: 10.1002/bab.1851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tania Maria Costa
- Department of Chemical and Food EngineeringFederal University of Santa Catarina Florianópolis Santa Catarina Brazil
| | - Juliana Lenzi
- Graduate Program in Environmental EngineeringRegional University of Blumenau Blumenau Santa Catarina Brazil
| | - Camila Jeriani Paganelli
- Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesRegional University of Blumenau Blumenau Santa Catarina Brazil
| | | | - Michele Debiasi Alberton
- Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesRegional University of Blumenau Blumenau Santa Catarina Brazil
| | | | - Débora Oliveira
- Department of Chemical and Food EngineeringFederal University of Santa Catarina Florianópolis Santa Catarina Brazil
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Effect of Bioactive Compounds Extracted from Green Algae Spirogyra sp. in Reducing the Protoscolices Viability In vitro Compared with Albendazole Drug. JOURNAL OF PURE AND APPLIED MICROBIOLOGY 2018. [DOI: 10.22207/jpam.12.3.23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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14
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite the fact that diseases caused by protozoan parasites represent serious challenges for public health, animal production and welfare, only a limited panel of drugs has been marketed for clinical applications. AREAS COVERED Herein, the authors investigate two strategies, namely whole organism screening and target-based drug design. The present pharmacopoeia has resulted from whole organism screening, and the mode of action and targets of selected drugs are discussed. However, the more recent extensive genome sequencing efforts and the development of dry and wet lab genomics and proteomics that allow high-throughput screening of interactions between micromolecules and recombinant proteins has resulted in target-based drug design as the predominant focus in anti-parasitic drug development. Selected examples of target-based drug design studies are presented, and calcium-dependent protein kinases, important drug targets in apicomplexan parasites, are discussed in more detail. EXPERT OPINION Despite the enormous efforts in target-based drug development, this approach has not yet generated market-ready antiprotozoal drugs. However, whole-organism screening approaches, comprising of both in vitro and in vivo investigations, should not be disregarded. The repurposing of already approved and marketed drugs could be a suitable strategy to avoid fastidious approval procedures, especially in the case of neglected or veterinary parasitoses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joachim Müller
- a Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty , University of Bern , Bern , Switzerland
| | - Andrew Hemphill
- a Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty , University of Bern , Bern , Switzerland
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15
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Rayan P, Matthews B, McDonnell PA, Cock IE. Terminalia ferdinandiana extracts as inhibitors of Giardia duodenalis proliferation: a new treatment for giardiasis. Parasitol Res 2015; 114:2611-20. [PMID: 25876047 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-015-4465-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2014] [Accepted: 04/02/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Giardisis is a debilitating disease caused by gastrointestinal parasites of the genus Giardia. High-antioxidant T. ferdinandiana fruit extracts were investigated for the ability to block Giardia duodenalis growth. Methanolic and aqueous extracts had the most potent growth inhibitory activity (IC50 values of approximately 700 and 140 μg/ml, respectively). Ethyl acetate and chloroform extracts also inhibited G. duodenalis growth, albeit with lower potency. The hexane extract was completely devoid of G. duodenalis growth inhibitory activity. All extracts were nontoxic in the Artemia fransiscana bioassay. Nontargeted HPLC-quadrupole time-of-flight (QTOF) mass spectroscopy (with screening against three compound databases) putatively identified 17 compounds in all of the inhibitory extracts but not in the inactive hexane extract. The low toxicity of the Terminalia ferdinandiana fruit extracts and their potent G. duodenalis growth inhibitory bioactivity indicate their potential as medicinal agents in the treatment and prevention of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Rayan
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, Nathan Campus, Griffith University, 170 Kessels Rd, Nathan, QLD, 4111, Australia
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16
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Müller J, Hemphill A. New approaches for the identification of drug targets in protozoan parasites. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2013; 301:359-401. [PMID: 23317822 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-407704-1.00007-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Antiparasitic chemotherapy is an important issue for drug development. Traditionally, novel compounds with antiprotozoan activities have been identified by screening of compound libraries in high-throughput systems. More recently developed approaches employ target-based drug design supported by genomics and proteomics of protozoan parasites. In this chapter, the drug targets in protozoan parasites are reviewed. The gene-expression machinery has been among the first targets for antiparasitic drugs and is still under investigation as a target for novel compounds. Other targets include cytoskeletal proteins, proteins involved in intracellular signaling, membranes, and enzymes participating in intermediary metabolism. In apicomplexan parasites, the apicoplast is a suitable target for established and novel drugs. Some drugs act on multiple subcellular targets. Drugs with nitro groups generate free radicals under anaerobic growth conditions, and drugs with peroxide groups generate radicals under aerobic growth conditions, both affecting multiple cellular pathways. Mefloquine and thiazolides are presented as examples for antiprotozoan compounds with multiple (side) effects. The classic approach of drug discovery employing high-throughput physiological screenings followed by identification of drug targets has yielded the mainstream of current antiprotozoal drugs. Target-based drug design supported by genomics and proteomics of protozoan parasites has not produced any antiparasitic drug so far. The reason for this is discussed and a synthesis of both methods is proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joachim Müller
- Institute of Parasitology, University of Berne, Berne, Switzerland.
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17
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Abstract
Giardia lamblia, a protozoan parasite, infects a wide variety of vertebrates, including humans. Studies indicate that this anaerobic protist possesses a limited ability to synthesize lipid molecules de novo and depends on supplies from its environment for growth and differentiation. It has been suggested that most lipids and fatty acids are taken up by endocytic and non-endocytic pathways and are used by Giardia for energy production and membrane/organelle biosynthesis. The purpose of this article is to provide an update on recent progress in the field of lipid research of this parasite and the validation of lipid metabolic pathways through recent genomic information. Based on current cellular, biochemical and genomic data, a comprehensive pathway has been proposed to facilitate our understanding of lipid and fatty acid metabolism/syntheses in this waterborne pathogen. We envision that the current review will be helpful in identifying targets from the pathways that could be used to design novel therapies to control giardiasis and related diseases.
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18
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Maher S, Leonard TW, Jacobsen J, Brayden DJ. Safety and efficacy of sodium caprate in promoting oral drug absorption: from in vitro to the clinic. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2009; 61:1427-49. [PMID: 19800376 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2009.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 162] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2009] [Revised: 09/21/2009] [Accepted: 09/24/2009] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
A major challenge in oral drug delivery is the development of novel dosage forms to promote absorption of poorly permeable drugs across the intestinal epithelium. To date, no absorption promoter has been approved in a formulation specifically designed for oral delivery of Class III molecules. Promoters that are designated safe for human consumption have been licensed for use in a recently approved buccal insulin spray delivery system and also for many years as part of an ampicillin rectal suppository. Unlike buccal and rectal delivery, oral formulations containing absorption promoters have the additional technical hurdle whereby the promoter and payload must be co-released in high concentrations at the small intestinal epithelium in order to generate significant but rapidly reversible increases in permeability. An advanced promoter in the clinic is the medium chain fatty acid (MCFA), sodium caprate (C(10)), a compound already approved as a food additive. We discuss how it has evolved to a matrix tablet format suitable for administration to humans under the headings of mechanism of action at the cellular and tissue level as well as in vitro and in vivo efficacy and safety studies. In specific clinical examples, we review how C(10)-based formulations are being tested for oral delivery of bisphosphonates using Gastro Intestinal Permeation Enhancement Technology, GIPET (Merrion Pharmaceuticals, Ireland) and in a related solid dose format for antisense oligonucleotides (ISIS Pharmaceuticals, USA).
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Affiliation(s)
- Sam Maher
- UCD School of Agriculture, Food Science and Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
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19
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Wilk JL, Maginnis GM, Coleman K, Lewis A, Ogden B. Evaluation of the use of coconut to treat chronic diarrhea in rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta). J Med Primatol 2009; 37:271-6. [PMID: 19017194 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0684.2008.00313.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic diarrhea can be challenging to manage in captive rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta) leading to ongoing diagnostics, medications, monitoring, and potential euthanasia. Coconut has been used as a dietary supplement for people with inflammatory bowel disease, with anecdotal reports of decreased diarrhea following the dietary addition. A dietary trial in rhesus macaques was initiated to evaluate the hypothesis that dietary coconut decreases symptoms of chronic diarrhea in rhesus macaques. METHODS Ten rhesus macaques with chronic diarrhea were selected for the trial. Five of the subjects were fed coconut macaroons and five of the subjects were fed a sham cookie. Stool consistency was monitored daily for both groups. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS Data of chi-squared analysis obtained from eight rhesus macaques with chronic diarrhea showed that the use of coconut macaroons as a dietary supplement did not have a statistically significant effect on their diarrhea.
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Affiliation(s)
- J L Wilk
- Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, 505 NW 185th Avenue, Beaverton, OR 97006, USA.
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20
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Yichoy M, Nakayasu ES, Shpak M, Aguilar C, Aley SB, Almeida IC, Das S. Lipidomic analysis reveals that phosphatidylglycerol and phosphatidylethanolamine are newly generated phospholipids in an early-divergent protozoan, Giardia lamblia. Mol Biochem Parasitol 2009; 165:67-78. [PMID: 19393163 DOI: 10.1016/j.molbiopara.2009.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2008] [Revised: 01/06/2009] [Accepted: 01/12/2009] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
The pathogenic protozoan Giardia lamblia is known to not synthesize membrane lipids de novo. Therefore, it is possible that lipids in the small intestine, where trophozoites colonize, play key roles in regulating the growth and differentiation of this important pathogen. The focus of the current study is to conduct a complete lipidomic analysis and to test the hypothesis that Giardia has some ability to generate new phospholipids (PLs). Using mass spectrometry, now we show that phosphatidylglycerols (PGs) are major PLs followed by phosphatidylcholines (PCs) and phosphatidylethanolamines (PEs) in non-encysting and encysting trophozoites, as well in cysts. The fatty acids attached to these PLs consist mostly of palmitate, palmitoleate, oleate, and linoleate. Results also indicate that PGs and PEs, unlike PCs, are not present in bovine bile and serum, the major sources of lipids of the culture medium, and that they could therefore be produced by fatty acid and headgroup remodeling reactions, circumventing the synthesis of entirely new PLs via de novo pathways. Genomic and transcriptional analyses show the presence of giardial phosphatidylglycerolphosphate synthase (gpgps) and phosphatidylserine decarboxylase (gpsd) genes, which are expressed throughout the life cycle. Bioinformatic and phylogenetic analyses further indicated that both genes are of prokaryotic origin and that they have undergone duplication in the course of evolution. Our studies suggest that the abundance of PG in Giardia is unique among eukaryotes and that its synthesis thus could serve as a potential target for developing new therapies against this waterborne parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayte Yichoy
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968-0519, USA
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21
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Dew N, Bramer T, Edsman K. Catanionic aggregates formed from drugs and lauric or capric acids enable prolonged release from gels. J Colloid Interface Sci 2008; 323:386-94. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2008.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2007] [Revised: 03/25/2008] [Accepted: 04/04/2008] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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22
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Ponce-Macotela M, González-Maciel A, Reynoso-Robles R, Martínez-Gordillo MN. Goblet cells: are they an unspecific barrier against Giardia intestinalis or a gate? Parasitol Res 2007; 102:509-13. [PMID: 18038237 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-007-0790-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2007] [Accepted: 10/30/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Giardiosis is one of the major intestinal parasitic diseases of human beings as well as wild and domesticated animals. Several protective mechanisms against infection have been described. However, specific information about relationship between giardiosis and the increased proliferation of goblet cells (GC) in patients infected with Giardia intestinalis (Syn. G. duodenalis, G. lamblia) is scarce. In this work, we compare and quantify the number of GC, and have inferred their metabolic state in the small intestine of dogs parasitized with Giardia intestinalis compared to dogs without parasites. Small intestine segments were processed using routine methods for histology and electron microscopy; areas and cells were screened with an Axiovision Ver. 4.0 system. Data were analyzed by ANOVA and comparison of averages. Parasitized dogs showed higher GC numbers than nonparasitized ones. Averages were: 20+/-0.81 GC/25 microm(2) with independent mucin granules and 11+/-1.53 GC/25 microm(2) that were expelling mucus, compared to 11+/-0.94 GC/25 microm(2) and 1+/-0.27 GC/25 microm(2), respectively, in nonparasitized dogs (Tukey, p<0.001). The increases in GC number seem to be an unspecific defensive mechanism against Giardia trophozoites. However, we found some evidence supporting that GC hyperplasia could be a prejudicial to epithelial barrier that gives rise to gates allowing for Giardia-tissue invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martha Ponce-Macotela
- Parasitología Experimental, Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, Insurgentes Sur No. 3700-C, México, D.F. C.P. 04530, Mexico
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23
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Abstract
Giardia lamblia, the cause of human giardiasis, is among the most common intestinal protozoa worldwide. Human infection may range from asymptomatic shedding of giardial cysts to symptomatic giardiasis, being responsible for abdominal cramps, nausea, acute or chronic diarrhoea, with malabsorption and failure of children to thrive. At present, treatment options include the nitroimidazoles derivatives; especially metronidazole, which has been the mainstay of treatment for decades and is still widely used. The increasing number of reports of refractory cases with this group of drugs and other antigiardial agents, has raised concern and led to a search for other compounds, some of which have arisen due to the introduction of drugs initially addressed to other diseases. The present article examines some of the most important points of antigiardial pharmacotherapy available at present and the future prospects of development of new agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angel A Escobedo
- Jefe del departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Hospital Pediatrico Universitario Pedro Borrás, Ciudad de La Habana, CP, Cuba.
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Gadelha APR, Travassos R, Monteiro-Leal LH. The evaluation of a semiautomated computer method to determine the effects of DMSO on Giardia lamblia–intestinal cell interaction. Parasitol Res 2007; 101:1401-6. [PMID: 17659385 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-007-0661-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2007] [Revised: 06/22/2007] [Accepted: 06/27/2007] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
In this work, we describe a semiautomated computer method to evaluate the activity of a common drug solvent, dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), on in vitro Giardia lamblia-host cell interaction. To compare the number of intestinal cells (IEC-6) and the adhered trophozoites over a specific area in control and treated coculture, a computer routine was created. Using video-light microscopy and digital image-processing tools, the operator was able to count the number of epithelial cells or parasites when they were still lying on the slide surface and without the need to detach them from the substrate for counting with a hemocytometer or other counting devices. Using this strategy, we calculated the total cell number per area and verified the effects of different concentrations of DMSO on G. lamblia-intestinal cell interaction and on the IEC-6 culture. At concentrations of 0.2% and 1%, this solvent produced a fragmentation on the monolayer of epithelial cells. However, DMSO did not affect the attachment of G. lamblia. In the course of these experiments, we compared the semiautomated method to the manual counting method and found that the first one generated smaller standard deviations (SD) than the second.
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Affiliation(s)
- A P R Gadelha
- Laboratório de Microscopia e Processamento de Imagens, Departamento de Histologia e Embriologia, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Av. Prof. Manoel de Abreu, 444, 30 andar, Maracanã, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 20550-170, Brazil.
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25
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Hernandez Y, Castillo C, Roychowdhury S, Hehl A, Aley SB, Das S. Clathrin-dependent pathways and the cytoskeleton network are involved in ceramide endocytosis by a parasitic protozoan, Giardia lamblia. Int J Parasitol 2007; 37:21-32. [PMID: 17087963 PMCID: PMC1831817 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2006.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2006] [Revised: 09/07/2006] [Accepted: 09/11/2006] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Although identified as an early-diverged protozoan, Giardia lamblia shares many similarities with higher eukaryotic cells, including an internal membrane system and cytoskeleton, as well as secretory pathways. However, unlike many other eukaryotes, Giardia does not synthesize lipids de novo, but rather depends on exogenous sources for both energy production and organelle or membrane biogenesis. It is not known how lipid molecules are taken up by this parasite and if endocytic pathways are involved in this process. In this investigation, we tested the hypothesis that highly regulated and selective lipid transport machinery is present in Giardia and necessary for the efficient internalization and intracellular targeting of ceramide molecules, the major sphingolipid precursor. Using metabolic and pathway inhibitors, we demonstrate that ceramide is internalized through endocytic pathways and is primarily targeted into perinuclear/endoplasmic reticulum membranes. Further investigations suggested that Giardia uses both clathrin-dependent pathways and the actin cytoskeleton for ceramide uptake, as well as microtubule filaments for intracellular localization and targeting. We speculate that this parasitic protozoan has evolved cytoskeletal and clathrin-dependent endocytic mechanisms for importing ceramide molecules from the cell exterior for the synthesis of membranes and vesicles during growth and differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunuen Hernandez
- Infectious Diseases/Immunology, University of Texas at El Paso, TX 79968-0519, USA
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Müller J, Rühle G, Müller N, Rossignol JF, Hemphill A. In vitro effects of thiazolides on Giardia lamblia WB clone C6 cultured axenically and in coculture with Caco2 cells. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2006; 50:162-70. [PMID: 16377682 PMCID: PMC1346829 DOI: 10.1128/aac.50.1.162-170.2006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The thiazolides represent a novel class of anti-infective drugs, with the nitrothiazole nitazoxanide [2-acetolyloxy-N-(5-nitro 2-thiazolyl) benzamide] (NTZ) as the parent compound. NTZ exhibits a broad spectrum of activities against a wide variety of helminths, protozoa, and enteric bacteria infecting animals and humans. In vivo, NTZ is rapidly deacetylated to tizoxanide (TIZ), which exhibits similar activities. We have here comparatively investigated the in vitro effects of NTZ, TIZ, a number of other modified thiazolides, and metronidazole (MTZ) on Giardia lamblia trophozoites grown under axenic culture conditions and in coculture with the human cancer colon cell line Caco2. The modifications of the thiazolides included, on one hand, the replacement of the nitro group on the thiazole ring with a bromide, and, on the other hand, the differential positioning of methyl groups on the benzene ring. Of seven compounds with a bromo instead of a nitro group, only one, RM4820, showed moderate inhibition of Giardia proliferation in axenic culture, but not in coculture with Caco2 cells, with a 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 18.8 microM; in comparison, NTZ and tizoxanide had IC50s of 2.4 microM, and MTZ had an IC50 of 7.8 microM. Moreover, the methylation or carboxylation of the benzene ring at position 3 resulted in a significant decrease of activity, and methylation at position 5 completely abrogated the antiparasitic effect of the nitrothiazole compound. Trophozoites treated with NTZ showed distinct lesions on the ventral disk as soon as 2 to 3 h after treatment, whereas treatment with metronidazole resulted in severe damage to the dorsal surface membrane at later time points.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joachim Müller
- Institute of Parasitology, University of Bern, Länggass-Strasse 122, CH-3012 Bern, Switzerland
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