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Alanazi AD, Alnomasy SF. Immunomodulatory, Antioxidant, and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Green Synthesized Copper Nanoparticles for Treatment of Chronic Toxoplasma gondii Infection. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1574. [PMID: 38004439 PMCID: PMC10675508 DOI: 10.3390/ph16111574] [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: 09/02/2023] [Revised: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nowadays, interest in the use of nanotechnology for medical purposes is increasing. The current experimental investigation is planned for the green synthesis, characterization, and efficacy of copper nanoparticles (CLN) against chronic Toxoplasma gondii infection. METHODS Green synthesis of CNP was performed using the Lupinus arcticus extract via the precipitation method. The effects of CNP on tachyzoites, infectivity rate, parasites inside THP-1 cells, nitric oxide (NO) triggering, iNOS, and IFN-γ expression genes were evaluated. Following toxoplasmosis in BALB/c mice via the T. gondii ME49 strain, mice received CNP at 5 and 10 mg/kg/day alone and combined with pyrimethamine (PYM) at 5 mg/kg for two weeks. CNP's in vivo effects were evaluated by analyzing the load and size of cysts, oxidant/antioxidant enzymes, and bradyzoite surface antigen 1 (BAG1) expression gene levels. RESULTS CNP displayed a circular shape ranging from 10 to 85 nm. The IC50 value of CNP and PYM against tachyzoites was 37.2 and 25.7 µg/mL, respectively, whereas the CC50 value of CNP and pyrimethamine against THP-1 cells was 491.4 μg/mL and 269.5 μg/mL, respectively. The rate of infectivity and parasite load among THP-1 cells exposed to CNP was obviously reduced (p < 0.05). CNP at the doses of 5 and 10 mg/kg predominantly along with PYM evidently (p < 0.05) reduced the number and size of the T. gondii cysts in the infected mice. The levels of NO, iNOS, and IFN-γ genes were remarkably (p < 0.001) boosted compared with the cells without treatment. CNP at the doses of 10 and 20 mg/kg drastically (p < 0.05) reduced the oxidative stress markers in the infected mice, whereas CNP significantly elevated the level of antioxidant factors. CNP also revealed no toxicity in the liver and kidney at the tested doses in healthy mice. CONCLUSIONS Our experimental study reported the beneficial effects of CNP principally along with existing chemical drugs against latent toxoplasmosis in mice, whereas the possible action mechanisms of CNP are controlling oxidative stress, refining antioxidant enzymes, and increasing the production of immunomodulatory cytokines with no toxicity to the function of vital organs. But, additional trials are required to confirm these results, as well as to clarify the accurate mechanisms and their toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah D. Alanazi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science and Humanities, Shaqra University, P.O. Box 1040, Ad-Dawadimi 11911, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sultan F. Alnomasy
- Department of Medical Laboratories Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Shaqra University, Al-Quwayiyah 19257, Saudi Arabia;
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El-kady AM, Abdel-Rahman IAM, Sayed E, Wakid MH, Alobaid HM, Mohamed K, Alshehri EA, Elshazly H, Al-Megrin WAI, Iqbal F, Elshabrawy HA, Timsah AG. A potential herbal therapeutic for trichinellosis. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:970327. [PMID: 36082215 PMCID: PMC9445247 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.970327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BackgroundTrichinellosis is a helminthic disease caused by Trichinella spiralis via the ingestion of raw or undercooked meat of infected animals. Current estimates indicate that 11 million humans have trichinellosis, worldwide. The effective use of anti-trichinella medications is limited by side effects and resistance which highlight the critical need for safe and effective drugs, particularly those derived from medicinal plants. Therefore, in the present study, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy of the ethanolic extract of Artemisia annua (A. annua) in treatment of experimentally induced trichinellosis.Materials and methodsTrichinellosis was induced experimentally in male 6–8 weeks BALB/c mice. BALB/c mice were divided into four groups, 10 mice each. One group was left uninfected and untreated, whereas three groups were infected with T. spiralis. One infected group of mice was left untreated (negative control) while the remaining two infected groups received either 300 mg/kg of the ethanolic extract of A. annua or 50 mg/kg of albendazole (positive control). All treatments started from the third day post-infection (dpi) for 3 successive days. All animals were sacrificed on the 7th dpi for evaluation of treatment efficacy.ResultsOur findings showed that A. annua treatment reduced the T. spiralis adult-worm count in the intestine of infected animals. Moreover, treatment with A. annua restored the normal intestinal architecture, reduced edema, alleviated inflammation as demonstrated by reduced inflammatory infiltrate and expression of TGF-β in intestinal tissues of A. annua-treated animals compared to infected untreated animals.ConclusionsOur findings show that A. annua extract is effective in treating experimentally induced trichinellosis which highlight the therapeutic potential of A. annua for intestinal trichinellosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asmaa M. El-kady
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, South Valley University, Qena, Egypt
- *Correspondence: Asmaa M. El-kady
| | | | - Eman Sayed
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, South Valley University, Qena, Egypt
| | - Majed H. Wakid
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Special Infectious Agents Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hussah M. Alobaid
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khalil Mohamed
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Public Health and Health Informatics, Umm Al-Qura University, Mecca, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Hayam Elshazly
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences-Scientific Departments, Qassim University, Buraidah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Beni-Suef University, Beni Suef, Egypt
| | - Wafa Abdullah I. Al-Megrin
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Princess Nourah bint Adbulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Furhan Iqbal
- Zoology Division, Institute of Pure and Applied Biology, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan
| | - Hatem A. Elshabrawy
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, College of Osteopathic Medicine, Sam Houston State University, Conroe, TX, United States
- Hatem A. Elshabrawy
| | - Ashraf G. Timsah
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Baha University, Al Baha, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, New Damietta City, Egypt
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Jelali H, Al Nasr IS, Koko WS, Khan TA, Deniau E, Sauthier M, Alresheedi F, Hamdi N. Synthesis, characterization and in vitro bioactivity studies of isoindolin‐1‐3‐phosophonate compounds. J Heterocycl Chem 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/jhet.4396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hamida Jelali
- Research Laboratory of Environmental Sciences and Technologies (LR16ES09), Higher Institute of Environmental Sciences and Technology University of Carthage Hammam‐Lif Tunisia
| | - Ibrahim S. Al Nasr
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Arts Qassim University Unaizah Saudi Arabia
- Department of Science Laboratories, College of Science and Arts Qassim University Ar Rass Saudi Arabia
| | - Waleed S. Koko
- Department of Science Laboratories, College of Science and Arts Qassim University Ar Rass Saudi Arabia
| | - Tariq A. Khan
- Department of Biomedical Instrumentation, College of Applied Health Sciences Qassim University Ar Rass Saudi Arabia
| | - Eric Deniau
- Université de Lille, UMR CNRS 8181, Unité de Catalyse et Chimie du Solide, USTL–ENSCL Villeneuve d'Ascq cedex France
| | - Mathieu Sauthier
- Université de Lille, UMR CNRS 8181, Unité de Catalyse et Chimie du Solide, USTL–ENSCL Villeneuve d'Ascq cedex France
| | - Faisal Alresheedi
- Department of Physics, College of Science Qassim University Buraidah Saudi Arabia
| | - Naceur Hamdi
- Research Laboratory of Environmental Sciences and Technologies (LR16ES09), Higher Institute of Environmental Sciences and Technology University of Carthage Hammam‐Lif Tunisia
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science and Arts Qassim University Ar Rass Saudi Arabia
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Guo H, Gao Y, N'Da DD, Xuan X. In vitro anti-Toxoplasma gondii efficacy of synthesised benzyltriazole derivatives. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 88:e1-e8. [PMID: 34212734 PMCID: PMC8252180 DOI: 10.4102/ojvr.v88i1.1898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Revised: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii, an obligate intracellular parasite, is the aetiological agent of toxoplasmosis, a disease that affects approximately 25% – 30% of the world’s population. At present, no safe and effective vaccine exists for the prevention of toxoplasmosis. Current treatment options for toxoplasmosis are active only against tachyzoites and may also cause bone marrow toxicity. To contribute to the global search for novel agents for the treatment of toxoplasmosis, we herein report the in vitro activities of previously synthesised benzyltriazole derivatives. The effects of these compounds against T. gondii in vitro were evaluated by using a expressing green fluorescent protein (GFP) type I strain parasite (RH-GFP) and a type II cyst-forming strain of parasite (PruΔku80Δhxgprt). The frontline antitubercular drug isoniazid, designated as Frans J. Smit -isoniazid (FJS-INH), was also included in the screening as a preliminary test in view of future repurposing of this agent. Of the compounds screened, FJS-302, FJS-303, FJS-403 and FJS-INH demonstrated > 80% parasite growth inhibition with IC50 values of 5.6 µg/mL, 6.8 µg/µL, 7.0 µg/mL and 19.8 µg/mL, respectively. FJS-302, FJS-303 and FJS-403 inhibited parasite invasion and replication, whereas, sulphadiazine (SFZ), the positive control, was only effective against parasite replication. In addition, SFZ induced bradyzoite differentiation in vitro, whilst FJS-302, FJS-303 and FJS-403 did not increase the bradyzoite number. These results indicate that FJS-302, FJS-303 and FJS-403 have the potential to act as a viable source of antiparasitic therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huanping Guo
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro.
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5
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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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Abdullahi SA, Unyah NZ, Nordin N, Basir R, Nasir WM, Alapid AA, Hassan Y, Mustapha T, Majid RA. Phytochemicals and Potential Therapeutic Targets on Toxoplasma gondii Parasite. Mini Rev Med Chem 2021; 20:739-753. [PMID: 31660810 DOI: 10.2174/1389557519666191029105736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2019] [Revised: 09/26/2019] [Accepted: 10/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Identification of drug target in protozoan T. gondii is an important step in the development of chemotherapeutic agents. Likewise, exploring phytochemical compounds effective against the parasite can lead to the development of new drug agent that can be useful for prophylaxis and treatment of toxoplasmosis. In this review, we searched for the relevant literature on the herbs that were tested against T. gondii either in vitro or in vivo, as well as different phytochemicals and their potential activities on T. gondii. Potential activities of major phytochemicals, such as alkaloid, flavonoid, terpenoids and tannins on various target sites on T. gondii as well as other related parasites was discussed. It is believed that the phytochemicals from natural sources are potential drug candidates for the treatment of toxoplasmosis with little or no toxicity to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharif Alhassan Abdullahi
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Putra, Selangor, Malaysia.,Faculty of Clinical Sciences, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria
| | - Ngah Zasmy Unyah
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Putra, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Noshariza Nordin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Putra, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Rusliza Basir
- Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Putra, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Wana Mohammed Nasir
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Putra, Selangor, Malaysia.,Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi, Nigeria
| | - Ashraf Ahmad Alapid
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Putra, Selangor, Malaysia.,Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science-Alassaba, University of Gharyan, Gharyan, Libya
| | - Yahaya Hassan
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Putra, Selangor, Malaysia.,Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Bayero University Kano, Nigeria
| | - Tijjani Mustapha
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Putra, Selangor, Malaysia.,Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Yobe State University, Damaturi, Nigeria
| | - Roslaini Abd Majid
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Putra, Selangor, Malaysia
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7
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Khamesipour F, Razavi SM, Hejazi SH, Ghanadian SM. In vitro and in vivo Anti-Toxoplasma activity of Dracocephalum kotschyi essential oil. Food Sci Nutr 2021; 9:522-531. [PMID: 33473313 PMCID: PMC7802582 DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2020] [Revised: 10/31/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a zoonotic parasite of worldwide importance, responsible for toxoplasmosis in homeotherms. Although treatment options are readily available, most drugs often cause serious side effects. Extracts of Dracocephalum kotschyi (D. kotschyi) have shown significant pharmacological activity against various parasites, viruses, and bacteria. In this study, we evaluated the anti-T. gondii activity in vitro and in vivo of D. kotschyi essential oil. The thiazolyl blue tetrazolium bromide (MTT) method was used to assess the anti-T. gondii activity and cytotoxicity of the essential oil. The presence of T. gondii was observed by Giemsa staining, and the viability was evaluated by the trypan blue staining method. Furthermore, the survival rate of acutely infected mice was evaluated by intraperitoneal injecting of the essential oil (50, 100, and 200 mg kg-1 day-1) for five days after infection with 2 × 104 tachyzoites. Essential oil, negative, and positive controls that showed the best toxoplasmacidal activity were assayed in triplicate at each concentration. The essential oil exhibited the highest anti-Toxoplasma activity with a half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 9.94 ± 0.38 µg, with a selectivity index of 2.463. On Vero cells, the CC50 of the oil was 24.49 ± 0.96 µg and exhibited a significant anti-Toxoplasma activity. Moreover, the treatment by essential oil significantly increased the survival rate compared to untreated infected control. In conclusion, the essential oil might be a useful compound, and with more testing, it may be an excellent alternative to standard chemical drugs in the treatment of toxoplasmosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faham Khamesipour
- Department of PathobiologySchool of Veterinary MedicineShiraz UniversityShirazIran
| | - Seyed Mostafa Razavi
- Department of PathobiologySchool of Veterinary MedicineShiraz UniversityShirazIran
| | - Seyed Hossein Hejazi
- Department of Parasitology and MycologySkin Diseases and Leishmaniasis Research CenterSchool of MedicineIsfahan University of Medical SciencesIsfahanIran
| | - Seyed Mustafa Ghanadian
- Department of PharmacognosyIsfahan Pharmaceutical Sciences Research CenterIsfahan University of Medical SciencesIsfahanIran
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8
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Traditional application and modern pharmacological research of Artemisia annua L. Pharmacol Ther 2020; 216:107650. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2020.107650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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9
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Touj N, Nasr ISA, Koko WS, Khan TA, Özdemir I, Yasar S, Mansour L, Alresheedi F, Hamdi N. Anticancer, antimicrobial and antiparasitical activities of copper(I) complexes based on N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) ligands bearing aryl substituents. J COORD CHEM 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/00958972.2020.1836359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nedra Touj
- Research Laboratory of Environmental Sciences and Technologies (LR16ES09), Higher Institute of Environmental Sciences and Technology, University of Carthage, Hammam-Lif, Tunisia
| | - Ibrahim S. Al Nasr
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Arts, Qassim University, Unaizah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Science Laboratories, College of Science and Arts, Qassim University, Ar Rass, Saudi Arabia
| | - Waleed S. Koko
- Department of Science Laboratories, College of Science and Arts, Qassim University, Ar Rass, Saudi Arabia
| | - Tariq A. Khan
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, College of Applied Health Sciences, Qassim University, Ar Rass, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ismail Özdemir
- Faculty of Science and Art, Department of Chemistry, İnönü University, Malatya, Turkey
- Catalysis Research and Application Center, İnönü University, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Sedat Yasar
- Faculty of Science and Art, Department of Chemistry, İnönü University, Malatya, Turkey
- Catalysis Research and Application Center, İnönü University, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Lamjed Mansour
- Zoology Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Saudi Arabia
| | - Faisal Alresheedi
- Department of Physics, College of Science, Qassim University, Buraidah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Naceur Hamdi
- Department of Science Laboratories, College of Science and Arts, Qassim University, Ar Rass, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science and Arts, Qassim University, Ar Rass, Saudi Arabia
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10
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Hydroxylamine and Carboxymethoxylamine Can Inhibit Toxoplasma gondii Growth through an Aspartate Aminotransferase-Independent Pathway. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2020; 64:AAC.01889-19. [PMID: 31907178 DOI: 10.1128/aac.01889-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Accepted: 12/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular protozoan parasite and a successful parasitic pathogen in diverse organisms and host cell types. Hydroxylamine (HYD) and carboxymethoxylamine (CAR) have been reported as inhibitors of aspartate aminotransferases (AATs) and interfere with the proliferation in Plasmodium falciparum Therefore, AATs are suggested as drug targets against Plasmodium The T. gondii genome encodes only one predicted AAT in both T. gondii type I strain RH and type II strain PLK. However, the effects of HYD and CAR, as well as their relationship with AAT, on T. gondii remain unclear. In this study, we found that HYD and CAR impaired the lytic cycle of T. gondii in vitro, including the inhibition of invasion or reinvasion, intracellular replication, and egress. Importantly, HYD and CAR could control acute toxoplasmosis in vivo Further studies showed that HYD and CAR could inhibit the transamination activity of rTgAAT in vitro However, our results confirmed that deficiency of AAT in both RH and PLK did not reduce the virulence in mice, although the growth ability of the parasites was affected in vitro HYD and CAR could still inhibit the growth of AAT-deficient parasites. These findings indicated that HYD and CAR inhibition of T. gondii growth and control of toxoplasmosis can occur in an AAT-independent pathway. Overall, further studies focusing on the elucidation of the mechanism of inhibition are warranted. Our study hints at new substrates of HYD and CAR as potential drug targets to inhibit T. gondii growth.
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11
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Anti-parasitic effect on Toxoplasma gondii induced by a spider peptide lycosin-I. Exp Parasitol 2019; 198:17-25. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2019.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2018] [Revised: 11/30/2018] [Accepted: 01/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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12
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The modulatory effect of Artemisia annua L. on toll-like receptor expression in Acanthamoeba infected mouse lungs. Exp Parasitol 2019; 199:24-29. [PMID: 30796912 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2019.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2018] [Revised: 12/30/2018] [Accepted: 02/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The genus Acanthamoeba, which may cause different infections in humans, occurs widely in the environment. Lung inflammation caused by these parasites induces pulmonary pathological changes such as pulmonary necrosis, peribronchial plasma cell infiltration, moderate desquamation of alveolar cells and partial destruction of bronchial epithelial cells, and presence of numerous trophozoites and cysts among inflammatory cells. The aim of this study was to assess the influence of plant extracts from Artemisia annua L. on expression of the toll-like receptors TLR2 and TLR4 in lungs of mice with acanthamoebiasis. A. annua, which belongs to the family Asteraceae, is an annual plant that grows wild in Asia. In this study, statistically significant changes of expression of TLR2 and TLR4 were demonstrated. In the lungs of infected mice after application of extract from A. annua the expression of TLRs was observed mainly in bronchial epithelial cells, pneumocytes (to a lesser extent during the outbreak of infection), and in the course of high general TLR expression. TLR4 in particular was also visible in stromal cells of lung parenchyma. In conclusion, we confirmed that a plant extract of A. annua has a modulatory effect on components of the immune system such as TLR2 and TLR4.
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El-Tantawy NL, Soliman AF, Abdel-Magied A, Ghorab D, Khalil AT, Naeem ZM, Shimizu K, El-Sharkawy SH. Could Araucaria heterophylla resin extract be used as a new treatment for toxoplasmosis? Exp Parasitol 2018; 195:44-53. [PMID: 30339984 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2018.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2018] [Revised: 09/25/2018] [Accepted: 10/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is a worldwide parasitic disease responsible for serious health problems to human. The currently available drugs used for toxoplasmosis treatment showed a limited efficacy and cause serious host toxicity. The in vitro screening for toxoplasmicidal activity of Araucaria heterophylla resin (AHR) extract and its major component 13-epi-cupressic acid (CUP) showed that both AHR (EC50 = 3.90) and CUP (EC50 = 3.69) have high toxoplasmicidal activity in comparison with standard cotrimoxazole (EC50 = 4.28). The antiprotozoal effects of AHR and CUP were investigated against acute and chronic toxoplasmosis using mice models. Two groups of Swiss albino mice were infected by RH Toxoplasma strain intraperitoneally and by Me49 strain orally. Both groups were treated with AHR and CUP in different doses. Their effects were evaluated by survival rate, peritoneal, spleen and liver parasite burdens, brain cyst burden, NO serum level and histopathological lesions. The ultrastructural changes of tachyzoites of acutely infected mice were studied using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). There is an evidence of toxoplasmicidal activity of AHR and CUP in acute and chronic experimental toxoplasmosis. In the acute model, mice treated with AHR and CUP showed prolonged survival rates, a significant decrease in the parasite density in peritoneal lavage and pathological insult in both liver and spleen compared with that of untreated ones. SEM results denote evident morphological alterations of treated tachyzoites. In chronic experimental toxoplasmosis, AHR and CUP treated groups could significantly reduce brain cyst burden by 96.05% and 98.02% respectively. This study indicates that AHR and CUP showed potent toxoplasmicidal activities experimentally and could be used as a potential natural nontoxic agent for treatment of toxoplasmosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nora L El-Tantawy
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt.
| | - Amal F Soliman
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Aida Abdel-Magied
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Doaa Ghorab
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Ashraf T Khalil
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Zein M Naeem
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Kuniyoshi Shimizu
- Division of Systematic Forest and Forest Products Sciences, Department of Agro-Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Graduate School of Kyushu University, Fukuoka, 812-8581, Japan
| | - Saleh H El-Sharkawy
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
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Oliveira T, Costa I, Marinho V, Carvalho V, Uchôa K, Ayres C, Teixeira S, Vasconcelos DFP. Human foreskin fibroblasts: from waste bag to important biomedical applications. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL UROLOGY 2018. [DOI: 10.1177/2051415818761526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Circumcision is one of the most performed surgical procedures worldwide, and it is estimated that one in three men worldwide is circumcised, which makes the preputial skin removed after surgery an abundant material for possible applications. In particular, it is possible efficiently to isolate the cells of the foreskin, with fibroblasts being the most abundant cells of the dermis and the most used in biomedical research. This work aimed to review the knowledge and obtain a broad view of the main applications of human foreskin fibroblast cell culture. A literature search was conducted, including clinical trials, preclinical basic research studies, reviews and experimental studies. Several medical and laboratory applications of human foreskin fibroblast cell culture have been described, especially when it comes to the use of human foreskin fibroblasts as feeder cells for the cultivation of human embryonic stem cells, in addition to co-culture with other cell types. The culture of foreskin fibroblasts has also been used to: obtain induced pluripotent stem cells; the diagnosis of Clostridium difficile; to test the toxicity and effect of substances on normal cells, especially the toxicity of possible antineoplastic drugs; in viral culture, mainly of the human cytomegalovirus, study of the pathogenesis of other microorganisms; varied studies of cellular physiology and cellular interactions. Fibroblasts are important for cell models for varied application cultures, demonstrating how the preputial material can be reused, making possible new applications. Level of evidence: Not applicable for this multicentre audit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomaz Oliveira
- Genetics and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Federal University of Piauí (UFPI), Brazil
- Brain Mapping and Plasticity Laboratory, Federal University of Piauí (UFPI), Brazil
- Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Piauí (UFPI), Brazil
| | - Ilana Costa
- Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Piauí (UFPI), Brazil
| | - Victor Marinho
- Genetics and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Federal University of Piauí (UFPI), Brazil
- Brain Mapping and Plasticity Laboratory, Federal University of Piauí (UFPI), Brazil
- Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Piauí (UFPI), Brazil
| | - Valécia Carvalho
- Brain Mapping and Plasticity Laboratory, Federal University of Piauí (UFPI), Brazil
- Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Piauí (UFPI), Brazil
| | - Karla Uchôa
- Genetics and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Federal University of Piauí (UFPI), Brazil
- Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Piauí (UFPI), Brazil
| | - Carla Ayres
- Brain Mapping and Plasticity Laboratory, Federal University of Piauí (UFPI), Brazil
| | - Silmar Teixeira
- Brain Mapping and Plasticity Laboratory, Federal University of Piauí (UFPI), Brazil
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15
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Wojtkowiak-Giera A, Derda M, Kosik-Bogacka D, Kolasa-Wołosiuk A, Solarczyk P, Cholewiński M, Wandurska-Nowak E, Jagodziński PP, Hadaś E. Influence of Artemisia annua L. on toll-like receptor expression in brain of mice infected with Acanthamoeba sp. Exp Parasitol 2018; 185:17-22. [PMID: 29317241 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2018.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2017] [Revised: 12/16/2017] [Accepted: 01/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The treatment of acanthamoebiasis is a still a problem. Our previous studies showed that the application of extracts from Artemisia annua L. significantly prolonged the survival of mice infected by Acanthamoeba. This plant has medicinal properties in the treatment of human parasitic diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of A. annua on expression of Toll-like receptors (TLRs) 2 and 4 in brain of mice with Acanthamoeba infection. Mice were infected with Acanthamoeba sp. strain Ac309 (KY203908) by intranasal inoculation without and after application of A. annua extract. The administration of extract from A. annua significantly reduced the level of expression of TLR2 and modified the level of expression of TLR4. A. annua extract is a natural substance that is well tolerated in animals and may be considered as a combination therapy in treatment of acanthamoebiasis. Our study suggested that A. annua extract may be used as an alternative therapeutic tool.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Wojtkowiak-Giera
- Department of Biology and Medical Parasitology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 10 Fredry Street, 61-701 Poznan, Poland
| | - Monika Derda
- Department of Biology and Medical Parasitology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 10 Fredry Street, 61-701 Poznan, Poland.
| | - Danuta Kosik-Bogacka
- Department of Biology and Medical Parasitology, Pomeranian Medical University, 72 Powstancow Wielkopolskich Street, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Kolasa-Wołosiuk
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Pomeranian Medical University, 71 Powstancow Wielkopolskich Street, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Piotr Solarczyk
- Department of Biology and Medical Parasitology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 10 Fredry Street, 61-701 Poznan, Poland
| | - Marcin Cholewiński
- Department of Biology and Medical Parasitology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 10 Fredry Street, 61-701 Poznan, Poland
| | - Elżbieta Wandurska-Nowak
- Department of Biology and Medical Parasitology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 10 Fredry Street, 61-701 Poznan, Poland
| | - Paweł P Jagodziński
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 6 Swiecickiego Street, 60-781 Poznań, Poland
| | - Edward Hadaś
- Department of Biology and Medical Parasitology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 10 Fredry Street, 61-701 Poznan, Poland
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16
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Portes J, Motta C, Azeredo N, Fernandes C, Horn A, De Souza W, DaMatta R, Seabra S. In vitro treatment of Toxoplasma gondii with copper(II) complexes induces apoptosis-like and cellular division alterations. Vet Parasitol 2017; 245:141-152. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2017.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2016] [Revised: 03/21/2017] [Accepted: 04/02/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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17
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da Silva RJ, Gomes AO, Franco PS, Pereira AS, Milian ICB, Ribeiro M, Fiorenzani P, dos Santos MC, Mineo JR, da Silva NM, Ferro EAV, de Freitas Barbosa B. Enrofloxacin and Toltrazuril Are Able to Reduce Toxoplasma gondii Growth in Human BeWo Trophoblastic Cells and Villous Explants from Human Third Trimester Pregnancy. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2017; 7:340. [PMID: 28798905 PMCID: PMC5526852 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2017.00340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2017] [Accepted: 07/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Classical treatment for congenital toxoplasmosis is based on combination of sulfadiazine and pyrimethamine plus folinic acid. Due to teratogenic effects and bone marrow suppression caused by pyrimethamine, the establishment of new therapeutic strategies is indispensable to minimize the side effects and improve the control of infection. Previous studies demonstrated that enrofloxacin and toltrazuril reduced the incidence of Neospora caninum and Toxoplasma gondii infection. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy of enrofloxacin and toltrazuril in the control of T. gondii infection in human trophoblast cells (BeWo line) and in human villous explants from the third trimester. BeWo cells and villous were treated with several concentrations of enrofloxacin, toltrazuril, sulfadiazine, pyrimethamine, or combination of sulfadiazine+pyrimethamine, and the cellular or tissue viability was verified. Next, BeWo cells were infected by T. gondii (2F1 clone or the ME49 strain), whereas villous samples were only infected by the 2F1 clone. Then, infected cells and villous were treated with all antibiotics and the T. gondii intracellular proliferation as well as the cytokine production were analyzed. Finally, we evaluated the direct effect of enrofloxacin and toltrazuril in tachyzoites to verify possible changes in parasite structure. Enrofloxacin and toltrazuril did not decrease the viability of cells and villous in lower concentrations. Both drugs were able to significantly reduce the parasite intracellular proliferation in BeWo cells and villous explants when compared to untreated conditions. Regardless of the T. gondii strain, BeWo cells infected and treated with enrofloxacin or toltrazuril induced high levels of IL-6 and MIF. In villous explants, enrofloxacin induced high MIF production. Finally, the drugs increased the number of unviable parasites and triggered damage to tachyzoite structure. Taken together, it can be concluded that enrofloxacin and toltrazuril are able to control T. gondii infection in BeWo cells and villous explants, probably by a direct action on the host cells and parasites, which leads to modifications of cytokine release and tachyzoite structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafaela J. da Silva
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Science, Federal University of UberlândiaUberlândia, Brazil
| | - Angelica O. Gomes
- Departament of Morphology, Federal University of Triângulo MineiroUberaba, Brazil
| | - Priscila S. Franco
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Science, Federal University of UberlândiaUberlândia, Brazil
| | - Ariane S. Pereira
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Science, Federal University of UberlândiaUberlândia, Brazil
| | - Iliana C. B. Milian
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Science, Federal University of UberlândiaUberlândia, Brazil
| | - Mayara Ribeiro
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Science, Federal University of UberlândiaUberlândia, Brazil
| | - Paolo Fiorenzani
- Department of Medical, Surgery and Neuroscience, University of SienaSiena, Italy
| | - Maria C. dos Santos
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of UberlândiaUberlândia, Brazil
| | - José R. Mineo
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Institute of Biomedical Science, Federal University of UberlândiaUberlândia, Brazil
| | - Neide M. da Silva
- Laboratory of Immunopathology, Institute of Biomedical Science, Federal University of UberlandiaUberlândia, Brazil
| | - Eloisa A. V. Ferro
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Science, Federal University of UberlândiaUberlândia, Brazil
| | - Bellisa de Freitas Barbosa
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Science, Federal University of UberlândiaUberlândia, Brazil
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18
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Palharini JG, Richter AC, Silva MF, Ferreira FB, Pirovani CP, Naves KSC, Goulart VA, Mineo TWP, Silva MJB, Santiago FM. Eutirucallin: A Lectin with Antitumor and Antimicrobial Properties. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2017; 7:136. [PMID: 28487845 PMCID: PMC5403948 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2017.00136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2016] [Accepted: 03/31/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Eutirucallin is a lectin isolated from the latex of Euphorbia tirucalli, a plant known for its medical properties. The present study explores various characteristics of Eutirucallin including stability, cytotoxicity against tumor cells, antimicrobial and antiparasitic activities. Eutirucallin was stable from 2 to 40 days at 4°C, maintained hemagglutinating activity within a restricted range, and showed optimal activity at pH 7.0–8.0. Eutirucallin presented antiproliferative activity for HeLa, PC3, MDA-MB-231, and MCF-7 tumor cells but was not cytotoxic for non-tumorigenic cells such as macrophages and fibroblasts. Eutirucallin inhibited the Ehrlich ascites carcinoma in vivo and it was also observed that Eutirucallin inhibited 62.5% of Escherichia coli growth. Also, Eutirucallin showed to be effective when tested directly against Toxoplasma gondii infection in vitro. Therefore, this study sheds perspectives for pharmacological applications of Eutirucallin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julio G Palharini
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology "Dr. Mario Endsfeldz Camargo", Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of UberlândiaUberlândia, Brazil
| | - Aline C Richter
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology "Dr. Mario Endsfeldz Camargo", Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of UberlândiaUberlândia, Brazil
| | - Mariana F Silva
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology "Dr. Mario Endsfeldz Camargo", Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of UberlândiaUberlândia, Brazil
| | - Flavia B Ferreira
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology "Dr. Mario Endsfeldz Camargo", Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of UberlândiaUberlândia, Brazil
| | - Carlos P Pirovani
- Biological Sciences Department, State University of Santa CruzIlhéus, Brazil
| | - Karinne S C Naves
- Laboratory of Clinical Bacteriology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of UberlândiaUberlândia, Brazil
| | - Vivian A Goulart
- Laboratory of Nanobiotechnology, Institute of Genetics and Biochemistry, Federal University of UberlândiaUberlândia, Brazil
| | - Tiago W P Mineo
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology "Dr. Mario Endsfeldz Camargo", Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of UberlândiaUberlândia, Brazil
| | - Marcelo J B Silva
- Laboratory of Tumor Biomarkers and Osteoimmunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of UberlândiaUberlândia, Brazil
| | - Fernanda M Santiago
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology "Dr. Mario Endsfeldz Camargo", Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of UberlândiaUberlândia, Brazil
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19
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Sharif M, Sarvi S, Pagheh AS, Asfaram S, Rahimi MT, Mehrzadi S, Ahmadpour E, Gholami S, Daryani A. The efficacy of herbal medicines against Toxoplasma gondii during the last 3 decades: a systematic review. Can J Physiol Pharmacol 2016; 94:1237-1248. [DOI: 10.1139/cjpp-2016-0039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The objective of the current study was to systematically review papers discussing the efficacy of medicinal herbs against Toxoplasma gondii. Data were systematically collected from published papers about the efficacy of herbs used against T. gondii globally from 1988 to 2015, from PubMed, Google Scholar, ISI Web of Science, EBSCO, Science Direct, and Scopus. Forty-nine papers were included in the current systematic review reporting the evaluation of medicinal plants against T. gondii globally, both in vitro and in vivo. Sixty-one plants were evaluated. Most of the studies were carried out on Artemisia annua. The second highest number of studies were carried out on Glycyrrhiza glabra extracts. RH and ME49 were the predominant parasite strains used. Additionally, Swiss-Webster and BALB/c mice were the major animal models used. Alcoholic and aqueous extracts were used more than other types of extracts. Natural compounds mentioned here may be developed as novel and more effective therapeutic agents that improve the treatment of toxoplasmosis due to their lower side effects, higher availability, and better cultural acceptance compared with those of the chemical drugs that are currently being used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahdi Sharif
- Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Sari Medical School, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Shahabeddin Sarvi
- Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Sari Medical School, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Abdol Sattar Pagheh
- Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Sari Medical School, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Shabnam Asfaram
- Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Sari Medical School, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | | | - Saeed Mehrzadi
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ehsan Ahmadpour
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Shirzad Gholami
- Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Sari Medical School, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Ahmad Daryani
- Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Sari Medical School, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
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20
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Ramos ELP, Santana SS, Silva MV, Santiago FM, Mineo TWP, Mineo JR. Lectins from Synadenium carinatum (ScLL) and Artocarpus heterophyllus (ArtinM) Are Able to Induce Beneficial Immunomodulatory Effects in a Murine Model for Treatment of Toxoplasma gondii Infection. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2016; 6:164. [PMID: 27933277 PMCID: PMC5122570 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2016.00164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2016] [Accepted: 11/11/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Infection by Toxoplasma gondii affects around one-third of world population and the treatment for patients presenting toxoplasmosis clinically manifested disease is mainly based by a combination of sulfadiazine, pyrimethamine, and folinic acid. However, this therapeutic protocol is significantly toxic, causing relevant dose-related bone marrow damage. Thus, it is necessary to improve new approaches to investigate the usefulness of more effective and non-toxic agents for treatment of patients with toxoplasmosis. It has been described that lectins from plants can control parasite infections, when used as immunological adjuvants in vaccination procedures. This type of lectins, such as ArtinM and ScLL is able to induce immunostimulatory activities, including efficient immune response against parasites. The present study aimed to evaluate the potential immunostimulatory effect of ScLL and ArtinM for treatment of T. gondii infection during acute phase, considering that there is no study in the literature accomplishing this issue. For this purpose, bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) were treated with different concentrations from each lectin to determine the maximum concentration without or with lowest cytotoxic effect. After, it was also measured the cytokine levels produced by these cells when stimulated by the selected concentrations of lectins. We found that ScLL showed high capacity to induce of pro-inflammatory cytokine production, while ArtinM was able to induce especially an anti-inflammatory cytokines production. Furthermore, both lectins were able to increase NO levels. Next, we evaluated the treatment effect of ScLL and ArtinM in C57BL/6 mice infected by ME49 strain from T. gondii. The animals were infected and treated with ScLL, ArtinM, ArtinM plus ScLL, or sulfadiazine, and the following parameters analyzed: Cytokines production, brain parasite burden and survival rates. Our results demonstrated that the ScLL or ScLL plus ArtinM treatment induced production of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines, showing differential but complementary profiles. Moreover, when compared with non-treated mice, the parasite burden was significantly lower and survival rates higher in mice treated with ScLL or ScLL plus ArtinM, similarly with sulfadiazine treatment. In conclusion, the results demonstrated the suitable potential immunotherapeutic effect of ScLL and ArtinM lectins to control acute toxoplasmosis in this experimental murine model.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eliézer L P Ramos
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas-Universidade Federal de Uberlândia Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Silas S Santana
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas-Universidade Federal de Uberlândia Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Murilo V Silva
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas-Universidade Federal de Uberlândia Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Fernanda M Santiago
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas-Universidade Federal de Uberlândia Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Tiago W P Mineo
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas-Universidade Federal de Uberlândia Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - José R Mineo
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas-Universidade Federal de Uberlândia Uberlândia, Brazil
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21
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Rostkowska C, Mota CM, Oliveira TC, Santiago FM, Oliveira LA, Korndörfer GH, Lana RMQ, Rossi ML, Nogueira NL, Simonnet X, Mineo TWP, Silva DA, Mineo JR. Si-Accumulation In Artemisia annua Glandular Trichomes Increases Artemisinin Concentration, but Does Not Interfere In the Impairment of Toxoplasma gondii Growth. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2016; 7:1430. [PMID: 27721819 PMCID: PMC5033981 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2016.01430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2016] [Accepted: 09/08/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Artemisia annua is used as a source of artemisinin, a potent therapeutic agent used for the treatment of infectious diseases, chiefly malaria. However, the low concentration (from 0.01 to 1.4% of dried leaf matter) of artemisinin in the plant obtained with the traditional cropping system makes it a relatively expensive drug, especially in developing countries. Considering that artemisinin and silicon (Si) are both stored in A. annua glandular trichomes, and that Si accumulation has never been investigated, this study aimed to look into Si effects on A. annua trichome artemisinin concentration, and whether leaf infusion from Si-treated A. annua plants is able to control Toxoplasma gondii growth. T. gondii is the etiologic agent of toxoplasmosis, a zoonotic parasitic disease whose traditional treatment shows significant side effects. The experimental design consisted of A. annua seedlings randomly planted in soil treated with different doses of calcium/magnesium silicate (0, 200, 400, 800, and 1600 kg ha-1). Analysis of foliar macronutrients showed significant increases of nitrogen content only at the highest dose of silicate. Foliar micronutrients, Si concentrations, and plant height were not affected by any of the silicate doses. However, the dose of 400 kg ha-1 of silicate increased the trichome size, which in turn raised artemisinin concentration in leaves and the infusion. In contrast, the 800 and 1600 kg ha-1 doses dramatically decreased artemisinin concentration. HeLa cell treatment with the infusion of A. annua grown in soil treated with 400 kg ha-1 of silicate decreased parasite proliferation in a dose-dependent manner when the treatment was carried out after or along with T. gondii infection. However, this effect was similar to A. annua grown in soil without silicate treatment. Thus, it can be concluded that, even though Si applied to the soil at 400 kg ha-1 has a positive effect on the A. annua glandular trichome size and the artemisinin concentration, this outcome cannot be directly associated with the efficiency of A. annua infusion on T. gondii growth, suggesting that other components from A. annua leaves could be acting in synergy with artemisinin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Rostkowska
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidade Federal de UberlândiaUberlândia, Brazil
| | - Caroline M. Mota
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidade Federal de UberlândiaUberlândia, Brazil
| | - Taísa C. Oliveira
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidade Federal de UberlândiaUberlândia, Brazil
| | - Fernanda M. Santiago
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidade Federal de UberlândiaUberlândia, Brazil
| | - Lilian A. Oliveira
- Fertilizer Technology Laboratory, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Universidade Federal de UberlândiaUberlândia, Brazil
| | - Gaspar H. Korndörfer
- Fertilizer Technology Laboratory, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Universidade Federal de UberlândiaUberlândia, Brazil
| | - Regina M. Q. Lana
- Fertilizer Technology Laboratory, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Universidade Federal de UberlândiaUberlândia, Brazil
| | - Monica L. Rossi
- Laboratory of Plant Histopathology and Structural Biology of Plants, Center for Nuclear Energy in Agriculture, Universidade de São PauloPiracicaba, Brazil
| | - Neusa L. Nogueira
- Laboratory of Plant Histopathology and Structural Biology of Plants, Center for Nuclear Energy in Agriculture, Universidade de São PauloPiracicaba, Brazil
| | - Xavier Simonnet
- Mediplant, Swiss Research Centre on Medicinal and Aromatic PlantsConthey, Switzerland
| | - Tiago W. P. Mineo
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidade Federal de UberlândiaUberlândia, Brazil
| | - Deise A.O. Silva
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidade Federal de UberlândiaUberlândia, Brazil
| | - José R. Mineo
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidade Federal de UberlândiaUberlândia, Brazil
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22
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Borges IP, Castanheira LE, Barbosa BF, de Souza DLN, da Silva RJ, Mineo JR, Tudini KAY, Rodrigues RS, Ferro EAV, de Melo Rodrigues V. Anti-parasitic effect on Toxoplasma gondii induced by BnSP-7, a Lys49-phospholipase A2 homologue from Bothrops pauloensis venom. Toxicon 2016; 119:84-91. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2016.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2016] [Revised: 05/13/2016] [Accepted: 05/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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23
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Human toxoplasmosis–Searching for novel chemotherapeutics. Biomed Pharmacother 2016; 82:677-84. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2016.05.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2016] [Revised: 05/25/2016] [Accepted: 05/26/2016] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
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Leesombun A, Boonmasawai S, Shimoda N, Nishikawa Y. Effects of Extracts from Thai Piperaceae Plants against Infection with Toxoplasma gondii. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0156116. [PMID: 27213575 PMCID: PMC4877092 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0156116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2016] [Accepted: 05/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Herbal medicines and natural herb extracts are widely used as alternative treatments for various parasitic diseases, and such extracts may also have potential to decrease the side effects of the standard regimen drugs used to treat toxoplasmosis (sulfadiazine-pyrimethamine combination). We evaluated how effective the Thai piperaceae plants Piper betle, P. nigrum and P. sarmentosum are against Toxoplasma gondii infection in vitro and in vivo. Individually, we extracted the piperaceae plants with ethanol, passed them through a rotary evaporator and then lyophilized them to obtain crude extracts for each one. The in vitro study indicated that the P. betle extract was the most effective extract at inhibiting parasite growth in HFF cells (IC50 on RH-GFP: 23.2 μg/mL, IC50 on PLK-GFP: 21.4 μg/mL). Furthermore, treatment of experimental mice with the P. betle extract for 7 days after infection with 1,000 tachyzoites of the T. gondii PLK strain increased their survival (survival rates: 100% in 400 mg/kg-treated, 83.3% in 100 mg/kg-treated, 33.3% in 25 mg/kg-treated, 33.3% in untreated mice). Furthermore, treatment with 400 mg/kg of the P. betle extract resulted in 100% mouse survival following infection with 100,000 tachyzoites. The present study shows that P. betle extract has the potential to act as a medical plant for the treatment of toxoplasmosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arpron Leesombun
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080–8555, Japan
| | - Sookruetai Boonmasawai
- Department of Preclinic and Applied Animal Science, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Mahidol University, 999 Phutthamonthon Sai 4 Road Salaya, Phutthamonthon Nakhonpathom 73170, Thailand
| | - Naomi Shimoda
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080–8555, Japan
| | - Yoshifumi Nishikawa
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080–8555, Japan
- * E-mail:
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Antiparasitic effects of oxymatrine and matrine against Toxoplasma gondii in vitro and in vivo. Exp Parasitol 2016; 165:95-102. [PMID: 26993085 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2016.03.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2015] [Revised: 02/07/2016] [Accepted: 03/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is an important pathogen which can causes serious public health problems. Since the current therapeutic drugs for toxoplasmosis present serious host toxicity, research on effective and new substances of relatively low toxicity is urgently needed. This study was carried out to evaluate the anti-parasitic effect of oxymatrine (OM) and matrine (ME) against T. gondii in vitro and in vivo. In our study, the anti-T. gondii activities of ME and OM were evaluated in vitro using cell counting kit-8 assay, morphological observation and trypan blue exclusion assay. In vivo, mice were sacrificed four days post-infection and ascites were drawn out to determine the extent of tachyzoite proliferation. Viscera indexes and liver biochemical parameters, such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA), were examined to evaluate the toxicity of compounds to mice. As a result, OM and ME showed anti-T. gondii activity but low selectivity toxicity to HeLa cells. Both compounds also significantly decreased the number of tachyzoites in peritoneal cavity and recovered the levels of ALT, AST, GSH and MDA in liver. Moreover, the mice treated with OM or ME achieved better results in viscera index and survival rate than that of spiramycin. These results suggest that OM and ME are likely the sources of new drugs for toxoplasmosis, and further studies will be necessary to compare the efficacy of drug combination, as well as identify its action of mechanism.
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Oliveira CBS, Meurer YSR, Medeiros TL, Pohlit AM, Silva MV, Mineo TWP, Andrade-Neto VF. Anti-Toxoplasma Activity of Estragole and Thymol in Murine Models of Congenital and Noncongenital Toxoplasmosis. J Parasitol 2016; 102:369-76. [PMID: 26836848 DOI: 10.1645/15-848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is caused by Toxoplasma gondii , an obligatory intracellular protozoan. Normally benign, T. gondii infections can cause devastating disease in immunosuppressed patients and through congenital infection of newborn babies. Few prophylactic and therapeutic drugs are available to treat these infections. The goal of the present study was to assess the anti-Toxoplasma effects in a congenital and noncongenital model of toxoplasmosis (using ME49 strain), besides assessing immunological changes, in vitro cytotoxicity, and in vivo acute toxicity of commercial estragole and thymol. The congenital experimental model was used with intermediate stages of maternal infection. The serum levels of immunoglobulin (Ig)M, IgG, interleukin (IL)-10, IL-12, and interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) were quantified from infected and treated C57Bl/6 mice. Estragole and thymol respectively exhibited low to moderate in vivo toxicity and cytotoxicity. Animals treated with estragole showed high IFN-γ and strong type 1 helper T cell response. Both compounds were active against T. gondii ME49 strain. Furthermore, orally administered estragole in infected pregnant mice improved the weight of offspring compared with untreated controls. Subcutaneous administration of both compounds also increased the weight of mouse offspring born to infected mothers, compared with untreated controls. Estragole and thymol display important anti-Toxoplasma activity. Further studies are needed to elucidate the mechanism of action of these compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio B S Oliveira
- * Laboratory of Malaria and Toxoplasmosis Biology/LABMAT, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Bioscience Center, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Av. Salgado Filho, s/n, Lagoa Nova, Natal/RN, CEP 59000-000, Brazil
| | - Ywlliane S R Meurer
- * Laboratory of Malaria and Toxoplasmosis Biology/LABMAT, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Bioscience Center, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Av. Salgado Filho, s/n, Lagoa Nova, Natal/RN, CEP 59000-000, Brazil
| | - Thales L Medeiros
- * Laboratory of Malaria and Toxoplasmosis Biology/LABMAT, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Bioscience Center, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Av. Salgado Filho, s/n, Lagoa Nova, Natal/RN, CEP 59000-000, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Valter F Andrade-Neto
- * Laboratory of Malaria and Toxoplasmosis Biology/LABMAT, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Bioscience Center, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Av. Salgado Filho, s/n, Lagoa Nova, Natal/RN, CEP 59000-000, Brazil
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Derda M, Hadaś E, Cholewiński M, Skrzypczak Ł, Grzondziel A, Wojtkowiak-Giera A. Artemisia annua L. as a plant with potential use in the treatment of acanthamoebiasis. Parasitol Res 2016; 115:1635-9. [PMID: 26782959 PMCID: PMC4799240 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-016-4902-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2015] [Accepted: 01/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
The treatment of acanthamoebiasis is a great problem. Most cerebral invasions end with death, and the treatment of ocular invasions is usually long-lasting and not very effective. Numerous plant extracts and substances isolated from plants, which are effective against trophozoites or cysts, have been studied in the treatment of acanthamoebiasis. However, no agents that are simultaneously effective against both developing forms of amoebae have been discovered yet. It seems that such a plant which fulfils both tasks is Artemisia annua L. Our studies showed that water, alcohol and chloroform extracts from the herb A. annua L. can be applied in general and local treatment or in combined therapy with antibiotics in the treatment of acanthamoebiasis. Extracts from this plant show not only in vitro but also in vivo effects. Studies carried out on experimental animals infected with amoebae show that the application of these extracts significantly prolongs the survival of the animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Derda
- Department of Biology and Medical Parasitology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 10 Fredry Street, 61-701, Poznan, Poland.
| | - Edward Hadaś
- Department of Biology and Medical Parasitology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 10 Fredry Street, 61-701, Poznan, Poland
| | - Marcin Cholewiński
- Department of Biology and Medical Parasitology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 10 Fredry Street, 61-701, Poznan, Poland
| | - Łukasz Skrzypczak
- Department of Biology and Medical Parasitology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 10 Fredry Street, 61-701, Poznan, Poland
| | - Anna Grzondziel
- Department of Biology and Medical Parasitology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 10 Fredry Street, 61-701, Poznan, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Wojtkowiak-Giera
- Department of Biology and Medical Parasitology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 10 Fredry Street, 61-701, Poznan, Poland
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Portes JA, Souza TG, dos Santos TAT, da Silva LLR, Ribeiro TP, Pereira MD, Horn A, Fernandes C, DaMatta RA, de Souza W, Seabra SH. Reduction of Toxoplasma gondii Development Due to Inhibition of Parasite Antioxidant Enzymes by a Dinuclear Iron(III) Compound. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2015; 59:7374-86. [PMID: 26392498 PMCID: PMC4649245 DOI: 10.1128/aac.00057-15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2015] [Accepted: 07/22/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii, the causative agent of toxoplasmosis, is an obligate intracellular protozoan that can infect a wide range of vertebrate cells. Here, we describe the cytotoxic effects of the dinuclear iron compound [Fe(HPCINOL)(SO4)]2-μ-oxo, in which HPCINOL is the ligand 1-(bis-pyridin-2-ylmethyl-amino)-3-chloropropan-2-ol, on T. gondii infecting LLC-MK2 host cells. This compound was not toxic to LLC-MK2 cells at concentrations of up to 200 μM but was very active against the parasite, with a 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 3.6 μM after 48 h of treatment. Cyst formation was observed after treatment, as indicated by the appearance of a cyst wall, Dolichos biflorus lectin staining, and scanning and transmission electron microscopy characteristics. Ultrastructural changes were also seen in T. gondii, including membrane blebs and clefts in the cytoplasm, with inclusions similar to amylopectin granules, which are typically found in bradyzoites. An analysis of the cell death pathways in the parasite revealed that the compound caused a combination of apoptosis and autophagy. Fluorescence assays demonstrated that the redox environment in the LLC-MK2 cells becomes oxidant in the presence of the iron compound. Furthermore, a reduction in superoxide dismutase and catalase activities in the treated parasites and the presence of reactive oxygen species within the parasitophorous vacuoles were observed, indicating an impaired protozoan response against these radicals. These findings suggest that this compound disturbs the redox equilibrium of T. gondii, inducing cystogenesis and parasite death.
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Affiliation(s)
- J A Portes
- Laboratório de Tecnologia em Cultura de Células, Centro Universitário Estadual da Zona Oeste (UEZO), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil Laboratório de Ultraestrutura Celular Hertha Meyer, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - T G Souza
- Laboratório de Tecnologia em Cultura de Células, Centro Universitário Estadual da Zona Oeste (UEZO), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - T A T dos Santos
- Laboratório de Tecnologia em Cultura de Células, Centro Universitário Estadual da Zona Oeste (UEZO), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil Laboratório de Biologia Celular e Tecidual, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro (UENF), Campos dos Goytacazes, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - L L R da Silva
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular e Tecidual, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro (UENF), Campos dos Goytacazes, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - T P Ribeiro
- Laboratório de Citotoxicidade e Genotoxicidade, Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, UFRJ, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - M D Pereira
- Laboratório de Citotoxicidade e Genotoxicidade, Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, UFRJ, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - A Horn
- Laboratório de Ciências Químicas, Centro de Ciência e Tecnologia, UENF, Campos dos Goytacazes, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - C Fernandes
- Laboratório de Ciências Químicas, Centro de Ciência e Tecnologia, UENF, Campos dos Goytacazes, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - R A DaMatta
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular e Tecidual, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro (UENF), Campos dos Goytacazes, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - W de Souza
- Laboratório de Ultraestrutura Celular Hertha Meyer, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem (INBEB) and Centro Nacional de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem (CENABIO), UFRJ, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil Instituto Nacional de Metrologia, Qualidade e Tecnologia (Inmetro), Duque de Caxias, RJ, Brazil
| | - S H Seabra
- Laboratório de Tecnologia em Cultura de Células, Centro Universitário Estadual da Zona Oeste (UEZO), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
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Silva MF, Mota CM, Miranda VDS, Cunha ADO, Silva MC, Naves KSC, de Oliveira F, Silva DADO, Mineo TWP, Santiago FM. Biological and Enzymatic Characterization of Proteases from Crude Venom of the Ant Odontomachus bauri. Toxins (Basel) 2015; 7:5114-28. [PMID: 26633501 PMCID: PMC4690119 DOI: 10.3390/toxins7124869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2015] [Revised: 09/30/2015] [Accepted: 10/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Hymenoptera venoms constitute an interesting source of natural toxins that may lead to the development of novel therapeutic agents. The present study investigated the enzymatic and biological characteristics of the crude venom of the ant Odontomachus bauri. Its crude venom presents several protein bands, with higher staining for six proteins with gelatinolytic activity (17, 20, 26, 29, 43 and 48 kDa). The crude venom showed high proteolytic activity on azocasein at optimal pH 8.0 and 37 °C. In the presence of protease inhibitors as aprotinin, leupeptin and EDTA, the azocaseinolytic activity was reduced by 45%, 29% and 9%, respectively, suggesting that the enzymes present in the crude venom belong to the three classes of proteases, with the serine proteases in greater intensity. The crude venom degraded the fibrinogen α-chain faster than the β-chain, while the fibrinogen γ-chain remained unchanged. In biological assays, O. bauri venom showed hemolytic and coagulant activity in vitro, and defibrinating activity in vivo. In addition, the venom showed antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli as well as antiparasitic activity on Toxoplasma gondii infection in vitro. In that sense, this study sheds perspectives for pharmacological applications of O. bauri venom enzymes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Ferreira Silva
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Laboratory of Immunoparasitology "Dr. Mario Endsfeldz Camargo", Federal University of Uberlândia, Av. Pará 1720, Uberlândia 38400-902, Brazil.
| | - Caroline Martins Mota
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Laboratory of Immunoparasitology "Dr. Mario Endsfeldz Camargo", Federal University of Uberlândia, Av. Pará 1720, Uberlândia 38400-902, Brazil.
| | - Vanessa dos Santos Miranda
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Laboratory of Immunoparasitology "Dr. Mario Endsfeldz Camargo", Federal University of Uberlândia, Av. Pará 1720, Uberlândia 38400-902, Brazil.
| | - Amanda de Oliveira Cunha
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Laboratory of Immunoparasitology "Dr. Mario Endsfeldz Camargo", Federal University of Uberlândia, Av. Pará 1720, Uberlândia 38400-902, Brazil.
| | - Maraísa Cristina Silva
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Laboratory of Immunoparasitology "Dr. Mario Endsfeldz Camargo", Federal University of Uberlândia, Av. Pará 1720, Uberlândia 38400-902, Brazil.
| | - Karinne Spirandelli Carvalho Naves
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Laboratory of Clinical Bacteriology, Federal University of Uberlândia, Av. Pará 1720, Uberlândia 38400-902, Brazil.
| | - Fábio de Oliveira
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Laboratory of Biophysics, Federal University of Uberlândia, Av. Pará 1720, Uberlândia 38400-902, Brazil.
- National Institute in Science and Technology in Nanobiopharmaceutics (NanoBiofar), Belo Horizonte-MG 31270-901, Brazil.
| | - Deise Aparecida de Oliveira Silva
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Laboratory of Immunoparasitology "Dr. Mario Endsfeldz Camargo", Federal University of Uberlândia, Av. Pará 1720, Uberlândia 38400-902, Brazil.
| | - Tiago Wilson Patriarca Mineo
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Laboratory of Immunoparasitology "Dr. Mario Endsfeldz Camargo", Federal University of Uberlândia, Av. Pará 1720, Uberlândia 38400-902, Brazil.
| | - Fernanda Maria Santiago
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Laboratory of Immunoparasitology "Dr. Mario Endsfeldz Camargo", Federal University of Uberlândia, Av. Pará 1720, Uberlândia 38400-902, Brazil.
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Dzitko K, Grzybowski MM, Pawełczyk J, Dziadek B, Gatkowska J, Stączek P, Długońska H. Phytoecdysteroids as modulators of the Toxoplasma gondii growth rate in human and mouse cells. Parasit Vectors 2015; 8:422. [PMID: 26272689 PMCID: PMC4536731 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-015-1019-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2014] [Accepted: 07/27/2015] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Searching for new effective drugs against human and animal toxoplasmosis we decided to test the anti-Toxoplasma potential of phytoecdysteroids (α-ecdysone and 20-hydroxyecdysone) characterized by the pleiotropic activity on mammalian organisms including the enhancement of host’s anti-parasitic defence. This objective was accomplished by the in vitro evaluation of T. gondii growth in phytoecdysteroid-treated immunocompetent cells of selected hosts: humans and two strains of inbred mice with genetically determined different susceptibility to toxoplasmosis. Methods Peripheral mononuclear blood cells were isolated from Toxoplasma-positive and Toxoplasma-negative women (N = 43) and men (N = 21). Non-infected mice (C57BL/6, N = 10 and BALB/c, N = 14) and mice (BALB/c, N = 10) challenged intraperitoneally with 5 tissue cysts of the T. gondii DX strain were also used in this study as a source of splenocytes. The effects of phytoecdysteroids on the viability of human PBMC and mouse splenocytes were evaluated using the MTT assay. The influence of phytoecdysteroids on PBMCs, splenocytes and T. gondii proliferation was measured using radioactivity tests (the level of 3[H] uracil incorporation by toxoplasms or 3[H] thymidine by PBMCs and splenocytes), which was confirmed by quantitative Real-Time PCR. Statistical analysis was performed using SigmaStat 3.5 (Systat Software GmbH). The best-fit IC50 curves were plotted using GraphPad Prism 6.0 (GraphPad Software, Inc.). Results Our results showed that phytoecdysteroids promote the multiplication of Toxoplasma in cultures of human or murine immune cells, in contrast to another apicomplexan parasite, Babesia gibsoni. Additionally, the tested phytoecdysteroids did not stimulate the in vitro secretion of the essential protective cytokines (IFN-γ, IL-2 and IL-10), neither by human nor by murine immune cells involved in an effective intracellular killing of the parasite. Conclusions Judging by the effect of phytoecdysteroids on the T. gondii proliferation, demonstrated for the first time in this study, it seems that these compounds should not be taken into consideration as potential medications to treat toxoplasmosis. Phytoecdysteroids included in the food are most likely not harmful for human or animal health but certain nutrients containing ecdysteroids at high concentrations could promote T. gondii proliferation in chronically infected and immunocompromised individuals. In order to assess the real impact of ecdysteroids on the course of natural T. gondii invasion, in vivo research should be undertaken because it cannot be ruled out that the in vivo effect will be different than the in vitro one. However, taking into account the possible stimulating effect of ecdysteroids on some opportunistic parasites (such as Toxoplasma or Strongyloides) further studies are necessary and should focus on the mechanisms of their action, which directly or indirectly enhance the parasite growth. Since ecdysteroids are considered as potential drugs, it is essential to determine their effect on various parasitic pathogens, which may infect the host at the same time, especially in immunocompromised individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Dzitko
- Department of Immunoparasitology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Łódź, Banacha 12/16, 90-237, Łódź, Poland.
| | - Marcin Mikołaj Grzybowski
- Department of Immunoparasitology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Łódź, Banacha 12/16, 90-237, Łódź, Poland.
| | - Jakub Pawełczyk
- Institute of Medical Biology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Lodowa 106, 93-232, Łódź, Poland.
| | - Bożena Dziadek
- Department of Immunoparasitology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Łódź, Banacha 12/16, 90-237, Łódź, Poland.
| | - Justyna Gatkowska
- Department of Immunoparasitology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Łódź, Banacha 12/16, 90-237, Łódź, Poland.
| | - Paweł Stączek
- Department of Microbial Genetics, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Łódź, Banacha 12/16, 90-237, Łódź, Poland.
| | - Henryka Długońska
- Department of Immunoparasitology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Łódź, Banacha 12/16, 90-237, Łódź, Poland.
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Mota CM, Ferreira MD, Costa LF, Barros PSC, Silva MV, Santiago FM, Mineo JR, Mineo TWP. Fluorescent ester dye-based assays for the in vitro measurement of Neospora caninum proliferation. Vet Parasitol 2014; 205:14-9. [PMID: 25095733 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2014.07.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2013] [Revised: 07/11/2014] [Accepted: 07/16/2014] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Techniques for the measurement of parasite loads in different experimental models have evolved throughout the years. The quantification of stained slides using regular cytological stains is currently the most common technique. However, this modality of evaluation is labor-intensive, and the interpretation of the results is subjective because the successes of the assays mainly rely on the abilities of the professionals involved. Moreover, the novel genetic manipulation techniques that are commonly applied for closely related Toxoplasma gondii have not yet been developed for Neospora caninum. Thus, we aimed to develop a simple protocol for parasite quantification using pre-stained N. caninum tachyzoites and fluorescent probes based on ester compounds (i.e., CFSE and DDAO). For this purpose, we employed a quantification procedure based on flow cytometry analysis. Pre-stained parasites were also examined with a fluorescent microscope, which revealed that both dyes were detectable. Direct comparison of the numbers of CFSE+ and DDAO+ cells to the values obtained with classical cytology techniques yielded statistically comparable results that also accorded with genomic DNA amplification results. Although the fluorescence emitted by DDAO was more intense and provided better discrimination between the populations of parasitized cells, CFSE+ tachyzoites were detected for several days. In conclusion, this study describes a simple, fast, low-cost and reproducible protocol for N. caninum quantification that is based on parasite pre-staining with fluorescent ester-based probes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline M Mota
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia "Dr. Mário Endsfeldz Camargo", Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Av. Amazonas s/n, Bloco 4C, Sala 4C01, Campus Umuarama, 38405-320 Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Marcela D Ferreira
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia "Dr. Mário Endsfeldz Camargo", Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Av. Amazonas s/n, Bloco 4C, Sala 4C01, Campus Umuarama, 38405-320 Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Lourenço F Costa
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia "Dr. Mário Endsfeldz Camargo", Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Av. Amazonas s/n, Bloco 4C, Sala 4C01, Campus Umuarama, 38405-320 Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Patrício S C Barros
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia "Dr. Mário Endsfeldz Camargo", Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Av. Amazonas s/n, Bloco 4C, Sala 4C01, Campus Umuarama, 38405-320 Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Murilo V Silva
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia "Dr. Mário Endsfeldz Camargo", Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Av. Amazonas s/n, Bloco 4C, Sala 4C01, Campus Umuarama, 38405-320 Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Fernanda M Santiago
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia "Dr. Mário Endsfeldz Camargo", Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Av. Amazonas s/n, Bloco 4C, Sala 4C01, Campus Umuarama, 38405-320 Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - José R Mineo
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia "Dr. Mário Endsfeldz Camargo", Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Av. Amazonas s/n, Bloco 4C, Sala 4C01, Campus Umuarama, 38405-320 Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Tiago W P Mineo
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia "Dr. Mário Endsfeldz Camargo", Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Av. Amazonas s/n, Bloco 4C, Sala 4C01, Campus Umuarama, 38405-320 Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
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Dzitko K, Paneth A, Plech T, Pawełczyk J, Stączek P, Stefańska J, Paneth P. 1,4-Disubstituted thiosemicarbazide derivatives are potent inhibitors of Toxoplasma gondii proliferation. Molecules 2014; 19:9926-43. [PMID: 25010466 PMCID: PMC6290556 DOI: 10.3390/molecules19079926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2014] [Revised: 06/27/2014] [Accepted: 06/27/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
A series of 4-arylthiosemicarbazides substituted at the N1 position with a 5-membered heteroaryl ring was synthesized and evaluated in vitro for T. gondii inhibition proliferation and host cell cytotoxicity. At non-toxic concentrations for the host cells all studied compounds displayed excellent anti-parasitic effects when compared to sulfadiazine, indicating a high selectivity of their anti-T. gondii activity. The differences in bioactivity investigated by DFT calculations suggest that the inhibitory activity of 4-aryl-thiosemicarbazides towards T. gondii proliferation is connected with the electronic structure of the molecule. Further, these compounds were tested as potential antibacterial agents. No growth-inhibiting effect on any of the test microorganisms was observed for all the compounds, even at high concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Dzitko
- Department of Immunoparasitology, University of Lodz, Banacha 12/16, 90-237 Lodz, Poland.
| | - Agata Paneth
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Medical University, Chodźki 4a, 20-093 Lublin, Poland.
| | - Tomasz Plech
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Medical University, Chodźki 4a, 20-093 Lublin, Poland.
| | - Jakub Pawełczyk
- Institute for Medical Biology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Lodowa 106, 93-232 Łódź, Poland.
| | - Paweł Stączek
- Department of Genetics of Microorganisms, University of Lodz, Banacha 12/16, 90-237 Lodz, Poland.
| | - Joanna Stefańska
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Medical University of Warsaw, Oczki 3, 02-007 Warszawa, Poland.
| | - Piotr Paneth
- Institute of Applied Radiation Chemistry, Technical University of Lodz, Zeromskiego 116, 90-924 Lodz, Poland.
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Oliveira CBS, Meurer YSR, Oliveira MG, Medeiros WMTQ, Silva FON, Brito ACF, Pontes DDL, Andrade-Neto VF. Comparative study on the antioxidant and anti-Toxoplasma activities of vanillin and its resorcinarene derivative. Molecules 2014; 19:5898-912. [PMID: 24810805 PMCID: PMC6271522 DOI: 10.3390/molecules19055898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2014] [Revised: 04/26/2014] [Accepted: 04/28/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
A resorcinarene derivative of vanillin, resvan, was synthesized and characterized by spectroscopic techniques. We measured the cytotoxicity (in vivo and in vitro), antioxidant and anti-Toxoplasma activities of vanillin and the resorcinarene compound. Here we show that vanillin has a dose-dependent behavior with IC50 of 645 µg/mL through an in vitro cytotoxicity assay. However, we could not observe any cytotoxic response at higher concentrations of resvan (IC50 > 2,000 µg/mL). The in vivo acute toxicity assays of vanillin and resvan exhibited a significant safety margin indicated by a lack of systemic and behavioral toxicity up to 300 mg/kg during the first 30 min, 24 h or 14 days after administration. The obtained derivative showed greater antioxidative activity (84.9%) when comparing to vanillin (19.4%) at 1,000 μg/mL. In addition, vanillin presents anti-Toxoplasma activity, while resvan does not show that feature. Our findings suggest that this particular derivative has an efficient antioxidant activity and a negligible cytotoxic effect, making it a potential target for further biological investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio B S Oliveira
- Laboratory of Malaria and Toxoplasmosis Biology/LABMAT, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Bioscience Center, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Av. Salgado Filho, s/n, Lagoa Nova, Natal/RN, CEP 59000-000, Brazil
| | - Ywlliane S R Meurer
- Memory Studies Laboratory, Physiology Department, Bioscience Center, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Av. Salgado Filho, s/n, Lagoa Nova, Natal/RN, CEP 59000-000, Brazil
| | - Marianne G Oliveira
- Laboratory of Malaria and Toxoplasmosis Biology/LABMAT, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Bioscience Center, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Av. Salgado Filho, s/n, Lagoa Nova, Natal/RN, CEP 59000-000, Brazil
| | - Wendy M T Q Medeiros
- Laboratory of Coordination Chemistry and Polymers, Institute of Chemistry, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Av. Salgado Filho, s/n, Lagoa Nova, Natal/RN, CEP 59000-000, Brazil
| | - Francisco O N Silva
- Laboratory of Coordination Chemistry and Polymers, Institute of Chemistry, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Av. Salgado Filho, s/n, Lagoa Nova, Natal/RN, CEP 59000-000, Brazil
| | - Ana C F Brito
- Laboratory of Coordination Chemistry and Polymers, Institute of Chemistry, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Av. Salgado Filho, s/n, Lagoa Nova, Natal/RN, CEP 59000-000, Brazil
| | - Daniel de L Pontes
- Laboratory of Coordination Chemistry and Polymers, Institute of Chemistry, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Av. Salgado Filho, s/n, Lagoa Nova, Natal/RN, CEP 59000-000, Brazil
| | - Valter F Andrade-Neto
- Laboratory of Malaria and Toxoplasmosis Biology/LABMAT, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Bioscience Center, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Av. Salgado Filho, s/n, Lagoa Nova, Natal/RN, CEP 59000-000, Brazil.
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Golami S, Rahimi-Esboei B, Mousavi P, Marhaba Z, Youssefi MR, Rahimi MT. Survey on efficacy of chloroformic extract of Artemisia annua against Giardia lamblia trophozoite and cyst in vitro. J Parasit Dis 2014; 40:88-92. [PMID: 27065604 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-014-0453-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2013] [Accepted: 02/20/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Giardiasis is a parasitic cosmopolitan disease that the rate of infection in developing countries is considerable. This infection directly is associated with poor hygienic conditions, poor water quality control, and overcrowding. Reinfection and drug resistance are two major problems in endemic areas. Recently, researchers are concentrating on herbal drugs as a proper solution. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to survey on efficacy of chloroformic extract of Artemisia annua against Giardia lamblia trophozoite and cyst in vitro. G. lamblia cysts were prepared from faces of giardiasis patients from different hospitals of Mazandaran Medical University. Four concentrations (1, 10, 50 and 100 mg/ml) of chloroformic extract of A. annua were utilized for 1, 5, 30, 60 and 180 min. Viability of G. lamblia cysts was confirmed by 0.1 % Eosin staining. Cyst and trophozoite contact (intermix) of G. lamblia with extract of A. annua with variant concentrations (1, 10, 50 and 100 mg/ml) after 1 and 180 min caused following cyst and trophozoite elimination rates: (67, 69, 71 and 73 %), (65, 67, 67 and 72 %), (94, 96, 97 and 99 %) and (100, 100, 100 and 100 %), respectively. Authors from the current investigation draw a conclusion that chloroformic extract of A. annua has the ability to eliminate G. lamblia cysts and trophozoites in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shirzad Golami
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Bahman Rahimi-Esboei
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Parisa Mousavi
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Marhaba
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Youssefi
- Departments of Veterinary Parasitology, Islamic Azad University, Babol Branch, Babol, Iran
| | - Mohammad Taghi Rahimi
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
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35
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van der Kooy F, Sullivan SE. The complexity of medicinal plants: the traditional Artemisia annua formulation, current status and future perspectives. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2013; 150:1-13. [PMID: 23973523 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2013.08.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2013] [Revised: 08/01/2013] [Accepted: 08/06/2013] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Artemisia annua has a long tradition of use for the treatment of intermittent fevers which we now relate to malarial infections. The active principle artemisinin has been isolated from Artemisia annua and today forms the backbone of the global fight against malaria. The traditionally prepared Artemisia annua formulation is however still being used on a global scale for the treatment of malaria, and it is claimed that its action is superior to the single purified drug. Artemisia annua is therefore on the forefront of the heated debate between the single drug-single target approach of western based medicine and the holistic approach of traditional medicinal systems. This review aims to highlight the complexities we face in the general study of medicinal plants at the hand of three levels of complexity. These levels consist of (a) the chemistry of the medicinal plant, (b) the influence of the preparation method on the chemistry of the final formulation and (c) the influence of metabolism on the chemistry of the formulation. We also aim to provide an up-to-date report on all scientific work that has been conducted and published in English on the traditional formulation of Artemisia annua. MATERIALS AND METHODS All English scientific literatures published until the first quarter of 2013 were retrieved from well-known scientific databases (Scifinder scholar, Web of Science, PubMed, Google scholar) and Non-governmental organisations active in this field were consulted. A draft version of this manuscript was sent to the African office of the World Health Organisation (WHO), and to the Non-governmental organisations "Action Médicine Naturelle" (ANAMED) and "Iwerliewen fir bedreete Volleker - Réseau belgo-luxembourgeois pour la valorisation des herbes médicinales" (IFBV-BELHERB) for comments. RESULTS Very little scientific work has been conducted on the Artemisia annua formulation. The available literature contains many discrepancies which are unfortunately selectively being used by the two different sides in this debate to further their arguments. On one side of the argument we have the low content of artemisinin in Artemisia annua, the low bioavailability of artemisinin when the traditional formulation is administered and the high levels of recrudescence, which are being emphasised, while on the other side the possible role of synergism and prodrugs are being highlighted. This review reports that there are still too many gaps in our existing knowledge to provide conclusive evidence for either of the two sides of the argument. CONCLUSIONS Much more research is needed into Artemisia annua formulations. We stand to gain invaluable knowledge into how traditional medicinal plant works, discover the identities of new active compounds (which can be used against other diseases such as HIV, diarrhoea, and cancer) and possibly bring both sides of this debate closer together.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank van der Kooy
- Centre for Complementary Medicine Research, University of Western Sydney, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia.
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36
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Abstract
We induced sulfadiazine resistance in two sulfadiazine sensitive strains of Toxoplasma gondii, RH (Type I) and ME-49 (Type II) in vitro by using drug pressure. At first, sulfadiazine susceptibility of the two sensitive strains and two naturally resistant strains of T. gondii was evaluated on Vero cells using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The IC(50) values of sulfadiazine were 77 μg/mL for RH, 51 μg/mL for ME-49 and higher than 1000 μg/mL for the two natural resistant strains. Secondly, induced resistance of the strains by gradually increase sulfadiazine concentration was verified by this test, which resulted IC(50) values at higher than 1000 μg/mL. In conclusion we developed in vitro two sulfadiazine resistant strains called RH-R(SDZ) and ME-49-R(SDZ). These strains resistant to sulfadiazine would be useful to characterize resistance mechanisms to sulfadiazine.
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Silva LFRE, Magalhães PMD, Costa MRF, Alecrim MDGC, Chaves FCM, Hidalgo ADF, Pohlit AM, Vieira PPR. In vitro susceptibility of Plasmodium falciparum Welch field isolates to infusions prepared from Artemisia annua L. cultivated in the Brazilian Amazon. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2012; 107:859-66. [DOI: 10.1590/s0074-02762012000700004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2012] [Accepted: 08/08/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Luiz Francisco Rocha e Silva
- Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas da Amazônia, Brasil; Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Brasil; Centro Universitário do Norte, Brasil
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Enrofloxacin is able to control Toxoplasma gondii infection in both in vitro and in vivo experimental models. Vet Parasitol 2012; 187:44-52. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2011.12.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2011] [Revised: 12/23/2011] [Accepted: 12/30/2011] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Useo R, Husson F, De Coninck J, Khaldi S, Gervais P. A new alternative in vitro method for quantification of Toxoplasma gondii infectivity. J Parasitol 2011; 98:299-303. [PMID: 22010815 DOI: 10.1645/ge-2873.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
An in vitro method to determine the infectious potency of an unknown suspension of the protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii based on kinetics of host cells lysis was developed. Mic1-3KO a mutant strain of T. gondii RH tachyzoites was inoculated in 25-cm² flasks containing a 90% confluent monolayer of human foreskin fibroblasts. Lysis kinetics was monitored for infection ratios ranging from 1∶10⁶ to 1∶10; we defined 10⁶ tachyzoites/ml⁻¹ as the threshold value for parasite egress. Results allowed us to build a calibration curve relating the initial infection ratios to the time needed to reach 10⁶ tachyzoites/ml⁻¹. Finally, we validated the method using a known mixture of dead and live parasites. This method was found to estimate with accuracy the initial ratio of infection of the unknown parasite suspension. This easy-to-use method is reproducible and can be applied to any T. gondii tachyzoite RH strain, genetically modified or not. This method is also suitable for testing promising candidates for an effective live vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romain Useo
- UMR PAM, AgroSup Dijon, Université de Bourgogne, 1 Esplanade Erasme, 21000 Dijon, France
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40
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Flavonoids from Artemisia annua L. as antioxidants and their potential synergism with artemisinin against malaria and cancer. Molecules 2010; 15:3135-70. [PMID: 20657468 PMCID: PMC6263261 DOI: 10.3390/molecules15053135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 267] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2010] [Revised: 04/08/2010] [Accepted: 04/19/2010] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Artemisia annua is currently the only commercial source of the sesquiterpene lactone artemisinin. Since artemisinin was discovered as the active component of A. annua in early 1970s, hundreds of papers have focused on the anti-parasitic effects of artemisinin and its semi-synthetic analogs dihydroartemisinin, artemether, arteether, and artesunate. Artemisinin per se has not been used in mainstream clinical practice due to its poor bioavailability when compared to its analogs. In the past decade, the work with artemisinin-based compounds has expanded to their anti-cancer properties. Although artemisinin is a major bioactive component present in the traditional Chinese herbal preparations (tea), leaf flavonoids, also present in the tea, have shown a variety of biological activities and may synergize the effects of artemisinin against malaria and cancer. However, only a few studies have focused on the potential synergistic effects between flavonoids and artemisinin. The resurgent idea that multi-component drug therapy might be better than monotherapy is illustrated by the recent resolution of the World Health Organization to support artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACT), instead of the previously used monotherapy with artemisinins. In this critical review we will discuss the possibility that artemisinin and its semi-synthetic analogs might become more effective to treat parasitic diseases (such as malaria) and cancer if simultaneously delivered with flavonoids. The flavonoids present in A. annua leaves have been linked to suppression of CYP450 enzymes responsible for altering the absorption and metabolism of artemisinin in the body, but also have been linked to a beneficial immunomodulatory activity in subjects afflicted with parasitic and chronic diseases.
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Costa I, Angeloni M, Santana L, Barbosa B, Silva M, Rodrigues A, Rostkowsa C, Magalhães P, Pena J, Silva D, Mineo J, Ferro E. Azithromycin Inhibits Vertical Transmission of Toxoplasma gondii in Calomys callosus (Rodentia: Cricetidae). Placenta 2009; 30:884-90. [DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2009.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2009] [Revised: 08/03/2009] [Accepted: 08/04/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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