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Meira RDMV, Gomes SLDS, Schaeffer E, Da Silva T, Brito ACDS, Siqueira LM, Inácio JD, Almeida-Amaral EE, Da-Cruz AM, Bezerra-Paiva M, Neves RH, Rodrigues LS, Dutra PML, Costa PRR, da Silva AJM, Da-Silva SAG. Low doses of 3-phenyl-lawsone or meglumine antimoniate delivery by tattooing route are successful in reducing parasite load in cutaneous lesions of Leishmania ( Viannia) braziliensis-infected hamsters. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1025359. [PMID: 36743305 PMCID: PMC9892647 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1025359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Current therapeutic ways adopted for the treatment of leishmaniasis are toxic and expensive including parasite resistance is a growing problem. Given this scenario, it is urgent to explore treatment alternatives for leishmaniasis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of 3-phenyl-lawsone (3-PL) naphthoquinone on Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis infection, both in vitro and in vivo, using two local routes of administration: subcutaneous (higher dose) and tattoo (lower dose). In vitro 3-PL showed low toxicity for macrophages (CC50 >3200 µM/48h) and activity against intracellular amastigotes (IC50 = 193 ± 19 µM/48h) and promastigotes (IC50 = 116 ± 26 µM/72h), in which induced increased ROS generation. Additionally, 3-PL up-regulated the production of cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), monocyte chemotactic protein 1 (MCP-1), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and IL-10 in infected macrophages. However, the anti-amastigote action was independent of nitric oxide production. Treatment of hamsters infected with L. (V.) braziliensis from one week after infection with 3-PL by subcutaneous (25 µg/Kg) or tattooing (2.5 µg/Kg) route, during 3 weeks (3 times/week) or 2 weeks (2 times/week) significantly decreased the parasite load (p<0.001) in the lesion. The reduction of parasite load by 3-PL treatment was comparable to reference drug meglumine antimoniate administered by the same routes (subcutaneous 1mg/Kg and tattoo 0.1mg/Kg). In addition, treatment started from five weeks after infection with 3-PL per tattoo also decreased the parasite load. These results show the anti-leishmanial effect of 3-PL against L. (V.) braziliensis and its efficacy by subcutaneous (higher dose) and tattoo (lower dose) routes. In addition, this study shows that drug delivery by tattooing the lesion allows the use of lower doses than the conventional subcutaneous route, which may support the development of a new therapeutic strategy that can be adopted for leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sara Lins da Silva Gomes
- Laboratório de Catálise Orgânica, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Edgar Schaeffer
- Laboratório de Catálise Orgânica, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Thayssa Da Silva
- Laboratório de Imunofarmacologia Parasitária, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | - Larissa Moreira Siqueira
- Laboratório de Imunofarmacologia Parasitária, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Job Domingos Inácio
- Laboratório de Bioquímica de Tripanosomatídeos, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | - Alda Maria Da-Cruz
- Disciplina de Parasitologia, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil,Laboratório Interdisciplinar de Pesquisas Médicas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Milla Bezerra-Paiva
- Laboratório Interdisciplinar de Pesquisas Médicas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Renata Heisler Neves
- Laboratório de Helmintologia Romero Lascasas Porto, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Luciana Silva Rodrigues
- Laboratório de Imunopatologia, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Silvia Amaral Gonçalves Da-Silva
- Laboratório de Imunofarmacologia Parasitária, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil,*Correspondence: Silvia Amaral Gonçalves Da-Silva,
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2
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Tuon FF, Dantas LR, de Souza RM, Ribeiro VST, Amato VS. Liposomal drug delivery systems for the treatment of leishmaniasis. Parasitol Res 2022; 121:3073-3082. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-022-07659-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
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3
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Febrifugine dihydrochloride as a new oral chemotherapeutic agent against visceral leishmaniasis infection. Exp Parasitol 2022; 236-237:108250. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2022.108250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Revised: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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4
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The anti-Leishmania potential of bioactive compounds derived from naphthoquinones and their possible applications. A systematic review of animal studies. Parasitol Res 2022; 121:1247-1280. [PMID: 35190878 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-022-07455-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
Leishmaniasis affects millions of people worldwide, and available treatments have severe limitations. Natural and derivative products are significant sources of innovative therapeutic agents. Naphthoquinones are natural or synthetic chemical compounds with broad biological activity. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the potential anti-Leishmania activity of bioactive compounds derived from naphthoquinones in animal models. Conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines, two blocks of MeSH terms were assembled: group I, Leishmania OR Leishmaniasis; group II, Atovaquone OR Lapachol OR Beta lapachone OR Naphthoquinones. The search was performed on PubMed, Web of Science, SCOPUS, EMBASE, and Lilacs databases. Twenty-four articles were retrieved and submitted for quality assessment using the SYRCLE critical appraisal tool. The in vivo anti-Leishmania potential of naphthoquinones was evaluated in visceral and cutaneous leishmaniasis using several measurement parameters. Analyzed compounds varied in structure, association with reference drugs, and encapsulation using a drug delivery system. The study design, including treatment protocol, differed between studies. The findings of the studies in this systematic review indicate the anti-Leishmania potential of naphthoquinones in vivo, with different treatment regimens directed against different Leishmania species. The employed drug delivery systems improve the results concerning selectivity, distribution, and required therapeutic dose. The immunomodulatory action was shown to be beneficial to the host, favoring an adequate immune response against infection by Leishmania parasites since it favored Th1 responses. All studies presented a moderate to high risk of bias. These findings suggest that more studies are needed to assess the overall effectiveness and safety of these treatments.
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5
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Varela MT, Amaral M, Romanelli MM, de Castro Levatti EV, Tempone AG, Fernandes JPS. Optimization of physicochemical properties is a strategy to improve drug-likeness associated with activity: novel active and selective compounds against Trypanosoma cruzi. Eur J Pharm Sci 2022; 171:106114. [PMID: 34986415 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2021.106114] [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: 08/19/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Trypanosoma cruzi is the causing agent of Chagas disease, a parasitic infection without efficient treatment for chronic patients. Despite the efforts, no new drugs have been approved for this disease in the last 60 years. Molecular modifications based on a natural product led to the development of a series of compounds (LINS03 series) with promising antitrypanosomal activity, however previous chemometric analysis revealed a significant impact of excessive lipophilicity and low aqueous solubility on potency of amine and amide derivatives. Therefore, this work reports different modifications in the core structure to achieve adequate balance of the physicochemical properties along with biological activity. A set of 34 analogues were designed considering predicted properties related to lipophilicity/hydrosolubility and synthesized to assess their activity and selective toxicity towards the parasite. Results showed that this strategy contributed to improve the drug-likeness of the series while considerable impacts on potency were observed. The rational analysis of the obtained data led to the identification of seven active piperazine amides (28-34, IC50 8.7 to 35.3 µM against intracellular amastigotes), devoid of significant cytotoxicity to mammalian cells. The addition of water-solubilizing groups and privileged substructures such as piperazines improved the physicochemical properties and overall drug-likeness of these compounds, increased potency and maintained selectivity towards the parasite. The obtained results brought important structure-activity relationship (SAR) data and new lead structures for further modifications were identified to achieve improved antitrypanosoma compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina T Varela
- Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Rua São Nicolau 210, 09913-030 Diadema SP, Brazil
| | - Maiara Amaral
- Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 05403-000, Brazil
| | - Maiara M Romanelli
- Centre for Parasitology and Mycology, Instituto Adolfo Lutz, Av. Dr. Arnaldo 351, 01246-000 São Paulo SP, Brazil
| | - Erica V de Castro Levatti
- Centre for Parasitology and Mycology, Instituto Adolfo Lutz, Av. Dr. Arnaldo 351, 01246-000 São Paulo SP, Brazil
| | - Andre G Tempone
- Centre for Parasitology and Mycology, Instituto Adolfo Lutz, Av. Dr. Arnaldo 351, 01246-000 São Paulo SP, Brazil
| | - João Paulo S Fernandes
- Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Rua São Nicolau 210, 09913-030 Diadema SP, Brazil.
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Monteiro LM, Löbenberg R, Barbosa EJ, de Araujo GLB, Sato PK, Kanashiro E, de Araujo Eliodoro RH, Rocha M, de Freitas VLT, Fotaki N, Bou-Chacra NA. Oral administration of buparvaquone nanostructured lipid carrier enables in vivo activity against Leishmania infantum. Eur J Pharm Sci 2021; 169:106097. [PMID: 34910988 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2021.106097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Leishmaniasis, a neglected tropical disease, is prevalent in 98 countries with the occurrence of 1.3 million new cases annually. The conventional therapy for visceral leishmaniasis requires hospitalization due to the severe adverse effects of the drugs, which are administered parenterally. Buparvaquone (BPQ) showed in vitro activity against leishmania parasites; nevertheless, it has failed in vivo tests due to its low aqueous solubility. Though, lipid nanoparticles can overcome this holdback. In this study we tested the hypothesis whether BPQ-NLC shows in vivo activity against L. infantum. Two optimized formulations were prepared (V1: 173.9 ± 1.6 nm, 0.5 mg of BPQ/mL; V2: 232.4 ± 1.6 nm, 1.3 mg of BPQ/mL), both showed increased solubility up to 73.00-fold, and dissolution up to 83.29%, while for the free drug it was only 2.89%. Cytotoxicity test showed their biocompatibility (CC50 >554.4 µM). Besides, the V1 dose of 0.3 mg/kg/day for 10 days reduced the parasite burden in 83.4% ±18.2% (p <0.05) in the liver. BPQ-NLC showed similar leishmanicidal activity compared to miltefosine. Therefore, BPQ-NLC is a promising addition to the limited therapeutic arsenal suitable for leishmaniasis oral administration treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lis Marie Monteiro
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Professor Lineu Prestes Av, 580, Cidade Universitária, 05508-000 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Raimar Löbenberg
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Alberta, 8613 - 114St NW, T6G 2H7, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Eduardo José Barbosa
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Professor Lineu Prestes Av, 580, Cidade Universitária, 05508-000 São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Gabriel Lima Barros de Araujo
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Professor Lineu Prestes Av, 580, Cidade Universitária, 05508-000 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Paula Keiko Sato
- Laboratory of Medical Investigation in Immunology (LIM48), Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Dr. Eneas Carvalho de Aguiar, 470, IMT2, térreo, 05403-000, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Edite Kanashiro
- Laboratory of Medical Investigation in Immunology (LIM48), Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Dr. Eneas Carvalho de Aguiar, 470, IMT2, térreo, 05403-000, São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Seroepidemiology, Cellular, and Molecular Immunology Laboratory - Institute of Tropical Medicine, University of São Paulo, Dr. Enéas de Carvalho Aguiar, 470 - Jardim América, São Paulo, SP, 05403-000, Brazil
| | - Raissa H de Araujo Eliodoro
- Laboratory of Medical Investigation in Immunology (LIM48), Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Dr. Eneas Carvalho de Aguiar, 470, IMT2, térreo, 05403-000, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Mussya Rocha
- Laboratory of Medical Investigation in Immunology (LIM48), Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Dr. Eneas Carvalho de Aguiar, 470, IMT2, térreo, 05403-000, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Vera Lúcia Teixeira de Freitas
- Laboratory of Medical Investigation in Immunology (LIM48), Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Dr. Eneas Carvalho de Aguiar, 470, IMT2, térreo, 05403-000, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Nikoletta Fotaki
- Department of Pharmacy & Pharmacology, University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath, BA2 7AY, United Kingdom
| | - Nádia Araci Bou-Chacra
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Professor Lineu Prestes Av, 580, Cidade Universitária, 05508-000 São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
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7
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In Vitro and In Vivo Antifungal Activity of Buparvaquone against Sporothrix brasiliensis. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2021; 65:e0069921. [PMID: 34152816 DOI: 10.1128/aac.00699-21] [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] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Sporotrichosis has become an important zoonosis in Brazil, and Sporothrix brasiliensis is the primary species transmitted by cats. Improvement of animal treatment will help control and limit the spread and geographic expansion of sporotrichosis. Accordingly, buparvaquone, an antiprotozoal hydroxynaphthoquinone agent marketed as Butalex, was evaluated in vitro and in vivo against feline-borne isolates of S. brasiliensis. Buparvaquone inhibited in vitro fungal growth at concentrations 4-fold lower than itraconazole (the first-choice antifungal used for sporotrichosis) and was 408 times more selective for S. brasiliensis than mammalian cells. Yeasts treated with a subinhibitory concentration of buparvaquone exhibited mitochondrial dysfunction, reactive oxygen species and neutral lipid accumulation, and impaired plasma membranes. Scanning electron microscopy images also revealed buparvaquone altered cell wall integrity and induced cell disruption. In vivo experiments in a Galleria mellonella model revealed that buparvaquone (single dose of 5 mg/kg of body weight) is more effective than itraconazole against infections with S. brasiliensis yeasts. Combined, our results indicate that buparvaquone has a great in vitro and in vivo antifungal activity against S. brasiliensis, revealing the potential application of this drug as an alternative treatment for feline sporotrichosis.
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8
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Gontijo VS, Colombo FA, Ferreira Espuri P, Freitas PGD, Nunes JB, Alves LB, Veloso MP, Alves RB, Freitas RP, Marques MJ. In vivo evaluation of anti-Leishmania activity of alkyltriazoles and alkylphosphocholines by oral route. Exp Parasitol 2021; 226-227:108123. [PMID: 34144040 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2021.108123] [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: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/05/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
The failures in the treatment of leishmaniasis is an increasing problem around the world, especially related to resistance. Thus, we describe the synthesis and in vivo anti-Leishmania activity of alkylphosphocholine and alkyltriazoles; besides, their likely action mechanisms stem from some eventual inhibition of parasite enzymes using computational tools. These compounds were tested in an in vivo hamster model infected with Leishmania Leishmania infantum chagasi. Fifty days after parasite inoculation, the two compounds 12-azidedodecylphosphocholine (3) and 3-(1-(12-fluorododecyl)-1H-1,2,3-triazol-1-yl)propano-1-ol (9), were separately administered once a day as oral suspensions (25 and 12.5 mg/kg/day, respectively) during ten days, and their efficacy was compared to the reference compound pentavalent antimonial Glucantime (GLU). Compound 3 significantly reduced the number of parasites in the spleen (4.93 × 102 amastigotes/g) and liver (4.52 × 103 amastigotes/g). Compound 9 reduced the number of amastigotes in the spleen to 1.30 × 104 and 1.36 × 103 amastigotes/g in the liver. GLU was the most effective overall treatment (7.50 × 101 and 2.28 × 102 amastigotes/g in the spleen and liver, respectively). The high activity levels of these compounds in vivo may stem from their high in vitro leishmanicidal activity and lipophilicity. The in silico absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion studies also showed some anti-Leishmania potential. Compound 9 had more lipophilic characteristics than those of compound 3. In silico studies of the nine enzymes of compounds 3 and 9 showed significant evidence of interactions with nicotimidase and tyrosine aminotransferase, demonstrating possible inhibition enzymes present in L. (L.) infantum chagasi. These compounds could be a promising template for developing a new class of leishmanicidal agents, by oral route, and deserve further investigation to explore different therapeutic regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Silva Gontijo
- Departamento de Química, ICEx, UFMG, Av. Pres. Antônio Carlos, 6627, Pampulha, Belo Horizonte, MG, 31270-901, Brazil.
| | - Fabio Antônio Colombo
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Toxicológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, Rua Gabriel Monteiro da Silva, 700- Centro, 37130-001, Alfenas, MG, Brazil
| | - Patrícia Ferreira Espuri
- Departamento de Patologia e Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, Rua Gabriel Monteiro da Silva, 700- Centro, 37130-001, Alfenas, MG, Brazil
| | - Poliany Graziella de Freitas
- Laboratório de Modelagem Molecular e Simulação Computacional, MolMod-CS, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, Rua Gabriel Monteiro da Silva, 700- Centro, 37130-001, Alfenas, MG, Brazil
| | - Juliana Barbosa Nunes
- Laboratório de Patologia de Moléstias Infecciosas, Departamento de Patologia, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Dr. Arnaldo, 455. Cerqueira César, São Paulo, 01246-903, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Levy Bueno Alves
- Laboratório de Modelagem Molecular e Simulação Computacional, MolMod-CS, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, Rua Gabriel Monteiro da Silva, 700- Centro, 37130-001, Alfenas, MG, Brazil
| | - Márcia Paranho Veloso
- Laboratório de Modelagem Molecular e Simulação Computacional, MolMod-CS, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, Rua Gabriel Monteiro da Silva, 700- Centro, 37130-001, Alfenas, MG, Brazil
| | - Rosemeire Brondi Alves
- Departamento de Química, ICEx, UFMG, Av. Pres. Antônio Carlos, 6627, Pampulha, Belo Horizonte, MG, 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Rossimiriam Pereira Freitas
- Departamento de Química, ICEx, UFMG, Av. Pres. Antônio Carlos, 6627, Pampulha, Belo Horizonte, MG, 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Marcos José Marques
- Departamento de Patologia e Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, Rua Gabriel Monteiro da Silva, 700- Centro, 37130-001, Alfenas, MG, Brazil.
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9
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Thapa R, Mondal S, Riikonen J, Rantanen J, Näkki S, Nissinen T, Närvänen A, Lehto VP. Biogenic nanoporous silicon carrier improves the efficacy of buparvaquone against resistant visceral leishmaniasis. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009533. [PMID: 34185780 PMCID: PMC8274846 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Visceral leishmaniasis is a vector-borne protozoan infection that is fatal if untreated. There is no vaccination against the disease, and the current chemotherapeutic agents are ineffective due to increased resistance and severe side effects. Buparvaquone is a potential drug against the leishmaniases, but it is highly hydrophobic resulting in poor bioavailability and low therapeutic efficacy. Herein, we loaded the drug into silicon nanoparticles produced from barley husk, which is an agricultural residue and widely available. The buparvaquone-loaded nanoparticles were several times more selective to kill the intracellular parasites being non-toxic to macrophages compared to the pure buparvaquone and other conventionally used anti-leishmanial agents. Furthermore, the in vivo results revealed that the intraperitoneally injected buparvaquone-loaded nanoparticles suppressed the parasite burden close to 100%. By contrast, pure buparvaquone suppressed the burden only by 50% with corresponding doses. As the conclusion, the biogenic silicon nanoparticles are promising carriers to significantly improve the therapeutic efficacy and selectivity of buparvaquone against resistant visceral leishmaniasis opening a new avenue for low-cost treatment against this neglected tropical disease threatening especially the poor people in developing nations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rinez Thapa
- Department of Applied Physics, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Subhasish Mondal
- School of Pharmacy, The Neotia University, Sarisa, West Bengal, India
| | - Joakim Riikonen
- Department of Applied Physics, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Jimi Rantanen
- Department of Applied Physics, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Simo Näkki
- Department of Applied Physics, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Tuomo Nissinen
- Department of Applied Physics, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Ale Närvänen
- School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Vesa-Pekka Lehto
- Department of Applied Physics, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
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Varma DM, Redding EA, Bachelder EM, Ainslie KM. Nano- and Microformulations to Advance Therapies for Visceral Leishmaniasis. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2020; 7:1725-1741. [PMID: 33966377 PMCID: PMC10372633 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.0c01132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a deadly, vector-borne, neglected tropical disease endemic to arid parts of the world and is caused by a protozoan parasite of the genus Leishmania. Chemotherapy is the primary treatment for this systemic disease, and multiple potent therapies exist against this intracellular parasite. However, several factors, such as systemic toxicity, high costs, arduous treatment regimen, and rising drug resistance, are barriers for effective therapy against VL. Material-based platforms have the potential to revolutionize chemotherapy for leishmaniasis by imparting a better pharmacokinetic profile and creating patient-friendly routes of administration, while also lowering the risk for drug resistance. This review highlights promising drug delivery strategies and novel therapies that have been evaluated in preclinical models, demonstrating the potential to advance chemotherapy for VL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devika M. Varma
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States
| | - Elizabeth A. Redding
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States
| | - Eric M. Bachelder
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States
| | - Kristy M. Ainslie
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States
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11
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Romanelli MM, da Costa-Silva TA, Cunha-Junior E, Dias Ferreira D, Guerra JM, Galisteo AJ, Pinto EG, Barbosa LRS, Torres-Santos EC, Tempone AG. Sertraline Delivered in Phosphatidylserine Liposomes Is Effective in an Experimental Model of Visceral Leishmaniasis. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2019; 9:353. [PMID: 31737574 PMCID: PMC6828611 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2019.00353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Liposomes containing phosphatidylserine (PS) has been used for the delivery of drugs into the intramacrophage milieu. Leishmania (L.) infantum parasites live inside macrophages and cause a fatal and neglected viscerotropic disease, with a toxic treatment. Sertraline was studied as a free formulation (SERT) and also entrapped into phosphatidylserine liposomes (LP-SERT) against intracellular amastigotes and in a murine model of visceral leishmaniasis. LP-SERT showed a potent activity against intracellular amastigotes with an EC50 value of 2.5 μM. The in vivo efficacy of SERT demonstrated a therapeutic failure. However, when entrapped into negatively charged liposomes (−58 mV) of 125 nm, it significantly reduced the parasite burden in the mice liver by 89% at 1 mg/kg, reducing the serum levels of the cytokine IL-6 and upregulating the levels of the chemokine MCP-1. Histopathological studies demonstrated the presence of an inflammatory infiltrate with the development of granulomas in the liver, suggesting the resolution of the infection in the treated group. Delivery studies showed fluorescent-labeled LP-SERT in the liver and spleen of mice even after 48 h of administration. This study demonstrates the efficacy of PS liposomes containing sertraline in experimental VL. Considering the urgent need for VL treatments, the repurposing approach of SERT could be a promising alternative.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Edezio Cunha-Junior
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Pavilhão Leonidas Deane, Laboratório de Bioquímica de Tripanosomatídeos, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | | | - Andres Jimenez Galisteo
- Faculdade de Medicina, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Leandro R S Barbosa
- Instituto de Física da Universidade de São Paulo, Cidade Universitária, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Caio Torres-Santos
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Pavilhão Leonidas Deane, Laboratório de Bioquímica de Tripanosomatídeos, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Monteiro LM, Löbenberg R, Fotaki N, de Araújo GLB, Cotrim PC, Bou-Chacra N. Co-delivery of buparvaquone and polymyxin B in a nanostructured lipid carrier for leishmaniasis treatment. J Glob Antimicrob Resist 2019; 18:279-283. [PMID: 31202979 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgar.2019.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2019] [Revised: 06/05/2019] [Accepted: 06/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to describe the preparation and in vitro evaluation of a surface-modified nanostructured lipid carrier (NLC) using chitosan and dextran for co-delivery of buparvaquone (BPQ) and polymyxin B (PB) against leishmaniasis. METHODS The NLC was prepared using high-pressure homogenisation. Polymyxin B binding and surface modification with biopolymers were achieved by electrostatic interaction. In vitro cytotoxicity was assessed in mouse peritoneal macrophages, and leishmanicidal activity in amastigotes of Leishmania infantum. RESULTS The performance attributes of BPQ-NLC, BPQ-NLC-PB[A-] (anionic) and BPQ-NLC-PB[C+] (cationic) were respectively: Z-average 173.9 ± 1.6, 183.8 ± 4.5 and 208.8 ± 2.6 nm; zeta potential -19.6 ± 1.5, -20.1 ± 1.1 and 31.1 ± 0.8 mV; CC50 583.4 ± 0.10, 203.1 ± 0.04 and 5.7 ± 0.06 μM; IC50 229.0 ± 0.04, 145.7 ± 0.04 and 150.5 ± 0.02 nM. The NLC in vitro leishmanicidal activity showed up to 3.1-fold increase when compared with free BPQ (P < 0.05, α = 0.05). CONCLUSIONS The developed NLC proved to be a promising formulation with which to overcome the drawbacks of current leishmaniasis treatment by the co-delivery of two alternative drugs and a macrophage targeting modified surface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lis Marie Monteiro
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Raimar Löbenberg
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Nikoletta Fotaki
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath, United Kingdom
| | | | - Paulo Cesar Cotrim
- Seroepidemiology, Cellular and Molecular Immunology Laboratory - Institute of Tropical Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Nádia Bou-Chacra
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
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13
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Varela MT, Costa-Silva TA, Lago JHG, Tempone AG, Fernandes JPS. Evaluation of the antitrypanosoma activity and SAR study of novel LINS03 derivatives. Bioorg Chem 2019; 89:102996. [PMID: 31132603 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2019.102996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2018] [Revised: 03/25/2019] [Accepted: 05/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Chagas' disease is a parasitic infection caused by Trypanosoma cruzi that is still treated by old and toxic drugs. In the search for novel alternatives, natural sources are an important source for new drug prototypes against T. cruzi to further structural exploitation. A set of natural-based compounds (LINS03) was designed, showing promising antitrypanosoma activity and low cytotoxicity to host cells. In this paper, nine novel LINS03 derivatives were evaluated against T. cruzi trypomastigotes and amastigotes. The selectivity was assessed through cytotoxicity assays using NCTC mammalian cells and calculating the CC50/IC50 ratio. The results showed that compounds 2d and 4c are noteworthy, due their high activity against amastigotes (IC50 13.9 and 5.8 µM) and low cytotoxicity (CC50 107.7 µM and >200 µM, respectively). These compounds did not showed alteration on plasma membrane permeability in a Sytox green model. SAR analysis suggested an ideal balance between hydrosolubility and lipophilicity is necessary to improve the activity, and that insertion of a meta-substituent is detrimental to the activity of the amine derivatives but not to the neutral derivatives, suggesting different mechanisms of actions. The results presented herein are valuable for designing novel compounds with improved activity and selectivity to be applied in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina T Varela
- Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Rua São Nicolau 210, 09913-030 Diadema, SP, Brazil
| | - Thais A Costa-Silva
- Centro de Ciências Naturais e Humanas, Universidade Federal do ABC, Av. dos Estados 5001, 09210-580 Santo André, SP, Brazil
| | - João Henrique G Lago
- Centro de Ciências Naturais e Humanas, Universidade Federal do ABC, Av. dos Estados 5001, 09210-580 Santo André, SP, Brazil
| | - Andre G Tempone
- Centre for Parasitology and Mycology, Instituto Adolfo Lutz, Av. Dr. Arnaldo 351, 01246-000 São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - João Paulo S Fernandes
- Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Rua São Nicolau 210, 09913-030 Diadema, SP, Brazil.
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14
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Pinto EG, Tempone AG. Activity of the antiarrhythmic drug amiodarone against Leishmania ( L.) infantum: an in vitro and in vivo approach. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2018; 24:29. [PMID: 30386379 PMCID: PMC6203271 DOI: 10.1186/s40409-018-0166-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2018] [Accepted: 10/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Considering the high toxicity and limited therapies available for treating visceral leishmaniasis (VL), the drug repositioning approach represents a faster way to deliver new therapies to the market. Methods In this study, we described for the first time the activity of a potent antiarrhythmic, amiodarone (AMD), against L. (L.) infantum and its in vitro and in vivo activity. Results The evaluation against promastigotes has shown that amiodarone presents leishmanicidal effect against the extracellular form, with an IC50 value of 10 μM. The activity was even greater against amastigotes in comparison with promastigotes with an IC50 value of 0.5 μM. The selectivity index in relation to the intracellular form demonstrated that the antiparasitic activity was approximately 56 times higher than its toxicity to mammalian cells. Investigation of the in vivo AMD activity in the L. infantum-infected hamster model showed that 51 days after the initial infection, amiodarone was unable to reduce the parasite burden in the spleen and liver when treated for 10 consecutive days, intraperitoneally, at 50 mg/kg/day, as determined by qPCR. Although not statistically significant, AMD was able to reduce the parasite burden by 20% in the liver when treated for 10 consecutive days, orally, at 100 mg/kg/day; no reduction in the spleen was found by qPCR. Conclusions Our findings may help further drug design studies seeking new AMD derivatives that may provide new candidates with an in vitro selectivity close to or even greater than that observed in the prototype delivering effectiveness in the experimental model of VL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika G Pinto
- 1Wellcome Centre for Anti-Infectives Research, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Andre G Tempone
- 2Centre for Parasitology and Mycology, Instituto Adolfo Lutz, Avenida Dr. Arnaldo, 351, 8°, Andar. Cerqueira César, São Paulo, SP CEP 01246-902 Brazil
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15
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Vasconcelos CI, Varela MT, Torrecilhas AC, Fernandes JPS. Pyrazinoates as antiparasitic agents against Trypanosoma cruzi. Arch Pharm (Weinheim) 2018; 351:e1800190. [PMID: 30298951 DOI: 10.1002/ardp.201800190] [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: 06/25/2018] [Revised: 09/10/2018] [Accepted: 09/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
This work reports a repurposing study of pyrazinoic acid (1) and methyl (2), ethyl (3) and 2-chloroethyl (4) ester derivatives with antimycobacterial activity, in assays against Trypanosoma cruzi. The compounds and benznidazole, the standard antitrypanosoma drug, were evaluated in concentrations ranging from 100 to 6.25 μg/mL. The results showed that compounds 2 and 3 (EC50 = 182 and 447 μM) significantly reduced the infection rate of the parasite into the mammalian cells at 100 μg/mL (p < 0.05) in a similar way to benznidazole. In addition, all the compounds also significantly reduced the number of intracellular parasites (compound 1 at 50 μg/mL, and compounds 2-4 at 100 μg/mL, p < 0.05) in comparison to the control. Compounds 1 and 2 were more effective than benznidazole at 50 μg/mL (p < 0.001). Moreover, compounds 1-4 did not show significant cytotoxicity against THP-1, J774, and HeLa cells (>1000 μM), indicating that they possess considerable selectivity against the parasites. This report represents the first study of such compounds against T. cruzi, indicating the potential of pyrazinoates as antiparasitic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilla I Vasconcelos
- Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Diadema, Brazil
| | - Marina T Varela
- Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Diadema, Brazil
| | - Ana C Torrecilhas
- Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Diadema, Brazil
| | - João P S Fernandes
- Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Diadema, Brazil
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16
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Varela MT, Romaneli MM, Lima ML, Borborema SET, Tempone AG, Fernandes JPS. Antiparasitic activity of new gibbilimbol analogues and SAR analysis through efficiency and statistical methods. Eur J Pharm Sci 2018; 122:31-41. [PMID: 29935351 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2018.06.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2018] [Revised: 06/12/2018] [Accepted: 06/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Chagas' disease and leishmaniasis are parasitic infections enrolled among the neglected tropical diseases, which urge for new treatments. In the search for new chemical entities as prototypes, gibbilimbols A/B have shown antiparasitic activity against Trypanosoma cruzi and Leishmania infantum, and then a set of analogues (LINS03 series) of this natural product were synthesized and evaluated in vitro against the parasites. In the present paper we reported five new compounds with activity against these protozoan parasites, and quite low cytotoxicity. Moreover, the interference of plasma membrane permeability of these analogues were also evaluated. We found that [(4-methoxyphenyl)methyl]octylamine (4) was noteworthy due to its high activity against the amastigote form of both parasites (IC50 1.3-5.8 μM) and good selectivity index. In order to unveil the SAR for this chemotype, we also presented a group efficiency analysis and PCA and HCA study, which indicated that the methoxyl provides good activity with lower cytotoxicity to mammalian cells. The results from SAR analyses suggest different mechanisms of action between the neutral and basic compounds. In summary, the analogues represent important activity against these parasites and must be prototypes for further exploitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina T Varela
- Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Rua São Nicolau 210, 09913-030 Diadema, SP, Brazil
| | - Maiara M Romaneli
- Centro de Parasitologia e Micologia, Instituto Adolfo Lutz, Av. Dr. Arnaldo 355, 01246-000 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Marta L Lima
- Centro de Parasitologia e Micologia, Instituto Adolfo Lutz, Av. Dr. Arnaldo 355, 01246-000 São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Instituto de Medicina Tropical de São Paulo, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Dr. Enéas Carvalho de Aguiar 470, 05403-000 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Samanta E T Borborema
- Centro de Parasitologia e Micologia, Instituto Adolfo Lutz, Av. Dr. Arnaldo 355, 01246-000 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Andre G Tempone
- Centro de Parasitologia e Micologia, Instituto Adolfo Lutz, Av. Dr. Arnaldo 355, 01246-000 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - João P S Fernandes
- Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Rua São Nicolau 210, 09913-030 Diadema, SP, Brazil.
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17
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Meier A, Erler H, Beitz E. Targeting Channels and Transporters in Protozoan Parasite Infections. Front Chem 2018; 6:88. [PMID: 29637069 PMCID: PMC5881087 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2018.00088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2018] [Accepted: 03/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Infectious diseases caused by pathogenic protozoa are among the most significant causes of death in humans. Therapeutic options are scarce and massively challenged by the emergence of resistant parasite strains. Many of the current anti-parasite drugs target soluble enzymes, generate unspecific oxidative stress, or act by an unresolved mechanism within the parasite. In recent years, collections of drug-like compounds derived from large-scale phenotypic screenings, such as the malaria or pathogen box, have been made available to researchers free of charge boosting the identification of novel promising targets. Remarkably, several of the compound hits have been found to inhibit membrane proteins at the periphery of the parasites, i.e., channels and transporters for ions and metabolites. In this review, we will focus on the progress made on targeting channels and transporters at different levels and the potential for use against infections with apicomplexan parasites mainly Plasmodium spp. (malaria) and Toxoplasma gondii (toxoplasmosis), with kinetoplastids Trypanosoma brucei (sleeping sickness), Trypanosoma cruzi (Chagas disease), and Leishmania ssp. (leishmaniasis), and the amoeba Entamoeba histolytica (amoebiasis).
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Meier
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Christian-Albrechts-University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Holger Erler
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Christian-Albrechts-University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Eric Beitz
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Christian-Albrechts-University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
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18
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ASP49-phospholipase A2-loaded liposomes as experimental therapy in cutaneous leishmaniasis model. Int Immunopharmacol 2018; 55:128-132. [DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2017.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2017] [Revised: 11/20/2017] [Accepted: 12/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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19
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Martins DB, Vieira MR, Fadel V, Santana VAC, Guerra MER, Lima ML, Tempone AG, dos Santos Cabrera MP. Membrane targeting peptides toward antileishmanial activity: Design, structural determination and mechanism of interaction. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2017; 1861:2861-2871. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2017.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2017] [Revised: 08/01/2017] [Accepted: 08/01/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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20
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Efficacy of a series of alpha-pyrone derivatives against Leishmania (L.) infantum and Trypanosoma cruzi. Eur J Med Chem 2017; 139:947-960. [PMID: 28881289 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2017.08.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2017] [Revised: 08/23/2017] [Accepted: 08/23/2017] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
The neglected tropical diseases Chagas disease and leishmaniasis affect together more than 20 million people living mainly in developing countries. The mainstay of treatment is chemotherapy, however the drugs of choice, which include benznidazole and miltefosine, are toxic and have numerous side effects. Safe and effective therapies are urgently needed. Marine alpha-pyrones have been previously identified as scaffolds with potential antiprotozoan activities. In this work, using a phenotypic screen, twenty-seven examples of 3-substituted 4-hydroxy-6-methyl alpha-pyrones were synthesized and their antiparasitic efficacy evaluated against Leishmania (L.) infantum and Trypanosoma cruzi in order to evaluate structure-activity relationships within the series. The mechanism of action and the in vivo efficacy of the most selective compound against T. cruzi were evaluated using different techniques. In vitro data indicated that compounds 8, 15, 25, 26 and 28 presented IC50 values in the range between 13 and 54 μM against L. infantum intracellular amastigotes. Among them, hexanoyl substituted pyrone 8 was the most selective and potent, with a Selectivity Index (SI) > 14. Fifteen of the alpha-pyrones were effective against T. cruzi trypomastigotes, with 3-undecanoyl (11) and 3-tetradecanoyl (12) substituted pyrones being the most potent against trypomastigotes, with IC50 values of 1 and 2 μM, respectively, and SI higher than 70. Using flow cytometry and fluorescent-based assays, pyrone 12 was found to induce hyperpolarization of the mitochondrial membrane potential of T. cruzi, without affecting plasma membrane permeability. An experimental acute phase-murine model, demonstrated that in vivo dosing of 12 (30 mg/kg/day; 5 days), had no efficacy at the first parasitemia onset of T. cruzi, but reduced the second onset by 55% (p < 0.05), suggesting a delayed action in BALB/c mice. Additionally, a histopathology study demonstrated no toxic effects to the treated mice. The finding that several 3-substituted alpha-pyrones have in vitro efficacy against both L. infantum and T. cruzi, and that one analogue exhibited moderate and non-toxic in vivo efficacy against T. cruzi is encouraging, and suggests that this compound class should be explored as long-term treatments in experimental Chagas disease.
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21
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Müller J, Aguado-Martínez A, Ortega-Mora LM, Moreno-Gonzalo J, Ferre I, Hulverson MA, Choi R, McCloskey MC, Barrett LK, Maly DJ, Ojo KK, Van Voorhis W, Hemphill A. Development of a murine vertical transmission model for Toxoplasma gondii oocyst infection and studies on the efficacy of bumped kinase inhibitor (BKI)-1294 and the naphthoquinone buparvaquone against congenital toxoplasmosis. J Antimicrob Chemother 2017; 72:2334-2341. [PMID: 28486633 PMCID: PMC5890665 DOI: 10.1093/jac/dkx134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2017] [Revised: 04/05/2017] [Accepted: 04/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Establishment of a mouse model for congenital toxoplasmosis based on oral infection with oocysts from Toxoplasma gondii ME49 and its application for investigating chemotherapeutic options against congenital toxoplasmosis. Methods CD1 mice were mated, orally infected with 5, 25, 100, 500 or 2000 oocysts and monitored for clinical signs and survival of dams and pups until 4 weeks post partum . The parasite burden in infected mice was quantified by real-time PCR in lungs, brains and, in the case of surviving pups, also in eyes. Seroconversion was assessed by ELISA. T. gondii cysts in brain were identified by immunofluorescence. In a second experiment, pregnant CD1 mice challenged with 20 oocysts/mouse were treated with buparvaquone or the calcium-dependent protein kinase 1 inhibitor bumped kinase inhibitor (BKI)-1294 and the outcome of infection was analysed. Results T. gondii DNA was detected in the brain of all infected animals, irrespective of the infection dose. Seroconversion occurred at 3 weeks post-infection. Most pups born to infected dams died within 1 week post partum , but a small fraction survived until the end of the experiment. T. gondii DNA was detected in the brain of all survivors and half of them exhibited ocular infection. Chemotherapy with both compounds led to dramatically increased numbers of surviving pups and reduced cerebral infection. Most efficient were treatments with BKI-1294, with 100% survivors and only 7% brain-positive pups. Conclusions BKI-1294 and buparvaquone exert excellent activities against transplacental transmission in pregnant mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joachim Müller
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Länggass-Strasse 122, CH-3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Adriana Aguado-Martínez
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Länggass-Strasse 122, CH-3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Luis-Miguel Ortega-Mora
- SALUVET, Animal Health Department, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Javier Moreno-Gonzalo
- SALUVET, Animal Health Department, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Ignacio Ferre
- SALUVET, Animal Health Department, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Matthew A. Hulverson
- Center for Emerging and Reemerging Infectious Diseases (CERID), Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Ryan Choi
- Center for Emerging and Reemerging Infectious Diseases (CERID), Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Molly C. McCloskey
- Center for Emerging and Reemerging Infectious Diseases (CERID), Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Lynn K. Barrett
- Center for Emerging and Reemerging Infectious Diseases (CERID), Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Dustin J. Maly
- Department of Chemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Kayode K. Ojo
- Center for Emerging and Reemerging Infectious Diseases (CERID), Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Wes Van Voorhis
- Center for Emerging and Reemerging Infectious Diseases (CERID), Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Andrew Hemphill
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Länggass-Strasse 122, CH-3012 Bern, Switzerland
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Nanoliposomal Buparvaquone Immunomodulates Leishmania infantum-Infected Macrophages and Is Highly Effective in a Murine Model. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2017; 61:AAC.02297-16. [PMID: 28167544 DOI: 10.1128/aac.02297-16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2016] [Accepted: 01/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Visceral leishmaniasis is a fatal parasitic neglected disease affecting 1.5 million people worldwide. Based on a drug repositioning approach, the aim of this work was to investigate the in vitro immunomodulatory potential of buparvaquone (BPQ) and to establish a safe regimen to evaluate the in vivo efficacy of BPQ entrapped by negatively charged nanoliposomes (BPQ-LP) in Leishmania infantum-infected hamsters. Small-angle X-ray scattering, dynamic light scattering, and the ζ-potential were applied in order to study the influence of BPQ on the liposome structure. Our data revealed that BPQ was located in the polar-apolar interface, snorkeling the polar region, and protected against aggregation inside the lipophilic region. The presence of BPQ also decreased the Z-average hydrodynamic diameter and increased the surface charge. Compared to intravenous and intramuscular administration, a subcutaneous route was a more effective route for BPQ-LP; at 0.4 mg/kg, BPQ-LP reduced infection in the spleen and liver by 98 and 96%, respectively. Treatment for 5 days resulted in limited efficacy, but 10 days of treatment resulted in an efficacy similar to that of a 15-day regimen. The nanoliposomal drug was highly effective, with a mean 50% effective dose of 0.25 mg/kg, reducing the parasite load in bone marrow by 80%, as detected using quantitative PCR analysis. In addition, flow cytometry studies showed that BPQ upregulated cytokines as tumor necrosis factor, monocyte chemoattractant protein 1, interleukin-10 (IL-10), and IL-6 in Leishmania-infected macrophages, eliminating the parasites via a nitric oxide-independent mechanism. This new formulation proved to be a safe and effective treatment for murine leishmaniasis that could be a useful candidate against visceral leishmaniasis.
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Sciani JM, Vigerelli H, Costa AS, Câmara DAD, Junior PLDS, Pimenta DC. An unexpected cell-penetrating peptide from Bothrops jararaca venom identified through a novel size exclusion chromatography screening. J Pept Sci 2017; 23:68-76. [PMID: 28054409 DOI: 10.1002/psc.2965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2016] [Revised: 11/29/2016] [Accepted: 12/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Efficient drug delivery systems are currently one of the greatest challenges in pharmacokinetics, and the transposition of the gap between in vitro candidate molecule and in vivo test drug is, sometimes, poles apart. In this sense, the cell-penetrating peptides (CPP) may be the bridge uniting these worlds. Here, we describe a technique to rapidly identify unlabeled CPPs after incubation with liposomes, based on commercial desalting (size exclusion) columns and liquid chromatography-MS/MS, for peptide de novo sequencing. Using this approach, we found it possible to identify one new CPP - interestingly, a classical bradykinin-potentiating peptide - in the peptide-rich low molecular mass fraction of the Bothrops jararaca venom, which was also able to penetrate live cell membranes, as confirmed by classical approaches employing fluorescence-labeled analogues of this CPP. Moreover, both the labeled and unlabeled CPPs caused no metabolic, cell-cycle or morphologic alterations, proving to be unmistakably cargo deliverers and not drugs themselves. In sum, we have developed and validated a method for screening label-free peptides for CPP activity, regardless of their biological origin, which could lead to the identification of new and more efficient drug delivery systems. Copyright © 2017 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hugo Vigerelli
- Laboratório de Bioquímica e Biofísica, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
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Targeting the Cytochrome bc1 Complex of Leishmania Parasites for Discovery of Novel Drugs. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2016; 60:4972-82. [PMID: 27297476 DOI: 10.1128/aac.00850-16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2016] [Accepted: 06/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Endochin-like quinolones (ELQs) are potent and specific inhibitors of cytochrome bc1 from Plasmodium falciparum and Toxoplasma gondii and show promise for novel antiparasitic drug development. To determine whether the mitochondrial electron transport chain of Leishmania parasites could be targeted similarly for drug development, we investigated the activity of 134 structurally diverse ELQs. A cohort of ELQs was selectively toxic to amastigotes of Leishmania mexicana and L. donovani, with 50% inhibitory concentrations (IC50s) in the low micromolar range, but the structurally similar hydroxynaphthoquinone buparvaquone was by far the most potent inhibitor of electron transport, ATP production, and intracellular amastigote growth. Cytochrome bc1 is thus a promising target for novel antileishmanial drugs, and further improvements on the buparvaquone scaffold are warranted for development of enhanced therapeutics.
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Ghaffarpasand F, Akbarzadeh A, Heiran HR, Karimi AA, Akbarzadeh A, Ghobadifar MA. Effect of Topical Morphine on Cutaneous Leishmaniasis in an Animal Model: A Preliminary Report. IRANIAN RED CRESCENT MEDICAL JOURNAL 2016; 18:e24402. [PMID: 27437123 PMCID: PMC4939412 DOI: 10.5812/ircmj.24402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2014] [Revised: 02/13/2016] [Accepted: 04/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Background Pentavalent antimonials remain the choice of treatment for leishmaniasis, despite their toxicity, high cost, and difficult administration. As an alternative, morphine may induce the healing process of cutaneous leishmaniasis by its immunoregulatory characteristics. Objectives To study the effect of morphine on the wound-healing process of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) in a mouse model. Materials and Methods This was an experimental study in which 40 BALB/c mice (female, 6 - 8 weeks) were divided into four groups (each n = 10) who received either placebo alone (group 1), morphine ointment after parasite inoculation (group 2), morphine ointment after wound occurrence (group 3), or placebo after wound occurrence (group 4). Wound size was measured weekly for eight weeks. Results On the first day of treatment, the lesions measured ~1.5 mm in diameter. After eight weeks of treatment, the wound size was significantly smaller in the mice who received morphine ointment (4.81 ± 3.22 mm) compared to those who received placebo after parasite inoculation (8.95 ± 5.71 mm; P = 0.0001) or placebo after wound occurrence (P = 0.028). Conclusions The above data suggest that topical application of morphine accelerates the healing process of CL wounds. We are cautiously optimistic that the results of this study can be used clinically for potentiating CL wound-healing.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Afsoon Akbarzadeh
- Student Research Committee, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR Iran
- Corresponding Author: Afsoon Akbarzadeh, Student Research Committee, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR Iran. Tel: +98-7112122970, Fax: +98-7112122970, E-mail:
| | - Hamid Reza Heiran
- Autoimmune Disease Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, IR Iran
| | - Ali Asghar Karimi
- Neuroscience Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, IR Iran
| | - Armin Akbarzadeh
- Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, IR Iran
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Barros GAC, Pereira AV, Barros LC, Lourenço A, Calvi SA, Santos LD, Barraviera B, Ferreira RS. In vitro activity of phospholipase A2 and of peptides from Crotalus durissus terrificus venom against amastigote and promastigote forms of Leishmania (L.) infantum chagasi. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2015; 21:48. [PMID: 26609302 PMCID: PMC4658749 DOI: 10.1186/s40409-015-0049-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2015] [Accepted: 11/18/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND American visceral leishmaniasis is caused by the intracellular parasite Leishmania (L.) infantum chagasi, and transmitted by the sand fly Lutzomyia longipalpis. Since treatment is based on classical chemotherapeutics with significant side effects, the search for new drugs remains the greatest global challenge. Thus, this in vitro study aimed to evaluate the leishmanicidal effect of Crotalus durissus terrificus venom fractions on promastigote and amastigote forms of Leishmania (L.) infantum chagasi. METHODS Phospholipase A2 (PLA2) and a pool of peptide fraction (<3 kDa) were purified from Crotalus venom. Furthermore, promastigotes and peritoneal macrophages of mice infected by amastigotes were exposed to serial dilutions of the PLA2 and peptides at intervals varying between 1.5625 μg/mL and 200 μg/mL. Both showed activity against promastigotes that varied according to the tested concentration and the time of incubation (24, 48 and 72 h). RESULTS MTT assay for promastigotes showed IC50 of 52.07 μg/mL for PLA2 and 16.98 μg/mL for the peptide fraction of the venom. The cytotoxicity assessment in peritoneal macrophages showed IC50 of 98 μg/mL and 16.98 μg/mL for PLA2 and peptide by MTT assay, respectively. In peritoneal macrophages infected by Leishmania (L.) infantum chagasi amastigotes, the PLA2 stimulated growth of parasites, and at higher doses reduced growth by 23 %. The peptide fraction prevented 43 % of the intracellular parasite growth at a dose of 16.98 μg/mL, demonstrating the toxicity of this dose to macrophages. Both fractions stimulated H2O2 production by macrophages but only PLA2 was able to stimulate NO production. CONCLUSION We have demonstrated the in vitro leishmanicidal activity of the PLA2 and peptide fraction of Crotalus venom. The results encourage further studies to describe the metabolic pathways involved in cell death, as well as the prospecting of molecules with antiparasitic activity present in the peptide fraction of Crotalus durissus terrificus venom.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gustavo A C Barros
- Department of Tropical Diseases, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University (UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista), Botucatu, SP Brazil
| | - Andreia V Pereira
- Department of Tropical Diseases, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University (UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista), Botucatu, SP Brazil
| | - Luciana C Barros
- Center for the Study of Venoms and Venomous Animals (CEVAP), São Paulo State University (UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista), Botucatu, SP Brazil
| | - Airton Lourenço
- Center for the Study of Venoms and Venomous Animals (CEVAP), São Paulo State University (UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista), Botucatu, SP Brazil
| | - Sueli A Calvi
- Department of Tropical Diseases, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University (UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista), Botucatu, SP Brazil
| | - Lucilene D Santos
- Department of Tropical Diseases, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University (UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista), Botucatu, SP Brazil ; Center for the Study of Venoms and Venomous Animals (CEVAP), São Paulo State University (UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista), Botucatu, SP Brazil
| | - Benedito Barraviera
- Department of Tropical Diseases, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University (UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista), Botucatu, SP Brazil ; Center for the Study of Venoms and Venomous Animals (CEVAP), São Paulo State University (UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista), Botucatu, SP Brazil
| | - Rui Seabra Ferreira
- Department of Tropical Diseases, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University (UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista), Botucatu, SP Brazil ; Center for the Study of Venoms and Venomous Animals (CEVAP), São Paulo State University (UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista), Botucatu, SP Brazil ; CEVAP/UNESP, Caixa Postal 577, Fazenda Experimental Lageado, Rua José Barbosa de Barros, 1780, 18610-307 Botucatu, SP Brasil
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Colombo FA, Pereira-Chioccola VL, Meira CDS, Motoie G, Gava R, Hiramoto RM, de Almeida ME, da Silva AJ, Cutolo AA, Menz I. Performance of a real time PCR for leishmaniasis diagnosis using a L. (L.) infantum hypothetical protein as target in canine samples. Exp Parasitol 2015; 157:156-62. [PMID: 26297683 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2015.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2015] [Revised: 07/20/2015] [Accepted: 08/16/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Visceral leishmaniasis represents an important public health issue in different parts of the world, requiring that measures be put in place to control the spread of the disease worldwide. The canine leishmaniasis diagnosis is not easy based on clinical signs, since dogs may not develop the infection with recognizable signs. Thus, the laboratorial diagnosis is essential to ascertain the incidence and prevalence of canine leishmaniasis especially in areas with major control efforts. Although, the diagnosis can be performed by the use of different approaches, the molecular methods such as PCR have become an indispensable tool for leishmaniases diagnosis. A TaqMan assay for real-time PCR (Linj31-qPCR) was developed to determine the parasite occurrence in clinical cases of leishmaniasis. The assay targets an L. (L.) infantum hypothetical protein region. The specificity of the assay was verified by using Leishmania World Health Organization reference strains including parasites belonging to subgenus L. (Leishmania), subgenus L. (Viannia), other Leishmania species and Trypanosoma cruzi. The sensitivity was verified by using isolates of L. (L.) amazonensis and L. (L.) infantum. The usefulness of the assay for diagnosis was ascertained by testing 277 samples from dogs in regions endemic for visceral and/or cutaneous leishmaniasis and from regions in which leishmaniasis was not endemic in São Paulo State, Brazil. Diagnosis of canine visceral leishmaniasis (CVL) was determined on these animals by conventional PCR and three serological tests. The dog samples were divided into four groups. I, dogs with CVL (n = 101); II, dogs with other diseases and without CVL (n = 97); III, dogs with American cutaneous leishmaniasis (n = 7), and, IV, dogs without CVL (n = 72) from areas where leishmaniasis was not endemic as control group. Results indicated that Linj31-qPCR was able to identify parasites belonging to subgenus L. (Leishmania) with no cross-amplification with other parasite subgenera. The Linj31-qPCR detected Leishmania parasites DNA in 98% of samples from Group I. In conclusion this methodology can be used as routine diagnostic tools to detect parasites from subgenus Leishmania.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Antonio Colombo
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular de Micro-organismos da Universidade Federal de Alfenas, Alfenas, MG, Brazil
| | - Vera Lucia Pereira-Chioccola
- Laboratorio de Biologia Molecular de Parasitas, Centro de Parasitologia e Micologia do Instituto Adolfo Lutz, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Cristina da Silva Meira
- Laboratorio de Biologia Molecular de Parasitas, Centro de Parasitologia e Micologia do Instituto Adolfo Lutz, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Gabriela Motoie
- Laboratorio de Biologia Molecular de Parasitas, Centro de Parasitologia e Micologia do Instituto Adolfo Lutz, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Gava
- Laboratorio de Biologia Molecular de Parasitas, Centro de Parasitologia e Micologia do Instituto Adolfo Lutz, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Roberto M Hiramoto
- Nucleo de Parasitoses Sistemicas, Centro de Parasitologia e Micologia do Instituto Adolfo Lutz, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Marcos E de Almeida
- Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Public Health Service, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Alexandre J da Silva
- Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Public Health Service, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Andre Antonio Cutolo
- Setor de Controle de Zoonoses e Vetores, Prefeitura Municipal de Monte Mor, Monte Mor, SP, Brazil
| | - Ingrid Menz
- Ingrid Menz Micro Empresa, Campinas, SP, Brazil
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Jamal Q, Khan NH, Wahid S, Awan MM, Sutherland C, Shah A. In-vitro sensitivity of Pakistani Leishmania tropica field isolate against buparvaquone in comparison to standard anti-leishmanial drugs. Exp Parasitol 2015; 154:93-7. [PMID: 25911243 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2015.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2014] [Revised: 02/15/2015] [Accepted: 04/17/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
In this study, in vitro anti-leishmanial activity of buparvaquone was evaluated against promastigotes and intracellular amastigotes of Pakistani Leishmania tropica isolate KWH23 in relation to the current standard chemotherapy for leishmaniasis (sodium stibogluconate, sodium stibogluconate, amphotericin B and miltefosine). For buparvaquone, mean % inhibition in intracellular amastigotes at four different concentrations (1.35 µM, 0.51 µM, 0.17 µM and 0.057 µM) was 78%, 44%, 20% and 14% respectively, whereas, against promastigotes it was 89%, 77%, 45% and 35% respectively. IC50 values calculated to estimate the anti-leishmanial activity of buparvaquone against intra-cellular amastigotes and promastigotes was 0.53 µM (95% C.I. = 0.32-0.89) and 0.15 µM (95% C.I. = 0.01-1.84) respectively. Amphotericin B was the most potent in-vitro drug tested, with an IC50 of 0.075 µM (95% C.I. = 0.006-0.907) against promastigotes, and 0.065 µM (95% C.I. = 0.048-0.089) against intra-cellular amastigotes. Amphotericin B was more cytotoxic against THP1 cells, with an IC50 of 0.15 µM (95% C.I. = 0.01-0.95) and an apparent in-vitro therapeutic index of 2.0, than was buparvaquone, with an IC50 of 12.03 µM (95% C.I. = 5.36-26.96) against THP1 cells and a therapeutic index of 80.2. The study proposes that buparvaquone may be further investigated as a candidate drug for treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qaisar Jamal
- Department of Zoology, University of Peshawar, Peshawar, Pakistan.
| | - Nazma Habib Khan
- Department of Zoology, University of Peshawar, Peshawar, Pakistan
| | - Sobia Wahid
- Department of Zoology, University of Peshawar, Peshawar, Pakistan
| | | | - Colin Sutherland
- Faculty of Infectious & Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, London WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Akram Shah
- Department of Zoology, University of Peshawar, Peshawar, Pakistan
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Abstract
Introduction: The armamentarium of antileishmanial drugs is small. It is further being threatened by the development of resistance and decreasing sensitivity to the available drugs. The development of newer drugs is sorely needed. Areas covered: The authors have based their review on a literature search performed using PubMed. The article specifically looks at investigational drugs, which have demonstrated, at the very least, in vitro and in vivo activities against the leishmania species that cause visceral leishmaniasis. Specifically, the authors review the nitroimidazole compound fexinidazole, which is one of the few drugs which have reached Phase II trials. The article also discusses the R enantiomer of (S)-PA-824, which has shown good antileishmanial activity. Finally, the article also highlights the many novel delivery systems and oral formulations of amphotericin B, which are both cheap and less toxic and are currently under investigation. Expert opinion: Very few new drugs have reached the clinic for this neglected tropical disease and there is an urgent need for new efficacious therapeutics. The authors believe that support from public-private partnerships would help in enabling the prompt development of drug candidates that could potentially make the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shyam Sundar
- Banaras Hindu University, Institute of Medical Sciences, Department of Medicine , Varanasi 221 005, UP , India + 91 542 2369632 ; + 91 542 2367568 ;
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Pinto EG, da Costa-Silva TA, Tempone AG. Histamine H1-receptor antagonists against Leishmania (L.) infantum: an in vitro and in vivo evaluation using phosphatidylserine-liposomes. Acta Trop 2014; 137:206-10. [PMID: 24905294 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2014.05.017] [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: 04/10/2014] [Revised: 05/22/2014] [Accepted: 05/27/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Considering the limited and toxic therapeutic arsenal available for visceral leishmaniasis (VL), the drug repositioning approach could represent a promising tool to the introduction of alternative therapies. Histamine H1-receptor antagonists are drugs belonging to different therapeutic classes, including antiallergics and anxyolitics. In this work, we described for the first time the activity of H1-antagonists against L. (L.) infantum and their potential effectiveness in an experimental hamster model. The evaluation against promastigotes demonstrated that chlorpheniramine, cinnarizine, hydroxyzine, ketotifen, loratadine, quetiapine and risperidone exerted a leishmanicidal effect against promastigotes, with IC50 values in the range of 13-84μM. The antihistaminic drug cinnarizine demonstrated effectiveness against the intracellular amastigotes, with an IC50 value of 21μM. The mammalian cytotoxicity was investigated in NCTC cells, resulting in IC50 values in the range of 57-229μM. Cinnarizine was in vivo studied as a free formulation and entrapped into phosphatidylserine-liposomes. The free drug was administered for eight consecutive days at 50mg/kg by intraperitoneal route (i.p.) and at 100mg/kg by oral route to L. infantum-infected hamsters, but showed lack of effectiveness in both regimens, as detected by real time PCR. The liposomal formulation was administered by i.p. route at 3mg/kg for eight days and reduced the parasite burden to 54% in liver when compared to untreated group; no improvement was observed in the spleen of infected hamsters. Cinnarizine is the first antihistaminic drug with antileishmanial activity and could be used as scaffold for drug design studies for VL.
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Pinto EG, Santos IO, Schmidt TJ, Borborema SET, Ferreira VF, Rocha DR, Tempone AG. Potential of 2-hydroxy-3-phenylsulfanylmethyl-[1,4]-naphthoquinones against Leishmania (L.) infantum: biological activity and structure-activity relationships. PLoS One 2014; 9:e105127. [PMID: 25171058 PMCID: PMC4149375 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0105127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2014] [Accepted: 07/21/2014] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Naphtoquinones have been used as promising scaffolds for drug design studies against protozoan parasites. Considering the highly toxic and limited therapeutic arsenal, the global negligence with tropical diseases and the elevated prevalence of co-morbidities especially in developing countries, the parasitic diseases caused by various Leishmania species (leishmaniasis) became a significant public health threat in 98 countries. The aim of this work was the evaluation of antileishmanial in vitro potential of thirty-six 2-hydroxy-3-phenylsulfanylmethyl-[1,4]-naphthoquinones obtained by a three component reaction of lawsone, the appropriate aldehyde and thiols adequately substituted, exploiting the in situ generation of o-quinonemethides (o-QM) via the Knoevenagel condensation. The antileishmanial activity of the naphthoquinone derivatives was evaluated against promastigotes and intracellular amastigotes of Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum and their cytotoxicity was verified in mammalian cells. Among the thirty-six compounds, twenty-seven were effective against promastigotes, with IC50 values ranging from 8 to 189 µM; fourteen compounds eliminated the intracellular amastigotes, with IC50 values ranging from 12 to 65 µM. The compounds containing the phenyl groups at R1 and R2 and with the fluorine substituent at the phenyl ring at R2, rendered the most promising activity, demonstrating a selectivity index higher than 15 against amastigotes. A QSAR (quantitative structure activity relationship) analysis yielded insights into general structural requirements for activity of most compounds in the series. Considering the in vitro antileishmanial potential of 2-hydroxy-3-phenylsulfanylmethyl-[1,4]-naphthoquinones and their structure-activity relationships, novel lead candidates could be exploited in future drug design studies for leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika G. Pinto
- Centre for Parasitology and Mycology, Instituto Adolfo Lutz, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
- Instituto de Medicina Tropical de São Paulo, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Isabela O. Santos
- Universidade Federal Fluminense, Instituto de Química, Departamento de Química Orgânica, Niterói, RJ, Brazil
| | - Thomas J. Schmidt
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biology and Phytochemistry (IPBP), University of Münster, PharmaCampus, Münster, Germany
| | | | - Vitor F. Ferreira
- Universidade Federal Fluminense, Instituto de Química, Departamento de Química Orgânica, Niterói, RJ, Brazil
| | - David R. Rocha
- Universidade Federal Fluminense, Instituto de Química, Departamento de Química Orgânica, Niterói, RJ, Brazil
| | - Andre G. Tempone
- Centre for Parasitology and Mycology, Instituto Adolfo Lutz, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
- * E-mail:
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Moreno E, Schwartz J, Fernández C, Sanmartín C, Nguewa P, Irache JM, Espuelas S. Nanoparticles as multifunctional devices for the topical treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2014; 11:579-97. [PMID: 24620861 DOI: 10.1517/17425247.2014.885500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cutaneous and mucocutaneous leishmaniasis are major tropical skin diseases. Topical treatment is currently limited to the least severe forms of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) without risk of dissemination. It is also recommended in combination with systemic therapy for more severe forms. Progresses in this modality of treatment are hindered by the heterogeneity of the disease and shortcomings in the clinical trials. AREAS COVERED This review overlooks three major modalities of topical therapies in use or under investigation against CL: chemotherapy, photodynamic therapy and immunotherapy; either with older compounds such as paramomycin or more recent nitric oxide donors, antimicrobial peptides or silver derivatives. The advantages and limitations of their administration with newer formulation strategies such as nanoparticles (NPs) are discussed. EXPERT OPINION The efficacy of a topical treatment against CL depends not only on the intrinsic antileishmanial activity of the drug but also on the amount of drug available in the dermis. NPs as sustained release systems and permeation enhancers could favour the creation of a drug reservoir in the dermis. Additionally, certain NPs have immunomodulatory properties or wound healing capabilities of benefit in CL treatment. Pending task is the selective delivery of active compounds to intracellular amastigotes, because even small NPs are unable to penetrate deeply into the skin to encounter infected macrophages (except in ulcerative lesions).
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther Moreno
- University of Navarra, Tropical Health Institute , Irunlarrea, 1 E-31008 Pamplona , Spain +34948425600 ; +34948425619 ;
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Soni MP, Shelkar N, Gaikwad RV, Vanage GR, Samad A, Devarajan PV. Buparvaquone loaded solid lipid nanoparticles for targeted delivery in theleriosis. J Pharm Bioallied Sci 2014; 6:22-30. [PMID: 24459400 PMCID: PMC3895290 DOI: 10.4103/0975-7406.124309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2013] [Revised: 11/21/2013] [Accepted: 11/21/2013] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Buparvaquone (BPQ), a hydroxynaphthoquinone derivative, has been investigated for the treatment of many infections and is recommended as the gold standard for the treatment of theileriosis. Theileriosis, an intramacrophage infection is localized mainly in reticuloendotheileial system (RES) organs. The present study investigates development of solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) of BPQ for targeted delivery to the RES. Materials and Methods: BPQ SLN was prepared using melt method by adding a molten mixture into aqueous Lutrol F68 solution (80°C). Larger batches were prepared up to 6 g of BPQ with GMS: BPQ, 2:1. SLN of designed size were obtained using ultraturrax and high pressure homogenizer. A freeze and thaw study was used to optimize type and concentration of cryoprotectant with Sf: Mean particle size, Si: Initial particle size <1.3. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) study was performed on optimized formulation. Formulation was investigated for in vitro serum stability, hemolysis and cell uptake study. Pharmacokinetic and biodistribution study was performed in Holtzman rat. Results: Based on solubility in lipid; glyceryl monostearate (GMS) was selected for preparation of BPQ SLN. Batches of BPQ SLN were optimized for average particle size and entrapment efficiency at <100 mg solid content. A combination of Solutol HS-15 and Lutrol F68 at 2% w/v and greater enabled the desired Sf/Si < 1.3. Differential scanning calorimetry and powder X-ray diffraction revealed decrease in crystallinity of BPQ in BPQ SLN while, scanning electron microscope revealed spherical morphology. BPQ SLN revealed good stability at 4°C and 25°C. Low hemolytic potential (<8%) and in vitro serum stability up to 5 h was observed. Cytotoxicity of SLN to the U937 cell was low. The macrophage cell line revealed high (52%) uptake of BPQ SLN in 1 h suggesting the potential to RES uptake. SLN revealed longer circulation and biodistrbution study confirmed high RES uptake (75%) in RES organs like liver lung spleen etc. Conclusion: The high RES uptake suggests BPQ SLN as a promising approach for targeted and improved delivery in theileriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maheshkumar P Soni
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Nilakash Shelkar
- National Centre for Preclinical Reproductive and Genetic Toxicology, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Rajiv V Gaikwad
- Department of Veterinary Nuclear Medicine, Maharashtra Animal and Fishery Sciences University, Bombay Veterinary College, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Geeta R Vanage
- National Centre for Preclinical Reproductive and Genetic Toxicology, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Abdul Samad
- Department of Veterinary Nuclear Medicine, Maharashtra Animal and Fishery Sciences University, Bombay Veterinary College, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Padma V Devarajan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
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Jain K, Jain NK. Novel therapeutic strategies for treatment of visceral leishmaniasis. Drug Discov Today 2013; 18:1272-81. [DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2013.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2013] [Revised: 07/04/2013] [Accepted: 08/07/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Moreira NDD, Vitoriano-Souza J, Roatt BM, Vieira PMDA, Ker HG, de Oliveira Cardoso JM, Giunchetti RC, Carneiro CM, de Lana M, Reis AB. Parasite burden in hamsters infected with two different strains of leishmania (Leishmania) infantum: "Leishman Donovan units" versus real-time PCR. PLoS One 2012; 7:e47907. [PMID: 23112869 PMCID: PMC3480442 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0047907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2012] [Accepted: 09/17/2012] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
To develop and test new therapeutics and immune prophylaxis strategies for visceral leishmaniasis (VL), understanding tissue parasitism evolution after experimental infection with Leishmania infantum is important. Experimental infection in a hamster model (Mesocricetus auratus) reproduces several typical aspects of canine and human VL that are closely related to the inoculum’s route. We quantified the parasitism in the liver and spleen of hamsters experimentally infected by various routes (intradermal, intraperitoneal, and intracardiac [IC]) and different strains of L. infantum (MHOM/BR/74/PP75 and Wild) and compared two different methodologies to evaluate tissue parasitism (Leishman Donovan units [LDU] and real-time qPCR). In addition, the quantification of specific total-IgG in the serum of uninfected and infected hamsters was determined by ELISA. The animals were followed for 1, 3, 6 and 9 months post-infection for survival analysis. We found that infection with the Wild strain by the IC route resulted in higher mortality. Positive antibody (IgG) responses were detected with higher peaks at 6 and 9 months in the IC group inoculated with PP75 strain. However, in animals infected with the Wild strain the IgG levels were elevated in all infected groups during all the time evaluated. We also observed by LDU analysis that the IC route lead to higher parasitism in the liver and spleen with both strains. Furthermore, qPCR showed higher sensitivity for identifying animals with low parasitic burden. In conclusion, qPCR can be useful for assessing parasitism in the spleen and liver of a hamster model infected with L. infantum independent of the route of infection, and this technique may become an essential tool for assessing parasite density in the hamster model after experimental treatment or immunization with potential vaccine candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nádia das Dores Moreira
- Laboratório de Imunopatologia, Núcleo de Pesquisas em Ciências Biológicas/NUPEB, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brasil
| | - Juliana Vitoriano-Souza
- Laboratório de Imunopatologia, Núcleo de Pesquisas em Ciências Biológicas/NUPEB, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brasil
| | - Bruno Mendes Roatt
- Laboratório de Imunopatologia, Núcleo de Pesquisas em Ciências Biológicas/NUPEB, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brasil
| | - Paula Melo de Abreu Vieira
- Laboratório de Imunopatologia, Núcleo de Pesquisas em Ciências Biológicas/NUPEB, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brasil
| | - Henrique Gama Ker
- Laboratório de Imunopatologia, Núcleo de Pesquisas em Ciências Biológicas/NUPEB, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brasil
| | - Jamille Mirelle de Oliveira Cardoso
- Laboratório de Imunopatologia, Núcleo de Pesquisas em Ciências Biológicas/NUPEB, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brasil
| | - Rodolfo Cordeiro Giunchetti
- Laboratório de Imunopatologia, Núcleo de Pesquisas em Ciências Biológicas/NUPEB, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brasil
| | - Cláudia Martins Carneiro
- Laboratório de Imunopatologia, Núcleo de Pesquisas em Ciências Biológicas/NUPEB, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brasil
- Laboratório de Pesquisas Clínicas, Departamento de Análises Clínicas, Escola de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brasil
| | - Marta de Lana
- Laboratório de Pesquisas Clínicas, Departamento de Análises Clínicas, Escola de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brasil
- Laboratório de Doença de Chagas, Núcleo de Pesquisas em Ciências Biológicas/NUPEB, Departamento de Análises Clínicas, Escola de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brasil
| | - Alexandre Barbosa Reis
- Laboratório de Imunopatologia, Núcleo de Pesquisas em Ciências Biológicas/NUPEB, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brasil
- Laboratório de Pesquisas Clínicas, Departamento de Análises Clínicas, Escola de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brasil
- * E-mail:
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