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Dobrachinski L, Ferreira LL, Cirino ME, Andrade-de-Siqueira AI, Mafud AC, Mascarenhas YP, Andricopulo AD, Moraes JD. The 3D pharmacophore modeling to explore new antischistosomal agents among US FDA approved drugs. Future Med Chem 2024:1-9. [PMID: 39072451 DOI: 10.1080/17568919.2024.2379231] [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: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Aim: To identify potential antischistosomal agents through 3D pharmacophore-based virtual screening of US FDA approved drugs. Materials & methods: A comprehensive virtual screening was conducted on a dataset of 10,000 FDA approved drugs, employing praziquantel as a template. Promising candidates were selected and assessed for their impact on Schistosoma mansoni viability in vitro and in vivo using S. mansoni infected mice. Results & conclusion: Among the selected drugs, betamethasone and doxazosin demonstrated in vitro efficacy, with effective concentration 50% (EC50) values ranging from 35 to 60 μM. In vivo studies revealed significant (>50%) reductions in worm burden for both drugs. These findings suggest that betamethasone and doxazosin hold promise for repurposing in treating schistosomiasis. Additionally, the study showcases a useful approach for identifying new antischistosomal drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leandro Dobrachinski
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, Guarulhos, SP, Brazil
| | - Leonardo Lg Ferreira
- Instituto de Física de São Carlos, Universidade de São Paulo, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Maria E Cirino
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, Guarulhos, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Ana C Mafud
- Instituto de Física de São Carlos, Universidade de São Paulo, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Yvonne P Mascarenhas
- Instituto de Física de São Carlos, Universidade de São Paulo, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Adriano D Andricopulo
- Instituto de Física de São Carlos, Universidade de São Paulo, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Josué de Moraes
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, Guarulhos, SP, Brazil
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Brasil, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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2
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Cajas RA, Santos SSB, Espírito-Santo MCC, Garedaghi Y, de Moraes J. In vitro and in vivo efficacy of the amiodarone and praziquantel combination against the blood fluke Schistosoma mansoni. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2024; 68:e0011424. [PMID: 38780260 PMCID: PMC11232383 DOI: 10.1128/aac.00114-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis, a widespread parasitic disease caused by the blood fluke of the genus Schistosoma, affects over 230 million people, primarily in developing countries. Praziquantel, the sole drug currently approved for schistosomiasis treatment, demonstrates effectiveness against patent infections. A recent study highlighted the antiparasitic properties of amiodarone, an anti-arrhythmic drug, exhibiting higher efficacy than praziquantel against prepatent infections. This study assessed the efficacy of amiodarone and praziquantel, both individually and in combination, against Schistosoma mansoni through comprehensive in vitro and in vivo experiments. In vitro experiments demonstrated synergistic activity (fractional inhibitory concentration index ≤0.5) for combinations of amiodarone with praziquantel. In a murine model of schistosomiasis featuring prepatent infections, treatments involving amiodarone (200 or 400 mg/kg) followed by praziquantel (200 or 400 mg/kg) yielded a substantial reduction in worm burden (60%-70%). Given the low efficacy of praziquantel in prepatent infections, combinations of amiodarone with praziquantel may offer clinical utility in the treatment of schistosomiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rayssa A Cajas
- Research Center on Neglected Diseases, Guarulhos University, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Silvia S B Santos
- Research Center on Neglected Diseases, Guarulhos University, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria Cristina C Espírito-Santo
- Department of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Laboratory of Immunopathology of Schistosomiasis (LIM-06), University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Laboratory of Helminthology, Institute of Tropical Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Yagoob Garedaghi
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Tabriz Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Josué de Moraes
- Research Center on Neglected Diseases, Guarulhos University, São Paulo, Brazil
- Research Center on Neglected Diseases, Scientific and Technological Institute, Brazil University, São Paulo, Brazil
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3
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Cogo RM, Pavani TFA, Mengarda ACA, Cajas RA, Teixeira TR, Fukui-Silva L, Sun YU, Liu LJ, Amarasinghe DK, Yoon MC, Santos-Filho OA, de Moraes J, Caffrey CR, G G Rando D. Pharmacophore Virtual Screening Identifies Riboflavin as an Inhibitor of the Schistosome Cathepsin B1 Protease with Antiparasitic Activity. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:25356-25369. [PMID: 38882094 PMCID: PMC11170711 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.4c03376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2024] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a neglected disease of poverty that affects over 200 million people worldwide and relies on a single drug for therapy. The cathepsin B1 cysteine protease (SmCB1) of Schistosoma mansoni has been investigated as a potential target. Here, a structure-based pharmacophore virtual screening (VS) approach was used on a data set of approved drugs to identify potential antischistosomal agents targeting SmCB1. Pharmacophore (PHP) models underwent validation through receiver operating characteristics curves achieving values >0.8. The data highlighted riboflavin (RBF) as a compound of particular interest. A 1 μs molecular dynamics simulation demonstrated that RBF altered the conformation of SmCB1, causing the protease's binding site to close around RBF while maintaining the protease's overall integrity. RBF inhibited the activity of SmCB1 at low micromolar values and killed the parasite in vitro. Finally, in a murine model of S. mansoni infection, oral administration of 100 mg/kg RBF for 7 days significantly decreased worm burdens by ∼20% and had a major impact on intestinal and fecal egg burdens, which were decreased by ∼80%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramon M Cogo
- Universidade Federal de São Paulo-Campus Diadema, Curso de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Química da Unifesp, Rua São Nicolau 210, 2o andar, Centro, Diadema, São Paulo 09972-270, Brazil
| | - Thaís F A Pavani
- Universidade Federal de São Paulo-Campus Diadema, Curso de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Química da Unifesp, Rua São Nicolau 210, 2o andar, Centro, Diadema, São Paulo 09972-270, Brazil
| | - Ana C A Mengarda
- Universidade Guarulhos, Núcleo de Pesquisa em Doenças Negligenciadas-NPDN, Praça Tereza Cristina 88, Guarulhos 09972-270, Brazil
| | - Rayssa A Cajas
- Universidade Guarulhos, Núcleo de Pesquisa em Doenças Negligenciadas-NPDN, Praça Tereza Cristina 88, Guarulhos 09972-270, Brazil
| | - Thainá R Teixeira
- Universidade Guarulhos, Núcleo de Pesquisa em Doenças Negligenciadas-NPDN, Praça Tereza Cristina 88, Guarulhos 09972-270, Brazil
| | - Lucas Fukui-Silva
- Universidade Guarulhos, Núcleo de Pesquisa em Doenças Negligenciadas-NPDN, Praça Tereza Cristina 88, Guarulhos 09972-270, Brazil
| | - Yujie Uli Sun
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093-0021, United States
| | - Lawrence J Liu
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093-0021, United States
| | - Dilini K Amarasinghe
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093-0021, United States
| | - Michael C Yoon
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093-0021, United States
| | - Osvaldo A Santos-Filho
- Instituto de Pesquisas de Produtos Naturais Walter Mors, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho, 373, Bloco H, Rio de Janeiro 21941-853, Brazil
| | - Josué de Moraes
- Universidade Guarulhos, Núcleo de Pesquisa em Doenças Negligenciadas-NPDN, Praça Tereza Cristina 88, Guarulhos 09972-270, Brazil
| | - Conor R Caffrey
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093-0021, United States
| | - Daniela G G Rando
- Grupo de Pesquisas Químico-Farmacêuticas da Unifesp, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences Rua São Nicolau, Universidade Federal de São Paulo-Campus Diadema, 210, 2o andar, Centro, Diadema, São Paulo 09972-270, Brazil
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4
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Oliveira LVF, Camilo FF, Soares MG, Cajas RA, Cirino ME, de Moraes J, Lago JHG. In Situ Preparation of Dehydrodieugenol-Loaded Silver Nanoparticles and their Antischistosomal Activity. Chem Biodivers 2024; 21:e202301929. [PMID: 38278761 DOI: 10.1002/cbdv.202301929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a major neglected disease that imposes a substantial worldwide health burden, affecting approximately 250 million people globally. As praziquantel is the only available drug to treat schistosomiasis, there is a critical need to identify new anthelmintic compounds, particularly from natural sources. To enhance the activity of different natural products, one potential avenue involves its combination with silver nanoparticles (AgNP). Based on this approach, a one-step green method for the in situ preparation of dehydrodieugenol (DHDG) by oxidation coupling reaction using silver and natural eugenol is presented. AgNP formation was confirmed by UV-Vis spectroscopy due to the appearance of the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) band at 430 nm which is characteristic of silver nanoparticles. The nanoparticles were spherical with sizes in the range of 40 to 50 nm. Bioassays demonstrated that the silver nanoparticles loaded with DHDG exhibited significant anthelmintic activity against Schistosoma mansoni adult worms without toxicity to mammalian cells and an in vivo animal model (Caenorhabditis elegans), contributing to the development of new prototypes based on natural products for the treatment of schistosomiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa V F Oliveira
- Center for Natural and Human Sciences, Federal University of ABC, SP-09210-580, Santo Andre, Brazil
| | - Fernanda F Camilo
- Institute of Environmental, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of São Paulo, SP-09913-030, Diadema, Brazil
| | - Marisi G Soares
- Institute of Chemistry, Federal University of Alfenas, MG-37130-001, Alfenas, Brazil
| | - Rayssa A Cajas
- Research Center for Neglected Diseases, Guarulhos University, SP-07030-010, Guarulhos, Brazil
| | - Maria E Cirino
- Research Center for Neglected Diseases, Guarulhos University, SP-07030-010, Guarulhos, Brazil
| | - Josué de Moraes
- Research Center for Neglected Diseases, Guarulhos University, SP-07030-010, Guarulhos, Brazil
| | - João Henrique G Lago
- Center for Natural and Human Sciences, Federal University of ABC, SP-09210-580, Santo Andre, Brazil
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5
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Pavani TFA, Cirino ME, Teixeira TR, de Moraes J, Rando DGG. Targeting the Schistosoma mansoni nutritional mechanisms to design new antischistosomal compounds. Sci Rep 2023; 13:19735. [PMID: 37957227 PMCID: PMC10643403 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-46959-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The chemical classes of semicarbazones, thiosemicarbazones, and hydrazones are present in various compounds, each demonstrating diverse biological activities. Extensive studies have revealed their potential as schistosomicidal agents. Thiosemicarbazones, in particular, have shown inhibitory effects on Schistosoma mansoni's cathepsin B1 enzyme (SmCB1), which plays a crucial role in hemoglobin degradation within the worm's gut and its nutrition processes. Consequently, SmCB1 has emerged as a promising target for novel schistosomiasis therapies. Moreover, chloroquinoline exhibits characteristics in its aromatic structure that hold promise for developing SmCB1 inhibitors, along with its interaction with hemoglobin's heme group, potentially synergizing against the parasite's gut. In this context, we report the synthesis of 22 hybrid analogs combining hydrazones and quinolines, evaluated against S. mansoni. Five of these hybrids demonstrated schistosomicidal activity in vitro, with GPQF-8Q10 being the most effective, causing worm mortality within 24 h at a concentration of 25 µM. GPQF-8Q8 proved to be the most promising in vivo, significantly reducing egg presence in feces (by 52.8%) and immature eggs in intestines (by 45.8%). These compounds exhibited low cytotoxicity in Vero cells and an in in vivo animal model (Caenorhabditis elegans), indicating a favorable selectivity index. This suggests their potential for the development of new schistosomiasis therapies. Further studies are needed to uncover specific target mechanisms, but these findings offer a promising starting point.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thaís F A Pavani
- Grupo de Pesquisas Químico-Farmacêuticas, GPQFfesp, Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Instituto de Ciências Ambientais, Químicas e Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Rua São Nicolau, 210, 2° Andar, Centro, Diadema, São Paulo, 09913-030, Brazil
- Instituto de Ciências Ambientais, Químicas e Farmacêuticas, Curso de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Química da Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Diadema, SP, Brazil
| | - Maria E Cirino
- Núcleo de Pesquisas em Doenças Negligenciadas, NPDN, Universidade Guarulhos, Guarulhos, SP, Brazil
| | - Thainá R Teixeira
- Núcleo de Pesquisas em Doenças Negligenciadas, NPDN, Universidade Guarulhos, Guarulhos, SP, Brazil
| | - Josué de Moraes
- Núcleo de Pesquisas em Doenças Negligenciadas, NPDN, Universidade Guarulhos, Guarulhos, SP, Brazil
| | - Daniela G G Rando
- Grupo de Pesquisas Químico-Farmacêuticas, GPQFfesp, Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Instituto de Ciências Ambientais, Químicas e Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Rua São Nicolau, 210, 2° Andar, Centro, Diadema, São Paulo, 09913-030, Brazil.
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6
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Moreira-Filho JT, Neves BJ, Cajas RA, Moraes JD, Andrade CH. Artificial intelligence-guided approach for efficient virtual screening of hits against Schistosoma mansoni. Future Med Chem 2023; 15:2033-2050. [PMID: 37937522 DOI: 10.4155/fmc-2023-0152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The impact of schistosomiasis, which affects over 230 million people, emphasizes the urgency of developing new antischistosomal drugs. Artificial intelligence is vital in accelerating the drug discovery process. Methodology & results: We developed classification and regression machine learning models to predict the schistosomicidal activity of compounds not experimentally tested. The prioritized compounds were tested on schistosomula and adult stages of Schistosoma mansoni. Four compounds demonstrated significant activity against schistosomula, with 50% effective concentration values ranging from 9.8 to 32.5 μM, while exhibiting no toxicity in animal and human cell lines. Conclusion: These findings represent a significant step forward in the discovery of antischistosomal drugs. Further optimization of these active compounds can pave the way for their progression into preclinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Teófilo Moreira-Filho
- Laboratory of Molecular Modeling and Drug Design (LabMol), Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, 74605-170, Brazil
| | - Bruno Junior Neves
- Laboratory of Molecular Modeling and Drug Design (LabMol), Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, 74605-170, Brazil
| | - Rayssa Araujo Cajas
- Research Center on Neglected Diseases (NPDN), Universidade Guarulhos, Guarulhos, 07023-070, Brazil
| | - Josué de Moraes
- Research Center on Neglected Diseases (NPDN), Universidade Guarulhos, Guarulhos, 07023-070, Brazil
| | - Carolina Horta Andrade
- Laboratory of Molecular Modeling and Drug Design (LabMol), Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, 74605-170, Brazil
- Center for the Research and Advancement in Fragments and molecular Targets (CRAFT), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences at Ribeirao Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
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de Souza RL, Mengarda AC, Roquini DB, Melo CO, de Morais MC, C Espírito-Santo MC, de Sousa DP, Moraes JD, Oliveira EE. Enhancing the antischistosomal activity of carvacryl acetate using nanoemulsion. Nanomedicine (Lond) 2023; 18:331-342. [PMID: 37140262 DOI: 10.2217/nnm-2022-0228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim: To formulate a carvacryl acetate nanoemulsion (CANE) and test its antischistosomal activity. Materials & methods: CANE was prepared and tested in vitro on Schistosoma mansoni adult worms and both human and animal cell lines. Next, CANE was administered orally to mice infected with either a prepatent infection or a patent infection of S. mansoni. Results: CANE was stable during 90 days of analysis. CANE showed in vitro anthelmintic activity, and no cytotoxic effects were observed. In vivo, CANE was more effective than the free compounds in reducing worm burden and egg production. Treatment with CANE was more effective for prepatent infections than praziquantel. Conclusion: CANE improves antiparasitic properties and may be a promising delivery system for schistosomiasis treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael L de Souza
- Laboratory of Synthesis & Drug Delivery, State University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, 58071-160, Brazil
| | - Ana C Mengarda
- Research Center for Neglected Diseases, Guarulhos University, Guarulhos, 07023-070, Brazil
| | - Daniel B Roquini
- Research Center for Neglected Diseases, Guarulhos University, Guarulhos, 07023-070, Brazil
| | - Camila O Melo
- Laboratory of Synthesis & Drug Delivery, State University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, 58071-160, Brazil
| | - Mayara C de Morais
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, 58051-900, Brazil
| | - Maria Cristina C Espírito-Santo
- Laboratory of Immunopathology of Schistosomiasis (LIM-06), Department of Infectious & Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, 01246903, Brazil
- Laboratory of Helminthology, Institute of Tropical Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, 05403-000, Brazil
| | - Damião P de Sousa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, 58051-900, Brazil
| | - Josué de Moraes
- Research Center for Neglected Diseases, Guarulhos University, Guarulhos, 07023-070, Brazil
| | - Elquio E Oliveira
- Laboratory of Synthesis & Drug Delivery, State University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, 58071-160, Brazil
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Mengarda AC, Silva TC, Silva AS, Roquini DB, Fernandes JPS, de Moraes J. Toward anthelmintic drug candidates for toxocariasis: Challenges and recent developments. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 251:115268. [PMID: 36921525 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115268] [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: 12/18/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
Infections caused by parasitic helminths rank among the most prevalent infections of humans and animals. Toxocariasis, caused by nematodes of the genus Toxocara, is one of the most widespread and economically important zoonotic parasitic infections that humans share with dogs and cats. Despite the completion of the Toxocara canis draft genome project, which has been an important step towards advancing the understanding of this parasite and the search for drug targets, the treatment of toxocariasis has been dependent on a limited set of drugs, necessitating the search for novel anthelmintic agents, specially against Toxocara larvae in tissues. Given that research, development, and innovation are crucial to finding appropriate solutions in the fight against helminthiasis, this paper reviews the progress made in the discovery of anthelmintic drug candidates for toxocariasis. The main compounds reported in the recent years regards on analogues of albendazole, reactive quinone derivatives and natural produts and its analogues. Nanoparticles and formulations were also reviewed. The in vitro and/or in vivo anthelmintic properties of such alternatives are herein discussed as well as the opportunities and challenges for treatment of human toxocariasis. The performed review clarify that the scarcity of validated molecular targets and limited chemical space explored are the main bottlenecks for advancing in the field of anti-Toxocara agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana C Mengarda
- Research Center on Neglected Diseases, Guarulhos University, Praça Tereza Cristina 229, 07023-070, Guarulhos, SP, Brazil.
| | - Tais C Silva
- Research Center on Neglected Diseases, Guarulhos University, Praça Tereza Cristina 229, 07023-070, Guarulhos, SP, Brazil.
| | - Aline S Silva
- Research Center on Neglected Diseases, Guarulhos University, Praça Tereza Cristina 229, 07023-070, Guarulhos, SP, Brazil.
| | - Daniel B Roquini
- Research Center on Neglected Diseases, Guarulhos University, Praça Tereza Cristina 229, 07023-070, Guarulhos, SP, Brazil.
| | - João Paulo S Fernandes
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, campus Diadema, Rua São Nicolau 210, 09913-030, Diadema, SP, Brazil.
| | - Josué de Moraes
- Research Center on Neglected Diseases, Guarulhos University, Praça Tereza Cristina 229, 07023-070, Guarulhos, SP, Brazil.
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9
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Brito JR, Wilairatana P, Roquini DB, Parra BC, Gonçalves MM, Souza DCS, Ferreira EA, Salvadori MC, Teixeira FS, Lago JHG, de Moraes J. Neolignans isolated from Saururus cernuus L. (Saururaceae) exhibit efficacy against Schistosoma mansoni. Sci Rep 2022; 12:19320. [PMID: 36369516 PMCID: PMC9652300 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-23110-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis, a parasitic disease caused by the blood fluke of the genus Schistosoma, affects over 230 million people, especially in developing countries. Despite the significant economic and public health consequences, only one drug is currently available for treatment of schistosomiasis, praziquantel. Thus, there is an urgent demand for new anthelmintic agents. Based on our continuous studies involving the chemical prospection of floristic biodiversity aiming to discover new bioactive compounds, this work reports the in vitro antiparasitic activity against Schistosoma mansoni adult worms of neolignans threo-austrobailignan-6 and verrucosin, both isolated from Saururus cernuus L. (Saururaceae). These neolignans showed a significant in vitro schistosomicidal activity, with EC50 values of 12.6-28.1 µM. Further analysis revealed a pronounced reduction in the number of S. mansoni eggs. Scanning electron microscopy analysis revealed morphological alterations when schistosomes were exposed to either threo-austrobailignan-6 or verrucosin. These relevant antischistosomal properties were accompanied by low cytotoxicity potential against the animal (Vero) and human (HaCaT) cell lines, resulting in a high selectivity index. Considering the promising chemical and biological properties of threo-austrobailignan-6 and verrucosin, this research should be of interest to those in the area of neglected diseases and in particular antischistosomal drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana R Brito
- Institute of Environmental, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of São Paulo, Diadema, SP, 09972-270, Brazil
| | - Polrat Wilairatana
- Department of Clinical Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand.
| | - Daniel B Roquini
- Research Center on Neglected Diseases, Guarulhos University, Guarulhos, SP, 07023-070, Brazil
| | - Beatriz C Parra
- Research Center on Neglected Diseases, Guarulhos University, Guarulhos, SP, 07023-070, Brazil
| | - Marina M Gonçalves
- Center for Natural and Human Sciences, Federal University of ABC, Santo André, SP, 09210-180, Brazil
| | - Dalete Christine S Souza
- Center for Natural and Human Sciences, Federal University of ABC, Santo André, SP, 09210-180, Brazil
| | - Edgard A Ferreira
- School of Engineering, Mackenzie Presbyterian University, São Paulo, SP, 01302-907, Brazil
| | - Maria C Salvadori
- Institute of Physics, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, 05508-090, Brazil
| | - Fernanda S Teixeira
- Institute of Physics, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, 05508-090, Brazil
| | - João Henrique G Lago
- Center for Natural and Human Sciences, Federal University of ABC, Santo André, SP, 09210-180, Brazil.
| | - Josué de Moraes
- Research Center on Neglected Diseases, Guarulhos University, Guarulhos, SP, 07023-070, Brazil.
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N-(4-Methoxyphenyl)Pentanamide, a Simplified Derivative of Albendazole, Displays Anthelmintic Properties against the Nematode Toxocara canis. Microbiol Spectr 2022; 10:e0180722. [PMID: 35900089 PMCID: PMC9431031 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.01807-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Infections caused by parasitic helminths have enormous health, social, and economic impacts worldwide. The treatment and control of these diseases have been dependent on a limited set of drugs, many of which have become less effective, necessitating the search for novel anthelmintic agents. In this study, a simplified compound, N-(4-methoxyphenyl)pentanamide (N4MP), based on the structure of the most widely used anthelmintic (albendazole), was chemically prepared using 4-anisidine and pentanoic acid. N-(4-Methoxyphenyl)pentanamide was evaluated in vitro against the nematode Toxocara canis, an ascarid roundworm of animals that can infect humans. Similar to albendazole, bioassays showed that N-(4-methoxyphenyl)pentanamide affected the viability of parasites in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. Interestingly, N-(4-methoxyphenyl)pentanamide showed a profile of lower cytotoxicity to human and animal cell lines than albendazole. Pharmacokinetic, drug-likeness, and medicinal chemistry friendliness studies demonstrated an excellent drug-likeness profile for N-(4-methoxyphenyl)pentanamide as well as an adherence to major pharmaceutical companies’ filters. Collectively, the results of this study demonstrate that the molecular simplification of albendazole to give N-(4-methoxyphenyl)pentanamide may be an important pipeline in the discovery of novel anthelmintic agents. IMPORTANCE Infections caused by parasitic helminths have enormous health, social, and economic impacts worldwide. The treatment and control of these diseases have been dependent on a limited set of drugs, many of which have become less effective, necessitating the search for novel anthelmintic agents. Considering this scenario, the present study reports the preparation of N-(4-methoxyphenyl)pentanamide (N4MP), a simplified molecule based on the structure of the most widely used anthelmintic (albendazole). N4MP was evaluated in vitro against the nematode Toxocara canis, a common ascarid roundworm of domestic animals that can infect humans. Similar to albendazole, bioassays showed that N4MP affected the viability of parasites in a time- and concentration-dependent manner but displayed a profile of lower cytotoxicity to human and animal cell lines than albendazole. Therefore, this study demonstrates that the molecular simplification of albendazole to give N4MP may be an important pipeline in the discovery of novel anthelmintic agents.
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Roquini DB, Silva GL, Ferreira LLG, Andricopulo AD, Wilairatana P, De Moraes J. Susceptibility of Angiostrongylus cantonensis Larvae to Anthelmintic Drugs. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:901459. [PMID: 35800438 PMCID: PMC9255552 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.901459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Human helminthiasis affects approximately one in five people in the world and disproportionally affects the poorest and most deprived communities. Human angiostrongyliasis, caused by nematode Angiostrongylus cantonensis, is a neglected emerging disease with escalating importance worldwide. Chemotherapy is the main control method for helminthiasis, but the therapeutic arsenal is limited. This study aimed to evaluate the antiparasitic and molecular properties of the major available anthelmintic drugs against A. cantonensis in vitro. The first-stage larvae (L1), isolated from feces of an A. cantonensis-infected rat, were exposed to a set of 12 anthelmintic drugs in vitro. The larvae were monitored, and the concentration- and time-dependent viability alterations were determined. From 12 anthelmintic drugs, six (ivermectin, salamectin, moxidectin, pyrantel pamoate, albendazole and levamisole) were identified to affect the viability of A. cantonensis. The macrocyclic lactones (ivermectin, salamectin, moxidectin) and the imidazothiazole levamisole, were the most effective drugs, with IC50 ranging from 2.2 to 2.9 µM and a rapid onset of action. Albendazole, the most widely used anthelmintic in humans, had a slower onset of action, but an IC50 of 11.3 µM was achieved within 24 h. Molecular properties studies suggest that a less lipophilic character and low molecular weight could be favorable for the biological activity of the non-macrocyclic molecules. Collectively, our study revealed that macrocyclic lactones, levamisole, pyrantel pamoate, and albendazole are important anthelmintic agents against A. cantonensis. The results of this in vitro study also suggest that A. cantonensis L1 may be a particularly sensitive and useful model for anthelmintic studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel B. Roquini
- Center for Neglected Diseases Research, Guarulhos University, Guarulhos, Brazil
| | - Gabriel L. Silva
- Center for Neglected Diseases Research, Guarulhos University, Guarulhos, Brazil
| | - Leonardo L. G. Ferreira
- Laboratory of Medicinal and Computational Chemistry, Center for Research and Innovation in Biodiversity and Drug Discovery, Physics Institute of Sao Carlos, University of São Paulo, São Carlos, Brazil
| | - Adriano D. Andricopulo
- Laboratory of Medicinal and Computational Chemistry, Center for Research and Innovation in Biodiversity and Drug Discovery, Physics Institute of Sao Carlos, University of São Paulo, São Carlos, Brazil
| | - Polrat Wilairatana
- Department of Clinical Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- *Correspondence: Polrat Wilairatana, ; Josué De Moraes,
| | - Josué De Moraes
- Center for Neglected Diseases Research, Guarulhos University, Guarulhos, Brazil
- *Correspondence: Polrat Wilairatana, ; Josué De Moraes,
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Xavier ES, de Souza RL, Rodrigues VC, Melo CO, Roquini DB, Lemes BL, Wilairatana P, Oliveira EE, de Moraes J. Therapeutic Efficacy of Carvacrol-Loaded Nanoemulsion in a Mouse Model of Schistosomiasis. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:917363. [PMID: 35784725 PMCID: PMC9247328 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.917363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Since praziquantel is the only drug available to treat schistosomiasis, a neglected parasitic disease that affects more than 240 million people worldwide, there is an urgent demand for new antischistosomal agents. Natural compound-loaded nanoparticles have recently emerged as a promising alternative for the treatment of schistosomiasis. Carvacrol is an antimicrobial monoterpene present in the essential oil extracted from several plants, especially oregano (Origanum vulgare). In this study, a carvacrol nanoemulsion (CVNE) was prepared, characterized, and administered orally (200 mg/kg) in a mouse infected with either immature (prepatent infection) or adult (patent infection) Schistosoma mansoni. For comparison, data obtained with an unloaded nanoemulsion (blank formulation), free carvacrol, and the drug of reference praziquantel are also presented. CVNE was more effective than free carvacrol in reducing the worm burden and egg production in both patent and prepatent infections. Favorably, CVNE had a high effect in terms of reducing the number of worms and eggs (85%–90%) compared with praziquantel (∼30%) in prepatent infection. In tandem, carvacrol-loaded nanoemulsion markedly improved antischistosomal activity, showing efficiency in reducing worm and egg burden, and thus it may be a promising delivery system for the treatment of schistosomiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edilaine S. Xavier
- Research Center for Neglected Diseases, Guarulhos University, Guarulhos, Brazil
| | - Rafael L. de Souza
- Laboratory of Synthesis and Drug Delivery, State University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Brazil
| | | | - Camila O. Melo
- Laboratory of Synthesis and Drug Delivery, State University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Daniel B. Roquini
- Research Center for Neglected Diseases, Guarulhos University, Guarulhos, Brazil
| | - Bruna L. Lemes
- Research Center for Neglected Diseases, Guarulhos University, Guarulhos, Brazil
| | - Polrat Wilairatana
- Department of Clinical Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- *Correspondence: Polrat Wilairatana, ; Josué de Moraes,
| | - Elquio E. Oliveira
- Laboratory of Synthesis and Drug Delivery, State University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Josué de Moraes
- Research Center for Neglected Diseases, Guarulhos University, Guarulhos, Brazil
- *Correspondence: Polrat Wilairatana, ; Josué de Moraes,
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de Carvalho LSA, de Souza VC, Rodrigues VC, Ribeiro AC, Nascimento JWL, Capriles PVSZ, Pinto PDF, de Moraes J, da Silva Filho AA. Identification of Asiaticoside from Centella erecta (Apiaceae) as Potential Apyrase Inhibitor by UF-UHPLC-MS and Its In Vivo Antischistosomal Activity. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14051071. [PMID: 35631657 PMCID: PMC9143675 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14051071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis, caused by parasites of the genus Schistosoma, is a neglected disease with high global prevalence, affecting more than 240 million people in several countries. Praziquantel (PZQ) is the only drug currently available for the treatment. S. mansoni NTPDases (known as SmNTPDases, ATP diphosphohydrolases or ecto-apyrases) are potential drug targets for the discovery of new antischistosomal drugs. In this study, we screen NTPDases inhibitors from Centella erecta (Apiaceae) using an ultrafiltration combined UHPLC-QTOF-MS method and potato apyrase, identifying asiaticoside as one of the apyrase-binding compounds. After isolation of asiaticoside from C. erecta extract, we assessed its in vivo antischistosomal activities against Schistosoma mansoni worms and its in vitro enzymatic apyrase inhibition. Also, molecular docking analysis of asiaticoside against potato apyrase, S. mansoni NTPDases 1 and 2 were performed. Asiaticoside showed a significant in vitro apyrase inhibition and molecular docking studies corroborate with its possible actions in potato apyrase and S. mansoni NTPDases. In mice harboring a patent S. mansoni infection, a single oral dose of asiaticoside (400 mg/kg. p.o.) showed significantly in vivo antischistosomal efficacy, markedly decreasing the total worm load and egg burden, giving support for further exploration of apyrase inhibitors as antischistosomal agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Soares Aleixo de Carvalho
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, R. José Lourenço Kelmer s/n, Campus Universitário, Juiz de Fora 36036-900, MG, Brazil;
| | - Vinícius Carius de Souza
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Modelagem Computacional, Departamento de Ciência da Computação, Instituto de Ciências Exatas, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora 36036-900, MG, Brazil; (V.C.d.S.); (P.V.S.Z.C.)
| | - Vinícius C. Rodrigues
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, Guarulhos 07023-070, SP, Brazil; (V.C.R.); (J.d.M.)
| | - Aline Correa Ribeiro
- Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora 36036-900, MG, Brazil; (A.C.R.); (J.W.L.N.); (P.d.F.P.)
| | - Jorge Willian Leandro Nascimento
- Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora 36036-900, MG, Brazil; (A.C.R.); (J.W.L.N.); (P.d.F.P.)
| | - Priscila V. S. Z. Capriles
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Modelagem Computacional, Departamento de Ciência da Computação, Instituto de Ciências Exatas, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora 36036-900, MG, Brazil; (V.C.d.S.); (P.V.S.Z.C.)
| | - Priscila de F. Pinto
- Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora 36036-900, MG, Brazil; (A.C.R.); (J.W.L.N.); (P.d.F.P.)
| | - Josué de Moraes
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, Guarulhos 07023-070, SP, Brazil; (V.C.R.); (J.d.M.)
| | - Ademar Alves da Silva Filho
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, R. José Lourenço Kelmer s/n, Campus Universitário, Juiz de Fora 36036-900, MG, Brazil;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +55-32-21023893; Fax: +55-32-21023801
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Mengarda AC, Iles B, F Longo JP, de Moraes J. Recent trends in praziquantel nanoformulations for helminthiasis treatment. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2022; 19:383-393. [PMID: 35264036 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2022.2051477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Infections caused by parasitic flatworms impose a considerable worldwide health burden. Recently, World Health Organization launched its roadmap for neglected diseases for the period 2021 to 2030 and oral treatment with praziquantel (PZQ) in tablet form is the main drug therapy for combating these diseases, but its use is limited by many drawbacks, including the high therapeutic dose due to the drug's low solubility and bioavailability. Among the strategies to improve PZQ performance, the use of drug nanocarriers has been cited as an interesting approach to overcome these pharmacological issues. AREAS COVERED This review focuses on the various types of nanomaterials (polymeric, lipidic, inorganic nanoparticles, and nanocrystals) which have been recently used to improve PZQ therapy. In addition, recent advances in PZQ nanoformulations, developed to overcome the barriers of the conventional drug are described. EXPERT OPINION Considering the poor rate of discovery in the anthelmintic segment observed in recent decades, the effective management of existing drugs has become essential. The application of new strategies based on nanotechnology can extend the useful life of PZQ in new and more effective formulations. Pharmaceutical nanotechnology can solve the pharmacokinetic challenges characteristic of PZQ and improve its solubility and bioavailability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana C Mengarda
- Research Center for Neglected Diseases, Guarulhos University, Guarulhos, SP, Brazil
| | - Bruno Iles
- Department of Genetics and Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - João Paulo F Longo
- Department of Genetics and Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Josué de Moraes
- Research Center for Neglected Diseases, Guarulhos University, Guarulhos, SP, Brazil
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