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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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Roquini D, Lemes BL, Kreutz ALB, Spoladore SC, Amaro MC, Lopes FB, Fernandes JP, de Moraes J. Antihistamines H 1 as Potential Anthelmintic Agents against the Zoonotic Parasite Angiostrongylus cantonensis. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:31159-31165. [PMID: 39035884 PMCID: PMC11256074 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.4c04773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2024] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
Infections caused by parasitic helminths pose significant health concerns for both humans and animals. The limited efficacy of existing drugs underscores the urgent need for novel anthelmintic agents. Given the reported potential of antihistamines against various parasites, including worms, this study conducted a screening of clinically available antihistamines against Angiostrongylus cantonensis-a nematode with widespread implications for vertebrate hosts, including humans. Twenty-one anti-H1 antihistamines were screened against first-stage larvae (L1) of A. cantonensis obtained from the feces of infected rats. Standard anthelmintic drugs ivermectin and albendazole were employed for comparative analysis. The findings revealed four active compounds (promethazine, cinnarizine, desloratadine, and rupatadine), with promethazine demonstrating the highest potency (EC50 = 31.6 μM). Additionally, morphological analysis showed that antihistamines induced significant changes in larvae. To understand the mechanism of action, antimuscarinic activities were reported based on average pK i values for human muscarinic receptor (mAChR) subtypes of the evaluated compounds. Furthermore, an analysis of the physicochemical and pharmacodynamic properties of antihistamines revealed that their anthelmintic activity does not correlate with their activity at H1 receptors. This study marks the first documentation of antihistamines' activity against A. cantonensis, offering a valuable contribution to the quest for novel agents effective against zoonotic helminths.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel
B. Roquini
- Núcleo
de Pesquisa em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, 07023-070 Guarulhos, SP, Brazil
| | - Bruna L. Lemes
- Núcleo
de Pesquisa em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, 07023-070 Guarulhos, SP, Brazil
| | - Amanda L. B. Kreutz
- Núcleo
de Pesquisa em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, 07023-070 Guarulhos, SP, Brazil
| | - Sophia C. Spoladore
- Núcleo
de Pesquisa em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, 07023-070 Guarulhos, SP, Brazil
| | - Monique C. Amaro
- Núcleo
de Pesquisa em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, 07023-070 Guarulhos, SP, Brazil
| | - Flavia B. Lopes
- Departamento
de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São
Paulo, 04023-062 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
- Departamento
de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, 09913-030 Diadema, SP, Brazil
| | - João Paulo
S. Fernandes
- Departamento
de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, 09913-030 Diadema, SP, Brazil
| | - Josué de Moraes
- Núcleo
de Pesquisa em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, 07023-070 Guarulhos, SP, Brazil
- Núcleo
de Pesquisa em Doenças Negligenciadas, Instituto Científico e Tecnológico, Universidade Brasil, 08230-030 São
Paulo, SP, Brazil
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3
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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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4
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Mohammad OS, Hussein HM, Abdel-Sayed SW, Mohamed GA, Shehata MAS. Therapeutic efficacy of candidate antischistosomal drugs in a murine model of schistosomiasis mansoni. Parasitol Res 2024; 123:215. [PMID: 38771511 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-024-08236-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease associated with considerable morbidity. Praziquantel (PZQ) is effective against adult schistosomes, yet, it has little effect on juvenile stages, and PZQ resistance is emerging. Adopting the drug repurposing strategy as well as assuming enhancing the efficacy and lessening the doses and side effects, the present study aimed to investigate the in vivo therapeutic efficacy of the widely used antiarrhythmic, amiodarone, and diuretic, spironolactone, and combinations of them compared to PZQ. Mice were infected by Schistosoma mansoni "S. mansoni" cercariae (Egyptian strain), then they were divided into two major groups: Early- [3 weeks post-infection (wpi)] and late- [6 wpi] treated. Each group was subdivided into seven subgroups: positive control, PZQ, amiodarone, spironolactone, PZQ combined with amiodarone, PZQ combined with spironolactone, and amiodarone combined with spironolactone-treated groups. Among the early-treated groups, spironolactone had the best therapeutic impact indicated by a 69.4% reduction of total worm burden (TWB), 38.6% and 48.4% reduction of liver and intestine egg load, and a significant reduction of liver granuloma number by 49%. Whereas, among the late-treated groups, amiodarone combined with PZQ was superior to PZQ alone evidenced by 96.1% reduction of TWB with the total disappearance of female and copula in the liver and intestine, 53.1% and 84.9% reduction of liver and intestine egg load, and a significant reduction of liver granuloma number by 67.6%. Comparatively, spironolactone was superior to PZQ and amiodarone in the early treatment phase targeting immature stages, while amiodarone had a more potent effect when combined with PZQ in the late treatment phase targeting mature schistosomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omnia Sobhi Mohammad
- Medical Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt.
| | | | | | - Ghada Adel Mohamed
- Medical Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
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5
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Villamizar-Monsalve MA, López-Abán J, Vicente B, Peláez R, Muro A. Current drug strategies for the treatment and control of schistosomiasis. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2024; 25:409-420. [PMID: 38511392 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2024.2333372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Schistosomiasis, one of the current Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) affects over 230 million people globally, with nearly 700 million at risk in more than 74 countries. Praziquantel (PZQ) has served as the primary treatment for the past four decades; however, its effectiveness is limited as it solely eliminates adult worms. In regions where infections are frequent, PZQ exhibits only temporary efficacy and has restricted potential to disrupt the prolonged transmission of the disease. AREAS COVERED A comprehensive exploration using the PubMed database was conducted to review current pharmacotherapy approaches for schistosomiasis. This review also encompasses recent research findings related to potential novel therapeutics and the repurposing of existing drugs. EXPERT OPINION Current schistosoma treatment strategies, primarily relying on PZQ, face challenges like temporary effectiveness and limited impact on disease transmission. Drug repurposing, due to economic constraints, is decisive for NTDs. Despite PZQ's efficacy, its failure to prevent reinfection highlights the need for complementary strategies, especially in regions with persistent environmental foci. Integrating therapies against diverse schistosome stages boosts efficacy and impedes resistance. Uncovering novel agents is essential to address resistance concerns in tackling this neglected tropical disease. Integrated strategies present a comprehensive approach to navigate the complex challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Alejandra Villamizar-Monsalve
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Group (e-INTRO), Biomedical Research Institute of Salamanca Research Centre for Tropical Diseases at the University of Salamanca (IBSAL-CIETUS), Salamanca, Spain
| | - Julio López-Abán
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Group (e-INTRO), Biomedical Research Institute of Salamanca Research Centre for Tropical Diseases at the University of Salamanca (IBSAL-CIETUS), Salamanca, Spain
| | - Belén Vicente
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Group (e-INTRO), Biomedical Research Institute of Salamanca Research Centre for Tropical Diseases at the University of Salamanca (IBSAL-CIETUS), Salamanca, Spain
| | - Rafael Peláez
- Organic and Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department, Biomedical Research Institute of Salamanca Research Centre for Tropical Diseases at the University of Salamanca (IBSAL-CIETUS), Salamanca, Spain
| | - Antonio Muro
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Group (e-INTRO), Biomedical Research Institute of Salamanca Research Centre for Tropical Diseases at the University of Salamanca (IBSAL-CIETUS), Salamanca, Spain
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6
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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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7
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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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8
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Rocha V, Cajas RA, Andrade-de-Siqueira AI, Almeida RBP, Godoy-Silva J, Gonçalves MM, Lago JHG, de Moraes J. Evaluating the Antischistosomal Activity of Dehydrodieugenol B and Its Methyl Ether Isolated from Nectandra leucantha-A Preclinical Study against Schistosoma mansoni Infection. ACS OMEGA 2023; 8:40890-40897. [PMID: 37929107 PMCID: PMC10620922 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c06111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis, a parasitic disease affecting nearly 250 million individuals globally, poses a significant health challenge. With praziquantel being the sole available treatment and its limited efficacy in early stage infections, the identification of novel bioactive compounds becomes imperative. This study examines the potential of dehydrodieugenol B (1) and its methyl ether (2), derived from the leaves of the Brazilian Nectandra leucantha plant (Lauraceae), in combatting Schistosoma mansoni infections through a preclinical approach. Initially, compound 1 displayed noteworthy in vitro antiparasitic activity with an EC50 of 31.9 μM, showcasing low toxicity in mammalian cells and an in vivo animal model (Caenorhabditis elegans). Conversely, compound 2 exhibited no activity. In silico predictions pointed to favorable oral bioavailability and the absence of PAINS similarities. Subsequently, a single oral dose of 400 mg/kg of compound 1 or praziquantel was administered to mice infected with adult (patent infection) or immature parasites (prepatent infection). Remarkably, in prepatent infections, 1 resulted in a significant reduction (approximately 50%) in both worm and egg burden, while praziquantel reduced worm and egg numbers by 30%. The superior efficacy of dehydrodieugenol B (1) compared to praziquantel in premature infections holds the potential to advance the development of new molecular prototypes for schistosomiasis treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinicius
C. Rocha
- Instituto
de Ciências Ambientais, Químicas e Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Diadema 09972-270, Brazil
| | - Rayssa A. Cajas
- Núcleo
de Pesquisa em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, Guarulhos, São Paulo 07023-070, Brazil
| | | | - Roberto B. P. Almeida
- Departamento
de Botânica, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-090, Brazil
| | - Julia Godoy-Silva
- Núcleo
de Pesquisa em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, Guarulhos, São Paulo 07023-070, Brazil
| | - Marina M. Gonçalves
- Centro
de Ciências Naturais e Humanas, Universidade
Federal do ABC, Santo
André, São Paulo 09210-180, Brazil
| | - João Henrique G. Lago
- Centro
de Ciências Naturais e Humanas, Universidade
Federal do ABC, Santo
André, São Paulo 09210-180, Brazil
| | - Josué de Moraes
- Núcleo
de Pesquisa em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, Guarulhos, São Paulo 07023-070, Brazil
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9
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Roquini V, Mengarda AC, Cajas RA, Martins-da-Silva MF, Godoy-Silva J, Santos GA, Espírito-Santo MCC, Pavani TFA, Melo VA, Salvadori MC, Teixeira FS, Rando DGG, de Moraes J. The Existing Drug Nifuroxazide as an Antischistosomal Agent: In Vitro, In Vivo, and In Silico Studies of Macromolecular Targets. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0139323. [PMID: 37409934 PMCID: PMC10434008 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.01393-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease that afflicts approximately 250 million people worldwide. There is an urgent demand for new antiparasitic agents because praziquantel, the only drug available for the treatment of schistosomiasis, is not universally effective and may derail current progress toward the WHO goal of eliminating this disease as a public health problem by 2030. Nifuroxazide (NFZ), an oral nitrofuran antibiotic, has recently been explored to be repurposed for parasitic diseases. Here, in vitro, in vivo, and in silico studies were conducted to evaluate the activity of NFZ on Schistosoma mansoni. The in vitro study showed significant antiparasitic activity, with 50% effective concentration (EC50) and 90% effective concentration (EC90) values of 8.2 to 10.8 and 13.7 to 19.3 μM, respectively. NFZ also affected worm pairing and egg production and induced severe damage to the tegument of schistosomes. In vivo, a single oral dose of NFZ (400 mg/kg of body weight) to mice harboring either prepatent or patent S. mansoni infection significantly reduced the total worm burden (~40%). In patent infection, NFZ achieved a high reduction in the number of eggs (~80%), but the drug caused a low reduction in the egg burden of animals with prepatent infection. Finally, results from in silico target fishing methods predicted that serine/threonine kinases could be one of the potential targets for NFZ in S. mansoni. Overall, the present study revealed that NFZ possesses antischistosomal properties, mainly in terms of egg burden reduction in animals with patent S. mansoni infection. IMPORTANCE The increasing recognition of the burden imposed by helminthiasis, associated with the limited therapeutic arsenal, has led to initiatives and strategies to research and develop new drugs for the treatment of schistosomiasis. One of these strategies is drug repurposing, which considers low-risk compounds with potentially reduced costs and shorter time for development. In this study, nifuroxazide (NFZ) was evaluated for its anti-Schistosoma mansoni potential through in vitro, in vivo, and in silico studies. In vitro, NFZ affected worm pairing and egg production and induced severe damage to the tegument of schistosomes. In vivo, a single oral dose of NFZ (400 mg/kg) to mice harboring either prepatent or patent S. mansoni infection significantly reduced the total worm burden and egg production. In silico investigations have identified serine/threonine kinases as a molecular target for NFZ. Collectively, these results implied that NFZ might be a potential therapeutic candidate for the treatment of schistosomiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinícius Roquini
- Research Center on Neglected Diseases, Guarulhos University, Guarulhos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ana C. Mengarda
- Research Center on Neglected Diseases, Guarulhos University, Guarulhos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rayssa A. Cajas
- Research Center on Neglected Diseases, Guarulhos University, Guarulhos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Julia Godoy-Silva
- Research Center on Neglected Diseases, Guarulhos University, Guarulhos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Gustavo A. Santos
- Research Center on Neglected Diseases, Guarulhos University, Guarulhos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria Cristina C. Espírito-Santo
- Laboratory of Immunopathology of Schistosomiasis (LIM-06), Department of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Laboratory of Helminthology, Institute of Tropical Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Thais F. A. Pavani
- Biological Chemistry Post-Graduate Course, Institute of Environmental, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of São Paulo, Diadema, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Vanusa A. Melo
- Biological Chemistry Post-Graduate Course, Institute of Environmental, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of São Paulo, Diadema, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria C. Salvadori
- Institute of Physics, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Daniela G. G. Rando
- Chemico-Pharmaceutical Research Group, Institute of Environmental, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of São Paulo, Diadema, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Josué de Moraes
- Research Center on Neglected Diseases, Guarulhos University, Guarulhos, São Paulo, Brazil
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Costa DDS, Leal CM, Cajas RA, Gazolla MC, Silva LM, Carvalho LSAD, Lemes BL, Moura ROD, Almeida JD, de Moraes J, da Silva Filho AA. Antiparasitic properties of 4-nerolidylcatechol from Pothomorphe umbellata (L.) Miq. (Piperaceae) in vitro and in mice models with either prepatent or patent Schistosoma mansoni infections. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 313:116607. [PMID: 37149066 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Roots of Pothomorphe umbellata (L.) Miq. are used in traditional medicine of Africa and South America for the treatment of malaria and helminthiasis. However, neither P. umbellata nor its isolated compounds have been evaluated against Schistosoma species. AIMS OF THIS STUDY To investigate the antischistosomal effects of P. umbellata root extracts and the isolated compound 4-nerolidylcatechol (4-NC) against Schistosoma mansoni ex vivo and in murine models of schistosomiasis. MATERIALS AND METHODS The crude hydroalcoholic (PuE) and hexane (PuH) extracts of P. umbellata roots were prepared and initially submitted to an ex vivo phenotypic screening against adult S. mansoni. PuH was analyzed by HPLC-DAD, characterized by UHPLC-HRMS/MS, and submitted to chromatographic fractionation, leading to the isolation of 4-NC. The anthelmintic properties of 4-NC were assayed ex vivo against adult schistosomes and in murine models of schistosomiasis for both patent and prepatent S. mansoni infections. Praziquantel (PZQ) was used as a reference compound. RESULTS PuE (EC50: 18.7 μg/mL) and PuH (EC50: 9.2 μg/mL) kill adult schistosomes ex vivo. The UHPLC-HRMS/MS analysis of PuH, the most active extract, revealed the presence of 4-NC, peltatol A, and peltatol B or C. After isolation from PuH, 4-NC presented remarkable in vitro schistosomicidal activity with EC50 of 2.9 μM (0.91 μg/mL) and a selectivity index higher than 68 against Vero mammalian cells, without affecting viability of nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. In patent S. mansoni infection, the oral treatment with 4-NC decreased worm burden and egg production in 52.1% and 52.3%, respectively, also reducing splenomegaly and hepatomegaly. 4-NC, unlike PZQ, showed in vivo efficacy against juvenile S. mansoni, decreasing worm burden in 52.4%. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates that P. umbellata roots possess antischistosomal activity, giving support for the medicinal use of this plant against parasites. 4-NC was identified from P. umbellata roots as one of the effective in vitro and in vivo antischistosomal compound and as a potential lead for the development of novel anthelmintics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danilo de Souza Costa
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, R. José Lourenço Kelmer s/n, Campus Universitário, Juiz de Fora, MG, 36036-900, Brazil.
| | - Carla Monteiro Leal
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, R. José Lourenço Kelmer s/n, Campus Universitário, Juiz de Fora, MG, 36036-900, Brazil.
| | - Rayssa A Cajas
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, Guarulhos, SP, 07023-070, Brazil.
| | - Matheus Coutinho Gazolla
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, R. José Lourenço Kelmer s/n, Campus Universitário, Juiz de Fora, MG, 36036-900, Brazil.
| | - Lívia Mara Silva
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, R. José Lourenço Kelmer s/n, Campus Universitário, Juiz de Fora, MG, 36036-900, Brazil.
| | - 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, MG, 36036-900, Brazil.
| | - Bruna L Lemes
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, Guarulhos, SP, 07023-070, Brazil.
| | - Renato Oliveira de Moura
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, R. José Lourenço Kelmer s/n, Campus Universitário, Juiz de Fora, MG, 36036-900, Brazil.
| | - Juliana de Almeida
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, R. José Lourenço Kelmer s/n, Campus Universitário, Juiz de Fora, MG, 36036-900, Brazil.
| | - Josué de Moraes
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, Guarulhos, SP, 07023-070, Brazil.
| | - Ademar A 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, MG, 36036-900, 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: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [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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Abd El Hady WE, El-Emam GA, Saleh NE, Hamouda MM, Motawea A. The Idiosyncratic Efficacy of Spironolactone-Loaded PLGA Nanoparticles Against Murine Intestinal Schistosomiasis. Int J Nanomedicine 2023; 18:987-1005. [PMID: 36860210 PMCID: PMC9968784 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s389449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Schistosomiasis is a chronic debilitating parasitic disease accompanied with severe mortality rates. Although praziquantel (PZQ) acts as the sole drug for the management of this disease, it has many limitations that restrict the use of this treatment approach. Repurposing of spironolactone (SPL) and nanomedicine represents a promising approach to improve anti-schistosomal therapy. We have developed SPL-loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs) to enhance the solubility, efficacy, and drug delivery and hence decrease the frequency of administration, which is of great clinical value. Methods The physico-chemical assessment was performed starting with particle size analysis and confirmed using TEM, FT-IR, DSC, and XRD. The antischistosomal effect of the SPL-loaded PLGA NPs against Schistosoma mansoni (S. mansoni)-induced infection in mice was also estimated. Results Our results manifested that the optimized prepared NPs had particle size of 238.00 ± 7.21 nm, and the zeta potential was -19.66 ± 0.98 nm, effective encapsulation 90.43±8.81%. Other physico-chemical features emphasized that nanoparticles were completely encapsulated inside the polymer matrix. The in vitro dissolution studies revealed that SPL-loaded PLGA NPs showed sustained biphasic release pattern and followed Korsmeyer-Peppas kinetics corresponding to Fickian diffusion (n<0.45). The used regimen was efficient against S. mansoni infection and induced significant reduction in spleen, liver indices, and total worm count (ρ<0.05). Besides, when targeting the adult stages, it induced decline in the hepatic egg load and the small intestinal egg load by 57.75% and 54.17%, respectively, when compared to the control group. SPL-loaded PLGA NPs caused extensive damage to adult worms on tegument and suckers, leading to the death of the parasites in less time, plus marked improvement in liver pathology. Conclusion Collectively, these findings provided proof-of-evidence that the developed SPL-loaded PLGA NPs could be potentially used as a promising candidate for new antischistosomal drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ghada Ahmed El-Emam
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Nora E Saleh
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Marwa M Hamouda
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Amira Motawea
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt,Correspondence: Amira Motawea, Email
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Biochanin A in murine Schistosoma mansoni infection: effects on inflammation, oxidative stress and fibrosis. J Helminthol 2023; 97:e16. [PMID: 36740983 DOI: 10.1017/s0022149x22000839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Biochanin A (BCA) is a multifunctional natural compound that possesses anti-infective, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative and hepatoprotective effects. The aim of the study was to assess the therapeutic efficacy of BCA on Schistosoma mansoni-infected mice. Fifty mice were divided into six different groups as non-infected, non-infected BCA-treated, infected untreated, early infected BCA-treated (seven days post-infection (dpi)), late infected BCA-treated 60 dpi and infected praziquantel (PZQ)-treated groups. Parasitological, histopathological examination and immunohistochemical staining of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase (COX-2) were investigated in liver sections. Cytochrome P450 (CYP450) gene expression of S. mansoni was evaluated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). A single dose of BCA significantly reduced worm burden in early (82.14%) and late infection (77.74%), mean tissue egg load in early (7.27 ± 0.495) and late BCA administration (7.63 ± 0.435) and decreased granuloma size. CYP450 mRNA expression was significantly reduced in early BCA treatment as compared to late treatment which emphasizes that early administration of BCA had more pronounced effects on worms than late administration. Both early and late BCA administration led to significant reduction in inflammatory cytokines as TGF and iNOS. Although the reduction of TGF and iNOS in BCA-treated mice was superior to PZQ, no statistically significant differences were noted. However, a significant downregulation of COX2 was noted in hepatocytes as compared to both infected control and PZQ-treated mice. BCA has schistosomicidal, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-fibrotic effects and could be regarded as a potential drug in schistosomiasis treatment.
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14
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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: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [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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15
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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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16
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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: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [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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Mtemeli FL, Ndlovu J, Mugumbate G, Makwikwi T, Shoko R. Advances in schistosomiasis drug discovery based on natural products. ALL LIFE 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/26895293.2022.2080281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- F. L. Mtemeli
- Department of Biology, School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics Chinhoyi University of Technology, Chinhoyi, Zimbabwe
| | - J. Ndlovu
- Department of Biology, School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics Chinhoyi University of Technology, Chinhoyi, Zimbabwe
| | - G. Mugumbate
- Department of Chemical Technology, Midlands State University, Gweru, Zimbabwe
| | - T. Makwikwi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - R. Shoko
- Department of Biology, School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics Chinhoyi University of Technology, Chinhoyi, Zimbabwe
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18
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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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Morais CS, Mengarda AC, Miguel FB, Enes KB, Rodrigues VC, Espírito-Santo MCC, Siyadatpanah A, Wilairatana P, Couri MRC, de Moraes J. Pyrazoline derivatives as promising novel antischistosomal agents. Sci Rep 2021; 11:23437. [PMID: 34873205 PMCID: PMC8648852 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-02792-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Praziquantel is the only available drug to treat schistosomiasis, a parasitic disease that currently infects more than 240 million people globally. Due to increasing concerns about resistance and inadequate efficacy there is a need for new therapeutics. In this study, a series of 17 pyrazolines (15–31) and three pyrazoles (32–34) were synthesized and evaluated for their antiparasitic properties against ex vivo adult Schistosoma mansoni worms. Of the 20 compounds tested, six had a 50% effective concentration (EC50) below 30 μM. Our best hit, pyrazoline 22, showed promising activity against adult schistosomes, with an EC50 < 10 µM. Additionally, compound 22 had low cytotoxicity, with selectivity index of 21.6 and 32.2 for monkey and human cell lines, respectively. All active pyrazolines demonstrated a negative effect on schistosome fecundity, with a marked reduction in the number of eggs. Structure–activity relationship analysis showed that the presence of the non-aromatic heterocycle and N-substitution are fundamental to the antischistosomal properties. Pharmacokinetics, drug-likeness and medicinal chemistry friendliness studies were performed, and predicted values demonstrated an excellent drug-likeness profile for pyrazolines as well as an adherence to major pharmaceutical companies’ filters. Collectively, this study demonstrates that pyrazoline derivatives are promising scaffolds in the discovery of novel antischistosomal agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristiane S Morais
- Research Center for Neglected Diseases, Guarulhos University, Praça Tereza Cristina, 229, Centro, Guarulhos, SP, 07023-070, Brazil
| | - Ana C Mengarda
- Research Center for Neglected Diseases, Guarulhos University, Praça Tereza Cristina, 229, Centro, Guarulhos, SP, 07023-070, Brazil
| | - Fábio B Miguel
- Department of Chemistry, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, MG, 36036-900, Brazil
| | - Karine B Enes
- Department of Chemistry, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, MG, 36036-900, Brazil
| | - Vinícius C Rodrigues
- Research Center for Neglected Diseases, Guarulhos University, Praça Tereza Cristina, 229, Centro, Guarulhos, SP, 07023-070, Brazil
| | - Maria Cristina C Espírito-Santo
- Laboratory of Immunopathology of Schistosomiasis (LIM-06), Department of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.,Laboratory of Helminthology, Institute of Tropical Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Abolghasem Siyadatpanah
- Ferdows School of Paramedical and Health, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, 9717853577, Birjand, Iran
| | - Polrat Wilairatana
- Department of Clinical Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand.
| | - Mara R C Couri
- Department of Chemistry, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, MG, 36036-900, Brazil.
| | - Josué de Moraes
- Research Center for Neglected Diseases, Guarulhos University, Praça Tereza Cristina, 229, Centro, Guarulhos, SP, 07023-070, Brazil.
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Silva BC, Mengarda AC, Rodrigues VC, Cajas RA, Carnaúba PU, Espírito-Santo MCC, Bezerra-Filho CSM, de Sousa DP, de Moraes J. Efficacy of carvacryl acetate in vitro and following oral administration to mice harboring either prepatent or patent Schistosoma mansoni infections. Parasitol Res 2021; 120:3837-3844. [PMID: 34604934 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-021-07333-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a major public health problem that afflicts more than 240 million individuals globally, particularly in poor communities. Treatment of schistosomiasis relies heavily on a single oral drug, praziquantel, and there is interest in the search for new antischistosomal drugs. This study reports the anthelmintic evaluation of carvacryl acetate, a derivative of the terpene carvacrol, against Schistosoma mansoni ex vivo and in a schistosomiasis animal model harboring either adult (patent infection) or juvenile (prepatent infection) parasites. For comparison, data obtained with gold standard antischistosomal drug praziquantel are also presented. Initially in vitro effective concentrations of 50% (EC50) and 90% (EC90) were determined against larval and adult stages of S. mansoni. In an animal with patent infection, a single oral dose of carvacryl acetate (100, 200, or 400 mg/kg) caused a significant reduction in worm burden (30-40%). S. mansoni egg production, a process responsible for both life cycle and pathogenesis, was also markedly reduced (70-80%). Similar to praziquantel, carvacryl acetate 400 mg/kg had low efficacy in pre-patent infection. In tandem, although carvacryl acetate had interesting in vitro schistosomicidal activity, the compound exhibited low efficacy in terms of reduction of worm load in S. mansoni-infected mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca C Silva
- Núcleo de Pesquisa Em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, R. Eng. Prestes Maia, 88, Centro, Guarulhos, SP, 07023-070, Brazil
| | - Ana C Mengarda
- Núcleo de Pesquisa Em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, R. Eng. Prestes Maia, 88, Centro, Guarulhos, SP, 07023-070, Brazil
| | - Vinícius C Rodrigues
- Núcleo de Pesquisa Em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, R. Eng. Prestes Maia, 88, Centro, Guarulhos, SP, 07023-070, Brazil
| | - Rayssa A Cajas
- Núcleo de Pesquisa Em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, R. Eng. Prestes Maia, 88, Centro, Guarulhos, SP, 07023-070, Brazil
| | - Paulo U Carnaúba
- Núcleo de Pesquisa Em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, R. Eng. Prestes Maia, 88, Centro, Guarulhos, SP, 07023-070, Brazil
| | - Maria Cristina C Espírito-Santo
- Laboratório de Imunopatologia da Esquistossomose (LIM-06), Departamento de Moléstias Infecciosas E Parasitárias, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
- Laboratório de Helmintologia, Instituto de Medicina Tropical de São Paulo, Universidade de São Paulo, SP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Carlos S M Bezerra-Filho
- Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal da Paraíba, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil
| | - Damião P de Sousa
- Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal da Paraíba, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil
| | - Josué de Moraes
- Núcleo de Pesquisa Em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, R. Eng. Prestes Maia, 88, Centro, Guarulhos, SP, 07023-070, Brazil.
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Porto R, Mengarda AC, Cajas RA, Salvadori MC, Teixeira FS, Arcanjo DDR, Siyadatpanah A, Pereira MDL, Wilairatana P, de Moraes J. Antiparasitic Properties of Cardiovascular Agents against Human Intravascular Parasite Schistosoma mansoni. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14070686. [PMID: 34358112 PMCID: PMC8308662 DOI: 10.3390/ph14070686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The intravascular parasitic worm Schistosoma mansoni is a causative agent of schistosomiasis, a disease of great global public health significance. Praziquantel is the only drug available to treat schistosomiasis and there is an urgent demand for new anthelmintic agents. Adopting a phenotypic drug screening strategy, here, we evaluated the antiparasitic properties of 46 commercially available cardiovascular drugs against S. mansoni. From these screenings, we found that amiodarone, telmisartan, propafenone, methyldopa, and doxazosin affected the viability of schistosomes in vitro, with effective concentrations of 50% (EC50) and 90% (EC90) values ranging from 8 to 50 µM. These results were further supported by scanning electron microscopy analysis. Subsequently, the most effective drug (amiodarone) was further tested in a murine model of schistosomiasis for both early and chronic S. mansoni infections using a single oral dose of 400 mg/kg or 100 mg/kg daily for five consecutive days. Amiodarone had a low efficacy in chronic infection, with the worm and egg burden reduction ranging from 10 to 30%. In contrast, amiodarone caused a significant reduction in worm and egg burden in early infection (>50%). Comparatively, treatment with amiodarone is more effective in early infection than praziquantel, demonstrating the potential role of this cardiovascular drug as an antischistosomal agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Porto
- Research Center for Neglected Diseases, Guarulhos University, Praça Tereza Cristina 229, São Paulo 07023-070, SP, Brazil; (R.P.); (A.C.M.); (R.A.C.)
| | - Ana C. Mengarda
- Research Center for Neglected Diseases, Guarulhos University, Praça Tereza Cristina 229, São Paulo 07023-070, SP, Brazil; (R.P.); (A.C.M.); (R.A.C.)
| | - Rayssa A. Cajas
- Research Center for Neglected Diseases, Guarulhos University, Praça Tereza Cristina 229, São Paulo 07023-070, SP, Brazil; (R.P.); (A.C.M.); (R.A.C.)
| | - Maria C. Salvadori
- Institute of Physics, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-060, SP, Brazil; (M.C.S.); (F.S.T.)
| | - Fernanda S. Teixeira
- Institute of Physics, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-060, SP, Brazil; (M.C.S.); (F.S.T.)
| | - Daniel D. R. Arcanjo
- Department of Biophysics and Physiology, Federal University of Piaui, Teresina 64049-550, PI, Brazil;
| | - Abolghasem Siyadatpanah
- Ferdows School of Paramedical and Health, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand 9717853577, Iran;
| | - Maria de Lourdes Pereira
- CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials & Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal;
| | - Polrat Wilairatana
- Department of Clinical Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
- Correspondence: (P.W.); (J.d.M.)
| | - Josué de Moraes
- Research Center for Neglected Diseases, Guarulhos University, Praça Tereza Cristina 229, São Paulo 07023-070, SP, Brazil; (R.P.); (A.C.M.); (R.A.C.)
- Correspondence: (P.W.); (J.d.M.)
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Mengarda AC, Silva MP, Cirino ME, Morais TR, Conserva GAA, Lago JHG, de Moraes J. Licarin A, a neolignan isolated from Nectandra oppositifolia Nees & Mart. (Lauraceae), exhibited moderate preclinical efficacy against Schistosoma mansoni infection. Phytother Res 2021; 35:5154-5162. [PMID: 34089558 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Revised: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a widespread human parasitic disease currently affecting over 200 million people, particularly in poor communities. Chemotherapy for schistosomiasis relies exclusively on praziquantel (PZQ). Previous studies have shown that licarin A (LIC-A), a dihydrobenzofuran neolignan, exhibited in vitro antiparasitic activity against Schistosoma mansoni adult worms. This study aimed to investigate the potential of LIC-A, isolated as main metabolite from leaves of Nectandra oppositifolia Nees & Mart. (Lauraceae), as an antischistosomal agent orally active in schistosomiasis animal model. PZQ was used as a reference compound. As result, LIC-A showed, at a single dose of 400 mg/kg, to be able to partially cure infected mice (worm burden reductions of ~50%). Parasite eggs, that are responsible for a variety of pathologies and transmission of schistosomiasis, were also moderately inhibited by LIC-A (egg burden reductions of ~50%-60%). Furthermore, it was observed that LIC-A achieved a slight reduction of hepatomegaly and splenomegaly. Collectively, although LIC-A was partially active when administered orally, these results give support for the antiparasitic potential LIC-A as lead compound for novel antischistosomal agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana C Mengarda
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, Guarulhos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marcos P Silva
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, Guarulhos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria E Cirino
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, Guarulhos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Thiago R Morais
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, Guarulhos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Geanne A A Conserva
- Centro de Ciências Naturais e Humanas, Universidade Federal do ABC, Santo André, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - João Henrique G Lago
- Centro de Ciências Naturais e Humanas, Universidade Federal do ABC, Santo André, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Josué de Moraes
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, Guarulhos, São Paulo, Brazil
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New evidence for tamoxifen as an antischistosomal agent: in vitro, in vivo and target fishing studies. Future Med Chem 2021; 13:945-957. [PMID: 33896196 DOI: 10.4155/fmc-2020-0311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Praziquantel is the only drug available to treat schistosomiasis, and there is an urgent demand for new anthelmintic agents. Methodology & results: We conducted in-depth in vitro and in vivo studies and report a target fishing investigation. In vitro, tamoxifen was active against adult and immature worms at low concentrations (<5 μM). Tamoxifen at a single dose (400 mg/kg) or once daily for five consecutive days (100 mg/kg/day) in mice harboring either adult (patent infection) or juvenile (prepatent infection) significantly reduced worm burden (30-70%) and egg production (70-90%). Target fishing studies revealed propionyl-CoA carboxylase as a potential target for tamoxifen in Schistosoma mansoni and glucose uptake by S. mansoni was also significantly reduced. Conclusion: Our results provide news evidence of antiparasitic effect of tamoxifen and reveal propionyl-CoA carboxylase as a potential target.
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Silva MP, Silva TM, Mengarda AC, Salvadori MC, Teixeira FS, Alencar SM, Luz Filho GC, Bueno-Silva B, de Moraes J. Brazilian red propolis exhibits antiparasitic properties in vitro and reduces worm burden and egg production in an mouse model harboring either early or chronic Schistosoma mansoni infection. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 264:113387. [PMID: 32918996 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.113387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2020] [Revised: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Propolis has been used in folk medicine for thousands of years and, in the past few decades, it has attracted renewed interest. Although propolis has been traditionally used in many communities worldwide against parasitic diseases, its effect against Schistosoma mansoni infection remains unclear. AIM OF THE STUDY To demonstrate the effects of Brazilian red propolis on Schistosoma mansoni ex vivo and in an animal model of schistosomiasis. MATERIALS AND METHODS In vitro, we monitored phenotypic and tegumental changes as well as the effects of the crude extract of propolis on pairing and egg production. In a mouse infected with either immature (early infection) or adult (chronic infection) worms, propolis was administered by oral gavage and we studied the influence of this natural product on worm burden and egg production. RESULTS Propolis 25 μg/mL reduced motility and caused 100% mortality of adult parasites ex vivo. Further analysis revealed a pronounced reduction in oviposition after exposure to propolis at sub-lethal concentrations. In addition, scanning electron microscopy showed morphological alterations in the tegument of schistosomes. In the animal model, propolis markedly reduced worm burden and egg production in both early and chronic S. mansoni infection when compared to untreated control animals. CONCLUSIONS The efficacy of Brazilian red propolis in both in vitro and in vivo studies suggests its potential anthelmintic properties against S. mansoni infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcos P Silva
- Núcleo de Pesquisa Em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, Guarulhos, SP, Brazil.
| | - Thiago M Silva
- Núcleo de Pesquisa Em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, Guarulhos, SP, Brazil.
| | - Ana C Mengarda
- Núcleo de Pesquisa Em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, Guarulhos, SP, Brazil.
| | - Maria C Salvadori
- Instituto de Física, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | | | - Severino M Alencar
- Escola Superior de Agricultura "Luiz de Queiroz", Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | | | - Bruno Bueno-Silva
- Departamento de Odontologia, Universidade Guarulhos, Guarulhos, SP, Brazil.
| | - Josué de Moraes
- Núcleo de Pesquisa Em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, Guarulhos, SP, Brazil.
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Antischistosomal properties of aurone derivatives against juvenile and adult worms of Schistosoma mansoni. Acta Trop 2021; 213:105741. [PMID: 33159900 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2020.105741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2020] [Revised: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a neglected disease caused by helminth flatworms of the genus Schistosoma, affecting over 240 million people in more than 70 countries. The treatment relies on a single drug, praziquantel, making urgent the discovery of new compounds. Aurones are a natural type of flavonoids that display interesting pharmacological activities, particularly as chemotherapeutic agents against parasites. In pursuit of treatment alternatives, the present work conducted an in vitro and in vivo antischistosomal investigation with aurone derivatives against Schistosoma mansoni. After preparation of aurone derivatives and their in vitro evaluation on adult schistosomes, the three most active aurones were evaluated in cytotoxicity and haemolytic assays, as well as in confocal laser-scanning microscope studies, showing tegumental damage in parasites in a concentration-dependent manner with no haemolytic or cytotoxic potential toward mammalian cells. In a mouse model of schistosomiasis, at a single oral dose of 400 mg/kg, the selected aurones showed worm burden reductions of 35% to 65.0% and egg reductions of 25% to 70.0%. The most active thiophenyl aurone derivative 18, unlike PZQ, had efficacy in mice harboring juvenile S. mansoni, also showing significant inhibition of oviposition by parasites, giving support for the antiparasitic potential of aurones as lead compounds for novel antischistosomal drugs.
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26
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Sessa DP, Mengarda AC, Simplicio PE, Antar GM, Lago JHG, de Moraes J. 15β-Senecioyl-oxy- ent-kaur-16-en-19-oic Acid, a Diterpene Isolated from Baccharis lateralis, as Promising Oral Compound for the Treatment of Schistosomiasis. JOURNAL OF NATURAL PRODUCTS 2020; 83:3744-3750. [PMID: 33236902 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jnatprod.0c01050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Praziquantel is the only available drug to treat schistosomiasis, and therefore, urgent studies must be performed to identify new anthelmintic agents. This study reports the anthelmintic evaluation of two related ent-kaurane diterpenes isolated from aerial parts of Baccharis lateralis (Asteraceae), ent-kaur-16-en-19-oic acid (1) and 15β-senecioyl-oxy-ent-kaur-16-en-19-oic acid (2) against Schistosoma mansoni in vitro and in a murine model of schistosomiasis. Both compounds exhibited in vitro activity with lethal concentration 50% (LC50) values of 26.1 μM (1) and 11.6 μM (2) as well as reduced toxicity against human cell lines, revealing a good selectivity profile, mainly with compound 2 (selectivity index > 10). Compound 2 also decreased egg production and caused morphological alterations in the parasite reproductive system. In mice infected with S. mansoni, oral treatment with compound 2 at 400 mg/kg, the standard dose used in this model of schistosomiasis, caused a significant reduction in a total worm burden of 61.9% (P < 0.01). S. mansoni egg production, a key mechanism for both transmission and pathogenesis, was also markedly reduced. In addition, compound 2 achieved a significant reduction in hepatosplenomegaly. Therefore, the diterpene 15β-senecioyl-oxy-ent-kaur-16-en-19-oic acid (2) has an acceptable cytotoxicity profile and is orally active in a murine schistosomiasis model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah P Sessa
- Centro de Ciências Naturais e Humanas, Universidade Federal do ABC, Santo André, São Paulo 09210-180, Brazil
| | - Ana C Mengarda
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, Guarulhos, São Paulo 07023-070, Brazil
| | - Paula E Simplicio
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, Guarulhos, São Paulo 07023-070, Brazil
| | - Guilherme M Antar
- Departamento de Botânica, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-090, Brazil
| | - João Henrique G Lago
- Centro de Ciências Naturais e Humanas, Universidade Federal do ABC, Santo André, São Paulo 09210-180, Brazil
| | - Josué de Moraes
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, Guarulhos, São Paulo 07023-070, Brazil
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Juárez-López D, Schcolnik-Cabrera A. Drug Repurposing: Considerations to Surpass While Re-directing Old Compounds for New Treatments. Arch Med Res 2020; 52:243-251. [PMID: 33190955 DOI: 10.1016/j.arcmed.2020.10.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Revised: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Drug repurposing has increased in recent years as an attractive option for treating a number of diseases. Compared to those brought forward via traditional chemical development, drugs intended for repurposing can enter the market faster and with lower investment from pharmaceutical companies. However, a common trend is to focus on diseases that yield higher returns to the industry, such as cancer and common metabolic and inflammatory conditions, resulting in orphan illnesses and neglected tropical diseases having fewer repurposing options for affected patients. In addition, certain legal concerns, including limited patent coverage for the repurposed drugs and pharmacological challenges in performing clinical trials, reduce the likelihood of success. In this review, we discuss the most important concerns that affect the pathway of drug repurposing, with special emphasis on the economic revenues, government-industry associations, and legal considerations that together impact the pharmaceutical industry's decision-making on which compounds may be eligible for repurposing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Juárez-López
- Posgrado en Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Alejandro Schcolnik-Cabrera
- Département de Biochimie et Médecine Moléculaire, Université de Montréal, Succursale Centre-Ville, Montréal, QC, Canada; Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Centre, Montréal, QC, Canada.
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In vitro and in vivo evaluation of cnicin from blessed thistle (Centaurea benedicta) and its inclusion complexes with cyclodextrins against Schistosoma mansoni. Parasitol Res 2020; 120:1321-1333. [PMID: 33164156 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-020-06963-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis, caused by a blood fluke of the genus Schistosoma, afflicts over 230 million people worldwide. Treatment of the disease relies on just one drug, praziquantel. Cnicin (Cn) is the sesquiterpene lactone found in blessed thistle (Centaurea benedicta) that showed antiparasitic activities but has not been evaluated against Schistosoma. However, cnicin has poor water solubility, which may limit its antiparasitic activities. To overcome these restrictions, inclusion complexes with cyclodextrins may be used. In this work, we evaluated the in vitro and in vivo antischistosomal activities of cnicin and its complexes with β-cyclodextrin (βCD) and 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HPβCD) against Schistosoma mansoni. Cnicin were isolated from C. benedicta by chromatographic fractionation. Complexes formed by cnicin and βCD (Cn/βCD), as well as by cnicin and HPβCD (Cn/HPβCD), were prepared by coprecipitation and characterized. In vitro schistosomicidal assays were used to evaluate the effects of cnicin and its complexes on adult schistosomes, while the in vivo antischistosomal assays were evaluated by oral and intraperitoneal routes. Results showed that cnicin caused mortality and tegumental alterations in adult schistosomes in vitro, also showing in vivo efficacy after intraperitoneal administration. The oral treatment with cnicin or Cn/βCD showed no significant worm reductions in a mouse model of schistosomiasis. In contrast, Cn/HPβCD complex, when orally or intraperitoneally administered to S. mansoni-infected mice, decreased the total worm load, and markedly reduced the number of eggs, showing high in vivo antischistosomal effectiveness. Permeability studies, using Nile red, indicated that HPβCD complex may reach the tegument of adult schistosomes in vivo. These results demonstrated the antischistosomal potential of cnicin in preparations with HPβCD.
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Therapeutic Effect of Diminazene Aceturate on Parasitic Blood Fluke Schistosoma mansoni Infection. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2020; 64:AAC.01372-20. [PMID: 32816737 DOI: 10.1128/aac.01372-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Praziquantel is currently the only drug available to treat schistosomiasis, a disease of enormous public health significance caused by a blood fluke of the genus Schistosoma Diminazene, a drug approved by the FDA, has been successfully used to treat diseases caused by blood protozoan parasites. In this study, we evaluated the antiparasitic properties of diminazene against Schistosoma mansoni ex vivo and in mice harboring either chronic or early S. mansoni infections. In vitro, we monitored phenotypic and tegumental changes as well as the effects of the drug on pairing and egg production. In mice infected with either adult (chronic infection) or immature (early infection) worms, diminazene was administered intraperitoneally (10 to 100 mg/kg of body weight) or by oral gavage (100 to 400 mg/kg), and we studied the influence of the drug on worm burden and egg production. Liver and spleen pathologies and serum aminotransferase levels were also analyzed. In vitro, 50% effective concentrations (EC50) and EC90 revealed that diminazene is able to kill both immature and adult parasites, and its effect was time and concentration dependent. In addition, confocal laser scanning microscopy showed morphological alterations in the teguments of schistosomes. In an animal model, the influence of the drug on worm burden, egg production, hepatomegaly, and splenomegaly depended on the dosing regimen applied and the route of administration. Diminazene also caused a significant reduction in aminotransferase levels. Comparatively, diminazene treatment was more effective in chronic infection than in early infection. In tandem, our study revealed that diminazene possesses anthelmintic properties and inhibits liver injury caused by Schistosoma eggs.
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Keiser J, Koch V, Deckers A, Cheung HTA, Jung N, Bräse S. Naturally Occurring Cardenolides Affecting Schistosoma mansoni. ACS Infect Dis 2020; 6:1922-1927. [PMID: 32364372 PMCID: PMC7359852 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.0c00175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease of considerable public health burden. We recently discovered a micromolar activity of several cardenolides against newly transformed schistosomula (NTS) of the parasitic flatworm Schistosoma mansoni in a small compound screen including different substance classes of both natural products as well as synthetic molecules. In further experiments, a focused library of naturally occurring and synthetic steroids was explored against NTS and adult S. mansoni, revealing seven cardenolides with comparable activities as known anthelminthics such as praziquantel. Of these, gomphoside monoacetate and uscharin showed suitable therapeutic indices. In a first in vivo study, at a dose of 10 mg/kg, only minor activity in mice harboring a chronic S. mansoni infection could be shown, which will be further investigated by structure-activity relationship studies as well as pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Keiser
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Socinstrasse 57, CH-4051 Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, CH-4003 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Vanessa Koch
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Fritz-Haber-Weg 6, 76131 Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Anke Deckers
- Institute of Biological and Chemical Systems, Functional Molecular Systems (IBCS-FMS), Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Hermann-von-Helmholtz-Platz 1, 76344 Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen, Germany
| | - H. T. Andrew Cheung
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia
| | - Nicole Jung
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Fritz-Haber-Weg 6, 76131 Karlsruhe, Germany
- Institute of Biological and Chemical Systems, Functional Molecular Systems (IBCS-FMS), Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Hermann-von-Helmholtz-Platz 1, 76344 Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen, Germany
| | - Stefan Bräse
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Fritz-Haber-Weg 6, 76131 Karlsruhe, Germany
- Institute of Biological and Chemical Systems, Functional Molecular Systems (IBCS-FMS), Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Hermann-von-Helmholtz-Platz 1, 76344 Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen, Germany
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Xavier RP, Mengarda AC, Silva MP, Roquini DB, Salvadori MC, Teixeira FS, Pinto PL, Morais TR, Ferreira LLG, Andricopulo AD, de Moraes J. H1-antihistamines as antischistosomal drugs: in vitro and in vivo studies. Parasit Vectors 2020; 13:278. [PMID: 32487175 PMCID: PMC7268501 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-04140-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Schistosomiasis is a socioeconomically devastating parasitic infection afflicting hundreds of millions of people and animals worldwide. It is the most important helminth infection, and its treatment relies solely on the drug praziquantel. Oral H1-antihistamines are available worldwide, and these agents are among the most widely used of all medications in children and adults. Given the importance of the drug repositioning strategy, we evaluated the antischistosomal properties of the H1-antihistamine drugs commonly used in clinical practices. Methods Twenty-one antihistamine drugs were initially screened against adult schistosomes ex vivo. Subsequently, we investigated the anthelmintic properties of these antihistamines in a murine model of schistosomiasis for both early and chronic S. mansoni infections at oral dosages of 400 mg/kg single dose or 100 mg/kg daily for five consecutive days. We also demonstrated and described the ability of three antihistamines to induce tegumental damage in schistosomes through the use of scanning electron microscopy. Results From phenotypic screening, we found that desloratadine, rupatadine, promethazine, and cinnarizine kill adult S. mansoni in vitro at low concentrations (5–15 µM). These results were further supported by scanning electron microscopy analysis. In an animal model, rupatadine and cinnarizine revealed moderate worm burden reductions in mice harboring either early or chronic S. mansoni infection. Egg production, a key mechanism for both transmission and pathogenesis, was also markedly inhibited by rupatadine and cinnarizine, and a significant reduction in hepatomegaly and splenomegaly was recorded. Although less effective, desloratadine also revealed significant activity against the adult and juvenile parasites. Conclusions Although the worm burden reductions achieved are all only moderate, comparatively, treatment with any of the three antihistamines is more effective in early infection than praziquantel. On the other hand, the clinical use of H1-antihistamines for the treatment of schistosomiasis is highly unlikely.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Rogério P Xavier
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, Guarulhos, SP, Brazil
| | - Ana C Mengarda
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, Guarulhos, SP, Brazil
| | - Marcos P Silva
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, Guarulhos, SP, Brazil
| | - Daniel B Roquini
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, Guarulhos, SP, Brazil
| | - Maria C Salvadori
- Instituto de Física, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Pedro L Pinto
- Núcleo de Enteroparasitas, Instituto Adolfo Lutz, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Thiago R Morais
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, Guarulhos, SP, Brazil
| | - Leonardo L G Ferreira
- Laboratório de Química Medicinal e Computacional, Instituto de Física de São Carlos, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Adriano D Andricopulo
- Laboratório de Química Medicinal e Computacional, Instituto de Física de São Carlos, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Josué de Moraes
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, Guarulhos, SP, Brazil.
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Mengarda AC, Mendonça PS, Morais CS, Cogo RM, Mazloum SF, Salvadori MC, Teixeira FS, Morais TR, Antar GM, Lago JHG, Moraes J. Antiparasitic activity of piplartine (piperlongumine) in a mouse model of schistosomiasis. Acta Trop 2020; 205:105350. [PMID: 31962096 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2020.105350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2019] [Revised: 12/30/2019] [Accepted: 01/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is one of the most important parasitic infections in terms of its negative effects on public health and economics. Since praziquantel is currently the only drug available to treat schistosomiasis, there is an urgent need to identify new anthelmintic agents. Piplartine, also known as piperlongumine, is a biologically active alkaloid/amide from peppers that can be detected in high amounts in the roots of Piper tuberculatum. Previously, it has been shown to have in vitro schistosomicidal effects. However, its anthelmintic activity in an animal host has not been reported. In the present work, in vivo antischistosomal properties of isolated piplartine were evaluated in a mouse model of schistosomiasis infected with either adult (patent infection) or juvenile (pre-patent infection) stages of Schistosoma mansoni. A single dose of piplartine (100, 200 or 400 mg/kg) or daily doses for five consecutive days (100 mg/kg/day) administered orally to mice infected with schistosomes resulted in a reduction in worm burden and egg production. Treatment with the highest piplartine dose (400 mg/kg) caused a significant reduction in a total worm burden of 60.4% (P < 0.001) in mice harbouring adult parasites. S. mansoni egg production, a process responsible for pathology in schistosomiasis, was also significantly inhibited by piplartine. Studies using scanning electron microscopy revealed substantial tegumental alterations in parasites recovered from mice. Since piplartine has well-characterized mechanisms of toxicity, is easily available, and is cost-effective, our results indicate that this bioactive molecule derived from medicinal plants could be a potential lead compound for novel antischistosomal agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana C Mengarda
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, Praça Tereza Cristina, 229, Centro, 07023-070, Guarulhos, SP, Brazil
| | - Poliana S Mendonça
- Centro de Ciências Naturais e Humanas, Universidade Federal do ABC, Santo André, São Paulo, 09210-180, Brazil
| | - Cristiane S Morais
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, Praça Tereza Cristina, 229, Centro, 07023-070, Guarulhos, SP, Brazil
| | - Ramon M Cogo
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, Praça Tereza Cristina, 229, Centro, 07023-070, Guarulhos, SP, Brazil
| | - Susana F Mazloum
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, Praça Tereza Cristina, 229, Centro, 07023-070, Guarulhos, SP, Brazil
| | - Maria C Salvadori
- Instituto de Física, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Thiago R Morais
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, Praça Tereza Cristina, 229, Centro, 07023-070, Guarulhos, SP, Brazil
| | - Guilherme M Antar
- Departamento de Botânica, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade de São Paulo, 05508-090, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - João Henrique G Lago
- Centro de Ciências Naturais e Humanas, Universidade Federal do ABC, Santo André, São Paulo, 09210-180, Brazil
| | - Josué Moraes
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Guarulhos, Praça Tereza Cristina, 229, Centro, 07023-070, Guarulhos, SP, Brazil.
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Dziwornu GA, Attram HD, Gachuhi S, Chibale K. Chemotherapy for human schistosomiasis: how far have we come? What's new? Where do we go from here? RSC Med Chem 2020; 11:455-490. [PMID: 33479649 PMCID: PMC7593896 DOI: 10.1039/d0md00062k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Globally, schistosomiasis threatens more than 700 million lives, mostly children, in poor localities of tropical and sub-tropical areas with morbidity due to acute and chronic pathological manifestations of the disease. After a century since the first antimonial-based drugs were introduced to treat the disease, anti-schistosomiasis drug development is again at a bottleneck with only one drug, praziquantel, available for treatment purposes. This review focuses on promising chemotypes as potential starting points in a drug discovery effort to meet the urgent need for new schistosomicides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Godwin Akpeko Dziwornu
- Department of Chemistry , University of Cape Town , Rondebosch 7701 , South Africa . ; Tel: +27 21 6502553
| | - Henrietta Dede Attram
- Department of Chemistry , University of Cape Town , Rondebosch 7701 , South Africa . ; Tel: +27 21 6502553
| | - Samuel Gachuhi
- Department of Chemistry , University of Cape Town , Rondebosch 7701 , South Africa . ; Tel: +27 21 6502553
| | - Kelly Chibale
- Department of Chemistry , University of Cape Town , Rondebosch 7701 , South Africa . ; Tel: +27 21 6502553
- Drug Discovery and Development Centre (H3D) , University of Cape Town , Rondebosch 7701 , South Africa
- Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine , University of Cape Town , Rondebosch 7701 , South Africa
- South African Medical Research Council Drug Discovery and Development Research Unit , University of Cape Town , Rondebosch 7701 , South Africa
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Promethazine exhibits antiparasitic properties in vitro and reduces worm burden, egg production, hepato-, and splenomegaly in a schistosomiasis animal model. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2019:AAC.01208-19. [PMID: 31527034 DOI: 10.1128/aac.01208-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The treatment and control of schistosomiasis, a neglected disease that affects more than 200 million people worldwide, rely on the use of a single drug, praziquantel. A vaccine has yet to be developed and since new drug design and development is a lengthy and costly process, drug repurposing is a promising strategy. In this study, the efficacy of promethazine, a first-generation antihistamine, was evaluated against Schistosoma mansoni ex vivo and in a murine model of schistosomiasis. In vitro assays demonstrated that promethazine affected parasite motility, viability, and it induced severe tegumental damage in schistosomes. The LC50 of the drug was 5.84 μM. Similar to promethazine, schistosomes incubated with atropine, a classical anticholinergic drug, displayed reduced motor activity. In an animal model, promethazine treatment was introduced at an oral dose of 100 mg/kg for five successive days at different intervals from the time of infection, for the evaluation of the stage-specific susceptibility (pre-patent and patent infections). Various parasitological criteria indicated the in vivo antischistosomal effects of promethazine: there were significant reductions in worm burden, egg production, and hepato- and splenomegaly. The highest worm burden reduction was achieved with promethazine in patent infections (> 90%). Taken together, considering the importance of the repositioning of drugs in infectious diseases, especially those related to poverty, our data revealed the possibility of promethazine repositioning as an antischistosomal agent.
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Lago EM, Silva MP, Queiroz TG, Mazloum SF, Rodrigues VC, Carnaúba PU, Pinto PL, Rocha JA, Ferreira LLG, Andricopulo AD, de Moraes J. Phenotypic screening of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs identified mefenamic acid as a drug for the treatment of schistosomiasis. EBioMedicine 2019; 43:370-379. [PMID: 31027918 PMCID: PMC6557910 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2019.04.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2019] [Revised: 04/04/2019] [Accepted: 04/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Treatment and control of schistosomiasis, one of the most insidious and serious parasitic diseases, depend almost entirely on a single drug, praziquantel. Since the funding for drug development for poverty-associated diseases is very limited, drug repurposing is a promising strategy. In this study, 73 nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) commonly used in medical and veterinary fields were evaluated for their anti-schistosomal properties. Methods The efficacy of NSAIDs was first tested against adult Schistosoma mansoni ex vivo using phenotypic screening strategy, effective drugs were further tested in a murine model of schistosomiasis. The disease parameters measured were worm and egg burden, hepato- and splenomegaly. Findings From 73 NSAIDs, five (mefenamic acid, tolfenamic acid, meclofenamic acid, celecoxib, and diclofenac) were identified to effectively kill schistosomes. These results were further supported by scanning electron microscopy analysis. In addition, the octanol-water partition coefficient, both for neutral and ionized species, revealed to be a critical property for the ex vivo activity profile. Compounds were then tested in vivo using both patent and a prepatent S. mansoni infection in a mouse model. The most effective NSAID was mefenamic acid, which highly reduced worm burden, egg production, and hepato- and splenomegaly. Interpretation The treatment regimen used in this study is within the range for which mefenamic acid has been used in clinical practice, thus, it is demonstrated the capacity of mefenamic acid to act as a potent anti-schistosomal agent suitable for clinical repurposing in the treatment of schistosomiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eloi M Lago
- Research Center for Neglected Diseases, University of Guarulhos, Praça Tereza Cristina, 229, Centro, 07023-070, Guarulhos, SP, Brazil
| | - Marcos P Silva
- Research Center for Neglected Diseases, University of Guarulhos, Praça Tereza Cristina, 229, Centro, 07023-070, Guarulhos, SP, Brazil
| | - Talita G Queiroz
- Research Center for Neglected Diseases, University of Guarulhos, Praça Tereza Cristina, 229, Centro, 07023-070, Guarulhos, SP, Brazil
| | - Susana F Mazloum
- Research Center for Neglected Diseases, University of Guarulhos, Praça Tereza Cristina, 229, Centro, 07023-070, Guarulhos, SP, Brazil
| | - Vinícius C Rodrigues
- Research Center for Neglected Diseases, University of Guarulhos, Praça Tereza Cristina, 229, Centro, 07023-070, Guarulhos, SP, Brazil
| | - Paulo U Carnaúba
- Research Center for Neglected Diseases, University of Guarulhos, Praça Tereza Cristina, 229, Centro, 07023-070, Guarulhos, SP, Brazil
| | - Pedro L Pinto
- Center for Research in Parasitology, Adolfo Lutz Institute, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Jefferson A Rocha
- Research Group of Natural Science and Biotechnology, Federal University of Maranhão, Grajaú, MA, 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 Sao Paulo, São Carlos, SP, 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 Sao Paulo, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Josué de Moraes
- Research Center for Neglected Diseases, University of Guarulhos, Praça Tereza Cristina, 229, Centro, 07023-070, Guarulhos, SP, Brazil.
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