1
|
Xiang F, Zhang Z, Li Y, Li M, Xie J, Sun M, Peng Q, Lin L. Research progress in the treatment of schistosomiasis with traditional Chinese medicine. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 333:118501. [PMID: 38944361 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.118501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/01/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Schistosomiasis, caused by infection with organisms of the Schistoma genus, is a parasitic and infectious disease that poses a significant risk to human health. Schistosomiasis has been a widespread issue in China for at least 2000 years. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has a rich history of treating this disease, and the significant theoretical and practical knowledge attained therein may be useful in modern practice. AIM OF THE STUDY To comprehensively review TCM for the treatment of schistosomiasis, summarize the molecular basis, mechanism of action, active ingredients and formulas of TCM, and clarify the value of TCM for expanding drug options for the clinical treatment of schistosomiasis. MATERIALS AND METHODS In PubMed, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar and CNKI databases, "Schistosomiasis", "Schistosoma mansoni", "Schistosoma japonicum", "Liver fibrosis" and "Granuloma" were used as the key words. Information related to in vivo animal studies and clinical studies of TCM for the treatment of schistosomiasis in the past 25 years was retrieved, and the inclusion criteria focused on medicinal plants that had a history of use in China. RESULTS In this study, we collected and organized a large amount of literature on the treatment of schistosomiasis by TCM. TCM exerts therapeutic effects through antischistosomal and immunomodulatory effects, suppresses HSC activation and proliferation, reduces ECM deposition, and inhibits oxidative stress and other activities. The treatment of schistosomiasis by TCM has a unique advantage, especially for the treatment of schistosomal liver fibrosis, and the treatment of schistosomiasis with TCM in combination with praziquantel is superior to monotherapy. CONCLUSION Schistosomiasis remains a global public health problem, and TCM has made significant progress in the prevention and treatment of schistosomiasis and is a potential source of drugs for the treatment of schistosomiasis. However, research on drug screening and the mechanism of action of TCM for the treatment of schistosomiasis is lacking, and further studies and research are needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Feng Xiang
- Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Bulk Herbs of Hunan Province, School of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, No.300 Xueshi Road, Changsha, 410208, China.
| | - Zhimin Zhang
- Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Bulk Herbs of Hunan Province, School of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, No.300 Xueshi Road, Changsha, 410208, China.
| | - Yamei Li
- Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Bulk Herbs of Hunan Province, School of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, No.300 Xueshi Road, Changsha, 410208, China.
| | - Minjie Li
- Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Bulk Herbs of Hunan Province, School of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, No.300 Xueshi Road, Changsha, 410208, China.
| | - Jingchen Xie
- Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Bulk Herbs of Hunan Province, School of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, No.300 Xueshi Road, Changsha, 410208, China.
| | - Miao Sun
- Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Bulk Herbs of Hunan Province, School of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, No.300 Xueshi Road, Changsha, 410208, China.
| | - Qinghua Peng
- Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, No.300 Xueshi Road, Changsha, 410208, China.
| | - Limei Lin
- Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Bulk Herbs of Hunan Province, School of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, No.300 Xueshi Road, Changsha, 410208, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Zhao B, Liu K, Liu X, Li Q, Li Z, Xi J, Xie F, Li X. Plant-derived flavonoids are a potential source of drugs for the treatment of liver fibrosis. Phytother Res 2024; 38:3122-3145. [PMID: 38613172 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.8193] [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: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a dynamic pathological process that can be triggered by any chronic liver injury. If left unaddressed, it will inevitably progress to the severe outcomes of liver cirrhosis or even hepatocellular carcinoma. In the past few years, the prevalence and fatality of hepatic fibrosis have been steadily rising on a global scale. As a result of its intricate pathogenesis, the quest for pharmacological interventions targeting liver fibrosis has remained a formidable challenge. Currently, no pharmaceuticals are exhibiting substantial clinical efficacy in the management of hepatic fibrosis. Hence, it is of utmost importance to expedite the development of novel therapeutics for the treatment of this condition. Various research studies have revealed the ability of different natural flavonoid compounds to alleviate or reverse hepatic fibrosis through a range of mechanisms, which are related to the regulation of liver inflammation, oxidative stress, synthesis and secretion of fibrosis-related factors, hepatic stellate cells activation, and proliferation, and extracellular matrix synthesis and degradation by these compounds. This review summarizes the progress of research on different sources of natural flavonoids with inhibitory effects on liver fibrosis over the last decades. The anti-fibrotic effects of natural flavonoids have been increasingly studied, making them a potential source of drugs for the treatment of liver fibrosis due to their good efficacy and biosafety.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bolin Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Kai Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Xing Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Qiuxia Li
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhibei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Jingjing Xi
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Fan Xie
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine 610032, China
| | - Xiaofang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Liu C, Fisher D, Pronyuk K, Musabaev E, Thu Hien NT, Dang Y, Zhao L. Therapeutic potential of natural products in schistosomiasis-associated liver fibrosis. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1332027. [PMID: 38770001 PMCID: PMC11102961 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1332027] [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: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease that endangers human health and social development. The granulomatous reaction of Schistosoma eggs in the liver is the main cause of hepatosplenomegaly and fibrotic lesions. Anti liver fibrosis therapy is crucial for patients with chronic schistosomiasis. Although Praziquantel is the only clinical drug used, it is limited in insecticide treatment and has a long-term large-scale use, which is forcing the search for cost-effective alternatives. Previous research has demonstrated that plant metabolites and extracts have effective therapeutic effects on liver fibrosis associated with schistosomiasis. This paper summarizes the mechanisms of action of metabolites and some plant extracts in alleviating schistosomiasis-associated liver fibrosis. The analysis was conducted using databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) databases. Some plant metabolites and extracts ameliorate liver fibrosis by targeting multiple signaling pathways, including reducing inflammatory infiltration, oxidative stress, inhibiting alternate macrophage activation, suppressing hepatic stellate cell activation, and reducing worm egg load. Natural products improve liver fibrosis associated with schistosomiasis, but further research is needed to elucidate the effectiveness of natural products in treating liver fibrosis caused by schistosomiasis, as there is no reported data from clinical trials in the literature.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cuiling Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - David Fisher
- Department of Medical Biosciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Khrystyna Pronyuk
- Infectious Diseases Department, O.Bogomolets National Medical University, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Erkin Musabaev
- The Research Institute of Virology, Ministry of Health, Tashkent, Uzbekistan
| | | | - Yiping Dang
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Lei Zhao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Vanzan DF, Goma EP, Locatelli FR, Honorio TDS, Furtado PDS, Rodrigues CR, de Sousa VP, Mata dos Santos HA, do Carmo FA, Simon A, Pyrrho ADS, Ribeiro AJ, Cabral LM. Evaluation of Silybin Nanoparticles against Liver Damage in Murine Schistosomiasis mansoni Infection. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:618. [PMID: 38794280 PMCID: PMC11125168 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16050618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Silybin (SIB) is a hepatoprotective drug known for its poor oral bioavailability, attributed to its classification as a class IV drug with significant metabolism during the first-pass effect. This study explored the potential of solid lipid nanoparticles with (SLN-SIB-U) or without (SLN-SIB) ursodeoxycholic acid and polymeric nanoparticles (PN-SIB) as delivery systems for SIB. The efficacy of these nanosystems was assessed through in vitro studies using the GRX and Caco-2 cell lines for permeability and proliferation assays, respectively, as well as in vivo experiments employing a murine model of Schistosomiasis mansoni infection in BALB/c mice. The mean diameter and encapsulation efficiency of the nanosystems were as follows: SLN-SIB (252.8 ± 4.4 nm, 90.28 ± 2.2%), SLN-SIB-U (252.9 ± 14.4 nm, 77.05 ± 2.8%), and PN-SIB (241.8 ± 4.1 nm, 98.0 ± 0.2%). In the proliferation assay with the GRX cell line, SLN-SIB and SLN-SIB-U exhibited inhibitory effects of 43.09 ± 5.74% and 38.78 ± 3.78%, respectively, compared to PN-SIB, which showed no inhibitory effect. Moreover, SLN-SIB-U demonstrated a greater apparent permeability coefficient (25.82 ± 2.2) than PN-SIB (20.76 ± 0.1), which was twice as high as that of SLN-SIB (11.32 ± 4.6) and pure SIB (11.28 ± 0.2). These findings suggest that solid lipid nanosystems hold promise for further in vivo investigations. In the murine model of acute-phase Schistosomiasis mansoni infection, both SLN-SIB and SLN-SIB-U displayed hepatoprotective effects, as evidenced by lower alanine amino transferase values (22.89 ± 1.6 and 23.93 ± 2.4 U/L, respectively) than those in control groups I (29.55 ± 0.7 U/L) and I+SIB (34.29 ± 0.3 U/L). Among the prepared nanosystems, SLN-SIB-U emerges as a promising candidate for enhancing the pharmacokinetic properties of SIB.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Figueiredo Vanzan
- Department of Drugs and Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil; (D.F.V.); (F.A.d.C.)
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Ester Puna Goma
- Department of Drugs and Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil; (D.F.V.); (F.A.d.C.)
| | - Fernanda Resende Locatelli
- Department of Drugs and Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil; (D.F.V.); (F.A.d.C.)
| | - Thiago da Silva Honorio
- Department of Drugs and Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil; (D.F.V.); (F.A.d.C.)
| | - Priscila de Souza Furtado
- Department of Drugs and Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil; (D.F.V.); (F.A.d.C.)
| | - Carlos Rangel Rodrigues
- Department of Drugs and Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil; (D.F.V.); (F.A.d.C.)
| | - Valeria Pereira de Sousa
- Department of Drugs and Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil; (D.F.V.); (F.A.d.C.)
| | - Hilton Antônio Mata dos Santos
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Flávia Almada do Carmo
- Department of Drugs and Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil; (D.F.V.); (F.A.d.C.)
| | - Alice Simon
- Department of Drugs and Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil; (D.F.V.); (F.A.d.C.)
| | - Alexandre dos Santos Pyrrho
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
| | - António José Ribeiro
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal;
- Group Genetics of Cognitive Dysfunction, I3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
| | - Lucio Mendes Cabral
- Department of Drugs and Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil; (D.F.V.); (F.A.d.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Roeb E. Interleukin-13 (IL-13)-A Pleiotropic Cytokine Involved in Wound Healing and Fibrosis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12884. [PMID: 37629063 PMCID: PMC10454844 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241612884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The liver, as a central metabolic organ, is systemically linked to metabolic-inflammatory diseases. In the pathogenesis of the metabolic syndrome, inflammatory and metabolic interactions between the intestine, liver, and adipose tissue lead to the progression of hepatic steatosis to metabolic-dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) and consecutive MASH-induced fibrosis. Clinical and animal studies revealed that IL-13 might be protective in the development of MASH through both the preservation of metabolic functions and Th2-polarized inflammation in the liver and the adipose tissue. In contrast, IL-13-associated loss of mucosal gut barrier function and IL-13-associated enhanced hepatic fibrosis may contribute to the progression of MASH. However, there are only a few publications on the effect of IL-13 on metabolic diseases and possible therapies to influence them. In this review article, different aspects of IL-13-associated effects on the liver and metabolic liver diseases, which are partly contradictory, are summarized and discussed on the basis of the recent literature.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elke Roeb
- Department of Gastroenterology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Klinikstr. 33, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
de Lima Aires A, de Araújo HDA, Galvão AM, de Araújo SB, da Silva RL, dos Anjos ZP, de Souza Maia MB, Souza VMO, de Azevedo Albuquerque MCP. Schistosomicidal, hepatoprotective and antioxidant activities of the N-acetyl-L-cysteine and/or praziquantel in experimental acute mansonic schistosomiasis. 3 Biotech 2023; 13:215. [PMID: 37251728 PMCID: PMC10219907 DOI: 10.1007/s13205-023-03639-3] [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] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a tropical parasitic disease, in which the major clinical manifestation includes hepatosplenomegaly, portal hypertension, and organs fibrosis. Clinically, treatment of schistosomiasis involves the use of praziquantel (PZQ) and supportive care, which does not improve the patient's outcome as liver injuries persist. Here, we report for the first time the effect of N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) and/or praziquantel (PQZ) on S. mansoni, hepatic granuloma, serum markers for liver function and oxidative damage in acute schistosomiasis. Infected mice were divided into control, NAC, PZQ and NAC+PZQ groups and uninfected into control and NAC groups. After infection, NAC (200 mg/kg/day) was administrated until the 60th day and PZQ (100 mg/kg/day) from the 45th to the 49th day, both orally. On day 61, the mice were euthanized for serum markers for liver function. Worms were recovered, fragments of intestine employed to ascertain the oviposition pattern, and the liver was used for histopathological analysis, histomorphometry, egg and granuloma counting and oxidative stress marker assays. NAC reduced the burden of worms and eggs and increased the dead eggs in intestinal tissue. NAC+PZQ brought about reduction in granulomatous infiltration and NAC and/or PZQ reduced levels of ALT, AST, and alkaline phosphatase and increased albumin. NAC, PZQ or NAC+PZQ reduced levels of the superoxide anion, lipid peroxidation and protein carbonyl and increased sulfhydryl groups. The reduction in parasitological parameters, granulomatous inflammation and oxy-redox imbalance suggests NAC acts as a adjuvant in treatment of acute experimental schistosomiasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- André de Lima Aires
- Centro de Ciências Médicas-Área Acadêmica de Medicina Tropical, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco Brazil
- Instituto Keizo Asami (iLIKA), Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco Brazil
| | - Hallysson Douglas Andrade de Araújo
- Instituto Keizo Asami (iLIKA), Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco Brazil
- Centro de Biociências, Departamento de Bioquímica, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco Brazil
| | - André Martins Galvão
- Centro de Biociências, Departamento de Fisiologia e Farmacologia, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco Brazil
| | - Sidcley Bernardino de Araújo
- Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco Brazil
| | | | - Zilma Pereira dos Anjos
- Instituto Keizo Asami (iLIKA), Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco Brazil
| | - Maria Bernadete de Souza Maia
- Centro de Biociências, Departamento de Fisiologia e Farmacologia, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco Brazil
| | - Valdênia Maria Oliveira Souza
- Instituto Keizo Asami (iLIKA), Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco Brazil
- Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco Brazil
| | - Mônica Camelo Pessôa de Azevedo Albuquerque
- Centro de Ciências Médicas-Área Acadêmica de Medicina Tropical, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco Brazil
- Instituto Keizo Asami (iLIKA), Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco Brazil
- Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Plants-based medicine implication in the evolution of chronic liver diseases. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 158:114207. [PMID: 36916432 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.114207] [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: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatic disorders are considered major health problems, due to their high incidence, increased risk of chronicling or death and the costs involved in therapies. A large number of patients with chronic liver diseases use herbal medicines and dietary supplements in parallel with allopathic treatment. The current review provides a thorough analysis of the studies conducted on the most important species of medicinal plants used in this disease, bioactive compounds and on the activity of herbal medicines in the evolution of chronic liver diseases. However, a negative aspect is that there is frequently a lack of comprehensive data on the progression of the illness and the living standards of patients who are affected when evaluating the effects of these phytocomponents on the evolution of chronic liver disease, the patients' health, and their quality of life. It is essential to take this impairment into account when evaluating the long-term effects of herbal treatments on the health of individuals who suffer from liver illness. Bioactive phytocomponents may be a suitable source for the development of novel medications due to the correlation between traditional uses and medical advances. Additional high-quality preclinical examinations utilizing cutting-edge approaches are needed to assess safety and effectiveness and to detect, categorize, and standardize the active substances and their formulations for the most suitable therapeutic management of liver illnesses.
Collapse
|
8
|
Selim NM, Melk MM, Melek FR, Saleh DO, Sobeh M, El-Hawary SS. Phytochemical profiling and anti-fibrotic activities of Plumbago indica L. and Plumbago auriculata Lam. in thioacetamide-induced liver fibrosis in rats. Sci Rep 2022; 12:9864. [PMID: 35701526 PMCID: PMC9197831 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-13718-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed at investigating the chemical composition and the hepatoprotective activities of Plumbago indica L. and P. auriculata Lam. LC-MS/MS analyses for the hydroalcoholic extracts of the aerial parts of the two Plumbago species allowed the tentative identification of thirty and twenty-five compounds from P. indica and P. auriculata, respectively. The biochemical and histopathological alterations associated with thioacetamide (TAA)-induced liver fibrosis in rats were evaluated in vivo where rats received the two extracts at three different dose levels (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg p.o, daily) for 15 consecutive days with induction of hepatotoxicity by TAA (200 mg/kg/day, i.p.) at 14th and 15th days. Results of the present study showed a significant restoration in liver function biomarkers viz. alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), gamma glutamyl transferase and total bilirubin. The liver homogenates exhibited increased levels of antioxidant biomarkers: reduced glutathione (GSH) and catalase (CAT), accompanied with decline in malondialdehyde (MDA). Furthermore, treated groups exhibited a significant suppression in liver inflammatory cytokines: tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interlukin-6 (IL-6), and fibrotic biomarker: alpha smooth muscle relaxant. Histopathological examination of the liver showed normality of hepatocytes. Noteworthy, P. indica extract showed better hepatoprotective activity than P. auriculata, particularly at 200 mg/kg. To sum up, all these results indicated the hepatoprotective properties of both extracts, as well as their antifibrotic effect was evidenced by reduction in hepatic collagen deposition. However, additional experiments are required to isolate their individual secondary metabolites, assess the toxicity of the extracts and explore the involved mechanism of action.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nabil Mohamed Selim
- Pharmacognosy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Giza, 12613, Egypt.
| | - Mina Michael Melk
- Pharmacognosy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Giza, 12613, Egypt
| | - Farouk Rasmy Melek
- Chemistry of Natural Compounds Department, National Research Centre, Giza, 12622, Egypt
| | - Dalia Osama Saleh
- Pharmacology Department, National Research Centre, Giza, 12622, Egypt
| | - Mansour Sobeh
- AgroBioSciences, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, Lot 660-Hay MoulayRachid, 43150, Benguerir, Morocco
| | - Seham S El-Hawary
- Pharmacognosy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Giza, 12613, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Sabra ANA, Salem MB, William S, Hammam OA, El-Lakkany NM. Itraconazole, a cytochrome P450 inhibitor, enhanced the efficacy of praziquantel against Schistosoma mansoni infection and alleviated liver injury in mice. Exp Parasitol 2022; 239:108293. [PMID: 35667394 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2022.108293] [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: 02/13/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Treatment of schistosomiasis is heavily reliant on the single antischistosomal drug praziquantel (PZQ). The use of synergistic drug-drug interactions is one possible solution, which could be used to mitigate PZQ's poor and variable bioavailability. Itraconazole (ITZ), a triazole antifungal agent, is a potent CYP3A inhibitor that can cause significant drug-drug interactions when used with CYP3A substrates. This study investigates the effect of ITZ as adjuvant therapy with PZQ on worm load, egg deposition and maturation, and the consequent histopathology and biochemical abnormalities in the liver during the immature and mature stages of Schistosoma mansoni (S. mansoni) infection. S. mansoni-infected mice were divided into five groups of eight-ten mice each: (I) infected untreated, (II) infected and treated with PZQ 3 weeks PI, (III) infected and treated with both ITZ and PZQ 3 weeks PI, (IV) infected and treated with PZQ 7 weeks PI, and (V) infected and treated with both ITZ and PZQ 7 weeks PI. All mice were killed by rapid decapitation 9 weeks PI. Data revealed that ITZ in combination with PZQ at both immature and mature stages improved the parasitological criteria of cure, and greatly reduced inflammation, granuloma and fibrotic tissue formation, and apoptosis versus PZQ alone. Furthermore, it showed the greatest impact on improving liver injury and oxidative stress markers. Notably, the effect was considerably stronger at the mature stage of S. mansoni infection. These findings support the notion that ITZ increased PZQ's antischistosomal activity by inhibiting CYP450 expression, potentially reducing PZQ metabolism and increasing systemic exposure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Maha B Salem
- Lecturer of Pharmacology, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Giza, Egypt.
| | - Samia William
- Professor of Parasitology, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Giza, Egypt.
| | - Olfat A Hammam
- Professor of Pathology, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Giza, Egypt.
| | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
El-Tantawy WH, Temraz A. Anti-fibrotic activity of natural products, herbal extracts and nutritional components for prevention of liver fibrosis: review. Arch Physiol Biochem 2022; 128:382-393. [PMID: 31711319 DOI: 10.1080/13813455.2019.1684952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a grave problem worldwide, and the development of this condition is the first step towards cirrhosis. In fact, when lesions of different aetiologies chronically affect the liver, it triggers fibrogenesis, the resulting damage and the progression of fibrosis cause serious clinical influences including severe complications, expensive treatments, and death in end-stage liver disease. Although impressive progress has been reported in understanding the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis, no effective agent has been developed to prevent or reverse the fibrotic process directly. This article reviews natural products, herbal medicines and nutritional components that exhibited an anti-fibrotic activity through different mechanisms of action, including suppressing of cytokine production, inhibition of hepatic stellate cells "HSCs" propagation, modulation of the molecular mechanisms leading to hepatic fibrosis, free radical scavenging and anti-inflammatory properties.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Abeer Temraz
- Pharmacognosy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy For Girls, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Cerium Oxide Nanoparticles Alleviate Hepatic Fibrosis Phenotypes In Vitro. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222111777. [PMID: 34769206 PMCID: PMC8584085 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Exposure to metallic nanoparticles (NPs) can result in inadvertent NP accumulation in body tissues. While their subsequent cellular interactions can lead to unintended consequences and are generally regarded as detrimental for health, they can on occasion mediate biologically beneficial effects. Among NPs, cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeO2 NP) possess strong antioxidant properties and have shown to alleviate certain pathological conditions. Herein, we show that the presence of cubic 25 nm CeO2 NP was able to reduce TGF-β-mediated activation in the cultured hepatic stellate cell line LX2 by reducing oxidative stress levels and TGF-β-mediated signalling. These cells displayed reduced classical liver fibrosis phenotypes, such as diminished fibrogenesis, altered matrix degradation, decreased cell motility, modified contractability and potentially lowered autophagy. These findings demonstrate that CeO2 NP may be able to ameliorate hepatic fibrosis and suggest a possible therapeutic pathway for an otherwise difficult-to-treat condition.
Collapse
|
12
|
Cell therapy as a new approach on hepatic fibrosis of murine model of Schistosoma mansoni-infection. Acta Parasitol 2021; 66:136-145. [PMID: 32816183 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-020-00267-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Schistosomiasis is an acute and chronic disease of the genus Schistosoma triggered by blood flukes. Schistosomiasis is a disease occurring in, or endemic to, tropical and subtropical regions. A new concept was implemented to deal with schistosomiasis from natural plant sources. Curcumin's common name is Turmeric. Curcumin has proven to be main active component in Curcuma longa L. and has a wide range of anti-phrastic effects. Previous studies have shown the role of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) therapy in hepatic fibrosis recovery. OBJECTIVE The current study was, therefore, intended to examine therapeutic role of BMSCs and Turmeric in murine schistosomiasis mansoni. ANIMALS Mice were divided into five groups: a negative control group (non-infected non-treated), a positive control group (infected non-treated), a BMSCs treated group; Turmeric treated group, and untreated group. BMSCs derived from male mice were injected intraperitoneally into female mice receiving S. mansoni cercariae through the subcutaneous route. Liver histopathology and immuno-histochemical examinations were evaluated. RESULTS BMSCs intraperitoneal injection resulted in a significant reduction of liver collagen, granuloma size, and significant increase of OV-6 expression in the Schistosomiasis-treated mice group. There was overall improvement in pathological changes of the liver. Unfortunately, group IV showed a mild improvement in the granuloma size and fibrosis compared to corresponding BMSCs treatment group, although with vacuolated liver cells. CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE BMSCs have a regenerative potential in liver tissue histopathology by decreasing liver fibrosis and granulomas. Turmeric, by contrast, could not be used as an anti-fibrotic, according to the findings.
Collapse
|
13
|
Antiparasitic Effects of Selected Isoflavones on Flatworms. Helminthologia 2021; 58:1-16. [PMID: 33664614 PMCID: PMC7912234 DOI: 10.2478/helm-2021-0004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Medicinal plants have been successfully used in the ethno medicine for a wide range of diseases since ancient times. The research on natural products has allowed the discovery of biologically relevant compounds inspired by plant secondary metabolites, what contributed to the development of many chemotherapeutic drugs. Flavonoids represent a group of therapeutically very effective plant secondary metabolites and selected molecules were shown to exert also antiparasitic activity. This work summarizes the recent knowledge generated within past three decades about potential parasitocidal activities of several flavonoids with different chemical structures, particularly on medically important flatworms such as Schistosoma spp., Fasciola spp., Echinococcus spp., Raillietina spp., and model cestode Mesocestoides vogae. Here we focus on curcumin, genistein, quercetin and silymarin complex of flavonolignans. All of them possess a whole spectrum of biological activities on eukaryotic cells which have multi-therapeutic effects in various diseases. In vitro they can induce profound alterations in the tegumental architecture and its functions as well as their activity can significantly modulate or damage worm´s metabolism directly by interaction with enzymes or signaling molecules in dose-dependent manner. Moreover, they seem to differentially regulate the RNA activity in numbers of worm´s genes. This review suggests that examined flavonoids and their derivates are promising molecules for antiparasitic drug research. Due to lack of toxicity, isoflavons could be used directly for therapy, or as adjuvant therapy for diseases caused by medically important cestodes and trematodes.
Collapse
|
14
|
Complexation with Random Methyl-β-Cyclodextrin and (2-Hydroxypropyl)-β-Cyclodextrin Promotes Chrysin Effect and Potential for Liver Fibrosis Therapy. MATERIALS 2020; 13:ma13215003. [PMID: 33171970 PMCID: PMC7664245 DOI: 10.3390/ma13215003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Revised: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 11/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis results from chronic liver injury and is characterized by the accumulation of extracellular matrix in excess driven by hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activation. Chrysin (CHR) is a natural flavonoid that is limited by its low solubility to exert its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-fibrotic properties. The aim of this study was to investigate the biocompatibility of CHR complexes with two cyclodextrins (CDs)-(2-hydroxypropyl)-β-cyclodextrin (HPBCD) and random methyl-β-cyclodextrin (RAMEB), and their potential to induce anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-fibrotic effects. Biocompatibility of the complexes was evaluated on Huh7 and LX2 cell lines: MTT and Live/Dead tests indicated the cell viability and an LDH test showed the cytotoxicity. Immunohistochemical staining of Nuclear Factor Kappa B (NF-κB) nuclear translocation was performed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effect of the complexes. Oxygen Radical Absorbance assay, Superoxide Dismutase activity and Glutathione Peroxidase (GPx) assays indicated the antioxidant properties of the chrysin complexes. Finally, the complexes’ anti-fibrotic potential was evaluated at the protein and gene level of α-sma. In HSCs, CDs induced higher cytotoxicity correlated with lower cell viability than CHR–CD. The 1:1 CHR–RAMEB pretreatment avoided p65 translocation. The 1:2 CHR–RAMEB complex increased ORAC values, improved SOD activity and produced the highest stimulation of GPx activity. CHR–RAMEB reduced α-sma expression at lower concentration than CHR–HPBCD, proving to be more efficient. In conclusion, both CHR–CD complexes proved to be biocompatible, but CHR–RAMEB showed improved anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-fibrotic effects that could recommend its further use in liver fibrosis treatment.
Collapse
|
15
|
Nono JK, Fu K, Mpotje T, Varrone G, Aziz NA, Mosala P, Hlaka L, Kamdem SD, Xu D, Spangenberg T, Brombacher F. Investigating the antifibrotic effect of the antiparasitic drug Praziquantel in in vitro and in vivo preclinical models. Sci Rep 2020; 10:10638. [PMID: 32606340 PMCID: PMC7327036 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-67514-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2019] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Tissue fibrosis underlies the majority of human mortality to date with close to half of all reported deaths having a fibrotic etiology. The progression of fibrosis is very complex and reputed irreversible once established. Although some preventive options are being reported, therapeutic options are still scarce and in very high demand, given the rise of diseases linked to fibroproliferative disorders. Our work explored four platforms, complementarily, in order to screen preventive and therapeutic potentials of the antiparasitic drug Praziquantel as a possible antifibrotic. We applied the mouse CCl4-driven liver fibrosis model, the mouse chronic schistosomiasis liver fibrosis model, as well as novel 2D and 3D human cell-based co-culture of human hepatocytes, KCs (Kupffer cells), LECs (Liver Endothelial Cells), HSCs (Hepatic Stellate Cells) and/or myofibroblasts to mimic in vivo fibrotic responses and dynamics. Praziquantel showed some effect on fibrosis marker when preventively administered before severe establishment of fibrosis. However, it failed to potently reverse already established fibrosis. Together, we provided a novel sophisticated multi-assay screening platform to test preventive and therapeutic antifibrotic candidates. We further demonstrated a direct preventive potential of Praziquantel against the onset of fibrosis and the confirmation of its lack of therapeutic potential in reversing already established fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Justin Komguep Nono
- Division of Immunology and South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) Immunology of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, 7925, South Africa.,International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Cape Town Component, Cape Town, 7925, South Africa.,The Medical Research Centre, Institute of Medical Research and Medicinal Plant Studies, Ministry of Scientific Research and Innovation, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Kai Fu
- Translational Innovation Platform Immunology, EMD Serono Research and Development Institute, Inc., 45A Middlesex Turnpike, Billerica, MA, 01821, USA.,The Center for Infectious Disease Research, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA
| | - Thabo Mpotje
- Division of Immunology and South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) Immunology of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, 7925, South Africa.,International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Cape Town Component, Cape Town, 7925, South Africa
| | - Georgianna Varrone
- Translational Innovation Platform Immunology, EMD Serono Research and Development Institute, Inc., 45A Middlesex Turnpike, Billerica, MA, 01821, USA.,The Center for Infectious Disease Research, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA
| | - Nada Abdel Aziz
- Division of Immunology and South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) Immunology of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, 7925, South Africa.,International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Cape Town Component, Cape Town, 7925, South Africa.,Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Paballo Mosala
- Division of Immunology and South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) Immunology of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, 7925, South Africa.,International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Cape Town Component, Cape Town, 7925, South Africa
| | - Lerato Hlaka
- Division of Immunology and South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) Immunology of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, 7925, South Africa.,International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Cape Town Component, Cape Town, 7925, South Africa
| | - Severin Donald Kamdem
- Division of Immunology and South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) Immunology of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, 7925, South Africa.,International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Cape Town Component, Cape Town, 7925, South Africa
| | - Daigen Xu
- Translational Innovation Platform Immunology, EMD Serono Research and Development Institute, Inc., 45A Middlesex Turnpike, Billerica, MA, 01821, USA.,The Center for Infectious Disease Research, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA
| | - Thomas Spangenberg
- Global Health Institute of Merck, Ares Trading S.A. a subsidiary of Merck KGaA Darmstadt Germany, Eysins, Switzerland.
| | - Frank Brombacher
- Division of Immunology and South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) Immunology of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, 7925, South Africa. .,International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Cape Town Component, Cape Town, 7925, South Africa.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Silva CM, Ferrari GD, Alberici LC, Malaspina O, Moraes KCM. Cellular and molecular effects of silymarin on the transdifferentiation processes of LX-2 cells and its connection with lipid metabolism. Mol Cell Biochem 2020; 468:129-142. [PMID: 32185674 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-020-03717-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2019] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Fibrosis process in the liver is a clinical condition established in response to chronic lesions and may be reversible in many situations. In this process, hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activate and produce extracellular matrix compounds. During fibrosis, the lipid metabolism is also altered and contributes to the transdifferentiation of the HSCs. Thus, controlling lipid metabolism in HSCs is suggested as a method to control or reverse the fibrotic condition. In the search for therapies that modulate lipid metabolism and treat liver diseases, silymarin has been identified as a relevant natural compound to treat liver pathologies. The present study aimed to evaluate the cellular and molecular effects of silymarin in the transdifferentiation process of HSCs (LX-2) from activated phenotype to a more quiesced-like cells , also focusing on understanding the modulatory effects of silymarin on lipid metabolism of HSCs. In our analyses, 100 µM of silymarin reduced the synthesis of actin filaments in activated cells, the synthesis of the protein level of α-SMA, and other pro-fibrotic factors such as CTGF and PFGF. The concentration of 150 µM silymarin did not reverse the activation aspects of LX-2 cells. However, both evaluated concentrations of the natural compound protected the cells from the negative effects of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). Furthermore, we evaluated lipid-related molecules correlated to the transdifferentiation process of LX-2, and 100 µM of silymarin demonstrated to control molecules associated with lipid metabolism such as FASN, MLYCD, ACSL4, CPTs, among others. In contrast, cellular incubation with 150 µM of silymarin increased the synthesis of long-chain fatty acids and triglycerides, regarding the higher presence of DMSO (v/v) in the solvent. In conclusion, silymarin acts as a hepatoprotective agent and modulates the pro-fibrogenic stimuli of LX-2 cells, whose effects depend on stress levels in the cellular environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caio Mateus Silva
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Departamento de Biologia Geral e Aplicada, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista, UNESP, Rio Claro, SP, 13506-900, Brazil
| | - Gustavo Duarte Ferrari
- Departamento de Bioquímica E Imunologia, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, USP, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Luciane Carla Alberici
- Departamento de Física E Química, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, USP, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Osmar Malaspina
- Centro de Estudos de Insetos Sociais, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista, UNESP, Rio Claro, SP, Brazil
| | - Karen C M Moraes
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Departamento de Biologia Geral e Aplicada, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista, UNESP, Rio Claro, SP, 13506-900, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
El-Khadragy MF, Al-Olayan EM, Elmallah MIY, Alharbi AM, Yehia HM, Abdel Moneim AE. Probiotics and yogurt modulate oxidative stress and fibrosis in livers of Schistosoma mansoni-infected mice. Altern Ther Health Med 2019; 19:3. [PMID: 30606163 PMCID: PMC6318950 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-018-2406-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2017] [Accepted: 12/07/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Background Considerable morbidity, mortality, and economic loss result from schistosomiasis infection. Deposition of Schistosoma eggs in the hepatic portal vein is considered as the main causative agent for the development of liver fibrosis and subsequent liver cirrhosis. Probiotics are exogenous and beneficial microorganisms to living hosts against the harmful effect of many parasites. Strong evidence suggests the importance of probiotics in the control strategy of helminth. The ultimate goal of this study is to evaluate the protective effect of probiotics and yogurt on Schistosoma mansoni-induced oxidative stress and hepatic fibrosis in mice. Methods Mice were infected by tail immersion of schistosomal cercariae followed by an oral treatment with either probiotics or yogurt for one week before infection and immediately post-infection. Mice were scarified on day 56 following infection with S. mansoni and liver sample were obtained. Results We showed that oral administration of probiotics or yogurt revealed a significant reduction in worm number, egg load, and granuloma size in liver tissue, which is mainly assigned to the decreased expression level of matrix metalloproteinases 9 (MMP-9) in liver tissue. A significant reduction in the oxidative stress markers-induced by S. mansoni infection including lipid peroxidation and nitrite/nitrate was also detected. The level of some antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase) and reduced glutathione was greatly enhanced. Furthermore, treatment with probiotics or yogurt inhibited apoptosis in hepatic tissue, which is mainly assigned to the decreased expression level of caspases-3 in liver tissue. Conclusion Our findings represent the promising anti-schistosomal activities of probiotics and yogurt. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12906-018-2406-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
|
18
|
Mansour HM, Salama AAA, Abdel-Salam RM, Ahmed NA, Yassen NN, Zaki HF. The anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects of tadalafil in thioacetamide-induced liver fibrosis in rats. Can J Physiol Pharmacol 2018; 96:1308-1317. [PMID: 30398909 DOI: 10.1139/cjpp-2018-0338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a health concern that leads to organ failure mediated via production of inflammatory cytokines and fibrotic biomarkers. This study aimed to explore the protective effect of tadalafil, a phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor, against thioacetamide (TAA)-induced liver fibrosis. Fibrosis was induced by administration of TAA (200 mg/kg, i.p.) twice weekly for 6 weeks. Serum transaminases activities, liver inflammatory cytokines, fibrotic biomarkers, and liver histopathology were assessed. TAA induced marked histopathological changes in liver tissues coupled with elevations in serum transaminases activities. Furthermore, hepatic content of nitric oxide and tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-6, and interleukin-1 beta were elevated, together with a reduction of interleukin-10 in the liver. In addition, TAA increased hepatic contents of transforming growth factor-beta, hydroxyproline, alpha-smooth muscle actin, and gene expression of collagen-1. Pretreatment with tadalafil protected against TAA-induced liver fibrosis, in a dose-dependent manner, as proved by the alleviation of inflammatory and fibrotic biomarkers. The effects of tadalafil were comparable with that of silymarin, a natural antioxidant, and could be assigned to its anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic properties.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Heba M Mansour
- a Pharmacology & Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Misr University for Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
| | - Abeer A A Salama
- b Pharmacology Department, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Rania M Abdel-Salam
- c Pharmacology & Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Naglaa A Ahmed
- a Pharmacology & Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Misr University for Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
| | - Noha N Yassen
- d Pathology Department, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Hala F Zaki
- c Pharmacology & Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Serum level of interleukin-13 receptor alpha 2 in infants with biliary atresia - is it of value? Clin Exp Hepatol 2018; 4:91-96. [PMID: 29904725 PMCID: PMC6000744 DOI: 10.5114/ceh.2018.75958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2018] [Accepted: 04/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim of the study We aimed to assess the utility of serum level IL-13Rα2 receptors as a non-invasive marker for early diagnosis of biliary atresia (BA) and selection of BA patients indicated for Kasai portoenterostomy. Material and methods The study included 60 infants with neonatal cholestasis in three groups; early BA group (n = 20), delayed BA group (n = 20) and non-BA cholestasis group (n = 20). A fourth group of 20 healthy neonates (n = 20) served as controls. IL-13Rα2 was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in all patients and controls. Results The mean value of IL-13Rα2 was significantly higher in delayed BA group (11.05 ± 10.9 ng/ml) compared to early BA (0.34 ± 0.37 ng/ml), non-BA (0.54 ± 0.85 ng/ml) and control (0.24-0.2 ng/ml) groups. The levels of serum IL-13Rα2 increase with the severity of the degree of fibrosis. IL-13Rα2 at a cutoff level > 0.782 ng/ml could predict late fibrosis with accuracy of 77.55% (p < 0.0001). IL-13Rα2 could differentiate between preserved and disturbed liver architecture at a cut off value of more than 0.42 ng/ml with an accuracy of 81.6%. Conclusions Serum IL-13Rα2 not a diagnostic marker for BA however it could be used as a noninvasive marker for detection of advanced liver fibrosis and presence of disturbed liver architecture that helps in patient selection for undergoing Kasai operation. Serum IL-13Rα2 could be a future therapeutic target for management of BA patients and any fibrotic liver disease.
Collapse
|
20
|
Tang X, Hu W, Lv Y, Zhang W, Sun T, Jiang Y, Zhan X, Zhou S. A Polysaccharide from Amusium Pleuronectes Combined with Praziquantel Treatment Ameliorates Hepatic Fibrosis in Schistosoma Japonicum-Infected Mice. Med Sci Monit 2018; 24:1597-1603. [PMID: 29550831 PMCID: PMC5870401 DOI: 10.12659/msm.909320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Polysaccharides from bivalves have multiple bioactivities in various aspects of biology. However, the role of a polysaccharide derived from Amusium pleuronectes on potential hepatoprotective effects remains unclear. Material/Methods A water-soluble polysaccharide was isolated from Amusium pleuronectes (APS-1) using ultrasound-assisted hot-water extraction. The molecular weight of APS-1 was approximately 11.7 kDa and was determined by calibration with dextran. APS-1 was analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and mainly consisted of a uniform glucose polymer. The protective effect of APS-1 on Schistosoma japonicum-induced liver fibrosis was investigated in a mouse model. Results Treatment with APS-1 increased serum levels of interleukin (IL)-12 and interferon (IFN)-γ, increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, and decreased levels of IL-13 and IL-5, and hyaluronidase activity. Moreover, immunohistochemical analysis revealed that the collagen content of hepatic tissue of APS-1-treated mice, including that of collagen I, II, and IV, was dramatically decreased. Furthermore, our data showed that combined treatment of APS-1 with praziquantel had more pronounced effects than treatment with either APS-1 or praziquantel alone. Conclusions Our findings suggest that the treatment using APS-1 in combination with praziquantel attenuated S. japonicum egg-induced hepatic fibrosis, and possessed potent hepatoprotective activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoniu Tang
- School of Preclinical Medicine, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China (mainland).,Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Bioactive Macromolecules, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China (mainland)
| | - Wei Hu
- School of Preclinical Medicine, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China (mainland)
| | - Yechao Lv
- School of Preclinical Medicine, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China (mainland)
| | - Wenqi Zhang
- School of Preclinical Medicine, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China (mainland)
| | - Tian Sun
- School of Preclinical Medicine, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China (mainland)
| | - Yuxin Jiang
- School of Preclinical Medicine, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China (mainland).,Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Bioactive Macromolecules, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China (mainland)
| | - Xiaodong Zhan
- School of Preclinical Medicine, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China (mainland).,Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Bioactive Macromolecules, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China (mainland)
| | - Shulin Zhou
- School of Preclinical Medicine, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China (mainland).,Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Bioactive Macromolecules, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China (mainland)
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Bae M, Park YK, Lee JY. Food components with antifibrotic activity and implications in prevention of liver disease. J Nutr Biochem 2017; 55:1-11. [PMID: 29268106 DOI: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2017.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2017] [Revised: 09/18/2017] [Accepted: 11/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Increasing prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in parallel with the obesity epidemic has been a major public health concern. NAFLD is the most common chronic liver disease in the United States, ranging from fatty liver to steatohepatitis, fibrosis and cirrhosis in the liver. In response to chronic liver injury, fibrogenesis in the liver occurs as a protective response; however, prolonged and dysregulated fibrogenesis can lead to liver fibrosis, which can further progress to cirrhosis and eventually hepatocellular carcinoma. Interplay of hepatocytes, macrophages and hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) in the hepatic inflammatory and oxidative milieu is critical for the development of NAFLD. In particular, HSCs play a major role in the production of extracellular matrix proteins. Studies have demonstrated that bioactive food components and natural products, including astaxanthin, curcumin, blueberry, silymarin, coffee, vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin D, resveratrol, quercetin and epigallocatechin-3-gallate, have antifibrotic effects in the liver. This review summarizes current knowledge of the mechanistic insight into the antifibrotic actions of the aforementioned bioactive food components.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Minkyung Bae
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
| | - Young-Ki Park
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
| | - Ji-Young Lee
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA; Department of Food and Nutrition, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, South Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Possible antifibrotic effect of GDC-0449 (Vismodegib), a hedgehog-pathway inhibitor, in mice model of Schistosoma-induced liver fibrosis. Parasitol Int 2017; 66:545-554. [PMID: 28408356 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2017.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2016] [Revised: 01/18/2017] [Accepted: 04/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a pathological process complicating schistosomiasis. It is an active process of continuous extracellular matrix accumulation. In Egypt, schistosomiasis re-infection is a continuing problem especially in rural areas. In this study we examined the antifibrotic effect of GDC-0449 (Vismodegib), a hedgehog-pathway inhibitor as a new molecular target for Schistosoma-induced liver fibrosis, in addition to exploring its effect as antischistosomal drug. The effect of GDC-0449 alone or combined with Praziquantel was tried experimentally in infected mice with Schistosoma mansoni. Fifty CD-1 Swiss female albino mice were used, forty mice were infected with Schistosoma mansoni cercariae. Animals were grouped into five groups; uninfected control, infected untreated, infected treated with Praziquantel (500mg/kg/day) for two days, infected treated with GDC-0449 (40mg/kg/day) for seven days, and infected treated with combined Praziquantel and GDC-0449. Parasitological and chemical parameters, hydroxyproline level and liver granuloma were assessed. Liver fibrosis was reduced significantly evidenced by reduced hydroxyproline levels [P<0.01 for combined (Praziquantel/GDC-0449) treatment groups, P<0.001 for GDC-0449-treated group]. Also, histopathological examination of liver tissues revealed that the mean diameter of granulomas was statistically reduced (P=0.001) with a reduction rate of 24.4% on treatment with GDC-0449. In GDC-0449/Praziquantel combined treatment group, number and mean diameter of the granulomas were reduced significantly P<0.001, and P=0.001 respectively. No antischistosomal effect was recorded for GDC-0449 in this study.
Collapse
|
23
|
Kamel ROA, Bayaumy FEZA. Ultrastructural alterations in Schistosoma mansoni juvenile and adult male worms after in vitro incubation with primaquine. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2017; 112:247-254. [PMID: 28327785 PMCID: PMC5354608 DOI: 10.1590/0074-02760160324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2016] [Accepted: 12/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Praziquantel has been cited as the only drug for treating schistosomiasis.
However, concerns over drug resistance have encouraged the search for novel drug
leads. The antimalarial drug primaquine possesses interesting anti-schistosmal
properties. OBJECTIVES This study is the first to document the potential role of primaquine as a
schistosomicide and the ultrastructural changes induced by primaquine on juvenile
or adult male worms of Schistosoma mansoni. METHODS Ultrastructural alterations in the tegumental surface of 21-day-old juvenile and
adult male worms of S. mansoni were demonstrated following
primaquine treatment at different concentrations (2, 5, 10, 15, and 20 µg/mL) and
incubation periods (1, 3, 6, 24, and 48 h) in vitro, using both scanning and
transmission electron microscopy. FINDINGS At low concentrations (2, 5, and 10 µg/mL) both juvenile and adult male worms
were alive after 24 h of incubation, whereas contraction, paralysis, and death of
all worms were observed after 24 h of drug exposure at 20 µg/mL. The tegument of
juvenile and adult male worms treated with primaquine exhibited erosion, peeling,
and sloughing. Furthermore, extensive damage of both tegumental and subtegumental
layers included embedded spines, and shrinkage of muscles with vacuoles. The in
vitro results confirmed that primaquine has dose-dependent effects with 20 µg/mL
as the most effective concentration in a short incubation period. MAIN CONCLUSIONS The schistosomicidal activity of primaquine indicates that this drug possesses
moderate in vitro activity against juvenile and adult male worms, since it caused
high mortality and tegumental alterations. This study confirmed that the
antimalarial drug primaquine possesses anti-schistosomal activity. Further
investigation is needed to elucidate its mechanism of action.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Reem Osama A Kamel
- Ain Shams University, Women College for Arts, Science and Education, Department of Zoology, Asmaa Fahmey St., Cairo, Egypt
| | - Fatma El-Zahraa Anwar Bayaumy
- Ain Shams University, Women College for Arts, Science and Education, Department of Zoology, Asmaa Fahmey St., Cairo, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Yun DG, Lee DG. Silymarin exerts antifungal effects via membrane-targeted mode of action by increasing permeability and inducing oxidative stress. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. BIOMEMBRANES 2017; 1859:467-474. [PMID: 28069415 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2017.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2016] [Revised: 01/03/2017] [Accepted: 01/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Silymarin, which is derived from the seeds of Silybum marianum, has been widely used to prevent and treat liver disorders. It is also consumed as a dietary supplement to improve liver function, as it does not exhibit any toxic effects in humans. Recently, silymarin has been reported to show antimicrobial effects against various pathogenic microorganisms, but the mode of action remains unknown. Thus, we investigated the antifungal activity of silymarin and aimed to determine the underlying mechanism. Initially, a propidium iodide assay was carried out; the results indicated that silymarin induced injury to the fungal plasma membrane. Subsequently, large unilamellar vesicles encapsulating calcein and fluorescein isothiocyanate-labeled dextrans (FDs) 4, 10, and 20 were prepared to analyze whether silymarin affects an artificial membrane model. The results indicated that silymarin increased membrane permeability by disturbing the membrane structure, thereby allowing free access to molecules smaller than FD20 (approximately 3.3nm). The accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) results in deleterious effects to various cellular components. In particular, ROS easily react with the membrane lipids and induce lipid peroxidation, which increases membrane permeability and disturbs hydrophobic phospholipids. Using 2',7'-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate and thiobarbituric acid, we confirmed that silymarin induced harmful effects on the plasma membrane. Membrane depolarization and K+ leakage, which were associated with an increase in membrane permeability, were also observed in Candida albicans cells. An assay using 1,6-diphenyl-1,3,5-hexatriene showed that silymarin decreased membrane fluidity. Taken together, we suggest that silymarin exerts its antifungal activity by targeting the C. albicans plasma membrane.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dae Gyu Yun
- School of Life Sciences, BK 21 Plus KNU Creative BioResearch Group, College of Natural Sciences, Kyungpook National University, 80 Daehakro, Bukgu, Daegu, 41566, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Gun Lee
- School of Life Sciences, BK 21 Plus KNU Creative BioResearch Group, College of Natural Sciences, Kyungpook National University, 80 Daehakro, Bukgu, Daegu, 41566, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Al-Olayan EM, El-Khadragy MF, Alajmi RA, Othman MS, Bauomy AA, Ibrahim SR, Abdel Moneim AE. Ceratonia siliqua pod extract ameliorates Schistosoma mansoni-induced liver fibrosis and oxidative stress. Altern Ther Health Med 2016; 16:434. [PMID: 27821159 PMCID: PMC5100080 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-016-1389-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2015] [Accepted: 10/13/2016] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Background Schistosomiasis is a prevalent parasitic disease found predominantly in tropical and sub-tropical areas of the developing world, with the second highest socioeconomic and public health burden despite strenuous control efforts. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the ameliorative effects of Ceratonia siliqua pod extract (CPE) on liver fibrosis and oxidative stress in mice infected with Schistosoma mansoni. Methods The schistosomal hepatopathologic mouse model was established by tail immersion with schistosomal cercaria. The extract was given daily for 10 days beginning 42 days post-infection. Liver samples were obtained from mice sacrificed 9 weeks after infection. Liver histopathological changes were observed with hematoxylin-eosin and Masson trichrome staining. Results Typical schistosomal hepatopathologic changes were induced in the untreated mice. However, the oral administration of CPE was effective in reducing worm number and the egg load in the liver. This treatment also decreased granuloma size and collagen deposition by inhibiting tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-2 (TIMP-2) expression. Schistosomal infection induced oxidative stress by increasing lipid peroxidation (LPO) and nitrite/nitrate (nitric oxide; NO) production along with concomitant decreases in glutathione (GSH) and various antioxidant enzymes, including superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase. However, treatment of mice with CPE at 300 or 600 mg/kg inhibited LPO and NO production, increased GSH content, and restored the activities of the antioxidant enzymes compared with untreated infected mice. Furthermore, treatment with CPE inhibited apoptosis, as indicated by the reduced Bax expression in hepatic tissue. Conclusion These data indicated that extracts from Ceratonia siliqua pods may play an important role in combating schistosomal hepatopathology and may inhibit granuloma formation and liver fibrosis through down-regulation of TIMP-2 expression. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12906-016-1389-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
|
26
|
Abstract
Human toxocarosis is a chronic tissue parasitosis most often caused by Toxocara canis. The seroprevalence can reach up to 50%, especially among children and adolescents. The anthelmintics used in the treatment have moderate efficacy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the in vitro and in vivo anthelmintic activity of quinones and their derivatives against T. canis larvae and the cytotoxicity of the larvicidal compounds. The compounds were evaluated at 1 mg mL(-1) concentration in microculture plates containing third stage larvae in an Roswell Park Memorial Institute (RPMI) 1640 environment, incubated at 37 °C in 5% CO2 tension for 48 h. Five naphthoxiranes were selected for the cytotoxicity analysis. The cell viability evaluated by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide and lactate dehydrogenase assays using murine peritoneal macrophages isolated from C57BL/6 mice revealed that the naphthoxiranes (1 and 3) were less cytotoxic at a concentration of 0.05 mg mL(-1). The efficacy of naphthoxiranes (1 and 3) was examined in murine toxocarosis also. The anthelmintic activity was examined by evaluating the number of larvae in the brain, carcass, liver, lungs, heart, kidneys and eyes. Compound (3) demonstrated anthelmintic activity similar to that of albendazole by decreasing the number of larvae in the organs of mice and thus could form the basis of the development of a new anthelmintic drug.
Collapse
|
27
|
Mata-Santos T, D'Oca CDRM, Mata-Santos HA, Fenalti J, Pinto N, Coelho T, Berne ME, da Silva PEA, D'Oca MGM, Scaini CJ. Toxocara canis: Larvicidal activity of fatty acid amides. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2016; 26:739-741. [PMID: 26783180 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2016.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2015] [Revised: 12/31/2015] [Accepted: 01/04/2016] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Considering the therapeutic potential of fatty acid amides, the present study aimed to evaluate their in vitro activity against Toxocara canis larvae and their cytotoxicity for the first time. Linoleylpyrrolidilamide was the most potent, with a minimal larvicidal concentration (MLC) of 0.05 mg/mL and 27% cytotoxicity against murine peritoneal macrophages C57BL/6 mice, as assessed by the MTT assay.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Taís Mata-Santos
- Parasitology Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande, Rio Grande, Brazil.
| | - Caroline da Ros Montes D'Oca
- Laboratory Kolbe of Organic Synthesis, School of Chemistry and Food, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande, Rio Grande, Brazil
| | - Hílton Antônio Mata-Santos
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, Pharmacy College, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Juliana Fenalti
- Parasitology Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande, Rio Grande, Brazil
| | - Nitza Pinto
- Parasitology Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande, Rio Grande, Brazil
| | - Tatiane Coelho
- Center for Research and Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande, Rio Grande, Brazil
| | - Maria Elisabeth Berne
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Institute of Biology, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil
| | - Pedro Eduardo Almeida da Silva
- Center for Research and Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande, Rio Grande, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Gonçalves Montes D'Oca
- Laboratory Kolbe of Organic Synthesis, School of Chemistry and Food, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande, Rio Grande, Brazil
| | - Carlos James Scaini
- Parasitology Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande, Rio Grande, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Interactions between mefloquine and the anti-fibrotic drug silymarin on Schistosoma mansoni infections in mice. J Helminthol 2016; 90:760-765. [PMID: 26824480 DOI: 10.1017/s0022149x16000018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
The present study tests the anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects of silymarin alone or combined with mefloquine on acute schistosomiasis by evaluating parasitological, histopathological, biochemical and immunological parameters. Male CDI Swiss mice were divided into seven groups, which included healthy controls, mice infected with Schistosoma mansoni or treated with silymarin (140 mg/kg body weight) or mefloquine (400 mg/kg body weight), or mice treated with a combination of both drugs and uninfected mice simply treated with mefloquine or silymarin alone. All mouse groups were sacrificed 8 weeks post-infection (pi) and/or post-treatment. Those infected mice treated with both silymarin and mefloquine showed a significant decrease (P < 0.001) in worm burden, immunoglobulins (IgG and IgM), liver function enzymes and granuloma diameter, with complete eradication of immature and mature eggs. In conclusion, treatment with silymarin combined with mefloquine in murine schistosomiasis was able to reduce granulomatous reactions and hepatic fibrosis. Hence, this combination is a new strategy to be studied as an efficient tool in the treatment of schistosomal liver fibrosis.
Collapse
|
29
|
An IL-13 promoter polymorphism associated with liver fibrosis in patients with Schistosoma japonicum. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0135360. [PMID: 26258681 PMCID: PMC4530950 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0135360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2015] [Accepted: 07/21/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine whether two polymorphisms in the gene encoding IL13 previously associated with Schistosoma hematobium (S. hematobium) and S. mansoni infection are associated with S. japonicum infection. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) rs1800925 (IL13/-1112C>T) and rs20541 (IL13R130Q) were genotyped in 947 unrelated individuals (307 chronically infected, 339 late-stage with liver fibrosis, 301 uninfected controls) from a schistosomiasis-endemic area of Hubei province in China. Regression models were used to evaluate allelic and haplotypic associations with chronic and late-stage schistosomiasis adjusted for non-genetic covariates. Expression of IL-13 was measured in S. japonicun-infected liver fibrosis tissue and normal liver tissue from uninfected controls by immunohistochemistry (IHC). The role of rs1800925 in IL-13 transcription was further determined by Luciferase report assay using the recombinant PGL4.17-rs180092 plasmid. We found SNP rs1800925T was associated with late-stage schistosomiasis caused by S. japonicum but not chronic schistosomiasis (OR = 1.39, 95%CI = 1.02-1.91, p = 0.03) and uninfected controls (OR = 1.49, 95%CI = 1.03-2.13, p = 0.03). Moreover, the haplotype rs1800925T-rs20541C increased the risk of disease progression to late-stage schistosomiasis (OR = 1.46, p = 0.035), whereas haplotype rs1800925C-rs20541A showed a protective role against development of late-stage schistosomiasis (F = 0.188, OR = 0.61, p = 0.002). Furthermore, S. japonicum-induced fibrotic liver tissue had higher IL13 expression than normal liver tissue. Plasmid PGL4.17-rs1800925T showed a stronger relative luciferase activity than Plasmid PGL4.17-rs1800925C in 293FT, QSG-7701 and HL-7702 cell lines. In conclusion, the functional IL13 polymorphism, rs1800925T, previously associated with risk of schistosomiasis, also contributes to risk of late-stage schistosomiasis caused by S. japonicum.
Collapse
|
30
|
Casas-Grajales S, Muriel P. Antioxidants in liver health. World J Gastrointest Pharmacol Ther 2015; 6:59-72. [PMID: 26261734 PMCID: PMC4526841 DOI: 10.4292/wjgpt.v6.i3.59] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2015] [Revised: 06/04/2015] [Accepted: 06/18/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver diseases are a worldwide medical problem because the liver is the principal detoxifying organ and maintains metabolic homeostasis. The liver metabolizes various compounds that produce free radicals (FR). However, antioxidants scavenge FR and maintain the oxidative/antioxidative balance in the liver. When the liver oxidative/antioxidative balance is disrupted, the state is termed oxidative stress. Oxidative stress leads to deleterious processes in the liver and produces liver diseases. Therefore, restoring antioxidants is essential to maintain homeostasis. One method of restoring antioxidants is to consume natural compounds with antioxidant capacity. The objective of this review is to provide information pertaining to various antioxidants found in food that have demonstrated utility in improving liver diseases.
Collapse
|
31
|
El-Sayed NM, Fathy GM, Abdel-Rahman SAR, El-Shafei MAA. Cytokine patterns in experimental schistosomiasis mansoni infected mice treated with silymarin. J Parasit Dis 2014; 40:922-9. [PMID: 27605811 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-014-0606-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2014] [Accepted: 10/16/2014] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine cytokine patterns in experimental schistosomiasis mansoni infected mice treated with silymarin. The study was conducted upon 100 mice that were divided into five groups; 20 each: uninfected control group, Schistosoma mansoni infected untreated mice (infected control), infected mice treated with praziquantel (PZQ), infected mice treated with silymarin and infected mice treated with both praziquantel and silymarin. 10 mice from each group were sacrificed at 10th and 18th weeks post infection respectively. Histopathological investigations were performed. Liver sections were stained with hematoxylin-eosin and Masson's trichrome stain to evaluate changes of granuloma sizes and numbers. Serum levels of the cytokines (TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-4 and TGF-β1) were assessed in the sera of all groups by immunoassay. The measured levels of cytokines (IFN-γ, IL-4, TNF-α, TGF-β1) were found to be significantly increased in infected mice compared to normal control. At the same time, treated groups with silymarin alone or combined with PZQ showed significant decrease in IL-4, TNF-α and TGF-β1 levels compared to infected control. On the other hand, there was a significant increase in IFN-γ level observed in all treated groups compared to infected control. In addition, the histopathological examination of the liver in the group treated with PZQ showed a reduction in the number of livers eggs granuloma at all periods of sacrification compared with the infected untreated group. However, there was more decrease in granulomas diameter in both silymarin treated group or combined with PZQ at all periods of sacrification when compared to infected untreated group. In conclusion; treatment with silymarin combined with PZQ in murine schistosomiasis could reduce hepatic fibrosis by their action on the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nagwa Mostafa El-Sayed
- Parasitology Department, Research Institute of Ophthalmology, Ministry of Scientific Research & Technology, Giza, Egypt
| | - Ghada Mahmoud Fathy
- Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | | | | |
Collapse
|