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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.
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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.
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Lee SO, Chu KB, Yoon KW, Eom GD, Mao J, Lee H, No JH, Song JH, Hong SJ, Kim SS, Quan FS. Efficacy assessment of miltefosine and curcumin against Clonorchis sinensis infection. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2024:e0064224. [PMID: 39082882 DOI: 10.1128/aac.00642-24] [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: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/20/2024] [Indexed: 08/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Praziquantel (PZQ) is currently the only approved drug for treating clonorchiasis, but its poor efficacy against Clonorchis sinensis larvae has highlighted the need to develop newer drugs. In this study, to address this challenge, we investigated the anti-parasitic efficacy of miltefosine (MLT), curcumin (CUR), and PZQ against C. sinensis metacercariae (CsMC), newly excysted juvenile worms (CsNEJs), and adults. Larvicidal effects of MLT and CUR surpassed those elicited by PZQ in vitro. These two drugs exerted their effect against both CsMC and CsNEJs in a dose- and time-dependent manner. To confirm the effect of these drugs in vivo, Syrian golden hamsters were orally infected with 100 CsMC and subsequently treated with MLT, CUR, or PZQ at 1 and 4 weeks post-infection (wpi). MLT and CUR reduced the worm recoveries at 1 and 4 wpi, indicating that these drugs were efficacious against both larvae and adult C. sinensis. PZQ was only efficacious against adult worms. Interestingly, both MLT and CUR showed lower levels of C. sinensis-specific IgG responses than the infection control group, implying that worm burden and bile IgG responses could be correlated. These results indicate that MLT and CUR are efficacious against both larval and adult stages of C. sinensis, thereby highlighting their potential for further development as alternative therapeutic options for clonorchiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soon-Ok Lee
- Department of Medical Zoology, School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki Back Chu
- Department of Parasitology, Inje University College of Medicine, Busan, Republic of Korea
- Department of Infectious Disease and Malaria, Paik Institute of Clinical Research, Inje University, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Keon-Woong Yoon
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Gi-Deok Eom
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jie Mao
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeryon Lee
- Host-Parasite Research Laboratory, Institut Pasteur Korea, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Joo Hwan No
- Host-Parasite Research Laboratory, Institut Pasteur Korea, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Ho Song
- Department Pharmacology, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Jong Hong
- Convergence Research Center for Insect Vectors, Incheon National University, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Soo Kim
- Medical Research Center for Bioreaction to Reactive Oxygen Species and Biomedical Science Institute, School of Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Fu-Shi Quan
- Department of Medical Zoology, School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Medical Research Center for Bioreaction to Reactive Oxygen Species and Biomedical Science Institute, School of Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Allahyari M, Malekifard F, Yakhchali M. Anthelmintic effects of some medicinal plants on different life stages of Fasciola hepatica: Evidence on oxidative stress biomarkers, and DNA damage. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2024; 18:e0012251. [PMID: 38885188 PMCID: PMC11182539 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0012251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Fasciolosis caused by Fasciola hepatica is a major public health and economic problem worldwide. Due to the lack of a successful vaccine and emerging resistance to the drug triclabendazole, alternative phytotherapeutic approaches are being investigated. This study investigated the in vitro anthelmintic activity of Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) and carob (Ceratonia siliqua L.) essential oils (EOs) against F. hepatica. The in vitro study was based on an egg hatch assay (EHA), adult motility inhibition assays, DNA damage, reactive oxygen species (ROS) level along with several oxidative stress biomarkers including glutathione peroxidase (GSH), and glutathione-S-transferase (GST), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA). To this end, different concentrations of L. angustifolia and C. siliqua EOs (1, 5, 10, 25 and 50 mg/mL) were used to assess anthelmintic effects on different life stages including egg, and adults of F. hepatica for 24 hrs. The results indicated that these EOs play a significant role as anthelminthics, and the effect was dependent on time and concentration. The in vitro treatment of F. hepatica worms with both L. angustifolia and C. siliqua EOs increased DNA damage, ROS production and induction of oxidative stress (decreased SOD, GST and GSH, and increased MDA), significantly compared to control. Therefore, it can be concluded that L. angustifolia and C. siliqua EOs have the potential to be used as novel agents for the control and treatment of F. hepatica infections. Further studies are required to investigate their pharmacological potential and effectiveness in vivo for the treatment of parasitic infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohaddeseh Allahyari
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran
| | - Farnaz Malekifard
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran
| | - Mohammad Yakhchali
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran
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Ravvaz A, Malekifard F, Esmaeilnejad B. In vitro assessment of the anthelmintic activity of copper oxide and zinc oxide nanoparticles on egg and adult stages of Fasciola hepatica: evidence on oxidative stress biomarkers, and DNA damage. BMC Vet Res 2024; 20:137. [PMID: 38575964 PMCID: PMC10993569 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-024-03994-0] [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: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Fasciolosis is of significant economic and public health importance worldwide. The lack of a successful vaccine and emerging resistance in flukes to the drug of choice, triclabendazole, has initiated the search for alternative approaches. In recent years, metallic nanoparticles have been extensively investigated for their anthelmintic effects. This study investigates the in vitro anthelmintic activity of copper oxide and zinc oxide nanoparticles against Fasciola hepatica. METHODS The in vitro study was based on egg hatchability test (EHA), adult motility inhibition tests, DNA damage, ROS levels, as well as several biomarkers of oxidative stress, including glutathione peroxidase (GSH) and glutathione S-transferase (GST), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA). For this purpose, different concentrations of copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO-NPs) and Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) (1, 4, 8, 12, and 16 ppm) were used to evaluate the anthelmintic effect on different life stages, including egg and adults of Fasciola hepatica, over 24 h. RESULTS In vitro treatment of F. hepatica worms with both CuO-NPs and ZnO-NPs could significantly increase ROS production and oxidative stress induction (decreased SOD, GST and GSH and increased MDA) compared to control group. CONCLUSIONS Based on the results, it seems that CuO-NPs and ZnO-NPs may be effective in the control and treatment of F. hepatica infection. Further research is needed to investigate their potential for in vivo use in the treatment of parasitic infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amirhassan Ravvaz
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, P.O. Box 1177, Urmia, Iran
| | - Farnaz Malekifard
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, P.O. Box 1177, Urmia, Iran.
| | - Bijan Esmaeilnejad
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, P.O. Box 1177, Urmia, Iran
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Kot K, Michaliszyn A, Kalisińska E, Lepczyńska M. The influence of plant extracts on viability of ST3 and ST7 subtypes of Blastocystis sp. Gut Pathog 2024; 16:19. [PMID: 38570865 PMCID: PMC10988960 DOI: 10.1186/s13099-024-00613-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Blastocystis sp. is one of the most frequently detected protozoa during stool specimen examination. In the last decade, the studies about the pathogenic potential of Blastocystis sp. have intensified. Additionally, treatment approaches against this parasite are still disputable. The study aimed to investigate the in vitro activity of the substances of natural origin against two subtypes (ST) of Blastocystis sp.-ST3 and ST7. Garlic and turmeric extracts exhibited the highest inhibitory effect in relation to the ST3 viability. While horseradish and turmeric were found to be the most effective extracts to the ST7 viability. The study showed that ginger, garlic, horseradish, and turmeric extracts have potent antimicrobial activity against Blastocystis ST3 and ST7, with the half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) ranging from 3.8 to 4.8 µg/ml and from 3.3 to 72.0 µg/ml, respectively, and thus may be useful in the prevention and control of Blastocystis infections. Additionally, this research confirmed that Blastocystis ST7 is more resistant to the selected plant extracts treatment than Blastocystis ST3 which in consequence may bring some difficulties in its eradication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Kot
- Department of Biology and Medical Parasitology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Powstańców Wielkopolskich 72, 70-111, Szczecin, Poland.
| | - Adam Michaliszyn
- Department of Biology and Medical Parasitology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Powstańców Wielkopolskich 72, 70-111, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Elżbieta Kalisińska
- Department of Biology and Medical Parasitology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Powstańców Wielkopolskich 72, 70-111, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Lepczyńska
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Public Health, University of Warmia and Mazury, Żołnierska 14C, 10-561, Olsztyn, Poland
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Khedr SI, Gomaa MM, Mogahed NMFH, Gamea GA, Khodear GAM, Sheta E, Soliman NAH, El Saadany AA, Salama AM. Trichinella spiralis: A new parasitic target for curcumin nanoformulas in mice models. Parasitol Int 2024; 98:102810. [PMID: 37730195 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2023.102810] [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: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
Trichinosis spiralis is a global disease with significant economic impact. Albendazole is the current-treatment. Yet, the world-widely emerging antimicrobial resistance necessitates search for therapeutic substitutes. Curcumin is a natural compound with abundant therapeutic benefits. This study aimed to evaluate the potential of crude-curcumin, chitosan and for the first time curcumin-nano-emulsion and curcumin-loaded-chitosan-nanoparticles against Trichinella spiralis adults and larvae in acute and chronic trichinosis models. Trichinosis spiralis was induced in 96 Swiss-albino mice. Infected mice were divided into 2 groups. Group I constituted the acute model, where treatment started 2 h after infection for 5 successive days. Group II constituted the chronic model, where treatment started at the 30th day-post-infection and continued for 10 successive days (Refer to graphical abstract). Each group contained 8 subgroups that were designated Ia-Ih and IIa-IIh and included; a; Untreated-control, b; Albendazole-treated (Alb-treated), c; Crude-curcumin-treated (Cur-treated), d; Curcumin-nanoemulsion-treated (Cur-NE-treated), e; Albendazole and crude-curcumin-treated (Alb-Cur-treated), f; Albendazole and curcumin-nanoemulsion-treated (Alb-Cur-NE-treated), g; Chitosan-nanoparticles-treated (CS-NPs-treated) and h; Curcumin-loaded-chitosan-nanoparticles-treated (Cur-CS-NPs-treated). Additionally, six mice constituted control-uninfected group III. The effects of the used compounds on the parasite tegument, in-vivo parasitic load-worm burden, local pathology and MDA concentration in small intestines of acutely-infected and skeletal muscle of chronically-infected mice were studied. Results showed that albendazole was effective, yet, its combination with Cur-NE showed significant potentiation against adult worms and muscle larvae and alleviated the pathology in both models. Cur-CS-NPs exhibited promising results in both models. Crude-curcumin showed encouraging results especially against muscle larvae on long-term use. Treatments effectively reduced parasite load, local MDA level and CD31 expression with anti-inflammatory effect in intestine and muscle sections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Safaa Ibrahim Khedr
- Medical Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Egypt.
| | - Maha Mohamed Gomaa
- Medical Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Egypt
| | | | - Ghada A Gamea
- Medical Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Egypt
| | - Gehan A M Khodear
- Medical technology center, Medical Research Institute, Alexandria University, Egypt
| | - Eman Sheta
- Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Egypt
| | - Nada A H Soliman
- Medical Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Egypt
| | | | - Amina M Salama
- Medical Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Egypt
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Zhu P, Wu K, Zhang C, Batool SS, Li A, Yu Z, Huang J. Advances in new target molecules against schistosomiasis: A comprehensive discussion of physiological structure and nutrient intake. PLoS Pathog 2023; 19:e1011498. [PMID: 37498810 PMCID: PMC10374103 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1011498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis, a severe parasitic disease, is primarily caused by Schistosoma mansoni, Schistosoma japonicum, or Schistosoma haematobium. Currently, praziquantel is the only recommended drug for human schistosome infection. However, the lack of efficacy of praziquantel against juvenile worms and concerns about the emergence of drug resistance are driving forces behind the research for an alternative medication. Schistosomes are obligatory parasites that survive on nutrients obtained from their host. The ability of nutrient uptake depends on their physiological structure. In short, the formation and maintenance of the structure and nutrient supply are mutually reinforcing and interdependent. In this review, we focus on the structural features of the tegument, esophagus, and intestine of schistosomes and their roles in nutrient acquisition. Moreover, we introduce the significance and modes of glucose, lipids, proteins, and amino acids intake in schistosomes. We linked the schistosome structure and nutrient supply, introduced the currently emerging targets, and analyzed the current bottlenecks in the research and development of drugs and vaccines, in the hope of providing new strategies for the prevention and control of schistosomiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Zhu
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
- XiangYa School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Kaijuan Wu
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Chaobin Zhang
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
- XiangYa School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Syeda Sundas Batool
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- China-Africa Research Center of Infectious Diseases, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Anqiao Li
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
- XiangYa School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zheng Yu
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- China-Africa Research Center of Infectious Diseases, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jing Huang
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
- China-Africa Research Center of Infectious Diseases, Central South University, Changsha, China
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Zhong H, Qin F, Ren Y, Li X, Hou L, Gu S, Jin Y. Functional characterization of differentially expressed proteins coming from unisexual and bisexual infected Schistosoma japonicum female worms. Exp Parasitol 2023; 248:108504. [PMID: 36914063 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2023.108504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is an important zoonotic disease affecting up to 40 kinds of animals and is responsible for ∼250 million human cases per year. Due to the extensive use of praziquantel for the treatment of parasitic diseases, drug resistance has been reported. Consequently, novel drugs and effective vaccines are urgently needed for sustained control of schistosomiasis. Targeting reproductive development of Schistosoma japonicum could contribute to the control of schistosomiasis. In this study, five highly expressed proteins (S. japonicum large subunit ribosomal protein L7e, S. japonicum glutathione S-transferase class-mu 26 kDa isozyme, S. japonicum UDP-galactose-4-epimerase and two hypothetical proteins SjCAX70849 and SjCAX72486) in 18, 21, 23, and 25-day mature female worms compared to single-sex infected female worms were selected based on our previous proteomic analysis. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis and long-term interference with small interfering RNA were performed to identify the biological functions of these five proteins. The transcriptional profiles suggested that all five proteins participated in the maturation of S. japonicum. RNA interference against these proteins resulted in morphological changes to S. japonicum. The results of an immunoprotection assay revealed that immunization of mice with recombinant SjUL-30 and SjCAX72486 upregulated production of immunoglobulin G-specific antibodies. Collectively, the results demonstrated that these five differentially expressed proteins were vital to reproduction of S. japonicum and, thus, are potential candidate antigens for immune protection against schistosomiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haoran Zhong
- National Reference Laboratory for Animal Schistosomiasis, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, 200241, PR China; Key Laboratory of Animal Parasitology of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, 200241, PR China
| | - Fanglin Qin
- National Reference Laboratory for Animal Schistosomiasis, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, 200241, PR China; Key Laboratory of Animal Parasitology of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, 200241, PR China; College of Life Sciences, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Yuqi Ren
- National Reference Laboratory for Animal Schistosomiasis, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, 200241, PR China; Key Laboratory of Animal Parasitology of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, 200241, PR China
| | - Xiaochun Li
- National Reference Laboratory for Animal Schistosomiasis, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, 200241, PR China; Key Laboratory of Animal Parasitology of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, 200241, PR China; College of Life Sciences, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Ling Hou
- National Reference Laboratory for Animal Schistosomiasis, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, 200241, PR China; Key Laboratory of Animal Parasitology of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, 200241, PR China; College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Shanxi, PR China
| | - Shaopeng Gu
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Shanxi, PR China
| | - Yamei Jin
- National Reference Laboratory for Animal Schistosomiasis, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, 200241, PR China; Key Laboratory of Animal Parasitology of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, 200241, PR China.
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Francisco KR, Monti L, Yang W, Park H, Liu LJ, Watkins K, Amarasinghe DK, Nalli M, Roberto Polaquini C, Regasini LO, Eduardo Miller Crotti A, Silvestri R, Guidi Magalhães L, Caffrey CR. Structure-activity relationship of dibenzylideneacetone analogs against the neglected disease pathogen, Trypanosoma brucei. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2023; 81:129123. [PMID: 36608774 PMCID: PMC10072319 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2023.129123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Trypanosoma brucei is a protozoan parasite that causes Human African Trypanosomiasis (HAT), a neglected tropical disease (NTD) that is endemic in 36 countries in sub-Saharan Africa. Only a handful drugs are available for treatment, and these have limitations, including toxicity and drug resistance. Using the natural product, curcumin, as a starting point, several curcuminoids and related analogs were evaluated against bloodstream forms of T. b. brucei. A particular subset of dibenzylideneacetone (DBA) compounds exhibited potent in vitro antitrypanosomal activity with sub-micromolar EC50 values. A structure-activity relationship study including 26 DBA analogs was initiated, and several compounds exhibited EC50 values as low as 200 nM. Cytotoxicity counter screens in HEK293 cells identified several compounds having selectivity indices above 10. These data suggest that DBAs offer starting points for a new small molecule therapy of HAT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karol R Francisco
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA.
| | - Ludovica Monti
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Wenqian Yang
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Hayoung Park
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Lawrence J Liu
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Kaitlyn Watkins
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Dilini K Amarasinghe
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Marianna Nalli
- Laboratory Affiliated with the Institute Pasteur Italy - Cenci Bolognetti Foundation, Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Carlos Roberto Polaquini
- Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences, São Paulo State University, São José do Rio Preto, SP 15054-000, Brazil
| | - Luis O Regasini
- Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences, São Paulo State University, São José do Rio Preto, SP 15054-000, Brazil
| | - Antônio Eduardo Miller Crotti
- Faculty of Philosophy, Sciences, and Letters of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP 14040-900, Brazil
| | - Romano Silvestri
- Laboratory Affiliated with the Institute Pasteur Italy - Cenci Bolognetti Foundation, Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Lizandra Guidi Magalhães
- Research Group on Natural Products, Center for Research in Sciences and Technology, University of Franca, Franca, SP 14404-600, Brazil
| | - Conor R Caffrey
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
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EF24, a schistosomicidal curcumin analog: Insights from its synthesis and phenotypic, biochemical and cytotoxic activities. Chem Biol Interact 2022; 368:110191. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2022.110191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Revised: 09/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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11
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Boonhok R, Sangkanu S, Phumjan S, Jongboonjua R, Sangnopparat N, Kwankaew P, Tedasen A, Lim CL, Pereira MDL, Rahmatullah M, Wilairatana P, Wiart C, Dolma KG, Paul AK, Gupta M, Nissapatorn V. Curcumin effect on Acanthamoeba triangularis encystation under nutrient starvation. PeerJ 2022; 10:e13657. [PMID: 35811814 PMCID: PMC9261923 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.13657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Curcumin is an active compound derived from turmeric, Curcuma longa, and is known for its benefits to human health. The amoebicidal activity of curcumin against Acanthamoeba triangularis was recently discovered. However, a physiological change of intracellular pathways related to A. triangularis encystation mechanism, including autophagy in the surviving amoeba after curcumin treatment, has never been reported. This study aims to investigate the effect of curcumin on the survival of A. triangularis under nutrient starvation and nutrient-rich condition, as well as to evaluate the A. triangularis encystation and a physiological change of Acanthamoeba autophagy at the mRNA level. Methods In this study, A. triangularis amoebas were treated with a sublethal dose of curcumin under nutrient starvation and nutrient-rich condition and the surviving amoebas was investigated. Cysts formation and vacuolization were examined by microscopy and transcriptional expression of autophagy-related genes and other encystation-related genes were evaluated by real-time PCR. Results A. triangularis cysts were formed under nutrient starvation. However, in the presence of the autophagy inhibitor, 3-methyladenine (3-MA), the percentage of cysts was significantly reduced. Interestingly, in the presence of curcumin, most of the parasites remained in the trophozoite stage in both the starvation and nutrient-rich condition. In vacuolization analysis, the percentage of amoebas with enlarged vacuole was increased upon starvation. However, the percentage was significantly declined in the presence of curcumin and 3-MA. Molecular analysis of A. triangularis autophagy-related (ATG) genes showed that the mRNA expression of the ATG genes, ATG3, ATG8b, ATG12, ATG16, under the starvation with curcumin was at a basal level along the treatment. The results were similar to those of the curcumin-treated amoebas under a nutrient-rich condition, except AcATG16 which increased later. On the other hand, mRNA expression of encystation-related genes, cellulose synthase and serine proteinase, remained unchanged during the first 18 h, but significantly increased at 24 h post treatment. Conclusion Curcumin inhibits cyst formation in surviving trophozoites, which may result from its effect on mRNA expression of key Acanthamoeba ATG-related genes. However, further investigation into the mechanism of curcumin in A. triangularis trophozoites arrest and its association with autophagy or other encystation-related pathways is needed to support the future use of curcumin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachasak Boonhok
- Department of Medical Technology, School of Allied Health Sciences, and Research Excellence Center for Innovation and Health Products (RECIHP), Walailak University, Thai Buri, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
| | - Suthinee Sangkanu
- School of Allied Health Sciences, Southeast Asia Water Team (SEA Water Team) and World Union for Herbal Drug Discovery (WUHeDD), and Research Excellence Center for Innovation and Health Products (RECIHP), Walailak University, Thai Buri, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
| | - Suganya Phumjan
- Department of Medical Technology, School of Allied Health Sciences, and Research Excellence Center for Innovation and Health Products (RECIHP), Walailak University, Thai Buri, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
| | - Ramita Jongboonjua
- Department of Medical Technology, School of Allied Health Sciences, and Research Excellence Center for Innovation and Health Products (RECIHP), Walailak University, Thai Buri, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
| | - Nawarat Sangnopparat
- Department of Medical Technology, School of Allied Health Sciences, and Research Excellence Center for Innovation and Health Products (RECIHP), Walailak University, Thai Buri, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
| | - Pattamaporn Kwankaew
- Department of Medical Technology, School of Allied Health Sciences, and Research Excellence Center for Innovation and Health Products (RECIHP), Walailak University, Thai Buri, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
| | - Aman Tedasen
- Department of Medical Technology, School of Allied Health Sciences, and Research Excellence Center for Innovation and Health Products (RECIHP), Walailak University, Thai Buri, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
| | - Chooi Ling Lim
- Division of Applied Biomedical Science and Biotechnology, School of Health Sciences, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Maria de Lourdes Pereira
- CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials and Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Mohammed Rahmatullah
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, University of Development Alternative, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Polrat Wilairatana
- Department of Clinical Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Rachathewee, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Christophe Wiart
- The Institute for Tropical Biology and Conservation, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
| | - Karma G. Dolma
- Department of Microbiology, Sikkim Manipal Institute of Medical Sciences, Sikkim, India
| | - Alok K. Paul
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Madhu Gupta
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, New Delhi, India
| | - Veeranoot Nissapatorn
- School of Allied Health Sciences, Southeast Asia Water Team (SEA Water Team) and World Union for Herbal Drug Discovery (WUHeDD), and Research Excellence Center for Innovation and Health Products (RECIHP), Walailak University, Thai Buri, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
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Martínez-González JDJ, Ríos-Morales SL, Guevara-Flores A, Ramos-Godinez MDP, López-Saavedra A, Rendón JL, Del Arenal Mena IP. Evaluating the effect of curcumin on the metacestode of Taenia crassiceps. Exp Parasitol 2022; 239:108319. [PMID: 35777452 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2022.108319] [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: 05/10/2021] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Curcumin, a curcuminoid present in the rhizome of the plant Curcuma longa has multiple pharmacological effects including anticarcinogenic and anti-inflammatory properties. This work evaluates the anthelmintic effect of the curcumin molecule (98% pure) on Taenia crassiceps cysticerci viability in vitro. Cysticerci incubated in the presence of increasing concentrations of curcumin showed a dose-dependent mortality correlated with a significant increase in the production of reactive oxygen species and a partial inhibition of thioredoxin-glutathione reductase, the only disulfide reductase present in these parasites. At 500 μM curcumin, a 100% of cysticerci lethality was obtained after 2 h of treatment. These results suggest the curcumin-induced oxidative stress could be in the origin of the anthelminthic effect of curcumin. Mice with cysticerci were injected intraperitoneally with 20, 40, or 60 mM curcumin daily for 30 days. A decrease in the burden of cysticerci (46%) was observed with a 60 mM dose of curcumin, supporting this compound as a potential anthelmintic drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- José de Jesús Martínez-González
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Apartado Postal 70-159, 04510, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Sandra Lizeth Ríos-Morales
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Apartado Postal 70-159, 04510, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Alberto Guevara-Flores
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Apartado Postal 70-159, 04510, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - María Del Pilar Ramos-Godinez
- Unidad de Aplicaciones Avanzadas en Microscopía, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología, Red de Apoyo a la Investigación (RAI), 14080, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Alejandro López-Saavedra
- Unidad de Aplicaciones Avanzadas en Microscopía, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología, Red de Apoyo a la Investigación (RAI), 14080, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Juan Luis Rendón
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Apartado Postal 70-159, 04510, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Irene Patricia Del Arenal Mena
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Apartado Postal 70-159, 04510, Mexico City, Mexico.
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13
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Barban do Patrocinio A. Schistosomiasis: Discovery of New Molecules for Disease Treatment and Vaccine Development. Infect Dis (Lond) 2022. [DOI: 10.5772/intechopen.104738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
The parasite blood flukes belonging to the genus Schistosoma cause schistosomiasis. Among the Schistosoma species that infect humans, three stand out: Schistosoma japonicum (S. japonicum), which occurs in Asia, mainly in China and the Philippines; Schistosoma haematobium (S. haematobium), which occurs in Africa; and Schistosoma mansoni (S. mansoni), which occurs in Africa and South America and the center of Venezuela (Brazil). Research has shown that these species comprise strains that are resistant to Praziquantel (PZQ), the only drug of choice to fight the disease. Moreover, patients can be reinfected even after being treated with PZQ , and this drug does not act against young forms of the parasite. Therefore, several research groups have focused their studies on new molecules for disease treatment and vaccine development. This chapter will focus on (i) parasite resistance to PZQ , (ii) molecules that are currently being developed and tested as possible drugs against schistosomiasis, and (iii) candidates for vaccine development with a primary focus on clinical trials.
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14
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Zhou X, Hong Y, Shang Z, Abuzeid AMI, Lin J, Li G. The Potential Role of MicroRNA‐124‐3p in Growth, Development, and Reproduction of Schistosoma japonicum. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:862496. [PMID: 35493736 PMCID: PMC9043613 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.862496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The microRNA‐124‐3p plays an important role in regulating development and neurogenesis. Previous microRNA sequencing analyses of Schistosoma japonicum revealed sja-miR-124-3p differential expression patterns in schistosomes from different hosts and at different developmental stages. This study explores the regulatory role of sja-miR-124-3p in S. japonicum development and reproduction. Quantitative reverse-transcription PCR (qRT-PCR) showed that the expression level of sja-miR-124-3p in S. japonicum from resistant hosts, such as Microtus fortis, and unsuitable hosts, such as rats and water buffalo, was significantly higher than that in mice and yellow cattle at the same developmental stage. Overexpressing sja-miR-124-3p in infected mice led to a hepatic egg reduction rate of 36.97%, smaller egg granulomas in the livers, increased liver weight, subsided hepatocyte necrosis, and diminished inflammatory cell infiltration. The width of female worms increased but decreased in males. The vitelline cells were irregular, swollen, or fused. The teguments and ventral sucker of males and females were swollen and broken, but the morphological changes were particularly notable in males. qRT-PCR and dual-luciferase reporter assay system were used to confirm the in-silico-predicted target genes, S. japonicum DEAD-box ATP-dependent RNA helicase 1 (sjDDX1) and DNA polymerase II subunit 2 (sjPOLE2). Our results showed that RNA interference (RNAi)-mediated sjDDX1 silencing in mice provided a 24.55% worm reduction rate and an 18.36% egg reduction rate, but the difference was not significant (p > 0.05). Thus, our findings suggest that sja-miR-124-3p has an important role in growth, development, and reproduction in S. japonicum. All these results will greatly contribute toward providing important clues for searching vaccine candidates and new drug targets against schistosomiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Zhou
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Prevention and Control, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
- National Reference Laboratory for Animal Schistosomiasis, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Yang Hong
- National Reference Laboratory for Animal Schistosomiasis, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Yang Hong, ; Jiaojiao Lin, ; Guoqing Li,
| | - Zheng Shang
- National Reference Laboratory for Animal Schistosomiasis, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Asmaa M. I. Abuzeid
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Prevention and Control, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
- Parasitology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - Jiaojiao Lin
- National Reference Laboratory for Animal Schistosomiasis, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Yang Hong, ; Jiaojiao Lin, ; Guoqing Li,
| | - Guoqing Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Prevention and Control, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Yang Hong, ; Jiaojiao Lin, ; Guoqing Li,
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15
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Bahaaeldine MA, El Garhy M, Fahmy SR, Mohamed AS. In vitro anti-Toxocara vitulorum effect of silver nanoparticles. J Parasit Dis 2022; 46:409-420. [DOI: 10.1007/s12639-021-01464-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
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Rashed HAEH, Abu Almaaty AH, Soliman MFM, El-Shenawy NS. The in Vitro Antischistosomal Activity and Genotoxicity of the Active Ingredients of Allium sativum (allicin) and Curcuma longa (curcumin). IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PARASITOLOGY 2021; 16:101-110. [PMID: 33786052 PMCID: PMC7988669 DOI: 10.18502/ijpa.v16i1.5540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Background: In this study, we assessed the in vitro antischistosomal activity of the active ingredients of Allium sativum (allicin) and Curcuma longa (curcumin) on Schistosoma mansoni. Methods: This study was conducted in Faculty of Science, Port said University, Egypt (2018). Adult worms were exposed to a range of concentrations of AL or CU, and worm survival was assessed 24 h post-exposure to calculate the lethal concentration of the compounds. Scanning electron microscopy was used to assess ultrastructural changes in the surface of AL- or CU- treated worms. The genotoxicities of AL and CU on S. mansoni were determined by DNA fragmentation analysis. Results: We determined the concentrations of AL and CU required to kill 50% of S. mansoni (LC50
). The LC50 of AL was 8.66 μL/mL, whereas 100% mortality of S. mansoni was achieved by AL at concentrations of 50 μL/mL. The LC50 of CU was 87.25 μL/mL, with the highest mortality of 91.3% seen after 24 h exposure to 100 μg/mL CU. Ultrastructural studies revealed that exposure to either AL or CU led to mild or severe surface damage to S. mansion, respectively. The degree of damage in the worms was sex-dependent. Interestingly, while CU exposure resulted in DNA fragmentation in S. mansoni worms, we observed no genotoxic effects of AL. Conclusion: Both AL and CU exhibit antischistosomal activity; the study provided evidence suggesting that these compounds act through distinct mechanisms. These promising results encourage further investigation into these compounds as potential antischistosomal agents, either alone or as complementary treatments to praziquantel.
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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.
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Effects of Curcumin and Its Analogues on Infectious Diseases. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1291:75-101. [PMID: 34331685 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-56153-6_5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Infectious diseases (IDs) are life-threatening illnesses, which result from the spread of pathogenic microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. IDs are a major challenge for the healthcare systems around the world, leading to a wide variety of clinical manifestations and complications. Despite the capability of frontline-approved medications to partially prevent or mitigate the invasion and subsequent damage of IDs to host tissues and cells, problems such as drug resistance, insufficient efficacy, unpleasant side effects, and high expenses stand in the way of their beneficial applications. One strategy is to evaluate currently explored and available bioactive compounds as possible anti-microbial agents. The natural polyphenol curcumin has been postulated to possess various properties including anti-microbial activities. Studies have shown that it possess pleiotropic effects against bacterial- and parasitic-associating IDs including drug-resistant strains. Curcumin can also potentiate the efficacy of available anti-bacterial and anti-parasitic drugs in a synergistic fashion. In this review, we summarize the findings of these studies along with reported controversies of native curcumin and its analogues, alone and in combination, toward its application in future studies as a natural anti-bacterial and anti-parasitic agent.
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Rehman A, Rehman L, Ullah R, Beg MA, Khan MAH, Abidi SMA. Oxidative status and changes in the adenosine deaminase activity in experimental host infected with tropical liver fluke, Fasciola gigantica. Acta Trop 2021; 213:105753. [PMID: 33166513 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2020.105753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2020] [Revised: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Fine tuning of the metabolic, physiological and immunological cues along with interplay between the biomolecules of the host and the parasite could be responsible for the successful establishment of parasitic infections. The present investigation was aimed at evaluating the oxidative status and the level of adenosine deaminase (ADA) in the serum and liver of rabbits experimentally infected with Fasciola gigantica. A significant increase in level of ROS, MDA and 4-HNE along with a decline in the SOD, CAT, GR and GST activity was evident in rabbits experimentally infected with Fasciola gigantica. However, there was an increase in the GPX activity in the sera of infected rabbits. The increased GPX activity and decreased GR activity would have resulted in the depletion of GSH, a key non-enzymatic antioxidant, in the infected animals. The level of GSSG was also found to be higher in the sera and liver tissues of the infected rabbits along with a decline in the GSH/GSSG ratio, indicating a high level of oxidative stress in the infected animals, which also showed a significant increase in the activity of the marker enzymes of liver pathology, AST and ALT. Further, a significant inhibition of the adenosine deaminase (ADA) activity in the infected rabbits was accompanied with the reduction in the level of pro-inflammatory cytokine, IL-6 while the anti-inflammatory cytokine, IL-4 level was significantly elevated. In conclusion, the F. gigantica induced significant oxidative stress as evident from the increased levels of ROS and lipid peroxidation along with the disruption of antioxidant and detoxification cascade ultimately lead to pathogenic and inflammatory responses in the experimental host. Whereas, the altered ADA activity could modulate the host's immune responses toward Th-2 type and would facilitate the successful establishment of flukes within their host, thus indicating that ADA could be exploited as a target for the development of novel anthelmintic drugs against fasciolosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdur Rehman
- Section of Parasitology, Department of Zoology, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, India.
| | - Lubna Rehman
- Section of Parasitology, Department of Zoology, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, India
| | - Rizwan Ullah
- Section of Parasitology, Department of Zoology, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, India
| | - Mirza A Beg
- Section of Parasitology, Department of Zoology, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, India
| | - M A Hannan Khan
- Section of Parasitology, Department of Zoology, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, India; Department of Zoology, School of Biosciences and Biotechnology, BGSB University, Jammu and Kashmir, India
| | - S M A Abidi
- Section of Parasitology, Department of Zoology, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, India.
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Joardar N, Guevara-Flores A, Martínez-González JDJ, Sinha Babu SP. Thiol antioxidant thioredoxin reductase: A prospective biochemical crossroads between anticancer and antiparasitic treatments of the modern era. Int J Biol Macromol 2020; 165:249-267. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2020.09.096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Revised: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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22
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In vivo assessment of the antischistosomal activity of curcumin loaded nanoparticles versus praziquantel in the treatment of Schistosoma mansoni. Sci Rep 2020; 10:15742. [PMID: 32978497 PMCID: PMC7519097 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-72901-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a serious parasitic infection affecting millions worldwide. This study aimed to explore the anti-schistosomal activity of curcumin and curcumin loaded gold-nanoparticles (Cur-GNPs) with or without praziquantel (PZQ). We used six groups of the C57BL/6 mice in which five groups were infected with Schistosoma Mansoni (S. mansoni) cercariae and exhibited, separately, to different treatment regimens of curcumin, curcumin loaded nanoparticle, and PZQ, in addition to one untreated group which acts as a control. Mice were sacrificed at the 8th week where both worms and eggs were counted in the hepatic and porto-mesenteric vessels in the liver and intestine, respectively, in addition to a histopathological examination of the liver granuloma. Curcumin caused a significant reduction in the worms and egg count (45.45%) at the 3rd week. A significant schistosomicidal effect of PZQ was found in all groups. Cur-GNPs combined with PZQ 97.4% reduction of worm burden in the 3rd week and the highest reduction in the intestinal and hepatic egg content, as well, besides 70.1% reduction of the granuloma size. The results suggested the curcumin in combination with PZQ as a strong schistosomicidal regimen against S. mansoni as it alters the hematological, biochemical, and immunological changes induced.
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Gouveia MJ, Brindley PJ, Gärtner F, Vale N. Activity of Combinations of Antioxidants and Anthelmintic Drugs against the Adult Stage of Schistosoma mansoni. J Parasitol Res 2020; 2020:8843808. [PMID: 32832132 PMCID: PMC7429017 DOI: 10.1155/2020/8843808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Revised: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis remains a major neglected tropical disease. The treatment and control of schistosomiasis rely on a single drug, praziquantel (PZQ). Despite its efficacy, treatment with PZQ presents some major drawbacks including an inability of the chemotherapy to reverse disease-induced fibrosis and the prospect of the emergence of drug resistance. Here, we investigated a novel therapeutic approach with antioxidant biomolecules in combination with PZQ against the adult developmental stage of Schistosoma mansoni and oviposition in vitro, given that this therapeutic approach achieved synergistic/additive activity against larval schistosomes. The antioxidants curcumin and oxadiazole per se exhibited antischistosomal activity against adult worms leading to severe morphological alterations and death. Additionally, the antioxidant flavone combined with vandetanib or imatinib improved antischistosomal activity against adult forms. By contrast, however, these antioxidant-anthelmintic combinations were not as effective against adults in comparison to larval schistosomes. Nevertheless, the antioxidants alone or combined with drugs inhibited oviposition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria João Gouveia
- Department of Molecular Pathology and Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- Center for the Study in Animal Science, University of Porto (CECA/ICETA), Rua de D. Manuel II, Apartado 55142, 4051-401 Porto, Portugal
| | - Paul J. Brindley
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Tropical Medicine, Research Center for Neglected Diseases of Poverty, School of Medicine & Health Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC 20037, USA
| | - Fátima Gärtner
- Department of Molecular Pathology and Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (IPATIMUP), Rua Júlio Amaral de Carvalho 45, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- i3S, Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde da Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen 208, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Nuno Vale
- OncoPharma Research Group, Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS), Rua Dr. Plácido da Costa, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Al. Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
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Matos JL, da Silva KR, de Lima Paula LA, Cunha WR, Ramos SB, Rodrigues V, Cabral FJ, Magalhães LG. Molluscicidal and cercaricidal activities of curcumin on Biomphalaria glabrata and Schistosoma mansoni cercariae. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2020; 76:1228-1234. [PMID: 31587497 DOI: 10.1002/ps.5631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2019] [Revised: 09/09/2019] [Accepted: 09/12/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Schistosomiasis control in endemic areas depends on several factors, including chemotherapy, snail control and adequate sanitation. In this context, the employment of compounds isolated from plants is an important issue regarding infection and snail control. The aim of this study was therefore to evaluate the effects of curcumin (CUR), a compound isolated from Curcuma longa, against snails and embryos of Biomphalaria glabrata, which is the most important intermediate host of schistosomiasis in the Americas, as well as in cercariae, the infecting larval stage of Schistosoma mansoni. RESULTS CUR presented high activity against B. glabrata embryos and moderate activity against newborn and adult snails. The lethal concentration (LC50 ) values after being exposed for 24 h and evaluated for 7 days were 6.54 (95% confidence interval (CI) 5.86-7.30) μg mL-1 for the embryos and 42.29 (95% CI 33.82-52.87) μg mL-1 and 87.69 (95% CI 68.82-111.7) μg mL-1 for the newborn and adult snails, respectively. Moreover, CUR inhibited the development of embryos and egg hatching, and decreased the fecundity rates of adult snails. CUR also demonstrated cercaricidal activity with LC50 values lower than 10 μg mL-1 at 1, 3, 6, 9 and 12 h, respectively. CONCLUSION Our data show that CUR has potential molluscicidal and cercaricidal activities. Moreover, as a nutraceutical compound that is toxic to both invertebrate host and parasite, CUR has the potential to be explored as a safe new agent to combat schistosomiasis. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaqueline L Matos
- Research Group on Natural Products, Center for Research in Sciences and Technology, University of Franca, Franca, Brazil
| | - Karen R da Silva
- Research Group on Natural Products, Center for Research in Sciences and Technology, University of Franca, Franca, Brazil
| | - Lucas A de Lima Paula
- Research Group on Natural Products, Center for Research in Sciences and Technology, University of Franca, Franca, Brazil
| | - Wilson R Cunha
- Research Group on Natural Products, Center for Research in Sciences and Technology, University of Franca, Franca, Brazil
| | - Salvador B Ramos
- Department of Health Promotion, University of Franca, Franca, Brazil
| | - Vanderlei Rodrigues
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, College of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Fernanda J Cabral
- Department of Animal Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Lizandra G Magalhães
- Research Group on Natural Products, Center for Research in Sciences and Technology, University of Franca, Franca, Brazil
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Vale N, Gouveia MJ, Gärtner F. Current and Novel Therapies Against Helminthic Infections: The Potential of Antioxidants Combined with Drugs. Biomolecules 2020; 10:E350. [PMID: 32106428 PMCID: PMC7175190 DOI: 10.3390/biom10030350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Revised: 02/02/2020] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Infections caused by Schistosoma haematobium and Opisthorchisviverrini are classified as Group 1 biological carcinogen and it has been postulated that parasites produce oxysterol and estrogen-like metabolites that might be considered as initiators of infection-associated carcinogenesis. Chemotherapy for these helminthic infections relies on a single drug, praziquantel, (PZQ) that mainly targets the parasite. Additionally, PZQ has some major drawbacks as inefficacy against juvenile form and alone it is not capable to counteract pathologies associated to infections or prevent carcinogenesis. There is an urgent need to develop novel therapeutic approaches that not only target the parasite but also improve the pathologies associated to infection, and ultimately, counteract or/and prevent the carcinogenesis processes. Repurposing the drug in combination of compounds with different modes of action is a promising strategy to find novel therapeutics approaches against these helminthic infections and its pathologies. Here, we emphasized that using antioxidants either alone or combined with anthelmintic drugs could ameliorate tissue damage, infection-associated complications, moreover, could prevent the development of cancer associated to infections. Hence, antioxidants represent a potential adjuvant approach during treatment to reduce morbidity and mortality. Despite the success of some strategies, there is a long way to go to implement novel therapies for schistosomiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuno Vale
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Drug Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- i3S, Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, University of Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen 208, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal;
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (IPATIMUP), Rua Júlio Amaral de Carvalho 45, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Department of Molecular Pathology and Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal;
| | - Maria João Gouveia
- Department of Molecular Pathology and Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal;
- Center for the Study in Animal Science (CECA/ICETA), University of Porto, Rua de D. Manuel II, Apt 55142, 4051-401 Porto, Portugal
| | - Fátima Gärtner
- i3S, Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, University of Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen 208, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal;
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (IPATIMUP), Rua Júlio Amaral de Carvalho 45, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Department of Molecular Pathology and Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal;
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Rehman A, Ullah R, Gupta D, Khan MH, Rehman L, Beg MA, Khan AU, Abidi S. Generation of oxidative stress and induction of apoptotic like events in curcumin and thymoquinone treated adult Fasciola gigantica worms. Exp Parasitol 2020; 209:107810. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2019.107810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2019] [Revised: 08/28/2019] [Accepted: 11/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Ganoderma Lucidum induces oxidative DNA damage and enhances the effect of 5-Fluorouracil in colorectal cancer in vitro and in vivo. MUTATION RESEARCH-GENETIC TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL MUTAGENESIS 2019; 845:403065. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mrgentox.2019.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2019] [Revised: 05/31/2019] [Accepted: 06/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Rangel-Castañeda IA, Carranza-Rosales P, Guzmán-Delgado NE, Hernández-Hernández JM, González-Pozos S, Pérez-Rangel A, Castillo-Romero A. Curcumin Attenuates the Pathogenicity of Entamoeba histolytica by Regulating the Expression of Virulence Factors in an Ex-Vivo Model Infection. Pathogens 2019; 8:pathogens8030127. [PMID: 31443160 PMCID: PMC6789811 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens8030127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2019] [Revised: 08/08/2019] [Accepted: 08/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Infection with the enteric protozoan Entamoeba histolytica is still a serious public health problem, especially in developing countries. Amoebic liver abscess (ALA) is the most common extraintestinal manifestation of the amoebiasis, and it can lead to serious and potentially life-threatening complications in some people. ALA can be cured by metronidazole (MTZ); however, because it has poor activity against luminal trophozoites, 40–60% of treated patients get repeated episodes of invasive disease and require repeated treatments that can induce resistance to MTZ, this may emerge as an important public health problem. Anti-virulence strategies that impair the virulence of pathogens are one of the novel approaches to solving the problem. In this study, we found that low doses of curcumin (10 and 50 μM) attenuate the virulence of E. histolytica without affecting trophozoites growth or triggering liver injury. Curcumin (CUR) decreases the expression of genes associated with E. histolytica virulence (gal/galnac lectin, ehcp1, ehcp5, and amoebapore), and is correlated with significantly lower amoebic invasion. In addition, oxidative stress is critically involved in the etiopathology of amoebic liver abscess; our results show no changes in mRNA expression levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) after E. histolytica infection, with or without CUR. This study provides clear evidence that curcumin could be an anti-virulence agent against E. histolytica, and makes it an attractive potential starting point for effective treatments that reduce downstream amoebic liver abscess.
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Affiliation(s)
- Itzia Azucena Rangel-Castañeda
- Departamento de Fisiología, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara 44340, Mexico
| | - Pilar Carranza-Rosales
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica del Noreste, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Monterrey 64720, Mexico
| | | | - José Manuel Hernández-Hernández
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Centro de Investigación y Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México 07360, Mexico
| | - Sirenia González-Pozos
- Unidad de Microscopía Electrónica LaNSE, Centro de Investigación y Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México 07360, Mexico
| | - Armando Pérez-Rangel
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Centro de Investigación y Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México 07360, Mexico
| | - Araceli Castillo-Romero
- Departamento de Microbiología y Patología, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara 44340, Mexico.
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Brandão-Bezerra L, de Carvalho Martins JSC, de Oliveira RMF, Lopes-Torres EJ, Neves RH, Corrêa CL, Machado-Silva JR. Long-term ethanol intake causes morphological changes in Schistosoma mansoni adult worms in mice. Exp Parasitol 2019; 203:30-35. [PMID: 31150655 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2019.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2018] [Revised: 05/03/2019] [Accepted: 05/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Schistosoma mansoni adult worms are extensively challenged by reactive oxygen species from intrinsic sources. However, the effects of extrinsic sources such as ethanol have not been looked at in schistosomes. We examined adult worms recovered from ethanol-consuming mice by light (LM), confocal (CM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to address this question. Schistosomiasis-infected mice were orally gavaged with 18% (v/v) ethanol from 35 to 63 days post-infection, when they were euthanized. CM examination revealed reduced germ cells density (-36%, p = 0.0001) and sperm density (-58%, p = 0.0001) in testicular lobes, and immature cells in seminal vesicle compared to unexposed control worms. Female worms showed reduced density of vitellin glands (-71%, p = 0.0001), maturation of oocytes (-7%, p = 0.0071) and reduced spermatozoa density (-23%, p = 0.0002) within the seminal receptacle. SEM revealed remarkable damages in male's tegument, including tubercles flattening, tegumental peeling and erosive lesions. Given that lipids are present in reproductive system and tegument, our results suggest that phenotypic changes are due to ethanol-induced lipid peroxidation. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report revealing the biological action of ethanol intake on adult schistosomes in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciana Brandão-Bezerra
- Romero Lascasas Porto Laboratory of Helminthology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, School of Medical Sciences, Rio de Janeiro State University, Brazil
| | - Jéssica Santa Cruz de Carvalho Martins
- Romero Lascasas Porto Laboratory of Helminthology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, School of Medical Sciences, Rio de Janeiro State University, Brazil
| | - Regina Maria Figueiredo de Oliveira
- Romero Lascasas Porto Laboratory of Helminthology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, School of Medical Sciences, Rio de Janeiro State University, Brazil
| | - Eduardo José Lopes-Torres
- Romero Lascasas Porto Laboratory of Helminthology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, School of Medical Sciences, Rio de Janeiro State University, Brazil
| | - Renata Heisler Neves
- Romero Lascasas Porto Laboratory of Helminthology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, School of Medical Sciences, Rio de Janeiro State University, Brazil
| | - Christiane Leal Corrêa
- Department of Pathology and Laboratories, School of Medical Sciences, Rio de Janeiro State University, Brazil; Medicine School, Estácio de Sá University, Brazil
| | - José Roberto Machado-Silva
- Romero Lascasas Porto Laboratory of Helminthology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, School of Medical Sciences, Rio de Janeiro State University, Brazil.
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Durán-Pérez SA, López-Moreno HS, Jiménez-Edeza M, Parra-Unda JR, Rangel-López E, Rendón-Maldonado JG. Upregulation of Cathepsin B-like Protease Activity During Apoptosis inGiardia duodenalis. CURR PROTEOMICS 2019. [DOI: 10.2174/1570164616666190204112452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Background:In eukaryotic cells, apoptosis signaling pathways are controlled mainly by aspartic acid cysteine proteases (caspases). However, certain unicellular microorganisms, such as Giardia duodenalis, lack these proteins. Thus, other cysteine proteases may play an important role in the parasite apoptosis signaling pathway.Objective:To understand the effect of cathepsin B-like inhibition on the cell viability of Giardia duodenalis and its cell death process.Methods:Bioinformatics analysis was performed to identify apoptotic proteases. Analysis showed that cathepsin B-like protease genes from G. duodenalis were the best candidate. A homology modeling technique was used to explore in silico the inhibitory effect of E-64 against cathepsin B-like proteases from G. duodenalis genome and to examine the effect of curcumin on cathepsin B-like activity regulation. In addition, the effect of E-64 on parasite survival and DNA fragmentation was tested.Results:Eight cathepsin B-like protease coding genes were identified in silico. Interestingly, while these sequences lacked the cathepsin B characteristic occluding loop, they maintained the catalytic active- site responsible for cathepsin B activity, which was evidenced by the increase in the degradation of the Z-RR-AMC substrate, suggesting the upregulation of the activity of these proteins. Additionally, inhibition of E-64 against G. duodenalis trophozoites caused a decrease in DNA fragmentation compared to control cells and had a positive effect on parasite survival after exposure to curcumin.Conclusion:Overall, these results suggested that Giardia duodenalis might have a cell death mechanism in which cathepsin B-like proteases play an important role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Alonso Durán-Pérez
- Doctorate in Biotechnology, Faculty of Biological Chemistry Sciences, Autonomous University of Sinaloa, Calzada de las Americas Norte 2771, Bureaucrat, 80030 Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico
| | - Héctor Samuel López-Moreno
- Doctorate in Biotechnology, Faculty of Biological Chemistry Sciences, Autonomous University of Sinaloa, Calzada de las Americas Norte 2771, Bureaucrat, 80030 Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico
| | - Maribel Jiménez-Edeza
- Doctorate in Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biological Chemistry Sciences, Autonomous University of Sinaloa, Calzada de las Americas Norte 2771, Bureaucrat, 80030 Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico
| | - Jesús Ricardo Parra-Unda
- Doctorate in Biotechnology, Faculty of Biological Chemistry Sciences, Autonomous University of Sinaloa, Calzada de las Americas Norte 2771, Bureaucrat, 80030 Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico
| | - Edgar Rangel-López
- Laboratory of Amino Acids Exciters, National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery Manuel Velasco Suarez, Insurgentes Sur 3877, 14269, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - José Guadalupe Rendón-Maldonado
- Doctorate in Biotechnology, Faculty of Biological Chemistry Sciences, Autonomous University of Sinaloa, Calzada de las Americas Norte 2771, Bureaucrat, 80030 Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico
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Itzia Azucena RC, José Roberto CL, Martin ZR, Rafael CZ, Leonardo HH, Gabriela TP, Araceli CR. Drug Susceptibility Testing and Synergistic Antibacterial Activity of Curcumin with Antibiotics against Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli. Antibiotics (Basel) 2019; 8:antibiotics8020043. [PMID: 31003468 PMCID: PMC6627278 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics8020043] [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: 03/24/2019] [Revised: 04/11/2019] [Accepted: 04/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim: This study investigated the susceptibility of Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli to curcumin, as well as its synergistic effect with 12 antimicrobial drugs. Methods and Results: Our study shows that curcumin did not affect bacterial growth. The antimicrobial susceptibility of curcumin and antibiotic synergy were identified using disc diffusion on Mueller-Hinton agar. The strain of Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli used was resistant to Ampicillin, Amoxicillin/Clavulanic acid, Ampicillin/Sulbactam, Ciprofloxacin, and Cefazolin. There was synergy between curcumin and the majority of antibiotics tested. Maximum synergy was observed with combinations of 330 µg/mL curcumin and Ceftazidime, followed by Cefotaxime, Amoxicillin/Clavulanic acid, Ampicillin, Aztreonam, Trimethoprim, Ciprofloxacin, Ceftriaxone, Cefazolin, Tetracycline, and Imipenem. Conclusion: Our findings indicated that curcumin might be useful as a combinatorial strategy to combat the antibiotic resistance of Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rangel-Castañeda Itzia Azucena
- Departamento de Fisiología, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Guadalajara, Calle Sierra Mojada 950, Independencia Oriente, Guadalajara 44340, Jalisco, Mexico.
| | - Cruz-Lozano José Roberto
- Departamento de Química, Centro Universitario de Ciencias Exactas e Ingenierías, Universidad de Guadalajara, Blvd. Marcelino García Barragán 1421, Guadalajara 44430, Jalisco, Mexico.
| | - Zermeño-Ruiz Martin
- Departamento de Microbiología y Patología, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Guadalajara, Calle Sierra Mojada 950, Independencia Oriente, Guadalajara 44340, Jalisco, Mexico.
| | - Cortes-Zarate Rafael
- Departamento de Microbiología y Patología, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Guadalajara, Calle Sierra Mojada 950, Independencia Oriente, Guadalajara 44340, Jalisco, Mexico.
| | - Hernández-Hernández Leonardo
- Departamento de Fisiología, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Guadalajara, Calle Sierra Mojada 950, Independencia Oriente, Guadalajara 44340, Jalisco, Mexico.
| | - Tapia-Pastrana Gabriela
- Hospital Regional de Alta Especialidad de Oaxaca, Calle Aldama S/N, 71256 San Bartolo Coyotepec, Oax, Mexico.
| | - Castillo-Romero Araceli
- Departamento de Microbiología y Patología, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Guadalajara, Calle Sierra Mojada 950, Independencia Oriente, Guadalajara 44340, Jalisco, Mexico.
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Abou El Dahab MM, Shahat SM, Mahmoud SSM, Mahana NA. In vitro effect of curcumin on Schistosoma species viability, tegument ultrastructure and egg hatchability. Exp Parasitol 2019; 199:1-8. [PMID: 30790572 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2019.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2018] [Revised: 01/01/2019] [Accepted: 02/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis remains a severe problem of public health in developing countries. The development of resistance to praziquantel (PZQ) has justified the search for new alternative chemotherapies with new formulations, more effective, and without adverse effects. Curcumin (CUR), the major phenolic compound present in rhizome of turmeric (Curcuma longa L.), has been traditionally used against various diseases including parasitic infections. Here, the antischistosomal activity of CUR (50-500 μM), evaluated in parallel against S. mansoni and S. haematobium adult worms, appeared significant (P < 0.05 to < 0.0001) in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Two h incubation with CUR (500 μM) caused 100% irreversible killing of both schistosomal species. CUR (250 μM) caused the death of S. haematobium and S. mansoni worms after 2 h and 4 h, respectively. As CUR concentration decreases (50 μM), all coupled adult worms were separated into individual male and female but the worms remained viable up to 4 h. Scanning and transmission electron microscopy revealed that S. haematobium are more sensitive than S. mansoni to CUR schistosomicidal effects. In support, CUR was found to affect the antigenicity of surface membrane molecules of S. haematobium, but not S. mansoni. Of importance, CUR significantly (P < 0.05 to < 0.0001) affected S. mansoni eggs hatchability and viability, a ground for its use in chemotherapy of schistosomiasis mansoni and japonicum because of its increased bioavailability in the gastrointestinal tract. The data together emphasize that CUR is a promising potential schistosomicidal drug.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Antigens, Helminth/immunology
- Antigens, Helminth/isolation & purification
- Antigens, Surface/immunology
- Antigens, Surface/isolation & purification
- Cricetinae
- Curcumin/pharmacology
- Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
- Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay
- Female
- Intestine, Small/parasitology
- Liver/parasitology
- Male
- Mesocricetus
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred BALB C
- Microscopy, Electron, Scanning
- Microscopy, Electron, Transmission
- Ovum/drug effects
- Ovum/physiology
- Schistosoma haematobium/drug effects
- Schistosoma haematobium/immunology
- Schistosoma haematobium/physiology
- Schistosoma haematobium/ultrastructure
- Schistosoma mansoni/drug effects
- Schistosoma mansoni/immunology
- Schistosoma mansoni/physiology
- Schistosoma mansoni/ultrastructure
- Schistosomicides/pharmacology
- Time Factors
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Affiliation(s)
- Marwa M Abou El Dahab
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza, 12613, Egypt; Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University, Cairo, 11566, Egypt
| | - Sondos M Shahat
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza, 12613, Egypt
| | | | - Noha A Mahana
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza, 12613, Egypt.
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Almeer RS, El-Khadragy MF, Abdelhabib S, Abdel Moneim AE. Ziziphus spina-christi leaf extract ameliorates schistosomiasis liver granuloma, fibrosis, and oxidative stress through downregulation of fibrinogenic signaling in mice. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0204923. [PMID: 30273397 PMCID: PMC6166951 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0204923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2018] [Accepted: 09/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a widespread parasitic infection that affects humans, as well as wild and domestic animals. It ranks second after malaria, with a significant health and socio-economic impact in the developing countries. The objective of this study was to assess the anti-schistosomal impact of Ziziphus spina-christi leaf extract (ZLE) on Schistosoma mansoni-induced liver fibrosis in CD-1 Swiss male albino mice. S. mansoni infection was achieved by dipping of mouse tails in schistosomal cercariae. ZLE treatment was initiated at 46 days post-infection by administering a dose of the extract on a daily basis for 10 consecutive days. S. mansoni infection resulted in liver granuloma and fibrosis, with a drastic elevation in liver function factors, nitric oxide, and lipid peroxidation, which were associated with a reduction in glutathione content and substantial inhibition of antioxidant enzyme activities compared to those of the control. Induction of hepatic granuloma, oxidative stress, and fibrosis in the liver was controlled by ZLE administration, which also produced inhibition of matrix metalloproteinase-9, alpha-smooth muscle actin, transforming growth factor-β, and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases expressions. In addition, the S. mansoni-infected group exhibited an increase in Bax and caspase-3 levels and a decrease in Bcl-2 level. However, treatment with ZLE mainly mitigated apoptosis in the liver. Thus, the findings of this study revealed that Ziziphus spina-christi had anti-apoptotic, anti-fibrotic, antioxidant, and protective effects on S. mansoni-induced liver wounds. The benefits of Ziziphus spina-christi extract on S. mansoni were partly partially mediated by enhancing anti-fibrinogenic and nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafa S. Almeer
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- * E-mail: (RSA); (AEA)
| | - Manal F. El-Khadragy
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Zoology and Entomology, Faculty of Science, Helwan University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Semlali Abdelhabib
- Genome Research Chair, Department of Biochemistry, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed E. Abdel Moneim
- Department of Zoology and Entomology, Faculty of Science, Helwan University, Cairo, Egypt
- * E-mail: (RSA); (AEA)
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Peng RY, Ren HJ, Zhang CL, Lv P, Wei GH, Ming L. Comparative proteomics analysis of Trichinella spiralis muscle larvae exposed to albendazole sulfoxide stress. Acta Trop 2018; 185:183-192. [PMID: 29287759 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2017.12.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2017] [Revised: 12/15/2017] [Accepted: 12/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
The drug albendazole (ABZ) has a positive effect against Trichinella spiralis infection and has been used for the treatment and prevention of trichinellosis in humans and animals. However, the molecular mechanism ofthe effects of ABZ on T. spiralis remains unknown. Albendazole sulfoxide (ABZSO) is the main intermediary metabolic product of ABZ, and it is often used as a substitute for ABZ in metabolism and bioavailability research. Herein, isobaric tagging reagents for relative and absolute quantification (iTRAQ)-based LC-MS/MS analysis was used to identify the effect of ABZSO on the proteome of T. spiralis muscle larvae in vitro. 3795 proteins were quantified from 22974 unique peptides. Comparative proteomics analysis displayed that 417 proteins were remarkably differentially expressed in ABZSO-treated larvae, of which 213 proteins were up-regulated and 204 proteins were down-regulated. Quantitative real-time PCR of ten randomly-selected genes verified the proteomic data. Gene ontology annotation and KEGG pathway analysis showed that most of the differentially expressed proteins were involved in cell apoptosis, signal pathway, amino acid metabolism, protein synthesis/assembly/degradation and other biological processes. This study firstly provided the comprehensive proteomics data of T. spiralis in response to ABZSO, and would help us to deeply understand the molecular mechanism of ABZSO effects on T. spiralis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruo Yu Peng
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China; Key Clinical Laboratory of Henan Province, Zhengzhou 450052, China
| | - Hui Jun Ren
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China; Key Clinical Laboratory of Henan Province, Zhengzhou 450052, China
| | - Chun Li Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, The People's Hospital of Zhengzhou, Zhengzhou 450003, China
| | - Pin Lv
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China; Key Clinical Laboratory of Henan Province, Zhengzhou 450052, China
| | - Gao Hui Wei
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China; Key Clinical Laboratory of Henan Province, Zhengzhou 450052, China
| | - Liang Ming
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China; Key Clinical Laboratory of Henan Province, Zhengzhou 450052, China.
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Gouveia MJ, Brindley PJ, Gärtner F, Costa JMCD, Vale N. Drug Repurposing for Schistosomiasis: Combinations of Drugs or Biomolecules. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2018; 11:E15. [PMID: 29401734 PMCID: PMC5874711 DOI: 10.3390/ph11010015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2017] [Revised: 01/19/2018] [Accepted: 01/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a major neglected tropical disease. Control of schistosomiasis currently relies on a single drug, praziquantel, and despite its efficacy against the all schistosome species that parasitize humans, it displays some problematic drawbacks and alone is ineffective in counteracting adverse pathologies associated with infection. Moreover, due to the development of the potential emergence of PZQ-resistant strains, the search for additional or alternative antischistosomal drugs have become a public health priority. The current drug discovery for schistosomiasis has been slow and uninspiring. By contrast, repurposing of existing approved drugs may offer a safe, rapid and cost-effective alternative. Combined treatment with PZQ and other drugs with different mode of action, i.e., antimalarials, shows promise results. In addition, a combination of anthelminthic drugs with antioxidant might be advantageous for modulating oxidative processes associated with schistosomiasis. Herein, we review studies dealing with combination therapies that involve PZQ and other anthelminthic drugs and/or antioxidant agents in treatment of schistosomiasis. Whereas PZQ combined with antioxidant agents might or might not interfere with anthelminthic efficacy, combinations may nonetheless ameliorate tissue damage and infection-associated complications. In fact, alone or combine with other drugs, antioxidants might be a valuable adjuvant to reduce morbidity and mortality of schistosomiasis. Therefore, attempting new combinations of anthelmintic drugs with other biomolecules such as antioxidants provides new avenues for discovery of alternatives to PZQ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria João Gouveia
- UCBIO/REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Drug Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
- Center for the Study of Animal Science, ICETA, University of Porto, Praça Gomes Teixeira, Apartado 55142, 4031-401 Porto, Portugal.
- Department of Molecular Pathology and Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
| | - Paul J Brindley
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Tropical Medicine, and Research Center for Neglected Diseases of Poverty, School of Medicine & Health Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC 20037, USA.
| | - Fátima Gärtner
- Department of Molecular Pathology and Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (IPATIMUP), Rua Júlio Amaral de Carvalho, 45, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal.
- Institute of Investigation and Innovation in Health (i3s), Rua Alfredo Allen, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal.
| | - José M Correia da Costa
- Center for the Study of Animal Science, ICETA, University of Porto, Praça Gomes Teixeira, Apartado 55142, 4031-401 Porto, Portugal.
- Department of Infectious Diseases, INSA-National Health Institute Dr. Ricardo Jorge, Rua Alexandre Herculano 321, 4000-055 Porto, Portugal.
| | - Nuno Vale
- UCBIO/REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Drug Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
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Ali A, Bovilla VR, Mysarla DK, Siripurapu P, Pathak RU, Basu B, Mamillapalli A, Bhattacharya S. Knockdown of Broad-Complex Gene Expression of Bombyx mori by Oligopyrrole Carboxamides Enhances Silk Production. Sci Rep 2017; 7:805. [PMID: 28400559 PMCID: PMC5429751 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-00653-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2015] [Accepted: 12/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Bombyx mori (B. mori) is important due to its major role in the silk production. Though DNA binding ligands often influence gene expression, no attempt has been made to exploit their use in sericulture. The telomeric heterochromatin of B. mori is enriched with 5'-TTAGG-3' sequences. These sequences were also found to be present in several genes in the euchromatic regions. We examined three synthetic oligopyrrole carboxamides that target 5'-TTAGG-3' sequences in controlling the gene expression in B. mori. The ligands did not show any defect or feeding difference in the larval stage, crucial for silk production. The ligands caused silencing of various isoforms of the broad-complex transcription factor and cuticle proteins which resulted in late pupal developmental defects. Furthermore, treatment with such drugs resulted in statistically enhanced cocoon weight, shell weight, and silk yield. This study shows for the first time use of oligopyrrole carboxamide drugs in controlling gene expression in B. mori and their long term use in enhancing silk production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asfa Ali
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, 560 012, India
| | - Venugopal Reddy Bovilla
- Department of Biotechnology, GITAM Institute of Science, GITAM University, Visakhapatnam, 530 045, India
| | - Danti Kumari Mysarla
- Department of Biotechnology, GITAM Institute of Science, GITAM University, Visakhapatnam, 530 045, India
| | - Prasanthi Siripurapu
- Department of Biotechnology, GITAM Institute of Science, GITAM University, Visakhapatnam, 530 045, India
| | - Rashmi U Pathak
- Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Hyderabad, 500 007, India
| | - Bhakti Basu
- Molecular Biology Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai, 400 085, India
| | - Anitha Mamillapalli
- Department of Biotechnology, GITAM Institute of Science, GITAM University, Visakhapatnam, 530 045, India
| | - Santanu Bhattacharya
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, 560 012, India. .,Director's Research Unit, and Technical Research Centre, Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science, Jadavpur, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700 032, India.
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