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Hooda P, Malik R, Bhatia S, Al-Harrasi A, Najmi A, Zoghebi K, Halawi MA, Makeen HA, Mohan S. Phytoimmunomodulators: A review of natural modulators for complex immune system. Heliyon 2024; 10:e23790. [PMID: 38205318 PMCID: PMC10777011 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e23790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
In the past few decades, the medicinal properties of plants and their effects on the human immune system are being studied extensively. Plants are an incredible source of traditional medicines that help cure various diseases, including altered immune mechanisms and are economical and benign compared to allopathic medicines. Reported data in written documents such as Traditional Chinese medicine, Indian Ayurvedic medicine support the supplementation of botanicals for immune defense reactions in the body and can lead to safe and effective immunity responses. Additionally, some botanicals are well-identified as magical herbal remedies because they act upon the pathogen directly and help boost the immunity of the host. Chemical compounds, also known as phytochemicals, obtained from these botanicals looked promising due to their effects on the human immune system by modulating the lymphocytes which subsequently reduce the chances of getting infected. This paper summarises most documented phytochemicals and how they act on the immune system, their properties and possible mechanisms, screening conventions, formulation guidelines, comparison with synthetic immunity-enhancers, marketed immunity-boosting products, and immune-booster role in the ongoing ghastly corona virus wave. However, it focuses mainly on plant metabolites as immunomodulators. In addition, it also sheds light on the current advancements and future possibilities in this field. From this thorough study, it can be stated that the plant-based secondary metabolites contribute significantly to immunity building and could prove to be valuable medicaments for the design and development of novel immunomodulators even for a pandemic like COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Partibha Hooda
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana, India
| | - Rohit Malik
- Gurugram Global College of Pharmacy, Gurugram, India
- SRM Modi Nagar College of Pharmacy, SRMIST, Delhi-NCR Campus, Ghaziabad, India
| | - Saurabh Bhatia
- School of Health Science, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India
- Natural & Medical Sciences Research Centre, University of Nizwa, Birkat Al Mauz, Oman
| | - Ahmed Al-Harrasi
- Natural & Medical Sciences Research Centre, University of Nizwa, Birkat Al Mauz, Oman
| | - Asim Najmi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, P.O. Box 114, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khalid Zoghebi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, P.O. Box 114, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Maryam A. Halawi
- Department of Clinical pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, P.O. Box 114, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hafiz A. Makeen
- Department of Clinical pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, P.O. Box 114, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Syam Mohan
- Substance Abuse and Toxicology Research Centre, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
- Center for Global health Research, Saveetha Medical College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, India
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Wrońska N, Płaczkowska S, Niedziałkowska K, Lisowska K. The Synergistic Effect of Biosynthesized Silver Nanoparticles and Phytocompound as a Novel Approach to the Elimination of Pathogens. Molecules 2023; 28:7921. [PMID: 38067650 PMCID: PMC10707795 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28237921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2023] [Revised: 11/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Due to the wide applications of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), research on their ecological synthesis has been extensive in recent years. In our study, biogenic silver nanoparticles were synthesized extracellularly using the white rot fungus Trametes versicolor via two cultivation methods: static and shaking. The cell filtrate of the fungus was used as a reducing agent in the process of nanoparticle synthesis. Characterization of the obtained nanoparticles was carried out using UV-VIS spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The biosynthesized nanoparticles have antimicrobial potential against pathogenic bacteria, particularly in Gram-negative strains. The bactericidal effect was obtained for E. coli at a concentration of 7 µg/mL. The use of higher concentrations of compounds was necessary for Gram-positive bacteria. Taking into account the problem of the risk of cytotoxicity of AgNPs, combined therapy using a phytochemical was used for the first time, which was aimed at reducing the doses of nanoparticles. The most representative synergistic effect was observed in the treatment of 5 µg/mL silver nanoparticles in combination with 15 µg/mL ursolic acid against E. coli and P. aeruginosa with a bactericidal effect. Moreover, the coadministration of nanoparticles considerably reduced the growth of both Staphylococcus strains, with a bactericidal effect against S. aureus. The viability test confirmed the strong synergistic effect of both tested compounds. Silver nanoparticles synthesized using the T. versicolor showed excellent antibacterial potential, which opens perspectives for future investigations concerning the use of the nanoparticles as antimicrobials in the areas of health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Wrońska
- Department of Industrial Microbiology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, 12/16 Banacha Street, 90-236 Lodz, Poland; (S.P.); (K.N.); (K.L.)
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Noor G, Badruddeen, Akhtar J, Singh B, Ahmad M, Khan MI. An outlook on the target-based molecular mechanism of phytoconstituents as immunomodulators. Phytother Res 2023; 37:5058-5079. [PMID: 37528656 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7969] [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: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023]
Abstract
The immune system is one of the essential defense mechanisms. Immune system inadequacy increases the risk of infections and cancer diseases, whereas over-activation of the immune system causes allergies or autoimmune disorders. Immunomodulators have been used in the treatment of immune-related diseases. There is growing interest in using herbal medicines as multicomponent agents to modulate the complex immune system in immune-related diseases. Many therapeutic phytochemicals showed immunomodulatory effects by various mechanisms. This mechanism includes stimulation of lymphoid cell, phagocytosis, macrophage, and cellular immune function enhancement. In addition increased antigen-specific immunoglobulin production, total white cell count, and inhibition of TNF-α, IFN-γ, NF-kB, IL-2, IL-6, IL-1β, and other cytokines that influenced the immune system. This review aims to overview, widely investigated plant-derived phytoconstituents by targeting cells to modulate cellular and humoral immunity in in vivo and in vitro. However, further high-quality research is needed to confirm the clinical efficacy of plant-based immunomodulators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gazala Noor
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Integral University, Lucknow, India
| | - Badruddeen
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Integral University, Lucknow, India
| | - Juber Akhtar
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Integral University, Lucknow, India
| | - Bhuwanendra Singh
- Department of Pharmacognosy, S.D. College of Pharmacy and Vocational Studies, Muzaffarnagar, India
| | - Mohammad Ahmad
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Integral University, Lucknow, India
| | - Mohammad Irfan Khan
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Integral University, Lucknow, India
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Cai C, Zhi Y, Xie C, Geng S, Sun F, Ji Z, Zhang P, Wang H, Tang J. Ursolic acid-downregulated long noncoding RNA ASMTL-AS1 inhibits renal cell carcinoma growth via binding to HuR and reducing vascular endothelial growth factor expression. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2023; 37:e23389. [PMID: 37300450 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.23389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
It has been reported ursolic acid (UA), one of the naturally abundant pentacyclic triterpenes, possesses a wide range of biological activities including anti-inflammatory, anti-atherosclerotic, and anticancer properties. Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is a severe malignancy due to its asymptomatically spreading ability. Our study aimed to investigate the role and molecular mechanism of UA in RCC. RCC cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and angiogenesis were assessed using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide, Transwell, and tube formation assays. Xenograft tumor models were established to confirm the role of UA and long noncoding RNA ASMTL antisense RNA 1 (ASMTL-AS1) in vivo. Expression levels of ASMTL-AS1 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were measured using reverse transcriptase quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis. The interaction probabilities of ASMTL-AS1 or VEGF with RNA-binding protein human antigen R (HuR) were verified by RNA immunoprecipitation experiment. The half-life period of messenger RNA (mRNA) was determined using actinomycin D. UA inhibited RCC cell growth in vivo and tumorigenesis in vitro. ASMTL-AS1 was highly expressed in RCC cell lines. Of note, UA downregulated ASMTL-AS1 expression, and overexpressed ASMTL-AS1 reversed the UA-induced suppression on RCC cell migration, invasion, and tube formation. Additionally, ASMTL-AS1 bound to HuR to maintain the stability of VEGF mRNA. Rescue experiments showed that the suppressed malignancy of RCC cells mediated by ASMTL-AS1 knockdown was counteracted by overexpression of VEGF. Moreover, silenced ASMTL-AS1 inhibited RCC tumor growth and metastasis in vivo. The obtained data suggest UA as a promising therapeutic agent to attenuate the development of RCC via regulation of the targeted molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengkuan Cai
- Department of Urology, The First People's Hospital of Lianyungang, The Affiliated Lianyungang Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Lianyungang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yunlai Zhi
- Department of Urology, The First People's Hospital of Lianyungang, The Affiliated Lianyungang Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Lianyungang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Cheng Xie
- Department of Urology, The First People's Hospital of Lianyungang, The Affiliated Lianyungang Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Lianyungang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shen Geng
- Department of Urology, The First People's Hospital of Lianyungang, The Affiliated Lianyungang Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Lianyungang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Fanghu Sun
- Department of Urology, The First People's Hospital of Lianyungang, The Affiliated Lianyungang Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Lianyungang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhengshuai Ji
- Department of Urology, The First People's Hospital of Lianyungang, The Affiliated Lianyungang Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Lianyungang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Pengcheng Zhang
- Department of Urology, The First People's Hospital of Lianyungang, The Affiliated Lianyungang Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Lianyungang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Urology, The First People's Hospital of Lianyungang, The Affiliated Lianyungang Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Lianyungang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jingyuan Tang
- Department of Urology, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
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Riaz M, Khalid R, Afzal M, Anjum F, Fatima H, Zia S, Rasool G, Egbuna C, Mtewa AG, Uche CZ, Aslam MA. Phytobioactive compounds as therapeutic agents for human diseases: A review. Food Sci Nutr 2023; 11:2500-2529. [PMID: 37324906 PMCID: PMC10261751 DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.3308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Phytobioactive compounds are plant secondary metabolites and bioactive compounds abundantly present in medicinal plants and have remarkable therapeutic potential. Oxidative stress and antibiotic resistance are major causes of present-day ailments such as diabetes, atherosclerosis, cardiovascular disorders, cancer, and inflammation. The data for this review were collected from Google Scholar, PubMed, Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ), and Science Direct by using keywords: "Medicinal plants, Phytobioactive compounds, Polyphenols, Alkaloids, Carotenoids etc." Several studies have reported the pharmacological and therapeutic potential of the phytobioactives. Polyphenols, alkaloids, terpenes, and polysaccharides isolated from medicinal plants showed remarkable antioxidant, anticancer, cytotoxic, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, immunomodulatory, neuroprotective, and antidiabetic activities. This literature review was planned to provide comprehensive insight into the biopharmacological and therapeutic potential of phytobioactive compounds. The techniques used for the extraction and isolation of phytobioactive compounds, and bioassays required for their biological activities such as antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and cytotoxic activities, have been discussed. Characterization techniques for the structural elucidation of phytobioactive compounds such as HPLC, TLC, FTIR, GC-MS/MS, and NMR have also been discussed. This review concludes that phytobioactive compounds may be used as potential alternative to synthetic compounds as therapeutic agents for the treatment of various diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Riaz
- Department of Allied Health SciencesUniversity of SargodhaSargodhaPakistan
| | - Ramsha Khalid
- Department of BiochemistryUniversity of AgricultureFaisalabadPakistan
| | | | - Fozia Anjum
- Department of ChemistryGovernment College UniversityFaisalabadPakistan
| | - Hina Fatima
- Department of BiochemistryUniversity of AgricultureFaisalabadPakistan
- Department of Basic and Applied Chemistry, Faculty of Science and TechnologyUniversity of Central PunjabLahorePakistan
| | - Saadiya Zia
- Department of BiochemistryUniversity of AgricultureFaisalabadPakistan
| | - Ghulam Rasool
- Department of Allied Health SciencesUniversity of SargodhaSargodhaPakistan
| | - Chukwuebuka Egbuna
- Africa Centre of Excellence in Public Health and Toxicological Research (ACE‐PUTOR), Nutritional Biochemistry and Toxicology UnitUniversity of Port‐HarcourtPort HarcourtNigeria
| | - Andrew G. Mtewa
- Chemistry Section, Malawi Institute of TechnologyMalawi University of Science and TechnologyLimbeMalawi
| | - Chukwuemelie Zedech Uche
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Basic Medical SciencesUniversity of NigeriaEnuguNigeria
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Akter R, Rahman MR, Ahmed ZS, Afrose A. Plausibility of natural immunomodulators in the treatment of COVID-19-A comprehensive analysis and future recommendations. Heliyon 2023; 9:e17478. [PMID: 37366526 PMCID: PMC10284624 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e17478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has inflicted millions of deaths worldwide. Despite the availability of several vaccines and some special drugs approved for emergency use to prevent or treat this disease still, there is a huge concern regarding their effectiveness, adverse effects, and most importantly, their efficacy against the new variants. A cascade of immune-inflammatory responses is involved with the pathogenesis and severe complications with COVID-19. People with dysfunctional and compromised immune systems display severe complications, including acute respiratory distress syndrome, sepsis, multiple organ failure etc., when they get infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Plant-derived natural immune-suppressant compounds, such as resveratrol, quercetin, curcumin, berberine, luteolin, etc., have been reported to inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. Therefore, natural products with immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory potential could be plausible targets to treat this contagious disease. This review aims to delineate the clinical trials status and outcomes of natural compounds with immunomodulatory potential in COVID-19 patients along with the outcomes of their in-vivo studies. In clinical trials several natural immunomodulators resulted in significant improvement of COVID-19 patients by diminishing COVID-19 symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, and breathlessness. Most importantly, they reduced the duration of hospitalization and the need for supplemental oxygen therapy, improved clinical outcomes in patients with COVID-19, especially weakness, and eliminated acute lung injury and acute respiratory distress syndrome. This paper also discusses many potent natural immunomodulators yet to undergo clinical trials. In-vivo studies with natural immunomodulators demonstrated reduction of a wide range of proinflammatory cytokines. Natural immunomodulators that were found effective, safe, and well tolerated in small-scale clinical trials are warranted to undergo large-scale trials to be used as drugs to treat COVID-19 infections. Alongside, compounds yet to test clinically must undergo clinical trials to find their effectiveness and safety in the treatment of COVID-19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raushanara Akter
- School of Pharmacy, Brac University, 66 Mohakhali, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Md Rashidur Rahman
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Biological Science and Technology, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore, 7408, Bangladesh
| | - Zainab Syed Ahmed
- School of Pharmacy, Brac University, 66 Mohakhali, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Afrina Afrose
- School of Pharmacy, Brac University, 66 Mohakhali, Dhaka, Bangladesh
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Ursolic Acid Analogs as Potential Therapeutics for Cancer. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27248981. [PMID: 36558113 PMCID: PMC9785537 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27248981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Ursolic acid (UA) is a pentacyclic triterpene isolated from a large variety of vegetables, fruits and many traditional medicinal plants. It is a structural isomer of Oleanolic Acid. The medicinal application of UA has been explored extensively over the last two decades. The diverse pharmacological properties of UA include anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiviral, antioxidant, anti-proliferative, etc. Especially, UA holds a promising position, potentially, as a cancer preventive and therapeutic agent due to its relatively non-toxic properties against normal cells but its antioxidant and antiproliferative activities against cancer cells. Cell culture studies have shown interference of UA with multiple pharmacological and molecular targets that play a critical role in many cells signaling pathways. Although UA is considered a privileged natural product, its clinical applications are limited due to its low absorption through the gastro-intestinal track and rapid elimination. The low bioavailability of UA limits its use as a therapeutic drug. To overcome these drawbacks and utilize the importance of the scaffold, many researchers have been engaged in designing and developing synthetic analogs of UA via structural modifications. This present review summarizes the synthetic UA analogs and their cytotoxic antiproliferative properties reported in the last two decades.
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Mioc M, Milan A, Malița D, Mioc A, Prodea A, Racoviceanu R, Ghiulai R, Cristea A, Căruntu F, Șoica C. Recent Advances Regarding the Molecular Mechanisms of Triterpenic Acids: A Review (Part I). Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23147740. [PMID: 35887090 PMCID: PMC9322890 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23147740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Triterpenic acids are phytocompounds with a widespread range of biological activities that have been the subject of numerous in vitro and in vivo studies. However, their underlying mechanisms of action in various pathologies are not completely elucidated. The current review aims to summarize the most recent literature, published in the last five years, regarding the mechanism of action of three triterpenic acids (asiatic acid, oleanolic acid, and ursolic acid), corelated with different biological activities such as anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, cardioprotective, neuroprotective, hepatoprotective, and antimicrobial. All three discussed compounds share several mechanisms of action, such as the targeted modulation of the PI3K/AKT, Nrf2, NF-kB, EMT, and JAK/STAT3 signaling pathways, while other mechanisms that proved to only be specific for a part of the triterpenic acids discussed, such as the modulation of Notch, Hippo, and MALAT1/miR-206/PTGS1 signaling pathway, were highlighted as well. This paper stands as the first part in our literature study on the topic, which will be followed by a second part focusing on other triterpenic acids of therapeutic value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marius Mioc
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Sq., No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (M.M.); (A.M.); (A.P.); (R.R.); (R.G.); (A.C.); (C.Ș.)
- Research Centre for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Sq., No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Andreea Milan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Sq., No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (M.M.); (A.M.); (A.P.); (R.R.); (R.G.); (A.C.); (C.Ș.)
- Research Centre for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Sq., No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Daniel Malița
- Department of Radiology, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Correspondence: (D.M.); (A.M.); Tel.: +40-256-494-604 (D.M. & A.M.)
| | - Alexandra Mioc
- Research Centre for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Sq., No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, Pathophysiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Sq., No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Correspondence: (D.M.); (A.M.); Tel.: +40-256-494-604 (D.M. & A.M.)
| | - Alexandra Prodea
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Sq., No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (M.M.); (A.M.); (A.P.); (R.R.); (R.G.); (A.C.); (C.Ș.)
- Research Centre for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Sq., No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Roxana Racoviceanu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Sq., No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (M.M.); (A.M.); (A.P.); (R.R.); (R.G.); (A.C.); (C.Ș.)
- Research Centre for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Sq., No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Roxana Ghiulai
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Sq., No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (M.M.); (A.M.); (A.P.); (R.R.); (R.G.); (A.C.); (C.Ș.)
- Research Centre for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Sq., No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Andreea Cristea
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Sq., No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (M.M.); (A.M.); (A.P.); (R.R.); (R.G.); (A.C.); (C.Ș.)
| | - Florina Căruntu
- Department of Medical Semiology II, Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babeş” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 2 Eftimie Murgu Street, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Codruța Șoica
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Sq., No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (M.M.); (A.M.); (A.P.); (R.R.); (R.G.); (A.C.); (C.Ș.)
- Research Centre for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Sq., No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
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Hajj RE, Tawk L, Itani S, Hamie M, Ezzeddine J, El Sabban M, El Hajj H. Toxoplasmosis: Current and Emerging Parasite Druggable Targets. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9122531. [PMID: 34946133 PMCID: PMC8707595 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9122531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is a prevalent disease affecting a wide range of hosts including approximately one-third of the human population. It is caused by the sporozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii), which instigates a range of symptoms, manifesting as acute and chronic forms and varying from ocular to deleterious congenital or neuro-toxoplasmosis. Toxoplasmosis may cause serious health problems in fetuses, newborns, and immunocompromised patients. Recently, associations between toxoplasmosis and various neuropathies and different types of cancer were documented. In the veterinary sector, toxoplasmosis results in recurring abortions, leading to significant economic losses. Treatment of toxoplasmosis remains intricate and encompasses general antiparasitic and antibacterial drugs. The efficacy of these drugs is hindered by intolerance, side effects, and emergence of parasite resistance. Furthermore, all currently used drugs in the clinic target acute toxoplasmosis, with no or little effect on the chronic form. In this review, we will provide a comprehensive overview on the currently used and emergent drugs and their respective parasitic targets to combat toxoplasmosis. We will also abridge the repurposing of certain drugs, their targets, and highlight future druggable targets to enhance the therapeutic efficacy against toxoplasmosis, hence lessening its burden and potentially alleviating the complications of its associated diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rana El Hajj
- Department of Biological Sciences, Beirut Arab University, P.O. Box 11-5020, Riad El Solh, Beirut 1107 2809, Lebanon;
| | - Lina Tawk
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Balamand, Beirut 1100 2807, Lebanon; (L.T.); (J.E.)
| | - Shaymaa Itani
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, P.O. Box 11-0236, Riad El-Solh, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon; (S.I.); (M.H.)
| | - Maguy Hamie
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, P.O. Box 11-0236, Riad El-Solh, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon; (S.I.); (M.H.)
| | - Jana Ezzeddine
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Balamand, Beirut 1100 2807, Lebanon; (L.T.); (J.E.)
| | - Marwan El Sabban
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, P.O. Box 11-0236, Riad El-Solh, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon;
| | - Hiba El Hajj
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, P.O. Box 11-0236, Riad El-Solh, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon; (S.I.); (M.H.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +961–1-350000 (ext. 4897)
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Zhang J, Chen J, Lv K, Li B, Yan B, Gai L, Shi C, Wang X, Si H, Zhang J. Myrislignan Induces Redox Imbalance and Activates Autophagy in Toxoplasma gondii. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:730222. [PMID: 34540720 PMCID: PMC8447958 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.730222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is an important health problem in human and animals, and the highlighting side effects of launched therapeutic chemicals cannot be ignored. Thus, it is urgent to develop new drugs to against the infection. Myrislignan originated from nutmeg exhibited excellent anti-T. gondii activity in vitro and in vivo, and was able to destroy mitochondrial function. However, the exact mechanism of action is still unknown. In this study, combining RNAs deep-sequencing analysis and surface plasmon resonance (SPR) analysis, the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and high affinity proteins suggested that myrislignan may affect the oxidation-reduction process of T. gondii. Furthermore, the upregulating ROS activity after myrislignan incubation verified that myrislignan destroyed the oxidant-antioxidant homeostasis of tachyzoites. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) indicated that myrislignan induced the formation of autophagosome-like double-membrane structure. Moreover, monodansyl cadaverine (MDC) staining and western blot further illustrated autophagosome formation. Myrislignan treatment induced a significant reduction in T. gondii by flow cytometry analysis. Together, these findings demonstrated that myrislignan can induce the oxidation-reduction in T. gondii, lead to the autophagy, and cause the death of T. gondii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jili Zhang
- Intensive Care Unit, The Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China.,Ningbo University School of Medicine, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Jia Chen
- Ningbo University School of Medicine, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Kun Lv
- Ningbo University School of Business, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Bing Li
- Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Biqing Yan
- Intensive Care Unit, The Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Lei Gai
- Intensive Care Unit, The Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Chaolu Shi
- Intensive Care Unit, The Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Xinnian Wang
- Intensive Care Unit, The Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Hongfei Si
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiyu Zhang
- Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China
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11
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Preclinical Assessment of Ursolic Acid Loaded into Nanostructured Lipid Carriers in Experimental Visceral Leishmaniasis. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13060908. [PMID: 34205283 PMCID: PMC8235317 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13060908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Ursolic acid, a triterpene produced by plants, displayed leishmanicidal activity in vitro and in vivo; however, the low solubility of this triterpene limits its efficacy. To increase the activity of ursolic acid (UA), this triterpene was entrapped in nanostructured lipid carriers (UA-NLC), physical-chemical parameters were estimated, the toxicity was assayed in healthy golden hamsters, and the efficacy of UA-NLC was studied in experimental visceral leishmanisis. UA-NLC exhibited a spherical shape with a smooth surface with a size of 266 nm. UA-NLC displayed low polydispersity (PDI = 0.18) and good colloidal stability (-29.26 mV). Hamsters treated with UA-NLC did not present morphological changes in visceral organs, and the levels of AST, ALT, urea and creatinine were normal. Animals infected with Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum and treated with UA-NLC showed lower parasitism than the infected controls, animals treated with UA or Amphotericin B (AmB). The therapeutic activity of UA-NLC was associated with the increase in a protective immune response, and it was associated with a high degree of spleen and liver preservation, and the normalization of hepatic and renal functions. These data indicate that the use of lipid nanoparticles as UA carriers can be an interesting strategy for the treatment of leishmaniasis.
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12
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Peng F, Zhang H, He X, Song Z. Effects of Ursolic Acid on Intestinal Health and Gut Bacteria Antibiotic Resistance in Mice. Front Physiol 2021; 12:650190. [PMID: 34122127 PMCID: PMC8195277 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.650190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Ursolic acid (UA), a natural pentacyclic triterpenoid, has been widely reported to exert anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, the effects of UA on the intestinal homeostasis and gut microbiota were rarely explored. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of UA on intestinal health and gut microflora antibiotic-resistance in antibiotic-exposed mice. Kunming mice (n = 80) were randomly allocated into three groups and fed with one of the following diets, respectively: Cont group (n = 20), the basal diet; UA group (n = 20), the basal diet supplemented with 150 mg/kg UA; Tet group (n = 40), the basal diet supplemented with 659 mg/kg chlortetracycline. After 14 days, 10 mice in each group were euthanatized and the remaining 30 mice in the Tet group were randomly allocated into three sub-groups (n = 10 per group) as follows: the Tet group which were kept feeding a Tet diet for 14 days; the Natural Restoration (NatR) group which received a basal diet for 14 days; and the UA therapy (UaT) group which fed a basal diet supplemented with 150 mg/kg UA for 14 days. Throughout the experiment, the weight and the food intake of each mouse were recorded once weekly. Serum LPS and diamine oxidase (DAO), jejunal morphology, jejunal tight junction proteins and nutrient transporters, colonic inflammatory cytokines, gut microbiota and its antibiotic resistance gene (ARG) were examined at euthanasia. The results showed that UA treatment significantly increased average daily food intake (ADFI) of mice. Notably, UA increased the jejunal villi height, decreased the jejunal crypt depth and promoted the expression of jejunum nutrient transporters. UaT group had higher villi height, lower crypt depth and higher nutrient transporter mRNA expression in jejunum than NatR group. Besides, UA decreased serum DAO content, upregulated mRNA expression of ZO-1, claudin-1 and occludin and downregulated TNF-α and IL-6. The mRNA abundances of ZO-1, claudin-1 and occludin and TNF-α and IL-6 in UaT group were, respectively upregulated and downregulated than NatR group. Furthermore, an analysis of 16S rDNA sequences demonstrated that UA increased the abundance of beneficial bacteria in the gut. And the results of ARG test showed that UA downregulated the expression of antibiotic-induced resistance genes. The UaT group inhibited the increase of harmful bacteria abundance and suppressed the mRNA abundances of ARG compared to the NatR group. In conclusion, considering the positive effects of UA on the growth performance and intestinal mucosal barrier, we anticipate that these findings could be a stepping stone for developing UA as a novel substitute of antibiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Peng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China.,Ministry of Education Engineering Research Center of Feed Safety and Efficient Use, Changsha, China
| | - Haihan Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China.,Ministry of Education Engineering Research Center of Feed Safety and Efficient Use, Changsha, China
| | - Xi He
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China.,Ministry of Education Engineering Research Center of Feed Safety and Efficient Use, Changsha, China
| | - Zehe Song
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China.,Ministry of Education Engineering Research Center of Feed Safety and Efficient Use, Changsha, China
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13
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Smith NC, Goulart C, Hayward JA, Kupz A, Miller CM, van Dooren GG. Control of human toxoplasmosis. Int J Parasitol 2020; 51:95-121. [PMID: 33347832 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2020.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is caused by Toxoplasma gondii, an apicomplexan parasite that is able to infect any nucleated cell in any warm-blooded animal. Toxoplasma gondii infects around 2 billion people and, whilst only a small percentage of infected people will suffer serious disease, the prevalence of the parasite makes it one of the most damaging zoonotic diseases in the world. Toxoplasmosis is a disease with multiple manifestations: it can cause a fatal encephalitis in immunosuppressed people; if first contracted during pregnancy, it can cause miscarriage or congenital defects in the neonate; and it can cause serious ocular disease, even in immunocompetent people. The disease has a complex epidemiology, being transmitted by ingestion of oocysts that are shed in the faeces of definitive feline hosts and contaminate water, soil and crops, or by consumption of intracellular cysts in undercooked meat from intermediate hosts. In this review we examine current and future approaches to control toxoplasmosis, which encompass a variety of measures that target different components of the life cycle of T. gondii. These include: education programs about the parasite and avoidance of contact with infectious stages; biosecurity and sanitation to ensure food and water safety; chemo- and immunotherapeutics to control active infections and disease; prophylactic options to prevent acquisition of infection by livestock and cyst formation in meat; and vaccines to prevent shedding of oocysts by definitive feline hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas C Smith
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia; Research School of Biology, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 0200, Australia.
| | - Cibelly Goulart
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia; Research School of Biology, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 0200, Australia
| | - Jenni A Hayward
- Research School of Biology, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 0200, Australia
| | - Andreas Kupz
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD 4878, Australia
| | - Catherine M Miller
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Science, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD 4878, Australia
| | - Giel G van Dooren
- Research School of Biology, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 0200, Australia
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14
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Immunogenicity and Protective Effect of a Virus-Like Particle Containing the SAG1 Antigen of Toxoplasma gondii as a Potential Vaccine Candidate for Toxoplasmosis. Biomedicines 2020; 8:biomedicines8040091. [PMID: 32325746 PMCID: PMC7235809 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines8040091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Revised: 03/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
This study was carried out to evaluate the vaccination effect of a virus-like particle (VLP) including the surface antigen 1 (SAG1) of Toxoplasma gondii as a potential vaccine for toxoplasmosis. The SAG1 virus-like particles (SAG1-VLPs) were expressed by Sf9 cells, and their expression was confirmed through cloning, RT-PCR analysis, and western blot method. The immunogenicity and vaccine efficacy of SAG1-VLPs were assessed by the antibody response, cytokine analysis, neutralization activity, splenocyte assay, and survival rates through a mouse model. In particular, IgG, IgG1, IgG2a, and IgA were markedly increased after immunization, and the survival rates of T. gondii were strongly inhibited by the immunized sera. Furthermore, the immunization of SAG1-VLPs effectively decreased the production of specific cytokines, such as IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and IFN-γ, after parasite infection. In particular, the immunized group showed strong activity and viability compared with the non-immunized infection group, and their survival rate was 75%. These results demonstrate that SAG1-VLP not only has the immunogenicity to block T. gondii infection by effectively inducing the generation of specific antibodies against T. gondii, but is also an effective antigen delivery system for preventing toxoplasmosis. This study indicates that SAG1-VLP can be effectively utilized as a promising vaccine candidate for preventing or inhibiting T. gondii infection.
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15
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Bilbao-Ramos P, Serrano DR, Ruiz Saldaña HK, Torrado JJ, Bolás-Fernández F, Dea-Ayuela MA. Evaluating the Potential of Ursolic Acid as Bioproduct for Cutaneous and Visceral Leishmaniasis. Molecules 2020; 25:E1394. [PMID: 32204358 PMCID: PMC7144553 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25061394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Revised: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Leishmaniasis affects around 12 million people worldwide and is estimated to cause the ninth-largest disease burden. There are three main forms of the disease, visceral (VL), cutaneous (CL), and mucocutaneous (MCL), leading to more than one million new cases every year and several thousand deaths. Current treatments based on chemically synthesized molecules are far from ideal. In this study, we have tested the in vitro and in vivo efficacy of ursolic acid (UA), a multifunctional triterpenoid with well-known antitumoral, antioxidant, and antimicrobial effects on different Leishmania strains. The in vitro antileishmanial activity against the intracellular forms was six and three-fold higher compared to extracellular forms of L. amazonensis and L. infantum, respectively. UA also showed to be a potent antileishmanial drug against both VL and CL manifestations of the disease in experimental models. UA parenterally administered at 5 mg/kg for seven days significantly reduced the parasite burden in liver and spleen not only in murine acute infection but also in a chronic-infection model against L. infantum. In addition, UA ointment (0.2%) topically administered for four weeks diminished (50%) lesion size progression in a chronic infection model of CL caused by L. amazonensis, which was much greater than the effect of UA formulated as an O/W emulsion. UA played a key role in the immunological response modulating the Th1 response. The exposure of Leishmania-infected macrophages to UA led to a significant different production in the cytokine levels depending on the Leishmania strain causing the infection. In conclusion, UA can be a promising therapy against both CL and VL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Bilbao-Ramos
- Departament of Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Pharmacy, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Plaza Ramón y Cajal s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (P.B.-R.); (F.B.-F.)
- Laboratorio de Parasitología y Entomología INLASA, Pasaje Rafael Zubieta #1889, (Lado Estado Mayor del ejército) Zona Miraflores, La Paz, Bolivia
| | - Dolores R. Serrano
- Departament of Pharmaceutics and Food Technology, School of Pharmacy, University Complutense, Avenida Complutense, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (D.R.S.); (H.K.R.S.); (J.J.T.)
- Institute of Industrial Pharmacy (IUFI), Plaza Ramon y Cajal, SN, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Helga Karina Ruiz Saldaña
- Departament of Pharmaceutics and Food Technology, School of Pharmacy, University Complutense, Avenida Complutense, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (D.R.S.); (H.K.R.S.); (J.J.T.)
| | - Juan J. Torrado
- Departament of Pharmaceutics and Food Technology, School of Pharmacy, University Complutense, Avenida Complutense, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (D.R.S.); (H.K.R.S.); (J.J.T.)
- Institute of Industrial Pharmacy (IUFI), Plaza Ramon y Cajal, SN, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Francisco Bolás-Fernández
- Departament of Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Pharmacy, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Plaza Ramón y Cajal s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (P.B.-R.); (F.B.-F.)
| | - María Auxiliadora Dea-Ayuela
- Departament of Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Pharmacy, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Plaza Ramón y Cajal s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (P.B.-R.); (F.B.-F.)
- Departament of Pharmacy, School of Health Science, Universidad CEU Cardenal Herrera, C/Ramón y Cajal s/n, 46115 Alfara del Patriarca (Valencia), Spain
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16
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Deng Y, Wu T, Zhai SQ, Li CH. Recent progress on anti-Toxoplasma drugs discovery: Design, synthesis and screening. Eur J Med Chem 2019; 183:111711. [PMID: 31585276 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2019.111711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2019] [Revised: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 09/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii severely threaten the health of immunocompromised patients and pregnant women as this parasite can cause several disease, including brain and eye disease. Current treatment for toxoplasmosis commonly have high cytotoxic side effects on host and require long durations ranging from one week to more than one year. The regiments lack efficacy to eradicate T. gondii tissue cysts to cure chromic infection results in the needs for long treatment and relapsing disease. In addition, there has not been approved drugs for treating the pregnant women infected by T. gondii. Moreover, Toxoplasma vaccine researches face a wide variety of challenges. Developing high efficient and low toxic agents against T. gondii is urgent and important. Over the last decade, tremendous progress have been made in identifying and developing novel compounds for the treatment of toxoplasmosis. This review summarized and discussed recent advances between 2009 and 2019 in exploring effective agents against T. gondii from five aspects of drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Deng
- Institute of Veterinary Sciences & Pharmaceuticals, Chongqing Academy of Animal Sciences, Rongchang, 402460, China
| | - Tao Wu
- Institute of Veterinary Sciences & Pharmaceuticals, Chongqing Academy of Animal Sciences, Rongchang, 402460, China
| | - Shao-Qin Zhai
- Institute of Veterinary Sciences & Pharmaceuticals, Chongqing Academy of Animal Sciences, Rongchang, 402460, China
| | - Cheng-Hong Li
- Institute of Veterinary Sciences & Pharmaceuticals, Chongqing Academy of Animal Sciences, Rongchang, 402460, China.
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