Anti-toxoplasma and Cytotoxic Activities of Holothuria leucospilota Extract and TiO2NPs In vitro and In vivo

BACKGROUND

An impressive treatment for toxoplasmosis is the combinatory use of sulfadiazine and pyrimethamine. However, both the drugs involve significant side effects and toxicity for the host. Therefore, the discovery of new anti-toxoplasma medications with high efficacy and less to no side effects is urgently needed.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the anti-toxoplasmic effects of Holothuria leucospilota (H. leucospilota) extract and TiO₂NPs on the cell death of Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) tachyzoites in vitro and serum liver enzymes (AST, ALT, and ALP), and also to evaluate the immune response and production of IL-5, IFN-γ, and TNF-α in a mouse model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The cytotoxicity of TiO₂NPs and H. leucospilota extract against the tachyzoite of T. gondii was evaluated by the methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) assay. The levels of serum TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-5, and liver enzymes were measured, as well. All the groups were subjected to T. gondii, and the survival rate of experimental mice was evaluated.

RESULTS

Our findings suggested in vivo and in vitro anti-toxoplasmic activity of TiO₂NPs and H. leucospilota extract by inhibiting the proliferation and invasion of T. gondii tachyzoite. In addition, a significant increase in IFN-γ and TNF-α production was observed in mice treated with high doses of TiO₂NPs and H. leucospilota extract. However, IL-5 levels decreased in TiO₂NPs and H. leucospilota extract-treated mice. Our results also showed a highly significant increase (P < 0.05) in the levels of ALT, AST, and ALP in the groups injected with TiO₂NPs and H. leucospilota extract, but not the control group.

CONCLUSION

TiO₂NPs and H. leucospilota extract have greater anti-toxoplasma effects in vitro and in vivo. These two compounds could be considered as a candidate for use against toxoplasmosis, both therapeutically and prophylactically.