Effect of Diethylcarbamazine (DEC) on prostaglandin levels in Wuchereria bancrofti infected microfilaraemics

Abstract

Diethylcarbamazine (DEC) interferes with arachidonic acid metabolism for the clearance of microfilariae in Wuchereria bancrofti infected individuals. In this study, we have quantified the plasma concentrations of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and 6-keto-PGF1α, the end products of arachidonic acid metabolic pathway in microfilaraemics (DEC treated and untreated), and normal healthy individuals at pre- and 3,9,12,36, and 72h of post-DEC treatment. We have also determined the microfilariae counts at pre and post day 2 (36h) and day 3 (72h) of DEC treatment by membrane filtration technique. Significant reduction in PGE2 and 6-keto-PGF1α concentrations was found at 12h of DEC treatment. Rapid reduction in microfilarial counts was observed at 36h of post-DEC treatment. Higher levels of prostaglandins were found at pre-treatment hours in microfilaraemics compared to normal healthy individuals (P < 0.05). Our findings indicate that DEC inhibits prostaglandins for the clearance of microfilariae, and increased levels of prostaglandins in microfilaraemics may be contributed by the parasite or host upon stimulation.