Antiparasitic Properties Research Articles

Ivermectin as a promising therapeutic option for onchocerciasis-associated epilepsy.

Onchocerciasis, commonly known as river blindness, is a neglected tropical disease caused by the parasite Onchocerca volvulus. It can lead to blindness and visual impairment. Studies have also demonstrated a link between onchocerciasis and epilepsy, with there being a correlation between onchocerciasis endemicity and epilepsy prevalence. Onchocerciasis-associated epilepsy (OAE) emerges predominantly in individuals aged 3-18, with a notable prevalence in regions where onchocerciasis transmission persists. These areas exhibit elevated rates of epilepsy, underscoring the significant impact of ongoing onchocerciasis on the incidence of epilepsy, particularly within the specified age range. Both epilepsy prevalence and incidence have evolved over the past three decades in a Tanzanian area endemic for onchocerciasis. Researchers have studied the effects of the antiparasitic drug ivermectin on OAE. About one third of Ugandan patients saw reduced seizure frequency or intensity after one 150 μg/kg dose. Clinical research in the Congo among infected epileptics on anti-seizure medications (ASMs) suggested ivermectin may decrease seizure frequency following oral administration of ivermectin tablets (3 mg). Beyond its antiparasitic properties, ivermectin has demonstrated anticonvulsant effects against clonic and tonic-clonic seizures, likely through modulation of GABAA receptor and neuroinflammation. There is evidence of synergistic effects when combined with GABAergic ASMs like diazepam. As neuroinflammation plays a key role in OAE, ivermectin's anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting cytokines like TNF-α and IL-1β are also relevant. While certain other antiparasitic drugs can interact with ASMs and have side effects like seizures, no such interactions or side effects have been reported for ivermectin. However, there is a need for more randomized controlled trials specifically evaluating ivermectin's impact on seizures in O. volvulus-infected epileptics on ASMs. Given its efficacy against parasites, limited side effects, and potential anticonvulsant mechanisms, ivermectin could be a favorable first-line treatment option, but further research is warranted to confirm benefits for OAE. PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY: This article explores the potential benefits of ivermectin, a drug commonly used to treat parasitic infections, for reducing seizures in people with epilepsy linked to onchocerciasis, also known as river blindness. Research shows that ivermectin not only targets the parasitic cause of the disease but may also help reduce brain inflammation, which plays a key role in epilepsy. While early results are promising, more research is needed to confirm whether ivermectin can be a reliable treatment for epilepsy in people affected by this condition.

Efficacy of spilanthol and Acmella oleracea (L.) R. K. Jansen (Asteraceae) extract against Schistosoma mansoni infection

Ethnopharmacological relevanceAcmella oleracea (L.) R. K. Jansen, commonly referred to as “Jambu”, is a valuable medicinal plant native to the Amazon regions. Inflorescences of A. oleracea is utilized as local anesthetic properties and for its insecticidal, antiparasitic, and anthelmintic attributes. Aims of this studyThis study aimed to evaluate the in vitro and in vivo antiparasitic properties of A. oleracea extract and spilanthol (SPL) against Schistosoma mansoni. Materials and methodsThe ethanolic extract of A. oleracea inflorescences (AoE) was prepared, analyzed by HPLC-DAD, and characterized by UHPLC-HRMS/MS. SPL was isolated from AoE by chromatographic fractionation. The antischistosomal properties of AoE and SPL were evaluated in vitro against adult schistosomes and in preclinical assays using murine models of patent S. mansoni infection. ResultsThrough UHPLC-HRMS/MS analysis, 14 alkamides were annotated in AoE. HPLC-DAD analysis of AoE revealed a peak with a substantial relative area of ∼85%, which was isolated and identified as SPL. AoE and SPL caused mortality of adult schistosomes ex vivo, showing EC50 values of 32.6 μg/mL and 27.8 μM, respectively, without affected Vero cells or Caenorhabditis elegans.In preclinical studies, the oral administration (400 mg/kg) of AoE and SPL resulted in significant reductions in worm burden of 28% and ∼42%, respectively. Additionally, SPL exhibits remarkable effects on oogram, decreasing egg burden and the number of immature eggs by over 80%, while also promoting significant reductions in hepato- and splenomegaly. ConclusionsThe research underscores the antischistosomal activity of A. oleracea highlighting the potential of SPL as a lead for the development of new schistosomicidal drugs and encouraging further studies to validate the traditional anthelmintic use of A. oleracea inflorescences.

Exploring Botanical Innovations in Fish Aquaculture: A Review of Biological Impacts and Industry Prospects

Culture fisheries play a crucial role in providing protein-rich sustenance for the expanding global population. However, the intensification of fish farming comes with a downside – heightened stress among fish, which subsequently escalates the risk of disease transmission. The emergence of resilient bacterial populations and the accumulation of residues in body tissues due to the use of drugs and chemicals have underscored the necessity for the development of environmentally friendly and durable solutions. Notably, there has been a recent upsurge in interest regarding the use of botanical products to enhance aquaculture practices. Plant derived secondary metabolites have demonstrated their efficacy in stimulating appetite, facilitating growth, boosting immune responses, and exhibiting antibacterial as well as anti-parasitic properties within the realm of aquaculture. This article aims to comprehensively examine the body of research on the application of plant-derived products in pisciculture, elucidating their effects on various biological aspects of fish, including growth patterns, immune system functionality, pigmentation, blood composition, and reproductive parameters. Furthermore, the article also delivers inputs into an assessment of the current status of these practices, the methodologies deployed, and the challenges encountered in integrating plant-based solutions into the aquaculture industry.

Recent advances in microbially derived chlorinated antiparasitic compounds.

Parasitic diseases remain a significant global health challenge, especially in developing countries, contributing to approximately one million deaths annually. Notably, among the 143 FDA-approved antiparasitic drugs, thirty-four possess chlorine in their chemical structure, highlighting the importance of chlorine substitution. This underscores the significance of chlorine atoms in elucidating structure-activity relationships crucial for drug discovery, aiming to develop safer, more selective, and environmentally friendly molecules with enhanced efficacy. Of particular interest some are naturally occurring chlorinated metabolites derived from PKS, NRPS, and PKS-NRPS biosynthetic pathways, which offer the potential for further manipulation. However, there is limited literature on antiparasitic chlorinated compounds from microbial sources. To address this, we conducted a comprehensive literature survey from 1963 to the present, identifying 28 chlorinated compounds with confirmed antiparasitic properties. This review underscores the potential of enzymatic machinery for selective chlorine substitution, offering insights for biochemists and synthetic chemists to develop versatile chlorinated compounds through synthetic biology, combinatorial chemistry, and organic synthesis.

Exploring the Antibacterial and Antiparasitic Activity of Phenylaminonaphthoquinones-Green Synthesis, Biological Evaluation and Computational Study.

Organic compounds with antibacterial and antiparasitic properties are gaining significance for biomedical applications. This study focuses on the solvent-free synthesis (green synthesis) of 1,4-naphthoquinone or 2,3-dichloro-1,4-naphthoquinone with different phenylamines using silica gel as an acid solid support. The study also includes in silico PASS predictions and the discovery of antibacterial and antiparasitic properties of phenylaminonaphthoquinone derivatives 1-12, which can be further applied in drug discovery and development. These activities were discussed in terms of molecular descriptors such as hydrophobicity, molar refractivity, and half-wave potentials. The in vitro antimicrobial potential of the synthesized compounds 1-12 was evaluated against a panel of six bacterial strains (three Gram-positive: Staphylococcus aureus, Proteus mirabilis, and Enterococcus faecalis; and three Gram-negative bacteria: Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhimurium, and Klebsiella pneumoniae). Six compounds (1, 3, 5, 7, 10, and 11) showed better activity toward S. aureus with MIC values between 3.2 and 5.7 μg/mL compared to cefazolin (MIC = 4.2 μg/mL) and cefotaxime (MIC = 8.9 μg/mL), two cephalosporin antibiotics. Regarding in vitro antiplasmodial activity, compounds 1 and 3 were the most active against the Plasmodium falciparum strain 3D7 (chloroquine-sensitive), displaying IC50 values of 0.16 and 0.0049 μg/mL, respectively, compared to chloroquine (0.33 μg/mL). In strain FCR-3 (chloroquine-resistant), most of the compounds showed good activity, with compounds 3 (0.12 μg/mL) and 11 (0.55 μg/mL) being particularly noteworthy. Additionally, docking studies were used to better rationalize the action and prediction of the binding modes of these compounds. Finally, absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET) predictions were performed.

Potential Benefits of Tannins on Ruminant Health, Production and Environmental Sustainability

Tannins are naturally occurring polyphenolic compounds increasingly recognized for their potential benefits to ruminants. Tannins can be extracted from plants' roots, bark, leaves, and seed husks. Management of plant communities to produce a diverse array of secondary compounds, particularly tannins, is a promising strategy for holistically enhancing agroecosystems on rangelands and benefiting free grazing ruminant animals. Deterioration of rangelands constrains plant diversity, reducing tanniferous forage plants and limiting tannin availability to free-grazing ruminants. Ruminants supplemented with tannin extracts in confined feeding operations have gained several reported benefits. Commercial industries are also expanding to extract and process tannin extracts. The beneficial effects of tannins depend on many factors, including plant species, plant part, tannin type (condensed tannins (CTs) or hydrolyzable tannins (HTs), and dose. Tannin binds with proteins, enhances the diversity and abundance of amino acids in the small intestine, and improves overall protein absorption and utilization. Compiled with other mechanisms, tannins can improve the quality, quantity, shelf life, and consumer preference of meat and milk products. Tannins also possess antimicrobial, anti-parasitic, antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory properties. CTs also impact rumen microbial populations, decreasing methane production, improving ruminal microbiota diversity, and lowering ammonia nitrogen production. Therefore, the use of tannin from tannin extracts and tanniferous forage plants presents a promising avenue for enhancing confined and free-grazing ruminant animals' health, productivity, and environmental sustainability.

The importance of application of medicinal plants and natural products in poultry health management

Application of herbs and natural medicines have shown to have no negative side effects, with high effectiveness to improve productivity. Usage of medicinal plants can increase gut function, improve hepatic function, inhibition of prooxidant enzymes, enhance antioxidant content, improve shelf life, enhance sensorial value, better nutritive value, improve both health and consumers preference, enhance calcium and other minerals, increase vitamin B and folate, and enhance immunity. The most important medicinal plants with antiparasitic activities are green tea, guar bean, pine bark, grape seed, barberry root bark, Rangoon creeper, olive tree, and wormwood. Some other important medicinal plants in poultry industry are black pepper, nettle, shrubby sophora, Aleppo oak, garlic, red cedar, ginger, mint, tobacco, turmeric, aloe vera, etc. The application of herbal medicines can be considered as an important alternative to treating parasitic infections. In organic broiler production with application of medicinal plants, decreasing hormones, growth promoters and antibiotics should be considered as well as paying more attention to selection of appropriate organic feed management with considering higher production. This article aims to survey on the importance of application of natural products and medicinal plants in poultry industry by considering secondary metabolites such as triterpenoids, coumarins, alkaloids, tannins, and flavonoids due to their anti-inflammatory, antiparasitic, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and astringent properties.

S-(+)-Carvone, a Monoterpene with Potential Anti-Neurodegenerative Activity-In Vitro, In Vivo and Ex Vivo Studies.

Carvone, a natural monoterpene, has been identified in various plants, giving them a characteristic scent. Enantiomers (R-(-) and S-(+)) reveal specific biological activities that are successfully used in traditional medicine for their antifungal, antibacterial, antiparasitic, and anti-influenza properties. The presented paper is based on S-(+)-carvone, characterized by a specific caraway scent, which revealed rich biological activities both in vitro and in vivo. Thus, the aim of the study was to evaluate the potential anti-neurodegenerative activity of S-(+)-carvone, including in vitro experiments (butyrylcholinesterase inhibitory, neuro- and hepatotoxicity as well as neuro- and hepatoprotective activity), in vivo (memory acquisition, locomotor activity), and ex vivo (determination of S-(+)-carvone's level in tissues collected from mice). Results revealed the multidirectional character of S-(+)-carvone. It has been shown that S-(+)-carvone is capable of butyrylcholinesterase inhibition (40% for 0.025 mg applied onto the plate), and neuroprotection and hepatoprotection at selective concentrations against reactive oxygen species generation and lipid peroxidation along with non-hepatotoxicity character. Additionally, multiple-dose administration of the monoterpene at a dose of 100 mg/kg had a positive influence on memory acquisition. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis of the plasma and the brain showed that S-(+)-carvone can cross the blood-brain barrier and accumulate in the hippocampus (0.217 µg/mg of tissue), a crucial part of the brain associated with cognition and mental functions.

Repurposing antiparasitic N,N'-aliphatic diamine derivatives as promising antimycobacterial agents.

In previous studies, we demonstrated the potent activity of a library of 25 N,N'-disubstituted diamines (NNDDA) toward Trypanosomatid and Apicomplexa parasites. Considering the structure similarity between this collection and SQ109, an antituberculosis compound, and its compelling antiparasitic properties, we aimed to repurpose this library for tuberculosis treatment. We assayed this collection against Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv and M. avium, obtaining several compounds with MIC values below 10 µM. The most active analogs were also evaluated against M. smegmatis, a non-pathogenic species, and the non-tuberculosis mycobacteria M. abscessus, M. kansasii, and M. fortuitum. 3c stands out as the lead mycobacterial compound of the collection, with potent activity against M. tuberculosis (minimal inhibitory concentration [MIC] = 3.4 µM) and moderate activity against M. smegmatis, M. kansasii, and M. fortuitum (all with MIC values of 26.8 µM). To unravel the mechanism of action, we employed the web-based platform Polypharmacology Browser 2 (PPB2), obtaining carbonic anhydrases as potential drug targets. Nevertheless, none of the compounds displayed experimental inhibition. In summary, our study confirms the validity of the repurposing approach and underscores the antimycobacterial potential of NNDDA compounds, especially the analog 3c, setting a stepping stone for further studies.

Papaya Seed Extract Combined Lauryl Glucoside Against Human Parasites Contaminated in Fresh Vegetables

Background: The prevalence of parasites in Thailand, primarily transmitted through contaminated vegetables, poses a significant public health concern. Ensuring the safety of natural produce from both parasites and chemical residues necessitates robust sanitation measures. Objective: This study aims to develop effective vegetable-washing solutions using papaya seed extract with potent anti-parasitic properties contamination in fresh vegetables. Methods: Fresh vegetables contaminated with Strongyloides stercoralis larvae, Ascaris lumbricoides, and Taenia spp. eggs were subjected to various treatments: distilled water, tap water, vinegar (5%), papaya seeds extract (200 mg/L), lauryl glucoside (1%) from coconut oil, papaya seeds extract combined with lauryl glucoside, and Albendazole as a standard drug. Immersion for 5 minutes was followed by parasite observation using the sedimentation method over 60 minutes, examining inhibitory effects on parasite larvae movement. Results: Papaya seed extract achieved the most rapid cessation within 10 minutes for larvae movement, followed by vinegar and papaya seed extract combined with lauryl glucoside. Furthermore, papaya seed extract combined with lauryl glucoside exhibited the highest efficacy in the sedimentation larval and parasite eggs, followed by lauryl glucoside solution and papaya seed extract, surpassing the control group. Conclusion: Papaya seeds extract immobilized larvae, while lauryl glucoside effectively eliminated parasite eggs from vegetables. Natural and organic compounds derived from papaya and coconut oil exhibit inherent diversification in their properties. These compounds originate from natural sources, showcasing distinct characteristics attributed to their organic nature. These results indicate the potential for developing natural extract-based products as future vegetable-washing solutions, emphasizing their significance against parasitic efficacy.

In vitro evaluation of ganaplacide/lumefantrine combination against Plasmodium falciparum in a context of artemisinin resistance.

Ganaplacide, also known as KAF156, is among the new antimalarial drug candidates that have successfully reached Phase III clinical trials, and is proposed in combination with lumefantrine. This combination could replace the current front-line artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs) in case of Plasmodium falciparum resistance to both artemisinins and partner drugs. Indeed, the African continent, where the malaria burden is the highest, is currently experiencing worrying multiple emergences and spread of artemisinin resistance, which urges for the exploration of the antiparasitic properties of KAF156 in this context. The objectives of this work were firstly to evaluate the risk of cross-resistance between artemisinins and KAF156 alone, and in combination with lumefantrine, using a panel of artemisinin-resistant strains carrying different pfk13 mutations and markers of other antiplasmodial drug resistances; secondly to explore in vitro the relevance of combining KAF156 and lumefantrine with artemisinins, based on the model of triple ACTs. Our results highlighted that KAF156 activity was not impaired by mutations in pfk13, pfcrt, pfmdr1, pfmdr2, pfdhps and pfdhfr genes or by pfmdr1 amplification. Moreover, we demonstrated that KAF156 alone and in combination with lumefantrine was active against artemisinin-resistant parasites, including when they are quiescent. All these in vitro results evidence that multi-drug resistant parasites currently in circulation in the field might not affect KAF156 efficacy, and are encouraging signs for KAF156 use in a triple ACT to preserve the use of artemisinins for as long as possible.

A New Immunogenic Structure of Polyepitopic Fusion against Leishmania major: In Silico Study.

The lack of complete protection against leishmaniasis and the challenges of anti-leishmaniasis drug treatment have made the treatment process more difficult. This study aimed to develop a new strategy for preparing a vaccine against cutaneous leishmaniasis using some of the antigenic proteins of the Leishmania parasite. This study was carried out in 2022 at Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran. After preparing suitable epitopes of the Leishmania parasite and examining their antiparasitic properties, the process of making a fusion vaccine was performed and with the help of various bioinformatics tools, physicochemical and structural properties as well as immunological and simulation properties were studied and finally optimized. Construction and cloning were performed in the E.coli K12 system and finally, the docking process was performed with Toll-like receptors (TLRs), major histocompatibility complex I (MHC-I), and MHC-II receptors. With the help of selected epitopes of the Leishmania parasite, which had a high percentage of population coverage, a stable, antigenic, and non-allergenic chimeric vaccine was predicted. The results of the structural analysis of the TLR5\vaccine complex and simulation of its molecular dynamics showed a sufficiently stable binding. It also showed good potential for stimulation and production of active B cells and memory, as well as the potential for CD8+ T, CD4+ T cell production and development of Th2 and Th1-induced immune responses. Computational results showed that the designed immunogenic structure has the potential to adequately stimulate cellular and humoral immune responses against Leishmania parasitic disease. As a result of evaluating the effectiveness of the candidate vaccine through in vivo and in vitro immunological tests, it can be suggested as a vaccine against Leishmania major.

A Review of Barleria prionitis L. a Rarely Known Plant with Potential of Phytochemical and Pharmacological Assets

Barleria Prionitis Linn., commonly referred to as "Vajradanti," is a thorny shrub native to Southern Asia and certain African regions. This herb has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, particularly Ayurveda, where it has been employed to address a wide array of health concerns including respiratory ailments, fever, liver disorders, and dermatological issues. A comprehensive review of scientific literature underscores the plant's rich phytochemical composition. It is a veritable treasure trove of bioactive compounds, such as tannins, saponins, flavonoids, glycosides, alkaloids, phenols, and specific compounds like β-sitosterol, lupeol, syringic acid, and vanillic acid. This chemical diversity is believed to underpin the herb's broad spectrum of pharmacological activities. Research has unveiled the potential of Barleria Prionitis in addressing a variety of health challenges. Studies have demonstrated its antimicrobial, antiparasitic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and hepatoprotective properties. Furthermore, the herb has shown promise in managing metabolic disorders like diabetes, as well as gastrointestinal issues. Its analgesic and antiarthritic effects have also garnered attention. Despite the compelling evidence supporting the therapeutic efficacy of Barleria Prionitis, its full potential remains largely untapped. Further research is imperative to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of action, optimize extraction processes, and develop standardized formulations. Moreover, clinical trials are necessary to validate the traditional claims and establish the herb's safety and efficacy in modern healthcare. By unlocking the secrets of Barleria Prionitis, researchers and healthcare providers can potentially develop innovative and sustainable therapeutic solutions for a range of diseases.

Phytochemical Composition and Bioactivities of Some Hydrophytes: Antioxidant, Antiparasitic, Antibacterial, and Anticancer Properties and Mechanisms.

Few researches have explored the production of pharmaceuticals from aquatic plants. Therefore, this study explored, for the first time, the phytochemical composition and bioactivities of ten aquatic plants. Aquatic plant shoots from various Nile River canals were collected, dried, and ground for aqueous extract preparation. Phytochemical composition and antioxidant capacity were assessed using DPPH assays. Extracts were tested for antiparasitic, antibacterial, anti-biofilm, and anticancer activities through standard in vitro assays, measuring IC50 values, and evaluating mechanisms of action, including cell viability and high-content screening assays. The results showed that the aquatic plants were rich in pharmaceutical compounds. The antioxidant capacity of these extracts exceeded that of vitamin C. The extracts showed promising antiparasitic activity against pathogens like Opisthorchis viverrini and Plasmodium falciparum, with IC50 values between 0.7 and 2.5 µg/mL. They also demonstrated low MICs against various pathogenic bacteria, causing DNA damage, increased plasma membrane permeability, and 90% biofilm inhibition. In terms of anticancer activity, extracts were effective against a panel of cancer cell lines, with Ludwigia stolonifera exhibiting the highest efficacy. Its IC50 ranged from 0.5 µg/mL for pancreatic, esophageal, and colon cancer cells to 1.5 µg/mL for gastric cancer cells. Overall, IC50 values for all extracts were below 6 µg/mL, showing significant apoptotic activity, increased nuclear intensity, plasma membrane permeability, mitochondrial membrane permeability, and cytochrome c release, and outperforming doxorubicin. This study highlights the potential of aquatic plants as sources for new, safe, and effective drugs with strong antiparasitic, antibacterial, and anticancer properties.

Enhancing the efficacy of fluconazole against Leishmania major: Formulation and evaluation of FLZ-nanoemulsions for topical delivery

BackgroundCutaneous Leishmaniasis (CL) remains a significant public health concern, particularly in the tropical and subtropical regions. Present treatment options for CL such as Fluconazole (FLZ) face limitations, including low solubility and bioavailability. This study aimed to address these challenges by investigating the use of nano-emulsions (NEs) to enhance the efficacy of FLZ against Leishmania major(L.major). Materials and methodsFLZ-NEs were formulated with oleic acid, Tween-20, and ethanol using low-energy emulsification at various surfactant/co-surfactant ratios. Subsequently, a comprehensive analysis was conducted to assess the physicochemical characteristics of the samples. This analysis encompassed stability, zeta potential, pH, viscosity, refractive index, and droplet size. We then studied the anti-parasitic properties of these optimized FLZ-NEs both in vitro and in vivo. ResultsThe selected nano-emulsion (NE) formulation (2 % oleic acid, 20 % Tween 20, 10 % ethyl alcohol) showcased desirable properties like small droplet size (10.51 ± 0.24 nm), low dispersity (0.19 ± 0.03), and zeta potential value (- 0.41 ± 0.17 mV), key for stability and targeted drug delivery. This optimal formulation translated into remarkable efficacy. In vitro, FLZ-NEs demonstrated a threefold increase in their ability to combat promastigotes and a remarkable thirtyfold increase in their ability to combat amastigotes. Additionally, they demonstrated a ninefold advantage in their ability to specifically target parasites within infected macrophages, thereby attacking the infection site. These promising in vitro results translated into improved outcomes in vivo. Compared to other chemicals studied, FLZ-NE-treated mice showed decreased disease severity, weight growth, and quicker ulcer healing. It was further supported by histopathological research, which showed reduced tissue damage linked to Leishmania infection. ConclusionThese findings show the potential of nanotechnology-based drug delivery in improving anti-leishmanial treatment.

Effect of feeding a blackseed meal-sericea lespedeza leaf meal pellet on gastrointestinal nematode and coccidia infection and animal performance in young goats

Gastrointestinal nematode (GIN) infection poses the most significant obstacle to the sustainable development of small ruminant (sheep and goat) farming globally. Resistance of GINs to synthetic anthelmintic drugs has led to rising interest in exploring alternative methods for parasite control, such as the utilization of bioactive plants with anti-parasitic properties. In this investigation, black seed (Nigella sativa), a shrub high in secondary antioxidant compounds, and sericea lespedeza (Lespedeza cuneata), a perennial legume high in tannins with anti-parasitic properties were combined to determine if two bioactive plants containing different types of secondary compounds can provide a stronger anti-parasitic effect than sericea lespedeza alone. In a 49-day trial, naturally parasitized 6–7-month-old intact male Spanish goats (n = 15/treatment) were fed pelletized feeds encompassing sericea lespedeza leaf meal (SL), a combination of black seed meal (BS) and sericea lespedeza leaf meal (BS-SL - 75 % SL, 25 % BS), or alfalfa (Medicago sativa, control parasitized; CONP), with an additional group of dewormed kids given the alfalfa pellets (Control treated; CONT). Weekly measurements of animal weights and samples of blood and feces were collected to determine the packed cell volume (PCV), GIN fecal egg counts (FEC), and coccidia fecal oocyte counts (FOC), respectively. All animals were processed at the end of the trial (60 total), with adult Haemonchus contortus worms recovered from the abomasum of each goat for counting and sex determination. Carcass weights were recorded after processing. Goats given the SL and BS-SL treatments had lower FEC (P<0.05) than the parasitized alfalfa (CONP) goats. At the end of the study, the SL and BS-SL groups' FOC values were lower (P < 0.05) than the CONT and CONP groups. A rise in PCV values was seen over time for all groups; SL, BS-SL, and CONT animals exhibited higher PCV values (P < 0.05) in comparison to the CONP goats. The parasitized goats fed SL-only pellets showed greater feed intake and animal body weights (P < 0.05) compared to goats fed BS-SL or alfalfa pellets. However, the treatments had no effect on the weight of the goats' carcasses. Although the H. contortus adult worm counts in the CONT goats (alfalfa-dewormed) were lower (P < 0.05) than in the CONP goats (alfalfa-parasitized), they did not differ from the SL or BS-SL animals. This study indicates that sericea lespedeza leaf meal pellet diet, either by itself or in combination with black seed meal, showed promising results as an anthelmintic and may prove to be an effective alternative to exclusive use of conventional deworming drugs. The addition of black seed did not appear to enhance the effectiveness of sericea lespedeza in this study.

Analisis GC-MS dari Senyawa Bioaktif Ekstrak Etanol Daun Tanaman Sirsak (Annona muricata L.) sebagai Obat Tradisional

Soursop leaves (Annona muricata L.), have long been recognized in various parts of the world, especially in tropical regions, as a plant with various health benefits and traditional uses. The rich history of its use has been intertwined in various cultures, where the leaves are used not only as a food ingredient, but also as a herbal medicine. The phytochemical content in soursop leaves, such as acetogenin, alkaloids, and flavonoids has been the subject of intensive research in the last decade, highlighting their potential in treating a variety of health conditions, from inflammation to anti-cancer potential. The chemical structure and biological activity of these compounds have attracted the attention of researchers, especially in the search for alternative therapies for difficult-to-treat diseases. Soursop leaf extract has antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiparasitic, and antitumor properties that offer new insights into its therapeutic potential. This research method uses the maceration method, where soursop leaves will be extracted using ethanol solvent and then the compounds contained in the extract will be analyzed using Gas-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). The results of GC-MS analysis show that soursop leaves contain the compounds 2,3-Dihydro-3,5-dihydroxy-6-methyl-4H-pyran-4-one, Trans-Caryophyllene, Hexadecanoic acid (CAS) Palmitic acid, 2-Hexadecen- 1-ol, 3,7,11,15-tetramethyl (Phytol), 9,12-Octadecadienoic acid (Z,Z) - (CAS) Linoleic acid, 9,12,15-Octadecadienoic acid methyl ester, Octadecanoic acid (CAS ) Stearic acid. The results of the analysis of compounds in soursop leaves can be a reference for further research to develop the potential of soursop fruit which leads to traditional medicine.

Exploring the potential therapeutic role of benzofuran derivatives in cancer treatment

Benzofuran serves as the primary active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) in a plethora of both naturally occurring and synthetic drugs known for their potent biological activities. The diverse array of biological effects demonstrated by benzofuran and its analogues encompasses anticancer, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, analgesic, anti-parasitic, anti-hyperglycemic, anti-hyperlipidemic, anti-convulsant, antipyretic, anti-tubercular, anti-Alzheimer, and antioxidant properties, among others. Given this extensive range of therapeutic potentials, benzofuran and its derivatives have garnered significant attention and are extensively utilized in pharmaceutical research and development. This review article focuses specifically on the anti-cancer properties of benzofuran and its derivatives, underscoring the pivotal role of benzofuran as a prominent and versatile scaffold for designing and developing novel therapeutic agents.

Evaluation of Nanonanoliposomal Curcumin on Cutaneous Leishmaniasis Skin Lesions Caused by Leishmania major in BALB/c Mice.

Curcumin is an extract of rhizome turmeric (diferuloylmethane), with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anti-parasitic properties, which making it a potential candidate for the treatment of leishmaniasis. The aim of the presented study was to evaluate curcumin as possible candidate for treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis. We investigated the physicochemical properties and anti-leishmanial effects of nanoliposomal curcumin (40, 80, and 120 μM) in Leishmania major (MRHO/IR/75/ER) infected BALB/c mice at the faculty of Veterinary Medicinem University of Tehran, Iran. For this aim, L. major promastigotes (MHROM/IR/75/ER) at stationary phase (2×106) were inoculated sub-cutaneously into the upper area of the tail in BALB/c mice (six groups, n= 10 per group). For evaluation of nanoliposomal curcumin, the zeta potential, particle size and stability of nanoliposomal curcumin was determined. Furthermore, the anti-leishmanial effects of nanoliposomal curcumin formulation on the lesion sizes was determined and the parasite burden in the leishmania induced lesion was performed using semi quantitative PCR. Treatment of L. major infected BALB/c mice with nanoliposomal curcumin led to a reduction in the kinetic of the skin lesion size development. The semi quantitative PCR analysis of DNA extracted from the lesions showed reduction of parasite burden. The most effective treatment could be found in 80 μM nanoliposomal curcumin. Treatment with Glucantime, as a positive control, also showed a nearly similar effect compared to the effect of 80 μM nanoliposomal curcumin. Nanoliposomal curcumin could be considered as a potential drug against cutaneous leishmaniasis caused by L. major in susceptible animal models.

Antiparasitic Evaluation of Aquiluscidin, a Cathelicidin Obtained from Crotalus aquilus, and the Vcn-23 Derivative Peptide against Babesia bovis, B. bigemina and B. ovata.

Babesiosis is a growing concern due to the increased prevalence of this infectious disease caused by Babesia protozoan parasites, affecting various animals and humans. With rising worries over medication side effects and emerging drug resistance, there is a notable shift towards researching babesiacidal agents. Antimicrobial peptides, specifically cathelicidins known for their broad-spectrum activity and immunomodulatory functions, have emerged as potential candidates. Aquiluscidin, a cathelicidin from Crotalus aquilus, and its derivative Vcn-23, have been of interest due to their previously observed antibacterial effects and non-hemolytic activity. This work aimed to characterize the effect of these peptides against three Babesia species. Results showed Aquiluscidin's significant antimicrobial effects on Babesia species, reducing the B. bigemina growth rate and exhibiting IC50 values of 14.48 and 20.70 μM against B. ovata and B. bovis, respectively. However, its efficacy was impacted by serum presence in culture, and it showed no inhibition against a B. bovis strain grown in serum-supplemented medium. Conversely, Vcn-23 did not demonstrate babesiacidal activity. In conclusion, Aquiluscidin shows antibabesia activity in vitro and its efficacy is affected by the presence of serum in the culture medium. Nevertheless, this peptide represents a candidate for further investigation of its antiparasitic properties and provides insights into potential alternatives for the treatment of babesiosis.