1
|
Shaukat A, Rajput SA, Ali M, Shukat R, Hanif S, Hassan M, Fouad D, Ataya FS, Shaukat I, Yousaf A, Shaukat S, Su RW. Therapeutic administration of Luteolin protects against Escherichia coli-derived Lipopolysaccharide-triggered inflammatory response and oxidative injury. Acta Trop 2024; 255:107236. [PMID: 38692450 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2024.107236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
Endometritis reduces reproductive effectiveness and leads to significant financial losses in the dairy sector. Luteolin is a natural phyto-flavonoid compound with many biological activities. However, the therapeutic effect of Luteolin against lipopolysaccharides (LPS)-induced endometritis has not yet been explored. A total of eighty female Kunming mice were randomly assigned into four treatment groups (n = 20). Following a successful initiation of the endometritis model by LPS, Luteolin was intraperitoneally administered three times, at six-hour intervals between each injection in the Luteolin groups. The histopathological findings revealed that Luteolin significantly alleviated uterine injury induced by LPS. Moreover, Luteolin suppressed the synthesis of pro-inflammatory mediators [interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α] while promoting the synthesis of an anti-inflammatory mediator (IL-10) altered by LPS. Furthermore, Luteolin significantly mitigated the LPS-induced oxidative stress by scavenging malondialdehyde (MDA) and reactive oxygen species (ROS), accumulation and boosting the capacity of antioxidant enzyme activities such as superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase 1 (Gpx1) in the uterine tissue of mice. Additionally, injection of Luteolin markedly increased the expression of Toll-like receptors (TLR) 4 both at mRNA and protein levels under LPS stimulation. Western blotting and ELISA findings demonstrated that Luteolin suppressed the activation of the NF-κB pathway in response to LPS exposure in the uterine tissue of mice. Notably, Luteolin enhanced the anti-oxidant defense system by activating the Nrf2 signaling pathway under LPS exposure in the uterine tissue of mice. Conclusively, our findings demonstrated that Luteolin effectively alleviated LPS-induced endometritis via modulation of TLR4-associated Nrf2 and NF-κB signaling pathways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aftab Shaukat
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China; College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Shahid Ali Rajput
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Muhammad Nawaz Shareef University of Agriculture, Multan, Pakistan
| | - Mehboob Ali
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Rizwan Shukat
- Faculty of Food, Nutrition & Home Sciences, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Sana Hanif
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Theory and Application of Advanced Materials Mechanics, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Mubashar Hassan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Dalia Fouad
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, PO Box 22452, Riyadh 11495, Saudi Arabia
| | - Farid S Ataya
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Science, King Saud University, PO Box 2455, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Irfan Shaukat
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Narowal, Narowal, Pakistan
| | - Arfan Yousaf
- Faculty of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, PMAS-Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | - Shadab Shaukat
- Faculty of Agriculture, Lasbela University of Agriculture, Water and Marine Sciences, Uthal, Balochistan, Pakistan
| | - Ren-Wei Su
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kamal M, Mukherjee S, Joshi B, Sindhu ZUD, Wangchuk P, Haider S, Ahmed N, Talukder MH, Geary TG, Yadav AK. Model nematodes as a practical innovation to promote high throughput screening of natural products for anthelmintics discovery in South Asia: Current challenges, proposed practical and conceptual solutions. Mol Biochem Parasitol 2023; 256:111594. [PMID: 37730126 DOI: 10.1016/j.molbiopara.2023.111594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
With the increasing prevalence of anthelmintic resistance in animals recorded globally, and the threat of resistance in human helminths, the need for novel anthelmintic drugs is greater than ever. Most research aimed at discovering novel anthelmintic leads relies on high throughput screening (HTS) of large libraries of synthetic small molecules in industrial and academic settings in developed countries, even though it is the tropical countries that are most plagued by helminth infections. Tropical countries, however, have the advantage of possessing a rich flora that may yield natural products (NP) with promising anthelmintic activity. Focusing on South Asia, which produces one of the world's highest research outputs in NP and NP-based anthelmintic discovery, we find that limited basic research and funding, a lack of awareness of the utility of model organisms, poor industry-academia partnerships and lack of technological innovations greatly limit anthelmintics research in the region. Here we propose that utilizing model organisms including the free-living nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, that can potentially allow rapid target identification of novel anthelmintics, and Oscheius tipulae, a closely related, free-living nematode which is found abundantly in soil in hotter temperatures, could be a much-needed innovation that can enable cost-effective and efficient HTS of NPs for discovering compounds with anthelmintic/antiparasitic potential in South Asia and other tropical regions that historically have devoted limited funding for such research. Additionally, increased collaborations at the national, regional and international level between parasitologists and pharmacologists/ethnobotanists, setting up government-industry-academia partnerships to fund academic research, creating a centralized, regional collection of plant extracts or purified NPs as a dereplication strategy and HTS library, and holding regional C. elegans/O. tipulae-based anthelmintics workshops and conferences to share knowledge and resources regarding model organisms may collectively promote and foster a NP-based anthelmintics landscape in South Asia and beyond.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Muntasir Kamal
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
| | - Suprabhat Mukherjee
- Department of Animal Science, Kazi Nazrul University, Asansol 713340, West Bengal, India
| | - Bishnu Joshi
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Zia-Ud-Din Sindhu
- Department of Parasitology, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Phurpa Wangchuk
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns Campus, QLD 4878, Australia
| | | | - Nurnabi Ahmed
- Department of Parasitology, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, Bangladesh
| | | | - Timothy G Geary
- Institute of Parasitology, McGill University, Montreal, Canada; School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University-Belfast, Belfast, NI, UK
| | - Arun K Yadav
- Department of Zoology, North-Eastern Hill University, Shillong 793022, India
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Salim AA, Butler MS, Blaskovich MAT, Henderson IR, Capon RJ. Natural products as anthelmintics: safeguarding animal health. Nat Prod Rep 2023; 40:1754-1808. [PMID: 37555325 DOI: 10.1039/d3np00019b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/10/2023]
Abstract
Covering literature to December 2022This review provides a comprehensive account of all natural products (500 compounds, including 17 semi-synthetic derivatives) described in the primary literature up to December 2022, reported to be capable of inhibiting the egg hatching, motility, larval development and/or the survival of helminths (i.e., nematodes, flukes and tapeworms). These parasitic worms infect and compromise the health and welfare, productivity and lives of commercial livestock (i.e., sheep, cattle, horses, pigs, poultry and fish), companion animals (i.e., dogs and cats) and other high value, endangered and/or exotic animals. Attention is given to chemical structures, as well as source organisms and anthelmintic properties, including the nature of bioassay target species, in vivo animal hosts, and measures of potency.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Angela A Salim
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia, 4072.
| | - Mark S Butler
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia, 4072.
| | - Mark A T Blaskovich
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia, 4072.
| | - Ian R Henderson
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia, 4072.
| | - Robert J Capon
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia, 4072.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Yu J, Han Y, Xu H, Han S, Li X, Niu Y, Chen S, Zhang F. Structural divergence and phylogenetic relationships of Ajania (Asteraceae) from plastomes and ETS. BMC Genomics 2023; 24:602. [PMID: 37817095 PMCID: PMC10566131 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-023-09716-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ajania Poljakov, an Asteraceae family member, grows mostly in Asia's arid and semi-desert areas and is a significant commercial and decorative plant. Nevertheless, the genus' classification has been disputed, and the evolutionary connections within the genus have not been thoroughly defined. Hence, we sequenced and analyzed Ajania's plastid genomes and combined them with ETS data to assess their phylogenetic relationships. RESULTS We obtained a total of six new Ajania plastid genomes and nine ETS sequences. The whole plastome lengths of the six species sampled ranged from 151,002 bp to 151,115 bp, showing conserved structures. Combined with publicly available data from GenBank, we constructed six datasets to reconstruct the phylogenetic relationships, detecting nucleoplasmic clashes. Our results reveal the affinities of Artemisia, Chrysanthemum and Stilpnolepis to Ajania and validate the early taxonomy reclassification. Some of the plastid genes with low phylogenetic information and gene trees with topological differences may have contributed to the ambiguous phylogenetic results of Ajania. There is extensive evolutionary rate heterogeneity in plastid genes. The psbH and ycf2 genes, which are involved in photosynthesis and ATP transport, are under selective pressure. Plastomes from Ajania species diverged, and structural aspects of plastomes may indicate some of the real evolutionary connections. We suggest the ycf1 gene as a viable plastid DNA barcode because it has significant nucleotide diversity and better reflects evolutionary connections. CONCLUSION Our findings validate the early Ajania taxonomy reclassification and show evolutionary rate heterogeneity, genetic variety, and phylogenetic heterogeneity of plastid genes. This research might provide new insights into the taxonomy and evolution of Ajania, as well as provide useful information for germplasm innovation and genetic enhancement in horticultural species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jingya Yu
- Key Laboratory of Adaptation and Evolution of Plateau Biota, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology & Institute of Sanjiangyuan National Park, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, 810008, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Yun Han
- Key Laboratory of Adaptation and Evolution of Plateau Biota, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology & Institute of Sanjiangyuan National Park, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, 810008, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Hao Xu
- Key Laboratory of Adaptation and Evolution of Plateau Biota, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology & Institute of Sanjiangyuan National Park, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, 810008, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Shuang Han
- Key Laboratory of Adaptation and Evolution of Plateau Biota, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology & Institute of Sanjiangyuan National Park, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, 810008, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Xiaoping Li
- Key Laboratory of Adaptation and Evolution of Plateau Biota, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology & Institute of Sanjiangyuan National Park, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, 810008, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Yu Niu
- Key Laboratory of Adaptation and Evolution of Plateau Biota, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology & Institute of Sanjiangyuan National Park, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, 810008, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Shilong Chen
- Key Laboratory of Adaptation and Evolution of Plateau Biota, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology & Institute of Sanjiangyuan National Park, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, 810008, China
| | - Faqi Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Adaptation and Evolution of Plateau Biota, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology & Institute of Sanjiangyuan National Park, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, 810008, China.
- Qinghai Provincial Key Laboratory of Crop Molecular Breeding, Xining, 810008, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Hubbard IC, Thompson JS, Else KJ, Shears RK. Another decade of Trichuris muris research: An update and application of key discoveries. Adv Parasitol 2023; 121:1-63. [PMID: 37474238 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apar.2023.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
The mouse whipworm, Trichuris muris, has been used for over 60 years as a tractable model for human trichuriasis, caused by the related whipworm species, T. trichiura. The history of T. muris research, from the discovery of the parasite in 1761 to understanding the lifecycle and outcome of infection with different doses (high versus low dose infection), as well as the immune mechanisms associated with parasite expulsion and chronic infection have been detailed in an earlier review published in 2013. Here, we review recent advances in our understanding of whipworm biology, host-parasite interactions and basic immunology brought about using the T. muris mouse model, focussing on developments from the last decade. In addition to the traditional high/low dose infection models that have formed the mainstay of T. muris research to date, novel models involving trickle (repeated low dose) infection in laboratory mice or infection in wild or semi-wild mice have led to important insights into how immunity develops in situ in a multivariate environment, while the use of novel techniques such as the development of caecal organoids (enabling the study of larval development ex vivo) promise to deliver important insights into host-parasite interactions. In addition, the genome and transcriptome analyses of T. muris and T. trichiura have proven to be invaluable tools, particularly in the context of vaccine development and identification of secreted products including proteins, extracellular vesicles and micro-RNAs, shedding further light on how these parasites communicate with their host and modulate the immune response to promote their own survival.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Isabella C Hubbard
- Centre for Bioscience, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom; Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Jacob S Thompson
- Lydia Becker Institute for Immunology and Inflammation, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Kathryn J Else
- Lydia Becker Institute for Immunology and Inflammation, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca K Shears
- Centre for Bioscience, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom; Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Jato J, Orman E, Duah Boakye Y, Oppong Bekoe E, Oppong Bekoe S, Asare-Nkansah S, Spiegler V, Hensel A, Liebau E, Agyare C. Anthelmintic Agents from African Medicinal Plants: Review and Prospects. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med 2022; 2022:8023866. [PMID: 36624864 DOI: 10.1155/2022/8023866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 11/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Soil-transmitted helminthiasis affects more than 1.5 billion people globally and largely remains a sanitary problem in Africa. These infections place a huge economic burden on poor countries and affect livestock production, causing substantial economic losses and poor animal health. The emergence of anthelmintic resistance, especially in livestock, and the potential for its widespread in humans create a need for the development of alternative therapies. Medicinal plants play a significant role in the management of parasitic diseases in humans and livestock, especially in Africa. This report reviews anthelmintic studies that have been conducted on medicinal plants growing in Africa and published within the past two decades. A search was made in various electronic databases, and only full articles in English were included in the review. Reports show that aqueous and hydroalcoholic extracts and polar fractions obtained from these crude extracts form the predominant (80%) form of the extracts studied. Medicinal plants, extracts, and compounds with different chemical groups have been studied for their anthelmintic potential. Polyphenols and terpenoids are the most reported groups. More than 64% of the studies employed in vitro assays against parasitic and nonparasitic nematode models. Egg hatch inhibition, larval migration inhibition, and paralysis are the common parameters assessed in vitro. About 72% of in vivo models involved small ruminants, 15% rodents, and 5% chicken. Egg and worm burden are the main factors assessed in vivo. There were no reports on interventions in humans cited within the period under consideration. Also, few reports have investigated the potential of combining plant extracts with common anthelmintic drugs. This review reveals the huge potential of African medicinal plants as sources of anthelmintic agents and the dire need for in-depth clinical studies of extracts, fractions, and compounds from African plants as anthelmintic agents in livestock, companion animals, and humans.
Collapse
|
7
|
Han C, Zhou S, Mei Y, Cao Q, Shi K, Shao H. Phytotoxic, insecticidal, and antimicrobial activities of Ajania tibetica essential oil. Front Plant Sci 2022; 13:1028252. [PMID: 36466289 PMCID: PMC9716211 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2022.1028252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
The chemical profile of Ajania tibetica essential oil (EO) and its phytotoxic, insecticidal, and antimicrobial activities were assessed. Monoterpenes (79.05%) and sesquiterpenes (10.33%) were dominant in the EO, with camphor, (+/-)-lavandulol and eucalyptol being the major constituents, representing 55.06% of the total EO. The EO possessed potent phytotoxicity against Poa annua and Medicago sativa starting from 0.5 mg/mL, and when the concentration rose to 5 mg/mL, seed germination of both tested species was 100% suppressed. Ajania tibetica EO displayed significant pesticidal activity against Aphis gossypii with an LC50 value of 17.41 μg/mL; meanwhile, the EO also showed antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, Verticillium dahlia and Aspergillus niger using broth microdilution and disc diffusion methods. For the tested bacterial and fungal strains, the EO exhibited a repressing effect, with minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) ranging from 0.3125 to 1.25 mg/mL for bacteria and from 1.25 to 2.5 mg/mL for fungi, whereas the minimum microbicidal concentrations (MMCs) were 5 mg/mL for bacteria and 2.5 mg/mL for fungi. Our study is the first report on the chemical profile as well as the phytotoxicity, insecticidal and antimicrobic activity of A. tibetica EO, indicating its potential value as an alternative synthetic pesticide.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caixia Han
- State Key Laboratory of Desert and Oasis Ecology, Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Urumqi, China
| | - Shixing Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Desert and Oasis Ecology, Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Urumqi, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yu Mei
- State Key Laboratory of Desert and Oasis Ecology, Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Urumqi, China
| | - Qiumei Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Desert and Oasis Ecology, Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Urumqi, China
| | - Kai Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Desert and Oasis Ecology, Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Urumqi, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Hua Shao
- State Key Laboratory of Desert and Oasis Ecology, Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Urumqi, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Research Center for Ecology and Environment of Central Asia, Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Urumqi, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Yoo WG, Dai F, Pak JH, Hong S, Song J. Structure-based virtual screening and molecular dynamics of potential inhibitors targeting sodium-bile acid co-transporter of carcinogenic liver fluke Clonorchis sinensis. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2022; 16:e0010909. [DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background
Clonorchis sinensis requires bile acid transporters as this fluke inhabits bile juice-filled biliary ducts, which provide an extreme environment. Clonorchis sinensis sodium-bile acid co-transporter (CsSBAT) is indispensable for the fluke’s survival in the final host, as it circulates taurocholate and prevents bile toxicity in the fluke; hence, it is recognized as a useful drug target.
Methodology and principal findings
In the present study, using structure-based virtual screening approach, we presented inhibitor candidates targeting a bile acid-binding pocket of CsSBAT. CsSBAT models were built using tertiary structure modeling based on a bile acid transporter template (PDB ID: 3zuy and 4n7x) and were applied into AutoDock Vina for competitive docking simulation. First, potential compounds were identified from PubChem (holding more than 100,000 compounds) by applying three criteria: i) interacting more favorably with CsSBAT than with a human homolog, ii) intimate interaction to the inward- and outward-facing conformational states, iii) binding with CsSBAT preferably to natural bile acids. Second, two compounds were identified following the Lipinski’s rule of five. Third, other two compounds of molecular weight higher than 500 Da (Mr > 500 Da) were presumed to efficiently block the transporter via a feasible rational screening strategy. Of these candidates, compound 9806452 exhibited the least hepatotoxicity that may enhance drug-likeness properties.
Conclusions
It is proposed that compound 9806452 act as a potential inhibitor toward CsSBAT and further studies are warranted for drug development process against clonorchiasis.
Collapse
|
9
|
Poulopoulou I, Horgan MJ, Siewert B, Siller M, Palmieri L, Martinidou E, Martens S, Fusani P, Temml V, Stuppner H, Gauly M. In vitro evaluation of the effects of methanolic plant extracts on the embryonation rate of Ascaridia galli eggs. Vet Res Commun 2022; 47:409-419. [PMID: 35727416 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-022-09958-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The present study aims to find efficient alternatives to synthetic anthelmintics among ethno-veterinary herbs. Ascaridia galli eggs isolated from the worm uterus were exposed in vitro to methanolic extracts (ME) of nine plant species such as Achillea millefolium (AM), Artemisia absinthium (AA), Artemisia vulgaris (AV), Cicerbita alpina (CA), Cichorium intybus (CI), Inula helenium (IH), Origanum vulgare (OV), Tanacetum vulgare (TV), Tanacetum parthenium (TP). Flubendazole (FL), 0.5% formalin with dimethylsulfoxide and Petri dishes without the addition of reagents were used as positive, negative and untreated control respectively. The effects of the different ME at concentrations 0.500, 0.325, 0.200 mg/ml were assessed on the embryonic development (ED) of the eggs in duplicate. Logit analysis was used to calculate EC50 values. A generalized linear mixed model, having plant species and concentration as fixed effect and day as repeated measure, was used to determine differences in ED. Estimated EC50 was the lowest for FL at 0.11 mg/ml. CA and TV followed with 0.27 mg/ml and 0.32 mg/ml. ED for FL was significantly lower (25%) than that of CA (47%). The analysis showed 0.5 mg/ml of the ME of CA and TV significantly affected the ED at 35% and 42% inhibitions respectively. The ED for all ME showed similar pattern i.e., relatively higher efficacy in the first experimental week compared to the rest of the experimental period. The effect from all multicomponent extracts is time and dose dependent. The plants have promising results in inhibiting ED, contributing to the identification of alternative anthelmintic treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ioanna Poulopoulou
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Free University of Bolzano, Piazza Università 5, 39100, Bolzano, Italy. .,Faculty of Science and Technology, Free University of Bozen - Bolzano, Universitätsplatz 5, 39100, Bolzano, Italy.
| | - Mark James Horgan
- Institute of Pharmacy/Pharmacognosy, Center for Chemistry and Biomedicine, University of Innsbruck, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Bianka Siewert
- Institute of Pharmacy/Pharmacognosy, Center for Chemistry and Biomedicine, University of Innsbruck, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Michaela Siller
- Research and Innovation Center, Edmund Mach Foundation, Via E. Mach 1 38010 - San Michele all'Adige, Trento, Italy
| | - Luisa Palmieri
- Research and Innovation Center, Edmund Mach Foundation, Via E. Mach 1 38010 - San Michele all'Adige, Trento, Italy
| | - Eftychia Martinidou
- Research and Innovation Center, Edmund Mach Foundation, Via E. Mach 1 38010 - San Michele all'Adige, Trento, Italy
| | - Stefan Martens
- Research and Innovation Center, Edmund Mach Foundation, Via E. Mach 1 38010 - San Michele all'Adige, Trento, Italy
| | - Pietro Fusani
- Consiglio Per La Ricerca in Agricoltura E L'analisi Dell'economia Agraria, Centro Di Ricerca Foreste E Legno, piazza Nicolini 6 loc. Villazzano, 38123, Trento, Italy
| | - Veronika Temml
- Institute of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Strubergasse 21, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Hermann Stuppner
- Institute of Pharmacy/Pharmacognosy, Center for Chemistry and Biomedicine, University of Innsbruck, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Matthias Gauly
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Free University of Bolzano, Piazza Università 5, 39100, Bolzano, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Luo L, Yang J, Wang C, Wu J, Li Y, Zhang X, Li H, Zhang H, Zhou Y, Lu A, Chen S. Natural products for infectious microbes and diseases: an overview of sources, compounds, and chemical diversities. Sci China Life Sci 2022; 65:1123-1145. [PMID: 34705221 PMCID: PMC8548270 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-020-1959-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
As coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) threatens human health globally, infectious disorders have become one of the most challenging problem for the medical community. Natural products (NP) have been a prolific source of antimicrobial agents with widely divergent structures and a range vast biological activities. A dataset comprising 618 articles, including 646 NP-based compounds from 672 species of natural sources with biological activities against 21 infectious pathogens from five categories, was assembled through manual selection of published articles. These data were used to identify 268 NP-based compounds classified into ten groups, which were used for network pharmacology analysis to capture the most promising lead-compounds such as agelasine D, dicumarol, dihydroartemisinin and pyridomycin. The distribution of maximum Tanimoto scores indicated that compounds which inhibited parasites exhibited low diversity, whereas the chemistries inhibiting bacteria, fungi, and viruses showed more structural diversity. A total of 331 species of medicinal plants with compounds exhibiting antimicrobial activities were selected to classify the family sources. The family Asteraceae possesses various compounds against C. neoformans, the family Anacardiaceae has compounds against Salmonella typhi, the family Cucurbitacea against the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and the family Ancistrocladaceae against Plasmodium. This review summarizes currently available data on NP-based antimicrobials against refractory infections to provide information for further discovery of drugs and synthetic strategies for anti-infectious agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lu Luo
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Jun Yang
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Cheng Wang
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100006, China
| | - Jie Wu
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Yafang Li
- Institute of Hematology & Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, 300020, China
| | - Xu Zhang
- weMED Health, Houston, 77054, USA
| | - Hui Li
- Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100093, China
| | - Hui Zhang
- Akupunktur Akademiet, Aabyhoej, Aarhus, 8230, Denmark
| | - Yumei Zhou
- The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 518033, China
| | - Aiping Lu
- School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Shilin Chen
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Adegboye O, Field MA, Kupz A, Pai S, Sharma D, Smout MJ, Wangchuk P, Wong Y, Loiseau C. Natural-Product-Based Solutions for Tropical Infectious Diseases. Clin Microbiol Rev 2021;:e0034820. [PMID: 34494873 DOI: 10.1128/CMR.00348-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
About half of the world's population and 80% of the world's biodiversity can be found in the tropics. Many diseases are specific to the tropics, with at least 41 diseases caused by endemic bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi. Such diseases are of increasing concern, as the geographic range of tropical diseases is expanding due to climate change, urbanization, change in agricultural practices, deforestation, and loss of biodiversity. While traditional medicines have been used for centuries in the treatment of tropical diseases, the active natural compounds within these medicines remain largely unknown. In this review, we describe infectious diseases specific to the tropics, including their causative pathogens, modes of transmission, recent major outbreaks, and geographic locations. We further review current treatments for these tropical diseases, carefully consider the biodiscovery potential of the tropical biome, and discuss a range of technologies being used for drug development from natural resources. We provide a list of natural products with antimicrobial activity, detailing the source organisms and their effectiveness as treatment. We discuss how technological advancements, such as next-generation sequencing, are driving high-throughput natural product screening pipelines to identify compounds with therapeutic properties. This review demonstrates the impact natural products from the vast tropical biome have in the treatment of tropical infectious diseases and how high-throughput technical capacity will accelerate this discovery process.
Collapse
|
12
|
O'Sullivan JDB, Cruickshank SM, Withers PJ, Else KJ. Morphological variability in the mucosal attachment site of Trichuris muris revealed by X-ray microcomputed tomography. Int J Parasitol 2021; 51:797-807. [PMID: 34216623 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2021.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Parasitic infections can be challenging to study because two dimensional light and electron microscopy are often limited in visualising complex and inaccessible attachment sites. Exemplifying this, Trichuris spp. inhabit a tunnel of epithelial cells within the host caecum and colon. A significant global burden of this infection persists, partly because available anthelminthics lack efficacy, although the mechanisms underlying this remain unknown. Consequently, there is a need to pioneer new approaches to better characterize the parasite niche within the host and investigate how variation in its morphology and integrity may contribute to resistance to therapeutic intervention. To address these aims, we exploited three-dimensional X-ray micro-computed tomography (microCT) to image the mouse whipworm, Trichuris muris, in caeca of wild-type C57BL/6 and SCID mice ex vivo. Using osmium tetroxide staining to effectively enhance the contrast of worms, we found that a subset exhibited preferential positioning towards the bases of the intestinal crypts. Moreover, in one rare event, we demonstrated whipworm traversal of the lamina propria. This morphological variability contradicts widely accepted conclusions from conventional microscopy of the parasite niche, showing Trichuris in close contact with the host proliferative and immune compartments that may facilitate immunomodulation. Furthermore, by using a skeletonization-based approach we demonstrate considerable variation in tunnel length and integrity. The qualitative and quantitative observations provide a new morphological point of reference for future in vitro study of host-Trichuris interactions, and highlight the potential of microCT to characterise enigmatic host-parasite interactions more accurately.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- James D B O'Sullivan
- Henry Royce Institute, Department of Materials, The University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, United Kingdom; Lydia Becker Institute for Immunology and Inflammation, The University of Manchester, Oxford Road, M13 9PT, United Kingdom
| | - Sheena M Cruickshank
- Lydia Becker Institute for Immunology and Inflammation, The University of Manchester, Oxford Road, M13 9PT, United Kingdom
| | - Philip J Withers
- Henry Royce Institute, Department of Materials, The University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, United Kingdom
| | - Kathryn J Else
- Lydia Becker Institute for Immunology and Inflammation, The University of Manchester, Oxford Road, M13 9PT, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Moreira-Filho JT, Silva AC, Dantas RF, Gomes BF, Souza Neto LR, Brandao-Neto J, Owens RJ, Furnham N, Neves BJ, Silva-Junior FP, Andrade CH. Schistosomiasis Drug Discovery in the Era of Automation and Artificial Intelligence. Front Immunol 2021; 12:642383. [PMID: 34135888 PMCID: PMC8203334 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.642383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease caused by trematode worms of the genus Schistosoma and affects over 200 million people worldwide. The control and treatment of this neglected tropical disease is based on a single drug, praziquantel, which raises concerns about the development of drug resistance. This, and the lack of efficacy of praziquantel against juvenile worms, highlights the urgency for new antischistosomal therapies. In this review we focus on innovative approaches to the identification of antischistosomal drug candidates, including the use of automated assays, fragment-based screening, computer-aided and artificial intelligence-based computational methods. We highlight the current developments that may contribute to optimizing research outputs and lead to more effective drugs for this highly prevalent disease, in a more cost-effective drug discovery endeavor.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- José T. Moreira-Filho
- LabMol – Laboratory for Molecular Modeling and Drug Design, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Goiás – UFG, Goiânia, Brazil
| | - Arthur C. Silva
- LabMol – Laboratory for Molecular Modeling and Drug Design, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Goiás – UFG, Goiânia, Brazil
| | - Rafael F. Dantas
- LaBECFar – Laboratório de Bioquímica Experimental e Computacional de Fármacos, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Barbara F. Gomes
- LaBECFar – Laboratório de Bioquímica Experimental e Computacional de Fármacos, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Lauro R. Souza Neto
- LaBECFar – Laboratório de Bioquímica Experimental e Computacional de Fármacos, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Jose Brandao-Neto
- Diamond Light Source Ltd., Didcot, United Kingdom
- Research Complex at Harwell, Didcot, United Kingdom
| | - Raymond J. Owens
- The Rosalind Franklin Institute, Harwell, United Kingdom
- Division of Structural Biology, The Wellcome Centre for Human Genetic, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Nicholas Furnham
- Department of Infection Biology, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Bruno J. Neves
- LabMol – Laboratory for Molecular Modeling and Drug Design, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Goiás – UFG, Goiânia, Brazil
| | - Floriano P. Silva-Junior
- LaBECFar – Laboratório de Bioquímica Experimental e Computacional de Fármacos, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Carolina H. Andrade
- LabMol – Laboratory for Molecular Modeling and Drug Design, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Goiás – UFG, Goiânia, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Mair I, Else KJ, Forman R. Trichuris muris as a tool for holistic discovery research: from translational research to environmental bio-tagging. Parasitology 2021; 148:1-13. [PMID: 33952360 PMCID: PMC8660646 DOI: 10.1017/s003118202100069x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Trichuris spp. (whipworms) are intestinal nematode parasites which cause chronic infections associated with significant morbidities. Trichuris muris in a mouse is the most well studied of the whipworms and research on this species has been approached from a number of different disciplines. Research on T. muris in a laboratory mouse has provided vital insights into the host–parasite interaction through analyses of the immune responses to infection, identifying factors underpinning host susceptibility and resistance. Laboratory studies have also informed strategies for disease control through anthelmintics and vaccine research. On the contrary, research on naturally occurring infections with Trichuris spp. allows the analysis of the host–parasite co-evolutionary relationships and parasite genetic diversity. Furthermore, ecological studies utilizing Trichuris have aided our knowledge of the intricate relationships amongst parasite, host and environment. More recently, studies in wild and semi-wild settings have combined the strengths of the model organism of the house mouse with the complexities of context-dependent physiological responses to infection. This review celebrates the extraordinarily broad range of beneficiaries of whipworm research, from immunologists and parasitologists, through epidemiologists, ecologists and evolutionary biologists to the veterinary and medical communities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iris Mair
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, The University of Manchester, Oxford Road, ManchesterM13 9PT, UK
| | - Kathryn J. Else
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, The University of Manchester, Oxford Road, ManchesterM13 9PT, UK
| | - Ruth Forman
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, The University of Manchester, Oxford Road, ManchesterM13 9PT, UK
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Mordvinov VA, Ponomarev DV, Pakharukov YV, Pakharukova MY. Anthelmintic Activity of Antioxidants: In Vitro Effects on the Liver Fluke Opisthorchis felineus. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10030284. [PMID: 33801420 PMCID: PMC8001094 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10030284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Currently, molecular parasitologists are searching for new agents against trematodiases. Redox metabolism is important for parasites as far as long-lived adult parasites inside a mammalian host are exposed to redox challenges. Antioxidants have been poorly studied as anthelmintic agents, in particular against the foodborne trematodes. Study of in vitro anthelmintic activity of nonenzymatic natural and synthetic antioxidants of various chemical structures was performed using standard motility and mortality assays against juvenile and adult Opisthorchis felineus worms. Promising agents have been found among both natural and synthetic compounds. The mitochondria-targeted antioxidant SkQ1 [10-(6′-plastoquinonyl)decyltriphenylphosphonium] in motility assays was as effective (half-maximal inhibitory concentration [IC50] 0.6–1.4 μM) as praziquantel (IC50 0.47–1.4 μM), and SkQ1 was significantly more effective than praziquantel in mortality assays. Moreover, extensive tegument damage of the adult fluke was revealed after SkQ1 treatment. Flavonoids manifested potency too, with IC50 values in a micromolar range (5.1–17.4 μM). Other natural and synthetic compounds tested against helminths were significantly less effective than praziquantel. Results of our study indicate that SkQ1 and flavonoids have high anthelmintic activities against the liver flukes. We propose that structure–activity relationship research might be worthwhile based on the structures of the most effective substances.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Viatcheslav A. Mordvinov
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Science, 10 Lavrentiev Ave., 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (V.A.M.); (D.V.P.)
| | - Denis V. Ponomarev
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Science, 10 Lavrentiev Ave., 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (V.A.M.); (D.V.P.)
| | - Yuri V. Pakharukov
- Department of Physics, Monitoring and Diagnostic Methods, Industrial University of Tyumen, 38 Volodarskogo Str., 625000 Tyumen, Russia;
| | - Maria Y. Pakharukova
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Science, 10 Lavrentiev Ave., 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (V.A.M.); (D.V.P.)
- Department of Natural Sciences, Novosibirsk State University, 2 Pirogov Str., 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +7-913-394-6669
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Tedla BA, Pickering D, Becker L, Loukas A, Pearson MS. Vaccination with Schistosoma mansoni Cholinesterases Reduces the Parasite Burden and Egg Viability in a Mouse Model of Schistosomiasis. Vaccines (Basel) 2020; 8:E162. [PMID: 32260125 PMCID: PMC7349746 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines8020162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Revised: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease caused by parasitic blood flukes of the genus Schistosoma, which kills 300,000 people every year in developing countries, and there is no vaccine. Recently, we have shown that cholinesterases (ChEs)-enzymes that regulate neurotransmission-from Schistosoma mansoni are expressed on the outer tegument surface and present in the excretory/secretory products of larval schistosomula and adult worms, and are essential for parasite survival in the definitive host, highlighting their utility as potential schistosomiasis vaccine targets. When treated in vitro with anti-schistosome cholinesterase (SmChE) IgG, both schistosomula and adult worms displayed significantly decreased ChE activity, which eventually resulted in parasite death. Vaccination with individual SmChEs, or a combination of all three SmChEs, significantly reduced worm burdens in two independent trials compared to controls. Average adult worm numbers and liver egg burdens were significantly decreased for all vaccinated mice across both trials, with values of 29-39% and 13-46%, respectively, except for those vaccinated with SmAChE1 in trial 1. Egg viability, as determined by egg hatching from liver homogenates, was significantly reduced in the groups vaccinated with the SmChE cocktail (40%) and SmAChE2 (46%). Furthermore, surviving worms from each vaccinated group were significantly stunted and depleted of glycogen stores, compared to controls. These results suggest that SmChEs could be incorporated into a vaccine against schistosomiasis to reduce the pathology and transmission of this debilitating disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Mark S. Pearson
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD 4878, Australia; (B.A.T.); (D.P.); (L.B.); (A.L.)
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Sepúlveda-Crespo D, Reguera RM, Rojo-Vázquez F, Balaña-Fouce R, Martínez-Valladares M. Drug discovery technologies: Caenorhabditis elegans as a model for anthelmintic therapeutics. Med Res Rev 2020; 40:1715-1753. [PMID: 32166776 DOI: 10.1002/med.21668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Revised: 12/10/2019] [Accepted: 02/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Helminthiasis is one of the gravest problems worldwide. There is a growing concern on less available anthelmintics and the emergence of resistance creating a major threat to human and livestock health resources. Novel and broad-spectrum anthelmintics are urgently needed. The free-living nematode Caenorhabditis elegans could address this issue through automated high-throughput technologies for the screening of large chemical libraries. This review discusses the strong advantages and limitations for using C elegans as a screening method for anthelmintic drug discovery. C elegans is the best model available for the validation of novel effective drugs in treating most, if not all, helminth infections, and for the elucidation the mode of action of anthelmintic candidates. This review also focuses on available technologies in the discovery of anthelmintics published over the last 15 years with particular attention to high-throughput technologies over conventional screens. On the other hand, this review highlights how combinatorial and nanomedicine strategies could prolong the use of anthelmintics and control resistance problems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Sepúlveda-Crespo
- Departamento de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de León, León, Spain
| | - Rosa M Reguera
- Departamento de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de León, León, Spain
| | - Francisco Rojo-Vázquez
- Instituto de Ganadería de Montaña (CSIC-Universidad de León), León, Spain.,Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de León, León, Spain
| | - Rafael Balaña-Fouce
- Departamento de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de León, León, Spain
| | - María Martínez-Valladares
- Instituto de Ganadería de Montaña (CSIC-Universidad de León), León, Spain.,Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de León, León, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Liu M, Panda SK, Luyten W. Plant-Based Natural Products for the Discovery and Development of Novel Anthelmintics against Nematodes. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10030426. [PMID: 32182910 PMCID: PMC7175113 DOI: 10.3390/biom10030426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Revised: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Intestinal parasitic nematodes infect approximately two billion people worldwide. In the absence of vaccines for human intestinal nematodes, control of infections currently relies mainly on chemotherapy, but resistance is an increasing problem. Thus, there is an urgent need for the discovery and development of new anthelmintic drugs, especially ones with novel mechanisms of action. Medicinal plants hold great promise as a source of effective treatments, including anthelmintic therapy. They have been used traditionally for centuries and are mostly safe (if not, their toxicity is well-known). However, in most medicinal plants the compounds active against nematodes have not been identified thus far. The free-living nematode C. elegans was demonstrated to be an excellent model system for the discovery of new anthelmintics and for characterizing their mechanism of action or resistance. The compounds discussed in this review are of botanical origin and were published since 2002. Most of them need further studies of their toxicity, mechanisms and structure-activity relationship to assess more fully their potential as drugs.
Collapse
|
19
|
Zarza-Albarrán MA, Olmedo-Juárez A, Rojo-Rubio R, Mendoza-de Gives P, González-Cortazar M, Tapia-Maruri D, Mondragón-Ancelmo J, García-Hernández C, Blé-González EA, Zamilpa A. Galloyl flavonoids from Acacia farnesiana pods possess potent anthelmintic activity against Haemonchus contortus eggs and infective larvae. J Ethnopharmacol 2020; 249:112402. [PMID: 31739102 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2019.112402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2018] [Revised: 08/26/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY RELEVANCE Acacia farnesiana (L.) Willd is a shrub legume used as condiment, medicinal plant and bioactive herbage. This species is used in traditional medicine of several countries to relieve the symptoms of gastrointestinal diseases, diarrhoea, stomach pain and typhoid as well as astringent, antidysenteric and anthelmintic. Some studies have shown that this plant displayed anthelmintic activity against several gastrointestinal nematode parasites of livestock, and also against parasites of human beings, such as malaria. AIM OF THE STUDY This work describes the isolation and chemical identification of the anthelmintic compounds of Acacia farnesiana pods against eggs and infective larvae of the sheep parasitic nematode Haemonchus contortus. The bio-guided chemical fractioning of A. farnesiana pods using ethyl acetate against H. contortus eggs and infective larvae allowed for the identification of naringenin 7-O-(6″-galloylglucoside) (flavonol group) as the compound responsible for the anthelmintic activity against this important parasitic nematode. MATERIALS AND METHODS Anthelmintic activity was assessed using the egg hatching inhibition assay (EHI) and mortality tests. A complete hydroalcoholic extract (HA-E) at 12.5-50 mg/mL, an aqueous fraction (Aq-F) at 3.12-25 mg/mL and an ethyl acetate fraction (EtOAc-F) at 3.12-25 mg/mL were analysed in the first selection phase. The purification of compounds through the chromatographic separation of the organic fraction resulted in nine less complex mixtures (C1F1, C1F2, C1F3, C1F4, C2F1, C2F2, C2F3, C2F4 and C2F5) that were assessed at 0.62-5 mg/mL concentrations. In addition, thiabendazole (0.6 mg/mL) and ivermectin (5 mg/mL) were used as positive controls. Likewise, distilled water and 4% methanol were used as negative controls. The bioactive compounds of EtOAc-F were obtained and characterised through chromatographic processes like open column chromatography, thin layer chromatography (TLC), high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) and gass chromatography-mass detection (GC-MS). Bioactive compounds were identified by spectroscopy (1H and 13C NMR) and mass spectrometric analysis. Additionally, the H. contortus eggs and infective larvae exposed to the bioactive compounds were observed through environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Data were analysed based on a completely randomised design using ANOVA through a general linear model. RESULTS The EtOAc-F fraction showed the highest ovicidal and larvicidal activities, at close to 100% at 3.12 and 6.25 mg/mL, respectively. The treatments C1F2, C1F3 and C2F3 displayed the main ovicidal activity (80-100%) at 2.5 mg/mL. The major compounds found in these sub-fractions were identified as galloyl derivatives and flavanones, including gallic acid (1), methyl gallate (2), ethyl gallate (3), naringin (4), naringenin 7-O-(4″, 6″-digalloylglucoside) (5), naringenin 7-O-(6″-galloylglucoside) (6) and naringenin (7). Likewise, the ESEM and CLSM images showed that the assessed compounds adhered to the eggshell and the external cuticle of the larvae. CONCLUSION These results indicate that A. farnesiana pods contain nematocidal compounds and might be promising natural anthelmintic agents against H. contortus. This leguminous plant could be used as a nutraceutical food source for the control of gastrointestinal nematodes in small ruminants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M A Zarza-Albarrán
- Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Forestales, Agrícolas y Pecuarias, Centro Nacional de Investigación Disciplinaria en Salud Animal e Inocuidad, Carr. Fed. Cuernavaca-Cuautla No. 8534, Jiutepec, Morelos, Mexico; Centro Universitario UAEM Temascaltepec, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México, Km 67.5 Carr. Fed, Toluca-Tejupilco, Temascaltepec, Mexico, Mexico
| | - A Olmedo-Juárez
- Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Forestales, Agrícolas y Pecuarias, Centro Nacional de Investigación Disciplinaria en Salud Animal e Inocuidad, Carr. Fed. Cuernavaca-Cuautla No. 8534, Jiutepec, Morelos, Mexico.
| | - R Rojo-Rubio
- Centro Universitario UAEM Temascaltepec, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México, Km 67.5 Carr. Fed, Toluca-Tejupilco, Temascaltepec, Mexico, Mexico
| | - P Mendoza-de Gives
- Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Forestales, Agrícolas y Pecuarias, Centro Nacional de Investigación Disciplinaria en Salud Animal e Inocuidad, Carr. Fed. Cuernavaca-Cuautla No. 8534, Jiutepec, Morelos, Mexico
| | - M González-Cortazar
- Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Centro de Investigación Biomédica del Sur, Argentina No. 1, Xochitepec, Morelos, Mexico
| | - D Tapia-Maruri
- Departamento de Biotecnología, Centro de Desarrollo de Productos Bióticos, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Carretera Yautepec-Jojutla Km 6, calle CEPROBI N°8, Col. San Isidro, Yautepec, Morelos, C.P. 62731, Mexico
| | - J Mondragón-Ancelmo
- Centro Universitario UAEM Temascaltepec, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México, Km 67.5 Carr. Fed, Toluca-Tejupilco, Temascaltepec, Mexico, Mexico
| | - C García-Hernández
- Centro Universitario UAEM Temascaltepec, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México, Km 67.5 Carr. Fed, Toluca-Tejupilco, Temascaltepec, Mexico, Mexico
| | - Ever A Blé-González
- Universidad Juárez Autónoma de Tabasco, Carretera Cunduacán-Jalpa Km. 0.5, 86690, Cunduacán, Tabasco, Mexico
| | - A Zamilpa
- Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Centro de Investigación Biomédica del Sur, Argentina No. 1, Xochitepec, Morelos, Mexico.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Yeshi K, Gyal Y, Sabernig K, Phuntsho J, Tidwell T, Jamtsho T, Dhondup R, Tokar E, Wangchuk P. An integrated medicine of Bhutan: Sowa Rigpa concepts, botanical identification, and the recorded phytochemical and pharmacological properties of the eastern Himalayan medicinal plants. Eur J Integr Med 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eujim.2019.100927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
|
21
|
Wangchuk P, Kouremenos K, Eichenberger RM, Pearson M, Susianto A, Wishart DS, McConville MJ, Loukas A. Metabolomic profiling of the excretory-secretory products of hookworm and whipworm. Metabolomics 2019; 15:101. [PMID: 31254203 DOI: 10.1007/s11306-019-1561-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Accepted: 06/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Soil-transmitted helminths infect billions of people, livestock and companion animals worldwide, and chronic infections with these nematodes represent a major health burden in many developing countries. On the other hand, complete elimination of parasitic helminths and other infectious pathogens has been implicated with rising rates of autoimmune and allergic disorders in developed countries. Given the enormous health impact of these parasites, it is surprising how little is known about the non-protein small metabolites of the excretory-secretory products (ESP), including their composition and pharmacological properties. OBJECTIVES We sought proof-of-concept that Nippostrongylus brasiliensis and Trichuris muris, rodent models of two of the most important human soil-transmitted helminths, secrete small metabolites and that some of these metabolites may have specific pharmacological functions. METHODS N. brasiliensis and T. muris ESP were collected from adult worms and filtered using a 10 kDa cut-off membrane to produce excretory-secretory metabolites (ESM). The ESM were analysed using targeted gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry for polar and non-polar small metabolites. RESULTS ESM from both N. brasiliensis and T. muris contained small molecules. A total of 54 small molecules (38 polar metabolites and 16 fatty acids) were identified, 36 known polar metabolites from N. brasiliensis and 35 from T. muris. A literature review of the identified compounds revealed that 17 of them have various demonstrated pharmacological activities. CONCLUSION N. brasiliensis and T. muris secrete polar and non-polar small molecules with as many as 17 metabolites known to exhibit various pharmacological activities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Phurpa Wangchuk
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Building E4, McGregor Rd, Smithfield, Cairns, QLD, 4878, Australia.
| | - Konstantinos Kouremenos
- Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, University of Melbourne, 30 Flemington Road, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Ramon M Eichenberger
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Building E4, McGregor Rd, Smithfield, Cairns, QLD, 4878, Australia
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 266a, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Mark Pearson
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Building E4, McGregor Rd, Smithfield, Cairns, QLD, 4878, Australia
| | - Atik Susianto
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Building E4, McGregor Rd, Smithfield, Cairns, QLD, 4878, Australia
| | - David S Wishart
- Department of Biological Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Malcolm J McConville
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Melbourne, 30 Flemington Road, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Alex Loukas
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Building E4, McGregor Rd, Smithfield, Cairns, QLD, 4878, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Garcia-Bustos JF, Sleebs BE, Gasser RB. An appraisal of natural products active against parasitic nematodes of animals. Parasit Vectors 2019; 12:306. [PMID: 31208455 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-019-3537-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2019] [Accepted: 05/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Here, the scientific and patent literature on the activities of purified natural compounds has been reviewed, with the aim of assessing their suitability as anthelmintic drug discovery starting points. Only compounds described as active against parasitic nematodes of animals or against the model nematode Caenorhabditis elegans have been analysed. Scientific articles published since 2010 and patents granted from 2000, both inclusive, have been included in this analysis. The results show a scarcity of novel chemical structures, a limited follow-up of compounds disclosed before 2010 and a bias towards the screening of plant products, almost to the exclusion of other sources, when microbial extracts have, historically, provided most starting points for anti-infective drugs. All plant products published in this period were previously known, alerting to the high re-discovery rates of a limited number of chemical classes from this source. The most promising compounds described in the literature reviewed here, namely the linear nemadectin-derivatives, are novel and of bacterial origin. Patented but otherwise unpublished spiroketal structures also appear as interesting scaffolds for future development. The patent literature confirmed that it is possible to patent derivatives of previously known products, making them valid starting points for translational research.
Collapse
|
23
|
Banerjee T, Singh A, Kumar S, Dhanani T, Gajbhiye NA, Koley TK, Maurya A, Filgona J. Ovicidal and larvicidal effects of extracts from leaves of Andrographis paniculata (Burm. f.) Wall.ex Nees against field isolates of human hookworm (Ancylostoma duodenale). J Ethnopharmacol 2019; 235:489-500. [PMID: 30763693 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2019.02.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2018] [Revised: 01/26/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE The whole plant of Andrographis paniculata (Burm. f.) Wall.ex Nees is used traditionally in different forms by the local people of Asian countries owing to its myriad medicinal properties. Its use as an anthelmintic has been mentioned in literature but has not been well elucidated. AIM OF THE STUDY To determine anthelmintic effects of extracts from leaves of A.paniculata against human hookworm species based on a standard assay system and to establish the effects of major active compounds responsible for the effects. MATERIALS AND METHODS Ovicidal and larvicidal activities of extracts of leaves of A.paniculata in different solvents ethanol (Et), methanol (Met), ethyl acetate (EA) and petroleum ether (PE) was studied against field isolates of Ancylostoma duodenale collected and cultivated from hookworm infected human stool samples by egg hatch and larval motility assays. Major active compounds namely andrographolide (AP1), neoandrographolide (AP2) and andrograpanin (AP3) were estimated quantitatively in all the extracts by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and mass spectrometry (MS) analysis. Anthelmintic effects (ED50, LC50) and presence of the marker compounds in each extract was statistically analyzed by principal component analysis (PCA). Further, biological activities of pure compounds of AP1, AP2, AP3 were assessed to validate the results of the study. RESULTS Extracts in ethanol and methanol showed highest activity in inhibition of egg hatching with lowest ED50 values (0.017 and 0.02 mg/mL respectively) while ethyl acetate extract had the highest activity against larval motility (0.001 mg/mL) followed by ethanol (0.019 mg/mL). On HPLC analysis, andrographolide content (%), the major diterpene compound, in Met and Et was 0.85 and 1.43 respectively. On PCA, andrographolide component in the extracts was associated with significant inhibitory effects both on egg hatching and larval motility. Pure compound AP1 also showed significant ovicidal and larvicidal activities at concentrations 0.125 µg/mL and 0.019 mg/mL respectively. CONCLUSION Andrographolide is one of the main phytochemical responsible for significant ovicidal and larvicidal activity against field isolates of A.duodenale from human infections and can be developed as a potential therapeutic choice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tuhina Banerjee
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, Uttar Pradesh, India.
| | - Aradhana Singh
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, Uttar Pradesh, India.
| | - Satyanshu Kumar
- ICAR-Directorate of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Research, Boriavi, 387310 Anand, Gujarat, India.
| | - Tushar Dhanani
- ICAR-Directorate of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Research, Boriavi, 387310 Anand, Gujarat, India.
| | - N A Gajbhiye
- ICAR-Directorate of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Research, Boriavi, 387310 Anand, Gujarat, India.
| | - Tanmay Kumar Koley
- ICAR-Research Complex for Eastern Region, Phulwari, Phulwari Road, Patna, Bihar 800014, India.
| | - Arti Maurya
- ICAR-Indian Institute of Vegetable Research, SH 74, Kelabela, Uttar Pradesh 231304, India.
| | - Joel Filgona
- Department of Biological Science, Adamawa State University, P.M.B. 25, Mubi, Nigeria.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Carvalho VF, Ramos LDA, da Silva CA, Nebo L, Moraes D, da Silva FFA, da Costa NCA, Rodrigues Junior RO, de Souza LF, Rodrigues RM. In vitro anthelmintic activity of Siparuna guianensis extract and essential oil against Strongyloides venezuelensis. J Helminthol 2019; 94:e50. [PMID: 30973122 DOI: 10.1017/S0022149X19000282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
New therapeutic approaches are necessary to control strongyloidiasis due to the side effects of, and resistance to, currently available drugs thiabendazole, albendazole, and ivermectin. This study examined the anthelmintic properties of extracts and isolated compounds from Siparuna guianensis against Strongyloides venezuelensis eggs and larvae, using the egg hatching test (EHT) and larval motility test (LMT). Albendazole (0.025 mg/ml) and ivermectin (0.316 mg/ml) were used as the positive controls for the EHT and LMT assays, respectively. Strongyloides venezuelensis eggs or larvae (±50 specimens) were treated with ethanol extract (0.05-1.0 mg/ml), ethyl acetate and aqueous fractions (0.05-0.8 mg/ml), essential oil (0.2-1.0 mg/ml) and α-bisabolol (0.2-1.0 mg/ml) from S. guianensis, and analysed by optical microscopy after 48 h (EHT), or after 24, 48 and 72 h (LMT). All the tested compounds exhibited ovicidal activity equivalent to the positive control and changed the morphology of the eggs. The S. guianensis ethanol extract and aqueous fraction were as effective as the positive control. Phytochemical analysis of the ethanol extract and fractions revealed the presence of phenolic compounds, tannins and flavonoids. Therefore, S. guianensis is effective against S. venezuelensis eggs and larvae in vitro, and can be considered as a potential alternative treatment for strongyloidiasis.
Collapse
|
25
|
Frahm S, Anisuzzaman A, Prodjinotho UF, Vejzagić N, Verschoor A, Prazeres da Costa C. A novel cell-free method to culture Schistosoma mansoni from cercariae to juvenile worm stages for in vitro drug testing. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2019; 13:e0006590. [PMID: 30689639 PMCID: PMC6375649 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0006590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2018] [Revised: 02/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The arsenal in anthelminthic treatment against schistosomiasis is limited and relies almost exclusively on a single drug, praziquantel (PZQ). Thus, resistance to PZQ could constitute a major threat. Even though PZQ is potent in killing adult worms, its activity against earlier stages is limited. Current in vitro drug screening strategies depend on newly transformed schistosomula (NTS) for initial hit identification, thereby limiting sensitivity to new compounds predominantly active in later developmental stages. Therefore, the aim of this study was to establish a highly standardized, straightforward and reliable culture method to generate and maintain advanced larval stages in vitro. We present here how this method can be a valuable tool to test drug efficacy at each intermediate larval stage, reducing the reliance on animal use (3Rs). Methodology/Principal findings Cercariae were mechanically transformed into skin-stage (SkS) schistosomula and successfully cultured for up to four weeks with no loss in viability in a commercially available medium. Under these serum- and cell-free conditions, development halted at the lung-stage (LuS). However, the addition of human serum (HSe) propelled further development into liver stage (LiS) worms within eight weeks. Skin and lung stages, as well as LiS, were submitted to 96-well drug screening assays using known anti-schistosomal compounds such as PZQ, oxamniquine (OXM), mefloquine (MFQ) and artemether (ART). Our findings showed stage-dependent differences in larval susceptibility to these compounds. Conclusion With this robust and highly standardized in vitro assay, important developmental stages of S. mansoni up to LiS worms can be generated and maintained over prolonged periods of time. The phenotype of LiS worms, when exposed to reference drugs, was comparable to most previously published works for ex vivo harvested adult worms. Therefore, this in vitro assay can help reduce reliance on animal experiments in search for new anti-schistosomal drugs. Schistosomiasis remains a major health threat, predominantly in developing countries. Even though there has been some progress in search of new drugs, praziquantel remains the only available drug. Probably the most important advance in the search for new drugs was in vitro transformation of cercariae and their subsequent culture. However, hit identification in compound screenings is exclusively tested in skin stage parasites and is only confirmed for more mature worms in a subsequent step. This is in part due to the lack of an easy culture system for advance-stage parasites. We present here a reliable and highly standardized way to generate LiS worms in vitro in a cell-free culture system. The inclusion of in vitro drug tests on advanced-stage parasites in initial hit identification will help to identify compounds that might otherwise be overlooked. Furthermore, the ability to continuously observe the parasite’s development in vitro will provide an important platform for a better understanding of its maturation in the human host. Taken together, this opens up new avenues to investigate the influence of specific cell types or host proteins on the development of Schistosoma mansoni and provides an additional tool to reduce animal use in future drug discovery efforts (3Rs).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sören Frahm
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Hygiene, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Anisuzzaman Anisuzzaman
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Hygiene, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
- Department of Parasitology, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, Bangladesh
| | - Ulrich Fabien Prodjinotho
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Hygiene, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Nermina Vejzagić
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Hygiene, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Admar Verschoor
- Institute for Systemic Inflammation Research, Universität zu Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Clarissa Prazeres da Costa
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Hygiene, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Gemma S, Federico S, Brogi S, Brindisi M, Butini S, Campiani G. Dealing with schistosomiasis: Current drug discovery strategies. Annual Reports in Medicinal Chemistry 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.armc.2019.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
|
27
|
Yeshi K, Wangdi T, Qusar N, Nettles J, Craig SR, Schrempf M, Wangchuk P. Geopharmaceuticals of Himalayan Sowa Rigpa medicine: Ethnopharmacological uses, mineral diversity, chemical identification and current utilization in Bhutan. J Ethnopharmacol 2018; 223:99-112. [PMID: 29751124 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2018.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2018] [Revised: 05/07/2018] [Accepted: 05/07/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Geological materials, such as minerals, have a long history of usage as ingredients in multicompound formulations of Himalayan Sowa Rigpa medicine - as well as in its localized form of Bhutanese traditional medicine (BTM) - for treating various disorders for over thousand years. Yet, hardly any scientific research has been done on their ethnopharmacological efficacy and chemistry. AIM OF THE STUDY This study documents and correlates the rarely explored ethnopharmacological and chemical identification of various minerals and their ethnomedicinal uses in BTM formulations for the first time. MATERIAL AND METHODS A five stage cross-disciplinary process was conducted as follows: (1) a review of classical literature of Sowa Rigpa texts (Tibetan medical texts, pharmacopoeias and formularies) that are still in use today; (2) listing of mineral ingredients according to Sowa Rigpa names, followed by identification with common English and chemical names, as well as re-translating their ethnomedical uses; (3) cross-checking the chemical names and chemical composition of identified Sowa Rigpa minerals with various geological mineral databases and mineral handbooks; (4) authentication and standardization of Sowa Rigpa names through open forum discussion with diverse BTM practitioners; (5) further confirmation of the chemical names of identified minerals by consulting different experts and pharmacognosists. RESULTS Our current study lists 120 minerals as described in Sowa Rigpa medical textbooks most of which we were able to chemically identify, and of which 28 are currently used in BTM herbo-mineral formulations. Out of these 28 mineral ingredients, 5 originate from precious metal and stone, 10 stem from earth, mud and rocks, 8 are salts, and 5 concern 'essences' and exudates. CONCLUSIONS Our study identified 120 mineral ingredients described in Sowa Rigpa medical textbooks, out of which 28 are currently used. They are crucial in formulating 108 multicompound prescription medicines in BTM presently in use for treating more than 135 biomedically defined ailments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karma Yeshi
- Wangbama Central School, Thimphu District, Bhutan
| | - Tendrel Wangdi
- Khesar Gyalpo University of Medical Sciences of Bhutan, Thimphu, Bhutan
| | - Namgyal Qusar
- Qusar Tibetan Healing Centre, P.O. Sidhpur, Dharamsala, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | | | | | - Mona Schrempf
- Central Asian Seminar, Institute of Asian and African Studies, Humboldt University Berlin, Germany
| | - Phurpa Wangchuk
- Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Yan HB, Smout MJ, Ju C, Folley AE, Skinner DE, Mann VH, Loukas A, Hu W, Brindley PJ, Rinaldi G. Developmental Sensitivity in Schistosoma mansoni to Puromycin To Establish Drug Selection of Transgenic Schistosomes. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2018; 62:e02568-17. [PMID: 29760143 DOI: 10.1128/AAC.02568-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2017] [Accepted: 04/27/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is considered the most important disease caused by helminth parasites, in terms of morbidity and mortality. Tools to facilitate gain- and loss-of-function approaches can be expected to precipitate the discovery of novel interventions, and drug selection of transgenic schistosomes would facilitate the establishment of stable lines of engineered parasites. Sensitivity of developmental stages of schistosomes to the aminonucleoside antibiotic puromycin was investigated. For the schistosomulum and sporocyst stages, viability was quantified by fluorescence microscopy following dual staining with fluorescein diacetate and propidium iodine. By 6 days in culture, the 50% lethal concentration (LC50) for schistosomula was 19 μg/ml whereas the sporocysts were 45-fold more resilient. Puromycin potently inhibited the development of in vitro-laid eggs (LC50, 68 ng/ml) but was less effective against liver eggs (LC50, 387 μg/ml). Toxicity for adult stages was evaluated using the xCELLigence-based, real-time motility assay (xWORM), which revealed LC50s after 48 h of 4.9 and 17.3 μg/ml for male and female schistosomes, respectively. Also, schistosomula transduced with pseudotyped retrovirus encoding the puromycin resistance marker were partially rescued when cultured in the presence of the antibiotic. Together, these findings will facilitate selection on puromycin of transgenic schistosomes and the enrichment of cultures of transgenic eggs and sporocysts to facilitate the establishment of schistosome transgenic lines. Streamlining schistosome transgenesis with drug selection will open new avenues to understand parasite biology and hopefully lead to new interventions for this neglected tropical disease.
Collapse
|
29
|
Liu M, Kipanga P, Mai AH, Dhondt I, Braeckman BP, De Borggraeve W, Luyten W. Bioassay-guided isolation of three anthelmintic compounds from Warburgia ugandensis Sprague subspecies ugandensis, and the mechanism of action of polygodial. Int J Parasitol 2018; 48:833-844. [PMID: 30031002 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2017.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2017] [Revised: 11/27/2017] [Accepted: 11/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Parasitic helminths continue to pose problems in human and veterinary medicine, as well as in agriculture. Resistance to current anthelmintics has prompted the search for new drugs. Anthelmintic metabolites from medicinal plants could be good anthelmintic drug candidates. However, the compounds active against nematodes have not been identified in most medicinal plants with anthelmintic activity. In this study, we aimed to identify the active compounds against helminths in Warburgia ugandensis Sprague subspecies ugandensis (Canellaceae) and study the underlying mechanism of action. A bioassay-guided isolation of anthelmintic compounds from the plant was performed using a Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) test model with a WMicrotracker instrument to monitor motility. Three active compounds were purified and identified by nuclear magnetic resonance and high resolution MS: warburganal (IC50: 28.2 ± 8.6 μM), polygodial (IC50: 13.1 ± 5.3 μM) and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA, IC50: 70.1 ± 17.5 μM). A checkerboard assay for warburganal and ALA as well as polygodial and ALA showed a fractional inhibitory concentration index of 0.41 and 0.37, respectively, suggesting that polygodial and ALA, as well as warburganal and ALA, have a synergistic effect against nematodes. A preliminary structure-activity relationship study for polygodial showed that the α,β-unsaturated 1,4-dialdehyde structural motif is essential for the potent activity. None of a panel of C. elegans mutant strains, resistant against major anthelmintic drug classes, showed significant resistance to polygodial, implying that polygodial may block C. elegans motility through a mechanism which differs from that of currently marketed drugs. Further measurements showed that polygodial inhibits mitochondrial ATP synthesis of C. elegans in a dose-dependent manner (IC50: 1.8 ± 1.0 μM). Therefore, we believe that the underlying mechanism of action of polygodial is probably inhibition of mitochondrial ATP synthesis. In conclusion, polygodial could be a promising anthelmintic drug candidate worth considering for further development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maoxuan Liu
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; Department of Biology, Animal Physiology and Neurobiology Section, KU Leuven, Naamsestraat 59, Box 2465, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Purity Kipanga
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Anh Hung Mai
- Department of Chemistry, Molecular Design and Synthesis, KU Leuven, Celestijnenlaan 200F, Box 2404, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ineke Dhondt
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University, K.L. Ledeganckstraat 35, 9000 Gent, Belgium
| | - Bart P Braeckman
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University, K.L. Ledeganckstraat 35, 9000 Gent, Belgium
| | - Wim De Borggraeve
- Department of Chemistry, Molecular Design and Synthesis, KU Leuven, Celestijnenlaan 200F, Box 2404, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Walter Luyten
- Department of Biology, Animal Physiology and Neurobiology Section, KU Leuven, Naamsestraat 59, Box 2465, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Partridge FA, Forman R, Willis NJ, Bataille CJR, Murphy EA, Brown AE, Heyer-Chauhan N, Marinič B, Sowood DJC, Wynne GM, Else KJ, Russell AJ, Sattelle DB. 2,4-Diaminothieno[3,2-d]pyrimidines, a new class of anthelmintic with activity against adult and egg stages of whipworm. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2018; 12:e0006487. [PMID: 29995893 PMCID: PMC6062138 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0006487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2018] [Revised: 07/26/2018] [Accepted: 05/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The human whipworm Trichuris trichiura is a parasite that infects around 500 million people globally, with consequences including damage to physical growth and educational performance. Current drugs such as mebendazole have a notable lack of efficacy against whipworm, compared to other soil-transmitted helminths. Mass drug administration programs are therefore unlikely to achieve eradication and new treatments for trichuriasis are desperately needed. All current drug control strategies focus on post-infection eradication, targeting the parasite in vivo. Here we propose developing novel anthelmintics which target the egg stage of the parasite in the soil as an adjunct environmental strategy. As evidence in support of such an approach we describe the actions of a new class of anthelmintic compounds, the 2,4-diaminothieno[3,2-d]pyrimidines (DATPs). This compound class has found broad utility in medicinal chemistry, but has not previously been described as having anthelmintic activity. Importantly, these compounds show efficacy against not only the adult parasite, but also both the embryonated and unembryonated egg stages and thereby may enable a break in the parasite lifecycle. The human whipworm, Trichuris trichiura, infects around 500 million people globally, impacting on their physical growth and educational performance. There are currently huge mass drug administration (MDA) programs aiming to control whipworm, along with the other major soil transmitted helminths, Ascaris and hookworm. However single doses of albendazole and mebendazole, which are used in MDA, have particularly poor effectiveness against whipworm, with cure rates less than 40%. This means that MDA may not be able to control and eliminate whipworm infection, and risks the spread of resistance to albendazole and mebendazole in the parasite population. We are attempting to develop new treatments for parasitic worm infection, particularly focused on whipworm. We report the identification of a class of compounds, diaminothienopyrimidines (DATPs), which have not previously been described as anthelmintics. These compounds are effective against adult stages of whipworm, and also block the development of the model nematode C. elegans. Our DATP compounds reduce the ability of treated eggs to successfully establish infection in a mouse model of human whipworm. These results support a potential environmental spray to control whipworm by targeting the infectious egg stage in environmental hotspots.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Frederick A. Partridge
- Centre for Respiratory Biology, UCL Respiratory, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ruth Forman
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Nicky J. Willis
- Department of Chemistry, Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Carole J. R. Bataille
- Department of Chemistry, Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Emma A. Murphy
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Anwen E. Brown
- Centre for Respiratory Biology, UCL Respiratory, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Narinder Heyer-Chauhan
- Centre for Respiratory Biology, UCL Respiratory, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Bruno Marinič
- Department of Chemistry, Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel J. C. Sowood
- Department of Chemistry, Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Graham M. Wynne
- Department of Chemistry, Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Kathryn J. Else
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- * E-mail: (DBS); (KJE); (AJR)
| | - Angela J. Russell
- Department of Chemistry, Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- * E-mail: (DBS); (KJE); (AJR)
| | - David B. Sattelle
- Centre for Respiratory Biology, UCL Respiratory, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- * E-mail: (DBS); (KJE); (AJR)
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Affiliation(s)
- Phurpa Wangchuk
- Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns Campus, QLD 4878, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Partridge FA, Brown AE, Buckingham SD, Willis NJ, Wynne GM, Forman R, Else KJ, Morrison AA, Matthews JB, Russell AJ, Lomas DA, Sattelle DB. An automated high-throughput system for phenotypic screening of chemical libraries on C. elegans and parasitic nematodes. Int J Parasitol Drugs Drug Resist 2017; 8:8-21. [PMID: 29223747 PMCID: PMC5734697 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2017.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2017] [Revised: 11/23/2017] [Accepted: 11/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Parasitic nematodes infect hundreds of millions of people and farmed livestock. Further, plant parasitic nematodes result in major crop damage. The pipeline of therapeutic compounds is limited and parasite resistance to the existing anthelmintic compounds is a global threat. We have developed an INVertebrate Automated Phenotyping Platform (INVAPP) for high-throughput, plate-based chemical screening, and an algorithm (Paragon) which allows screening for compounds that have an effect on motility and development of parasitic worms. We have validated its utility by determining the efficacy of a panel of known anthelmintics against model and parasitic nematodes: Caenorhabditis elegans, Haemonchus contortus, Teladorsagia circumcincta, and Trichuris muris. We then applied the system to screen the Pathogen Box chemical library in a blinded fashion and identified compounds already known to have anthelmintic or anti-parasitic activity, including tolfenpyrad, auranofin, and mebendazole; and 14 compounds previously undescribed as anthelmintics, including benzoxaborole and isoxazole chemotypes. This system offers an effective, high-throughput system for the discovery of novel anthelmintics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Frederick A Partridge
- Centre for Respiratory Biology, UCL Respiratory, Division of Medicine, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
| | - Anwen E Brown
- Centre for Respiratory Biology, UCL Respiratory, Division of Medicine, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
| | - Steven D Buckingham
- Centre for Respiratory Biology, UCL Respiratory, Division of Medicine, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
| | - Nicky J Willis
- Department of Chemistry, Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford, 12 Mansfield Road, Oxford, OX1 3TA, United Kingdom
| | - Graham M Wynne
- Department of Chemistry, Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford, 12 Mansfield Road, Oxford, OX1 3TA, United Kingdom
| | - Ruth Forman
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, United Kingdom
| | - Kathryn J Else
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, United Kingdom
| | - Alison A Morrison
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentland Science Park, Bush Loan, Penicuik, Midlothian, EH26 0PZ, United Kingdom
| | - Jacqueline B Matthews
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentland Science Park, Bush Loan, Penicuik, Midlothian, EH26 0PZ, United Kingdom
| | - Angela J Russell
- Department of Chemistry, Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford, 12 Mansfield Road, Oxford, OX1 3TA, United Kingdom; Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Mansfield Road, Oxford, OX1 3QT, United Kingdom
| | - David A Lomas
- Centre for Respiratory Biology, UCL Respiratory, Division of Medicine, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom.
| | - David B Sattelle
- Centre for Respiratory Biology, UCL Respiratory, Division of Medicine, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Sundaraneedi MK, Tedla BA, Eichenberger RM, Becker L, Pickering D, Smout MJ, Rajan S, Wangchuk P, Keene FR, Loukas A, Collins JG, Pearson MS. Polypyridylruthenium(II) complexes exert anti-schistosome activity and inhibit parasite acetylcholinesterases. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2017; 11:e0006134. [PMID: 29240773 PMCID: PMC5746282 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0006134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2017] [Revised: 12/28/2017] [Accepted: 11/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Schistosomiasis affects over 200 million people and there are concerns whether the current chemotherapeutic control strategy (periodic mass drug administration with praziquantel (PZQ)-the only licenced anti-schistosome compound) is sustainable, necessitating the development of new drugs. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS We investigated the anti-schistosome efficacy of polypyridylruthenium(II) complexes and showed they were active against all intra-mammalian stages of S. mansoni. Two compounds, Rubb12-tri and Rubb7-tnl, which were among the most potent in their ability to kill schistosomula and adult worms and inhibit egg hatching in vitro, were assessed for their efficacy in a mouse model of schistosomiasis using 5 consecutive daily i.v. doses of 2 mg/kg (Rubb12-tri) and 10 mg/kg (Rubb7-tnl). Mice treated with Rubb12-tri showed an average 42% reduction (P = 0.009), over two independent trials, in adult worm burden. Liver egg burdens were not significantly decreased in either drug-treated group but ova from both of these groups showed significant decreases in hatching ability (Rubb12-tri-68%, Rubb7-tnl-56%) and were significantly morphologically altered (Rubb12-tri-62% abnormal, Rubb7-tnl-35% abnormal). We hypothesize that the drugs exerted their activity, at least partially, through inhibition of both neuronal and tegumental acetylcholinesterases (AChEs), as worms treated in vitro showed significant decreases in activity of these enzymes. Further, treated parasites exhibited a significantly decreased ability to uptake glucose, significantly depleted glycogen stores and withered tubercules (a site of glycogen storage), implying drug-mediated interference in this nutrient acquisition pathway. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE Our data provide compelling evidence that ruthenium complexes are effective against all intra-mammalian stages of schistosomes, including schistosomula (refractory to PZQ) and eggs (agents of disease transmissibility). Further, the results of this study suggest that schistosome AChE is a target of ruthenium drugs, a finding that can inform modification of current compounds to identify analogues which are even more effective and selective against schistosomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Madhu K. Sundaraneedi
- School of Physical, Environmental and Mathematical Sciences, UNSW Canberra, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Bemnet A. Tedla
- Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - Ramon M. Eichenberger
- Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - Luke Becker
- Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - Darren Pickering
- Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - Michael J. Smout
- Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - Siji Rajan
- School of Physical, Environmental and Mathematical Sciences, UNSW Canberra, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Phurpa Wangchuk
- Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - F. Richard Keene
- Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
- School of Physical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Alex Loukas
- Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - J. Grant Collins
- School of Physical, Environmental and Mathematical Sciences, UNSW Canberra, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Mark S. Pearson
- Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Wangchuk P, Yeshi K, Jamphel K. Pharmacological, ethnopharmacological, and botanical evaluation of subtropical medicinal plants of Lower Kheng region in Bhutan. Integr Med Res 2017; 6:372-87. [PMID: 29296564 DOI: 10.1016/j.imr.2017.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2017] [Revised: 08/04/2017] [Accepted: 08/17/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The Bhutanese Sowa Rigpa medicine (BSM) uses medicinal plants as the bulk ingredients. Our study was to botanically identify subtropical medicinal plants from the Lower Kheng region in Bhutan, transcribe ethnopharmacological uses, and highlight reported pharmacological activities of each plant. Methods We freely listed the medicinal plants used in the BSM literature, current formulations, and the medicinal plants inventory documents. This was followed by a survey and the identification of medicinal plants in the Lower Kheng region. The botanical identification of each medicinal plant was confirmed using The Plant List, eFloras, and TROPICOS. Data mining for reported pharmacological activities was performed using Google Scholar, Scopus, PubMed, and SciFinder Scholar. Results We identified 61 subtropical plants as the medicinal plants used in BSM. Of these, 17 plants were cultivated as edible plant species, 30 species grow abundantly, 24 species grow in moderate numbers, and only seven species were scarce to find. All these species grow within the altitude range of 100–1800 m above sea level. A total of 19 species were trees, and 13 of them were shrubs. Seeds ranked first in the parts usage category. Goshing Gewog (Block) hosted maximum number of medicinal plants. About 52 species have been pharmacologically studied and only nine species remain unstudied. Conclusion Lower Kheng region is rich in subtropical medicinal plants and 30 species present immediate economic potential that could benefit BSM, Lower Kheng communities and other Sowa Rigpa practicing organizations.
Collapse
|
35
|
Partridge FA, Murphy EA, Willis NJ, Bataille CJR, Forman R, Heyer-Chauhan N, Marinič B, Sowood DJC, Wynne GM, Else KJ, Russell AJ, Sattelle DB. Dihydrobenz[e][1,4]oxazepin-2(3H)-ones, a new anthelmintic chemotype immobilising whipworm and reducing infectivity in vivo. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2017; 11:e0005359. [PMID: 28182663 PMCID: PMC5321434 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0005359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2016] [Revised: 02/22/2017] [Accepted: 01/26/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Trichuris trichiura is a human parasitic whipworm infecting around 500 million people globally, damaging the physical growth and educational performance of those infected. Current drug treatment options are limited and lack efficacy against the worm, preventing an eradication programme. It is therefore important to develop new treatments for trichuriasis. Using Trichuris muris, an established model for T. trichiura, we screened a library of 480 novel drug-like small molecules for compounds causing paralysis of the ex vivo adult parasite. We identified a class of dihydrobenz[e][1,4]oxazepin-2(3H)-one compounds with anthelmintic activity against T. muris. Further screening of structurally related compounds and resynthesis of the most potent molecules led to the identification of 20 active dihydrobenzoxazepinones, a class of molecule not previously implicated in nematode control. The most active immobilise adult T. muris with EC50 values around 25–50μM, comparable to the existing anthelmintic levamisole. The best compounds from this chemotype show low cytotoxicity against murine gut epithelial cells, demonstrating selectivity for the parasite. Developing a novel oral pharmaceutical treatment for a neglected disease and deploying it via mass drug administration is challenging. Interestingly, the dihydrobenzoxazepinone OX02983 reduces the ability of embryonated T. muris eggs to establish infection in the mouse host in vivo. Complementing the potential development of dihydrobenzoxazepinones as an oral anthelmintic, this supports an alternative strategy of developing a therapeutic that acts in the environment, perhaps via a spray, to interrupt the parasite lifecycle. Together these results show that the dihydrobenzoxazepinones are a new class of anthelmintic, active against both egg and adult stages of Trichuris parasites. They demonstrate encouraging selectivity for the parasite, and importantly show considerable scope for further optimisation to improve potency and pharmacokinetic properties with the aim of developing a clinical agent. Trichuris trichiura is a human parasitic whipworm infecting around 500 million people globally and having major consequences on the physical growth and educational performance of those infected. Current drug treatment options are limited and lack efficacy against the worm. Critically, they lack the effectiveness that would allow for a practical program for eradication of this parasite. It is therefore important to develop new treatments for trichuriasis. We screened for molecules that could paralyse the adult of a closely related mouse parasite, and identified a class of compounds, the dihydrobenzoxazepinones, not previously implicated as anthelmintics. Importantly, our compounds are active against the parasite but show only low toxicity against mouse cells, demonstrating selectivity for the parasite. Dihydrobenzoxazepinones could be developed as potential pharmaceutical treatments for trichuriasis. Since developing and deploying new drugs for neglected diseases by mass administration is challenging, we also explored whether the compounds could potentially be used to interrupt the Trichuris lifecycle by acting on eggs. Our dihydrobenzoxazepinone compounds reduced the ability of T. muris eggs to establish infection in their mouse host. This supports an environmental spray strategy for the control of Trichuris targeting their eggs in environmental hotspots such as latrines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Frederick A. Partridge
- Centre for Respiratory Biology, UCL Respiratory, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Emma A. Murphy
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Nicky J. Willis
- Department of Chemistry, Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Carole J. R. Bataille
- Department of Chemistry, Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Ruth Forman
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Narinder Heyer-Chauhan
- Centre for Respiratory Biology, UCL Respiratory, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Bruno Marinič
- Department of Chemistry, Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel J. C. Sowood
- Department of Chemistry, Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Graham M. Wynne
- Department of Chemistry, Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Kathryn J. Else
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- * E-mail: (KJE); (AJR); (DBS)
| | - Angela J. Russell
- Department of Chemistry, Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- * E-mail: (KJE); (AJR); (DBS)
| | - David B. Sattelle
- Centre for Respiratory Biology, UCL Respiratory, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- * E-mail: (KJE); (AJR); (DBS)
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Huang Y, Li W, Lu W, Xiong C, Yang Y, Yan H, Liu KC, Cao P. Cloning and in vitro characterization of a Schistosoma japonicum aquaglyceroporin that functions in osmoregulation. Sci Rep 2016; 6:35030. [PMID: 27733755 PMCID: PMC5062077 DOI: 10.1038/srep35030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2016] [Accepted: 09/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
As one of the three major human pathogens that cause schistosomiasis, Schistosoma japonicum is the only one that is endemic in China. Despite great progress on schistosomiasis control over the past 50 years in China, S. japonicum transmission still occurs in certain endemic regions, which causes significant public health problems and enormous economic losses. During different life stages, parasites are able to survive dramatic osmolality changes between its vector, fresh water, and mammal host. However, the molecular mechanism of parasite osmoregulation remains unknown. To address this challenging question, we report the first cloning of an S. japonicum aquaglyceroporin (SjAQP) from an isolate from Jiangsu province, China. Expressing SjAQP in Xenopus oocytes facilitated the permeation of water, glycerol, and urea. The water permeability of SjAQP was inhibited by 1 mM HgCl2, 3 mM tetraethylammonium, 1 mM ZnCl2, and 1 mM CuSO4. SjAQP was constitutively expressed throughout the S. japonicum life cycle, including in the egg, miracidia, cercaria, and adult stages. The highest expression was detected during the infective cercaria stage. Our results suggest that SjAQP plays a role in osmoregulation throughout the S. japonicum life cycle, especially during cercariae transformation, which enables parasites to survive osmotic challenges.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuzheng Huang
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210028, China
- Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210028, China
| | - Wei Li
- Jiangsu Institute of Parasitic Diseases, key Laboratory on Technology for Parasitic Diseases Prevention and Control, Ministry of Health, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214064, China
| | - Wuguang Lu
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210028, China
- Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210028, China
| | - Chunrong Xiong
- Jiangsu Institute of Parasitic Diseases, key Laboratory on Technology for Parasitic Diseases Prevention and Control, Ministry of Health, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214064, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210028, China
- Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210028, China
| | - Huaijiang Yan
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210028, China
- Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210028, China
| | - Kun Connie Liu
- Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute, Dept. Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Peng Cao
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210028, China
- Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210028, China
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Wangchuk P, Giacomin PR, Pearson MS, Smout MJ, Loukas A. Identification of lead chemotherapeutic agents from medicinal plants against blood flukes and whipworms. Sci Rep 2016; 6:32101. [PMID: 27572696 DOI: 10.1038/srep32101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2016] [Accepted: 08/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis and trichuriasis are two of the most common neglected tropical diseases (NTD) that affect almost a billion people worldwide. There is only a limited number of effective drugs to combat these NTD. Medicinal plants are a viable source of parasiticides. In this study, we have investigated six of the 19 phytochemicals isolated from two Bhutanese medicinal plants, Corydalis crispa and Pleurospermum amabile, for their anthelmintic properties. We used the xWORM technique and Scanning Electron Microscope-based imaging to determine the activity of the compounds. Of the six compounds tested, isomyristicin and bergapten showed significant anthelmintic activity against Schistosoma mansoni and Trichuris muris with bergapten being the most efficacious compound one against both parasites (S. mansoni IC50 = 8.6 μg/mL and T. muris IC50 = 10.6 μg/mL) and also against the schistosomulum stage of S. mansoni. These two compounds induced tegumental damage to S. mansoni and affected the cuticle, bacillary bands and bacillary glands of T. muris. The efficacy against multiple phylogenetically distinct parasites and different life stages, especially the schistosomulum where praziquantel is ineffective, makes isomyristicin and bergapten novel scaffolds for broad-spectrum anthelmintic drug development that could be used for the control of helminths infecting humans and animals.
Collapse
|