| Journal: |
Iran J Parasitol: Vol. 13, No. 2, Apr-Jun 2018, pp.193-203
Iran J Parasitol: Vol. 13, No. 2, Apr-Jun 2018, pp.193-203
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Volume: |
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| Abstract: |
Abstract
Background: Despite the global efforts to control schistosomiasis, still prevalence
in
endemic
regions
unchanged.
The
present
study
was
conducted
to
investigate
the
possible
role
of
artesunate
(AS)
and
praziquantel
(PZQ)
combination
in
enhancing
cure in pre-patent and patent Schistosoma mansoni infection, and study
the role of apoptosis in evaluation of the drugs efficacy.
Methods: Eighty laboratory-bred Swiss albino male mice were classified into
four groups (20 mice each); control, PZQ treated (500 mg/kg), AS treated (400
mg/kg) and combined AS (400 mg/kg) + PZQ (500 mg/g) groups. Efficacy of
the drugs was assessed by parasitological (egg count/gram stool, worm burden,
tissue egg load, oogram pattern), histopathological (haematoxylin and eosin –for
detection of type of hepatic granulomas, number & diameter) and immunohistochemical
studies
(P53
and
Bcl-2
markers
for
determination
of
inflammatory
cells
and
the
degree
of
apoptosis).
Results: Significant reduction was recorded in stool egg count, tissue egg count
(liver and intestine), worm burden, granuloma number and size and changed
oogram patterns in artesunate -praziquantel combined group followed by artesunate
monotherapy group. There was a significant increase in the apoptotic
proteins P53 and slight increase in anti-apoptotic proteins Bcl-2 in the infected
group compared to the control healthy group. A significant decrease and increase
in P53 & Bcl-2 expressions respectively were observed in artesunate – praziquantel
combined
group
compared
to
control
infected
group.
Conclusion: artesunate-praziquantel combination is a potential upcoming
chemotherapy for schistosomiasis mansoni. Both Bcl-2 and P53 are good markers
assessing S. mansoni apoptosis, morbidity and chemotherapy efficacy.
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