EFFECT OF JUSTICIA SECUNDA EXTRACT ON THE CONTROL OF SCHISTOSOMIASIS MANSONI IN A MURINE MODEL

• Grant number: 24/21995-5
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: March 01, 2025
• End date: February 28, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Parasitology - Helminthology of Parasites
• Principal Investigator: Fernanda de Freitas Anibal
• Grantee: Bárbara Baptista
• Host Institution: Centro de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde (CCBS). Universidade Federal de São Carlos (UFSCAR). São Carlos , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Schistosomiasis is a chronic parasitic disease endemic to tropical regions, caused by worms of the Schistosoma genus. This disease affects over 200 million people worldwide, poses a challenge to public health, and is currently experiencing geographic expansion. In Brazil, it is exclusively caused by the trematode Schistosoma mansoni, affecting areas with poor socioeconomic conditions lacking basic sanitation systems and habitats of snails from the Biomphalaria genus, which are susceptible to infection and serve as intermediate hosts in the parasite's life cycle. The only treatment for this helminthiasis is Praziquantel, an anthelmintic drug used since the 1970s. However, this medication has shown limitations related to reduced sensitivity, a problem already reported in some strains. To control infection during the disease, new natural products from the Brazilian Amazon are being explored, such as the plant Justicia secunda. Although studies on its effects on parasitic diseases are scarce, its extract is described as a potential phytotherapeutic agent due to its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, antioxidant, and antiparasitic activity. Therefore, the objective of this study is to evaluate the potential effects of the leaf extract of Justicia secunda, aiming to provide an alternative to conventional treatment for Schistosoma mansoni infection. In this study, Justicia secunda extract will be administered orally to female Balb/c mice. Parasitological parameters will be assessed in the murine model through egg counts using the Kato-Katz method and evaluation of parasite load by recovering adult worms via perfusion of the portal system and intestinal mesentery. Leukocyte parameters will be analyzed by total and differential leukocyte counts in blood and peritoneal cavity lavage, along with the measurement of IL-4, IL-10, IFN-¿, and IgE using the ELISA method. Histopathological parameters will be evaluated through histological analysis of liver and intestinal samples.