Praziquantel Nanoparticle Formulation for the Treatment of Schistosomiasis

Author(s):Show less -

Mengarda, Ana C. ; Iles, Bruno ; Rodrigues, Vinicius C. ; Lima, Ana Luiza ; Machado, Victoria P. ; Reatgui, Walberson S. ; da Silva, Patricia Bento ; Radichi, Marina A. ; Silva, Tais C. ; Teixeira, Fernanda S. ; Salvadori, Maria C. ; Simoes, Marina M. ; Paiva, Karen L. R. ; Grisolia, Cesar K. ; Fascineli, Maria L. ; Silva, Sebastiao ; Cunha-Filho, Marcilio S. S. ; Bao, Sonia N. ; Longo, Joao P. F. ; de Moraes, Josue

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: ACS APPLIED NANO MATERIALS; v. 8, n. 8, p. 13-pg., 2025-02-14.

Abstract

Schistosomiasis, a parasitic disease affecting around 250 million people globally, primarily children, necessitates the urgent development of pediatric praziquantel formulations, as outlined in the WHO neglected tropical diseases roadmap 2021-2030. We developed a low-cost PZQ nanoformulation utilizing a self-nanoemulsified delivery system (SNEDDS-PZQ). Physicochemical characterization confirms its hydrodynamic size and suitability for semi-industrial pilot batch production. Toxicity studies across multiple models demonstrate its safety profile. In vivo studies in schistosomiasis animal models reveal significant parasite load reduction (over 95%) with a single oral dose of 200 and 400 mg/kg of SNEDDS-PZQ, surpassing free praziquantel efficacy. Pharmacokinetic analyses demonstrate increased PZQ blood levels postadministration of SNEDDS-PZQ. Our findings highlight the promise of this innovative approach in pediatric schistosomiasis treatment by using this nanotechnology as a delivery system, offering potential for widespread application. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 20/01441-4 - Drug selection with anthelmintic properties, nanoencapsulation and preclinical evaluation in experimental model of schistosomiasis
• Grantee: Josué de Moraes
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• FAPESP's process: 19/25905-2 - Preclinical evaluation for oral administration of nanostructured formulations containing drugs with anthelmintic activity
• Grantee: Ana Carolina Araujo Mengarda
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate
• FAPESP's process: 19/25289-0 - In vitro anthelmintic activity of praziquantel and mefenamic acid nanocarreated
• Grantee: Vinícius de Castro Rodrigues
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation