Potential antischistosomal effect of Phoenix dactylifera seed extract in Schistosoma mansoni-infected mice

Document Type : Original Article

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Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt.

Abstract

Background: Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease that affects humans and animals. Praziquantel (PZQ) is the standard treatment but lacks anti-fibrotic effects in Schistosoma mansoni-infected patients. Phoenix dactylifera (date) seeds have attracted interest in biomedical applications. Aim: This study evaluated the effectiveness of anti-fibrotic and anti-schistosomal properties of P. dactylifera seeds extract (PDSE) in a murine model. Materials and Methods: Fifty male CD1 mice (22 ± 3 g) were divided into five groups (n = 10): Group 1 (Gp1) served as a negative control. Gp2, Gp3, Gp4, and Gp5 were infected with 60–80 S. mansoni cercariae via tail immersion. After one month, Gp3 received PZQ (500 mg/kg) orally for two consecutive days. Gp4 was treated with PDSE (100 mg/kg) orally for 15 days, and Gp5 received PZQ followed by PDSE at the same doses. Parasitological, biochemical, and histological parameters were assessed. Results: PZQ treatment significantly reduced worm burden but had limited effects on granuloma formation. Treatments with PDSE and PZQ/PDSE considerably decreased the size of granulomas and reduced the number of worms and eggs in intestinal and hepatic tissues. Histopathological and biochemical analyses demonstrated that PDSE and PZQ/PDSE reduced the changes brought on by S. mansoni infection. Conclusion: Whether taken alone or in conjunction with PZQ, PDSE collectively showed anti-schistosomal potential by drastically lowering egg deposition and having an anti-fibrotic effect on granulomatous inflammation.

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