Acta Parasitologica最新文献

{"title":"Molecular Characterization of Paragonimus westermani from South India","authors":"Anisha Joy,&nbsp;Anju Varghese,&nbsp;Chundayil Kalarickal Deepa,&nbsp;Karapparambu Gopalan Ajith Kumar,&nbsp;Sebasteena Peekunnel Francis,&nbsp;Aleena Iype,&nbsp;Geethu Reghu,&nbsp;Sreenidhi Nellikka Chalapron,&nbsp;Anaswara Aravindhakshan,&nbsp;George Chandy,&nbsp;Pradeep Mampillikalam,&nbsp;Hamza Palekkodan,&nbsp;Reghu Ravindran","doi":"10.1007/s11686-025-01044-9","DOIUrl":"10.1007/s11686-025-01044-9","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Purpose</h3><p><i>Paragonimus westermani</i> is the most common lung fluke infecting humans in Asia. This study aimed to molecularly characterize adult <i>P. westermani</i> from the south India (Kerala) using ITS-2, partial 28 S rDNA and partial <i>cox</i>1 gene sequences.</p><h3>Methods</h3><p>Adult flukes were recovered from the lungs of a tiger (<i>Panthera tigris</i>) (<i>n</i> = 10), a jungle cat (<i>Felis chaus</i>) (<i>n</i> = 6) and a domesticated dog (<i>Canis familiaris</i>) (<i>n</i> = 4). ITS-2, partial 28 SrDNA and partial <i>cox</i>1 gene sequences were amplified by polymerase chain reaction and a concatenated phylogenetic tree was constructed with these three marker sequences. Intra-species and inter-species genetic distances were calculated, and haplotype network analysis was performed using partial <i>cox</i>1 gene.</p><h3>Results</h3><p>Phylogenetic analysis based on the concatenated tree showed that Kerala isolates formed <i>P. westermani</i> complex with other isolates of <i>P. westermani</i> from India and from other countries. The Kerala isolates were genetically closer to metacercaria morphotype 2 of <i>P. westermani</i>. However, the genetic distance was higher among Indian isolates, indicating significant genetic variation among <i>P. westermani</i> within the complex. In addition, India also exhibited the highest number of haplotypes (<i>n</i> = 8).</p><h3>Conclusions</h3><p>Concatenated phylogenetic analysis of the Indian isolates of <i>P. westermani</i> show them to form <i>P. westermani</i> complex. The parasite exhibits high genetic distance with a large number of haplotypes. Further epidemiological studies are needed to understand its genetic variability. No sub-populations have been recognized in <i>P. westermani</i> based on the presented molecular data.</p></div>","PeriodicalId":6932,"journal":{"name":"Acta Parasitologica","volume":"70 3","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.2,"publicationDate":"2025-05-16","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144073885","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"New Species of Oochoristica Lühe, 1898 (Cestoda: Linstowiinae) from Sceloporus ochoterenae (Reptilia: Sauria: Phrynosomatidae) in Central Mexico: Approach to the Phylogenetic Relationships of the Genus with Molecular Evidence","authors":"Andrés Velázquez-Brito,&nbsp;Luis García-Prieto,&nbsp;Uriel Garduño-Montes de Oca,&nbsp;Virginia León-Règagnon","doi":"10.1007/s11686-025-01046-7","DOIUrl":"10.1007/s11686-025-01046-7","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Purpose</h3><p>To describe a new species of <i>Oochoristica</i> Lühe, 1898, an anoplocephalid cestode included in Linstowiinae (Cyclophyllidea), parasitizing <i>Sceloporus ochoterenae</i> Smith in Zoyatepec, Guerrero, Mexico.</p><h3>Methods</h3><p>All specimens were fixed with 4% hot formalin. A morphologic study was made using stained material under light microscopy. Some specimens of a second species (collected in <i>Sceloporus grammicus</i> from La Malinche, Tlaxcala, fixed in 100% ethanol, were also stained and studied morphologically; others were subject of DNA sequencing and phylogenetic analysis.</p><h3>Results</h3><p>A new species of this genus is described of the intestine of an endemic lizard <i>S. ochoterenae</i>. <i>Oochoristica guerreroensis</i> n. sp. shares a distinctive morphological feature (mature proglottids wider than long) with only 13 species of genus. However, <i>O. guerreroensis</i> n. sp. can be differentiated by: strobilar size (4.29–7.62 mm), number of testes (48–55), shape of vitellaria (ovoid) and number of ovarian sublobes (3–5), as well as by their geographical distribution (Neotropical region of Mexico), and type of host. Based on molecular evidence of nuclear 28<i>S rDNA</i> gene, we analyze for the first time the phylogenetic position of one species of <i>Oochoristica</i> (<i>O. scelopori</i>) within Anoplocephalidae as well as their relationships with other genera of Cyclophyllidea.</p><h3>Conclusions</h3><p>The new species is the first described in association with a phrynosomatid lizard in the Neotropical realm, and the ninth recorded in Mexico. Molecular data obtained in our study seem to confirm the independence <i>Oochoristica</i> and <i>Mathevotaenia</i>.</p></div>","PeriodicalId":6932,"journal":{"name":"Acta Parasitologica","volume":"70 3","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.2,"publicationDate":"2025-05-16","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1007/s11686-025-01046-7.pdf","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144073884","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Correction: Microcotyle tazeroutiae n. sp. (Monogenea: Microcotylidae) from the Gills of the Boarfish Capros aper Linnaeus, 1758 (Teleostei: Caproidae) Off the Algerian Coast, Western Mediterranean","authors":"Amira Meriem Rebah,&nbsp;Delphine Gey,&nbsp;Zouhour El Mouna Ayadi","doi":"10.1007/s11686-025-01032-z","DOIUrl":"10.1007/s11686-025-01032-z","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":6932,"journal":{"name":"Acta Parasitologica","volume":"70 3","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.2,"publicationDate":"2025-05-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143938416","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Rapid Cultivation of Acanthamoeba spp. Isolated from Environmental Samples Using Nanocomposite and Leech Saliva on Non-Nutrient Agar","authors":"Alican Bilden,&nbsp;Erdal Ertaş,&nbsp;Merve Kahraman,&nbsp;Servet Tural,&nbsp;Bilsen Tural,&nbsp;Muttalip Çiçek","doi":"10.1007/s11686-025-01053-8","DOIUrl":"10.1007/s11686-025-01053-8","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objective</h3><p><i>Acanthamoeba</i> spp. are microscopic single-celled protozoa commonly found in the environment, particularly in soil, water sources, and dust. These parasites are associated with serious infections such as <i>Acanthamoeba</i> keratitis and granulomatous amebic encephalitis. Recent epidemiological studies have highlighted a significant increase in <i>Acanthamoeba</i> keratitis cases. Current treatment methods are generally effective only in the early stages and show limited success when applied late, emphasizing the urgent need for more effective therapeutic and cultivation approaches. </p><p>The laboratory cultivation of <i>Acanthamoeba</i> spp. is traditionally performed using axenic or monoxenic cultures. However, these methods have notable drawbacks, including the loss of virulence, reduced encystment capability, errors in bacterial inoculation, and time-consuming procedures. To address these limitations, nanotechnological approaches have been proposed. Nanotechnology offers innovative solutions for developing new drug formulations and diagnosing, preventing, and treating various diseases.</p><h3>Methods</h3><p>In this study, we developed humic acid-coated magnetic nanocomposites capable of adhering to the cyst wall of <i>Acanthamoeba</i> spp. without causing damage. Experimental results demonstrated that these nanocomposites bind with high affinity to macromolecules on the cyst wall, facilitating the aggregation of parasites in the pellet. Additionally, biologically enriched leech saliva was incorporated into the culture medium to enhance the growth rate. Leech saliva provides a rich source of organic matter and bioactive molecules that promote cell division. The addition of leech saliva resulted in a significant increase in the growth rate of <i>Acanthamoeba</i> spp., with maximum growth density observed at 120 h.</p><h3>Results</h3><p>These findings indicate that humic acid-coated magnetic nanocomposites and leech saliva -enriched culture media offer a promising alternative to conventional methods for the rapid and efficient cultivation of <i>Acanthamoeba</i> spp. Our study concludes that humic acid-coated magnetic nanocomposites effectively concentrate parasites, increasing their quantitative density, while leech saliva provides a nutrient-rich environment that stimulates trophozoite feeding and division.</p><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>This study is noteworthy for presenting an innovative and effective method for the rapid laboratory cultivation and potential treatment of <i>Acanthamoeba</i> spp.</p></div>","PeriodicalId":6932,"journal":{"name":"Acta Parasitologica","volume":"70 3","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.2,"publicationDate":"2025-05-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1007/s11686-025-01053-8.pdf","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143938415","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Pathological Fracture of the Tibia Due to Lytic Bone Lesion Caused by Hydatidosis with Absence of Systemic Involvement: A Case Report and Review of Literature","authors":"Nashwah Samir AlHariry,&nbsp;Enas A. El Saftawy,&nbsp;Wesam Gamal Abousenna,&nbsp;Mansour A. Alghamdi,&nbsp;Basma Emad Aboulhoda","doi":"10.1007/s11686-025-01041-y","DOIUrl":"10.1007/s11686-025-01041-y","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><p>This report raises attention to hydatidosis in bone as a neglected lytic osseous disease.</p><h3>Case Presentation</h3><p>The authors reported a case of a 49-year-old female who presented with pain and swelling in the right upper leg. X-ray suggested a lytic lesion in the right proximal tibia. Adenocarcinoma metastasis was suspected, yet, the investigations revealed negative Positron emission tomography (PET) scan metastatic work-up and negative alpha-fetoprotein, Cancer Antigen (CA) 15.3, CA 19.9, CA125, and Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA). The histopathological evaluation of the extracted core biopsy showed a granulomatous reaction with reactive fibrosis. Immune reactive CD68 cells were recorded in the epithelioid macrophages and foreign body giant cells. Four months later, the patient was presented with a pathological fracture in the upper right leg. Surprisingly, the histopathological evaluation of the Hematoxylin and Eosin sections and the cytological assessment reported pathognomonic structures for hydatid in the form of foreign body giant cells engulfing laminated hyaline eosinophilic material and a scarce number of hooks. The absence of cellular atypia excluded malignancy. Periodic acid schiff highlighted the pathognomonic laminated fragments and granulation tissue. Masson trichrome staining emphasized collagen deposition.</p><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>Osseous hydatidosis is a neglected disease that may mimic lytic bone tumors. Vague radiological features and scarce parasite-derived structure in histopathology may misinterpret the disease. Raising attention to bone hydatidosis among clinicians is recommended.</p></div>","PeriodicalId":6932,"journal":{"name":"Acta Parasitologica","volume":"70 3","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.2,"publicationDate":"2025-05-09","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143930125","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Evaluation of a Rapid Immuno-Chromatographic Test for Schistosoma japonicum in Indonesia","authors":"Gunawan,&nbsp;Joko Prastowo,&nbsp;Wisnu Nurcahyo,&nbsp;Pandji Wibawa Dhewantara,&nbsp;Anis Nur Widayati,&nbsp;Hayani Anastasia,&nbsp; Samarang,&nbsp;Made Agus Nurjana","doi":"10.1007/s11686-025-01039-6","DOIUrl":"10.1007/s11686-025-01039-6","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objective</h3><p>to evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of a rapid diagnostic test based on immunochromatography for detecting IgG antibodies in serum against <i>Schistosoma japonicum</i> in Indonesia.</p><h3>Methods</h3><p>Blood and stool samples were collected from an endemic area in Indonesia to compare and evaluate the applicability of using a JDBIOTECH Schi IgG Rapid Test.</p><h3>Results</h3><p>Based on the research results, out of the total of 226 individuals, 38 individuals were declared positive for <i>S. japonicum</i> infection by microscopic examination, in which 36 individuals were declared positive while 2 individuals were declared negative for the infection by JDBIOTECH Schi IgG Rapid Test. Out of the 226 samples, 190 individuals were declared negative for <i>S. japonicum</i> infection by microscopic examination, 186 individuals were declared negative, while 4 individuals were declared positive for the infection by JDBIOTECH Schi IgG Rapid Test. The sensitivity and specificity of the JDBIOTECH Schi IgG Rapid Test were 94.44% (95% CI 81.34–99.32%) and 97.89% (95% CI 94.70–99.42%), respectively.</p><h3>Conclusions</h3><p>Evaluation of JDBIOTECH Schi IgG Rapid Test for the detection of <i>Schistosoma japonicum</i> in Indonesia has yielded promising results. The test exhibited high sensitivity, correctly identifying 34 out of 36 confirmed cases. Furthermore, it demonstrated excellent specificity by accurately identifying 186 out of 190 uninfected individuals. These findings highlight the substantial potential of the JDBIOTECH Schi IgG Rapid Test as a valuable tool for the early diagnosis of <i>Schistosoma japonicum</i> infections within the Indonesian population.</p></div>","PeriodicalId":6932,"journal":{"name":"Acta Parasitologica","volume":"70 3","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.2,"publicationDate":"2025-05-06","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143913839","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Alveolar Echinococcosis: Is Non-Radical Liver Resection a Game Changer in the Current Treatment Approach to Patients with Advanced Alveolar Echinococcosis Disease? Single Center Experience of Poland","authors":"Małgorzata Polańska-Płachta,&nbsp;Magdalena Czerwińska,&nbsp;Małgorzata Ostrowska,&nbsp;Jerzy Stefaniak,&nbsp;Jerzy A. Polański","doi":"10.1007/s11686-025-01040-z","DOIUrl":"10.1007/s11686-025-01040-z","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><p>Alveolar echinococcosis is parasitic disease caused by <i>Echinococcus multilocularis</i> and spread endemically in the northern hemisphere. Although alveolar echinococcosis is considered a rare disease, with approximately 18,000 new cases diagnosed annually, it continues to present significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. Alveolar echinococcosis affects the liver through slow, asymptomatic infiltration over many years. At the time of diagnosis, approximately 70% of cases are not eligible for radical lesion resection. The aim of the study was to evaluate whether non-radical surgery increases patients’ survival rates.</p><h3>Methods</h3><p>We conducted a prospective analysis on patients diagnosed with alveolar echinococcosis in years 1995–2017 who underwent liver resection. Age, gender, mass of lesion, extensive nature of the operation (radical vs. conservative) and surgical procedures were collected. Mortality was analyzed.</p><h3>Results</h3><p>Mean resected lesions’ weight was statistically higher in non-radically resected group 1396,00 g (SD ± 845,39) compared with radically resected group 549,43 g (SD ± 364,27), <i>p</i> = 0,004. The type of surgical treatment did not significantly affect patient survival.</p><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>The complete lesion resection (in combination with albendazole) is only a curative therapy, if feasible. In advance stages when radical resection is not feasible, the reductive or debulking surgery should be done for symptoms’ alleviation and quality of life improvement.</p></div>","PeriodicalId":6932,"journal":{"name":"Acta Parasitologica","volume":"70 3","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.2,"publicationDate":"2025-04-29","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143888795","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Unveiling β-Tubulin Isotype-1 Polymorphisms in Haemonchus contortus from Pakistani Livestock: New Insights into Benzimidazole Resistance and Protein Structure Analysis","authors":"Mashal Khalid,&nbsp;Kiran Afshan,&nbsp;Ghulam Narjis,&nbsp;Sabika Firasat,&nbsp;Umer Chaudhry","doi":"10.1007/s11686-025-01037-8","DOIUrl":"10.1007/s11686-025-01037-8","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><p><i>Haemonchus contortus</i>, a gastrointestinal hematophagous parasitic nematode, causes substantial economic losses to the livestock sector across the globe. The widespread use of benzimidazoles in livestock has contributed greatly to the evolution of resistance in <i>H. contortus</i>. To effectively tackle this expanding threat, regular and diligent monitoring is required to identify and manage resistance, ensuring that treatment techniques continue to be effective.</p><h3>Objectives</h3><p>This study aimed to investigate the genetic and structural variations in β-tubulin isotype-1 of <i>Haemonchus contortus</i> isolated from goats and cattle in Pakistan, with a focus on understanding the mechanisms underlying resistance to benzimidazole. </p><h3>Methods</h3><p>A total of 150 goats and 100 cattle from four abattoirs in Rawalpindi were tested for <i>Haemonchus contortus</i>. Faecal samples were cultured for L3 larvae, DNA was isolated, and whole genome sequencing was performed. β-tubulin isotype 1 gene sequence was extracted. Phylogenetic tree with reference genome from GenBank, and protein models were generated via ExPaSy and I-TASSER and validated with SAVESv.6.0.</p><h3>Results</h3><p>Six genotypes of <i>Haemonchus contortus</i> isotype1 β-tubulin gene, each with a length of 385 base pairs were identified. The E198A SNP was the most prevalent mutation among the larvae of <i>Haemonchus contortus</i> collected from cattle (62.5%) and goats (50%), followed by the F200Y which was detected in 6 (37.5%) larvae collected from cattle and 9 (37.5%) larvae from goats. SNP F167Y was not identified in any of the samples. The phylogenetic analysis showed that the isolates were closely related to <i>H. contortus</i> from China (KX258930) and <i>H. contortus × H. placei</i> hybrids from Pakistan. Six genotypes of β-tubulin isotype 1 gene were translated into three haplotypes based on protein sequences: wild type/susceptible, E198A-resistant/mutant, and F200Y-resistant/mutant. Structural analysis revealed high model quality and confidence, with the E198A and F200Y resistant/mutants exhibiting different characteristics, with refined quality factors exceeding 91%.</p><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>The study demonstrated alterations in tubulin structure and function are crucial for understanding anthelmintic resistance patterns. These findings help for improving therapeutic approaches, comprehending resistance mechanisms, and promoting sustainable parasite control.</p></div>","PeriodicalId":6932,"journal":{"name":"Acta Parasitologica","volume":"70 3","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.2,"publicationDate":"2025-04-29","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143888550","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Impact of Soluble Schistosomal Egg Antigens on Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus in an Induced Diabetic Mouse Model","authors":"Mohammed Y. Shakra,&nbsp;Morsy R. M. Geneedy,&nbsp;Haitham Kh. Ahmad,&nbsp;Moamen A.I. Mazen,&nbsp;Mostafa E. Mostafa","doi":"10.1007/s11686-025-01035-w","DOIUrl":"10.1007/s11686-025-01035-w","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Purpose</h3><p>This study aimed to investigate the effects of <i>Schistosoma mansoni</i> soluble egg antigen (SEA) on type 1 diabetes (T1D) in a streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mouse model.</p><h3>Methods</h3><p>The study examined the effects of Schistosoma mansoni soluble egg antigen (SEA) on type 1 diabetes (T1D) using a mouse model, involving 50 mice divided into three groups: a healthy control group receiving phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), a diabetic control group with STZ-induced T1D also receiving PBS, and a diabetic treated group receiving SEA. Biochemical and immunological analyses were conducted on blood samples collected at four and eight weeks post-treatment to assess metabolic markers like blood glucose and insulin levels, as well as immune markers including TNF-α, TGF-β, FOXp3, IL-4, and IL-10.</p><h3>Results</h3><p>SEA treatment induced early immune modulation at four weeks and sustained metabolic and immunological improvements at eight weeks, marked by increased regulatory T cells (elevated FOXp3), activation of immunosuppressive pathways (increased TGF-β), reduced inflammation (decreased TNF-α), a shift to an anti-inflammatory Th2 response (elevated IL-4 and IL-10), improved glycemic control, lower blood glucose levels, and higher insulin levels.</p><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>SEA exhibits potential therapeutic effects against T1D by modulating immune responses, promoting Th2 polarization, and increasing regulatory T cell activity. This immunological shift reduces systemic inflammation and enhances glycemic control.</p></div>","PeriodicalId":6932,"journal":{"name":"Acta Parasitologica","volume":"70 3","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.2,"publicationDate":"2025-04-29","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1007/s11686-025-01035-w.pdf","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143888549","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Treating Hymenolepiasis with Pumpkin Seeds: Effect on Ileum Histology and Dwarf Tapeworm Morphology","authors":"Majed H. Wakid,&nbsp;Anan O. Alhawiti,&nbsp;Alaa S. Banjar,&nbsp;Rowaid M. Qahwaji,&nbsp;Hattan S. Gattan,&nbsp;Maimonah S. Alghanmi,&nbsp;Haifaa A. Mahjoub,&nbsp;Mohammad F. Al-Refai","doi":"10.1007/s11686-025-01042-x","DOIUrl":"10.1007/s11686-025-01042-x","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><p><i>Hymenolepis nana</i> is a worldwide intestinal tapeworm parasite that mainly infects children due to a lack of awareness and hygiene. Recently, Praziquantel (<i>PZQ</i>), the drug of choice for treating hymenolepiasis, has shown serious side effects. This study aimed to evaluate histological changes in the ileum of the small intestine caused by hymenolepiasis in an experimental animal model and to assess the efficacy of pumpkin seeds extract (PSE) in eliminating the parasite at different periods compared to medicinal treatment with <i>PZQ</i> drug. In addition, we investigated the morphological alterations in adult dwarf tapeworms after treatment with pumpkin seed extract.</p><h3>Methods</h3><p>The histological examination of the small intestine was conducted among four experimental mice groups: normal non-infected control group, infected untreated group, infected and <i>PZQ</i> treated group, and the fourth group was infected and treated with PSE.The morphological investigations were performed on mice from the infected untreated group and those from the infected and treated with pumpkin seed extract group.</p><h3>Results</h3><p>Treatment with PSE showed a noticeable preservation of the normal structure of villi and crypts with a normal thickness of the muscle layer. In addition, there was a marked decrease in the number of mononuclear leukocytes and goblet cells. This effect was observed to be duration dependent. The size of the mature segment in the untreated control group ranged from 342.85 to 415.38 μm, and 14.28–26.92 μm in length and width, respectively. The gravid segments revealed a uterus with eggs subjugating the entire area in the segment, with size ranges from 373.33 to 576.92 μm in length and 46.66–76.92 μm in width. The treated group with PSE showed mature segments with size ranged from 261.53 to 346.42 μm in length and 7.69–21.42 μm in width, while the gravid segments ranged from 30.76 to 50 μm and 414.28–492.30 μm, in width and length, respectively. The treatment with pumpkin seed extract tenanted the worm growth through an apparent reduction in the sizes of proglottids, deformity of the lateral margins and gonads, loss of internal structure, and reduction of egg production.</p><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>The results of this study clearly reveal the efficacy of pumpkin seeds on <i>H. nana</i> infection, a promising, safe, inexpensive natural alternative anthelmintic therapy, with more superior and significant results in improving and protecting mucosal integrity in comparison to <i>PZQ</i>.</p></div>","PeriodicalId":6932,"journal":{"name":"Acta Parasitologica","volume":"70 3","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.2,"publicationDate":"2025-04-29","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1007/s11686-025-01042-x.pdf","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143888551","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}