Anthelmintic Activity of Carica papaya Leaf Extracts: Insights from In Vitro and In Silico Investigations.

Introduction: Helminthiasis remains a major global health concern. Exploring natural alternatives due to drug resistance and synthetic drug side effects has become increasingly urgent.

Method: This study investigates the anthelmintic potential of Carica papaya leaf extracts (CPLE) against Allolobophora caliginosa, along with elucidating the underlying structural alterations and molecular interactions. Carica papaya underwent methanolic extraction. Gas chromatography- mass spectrometry analysis revealed 11 active phytochemical compounds within CPLE. The anthelmintic activity was evaluated against A. caliginosa, with CPLE demonstrating efficacy comparable to albendazole. Light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy depicted structural modifications in worms exposed to CPLE, characterized by reduced size, uniform shrinkage, and increased cuticle thickness.

Result: Molecular docking studies with proteins Ascaris lumbricoides β-tubulin and Trichuris trichiura β-tubulin revealed potential binding interactions of CPLE compounds, notably Hexadecanoic acid, 2-hydroxy-1-(hydroxymethyl) ethyl ester, and Albendazole oxide. Conclusión: These findings suggest the anthelmintic efficacy of CPLE and provide insights into its mode of action at the molecular level.