Novel microfilaricidal activity of nanosilver
Sunil K Singh1, Kalyan Goswami, Richa D Sharma
1Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India.
International Journal of Nanomedicine
|March 7, 2012
Summary
Silver nanoparticles show promise in treating lymphatic filariasis by inducing apoptosis in microfilariae. This research highlights nanosilver as a potential therapeutic agent against this debilitating parasitic disease.
Area of Science:
- Nanotechnology
- Parasitology
- Drug Discovery
Background:
- Lymphatic filariasis is a significant global health issue with inadequate treatment options.
- Current antifilarial drugs have limitations, necessitating novel therapeutic strategies.
- Silver nanoparticles are known for their antibacterial properties and ability to induce apoptosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the microfilaricidal efficacy of silver nanoparticles against Brugia malayi.
- To explore the role of apoptosis as a mechanism for antifilarial drug development.
- To evaluate nanosilver as a potential therapeutic agent for lymphatic filariasis.
Main Methods:
- Assessed the effect of silver and gold nanoparticles on microfilariae of Brugia malayi.
- Utilized microfilarial motility assays, trypan blue exclusion tests, and polymerase activity studies.
- Employed differential staining and electron microscopy to examine ultrastructural changes.
Main Results:
- Silver nanoparticles, but not gold, significantly reduced microfilarial motility.
- Evidence indicated apoptotic cell death in microfilariae induced by nanosilver.
- The 50% lethal dose of nanosilver was higher than the complete inhibitory concentration, suggesting a potential therapeutic window.
Conclusions:
- This study provides the first conclusive evidence for apoptosis as a novel antifilarial drug design strategy.
- Nanosilver demonstrates potential as a valid lead compound for antifilarial therapeutics.
- Nanosilver's efficacy at low concentrations and induction of apoptosis position it as a promising drug adjuvant for lymphatic filariasis, with a favorable safety profile.
