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Published on: February 28, 2025
Antiparasitic drugs: in vitro tests against nematophagous fungi
G F Ferreira1, T M Freitas1, C L Gonçalves1
1Microbiology and Parasitology Department, Institute of Biology, Universidade Federal de Pelotas - UFPel, Pelotas, RS, Brazil.
Abstract:
The use of biological agents has been intensified in recent years against eggs and larvae of gastrointestinal nematodes as an alternative control method in pasture plant health management, with the concomitant use with antiparasitic drugs still occurring. The aim of this study was to test the in vitro activity of the following antiparasitic drugs: Ivermectin and albendazole against the following nematophagous fungi: Paecilomyces fumosoroseus, Paecilomyces lilacinus and Paecilomyces variotii. The agar diffusion test was performed using an initial concentration of 0.0016g/mL of each drug, after solidification of the culture medium containing the drug concentration each nematophagous fungi was inoculated. The results showed that in a concentration of 80μg/mL, the fungal growth decreased, however, with the concentration of 160μg/mL, there was no fungal growth in both drugs, compared to the control, which indicates an inhibition in the development of the nematophagous fungi studied when they come in contact with ivermectin and albendazole.
Insights
Antiparasitic drugs ivermectin and albendazole inhibit the growth of beneficial nematophagous fungi Paecilomyces species. This finding is crucial for integrated pasture plant health management strategies.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Mycology
- Veterinary Parasitology
Background:
- Biological control agents, including nematophagous fungi, are increasingly used for gastrointestinal nematode management in pastures.
- Concurrent use of biological agents and antiparasitic drugs necessitates understanding their interactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the in vitro inhibitory effects of ivermectin and albendazole on three species of nematophagous fungi: Paecilomyces fumosoroseus, Paecilomyces lilacinus, and Paecilomyces variotii.
Main Methods:
- Agar diffusion tests were conducted using initial drug concentrations of 0.0016g/mL.
- Fungal growth inhibition was assessed at drug concentrations of 80μg/mL and 160μg/mL compared to a control group.
Main Results:
- Both ivermectin and albendazole demonstrated inhibitory effects on fungal growth.
- A concentration of 80μg/mL reduced fungal growth, while 160μg/mL completely inhibited the development of all tested Paecilomyces species.
Conclusions:
- Ivermectin and albendazole exhibit significant in vitro inhibitory activity against Paecilomyces fumosoroseus, Paecilomyces lilacinus, and Paecilomyces variotii.
- These findings highlight potential negative impacts of these antiparasitic drugs on beneficial nematophagous fungi, important for integrated pest management.
