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Fasciola Hepatica Extract Induces Cell Death of Mammalian Cells

Stephanie Ferreira1, Ruben Fernandes1,2, Monica C Botelho2,3

  • 1Escola Superior de Saúde, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Portugal.

Anti-Infective Agents
|August 7, 2018
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Fasciola hepatica extracts unexpectedly killed cancer cells in lab tests. This discovery suggests the parasite could potentially be developed for novel cancer therapies, offering new hope for treating liver cancer.

Area of Science:

  • Parasitology
  • Cancer Biology
  • Drug Discovery

Background:

  • Fascioliasis, caused by liver flukes like *Fasciola hepatica*, is a neglected tropical disease affecting millions globally.
  • While other liver flukes (*O. viverrini*, *C. sinensis*) are linked to cholangiocarcinoma, *F. hepatica* has not been associated with cancer.
  • No known causative link exists between *F. hepatica* infection and liver cancer (cholangiocarcinoma).

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the biological effects of *Fasciola hepatica* extracts on mammalian cells.
  • To explore the potential of *F. hepatica* as a novel therapeutic agent in cancer treatment.

Main Methods:

  • Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) cells were exposed to *F. hepatica* extracts.
  • Cell proliferation was quantified using an MTS assay measuring mitochondrial activity.
  • Observed cytotoxic effects of the parasite extracts on cancer cells were documented.

Main Results:

  • *Fasciola hepatica* extracts induced significant cell death in treated CHO cells.
  • Unexpectedly high mortality rates were observed, indicating potent cytotoxic properties.
  • The study identified a novel anti-cancer effect of *F. hepatica*.

Conclusions:

  • The cytotoxic effects of *F. hepatica* extracts on cancer cells warrant further investigation.
  • This parasite shows potential as a source for developing new cancer therapies.
  • Further research could establish *F. hepatica* as a medically significant trematode pathogen for cancer treatment.
Keywords:
C. sinensisChine Hamster Ovary (CHO)Fasciola hepaticaO. viverrinicholangiocarcinomamammalian cells

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