Sambucus ebulus extract stimulates cellular responses in cutaneous leishmaniasis

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Immunology
• Parasitology

Background:

• Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a significant global health concern caused by Leishmania major.
• Current treatments have limitations, necessitating the exploration of novel therapeutic agents.
• Herbal medicines offer potential as alternative treatments for leishmaniasis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the antileishmanial efficacy of Sambucus ebulus aquatic extract.
• To evaluate the impact of the extract on immune responses in Leishmania major-infected mice.
• To determine the therapeutic potential of Sambucus ebulus for CL treatment.

Main Methods:

• In vitro antileishmanial activity assessed using MTT assay and parasite rescue and transformation assay.
• In vivo efficacy evaluated by measuring footpad swelling and parasite load in infected BALB/c mice.
• Immune response modulation analyzed by quantifying IFN-γ, IL-4, nitric oxide (NO), and arginase (ARG) levels.

Main Results:

• Sambucus ebulus extract significantly reduced Leishmania major promastigote and amastigote viability without macrophage toxicity.
• In treated mice, lesion size, parasite burden, and ARG levels decreased significantly.
• Increased IFN-γ/IL-4 ratio and NO levels indicated a shift towards a Th1 immune response.

Conclusions:

• Sambucus ebulus aquatic extract demonstrates potent antileishmanial activity and favorable safety profile.
• The extract effectively modulates host immune responses, promoting a Th1-biased immunity crucial for CL clearance.
• Sambucus ebulus presents a promising natural therapeutic candidate for cutaneous leishmaniasis treatment.