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Effect of D-propranolol on growth and motility of flagellate protozoa
M J Farthing1, P M Inge, R M Pearson
1Department of Gastroenterology, St. Bartholomew's Hospital, London, U.K.
Abstract:
Propranolol inhibits sperm motility and has been considered as a spermicide contraceptive. In view of the inhibitory effects of D-propranolol on sperm flagellar activity, we have investigated its effect on motility and growth of two human flagellate, protozoan parasites. D-propranolol had a dose-dependant inhibitory effect on motility of Giardia lamblia and Trichomonas vaginalis with ED50s of 0.38 and 0.66 mmol/l respectively, D-propranolol also inhibited growth of both parasites with ED50s of 0.18 and 0.23 mmol/l for Giardia and Trichomonas respectively. D-propranolol, unlike DL-propranolol is devoid of the unwanted effects of beta-blockade, and thus may be a useful antiprotozoal drug particularly after vaginal placement when it is concentrated in vaginal mucus.
Insights
D-propranolol effectively inhibits the motility and growth of Giardia lamblia and Trichomonas vaginalis. This compound shows potential as a targeted antiprotozoal agent, especially for vaginal infections.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Pharmacology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Propranolol is known to inhibit sperm motility, suggesting spermicidal properties.
- D-propranolol, a specific isomer, lacks the beta-blockade side effects of the racemic mixture (DL-propranolol).
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of D-propranolol on the motility and growth of two human flagellate protozoan parasites: Giardia lamblia and Trichomonas vaginalis.
- To evaluate D-propranolol as a potential antiprotozoal agent, particularly for vaginal applications.
Main Methods:
- Dose-dependent assays were performed to determine the inhibitory effects of D-propranolol on parasite motility.
- Growth inhibition assays were conducted to assess the impact of D-propranolol on parasite proliferation.
- Effective Doses 50 (ED50) were calculated for both motility and growth inhibition.
Main Results:
- D-propranolol demonstrated a dose-dependent inhibition of motility for both Giardia lamblia (ED50 = 0.38 mmol/l) and Trichomonas vaginalis (ED50 = 0.66 mmol/l).
- D-propranolol significantly inhibited the growth of Giardia lamblia (ED50 = 0.18 mmol/l) and Trichomonas vaginalis (ED50 = 0.23 mmol/l).
Conclusions:
- D-propranolol exhibits potent antiprotozoal activity against Giardia lamblia and Trichomonas vaginalis in vitro.
- The targeted action and lack of systemic side effects suggest D-propranolol's potential as a topical antiprotozoal drug, especially for vaginal infections due to concentration in vaginal mucus.