Biogenic selenium nanoparticles: trace element with promising anti-toxoplasma effect

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology and Parasitology
• Biologically synthesized selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs)
• Opportunistic infections

Background:

• Toxoplasmosis, caused by *Toxoplasma gondii*, is an opportunistic infection with limited treatment options due to side effects of current drugs.
• Selenium compounds exhibit anti-parasitic properties via antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory mechanisms.
• Environmentally benign selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) present a novel therapeutic avenue.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of biologically synthesized selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) against acute toxoplasmosis.
• To assess the anti-parasitic effects of SeNPs *in vivo* using a mouse model.

Main Methods:

• Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) were synthesized using *Streptomyces fulvissimus* and characterized.
• Acute toxoplasmosis was induced in Swiss albino mice infected with *Toxoplasma* RH strain.
• Mice were treated with SeNPs, co-trimoxazole, or left untreated; survival rates and parasite counts were analyzed.

Main Results:

• SeNPs treatment significantly increased survival time in infected mice compared to untreated controls.
• A minimum parasite count was observed in the livers and spleens of SeNPs-treated mice.
• Electron microscopy revealed tachyzoite structural damage, including deformities, vacuolization, and lysis, upon SeNPs exposure.

Conclusions:

• Biologically synthesized SeNPs demonstrate significant potential as a natural therapeutic agent against *Toxoplasma gondii* *in vivo*.
• SeNPs offer a promising alternative treatment for toxoplasmosis, mitigating the limitations of current chemotherapeutic options.