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Chitosan nanoparticles improve the effectivity of miltefosine against Acanthamoeba

Alireza Latifi1, Fariba Esmaeili2, Mehdi Mohebali1,3

  • 1Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.

Plos Neglected Tropical Diseases
|March 25, 2024
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Miltefosine-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (MF-CS-NPs) show enhanced efficacy against Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) parasites. This nano-formulation reduces miltefosine toxicity, offering a promising strategy for treating this sight-threatening corneal infection.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Nanotechnology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) is a severe corneal infection with significant visual impairment risk.
  • Early treatment is crucial for visual outcomes in AK.
  • Chitosan nanoparticles offer potential for enhanced drug delivery in ocular infections.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To synthesize and evaluate miltefosine-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (MF-CS-NPs) for Acanthamoeba treatment.
  • To assess the efficacy and safety of MF-CS-NPs against Acanthamoeba in vitro.
  • To investigate the potential of nano-chitosan as a carrier for ocular drug delivery.

Main Methods:

  • Miltefosine-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (MF-CS-NPs) were prepared using ionic gelation.
  • Particle size, zeta-potential, and drug release profiles were characterized.
  • Cytotoxicity, hemolytic activity, ocular irritation, and amoebicidal activity (IC50) were evaluated in vitro and in vivo.

Main Results:

  • MF-CS-NPs exhibited sustained drug release with optimal particle size (46.61 nm) and zeta-potential (21.8 mV).
  • MF-CS-NPs demonstrated significantly lower cytotoxicity and ocular irritation compared to free miltefosine.
  • The nano-formulation showed enhanced amoebicidal activity against both Acanthamoeba trophozoites and cysts.

Conclusions:

  • MF-CS-NPs are more effective and less toxic than free miltefosine for treating Acanthamoeba keratitis.
  • Nano-chitosan serves as an effective carrier, reducing miltefosine's cytotoxicity.
  • Further animal studies are warranted to explore clinical applications of MF-CS-NPs in ocular drug delivery.

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