Protective effect of snail secretion filtrate in an in vitro model of mastitis

Bovine mastitis is inflammation of the mammary gland mainly caused by bacterial infections, with relevant economic costs and implications related to antibiotic resistance. In light of the increasing demand for sustainable therapies, this study evaluated the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of snail secretion filtrate (SSF) from the species Helix Aspersa Muller in an in vitro model of bovine mastitis.

Bovine mammary cells (MAC-T) stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) were used to induce the inflammatory process. The cells were then treated with SSF to analyse its effects on oxidative stress, production of inflammatory cytokines (tumour necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6 and interleukin-1β), expression of enzymes associated with inflammation such as inducible nitric oxide (iNOS) and cyclo-oxygenase-2 (COX-2) and cytoprotection as heme-oxygenase 1 (HO-1).

Snail secretion filtrate significantly reduced the levels of reactive oxygen species and the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines induced by LPS. Furthermore, it positively modulated the expression of iNOS and COX-2, reducing their levels and increasing the expression of HO-1, suggesting a cytoprotective action.

Snail secretion filtrate was effective in reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in an in vitro model of bovine mastitis. The results suggest the potential use of SSF as a natural and sustainable remedy, in line with the One Health approach.