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Green Synthesized Gold Nanoparticles Ameliorate the Toxoplasma gondii Infection in Immunosuppressed Mice
Leila Masoori1, Ruaa Majid Khazaal2, Marzieh Rashidipour1
1Razi Herbal Medicines Research Center, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran.
Background:
In immunocompromised individuals, Toxoplasma gondii infection can disseminate rapidly, causing severe cerebral and visceral complications. This study aimed to synthesize gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) via green synthesis and evaluate their therapeutic efficacy and mechanisms in immunosuppressed murine models of toxoplasmosis.
Methods:
Mice were immunosuppressed using dexamethasone prior to infection with the Tehran strain of T. gondii. AuNPs were administered orally at 0.5 and 1 mg/kg, alone or combined with pyrimethamine (PYR; 10 mg/kg), in a 0.2 mL volume for 14 days. Survival rates were monitored daily. Brain cyst number and size were assessed microscopically. Oxidative stress markers, cytokine levels, and bradyzoite surface antigen 1 (BAG1) gene expression were analyzed by real-time PCR.
Results:
Synthesized AuNPs exhibited cubic morphology with an average size of 20-30 nm. Combined AuNPs-PYR treatment significantly improved survival and reduced brain cyst burden (P=0.001). Treatment markedly decreased malondialde-hyde (MDA) levels while enhancing glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity (P<0.01). Gene expression analysis demonstrated down-regulation of BAG1 and IL-4 (<1.3-fold) alongside upregulation of IFN-γ and IL-12 (>4-fold). Hepatic and renal biomarkers were also significantly improved.
Conclusion:
AuNPs, particularly in combination with PYR, demonstrate significant efficacy against toxoplasmosis in immunosuppressed murine models. Clinical trials are warranted to further assess the safety and therapeutic potential of this combination approach.
