Resolution of systemic complications in Schistosoma mansoni-infected mice by concomitant treatment with praziquantel and Schisandrin B

Ho Yin Pekkle Lam, Po Ching Cheng, Shih Yi Peng

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

3 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Schistosomiasis is a tropical parasitic disease, in which the major clinical manifestation includes hepatosplenomegaly, portal hypertension, and organs fibrosis. Clinically, treatment of schistosomiasis involves the use of praziquantel (PZQ) and supportive care, which does not improve the patient's outcome as liver injuries persist. Here we show the beneficial effects of using PZQ in combination with Schisandrin B (Sch B). Concomitant treatment with PZQ and Sch B resulted in a significant improvement of hepatosplenomegaly and fibrosis, compared with single-agent treatment. We also demonstrated that PZQ-Sch B treatment ameliorates injuries in the lungs and intestine better than the sole use of PZQ or Sch B. In addition, PZQ-Sch B treatment improves the survival of S. mansoni-infected mice, and the treatment combination yields better therapeutic outcomes, as indicated by a partial improvement in neurological function. These results were accompanied by a reduction in neurological injuries. Collectively, we suggest that PZQ-Sch B concomitant therapy may be useful to alleviate schistosomiasis-associated liver injuries and prevent systemic complications.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)275-284
Number of pages10
JournalInternational Journal for Parasitology
Volume52
Issue number5
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Apr 2022

Keywords

  • Concomitant therapy
  • Fibrosis
  • Praziquantel
  • Schisandrin B
  • Schistosoma mansoni
  • Schistosomiasis

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Parasitology
  • Infectious Diseases

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