(Sw.) DC.induces apoptotic-like programmed cell death in via over production of oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction and ATP depletion.

BACKGROUND

Leishmaniasis is endemic in more than 60 countries with a large number of mortality cases. The current chemotherapy approaches employed for managing the leishmaniasis is associated with severe side effects. Therefore there is a need to develop effective, safe, and cost affordable antileishmanial drug candidates.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

This study was designed to evaluate the antileishmanial activity of a leaves extract (PJLME) towards the parasites.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

PJLME was evaluated for its cytotoxicity against the parasites and the mouse macrophage cells. Further, various experiments like ROS assay, mitochondrial membrane potential assay, annexin v assay, cell cycle assay, and caspase 3/7 assay were performed to understand the mechanism of cell death. Phytochemical profiling of was performed by utilizing HPTLC and GC-MS analysis.

RESULTS

PJLME demonstrated antileishmanial activity at a remarkably lower concentration of IC 6.5 μg/mL. Of note, interestingly PJLME IC concentration has not demonstrated cytotoxicity against the mouse macrophage cell line. Performed experiments confirmed ROS inducing potential of PJLME which adversely affected the mitochondrial membrane potential and caused loss of mitochondrial membrane potential and thereby ATP levels. PJLME also arrested the cell cycle and induced apoptotic-like cell death in PJLME treated promastigotes.

CONCLUSION

The results clearly established the significance of as an effective and safe natural resource for managing visceral leishmaniasis. The findings can be used as a baseline reference for developing novel leads/formulations for effective management of visceral leishmaniasis.