BACKGROUND

The current research aims to investigate the anthelmintic effects and cellular mechanisms induced by camphene (CP), a natural monoterpene found in certain herbs, against hydatid cysts and protoscoleces (PSCs) of Echinococcus granulosus.

METHODS

The anthelmintic properties of CP were examined using the eosin exclusion assay on PSCs. The effects of CP on the expression levels of apoptotic and DNA damage-related genes in PSCs were evaluated, along with its impact on the plasma membrane (PM) and its ability to induce the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The in vivo efficacy of CP, administered at doses of 20, 40, and 80 mg/kg/day for 28 days, was assessed in mice infected with hydatid cysts by measuring the quantity, dimensions, and weight of the cysts, as well as analyzing serum levels of inflammatory cytokines.

RESULTS

Results indicated that CP significantly decreased the viability of PSCs both in vitro and ex vivo (p < 0.001) compared to the control group. A notable upregulation of apoptotic genes (caspase-3 and caspase-9) and genes associated with DNA damage was observed (p < 0.001). CP treatment also enhanced plasma membrane permeability and ROS generation (p < 0.001). Furthermore, CP resulted in a dose-dependent reduction in the number, size, and weight of hydatid cysts, as well as in the serum concentrations of TNF-α and IL-1β, with no significant changes in the serum levels of biomarkers related to liver and kidney function.

CONCLUSION

Recent research has demonstrated the promising in vitro and ex vivo effects of CP on hydatid cyst PSCs. Additionally, the study highlighted the in vivo potential of CP in controlling hydatid cysts within a murine model, attributing this efficacy to its anti-inflammatory properties. However, further research is necessary to elucidate the specific mechanisms of action and to evaluate its effectiveness in clinical trials, which may facilitate the application of these nanoparticles in the treatment and management of cystic echinococcosis.