Effects of glucocorticoids in Leishmania major infection
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Date
2015
Authors
Osero, B. O.
Mosigisi, A.
Ogeto, T. K.
Mugambi, R.
Ingonga, J.
Karanja, R. M.
Gicheru, M. M.
Anjili, C.
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Abstract
Leishmania parasites activate NF-κB which induces Th2 expression and inactivates Th1 genes
thus subverting the host defense response and promotes the survival and development of the
parasite in macrophages. Macrophages were treated artificially with glucocorticoids and
incubated with Leishmania promastigotes. Interleukin 1 β, Tumor necrosis factor- α and
inhibitory nitric oxide synthase gene levels were measured using real time PCR and parasite
development monitored in vitro. Tumor necrosis factor- α and nitric oxide synthase genes were
down-regulated and Interleukin 1 β upregulated in macrophages treated with dexamethasone
and hydrocortisone drugs when compared to those treated with lipopolysaccharide and
untreated. Dexamethasone treated macrophages had significantly low number of amastigotes
compared to hydrocortisone and lipopolysaccharide (p=0.0006). Dexamethasone showed high
reduction of infection rates in macrophages as compared to hydrocortisone and
lipopolysaccharide treated macrophages, however not significant (p=0.054). With further
clinical studies in humans, dexamethasone may be used in the control of leishmaniasis.
Keywords: Glucocorticoids, NF-kB, infection rates, amastigotes, macrophages
Description
Research Article
Keywords
Glucocorticoids, NF-kB, Infection rates, Amastigotes, Macrophages
Citation
International Journal of Fauna and Biological Studies, 2015