Marine organism sulfated polysaccharides exhibiting significant antimalarial activity and inhibition of red blood cell invasion by Plasmodium

• DOI: 10.1038/srep24368
• Publication Date: 2016-04-13T09:31:55Z
• Authors: Joana Marques; Eduardo Vilanova; Paulo A. S. Mourão; Xavier Fernàndez-...
• Keywords: Plasmodium (life cycle)

Abstract The antimalarial activity of heparin, against which there are no resistances known, has not been therapeutically exploited due to its potent anticoagulating activity. Here, we have explored the antiplasmodial capacity heparin-like sulfated polysaccharides from sea cucumbers Ludwigothurea grisea and Isostichopus badionotus , red alga Botryocladia occidentalis marine sponge Desmapsamma anchorata . In vitro experiments demonstrated for most compounds significant inhibition Plasmodium falciparum growth at low-anticoagulant concentrations. This was found operate through erythrocyte invasion by likely mediated a coating parasite similar that observed heparin. vivo four-day suppressive tests showed several improved survival yoelii -infected mice. one animal treated with I. fucan parasitemia reduced 10.4% undetectable levels Western blot analysis revealed presence antibodies P. antigens in plasma. retarded ensuing prolonged exposure immune system, can be design new therapeutic approaches malaria where heparin-related low could play dual role as drugs potentiators responses.