Phytochemical Characterization, Molecular Docking Analysis, and In Vitro Antischistosomal Activity of Capsicum annuum Methanolic Extract

Abstract

Human schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease affecting millions worldwide, highlighting the need for affordable alternative therapies. This study evaluated the in vitro antischistosomal activity of the Capsicum annuum methanolic extract against adult Schistosoma mansoni. Tegumental alterations were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), while potential molecular targets were investigated using STITCH network analysis, molecular docking, and in silico pharmacokinetic prediction. Concentrations of C. annuum extract (20-320 µg/mL) and praziquantel (0.2 µg/mL) were evaluated for time-dependent worm mortality at 1, 3, 12, 24, 48, and 72 h post-treatment. Praziquantel induced 100% mortality within 24 h, whereas the dose (320 µg/mL) caused 50% mortality at 24 h and complete mortality at 48 h. Docking analysis suggested apoptosis-related proteases and a Ser/Thr kinase as putative molecular targets that warrant further experimental validation. These findings demonstrate that C. annuum methanolic extract possesses promising antischistosomal activity against S. mansoni.