The role of scorpion, Leiurus quinquestriatus, and bee, Apis mellifera crude venoms in controlling schistosomal activity of Swiss Albino mice

Abstract

The harmful effects of schistosomiasis come primarily from the presence of adult stages and egg deposition in the blood vessels and tissues of the host which activates immunologic granulomatous reaction causing liver injury and fibrosis. Studies revealed promising results of natural extracted venoms against schistosomiasis. We aimed to evaluate the ability of scorpion Leiurus quinquestriatus (SV) and bee, Apis mellifera (BV) venoms to diminish worm load, reduce liver injury and initiate recovery following S. mansoni injury. Sixty Swiss albino mice were divided into two groups: a negative control group (n=10), and a second group exposed to 65 ± 5 S. mansoni cercariae via subcutaneous injection (n=50). Then classified into 5 subgroups (10 mice each); one was left as a positive control, and the other four subgroups were respectively administered with (SV 0.1 mg/kg/week, SV then BV 0.1 mg each/kg/week, SV and BV 0.1 mg each/ kg/week mixed dose, and SV then BV 0.2 mg each/kg/week respectively), two doses for two weeks. After the 9th week, mice were sacrificed; liver, and kidney functions, histopathological examinations, and worm parameters were assessed. The treated groups showed significant enhancements in the liver and kidney functions, supported by the liver histopathological sections. Worm burden was reduced with increased dead ova count, reflected in the granuloma disorganized formation. The administration of scorpion and bee venom has a considerable role against S. mansonai infection and activity; moreover, it also has capability to can restore the liver functionality after liver injury.