Histological study on the possible therapeutic role of bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells in a model of Schistosoma mansoni infestation of spleen of mice

Abstract

Background: Hepatosplenomegaly is a characteristic feature of Schistosoma infestation. However, splenic injury had received little scientific researches than the well-known liver injury. Moreover, the role of bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs) in treatment of splenic injury due to schistosomiasis has not yet been investigated. Aim of the work: To explore the structural changes which might occur to spleen during chronic infestation with schistosomiasis and the possible therapeutic role of (BMMSCs) in ameliorating these changes. Materials & Methods: Fifty female Swiss Albino mice, weighing about 25 gm were classified into group A (control group) and group B (experimental group). Animals in group A were equally subdivided into subgroup AI which served as donors for stem cells obtained from their bone marrow, and subgroup AII which were injected with phosphate buffer saline (PBS) and used to collect control spleen samples. Whereas, animals in group B, were all infected with S. mansoni cercariae (60/ mouse) by subcutaneous injection, then subdivided into three subgroups; subgroup BI sacrificed after eight weeks, subgroup BII treated intraperitoneally with 2x106 MSCs suspended in PBS per mouse at eighth week after infestation hen scarified four weeks later, and subgroup BIII allowed to survive for twelve weeks without treatment then sacrificed. Results: Histological examination of spleen sections of subgroup BI showed structural changes including deposition of eggs which were surrounded by inflammatory cells and collagen fibers. Subgroup BIII showed more extensive structural changes. This was associated with significant increase in collagen fibers and TNF-α immunological reaction compared to control. However, (BMMSCs) treated subgroup BII illustrated improvement of splenic structure. Conclusions: Chronic Schistosoma mansoni infestation has a deleterious effect on the structure of the spleen. Bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells have a relevant therapeutic potential on the spleen of an animal model of Schistosoma mansoni.

'Silymarin' a Potential Treatment Targeting Hepatic Fibrosis of Schistosomiasis

“…Therefore, treating schistosomiasis hepatic fibrosis remains challenging. Moreover, some studies reported that PZQ induced hemorrhage in the host's lung tissue [9]. Several other studies documented that (PZQ)-resistant in some Schistosoma strains [9].…”

“…Moreover, some studies reported that PZQ induced hemorrhage in the host's lung tissue [9]. Several other studies documented that (PZQ)-resistant in some Schistosoma strains [9]. Therefore, it is vital to find effective alternative drugs to control the infection and prevent side effects.…”

“…Group II (positive control group) infected untreated group (chronic infection): killed after 18 weeks P.I. [9,10].…”