Identification of small molecule lead compounds for visceral leishmaniasis using a novel ex vivo splenic explant model system.

ABSTRACT:

Background

New drugs are needed to treat visceral leishmaniasis (VL) because the current therapies are toxic, expensive, and parasite resistance may weaken drug efficacy. We established a novel ex vivo splenic explant culture system from hamsters infected with luciferase-transfected Leishmania donovani to screen chemical compounds for anti-leishmanial activity.

Methodology/principal findings

THIS MODEL HAS ADVANTAGES OVER IN VITRO SYSTEMS IN THAT IT: 1) includes the whole cellular population involved in the host-parasite interaction; 2) is initiated at a stage of infection when the immunosuppressive mechanisms that lead to progressive VL are evident; 3) involves the intracellular form of Leishmania; 4) supports parasite replication that can be easily quantified by detection

SUBMITTER: Osorio Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3039689 | biostudies-literature | 2011 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature