Methanolic Extract of <i>Rhizophora mangle</i> (Rhizophoraceae) Leaves: Phytochemical Characterization and Anthelmintic Evaluation against <i>Schistosoma mansoni</i>

Abstract

Rhizophora mangle is commonly used in traditional medicine to treat infections, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. This study aimed to analyze the phytochemical profile of the methanolic extract of R. mangle leaves (MELRm) and evaluate its in vitro schistosomicidal activity against Schistosoma mansoni as well as its cytotoxicity. Plant material was collected in Itamaracá City, Pernambuco, Brazil. The extract was analyzed using UV/Vis spectrophotometry and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The motility, mortality, and cell viability of adult worms were assessed in a schistosomicidal assay, while cytotoxicity was evaluated through a colorimetric assay with MTT on RAW 264.7 cells. The primary compounds identified in MELRm were phenolic compounds. In the schistosomicidal assay, all concentrations of MELRs induced changes in the motility of adult worms. At a concentration of 400 μg/mL, MELRs resulted in 56.25% mortality after 72 h of incubation. After 120 h, mortality rates of 75%, 62.5%, and 50% were observed at MELRm concentrations of 400, 200, and 100 μg/mL, respectively. No eggs were detected at any MELRm concentration. MELRs did not show cytotoxicity towards RAW 264.7 cells at the concentrations tested. These results indicate that MELRs demonstrate schistosomicidal activity in vitro, suggesting they are promising candidates for in vivo studies.

Keywords

• phytotherapy
• antischistosomal agent
• schistosomiasis mansoni
• toxic potential praziquantel