Effects of kolaviron on lymphocytes proliferation, expression of toll like receptor-2 and vascular endothelial growth factor-c genes in wuchereria bancrofti infected blood

Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Lymphatic filariasis caused by Wuchereria bancrofti is a debilitating disease affecting millions of people in tropical and subtropical regions. The immune response to the parasite plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of the disease. Kolaviron, a natural biflavonoid complex extracted from Garcinia kola seeds, has been shown to possess various biological activities including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In this study, we investigated the effects of kolaviron on lymphocytes proliferation, expression of toll-like receptor-2 (TLR-2), and vascular endothelial growth factor-C (VEGF-C) genes in W. bancrofti infected blood. Peripheral blood samples were collected from individuals infected with W. bancrofti, and lymphocytes were isolated and cultured in the presence or absence of kolaviron. Cell proliferation was assessed using MTT assay, and gene expression levels of TLR-2 and VEGF-C were analyzed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Our results showed that kolaviron treatment significantly inhibited lymphocyte proliferation in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, kolaviron downregulated the expression of TLR-2 and VEGF-C genes in W. bancrofti infected lymphocytes compared to untreated cells. The modulation of TLR-2 expression by kolaviron suggests a potential mechanism by which this natural compound may exert its immunomodulatory effects in lymphatic filariasis. TLR-2 is known to play a crucial role in the recognition of microbial pathogens and activation of innate immune responses. By downregulating TLR-2 expression, kolaviron may dampen the inflammatory response associated with W. bancrofti infection, thereby reducing tissue damage and disease progression. Additionally, the suppression of VEGF-C expression by kolaviron highlights its potential anti-lymphangiogenic effects, which could help in inhibiting the formation of new lymphatic vessels and limiting the spread of the parasite. Overall, our findings suggest that kolaviron has the ability to modulate lymphocyte proliferation and gene expression in W. bancrofti infected blood. Further studies are warranted to elucidate the detailed mechanisms underlying the immunomodulatory effects of kolaviron and its potential as a therapeutic agent for lymphatic filariasis.