Immunological, anti-inflammatory, and anti-oxidant effects of Fig and Olive leaves extracts nanoparticles against Schistosoma mansoni in C57BL/6 mice

Schistosomiasis, caused by worms of the genus Schistosoma, especially S. mansoni, remains a major global health challenge, with over 200 million people infected annually. Notably, sterile immunity does not naturally develop, and drug selection pressure has intensified due to the extensive use of praziquantel (PZQ) in endemic areas for nearly four decades, in addition to the emergence of resistance and lack of sterile immunity. This study investigated the effects of nanoparticle-loaded with natural plant extracts-Ficus carica (Fig) and Olea europaea (Olive)-administered in vivo at all S. mansoni developmental stages: cercariae (G4), schistosomulae (G5), immature worms (G6), and mature worms (G7). The primary objectives were to determine which stage was most susceptible to be eliminated in infected C57BL/6 mice. Fig and Olive were used in this study based on the oath in the wholly Quran. The results demonstrated a progressive improvement from G4 (Lowest) through G7 (Best) in immunological parameters, oxidative stress markers, inflammatory and apoptotic profiles, comet assay results, and liver function tests.