Resveratrol nanoemulsion as a promising scolicidal agent: in vitro efficacy and cytotoxicity compared with conventional Resveratrol

Background: Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is a parasitic disease caused by the larval stage of Echinococcus granulosus , and there is an urgent need for safe and effective scolicidal agents for use during surgery. This study investigated the scolicidal efficacy of a prepared Resveratrol nanoemulsion (RNE) and compared it with conventional Resveratrol. Materials and Methods: The RNE was characterized using dynamic light scattering and transmission electron microscopy, revealing a particle size of 267 nm, a zeta potential of −1.9 mV, and uniform spherical droplets with smooth surfaces. Scolicidal activity was evaluated for both RNE and Resveratrol at concentrations of 125, 250, 350, and 500 µg/mL over exposure times of 10, 60, 120, and 180 minutes. Eosin exclusion and hemolysis assays were used to confirm scolicidal and cytotoxic effects. Results: RNE produced significant scolicidal activity at all tested concentrations and exposure times compared with the control group ( P < 0.05). In contrast, Resveratrol at 125 and 250 µg/mL did not show a significant effect after 10 minutes relative to the control. One-way analysis of variance demonstrated that RNE was significantly more effective than Resveratrol alone under all examined conditions ( P < 0.05). Conclusion: Overall, the findings indicate that RNE has promising potential as a safe and potent scolicidal agent. Nevertheless, further in vivo investigations are required to confirm its efficacy and safety before clinical application in CE management.