Experimental Investigation of Silver Nanoparticles Dose Response for Larvicidal Activity Against Trichellnolosis In vitro

Abstract

Trichinellosis is a parasitic disease caused by the nematode Trichinella spiralis that affects pigs globally, posing a risk to livestock and to human health. Trichinellosis is acquired by consuming undercooked or raw infected meat containing encysted larvae from pigs and other reservoir hosts. As the disease cannot be effectively treated with known medication, disinfection plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy, and hygienic environment on farms. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have been proposed as an alternative approach due to their ability to inhibit microorganisms. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of AgNPs against T. spiralis larvae. AgNPs were applied at concentrations of 100,200, 300, and 400 ppm for 4, 8, 16, and 24 hr to 45 larvae. The number of deaths was recorded, and the morphology of larvae was examined using H&E staining. The results showed that AgNPs with a size of 132.9 nm were effective against T. spiralis at a concentration of 100 ppm resulting in the lowest number of deaths (5 larvae or 11.11%) at 16 hr, while a concentration of 400 ppm of AgNPs achieved the highest number of deaths (40 larvae or 88.88%) at 24 hr. Additionally, the study revealed degenerative changes affecting the cuticle of AgNPs-treated T. spiralis with the destruction of stichocyte cells in the esophagus and the genital primordium cells which are reproductive cells. The results demonstrate the effective anthelmintic activity of synthesized AgNPs against Trichinella in vitro model, offering a promising alternative treatment for the elimination of the parasite.