Research Abstract
Abstract
Background This study aimed to investigate the antiparasitic and anti-infammatory potential of pumpkin seed oil
in mice infected with Trichinella spiralis by demonstrating its impact on MMP-9 expression and pathogenesis dur‑
ing the intestinal and muscular phases.
Results In this study, 100 mice were divided into fve groups: an infected group, a pumpkin seed oil-treated
group (1.5 mg/kg BW, administered three times per week), an albendazole-treated group, a native control group,
and a pumpkin oil control group. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis of the pumpkin seed oil revealed
a broad spectrum of biologically active compounds. The pumpkin seed oil treatment led to a signifcant reduction
in the parasite burden, with a 75% decrease in adult worms and a 66% decrease in encysted larvae. Additionally,
the infected animals treated with pumpkin oil exhibited a marked reduction in intestinal infammation, character‑
ized by a progressive increase in goblet cells. The number of encysted larvae in the diaphragm and muscle tissues
was also signifcantly decreased. Furthermore, pumpkin seed oil treatment signifcantly reduced MMP-9 levels
in both intestinal and muscular tissues, highlighting its potential to attenuate infammation.
Conclusion These fndings underscore the efectiveness of pumpkin seed oil as anti-infammatory and antiparasitic
agent.
Research Date
Research Department
Research Member
Research Publisher
BMC veterinary research
Research Vol
20
Research Year
2024
Research Pages
419