Neopterin as a Biomarker in Liver Fibrosis of Schistosoma Mansoni

Background and Aim of the Work : The hepatic form of the schistosomiasis disease was associated with granuloma, which is associated with collagen deposition, fibrosis of the liver and hepatosplenomegaly in severe cases. Neopterin, a pteridine derivative, is produced by activated macrophages and represents a marker of cell-mediated immunity in immune activation. Bees create propolis by collecting a resinous sap from trees. Propolis is a complex contains terpenes, benzoic, caffeic, cinnamic and phenolic acids, and it is also high in flavonoids. The aim of this study was to evaluate the level of neopterin as a biomarker in liver fibrosis caused by Schistosoma mansoni infection and to confirm the bee propolis as a natural anti-parasitic agent. Study Design: Experimental design classified into several groups, including; negative control, positive control, prophylactic and treated groups. Biochemical marker for liver fibrosis such as neopterin levels and liver function tests, immunological and parasitological investigations for Schistosomiasis, were done. Results: Neopterin levels, AST, ALT and GGT activities, bilirubin (total and direct) concentrations and anti-schistosomal antibody titre were increased in the infected non-treated group when compared to the control group. While, they were decreased in the treated and prophylactic groups when compared to the infected non-treated group. There were reduction in the serum albumin concentrations in the infected non-treated group in comparison with the normal group. While, serum albumin concentrations were elevated in the groups treated and prophylacted with bee propolis when compared to the infected non-treated and control groups, respectively. Conclusion: Neopterin was a biomarker correlate with the extent and activity of the liver fibrosis and was also useful to monitor during therapy. Bee propolis had liver protective and improved liver functions in schistosomiasis.