Kadarkarai Murugan - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Kadarkarai Murugan

Research paper thumbnail of Efficacy and side effects of bio-fabricated sardine fish scale silver nanoparticles against malarial vector Anopheles stephensi

Scientific Reports, 2021

Mosquitoes are a great menace for humankind since they transmit pathogenic organisms causing Mala... more Mosquitoes are a great menace for humankind since they transmit pathogenic organisms causing Malaria, Dengue, Chikungunya, Elephantiasis and Japanese encephalitis. There is an urgent need to discover new and novel biological tools to mitigate mosquito-borne diseases. To develop bioinsecticides through newly developed nanotechnology is another option in the present research scenario. In this study we synthesize and characterize sardine fish scales with silver nitrate by adopting various instrumental techniques such as UV- and FTIR-spectroscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray (EDAX), X-ray diffraction analyses (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Toxicity bioassays were conducted with young developmental stages of mosquito vectors. Significant mortality appeared after different life stages of mosquito vectors (young larval and pupal instars were exposed to the nanomaterials). LC50 values were 13.261 ppm for young first instar larvae and 32.182 ppm for pupae. Feeding and predatory po...

Research paper thumbnail of Exploring genetic variation in haplotypes of the filariasis vector Culex quinquefasciatus (Diptera: Culicidae) through DNA barcoding

Acta Tropica, 2017

Highlights  DNA barcoding was used to explore genetic variation of Cx. quinquefasciatus from 88 ... more Highlights  DNA barcoding was used to explore genetic variation of Cx. quinquefasciatus from 88 sites  We evaluated the effectiveness of two gene markers, CO1 and 16S rRNA  Null substitutions were lower in CO1 if compared to 16S rRNA  TCS haplotype network revealed 14 distinct clusters  Intra-and inter-population polymorphism was calculated among global and Indian lineages

Research paper thumbnail of Neem cake as a promising larvicide and adulticide against the rural malaria vector Anopheles culicifacies (Diptera: Culicidae): a HPTLC fingerprinting approach

Natural product research, Jan 24, 2016

Mosquitoes are insects of huge public health importance, since they act as vectors for important ... more Mosquitoes are insects of huge public health importance, since they act as vectors for important pathogens and parasites. Here, we focused on the possibility of using the neem cake in the fight against mosquito vectors. The neem cake chemical composition significantly changes among producers, as evidenced by our HPTLC (High performance thin layer chromatography) analyses of different marketed products. Neem cake extracts were tested to evaluate the ovicidal, larvicidal and adulticidal activity against the rural malaria vector Anopheles culicifacies. Ovicidal activity of both types of extracts was statistically significant, and 150 ppm completely inhibited egg hatching. LC50 values were extremely low against fourth instar larvae, ranging from 1.321 (NM1) to 1.818 ppm (NA2). Adulticidal activity was also high, with LC50 ranging from 3.015 (NM1) to 3.637 ppm (NM2). This study pointed out the utility of neem cake as a source of eco-friendly mosquitocides in Anopheline vector control pro...

Research paper thumbnail of Impact of dengue virus (serotype DENV-2) infection on liver of BALB/c mice: A histopathological analysis

Tissue & cell, Jan 23, 2016

In this research, we characterized the histopathological impact of dengue virus (serotype DENV-2)... more In this research, we characterized the histopathological impact of dengue virus (serotype DENV-2) infection in livers of BALB/c mice. The mice were infected with different doses of DENV-2 via intraperitoneal injection and liver tissues were processed for histological analyses and variation was documented. In the BALB/c mouse model, typical liver tissues showed regular hepatocyte architecture, with normal endothelial cells surrounding sinusoid capillary. Based on histopathological observations, the liver sections of BALB/c mice infected by DENV-2 exhibited a loss of cell integrity, with a widening of the sinusoidal spaces. There were marked increases in the infiltration of mononuclear cells. The areas of hemorrhage and micro- and macrovesicular steatosis were noted. Necrosis and apoptosis were abundantly present. The hallmark of viral infection, i.e., cytopathic effects, included intracellular edema and vacuole formation, cumulatively led to sinusoidal and lobular collapse in the liv...

Research paper thumbnail of Magnetic nanoparticles are highly toxic to chloroquine-resistant Plasmodium falciparum, dengue virus (DEN-2), and their mosquito vectors

Parasitology Research, 2016

A main challenge in parasitology is the development of reliable tools to prevent or treat mosquit... more A main challenge in parasitology is the development of reliable tools to prevent or treat mosquito-borne diseases. We investigated the toxicity of magnetic nanoparticles (MNP) produced by Magnetospirillum gryphiswaldense (strain MSR-1) on chloroquine-resistant (CQ-r) and sensitive (CQ-s) Plasmodium falciparum, dengue virus (DEN-2), and two of their main vectors, Anopheles stephensi and Aedes aegypti, respectively. MNP were studied by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy. They were toxic to larvae and pupae of An. stephensi, LC 50 ranged from 2.563 ppm (1st instar larva) to 6.430 ppm (pupa), and Ae. aegypti, LC 50 ranged from 3.231 ppm (1st instar larva) to 7.545 ppm (pupa). MNP IC 50 on P. falciparum were 83.32 μg ml −1 (CQ-s) and 87.47 μg ml −1 (CQ-r). However, the in vivo efficacy of MNP on Plasmodium berghei was low if compared to CQ-based treatments. Moderate cytotoxicity was detected on Vero cells post-treatment with MNP doses lower than 4 μg ml −1. MNP evaluated at 2-8 μg ml −1 inhibited DEN-2 replication inhibiting the expression of the envelope (E) protein. In conclusion, our findings represent the first report about the use of MNP in medical and veterinary entomology, proposing them as suitable materials to develop reliable tools to combat mosquito-borne diseases.

Research paper thumbnail of Toxicity on Dengue Mosquito Vectors Through Myristica fragrans-Synthesized Zinc Oxide Nanorods, and Their Cytotoxic Effects on Liver Cancer Cells (HepG2)

Journal of Cluster Science, 2016

Dengue is an arbovirus mainly vectored by Aedes mosquitoes. Its prevention and control depends to... more Dengue is an arbovirus mainly vectored by Aedes mosquitoes. Its prevention and control depends to effective vector control measures. Cancer causes millions of death every year. Most of the anticancer drugs have high toxicity and low specificity of action, leading to systemic toxicity and severe side effects. Thus, the development of effective tools is a priority. We fabricated zinc oxide nanoparticles using the Myristica fragrans extract as a reducing and stabilizing agent. Nanoparticles were studied using UV-vis spectrophotometry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, zeta potential, dynamic light scattering, energy dispersive X-ray analysis, field emission scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. ZnO nanorods were highly effective against A. aegypti young instars, with LC 50 ranging from 3.44 (larva I) to 14.63 ppm (pupa). Nanorods showed adult LC 50 of 15.004 ppm. ZnO nanorods exhibited dose-dependent cytotoxicity against human hepato-cancer cells (HepG2). After 48 and 24 h of incubation, the IC 50 were 20 and 22 lg/ml, respectively. Nanorods triggered the induction of apoptosis. Overall, this study highlights that the possibility to employ M. fragrans-synthesized ZnO nanorods in mosquito control, as well as in the development of novel chemotherapeutic agents with reduced systemic toxicity.

Research paper thumbnail of Fabrication of nano-mosquitocides using chitosan from crab shells: Impact on non-target organisms in the aquatic environment

Ecotoxicology and environmental safety, Jan 23, 2016

Mosquitoes are arthropods of huge medical and veterinary relevance, since they vector pathogens a... more Mosquitoes are arthropods of huge medical and veterinary relevance, since they vector pathogens and parasites of public health importance, including malaria, dengue and Zika virus. Currently, nanotechnology is considered a potential eco-friendly approach in mosquito control research. We proposed a novel method of biofabrication of silver nanoparticles (AgNP) using chitosan (Ch) from crab shells. Ch-AgNP nanocomposite was characterized by UV-vis spectroscopy, FTIR, SEM, EDX and XRD. Ch-AgNP were tested against larvae and pupae of the malaria vector Anopheles stephensi obtaining LC50 ranging from 3.18 ppm (I) to 6.54 ppm (pupae). The antibacterial properties of Ch-AgNP were proved against Bacillus subtilis, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Salmonella typhi, while no growth inhibition was reported in assays conducted on Proteus vulgaris. Concerning non-target effects, in standard laboratory considtions the predation efficiency of Danio rerio zebrafishes was 68.8% and 61.6% against I and II in...

Research paper thumbnail of Mosquito Larvicidal Activity of Broussonetia papyrifera Compound Marmesin by Blocking Protein AeSCP-2, Docking Strategies, and Combined Effect of Copepod Megacyclops formosanus Against Dengue Vector Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae)

Journal of Marine Science and Technology, Dec 1, 2013

Mosquito-borne diseases that have an economic impact create losses in commercial and labor output... more Mosquito-borne diseases that have an economic impact create losses in commercial and labor outputs, particularly in countries with tropical and subtropical climates. The emergence of resistance to synthetic insecticides is a challenge to mosquito control. Cyclopoid copepods are important predators in many aquatic ecosystems and have been successfully used as biological agents to control mosquito larvae. For this study, we examined the larvicidal activity of the copepod Megacyclops formosanus in combination with the compound marmesin (which was purified from the methanol crude extract of the plant stem bark of Broussonetia papyrifera) against Aedes aegypti larvae. Their larvicidal activity and in silico docking analysis regarding the inhibition of the binding cholesterol sterol carrier protein-2 (AeSCP-2) against A. aegypti were evaluated. The significant larvicidal potential was recorded after the marmesin plant compound treatment against the dengue vector A. aegypti. Larval mortality was observed after 24 h of exposure. The LC 50 and LC 90 of marmesin against the first to fourth instar larvae and pupae were 0.104, 0.115, 0.137, 0.176, and 0.353 ppm, and 0.255, 0.270, 0.297, 0.365, and 0.643 ppm, respectively. This study showed that marmesin and copepods can be used effectively for mosquito larvae control programs. This is an ideal eco-friendly approach for controlling A. aegypti larvae.

Research paper thumbnail of Eco-friendly drugs from the marine environment: spongeweed-synthesized silver nanoparticles are highly effective on Plasmodium falciparum and its vector Anopheles stephensi, with little non-target effects on predatory copepods

Environmental science and pollution research international, Jan 16, 2016

Mosquitoes act as vectors of devastating pathogens and parasites, representing a key threat for m... more Mosquitoes act as vectors of devastating pathogens and parasites, representing a key threat for millions of humans and animals worldwide. The control of mosquito-borne diseases is facing a number of crucial challenges, including the emergence of artemisinin and chloroquine resistance in Plasmodium parasites, as well as the presence of mosquito vectors resistant to synthetic and microbial pesticides. Therefore, eco-friendly tools are urgently required. Here, a synergic approach relying to nanotechnologies and biological control strategies is proposed. The marine environment is an outstanding reservoir of bioactive natural products, which have many applications against pests, parasites, and pathogens. We proposed a novel method of seaweed-mediated synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNP) using the spongeweed Codium tomentosum, acting as a reducing and capping agent. AgNP were characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, scanning electron micros...

Research paper thumbnail of Mosquitocidal Activity of Hedychium coronarium Rhizome Extract and Copepod Megacyclops formosanus for the Control of Dengue Vector Aedes aegypti

Journal of Marine Science and Technology, Dec 1, 2013

The bio-efficacy of Hedychium coronarium Rhizome extract and copepods Megacyclops formosanus, wer... more The bio-efficacy of Hedychium coronarium Rhizome extract and copepods Megacyclops formosanus, were tested against first to fourth-instar larvae and pupae of dengue Vector Aedes aegypti under laboratory conditions. Different solvent extracts of H. coronarium, combined with copepod M. formosanus showed considerable mortality against A. aegypti. The median lethal concentration value (LC 50) observed for the larvicidal and pupicidal activities against mosquito vector species A. aegypti value were 38.59, ppm; no mortality was observed in the control group. This study was also initiated to test the predatory efficiency of copepod against different larval instars and predatory efficiency was noticed at the laboratory and efficiency was higher after the combined treatment with H. coronarium extract. This is an ideal eco-friendly approach for the control of vector control programs.

Research paper thumbnail of Efficacy of larvicidal and pupicidal properties of Acalypha alnifolia Klein ex Willd. (Euphorbiaceae) leaf extract and Metarhizium anisopliae (Metsch.) against Culex quinquefasciatus Say. (Diptera: Culicidae)

Journal of Biopesticides

The present study was carried out to establish the properties of Acalypha alnifolia leaf extract ... more The present study was carried out to establish the properties of Acalypha alnifolia leaf extract and microbial insecticide, Metarizhium anisopliae on larvicidal and pupicidal activity against the lymphatic filarial vector, Culex quinquefasciatus. The methanol extract of A. alnifolia leaf showed larvicidal and pupicidal effects after 24 h of exposure; with, the highest larval and pupal mortality was recorded against the first-to fourth-instar larvae and pupae of values LC 50 = 5.67% 1 st instar, 6.62% 2 nd instar, 7.53% 3 rd instar and 9.05% 4 th instar, and 10.20% pupae respectively, and microbial insecticide, M. anisopliae against the first to fourth instar larvae and pupae with LC 50 values 1 st instar was 10.53%, 2 nd instar was 15.57%, 3 rd instar was 23.06%, and 4 th instar was 31.36%, and pupae was 42.54%, respectively. Moreover, combined treatment of values of LC 50 values of 1 st instar was 3.73%, 2 nd instar was 4.72%, 3 rd instar was 5.55%, and 4 th instar was 7.66%, and pupae was 9.16%, respectively. No mortality was observed in the control. The results shows the leaves extract of A. alnifolia and the entomopathogenic fungi, M. anisopliae are candidates for controlling lymphatic filarial vector, C. quinquefasciatus. Hence, A. alnifolia and M. anisopliae can be considered for eco-friendly vector control programs.

Research paper thumbnail of Studies on the effect of Sida Acuta and Vetiveria Zizanioides against the malarial vector, Anopheles Stephensi and malarial parasite, Plasmodium Berghei

Research paper thumbnail of Tackling the growing threat of dengue: Phyllanthus niruri-mediated synthesis of silver nanoparticles and their mosquitocidal properties against the dengue vector Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae)

Parasitology Research, 2015

Mosquitoes are vectors of devastating pathogens and parasites, causing millions of deaths every y... more Mosquitoes are vectors of devastating pathogens and parasites, causing millions of deaths every year. Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral infection found in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. Recently, transmission has strongly increased in urban and semiurban areas, becoming a major international public health concern. Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) is the primary vector of dengue. The use of synthetic insecticides to control Aedes mosquitoes lead to high operational costs and adverse nontarget effects. In this scenario, eco-friendly control tools are a priority. We proposed a novel method to synthesize silver nanoparticles using the aqueous leaf extract of Phyllanthus niruri, a cheap and nontoxic material. The UV-vis spectrum of the aqueous medium containing silver nanostructures showed a peak at 420 nm corresponding to the surface plasmon resonance band of nanoparticles. SEM analyses of the synthesized nanoparticles showed a mean size of 30-60 nm. EDX spectrum showed the chemical composition of the synthesized nanoparticles. XRD highlighted that the nanoparticles are crystalline in nature with face-centered cubic geometry. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) of nanoparticles exhibited prominent peaks 3,327.63, 2,125.87, 1,637.89, 644.35, 597.41, and 554.63 cm −1. In laboratory assays, the aqueous extract of P. niruri was toxic against larval instars (I-IV) and pupae of A. aegypti. LC 50 was 158.24 ppm (I), 183.20 ppm (II), 210.53 ppm (III), 210.53 ppm (IV), and 358.08 ppm (pupae). P. niruri-synthesized nanoparticles were highly effective against A. aegypti, with LC 50 of 3.90 ppm (I), 5.01 ppm (II), 6.2 ppm (III), 8.9 ppm (IV), and 13.04 ppm (pupae). In the field, the application of silver nanoparticles (10×LC 50) lead to A. aegypti larval reduction of 47.6 %, 76.7 % and 100 %, after 24, 48, and 72 h, while the P. niruri extract lead to 39.9 %, 69.2 % and 100 % of reduction, respectively. In adulticidal experiments, P. niruri extract and nanoparticles showed LC 50 and LC 90 of 174.14 and 6.68 ppm and 422.29 and 23.58 ppm, respectively. Overall, this study highlights that the possibility

Research paper thumbnail of Extraction of mosquitocidals from Ocimum canum leaves for the control of dengue and malarial vectors

Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Disease, 2014

To assess the potentiality of Ocimum canum (O. canum) (Lamiaceae) in larvicidal, pupicidal, adult... more To assess the potentiality of Ocimum canum (O. canum) (Lamiaceae) in larvicidal, pupicidal, adulticidal, and repellent activities against the malarial vector, Anopheles stephensi (An. stephensi) and the dengue vector, Aedes aegypti (Ae. aegypti). Methods: The mosquitocidal activity of methanol extracts from O. canum against immature and adult An. stephensi and Ae. aegypti (L.) were studied. Standard WHO bioassays were used to evaluate the effectiveness of the plant extract against mosquitoes. Results: The methanol extract of O. canum was very effective against the immature stages of An. stephensi (LC 50 =193.280, 240.551, 303.409, 374.936 and pupa 469.547 mg/L) and Ae. aegypti (LC 50 =242.071, 287.277, 332.668, 394.061 and pupa 457.879 mg/L). Smoke toxicity assay showed significant mortality rate against adult An. stephensi (86.6%) and Ae. aegypti (84.78%). The number of eggs laid by the females were strictly reduced after exposure to smoke. Conclusions: From the observed results we conclude that O. canum can be used as an effective larvicidal and repellent agent against the malarial and dengue vectors.

Research paper thumbnail of Spinosad and neem seed kernel extract as bio–controlling agents for malarial vector, Anopheles stephensi and non–biting midge, Chironomus circumdatus

Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Medicine, 2011

Research paper thumbnail of Current mosquito-borne disease emergencies in Italy and climate changes. The neem opportunity

Trends in Vector Research and Parasitology, 2014

Research paper thumbnail of Phyto-Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles: A Potent Mosquito Biolarvicidal Agent

Journal of Nanomedicine & Biotherapeutic Discovery, 2013

Mosquito transmit diseases like malaria, dengue accounted for global mortality and morbidity with... more Mosquito transmit diseases like malaria, dengue accounted for global mortality and morbidity with increased resistance to common insecticides. In the present study silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized from aqueous leaves extracts of four plant species (Jatropha gossypifolia, Euphorbia tirucalli, Pedilanthus tithymaloides and Alstonia macrophylla) and there effects on II nd and IV th instars larvae of Aedes aegypti and Anopheles stephensi were evaluated. Synthesized AgNPs were characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy, fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), particle size distribution and zeta potential analysis. II nd and IV th instars larvae of A. aegypti and A. stephensi were exposed to varying concentrations of AgNPs synthesized from plants under investigation (0.625 to 20 ppm) for 24 hours, which revealed larvicidal activity of AgNPs with LC 50 values of 3.50 to 7.01 ppm against II nd instar and 4.44 to 8.74 ppm against IV th instar larvae of A. aegypti and 5.90 to 8.04 ppm for II nd instar, 4.90 to 9.55 ppm against IV th instar of A. stephensi. Results obtained from this study present biosynthesized silver nanoparticles as novel biolarvicidal agent and can be used along with traditional insecticides as approach of Integrated Pest Management (IPM).

Research paper thumbnail of Larvicidal potentiality, longevity and fecundity inhibitory activities of Bacillus sphaericus (Bs G3-IV) on vector mosquitoes, Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus

Journal of Entomological and Acarological Research, 2012

Intervention measures to control the transmission of vector-borne diseases include control of the... more Intervention measures to control the transmission of vector-borne diseases include control of the vector population. In mosquito control, synthetic insecticides used against both the larvae (larvicides) and adults (adulticides) create numerous problems, such as environmental pollution, insecticide resistance and toxic hazards to humans. In the present study, a bacterial pesticide, Bacillus sphaericus (Bs G3-IV), was used to control the dengue and filarial vectors, Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus. Bacillus sphaericus (Bs G3-IV) was very effective against Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus, showing significant larval mortality. Evaluated lethal concentrations (LC50 and LC90) were age-dependent, with early instars requiring a lower concentration compared with later stages of mosquitoes. Culex quinquefasciatus was more susceptible to Bacillus sphaericus (Bs G3-IV) than was Aedes aegypti. Fecundity rate was highly reduced after treatment with different concentrations of Ba...

Research paper thumbnail of Larvicidal and pupicidal activity of spinosad against the malarial vector Anopheles stephensi

Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Medicine, 2011

Research paper thumbnail of Larvicidal activity of indigenous plant extracts on the rural malarial vector, Anopheles culicifacies Giles. (Diptera: Culicidae)

Journal of Entomological and Acarological Research, 2014

Vector control is one of the most important components in combating vector-borne diseases through... more Vector control is one of the most important components in combating vector-borne diseases throughout the world. Application of insecticides is a widely known and popular vector control strategy. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the larvicidal activity of the hexane, diethyl ether, ethyl acetate and acetone extracts of <em>Abutilon</em> <em>indicum</em>, <em>Hyptis</em>…

Research paper thumbnail of Efficacy and side effects of bio-fabricated sardine fish scale silver nanoparticles against malarial vector Anopheles stephensi

Scientific Reports, 2021

Mosquitoes are a great menace for humankind since they transmit pathogenic organisms causing Mala... more Mosquitoes are a great menace for humankind since they transmit pathogenic organisms causing Malaria, Dengue, Chikungunya, Elephantiasis and Japanese encephalitis. There is an urgent need to discover new and novel biological tools to mitigate mosquito-borne diseases. To develop bioinsecticides through newly developed nanotechnology is another option in the present research scenario. In this study we synthesize and characterize sardine fish scales with silver nitrate by adopting various instrumental techniques such as UV- and FTIR-spectroscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray (EDAX), X-ray diffraction analyses (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Toxicity bioassays were conducted with young developmental stages of mosquito vectors. Significant mortality appeared after different life stages of mosquito vectors (young larval and pupal instars were exposed to the nanomaterials). LC50 values were 13.261 ppm for young first instar larvae and 32.182 ppm for pupae. Feeding and predatory po...

Research paper thumbnail of Exploring genetic variation in haplotypes of the filariasis vector Culex quinquefasciatus (Diptera: Culicidae) through DNA barcoding

Acta Tropica, 2017

Highlights  DNA barcoding was used to explore genetic variation of Cx. quinquefasciatus from 88 ... more Highlights  DNA barcoding was used to explore genetic variation of Cx. quinquefasciatus from 88 sites  We evaluated the effectiveness of two gene markers, CO1 and 16S rRNA  Null substitutions were lower in CO1 if compared to 16S rRNA  TCS haplotype network revealed 14 distinct clusters  Intra-and inter-population polymorphism was calculated among global and Indian lineages

Research paper thumbnail of Neem cake as a promising larvicide and adulticide against the rural malaria vector Anopheles culicifacies (Diptera: Culicidae): a HPTLC fingerprinting approach

Natural product research, Jan 24, 2016

Mosquitoes are insects of huge public health importance, since they act as vectors for important ... more Mosquitoes are insects of huge public health importance, since they act as vectors for important pathogens and parasites. Here, we focused on the possibility of using the neem cake in the fight against mosquito vectors. The neem cake chemical composition significantly changes among producers, as evidenced by our HPTLC (High performance thin layer chromatography) analyses of different marketed products. Neem cake extracts were tested to evaluate the ovicidal, larvicidal and adulticidal activity against the rural malaria vector Anopheles culicifacies. Ovicidal activity of both types of extracts was statistically significant, and 150 ppm completely inhibited egg hatching. LC50 values were extremely low against fourth instar larvae, ranging from 1.321 (NM1) to 1.818 ppm (NA2). Adulticidal activity was also high, with LC50 ranging from 3.015 (NM1) to 3.637 ppm (NM2). This study pointed out the utility of neem cake as a source of eco-friendly mosquitocides in Anopheline vector control pro...

Research paper thumbnail of Impact of dengue virus (serotype DENV-2) infection on liver of BALB/c mice: A histopathological analysis

Tissue & cell, Jan 23, 2016

In this research, we characterized the histopathological impact of dengue virus (serotype DENV-2)... more In this research, we characterized the histopathological impact of dengue virus (serotype DENV-2) infection in livers of BALB/c mice. The mice were infected with different doses of DENV-2 via intraperitoneal injection and liver tissues were processed for histological analyses and variation was documented. In the BALB/c mouse model, typical liver tissues showed regular hepatocyte architecture, with normal endothelial cells surrounding sinusoid capillary. Based on histopathological observations, the liver sections of BALB/c mice infected by DENV-2 exhibited a loss of cell integrity, with a widening of the sinusoidal spaces. There were marked increases in the infiltration of mononuclear cells. The areas of hemorrhage and micro- and macrovesicular steatosis were noted. Necrosis and apoptosis were abundantly present. The hallmark of viral infection, i.e., cytopathic effects, included intracellular edema and vacuole formation, cumulatively led to sinusoidal and lobular collapse in the liv...

Research paper thumbnail of Magnetic nanoparticles are highly toxic to chloroquine-resistant Plasmodium falciparum, dengue virus (DEN-2), and their mosquito vectors

Parasitology Research, 2016

A main challenge in parasitology is the development of reliable tools to prevent or treat mosquit... more A main challenge in parasitology is the development of reliable tools to prevent or treat mosquito-borne diseases. We investigated the toxicity of magnetic nanoparticles (MNP) produced by Magnetospirillum gryphiswaldense (strain MSR-1) on chloroquine-resistant (CQ-r) and sensitive (CQ-s) Plasmodium falciparum, dengue virus (DEN-2), and two of their main vectors, Anopheles stephensi and Aedes aegypti, respectively. MNP were studied by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy. They were toxic to larvae and pupae of An. stephensi, LC 50 ranged from 2.563 ppm (1st instar larva) to 6.430 ppm (pupa), and Ae. aegypti, LC 50 ranged from 3.231 ppm (1st instar larva) to 7.545 ppm (pupa). MNP IC 50 on P. falciparum were 83.32 μg ml −1 (CQ-s) and 87.47 μg ml −1 (CQ-r). However, the in vivo efficacy of MNP on Plasmodium berghei was low if compared to CQ-based treatments. Moderate cytotoxicity was detected on Vero cells post-treatment with MNP doses lower than 4 μg ml −1. MNP evaluated at 2-8 μg ml −1 inhibited DEN-2 replication inhibiting the expression of the envelope (E) protein. In conclusion, our findings represent the first report about the use of MNP in medical and veterinary entomology, proposing them as suitable materials to develop reliable tools to combat mosquito-borne diseases.

Research paper thumbnail of Toxicity on Dengue Mosquito Vectors Through Myristica fragrans-Synthesized Zinc Oxide Nanorods, and Their Cytotoxic Effects on Liver Cancer Cells (HepG2)

Journal of Cluster Science, 2016

Dengue is an arbovirus mainly vectored by Aedes mosquitoes. Its prevention and control depends to... more Dengue is an arbovirus mainly vectored by Aedes mosquitoes. Its prevention and control depends to effective vector control measures. Cancer causes millions of death every year. Most of the anticancer drugs have high toxicity and low specificity of action, leading to systemic toxicity and severe side effects. Thus, the development of effective tools is a priority. We fabricated zinc oxide nanoparticles using the Myristica fragrans extract as a reducing and stabilizing agent. Nanoparticles were studied using UV-vis spectrophotometry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, zeta potential, dynamic light scattering, energy dispersive X-ray analysis, field emission scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. ZnO nanorods were highly effective against A. aegypti young instars, with LC 50 ranging from 3.44 (larva I) to 14.63 ppm (pupa). Nanorods showed adult LC 50 of 15.004 ppm. ZnO nanorods exhibited dose-dependent cytotoxicity against human hepato-cancer cells (HepG2). After 48 and 24 h of incubation, the IC 50 were 20 and 22 lg/ml, respectively. Nanorods triggered the induction of apoptosis. Overall, this study highlights that the possibility to employ M. fragrans-synthesized ZnO nanorods in mosquito control, as well as in the development of novel chemotherapeutic agents with reduced systemic toxicity.

Research paper thumbnail of Fabrication of nano-mosquitocides using chitosan from crab shells: Impact on non-target organisms in the aquatic environment

Ecotoxicology and environmental safety, Jan 23, 2016

Mosquitoes are arthropods of huge medical and veterinary relevance, since they vector pathogens a... more Mosquitoes are arthropods of huge medical and veterinary relevance, since they vector pathogens and parasites of public health importance, including malaria, dengue and Zika virus. Currently, nanotechnology is considered a potential eco-friendly approach in mosquito control research. We proposed a novel method of biofabrication of silver nanoparticles (AgNP) using chitosan (Ch) from crab shells. Ch-AgNP nanocomposite was characterized by UV-vis spectroscopy, FTIR, SEM, EDX and XRD. Ch-AgNP were tested against larvae and pupae of the malaria vector Anopheles stephensi obtaining LC50 ranging from 3.18 ppm (I) to 6.54 ppm (pupae). The antibacterial properties of Ch-AgNP were proved against Bacillus subtilis, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Salmonella typhi, while no growth inhibition was reported in assays conducted on Proteus vulgaris. Concerning non-target effects, in standard laboratory considtions the predation efficiency of Danio rerio zebrafishes was 68.8% and 61.6% against I and II in...

Research paper thumbnail of Mosquito Larvicidal Activity of Broussonetia papyrifera Compound Marmesin by Blocking Protein AeSCP-2, Docking Strategies, and Combined Effect of Copepod Megacyclops formosanus Against Dengue Vector Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae)

Journal of Marine Science and Technology, Dec 1, 2013

Mosquito-borne diseases that have an economic impact create losses in commercial and labor output... more Mosquito-borne diseases that have an economic impact create losses in commercial and labor outputs, particularly in countries with tropical and subtropical climates. The emergence of resistance to synthetic insecticides is a challenge to mosquito control. Cyclopoid copepods are important predators in many aquatic ecosystems and have been successfully used as biological agents to control mosquito larvae. For this study, we examined the larvicidal activity of the copepod Megacyclops formosanus in combination with the compound marmesin (which was purified from the methanol crude extract of the plant stem bark of Broussonetia papyrifera) against Aedes aegypti larvae. Their larvicidal activity and in silico docking analysis regarding the inhibition of the binding cholesterol sterol carrier protein-2 (AeSCP-2) against A. aegypti were evaluated. The significant larvicidal potential was recorded after the marmesin plant compound treatment against the dengue vector A. aegypti. Larval mortality was observed after 24 h of exposure. The LC 50 and LC 90 of marmesin against the first to fourth instar larvae and pupae were 0.104, 0.115, 0.137, 0.176, and 0.353 ppm, and 0.255, 0.270, 0.297, 0.365, and 0.643 ppm, respectively. This study showed that marmesin and copepods can be used effectively for mosquito larvae control programs. This is an ideal eco-friendly approach for controlling A. aegypti larvae.

Research paper thumbnail of Eco-friendly drugs from the marine environment: spongeweed-synthesized silver nanoparticles are highly effective on Plasmodium falciparum and its vector Anopheles stephensi, with little non-target effects on predatory copepods

Environmental science and pollution research international, Jan 16, 2016

Mosquitoes act as vectors of devastating pathogens and parasites, representing a key threat for m... more Mosquitoes act as vectors of devastating pathogens and parasites, representing a key threat for millions of humans and animals worldwide. The control of mosquito-borne diseases is facing a number of crucial challenges, including the emergence of artemisinin and chloroquine resistance in Plasmodium parasites, as well as the presence of mosquito vectors resistant to synthetic and microbial pesticides. Therefore, eco-friendly tools are urgently required. Here, a synergic approach relying to nanotechnologies and biological control strategies is proposed. The marine environment is an outstanding reservoir of bioactive natural products, which have many applications against pests, parasites, and pathogens. We proposed a novel method of seaweed-mediated synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNP) using the spongeweed Codium tomentosum, acting as a reducing and capping agent. AgNP were characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, scanning electron micros...

Research paper thumbnail of Mosquitocidal Activity of Hedychium coronarium Rhizome Extract and Copepod Megacyclops formosanus for the Control of Dengue Vector Aedes aegypti

Journal of Marine Science and Technology, Dec 1, 2013

The bio-efficacy of Hedychium coronarium Rhizome extract and copepods Megacyclops formosanus, wer... more The bio-efficacy of Hedychium coronarium Rhizome extract and copepods Megacyclops formosanus, were tested against first to fourth-instar larvae and pupae of dengue Vector Aedes aegypti under laboratory conditions. Different solvent extracts of H. coronarium, combined with copepod M. formosanus showed considerable mortality against A. aegypti. The median lethal concentration value (LC 50) observed for the larvicidal and pupicidal activities against mosquito vector species A. aegypti value were 38.59, ppm; no mortality was observed in the control group. This study was also initiated to test the predatory efficiency of copepod against different larval instars and predatory efficiency was noticed at the laboratory and efficiency was higher after the combined treatment with H. coronarium extract. This is an ideal eco-friendly approach for the control of vector control programs.

Research paper thumbnail of Efficacy of larvicidal and pupicidal properties of Acalypha alnifolia Klein ex Willd. (Euphorbiaceae) leaf extract and Metarhizium anisopliae (Metsch.) against Culex quinquefasciatus Say. (Diptera: Culicidae)

Journal of Biopesticides

The present study was carried out to establish the properties of Acalypha alnifolia leaf extract ... more The present study was carried out to establish the properties of Acalypha alnifolia leaf extract and microbial insecticide, Metarizhium anisopliae on larvicidal and pupicidal activity against the lymphatic filarial vector, Culex quinquefasciatus. The methanol extract of A. alnifolia leaf showed larvicidal and pupicidal effects after 24 h of exposure; with, the highest larval and pupal mortality was recorded against the first-to fourth-instar larvae and pupae of values LC 50 = 5.67% 1 st instar, 6.62% 2 nd instar, 7.53% 3 rd instar and 9.05% 4 th instar, and 10.20% pupae respectively, and microbial insecticide, M. anisopliae against the first to fourth instar larvae and pupae with LC 50 values 1 st instar was 10.53%, 2 nd instar was 15.57%, 3 rd instar was 23.06%, and 4 th instar was 31.36%, and pupae was 42.54%, respectively. Moreover, combined treatment of values of LC 50 values of 1 st instar was 3.73%, 2 nd instar was 4.72%, 3 rd instar was 5.55%, and 4 th instar was 7.66%, and pupae was 9.16%, respectively. No mortality was observed in the control. The results shows the leaves extract of A. alnifolia and the entomopathogenic fungi, M. anisopliae are candidates for controlling lymphatic filarial vector, C. quinquefasciatus. Hence, A. alnifolia and M. anisopliae can be considered for eco-friendly vector control programs.

Research paper thumbnail of Studies on the effect of Sida Acuta and Vetiveria Zizanioides against the malarial vector, Anopheles Stephensi and malarial parasite, Plasmodium Berghei

Research paper thumbnail of Tackling the growing threat of dengue: Phyllanthus niruri-mediated synthesis of silver nanoparticles and their mosquitocidal properties against the dengue vector Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae)

Parasitology Research, 2015

Mosquitoes are vectors of devastating pathogens and parasites, causing millions of deaths every y... more Mosquitoes are vectors of devastating pathogens and parasites, causing millions of deaths every year. Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral infection found in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. Recently, transmission has strongly increased in urban and semiurban areas, becoming a major international public health concern. Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) is the primary vector of dengue. The use of synthetic insecticides to control Aedes mosquitoes lead to high operational costs and adverse nontarget effects. In this scenario, eco-friendly control tools are a priority. We proposed a novel method to synthesize silver nanoparticles using the aqueous leaf extract of Phyllanthus niruri, a cheap and nontoxic material. The UV-vis spectrum of the aqueous medium containing silver nanostructures showed a peak at 420 nm corresponding to the surface plasmon resonance band of nanoparticles. SEM analyses of the synthesized nanoparticles showed a mean size of 30-60 nm. EDX spectrum showed the chemical composition of the synthesized nanoparticles. XRD highlighted that the nanoparticles are crystalline in nature with face-centered cubic geometry. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) of nanoparticles exhibited prominent peaks 3,327.63, 2,125.87, 1,637.89, 644.35, 597.41, and 554.63 cm −1. In laboratory assays, the aqueous extract of P. niruri was toxic against larval instars (I-IV) and pupae of A. aegypti. LC 50 was 158.24 ppm (I), 183.20 ppm (II), 210.53 ppm (III), 210.53 ppm (IV), and 358.08 ppm (pupae). P. niruri-synthesized nanoparticles were highly effective against A. aegypti, with LC 50 of 3.90 ppm (I), 5.01 ppm (II), 6.2 ppm (III), 8.9 ppm (IV), and 13.04 ppm (pupae). In the field, the application of silver nanoparticles (10×LC 50) lead to A. aegypti larval reduction of 47.6 %, 76.7 % and 100 %, after 24, 48, and 72 h, while the P. niruri extract lead to 39.9 %, 69.2 % and 100 % of reduction, respectively. In adulticidal experiments, P. niruri extract and nanoparticles showed LC 50 and LC 90 of 174.14 and 6.68 ppm and 422.29 and 23.58 ppm, respectively. Overall, this study highlights that the possibility

Research paper thumbnail of Extraction of mosquitocidals from Ocimum canum leaves for the control of dengue and malarial vectors

Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Disease, 2014

To assess the potentiality of Ocimum canum (O. canum) (Lamiaceae) in larvicidal, pupicidal, adult... more To assess the potentiality of Ocimum canum (O. canum) (Lamiaceae) in larvicidal, pupicidal, adulticidal, and repellent activities against the malarial vector, Anopheles stephensi (An. stephensi) and the dengue vector, Aedes aegypti (Ae. aegypti). Methods: The mosquitocidal activity of methanol extracts from O. canum against immature and adult An. stephensi and Ae. aegypti (L.) were studied. Standard WHO bioassays were used to evaluate the effectiveness of the plant extract against mosquitoes. Results: The methanol extract of O. canum was very effective against the immature stages of An. stephensi (LC 50 =193.280, 240.551, 303.409, 374.936 and pupa 469.547 mg/L) and Ae. aegypti (LC 50 =242.071, 287.277, 332.668, 394.061 and pupa 457.879 mg/L). Smoke toxicity assay showed significant mortality rate against adult An. stephensi (86.6%) and Ae. aegypti (84.78%). The number of eggs laid by the females were strictly reduced after exposure to smoke. Conclusions: From the observed results we conclude that O. canum can be used as an effective larvicidal and repellent agent against the malarial and dengue vectors.

Research paper thumbnail of Spinosad and neem seed kernel extract as bio–controlling agents for malarial vector, Anopheles stephensi and non–biting midge, Chironomus circumdatus

Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Medicine, 2011

Research paper thumbnail of Current mosquito-borne disease emergencies in Italy and climate changes. The neem opportunity

Trends in Vector Research and Parasitology, 2014

Research paper thumbnail of Phyto-Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles: A Potent Mosquito Biolarvicidal Agent

Journal of Nanomedicine & Biotherapeutic Discovery, 2013

Mosquito transmit diseases like malaria, dengue accounted for global mortality and morbidity with... more Mosquito transmit diseases like malaria, dengue accounted for global mortality and morbidity with increased resistance to common insecticides. In the present study silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized from aqueous leaves extracts of four plant species (Jatropha gossypifolia, Euphorbia tirucalli, Pedilanthus tithymaloides and Alstonia macrophylla) and there effects on II nd and IV th instars larvae of Aedes aegypti and Anopheles stephensi were evaluated. Synthesized AgNPs were characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy, fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), particle size distribution and zeta potential analysis. II nd and IV th instars larvae of A. aegypti and A. stephensi were exposed to varying concentrations of AgNPs synthesized from plants under investigation (0.625 to 20 ppm) for 24 hours, which revealed larvicidal activity of AgNPs with LC 50 values of 3.50 to 7.01 ppm against II nd instar and 4.44 to 8.74 ppm against IV th instar larvae of A. aegypti and 5.90 to 8.04 ppm for II nd instar, 4.90 to 9.55 ppm against IV th instar of A. stephensi. Results obtained from this study present biosynthesized silver nanoparticles as novel biolarvicidal agent and can be used along with traditional insecticides as approach of Integrated Pest Management (IPM).

Research paper thumbnail of Larvicidal potentiality, longevity and fecundity inhibitory activities of Bacillus sphaericus (Bs G3-IV) on vector mosquitoes, Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus

Journal of Entomological and Acarological Research, 2012

Intervention measures to control the transmission of vector-borne diseases include control of the... more Intervention measures to control the transmission of vector-borne diseases include control of the vector population. In mosquito control, synthetic insecticides used against both the larvae (larvicides) and adults (adulticides) create numerous problems, such as environmental pollution, insecticide resistance and toxic hazards to humans. In the present study, a bacterial pesticide, Bacillus sphaericus (Bs G3-IV), was used to control the dengue and filarial vectors, Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus. Bacillus sphaericus (Bs G3-IV) was very effective against Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus, showing significant larval mortality. Evaluated lethal concentrations (LC50 and LC90) were age-dependent, with early instars requiring a lower concentration compared with later stages of mosquitoes. Culex quinquefasciatus was more susceptible to Bacillus sphaericus (Bs G3-IV) than was Aedes aegypti. Fecundity rate was highly reduced after treatment with different concentrations of Ba...

Research paper thumbnail of Larvicidal and pupicidal activity of spinosad against the malarial vector Anopheles stephensi

Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Medicine, 2011

Research paper thumbnail of Larvicidal activity of indigenous plant extracts on the rural malarial vector, Anopheles culicifacies Giles. (Diptera: Culicidae)

Journal of Entomological and Acarological Research, 2014

Vector control is one of the most important components in combating vector-borne diseases through... more Vector control is one of the most important components in combating vector-borne diseases throughout the world. Application of insecticides is a widely known and popular vector control strategy. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the larvicidal activity of the hexane, diethyl ether, ethyl acetate and acetone extracts of <em>Abutilon</em> <em>indicum</em>, <em>Hyptis</em>…