A benzimidazole derivative (RCB15) in vitro induces the alternative energetic metabolism and glycolysis in Taenia crassiceps cysticerci

•Benzimidazole derivatives impair in vitro glucose uptake in T. crassiceps cysticerci.•Benzimidazole derivatives induce in vitro fatty acids oxidation in T. crassiceps cysticerci.•Benzimidazole derivatives induce in vitro gluconeogenesis in T. crassiceps cysticerci.

The emergence of resistance to albendazole has encouraged the search for effective alternatives for cysticercosis and other parasitosis treatment. RCB15 is a benzimidazole derivative that may be used against such diseases. The aim of this study was to determine the in vitro effect of RCB15 on the alternative energetic pathways of Taenia crassiceps cysticerci. The cysticerci were in vitro exposed to albendazole sulphoxide (ABZSO) or RCB15 at different concentrations during 24 h. The cysticerci extract and the culture medium were analyzed through spectrophotometry and high performance liquid chromatography as to detect glucose, urea, creatinine and organic acids of the energetic metabolism. The drugs did not influence the protein catabolism. Fatty acids oxidation was enhanced through significantly higher acetate concentrations in the groups treated with RCB15 and ABZSO. Beta-hydroxybutyrate concentrations were decreased which indicates the use of fatty acids towards acetyl-CoA synthesis. There was a decrease in glucose uptake and pyruvate concentrations. The absence of lactate indicates the use of pyruvate in gluconeogenesis. Therefore it is possible to conclude that RCB15 enhanced the alternative energetic pathways of cysticerci in vitro exposed to different concentration, with emphasis on the fatty acids catabolism.

Graphical abstractDownload high-res image (93KB)Download full-size imageIn vitro glycolysis in Taenia crassiceps cysticerci exposed to a benzimidazole derivative (RCB15) and albendazole sulphoxide (ABZSO). *p < 0.05 when compared to the control group.