Evaluation of genotoxic damage, production reactive oxygen and nitrogen species in Plasmodium yoelii yoelii exposed to sodium metavanadate

Abstract

Malaria represents the greatest global health burden among all parasitic diseases, with drug resistance representing the primary obstacle to control efforts. Sodium metavanadate (NaVO₃) exhibits antimalarial activity against the Plasmodium yoelii yoelii (Pyy), yet its precise antimalarial mechanism remains elusive. This study aimed to assess the antimalarial potential of NaVO₃, evaluate its genotoxicity, and determine the production of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (ROS/RNS) in Pyy. CD-1 mice were infected and divided into two groups: one treated orally with NaVO₃ (10 mg/kg/day for 4 days) and the other untreated. A 50% decrease in parasitemia was observed in treated mice. All experimental days demonstrated DNA damage in exposed parasites, along with an increase in ROS and RNS on the fifth day, suggesting a possible parasitostatic effect. The results indicate that DNA is a target of NaVO₃, but further studies are necessary to fully elucidate the mechanisms underlying its antimalarial activity.