Antiprotozoal and Anthelmintic Activity of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles

Abstract

Nanomaterials represent a wide alternative for the treatment of several diseases that affect both human and animal health. The use of these materials consists, mainly, in trying to solve the problem of resistance that pathogenic organisms acquire to conventional drugs. A well-studied example that represents a potential component for biomedical applications is the use of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles (NPs). Its antimicrobial function is related, especially to the ability to generate/induce ROS that affects the homeostasis of the pathogen in question. Protozoa and helminths that harm human health and the economic performance of animals have already been exposed to this type of nanoparticle. Thus, through this review, our goal is to discuss the state-of-the-art effect of ZnONPs on these parasites.

Keywords: Antiprotozoal; anthelmintic; infectious diseases; nanoparticles; treatment; zinc oxide.