10.1021/acsinfecdis.9b00034
This study investigated the anti-schistosomal properties of sclareol, a plant-derived diterpenoid, and its Heck-coupled derivatives against Schistosoma mansoni, a parasitic trematode that causes schistosomiasis. Sclareol, known for its antimicrobial and anticancer properties, is active against the larval, juvenile, and adult stages of S. mansoni. The researchers synthesized a series of sclareol derivatives guided by Matsy decision trees to improve their anthelmintic activity. The most potent derivative, compound 12, showed enhanced potency and selectivity against schistosomes. The study aimed to understand the mechanism of action of sclareol, which is different from that of the standard anti-schistosomal drug praziquantel (PZQ). Metabolomic analysis revealed that compound 12 affects membrane lipid homeostasis by interfering with arachidonic acid metabolism, primarily altering sugar metabolism. These findings provide insights into the development of more effective anti-schistosomal sclareol derivatives.