Artemisinins Inhibit <i>Trypanosoma cruzi</i> and <i>Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense</i> In Vitro Growth

Abstract

Artemisinin compounds inhibit in vitro growth of cultured Trypanosoma cruzi and Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense at concentrations in the low micromolar range. Artemisinin also inhibits calcium-dependent ATPase activity in T. cruzi membranes, suggesting a mode of action via membrane pumps. Artemisinins merit further investigation as chemotherapeutic options for these pathogens.