Effects of chitosan nanoparticles, ivermectin and their combination in the treatment of Gasterophilus intestinalis (Diptera: Gasterophilidae) larvae in donkeys (Equus asinus)

This study examined the effects of a novel natural drug developed with new technology on highly prevalent larvae in donkeys. Twelve donkeys were endoscopically examined for the oral treatment of G. intestinalis larvae. Donkeys in the first group were administered chitosan nanoparticles (CsNPs), those in the second group were administered ivermectin (Ive), and those in the third group ( n = 3) were administered a combination of CsNPs and Ive (CsNP-Ive), while those in the fourth group (n = 3) were not treated as controls. The prepared CsNPs were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and dynamic light scattering (DLS), and the zeta potential was measured. A gastroscopic examination of the parasites was performed, along with biochemical analyses of digestive system disturbances and oxidative stress and quantification of mucin gene expression in comparison with the positive control group. All larvae collected from the examined stomachs were identified as larvae of G. intestinalis . The larval tegument in the three treatment groups was studied. A significant decrease in the protein and lipid profiles, as well as the cortisol concentration and oxidative stress parameters, was observed in the experimental groups compared with the positive control group. In conclusion, the combination of chitosan and ivermectin showed practical synergism beneficial for animal health mediated by cytoprotective effects with minimal side effects.