In Vitro Action of Papaya (Carica Papaya) Latex and Pure Papain Against Eimeria Bovis Oocysts.

PURPOSE: Eimeria bovis is a protozoan disease-causing coccidiosis, a which affects significantly on the global cattle industry. Nonetheless, the control measures implemented have not been entirely effective, thus prompting the search for alternative methods for the parasitic and/or environmental control of the infecting forms (sporulated oocysts). The study aimed to evaluate the effect of papaya (Carica papaya) latex and pure papain on both sporulated and non-sporulated E. bovis oocysts.

METHODS

Oocysts were collected from the feces of calves previously inoculated with E. bovis and stored in a potassium dichromate solution. Subsequently, the oocysts were assessed for the application of aqueous solutions (both active and denatured) of latex and papain at concentrations of 10%, 15%, and 30% (w/v), alongside a control group (water), which were incubated at 28 °C for 48 h. A reduction in oocyst counts was observed in the treatments compared to the control group.

RESULTS

However, a significant difference (p < 0.01) was noted only at the concentration of 30% papain (m/v) in relation to the control.

CONCLUSION

The findings suggest that extracts of C. papaya, rich in papain, hold considerable potential for future applications in the control of E. bovis.