2S ALBUMIN FROM CRAMBE SEEDS: A NATURAL CANDIDATE AGAINST TRYPANOSOMA CRUZI

Plant storage proteins play a crucial role in seedling growth and plant survival, with diverse functions including antimicrobial and anti-cancer properties. Among these, antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) represent a significant group with various subclasses such as thionins, defensins, and cyclotides. While previous research has identified the antimicrobial activities of certain plant peptides against different pathogens, the impact of 2S albumins on protozoa remains unexplored. In this study, we investigate the effects of 2S albumins from crambe seeds on Trypanosoma cruzi, the causative agent of Chagas disease. These 2S albumins, typically small proteins rich in cysteines, have shown increasing clinical significance. Chagas disease is a parasitic illness transmitted primarily by triatomine vectors but can also occur through blood transfusion, organ transplantation, or congenitally. Our findings shed light on the potential therapeutic applications of 2S albumins against T. cruzi and contribute to the understanding of innovative approaches for parasitic disease control.