Leishmania alters the structure of the human protein that would normally induce the death of infected cells and weakens the inflammatory response. Reported in Nature Communications, the discovery could serve as a basis for better treatment.

In vitro experiments were conducted by researchers at CIBFar with a synthetic peptide inspired by molecules secreted by the probiotic bacterium Lactobacillus plantarum.

Scientists at a FoRC combined substances extracted from fruit residues and egg white to package nanoparticles of anthocyanin, a plant pigment with antioxidant action. This nanoencapsulation prevents breakdown of the molecule and lets a larger amount reach the gut, where it is absorbed.