In vitro antileishmanial activity of ozone against Leishmania major

Objectives: This research aimed to investigate the impact of ozone on Leishmania major. Methods: Leishmania major promastigotes were exposed to ozone flow at varying concentrations (5, 10, 20, 30, and 40 ppm) for different durations (5, 10, 20, 30, and 40 minutes). The DNA of the treated promastigotes was extracted to evaluate DNA fragmentation. Apoptosis induction in the treated L. major promastigotes was analyzed using a specific kit. Additionally, scanning electron microscopy was employed to observe ultrastructural changes in the treated promastigotes. Results: The highest fatality rate (100%) occurred after 30 minutes of exposure to 40 ppm ozone gas, while the lowest fatality rate was 16.14% after 5 minutes of exposure to 5 ppm ozone gas. The DNA of the treated parasites was degraded, and significant morphological changes were observed in the body and flagella of the promastigotes. Induction of apoptosis was also noted. Conclusion: Ozone exhibits anti-Leishmania activity and induces apoptosis in Leishmania major. Furthermore, clear ultrastructural changes were observed in Leishmania major following ozone exposure. These findings suggest that ozone warrants further investigation as an anti-leishmanial agent.