Integrating in vivo and in silico: a comprehensive study of Helix aspersa mucin’s therapeutic properties

Theodor Bilharz Research Institute

Bibliographic Information

Authors: Ibrahim A.M.; Morad M.Y.; Kamel R.

Journal: International Microbiology

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media Deutschland GmbH

Publication Date: 17 April 2026

Volume / Issue: Volume 29 / Issue 6

Pages: 863–876

ISSN: 11396709

DOI: 10.1007/s10123-026-00781-9

Scopus: View on Scopus

PubMed: 41996043

Document Type: Article

Access: All Open Access; Green Open Access; Hybrid Gold Open Access

Authors and Affiliations

Ibrahim A.M., Medical Malacology Department, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Imbaba, P.O:11635, Giza, 12411, Egypt; Morad M.Y., Zoology and Entomology Department, Faculty of Science, Capital University (Formerly Helwan University), Helwan, 11795, Egypt; Kamel R., Pharmaceutical Technology Department, National Research Centre, Cairo, 12622, Egypt

Abstract

Purpose: The current study aims to elucidate the use of a novel Helix aspersa snail mucin gel as an eco-friendly agent against certain bacterial strains and improve the wound repair process. Additionally, it aims to investigate its potential effects as a natural anticancer agent. Methods: Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis was performed to detect mucin components. Twelve compounds were identified mostly phenol derivatives. Mucin gel inhibited the growth of various pathogenic Gram- positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The experimental mice’s backs were given an excisional wound. Results: The treatment with mucin gel could hasten wound closure and decrease the time needed for full recovery. Only twelve days were needed to complete wound healing for the treated group with mucin gel, while fifteen days were required for full recovery in the Garamycin treated group. Mucin gel didn’t show any potential effect on the viability of the human melanoma cell line. The concentrations of IL-2 and TNF-α were significantly decreased upon the application of mucin gel. Also, the apoptosis effector caspase-3 has shown a decrease in its levels after the treatment. The molecular docking was conducted to predict the effect of 1,6-Octadien-3-ol, 3,7, - dimethyl- Linalyal acetate and Tricyclo[3.1.0.0(2,4)] hex-3-ene-3-carbonitrile compounds against the measured parameters. The In silico docking study showed an inhibitory effect for the tested components due to increasing its hydrophilicity and then, they could increase the pharmacological potential of snail mucin for use in wound-healing and antibacterial applications. Conclusion: Helix aspersa mucin gel is a promising, inexpensive, eco-friendly agent against wounds and a highly effective antibacterial component. © The Author(s) 2026.

Keywords

Antibacterial activity; Brown garden snail; Molecular docking; Mucin gel; Wound healing; mucin; article; computer model; controlled study; drug therapy; Helix aspersa; human; nonhuman; snail

Citation Information

Scopus Citations: 0

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