Farnesol attenuates inflammation and protects the liver of rats experimentally infected with Sporothrix brasiliensis

Sporotrichosis, a neglected tropical disease, is an emerging implantation mycosis considered a global public health concern attributed to thermodimorphic fungus of the genus Sporothrix. An important step in controlling sporotrichosis is the implementation of suitable treatments. However, resistance to first-line antifungal therapies represents a growing challenge for sporotrichosis management, reinforcing the need for alternative and effective treatments, such as farnesol. Farnesol is a sesquiterpene alcohol considered a potential compound due to its antifungal activity in vitro and anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective effects noted in vivo. However, farnesol in-vivo antifungal activity against S. brasiliensis remains to be determined. The aim of this study was to determine whether farnesol exerts antifungal action in rats inoculated with S. brasiliensis, and whether this compound provides protection to hepatic. Farnesol (100 mg/kg daily for 21 days) did not significantly reduce hepatic and renal fungal burden compared to infected rats and those treated with corn oil. Farnesol treatment diminished elevation of total leukocytes, lymphocytes, and eosinophil counts compared to infected and corn oil-treated rats. In infected rats, farnesol reduced increase in activities of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase and levels of creatinine, and urea. Further, farnesol also restored hematological indices related to white blood parameters. Farnesol also improved biomarkers of hepatic and renal functions. Therapeutic use of farnesol may be considered an interesting approach to improve hematological and hepatic consequences during disseminated sporotrichosis.