The effects of homeopathic coca on membrane integrity in calcium stressed Tetrahymena thermophila

Abstract

Abstract only.Homeopathic coca has been lauded as a natural treatment for a wide variety of ailments, from treating altitude mountain sickness to relieving withdrawal symptoms in individuals addicted to cocaine. Given the varying results from studies investigating the veracity of homeopathic coca’s effectiveness on cocaine withdrawal, the goal of this study was to examine the effect of coca in a model organism that mimics the symptoms associated with withdrawal. To accomplish this, symptoms reported in cocaine addicts were induced in Tetrahymena thermophila through exposure to excess calcium cations and then subsequently treated with homeopathic coca. It was hypothesized that homeopathic coca would help maintain the integrity and functionality of cell membranes after the calcium-induced membrane stress. To investigate the cellular response of T. thermophila to excess calcium and homeopathic coca, behavioral assays were performed to assess metabolic function, motility, and responsiveness to a chemical stimulus. Furthermore, gene expression analysis was performed on the CAM1 and AMK1 genes using Reverse Transcription - quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-qPCR). It was predicted that treatment with homeopathic coca would increase expression of CAM1 and AMK1, two genes involved in cross membrane transport and ciliary function. Behaviorally, it was predicted that T. thermophila cells would experience an increased linear speed, increased response to chemical gradients, and a faster recovery from deciliation after being treated with homeopathic coca. Understanding the mechanistic action of homeopathic coca in treating withdrawal symptoms in a model organism provides a basis for research on its effects in human patients