Acinar Changes Research Articles

Characterization of a Novel Implant Intended to Expand and Reshape the Prostatic Urethra for the Treatment of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: A Pre-Clinical Feasibility Study in the Canine Model

ObjectiveTo evaluate the safety, feasibility, and tissue response of a novel device for the treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia, using the first-generation Urocross Expander System (Mercury Expander System). MethodsThe implant was deployed and retrieved using flexible cystoscope in 8 adult male canines, separated into three study arms by retrieval date (1-, 6-, and 12- months post-deployment). Cystoscopy and urethrograms verified implant position/diameter; bladder neck and external sphincter function/changes; prostatic tissue response; and implant condition. One-month post-retrieval, the prostate and surrounding tissue was sectioned and evaluated by a veterinary pathologist. ResultsAll implants were successfully deployed in the prostatic urethra. Urethral width was increased (6.9 ± 1.8 mm to 10.2 ± 0.6 mm, P = .012) and preserved through the dwell period. Urethral length and sphincter diameters didn't significantly change. All subjects (n = 8) remained continent without obstruction or retention. Adverse events included incisional site bleeding (n = 2) and transient hematuria (n = 3). One implant migrated into the bladder and spontaneously repositioned into the prostatic urethra. Post-retrieval, explant surfaces demonstrated no tissue growth, encrustation or stone formation. Imaging revealed contact site erythema and indentation, but no stones, strictures, perforations, erosions, nor ulcerations. Histopathology revealed glandular acinar changes, inflammation, and fibrosis. ConclusionThe first generation of the Urocross Expander System demonstrated a favorable safety profile in the canine model. Changes in the prostatic urethra shape were noted with an increase in urethral width during the dwell period with minimal tissue changes. Further, the implant didn't demonstrate any encrustation, tissue growth or stone formation.

Morphological Changes in the Lacrimal Gland of Anophthalmic Socket in Relation to the Contralateral Normal Eye in Male Wistar Albino Rats: A Histopathology Study

ABSTRACT Purpose: The purpose of the study is to analyze the structural and functional alterations of the lacrimal gland and its tear secretion post-enucleation in Wistar rats. Method: Adult male Wistar rats (n = 15) of 8-week-old were randomly assigned into three groups viz. control, sham, and experimental group (n = 5). Rats of the experimental group were subjected to enucleation of the right eye. Under aseptic surgical conditions, with sterilized forceps, right eyeball of the rats of experimental group was exposed completely out of the socket by applying pressure on the lateral canthus of the eye. Enucleation was then achieved after holding the optic nerve tightly. The surgical procedure was similar in sham group without enucleation. Quantity of tears (Basal and reflex) secreted in both eyes in rats of all groups were measured by using Schirmer’s strip, pre- and post-three weeks of enucleation. The lacrimal gland was harvested to analyze histopathological (structural) alterations. Results: Pr- and post-enucleation there was no significant difference observed in the tear volume across the groups. Histopathology of the lacrimal glands from all groups showed preserved lobular architecture with serous acini arranged in lobules, intralobular and interlobular ducts, interstitial fibro collagenous tissue. There was no glandular distortion and atrophy in experimental group. Conclusion: Enucleation do not co-relate or affect the tear volume and lacrimal gland acinar microstructural changes in an anophthalmic socket co-relating to the contralateral normal functional eye.

Pathomorphology of cat pancreas under chronic pancreatitis

The paper deals with studying the pathomorphology of cat pancreas under chronic pancreatitis. This paper is a component of a research mix of the Department of Anatomy and Histology, it goes under the title “The development, morphology and histo-chemistry of animal organs in health and in disease”, (state registration number № 0120U100796). A pancreas is an azygos parenchymatous organ which refers to the endoexocrine glands, includes exocrine and endocrine pancreas, is involved in the processes of digestion and regulation of carbohydrate metabolism, protein metabolism and lipid exchange in tissues. Pancreatic juice, which is rich in enzymes (trypsin, lipase, amylase), is produced in an exocrine pancreas, and hormones (insulin, somatostatin, glucagon (vasoactive intestinal polypeptide), pancreatic polypeptide) are produced in endocrine pancreas. This galand is involved in the process of digestion while producing digestive enzymes, which get into the duodenum and hydrolyze practically all parts of feeds which enter the body. It is located in an abdominal cavity, anatomically connected with a stomach, liver and duedenum. It has been found that pathomorphological changes in pancreas under chronic pancreatits manifest themselves depending on the disease stage and are revealed by insignificant progress of the pathological process. Herewith, morphological parameters of pancreas width and length in cats under chronical pancreatitis did not significantly change, but these indices tended to decrease. Its absolute weight in cats under chronical pancreatitis, as compared with clinically healthy cats, did not change and equalled 9.12 ± 2.03 g. But pancreas relative weight in sick cats increased by 1.4 (Р ≤ 0.01) and equalled 0.51 ± 0.08 %, as compared with control 0.38 ± 0.06 %. Under histological analysis of pancreas histology specimen stained with hematoxylin Corazzi and eosin, some distortion in a microscopic structure of a pancreas was observed, it manifested itself in thickening of interparticle tissue-connective layers which spread like desmogenous bands. Some destructive changes in acini in exocrinal pancreas, which manifested themselves in losing their characteristic form, were noticed. The cytoplasm of such acinous cells was in a state of plasmorrhexis, the pycnosis was observed.

The Influence of Pregnancy on Female Prostate Morphophysiology in Gerbils (Meriones unguiculatus)

Morphophysiological changes of the female prostate during pregnancy are still little known. Considering that this gland is highly influenced by steroid hormones, the aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of the pregnancy on female prostate morphophysiology in gerbils. Pregnant females were timed, and the prostates were analyzed at pregnancy days 6 (P6), 12 (P12), 18 (P18), and 24 (P24). Virgin females were used as the control group (C). We observed a profound change in the hormonal profile during gestation, which was marked by a high oscillation of the progesterone (P4) hormone. P4 serum levels increased, peaking at the middle of gestation, and decreased to the end of the pregnancy. The morphology of the gland in pregnant females also changed, being marked by an increase of acini lumen, and a decrease in stroma. Indeed, the acinar changes during pregnancy were followed by a significant reduction of the epithelial height, besides a change of the smooth muscle cells' morphology that became more relaxed. The number of progesterone receptor (PR) and androgen receptor (AR)-positives cells decreased with the increase of progesterone serum levels, showing an inverse relationship. Finally, we observed a reduction of epithelial proliferation and asignificant increase of gland PAS-positive secretion at the end of pregnancy. Altogether, these results showed, for the first time, that the female prostate morphophysioloy is profoundly influenced by the gestational period, suggesting that the fluctuation of the P4 serum levels is the main factor influencing the gland during this period.

Airway Microstructure in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis: Assessment at Hyperpolarized 3He Diffusion-weighted MRI.

Background MRI with inhaled hyperpolarized helium 3 (3He) allows for functional and structural imaging of the lungs. Hyperpolarized gas diffusion-weighted (DW) MRI provides noninvasive and quantitative assessment of microstructural acinar changes in the lungs. Purpose To investigate whether microstructural imaging metrics from in-vivo hyperpolarized 3He DW MRI are sensitive to longitudinal changes in a cohort of participants with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and to evaluate the reproducibility of these metrics and their correlation with existing clinical measures of IPF disease severity. Materials and Methods In this prospective study, 18 participants with IPF underwent 3He DW MRI at 1.5 T and 11 participants underwent an identical same-day examination for reproducibility assessment. Thirteen participants returned for 6- and 12-month follow-up examinations. Pulmonary function tests, including diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide and forced vital capacity, were performed at each examination. The apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) and stretched exponential model-derived mean diffusive length scale (LmD) from DW MRI was compared with baseline CT fibrosis scores and pulmonary function tests by using Spearman rank correlation coefficient. Longitudinal changes in DW MRI and pulmonary function test measurements were assessed with Friedman tests and post hoc Dunn test. Results 3He ADC and LmD were reproducible (mean Bland-Altman analysis bias, 0.002 cm2 · sec-1 and -1.5 μm, respectively). Elevated ADC and LmD regions qualitatively corresponded to fibrotic regions at CT. ADC and LmD correlated with diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide (respectively: r = -0.56, P = .017; and r = -0.54, P = .02) and CT fibrosis score (respectively: r = 0.71, P = .001; and r = 0.65, P = .003). LmD increased by 12 μm after 12 months (P = .001) whereas mean ADC (P = .17), forced vital capacity (P = .12), and diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide (P > .99) were not statistically different between examinations. Conclusion Helium 3 diffusion-weighted MRI-derived mean diffusive length scale demonstrates longitudinal changes in lungs affected by idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. © RSNA, 2019 Online supplemental material is available for this article. See also the editorial by Altes and Flors in this issue.

Experimental rat prostatitis caused by Trichomonas vaginalis infection.

Trichomonas vaginalis (T. vaginalis) is the most common sexually transmitted parasite. It has been detected in prostatic tissue of patients with prostatitis and reported to be associated with chronic prostatitis and benign prostatic hyperplasia as well as prostate cancer. Recently, experimental rodent models of prostatitis induced by pathogen infection have been developed. However, there have so far been no reports of prostatitis caused by T. vaginalis infection in animals. Here, we investigated whether infection with T. vaginalis via the rat urethra could cause prostatitis. T. vaginalis was injected into prostate through urethra of rat (Wistar rats), and the rats were killed 1, 2, or 4 weeks later. The presence of T. vaginalis trophozoites in the rat prostates was examined by immunohistochemistry, and pathological changes of the prostate were observed by hematoxylin-eosin staining and evaluated by grading from 0 to 5 for inflammatory cell infiltration, acinar changes, and interstitial fibrosis. Infiltrated mast cells were observed by toluidine blue staining of rat prostate tissue. Chemokine C-C motif ligand 2 (CCL2) levels of the rat prostates were measured by ELISA. T. vaginalis trophozoites were observed in acini in the prostates of the injected rats. The prostate tissues had higher pathological scores, and 83% (5/6) and 100% (6/6) of the ventral and dorsolateral lobes (n = 6), respectively, were inflamed. Infiltration and degranulation of mast cells were observed at higher rates in prostate sections of the T. vaginalis-infected rats. Also, prostate tissues of the injected rats had increased CCL2 levels. Injection of T. vaginalis in rats caused prostatitis as revealed by pathologic changes, mast cell infiltration and increased CCL2 production. Therefore, this study provides the first evidence that T. vaginalis infection in rats causes prostatitis.

Fractal and stereological analyses of insulin-induced rat exocrine pancreas remodelling.

The effect of insulin on the endocrine pancreas has been the subject of extensive study, but quantitative morphometric investigations of the exocrine pancreas are scarce. This study was therefore undertaken to investigate the effect of acute and chronic insulin administration (two doses, 0.4 IU and 4 IU) on the morphology of rat pancreas acini. Semi-fine sections stained with methylene blue and basic fuchsine or haematoxylin and eosin-stained 5-micrometer thick paraffin sections were used for fractal and stereological analysis of exocrine acini. Acute insulin treatment, independent of applied doses increased fractal dimension in line with decreased lacunarity of pancreas acini. Chronic low dose insulin decreased fractal dimension and increased lacunarity of pancreas acini, but a high dose had the opposite effect. The volume densities (Vv) of cytoplasm, granules and nucleus are affected differently: acute low dose and high chronic dose significantly decreased granules Vv, and in line increased cytoplasmic Vv, whereas other examined structures showed slight changes without statistical significance. The results obtained from this investigation indicate that insulin treatment induced structural remodelling of the exocrine pancreas suggesting a substantial role of insulin in its functioning. Additionally, we showed that fine architectural changes in acini could be detected by fractal analysis, suggesting this method as an alternative or addition to routine stereology.

Functional shift with maintained regenerative potential following portal vein ligation

Selective portal vein ligation (PVL) allows the two-stage surgical resection of primarily unresectable liver tumours by generating the atrophy and hypertrophy of portally ligated (LL) and non-ligated lobes (NLL), respectively. To evaluate critically important underlying functional alterations, present study characterised in vitro and vivo liver function in male Wistar rats (n = 106; 210–250 g) before, and 24/48/72/168/336 h after PVL. Lobe weights and volumes by magnetic resonance imaging confirmed the atrophy-hypertrophy complex. Proper expression and localization of key liver transporters (Ntcp, Bsep) and tight junction protein ZO-1 in isolated hepatocytes demonstrated constantly present viable and well-polarised cells in both lobes. In vitro taurocholate and bilirubin transport, as well as in vivo immunohistochemical Ntcp and Mrp2 expressions were bilaterally temporarily diminished, whereas LL and NLL structural acinar changes were divergent. In vivo bile and bilirubin-glucuronide excretion mirrored macroscopic changes, whereas serum bilirubin levels remained unaffected. In vivo functional imaging (indocyanine-green clearance test; 99mTc-mebrofenin hepatobiliary scintigraphy; confocal laser endomicroscopy) indicated transitionally reduced global liver uptake and -excretion. While LL functional involution was permanent, NLL uptake and excretory functions recovered excessively. Following PVL, functioning cells remain even in LL. Despite extensive bilateral morpho-functional changes, NLL functional increment restores temporary declined transport functions, emphasising liver functional assessment.

Abstract 3461: The Nek2 mitotic kinase drives centrosome amplification, mitotic dysfunction, and invasion in mammary epithelial and breast cancer cells

Abstract Despite findings reported by The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) that the most common human tumors have undergone at least one genomic doubling, the roles of polyploidy and chromosome instability (CIN) in cancer are poorly understood. Defective mitosis, and centrosome amplification (CA) are major sources of CIN, which generally associates with poor prognosis of patients. Prevalence of CA and CIN in hormone receptor negative (ER-PR-Her2- or ER-PR-Her2+) breast cancer patients, who have the poorest outcomes among all intrinsic subtypes, suggest that CA and CIN play major roles in the disease. CA in breast cancers correlates with poor survival, metastasis and high tumor grade, suggesting roles in tumor progression. Our laboratory, using an inducible K-RasG12D transgenic mouse that directed its expression to mammary epithelial cells, demonstrated CA appeared in precancerous mammary epithelial lesions, suggesting a role in tumor initiation. Despite these observations, the role of CA as cancer driver or promoter has not been tested experimentally. To understand that role, drivers of CA in cancer must be identified, and our laboratory showed that dysregulated E2F1, E2F2 and E2F3a, and their mitotic targets, including Nek2, TTK, and SgoI sustain CA and CIN in mammary epithelial and breast cancer cells. In fact, orthotopic models of breast cancer demonstrated that silencing of E2F3 leads to slow tumor growth that correlates with reduced mitosis, CA and Nek2 levels. We find that overexpression of the E2F target Nek2 in non-transformed mammary epithelial cells results in large acinar structures, CA, CIN, and changes in relevant EMT markers that include vimentin. Our findings indicate that deregulated E2F pathway contribute to mammary tumorigenesis in part by deregulating kinases that control mitosis, including Nek2, and in turn these affect mitotic progression, CIN, EMT and invasion. Thus, centrosome/kinases downstream of the E2F pathway may represent future targets for intervention in highly-malignant HR- breast cancers. Citation Format: Yainyrette Rivera-Rivera, Mihaela Marina, Miyoung Lee, Harold I. Saavedra. The Nek2 mitotic kinase drives centrosome amplification, mitotic dysfunction, and invasion in mammary epithelial and breast cancer cells [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2017; 2017 Apr 1-5; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2017;77(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 3461. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2017-3461

Capsaicin induced histological and ultrastructural changes in the submandibular salivary gland of albino rats

Capsaicin is a pungent principle of hot red pepper. It is used in spices, food additives and drugs. In the present work, twenty rats were divided into two groups: control and capsaicin groups, each consisting of ten rats. The capsaicin group daily received a capsaicin dose equivalent to 0.1 mg/kg body weight dissolved in 0.5 ml distilled water by oro-oesophageal tube while the control group daily received 0.5 ml distilled water. After twenty one days, the submandibular salivary glands of both sides were excised, processed and examined histologically and ultrastructurally. Histological results revealed presence of pure mucous acini in the submandibular salivary gland. Some granular convoluted tubules showed degeneration while the excretory ducts showed loss of pseudostratification with the appearance of some flattened lining cells. Concerning the ultrastructural findings, some acinar cells showed dilated rough endoplasmic reticulum, other presented ultrastructural features similar to mucous acini. Granular convoluted tubules cells showed some irregular, shrunken nuclei with condensed chromatin. Their secretory granules were less electrondense than the control and presented ill-defined and fused outlines. Some of the excretory duct lining cells showed apically displaced irregular nuclei. One to two rows of flattened epithelial cells were observed apical to the lining cells. Vacuolizations, mitochondrial swelling and loss of cristae were detected in cells of some acini, granular convoluted tubules and excretory ducts. Most intercalated and striated duct cells showed ultrastructural features similar to that of control group. However, the basal part of some striated duct cells presented variable grades of mitochondrial affection.From the present work, it could be concluded that chronic capsaicin intake was associated with noticeable histological and ultrastructural changes in acini, granular convoluted tubules and excretory ducts of the SMSG in albino rats.

Effect of <i>Phellodendron chinense</i> Schneid Extract on Chronic Bacterial Prostatitis Induced by Chlamydia in Rats

Purpose: To explore the effects of Phellodendron chinense Schneid (PCS) extract on chlamydiainduced chronic bacterial prostatitis (CBP). Methods: Sixty 8-week-old male Sprague-Dawley rats were used in this study. Prostate index (PI) and prostate specific antigen (PSA) were determined after 4 weeks of oral administration of PCS extract (80, 160 or 320 mg/kg) or tetracycline (80 mg/kg) and compared to PI and PSA in untreated rats with CBP and healthy control rats (n = 10). Chronic inflammatory cell infiltrates, acinar changes, and interstitial fibrosis were evaluated by histopathological examination. In addition, pertinent inflammatory factors, including tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), prostaglandin E2 (PEG2), transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1), and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), were measured in prostate tissues using ELISA kits. Results: High doses of PCS (160 and 320 mg/kg) significantly decreased PI and PSA relative to model group (p < 0.01). PCS treatment also significantly reduced chronic inflammatory cell infiltrates and interstitial fibrosis in prostate tissue of CBP rats. In addition, TNF-α, IL-1β, COX-2, PEG2, TGF-β1, and CTGF decreased in PCS-treated rats compared to untreated control (p < 0.01). Conclusion: PCS extract has significant anti-inflammatory effects on chlamydia-induced CBP. Keywords: Phellodendron chinense Schneid, Bacterial prostatitis, Inflammatory factors, Morphometric analysis, Interstitial fibrosis, Prostate specific antigen, Prostate index

Efficacy of Compound Therapy by Ginseng and Ciprofloxacin on Bacterial Prostatitis.

Genitourinary tract infections play a significant role in male infertility. Infections of reproductive sex glands, such as the prostate, impair function and indirectly affect male fertility. The general aim of this study is to investigate the protective effect of Korean red ginseng (KRG) on prostatitis in male rats treated with ciprofloxacin (CIPX). In this experimental study, we randomly divided 72 two male Wistar rats into 9 groups. The groups were treated as follows for 10 days: i. Control (no medication), ii. Sham [(normal saline injection into the vas deferens and oral administration of phosphate-buffered saline (PBS)], iii. Ginseng, iv. CPIX, v. CIPX+ginseng, vi. Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (E. coli) (UPEC), vii. UPEC+ginseng, viii. UPEC+CIPX, and ix. UPEC+ginseng+CIPX. The rats were killed 14 days after the last injection and the prostate glands were removed. After sample preparation, routine histology was performed using hematoxylin and eosin staining. The terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase mediated dUTP-biotin nick end labeling (TUNEL) method was used to determine the presence of apoptotic cells. The severity score for acinar changes and inflammatory cell infiltration in the UPEC+CIPX group did not significantly different from the UPEC group. However this score significantly decreased in the UPEC+CIPX+ginseng group compared to the UPEC group. Apoptotic index of all ginseng treated groups significantly decreased compared to the UPEC and CPIX groups. These results suggested that ginseng might be an effective adjunct in CIPX treatment of prostatitis. The combined use ginseng and CIPX was more effective than ginseng or CIPX alone.

Minor Salivary Gland Changes in Oral Epithelial Dysplasia and Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma - A Histopathological Study.

The most common etiology for Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC) is tobacco and tobacco related products which cause nuclear damage to the keratinocytes. The chemical carcinogens not only affect the lining of oral epithelium but also affect the lining epithelium of the excretory ducts of the salivary glands. Thus, there is a possibility of epithelial dysplasia of the salivary duct epithelium which may lead to potential malignant transformation. The study was performed to see the changes in the minor salivary glands and excretory ducts in cases of oral epithelial dysplasia and OSCC. A total of 278 archival cases of mild, moderate and severe epithelial dysplasia, carcinoma in situ, OSCC including verrucous carcinoma were histopathologically evaluated to observe changes in the excretory ducts and the minor salivary glands. In the study there were 56.5% males and 43.5% females. The age group that was most commonly affected in both the sexes was 50-60 yr old. Buccal mucosa was the most common site of involvement. Ductal changes observed in the excretory duct include simple hyperplasia, metaplastic changes such as mucous, oncocytic & squamous, and infiltration of inflammatory cells and malignant cells. Acinar changes observed were degeneration, squamous metaplasia, myoepithelial cell proliferation and inflammatory cell infiltration. Both the excretory ducts and ducts within the gland showed dysplasia. According to observations in our study it is suggested that histopathological interpretation for oral mucosal lesions especially oral epithelial dysplasias and OSCC should also include changes related to salivary gland tissue to provide a better treatment plan and prevent recurrence of the malignant tumours.

Unsteady diffusional screening in 3D pulmonary acinar structures: from infancy to adulthood

Diffusional screening in the lungs is a physical phenomenon where the specific topological arrangement of alveolated airways of the respiratory region leads to a depletion, or ‘screening’, of oxygen molecules with increasing acinar generation. Here, we revisit diffusional screening phenomena in anatomically-inspired pulmonary acinar models under realistic breathing maneuvers. By modelling 3D bifurcating alveolated airways capturing both convection and diffusion, unsteady oxygen transport is investigated under cyclic breathing motion. To evaluate screening characteristics in the developing lungs during growth, four representative stages of lung development were chosen (i.e. 3 months, 1 year and 9 months, 3 years and adulthood) that capture distinct morphological acinar changes spanning alveolarization phases to isotropic alveolar growth. Numerical simulations unveil the dramatic changes in O2 transport occurring during lung development, where young infants exhibit highest acinar efficiencies that rapidly converge with age to predictions at adulthood. With increased ventilatory effort, transient dynamics of oxygen transport is fundamentally altered compared to tidal breathing and emphasizes the augmented role of convection. Resolving the complex convective acinar flow patterns in 3D acinar trees allows for the first time a spatially-localized and time-resolved characterization of oxygen transport in the pulmonary acinus, from infancy to adulthood.

Effect of &lt;i&gt;Phellodendron chinense&lt;/i&gt; Extract on Carrageenan- Induced Chronic Prostatitis in Rats

Purpose: To investigate the effect of Phellodendron chinense Schneid (PCS) extracts on carrageenaninduced chronic prostatitis in rats.Methods: Experimental chronic non-bacterial prostatitis (CNP) was induced in rats by injecting carrageenan into prostatitis. Rats in treated groups were administered either PCS extract or positive control (cernilton) for 3 weeks while those in the control group received saline instead. After treatment, prostate index (PI) and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) of all rats were examined by ELISA. The degree of chronic inflammatory cell infiltrates, acinar changes and interstitial fibrosis were evaluated by histopathological examination. In addition, relative inflammatory factors, viz, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin1β (IL-1β), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), prostaglandin E2 (PEG2), transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) of prostate tissues of all the rats were measured by ELISA.Results: High-dose PCS (400 mg/kg) significantly decreased PI (1.0 ± 0.1 mg/ml) relative to reference group (2.1 ± 0.2, p &lt; 0.01) while high-dose PCS (400 mg/kg) significantly decreased PSA level (154.2 ± 14.3 pg/ml) relative to the reference group (312.5 ± 20.5 pg/ml, p &lt; 0.01). Morphometric analysis demonstrated the presence of chronic inflammatory cell infiltrates, and interstitial fibrosis decreased significantly compared to the reference group. Compared with reference group (165.4 ± 14.2 pg/ml), TNF-α level in the prostate tissues of high-dose PCS group rats decreased (116.5 ± 9.3) significantly (p &lt; 0.01). Similarly, compared with reference group (176.1 ± 12.1 pg/ml), IL-1β level of prostate tissues of high-dose PCS group rats decreased (97.6 ± 11.3) significantly (p &lt; 0.01).Conclusion: PCS extract has significant therapeutic effect on carrageenan-induced chronic prostatitis in rats.Keywords: Phellodendron chinense, Chronic prostatitis, Chronic inflammation

Histopathological and Ultrastructural Effect of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles on Male Wistar Rats Submandibular Glands

Nanotechnology applications have occurred rapidly. Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) have useful effects for their less hazards on the environment and for their application usages: paints, cosmetics, biomedicine and food as zinc supplements. ZnO NPs toxic effect is due to their tissue accumulation ability. Four ZnO NPs concentration levels effect was investigated on 75 male Wistar rats submandibular gland for 8 weeks. Treated groups histopathological sections showed progressive atrophy and degenerative changes in acini and striated ducts dilatation. Treated groups ultrathin sections showed small irregular nucleus, degenerated mitochondria, few zymogen granules, dilated rough endoplasmic reticulum and plenty of phagocytosed apoptotic bodies and lysozomes. Study results proved ZnO NPs toxicity as their doses are one of critical factors which are influencing their toxicity.

Multitargeted protective effect of Abacopteris penangiana against carrageenan-induced chronic prostatitis in rats

Ethnopharmacological relevanceAbacopteris penangiana (Hook.) Ching (AP) is traditionally used in Chinese medicine to promote blood circulation, remove blood stasis and dampness and for the treatment of edema and inflammation. In order to further support and develop the traditional use of Abacopteris penangiana as Chinese folk medicine, the aim of this study is to investigate the protective effect of the total flavanol glycosides (TFA) from AP and its acid hydrolysate (AHT) on chronic non-bacterial prostatitis (CNP) by measuring the levels of oxidative stress and inflammatory responses in rats. Materials and methodsFirst, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of AHT and TFA were investigated. Then the experimental chronic non-bacterial prostatitis was induced by carrageenan. The prostate index (PI) and prostate specific antigen (PSA) were determined. The activities of AHT and TFA on inhibiting free radicals and oxidative stress were investigated. Subsequently, the degree of chronic inflammatory cell infiltrates, acinar changes and interstitial fibrosis were evaluated by histopathological examination. In addition, the relative inflammatory factors, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin 1β (IL-1β), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), prostaglandin E2 (PEG2), transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) were measured. Finally, the prostatic expression of nuclear transcription factor-κB (NF-κB) was determined by immunohistochemistry and western blot analysis. ResultsThe whole results showed that AHT and TFA had strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. In CNP model, AHT and TFA successfully decreased PI and PSA. The activities of antioxidant enzymes in AHT or TFA group were enhanced. Additionally, a morphometric analysis of the prostate gland of AHT or TFA treated rats demonstrated a significant reduction in chronic inflammatory cell infiltrates and interstitial fibrosis compared to model group. The reduced values of TNF-α, IL-1β, COX-2, PEG2, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and nitric oxide (NO) were observed both in AHT and TFA treated groups. Moreover, the levels of TGF-β1 and CTGF in AHT and TFA treated groups were significantly decreased along with the alleviation of the inflammatory state of the prostate gland. Besides, the prostatic expression of NF-κB was inhibited. ConclusionsThese results suggest that AHT and TFA have anti-prostatitis properties via inhibiting oxidative stress, NF-κB dependent pro-inflammatory cytokines, fibrosis-related factors and antinociceptive activity. Hence, AP represents a potential herb for the treatment of prostatitis.

Effect of melatonin on contractile activity in intraurethrally instilled E. coli-induced acute prostatitis rat model

-1 day -1 ) on the contractile responses and the histopathologic changes. Results: The degrees of acute inflammatory cell infiltration, acinar changes, and interstitial fibrosis in the prostate glands indicated the development of acute prostatitis at 24 or 72 h after bacterial inoculation. These inflammatory changes were more pronounced at 72 h. Bacterial prostatitis attenuated contractile responses to electrical field stimulation, phenylephrine, or carbachol. The impairment in the contractions was more prominent at 72 h. Melatonin treatment reduced the pathologic changes and partially restored the contractile responses at 72 h of inflammation. Conclusion: Prostatic inflammation caused a diminution in the contractile mechanism of the prostate tissue and melatonin partially restored the contractile responses and histopathologic changes. Melatonin can be useful as an adjuvant to the main therapies for prostatitis to reduce the contractility problems.

Does eleuxin exert toxic effects on the prostate of adult male albino rats? Histological and immunohistochemical study

Background Eulexin (flutamide) is a pure nonsteroidal antiandrogen drug widely used in the treatment of prostatic cancer, hirsutism, and acne vulgaris. Aim of the work The aim of this work is to determine the histological and immunohistochemical effects of eleuxin on the prostate of adult albino rats. Materials and methods Thirty adult male albino rats were used and divided into a control group of six rats and an experimental group of 24 rats. This group was further subdivided into three subgroups (eight rats each). Each rat of the experimental subgroups received a daily dose of 67.5 mg/kg body weight of flutamide by the oral route. Animals were weighed and sacrificed after 2, 4, and 6 weeks. The prostate specimens were subjected to H&E, PAS reaction, and immunohistochemistry for androgen receptor (AR) and estrogen receptor (ER) localization. Statistical analysis of body weight and area % of the immunoreactivity of ARs and ERs was carried out. Results Eleuxin induced a significant reduction in the body weight of the rats of the experimental subgroups. Moreover, the experimental groups showed a significant decrease in the immunoreactivity of ARs and an increase in the immunoreactivity of the ERs. Early changes in acini were represented by folding of some areas of acini, whereas other acini were rudimentary after 2 weeks of treatment. Cystic dilatation of acini with a decrease in epithelial height was observed in acini treated for 4 weeks. Highly dilated and irregular acini with no stroma in between were observed after 6 weeks of treatment and there was an apparent acini decrease in the cell number with dilated and congested blood vessels. There was a decreased PAS reaction in the apical parts of epithelial cells with an irregular apparent thick basement membrane especially in the folded area. Conclusion Eleuxin exerted many histological effects on the prostate of adult albino rats. Further study is required to determine the effect of flutamide on the function of the male reproductive system, especially fertility.

Infrared Imaging of Meibomian Gland Structure Using a Novel Keratograph

To examine the ability of a novel non-contact device (Keratograph 4) to image the meibomian gland (MG) structures and their morphological changes in the upper and lower eyelids. Thirty-seven participants (mean age 57.8 ± 8.5 years; 3 males and 34 females) completed the Ocular Surface Disease Index questionnaire to assess dryness symptoms. Meibum secretion quality score, number of blocked gland orifices, and meibum expressibility scores were assessed. The lower lid (LL) and upper lid (UL) of all subjects were everted and images of the MGs were taken using the Keratograph 4 (OCULUS). A MG dropout score (MGDS) due to complete or partial gland loss of both lids was obtained using a subjective 4-grade scoring system, and digital analysis of the images using ImageJ was performed. Presence of tortuosity and visible acinar changes of the MGs were also noted. MGDS for both lids was significantly positively correlated with the Ocular Surface Disease Index score (r = 0.51; p < 0.05). The MGDS determined using the digital grading was also significantly positively correlated (UL: r = 0.68, p < 0.05; LL: r = 0.42, p < 0.05). The sum of the MGDS for both lids using the subjective grading scale was significantly different between the non-MGD and MGD group (1.3 ± 1.0 vs. 3.1 ± 1.1; p = 0.0004). MGDS assessment using the digital grading was significantly different between non-MGD (UL = 6%, LL = 8%) and MGD group (UL = 32%, LL = 42%; p = 0.001). Tortuous MG was observed only on the UL in 6% of the participants. Visible acinar changes were noted in 40% of the study participants. Infrared meibography is now possible in a clinical setting using commercially available devices, and meibography can help determine differences in MG structure in subjects symptomatic of dry eye.