Male Wistar Albino Rats Research Articles

Effect of 6 GHz radiofrequency electromagnetic field on the development of fetal bones

ABSTRACT This study examined the impact of 6 GHz (0.054 W/kg SAR) Radiofrequency-Electromagnetic Field (RF-EMF) on prenatal bone development. In this study, 20 female and 20 male Wistar Albino rats divided into four groups. The Control group received no treatment, while in Group-I, only male rats were exposed to RF-EMF, female rats had no exposure. Group-II, both male and female rats received RF-EMF treatment. While in Group-III, only female rats were exposed to RF-EMF, male rats had no exposure. The exposure lasted 4 hours per day for 6 weeks. The rats were then allowed to mate within the group. After pregnancy, pregnant rats (Group-II and III) were exposed 4 hours per day for 18 days. On the 18th day of gestation, fetuses were removed and their weight and various lengths were measured. The skeletal system development of fetuses was examined with double skeletal staining method and assessed ossification in the extremities. In the study, fetal weights, head-tail length, occipital-frontal and parietal-parietal lengths significantly increased in all exposure groups when compared to the control group (p < 0.001). Although occipital-frontal length was smallest in Group-I, Group-II and Group-III were more higher than the control group (p < 0.001). The bones of the anterior and posterior extremities showed significant increases in length, ossification zone length, and ossification percentage in all experimental groups compared to the control group (p < 0.001). Our study showed that rats exposed to 6 GHz (0.054 W/kg) RF-EMF during the prenatal period had significant increases in bone development.

Exploring the Potential of Epigallocatechin Gallate in Combating Insulin Resistance and Diabetes

Background/Objectives: In this study, the potential effects are evaluated of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) on the prognosis of diabetes and insulin resistance. Methods: In an experiment, 35 male Wistar albino rats were used and in the streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats, the effects were examined of different doses (50 mg/kg, 100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg) of EGCG on metabolic parameters associated with diabetes and insulin resistance. Results: The findings show favorable effects of EGCG on fasting blood glucose levels, insulin secretion, insulin resistance, and beta cell function. In this study, it was observed that EGCG was able to significantly lower fasting blood glucose levels, especially at high doses (200 mg/kg), providing the most significant improvement. Furthermore, EGCG has been found to reduce insulin resistance and improve insulin sensitivity by increasing insulin secretion. When the biochemical parameters of increased insulin secretion are evaluated, it is also observed that it creates clinically significant changes. At doses of 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg, EGCG has the potential to help control diabetes by most effectively improving insulin resistance and beta cell function. The study results suggest that EGCG, especially at high doses, is an effective component in the treatment of diabetes and the management of insulin resistance. Conclusions: The inclusion of EGCG as a natural flavonoid in medical nutrition therapy may contribute to glycemic control and improve insulin sensitivity in individuals with diabetes. These findings suggest that EGCG may be used as an alternative option in the treatment of diabetes and future studies may further clarify the potential benefits in this area.

Boswellia serrate Gum Resin Mitigates Renal Toxicity: Role of TNF-α, Interleukins, TGF-β, and Lipid Peroxidation

Background and aim: Being a central organ in homeostasis and maintaining the health of the biological system, kidneys are exposed to variable toxicants. Long-term exposure to nephrotoxic molecules causes chronic renal damage that causes fibrosis and loss of function. Such damage can be initiated by oxidative stress which provokes inflammation. We aim at investigating the potential therapeutic effects of Boswellia serrata (BS) gum resin extract in managing CCl4-induced renal toxicity. Methods: Male Wistar albino rats were assigned to groups: healthy control; CCl4-treated (CCl4, twice/week, for 6 weeks); CCl4 + BS-treated: CCl4 for 6 weeks followed by BS (150 mg/kg/day) for 2 weeks; and CCl4 + Silymarin-treated: CCl4 for 6 weeks followed by Silymarin (100 mg/kg/day) for 2 weeks. Blood and kidney tissue were utilized to assess oxidative stress status, inflammatory cytokines, and histopathological changes. Results: BS treatment ameliorated signs of renal damage and fibrosis as it improved renal antioxidant status and renal function markers and significantly reduced the levels of inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-8 along with the fibrogenic marker TGF-β. Kidney tissues showed improved histological features after BS treatment. Conclusions: BS gum resin extract has significant therapeutic potential against CCl4-induced renal damage and fibrosis. These effects could be mediated via its previously reported antioxidant, free radical scavenging, and anti-inflammatory effects.

A Comprehensive Study on the Renal Protective Effects of Polyherbal Extract Formulation and Their Impact on Kidney Function in Rats

Background: The nephroprotective effects of herbal extracts have increasingly gained attention due to the rise in kidney diseases and the limitations of conventional treatments. This study explores the renal protective properties of a polyherbal extract formulation composed of Ziziphus spina-christi, Trigonella foenum-graecum and Nigella sativa (ZTN) in Wistar albino rats. Methods: Three groups of adult male and female Wistar albino rats consisting of the control group that received only water, another group was administered with 100 mg/kg of the polyherbal (ZTN herbal) formulation, while the last group was administered with 250 mg/kg of the ZTN polyherbal extract formulation. The treatments administered for 14 days and thereafter Kidney weight, uric acid, Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine levels were assessed to assess renal function. Histological analysis was conducted for tissue integrity evaluation. Result: The polyherbal extract formulation of ZTN induced a dose-dependent increase in kidney weight in both male and female rats. Uric acid levels decreased significantly in a dose-dependent manner, with the most substantial reduction at 250 mg/kg. BUN levels also showed a notable decrease, particularly at the higher dose, indicating enhanced renal function. Creatinine levels exhibited a significant dose-dependent reduction, with female rats showing higher baseline levels but greater overall reductions. Histological analysis revealed mild histological changes at 100 mg/mL and severe changes at 250 mg/mL. Histological changes include glomerular hypertrophy and tubular necrosis, more pronounced at higher doses. The polyherbal extract formulation of ZTN demonstrated significant nephroprotective effects, reducing uric acid, BUN and creatinine levels in a dose-dependent manner. Interestingly, an observation of gender-based differences occur in female rats showing higher baseline levels but greater reductions with treatment. These findings support the potential therapeutic use of polyherbal extracts in managing renal health, emphasizing the importance of dose regulation to avoid adverse effects.

Assessment of the Effects of Stone Herbal Mixture Drink on Liver Parameters

Background: Herbal treatments have been used for ages, across many countries and traditions to maintain health and treat diseases. Herbal medicines are sometimes seen as all-natural substitutes for traditional drugs, providing a possible means of advancing health and fitness. Investigating how herbal mixes affect various physiological characteristics, such as liver function, has drawn more attention in recent years. The stone herbal concoction under examination is made up of a number of plant-based ingredients, with unique therapeutic effects. Methods: Thirty-six (36) wistar rats in total, split into six (6) groups of six (6) animals each, participated in this experimental study: In Group 1, the control group received only water and top feed; in Group 2, the standard medication (Sylimarin, 140 mg/kg body weight) plus 0.30 ml of stone herbal mixture was given; in Group 3, 0.30 ml of stone herbal mixture was given; in Group 4, 0.25 ml was given; in Group 5, 0.20 ml was given; and in Group 6, 0.15 ml was given. The rats were ethically sacrificed by cervical dislocation after receiving the daily therapy for 21 days. Each rat's brachiocephalic artery was used to draw blood, which was then placed in a lithium haparin anticoagulant bottle and examined for liver parameters. Results: Group 3, 4, 5 &amp; 6 which contains 1000mg, 850mg, 650mg and 500mg of the stone herbal mixture showed significant increase of all liver enzymes when compared to the control group. Also, the group two administered with 1000mg of the stone herbal mixture and 140 mg of the standard drug, sylimarine totally reversed toxicity in all the liver function parameters (ALT, AST, ALP, GGT, Albumin, Total protein, Bilirubin, AFP, TNF) compared to the control group one. Groups 3, 4, 5 and 6 which contains 1000mg, 850mg, 650mg and 500mg of the stone herbal mixture showed significant decrease of Albumin, bilirubin and total protein with while the 500mg dose of herbal mixture in group 6 was increased. Conclusion: In conclusion, this study has unveiled valuable insights into the effects of the Stone Herbal Mixture on liver parameters in male albino Wistar rats. Our result demonstrated that the lowest dose of the stone herbal mixture which is 500 mg is tolerable with the liver as against other higher doses in this experiment.

Investigating the effects of co-exposure to noise and benzene on serum oxidative stress in rat

Occupational exposures are generally complex, workers are exposed with more than one hazardous agent in work environment. Combined exposure to noise and benzene is common in occupational environments. Sub-acute exposure to benzene vapors can induce oxidative stress in serum. Additionally, noise exposure leads to non-auditory effects, such as oxidative stress. However, In the authors' research scope, a study aimed at investigating the effect of co-exposure to noise and benzene on the oxidative stress of rat serum has not been found. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of co-exposure to noise and benzene on oxidative stress.In this study, 24 Wistar albino male rats were divided into four groups: the control group (1), the group exposed to white noise with an intensity of 100dB and a frequency of 250-8KHz (2), the group exposed to benzene vapors with a concentration of 300 PPM (3), and the group co-exposed to white noise with an intensity of 100dB and benzene vapors with a concentration of 300 PPM. Oxidative stress induced was investigated by serum oxidative stress indices, including lipid peroxidation (MDA), total oxidative capacity (TOS), and antioxidant activity indices (SOD) and (GSH), as well as total antioxidant capacity (TAC).The results showed that exposure to noise and benzene, both separately and combined, can lead to oxidative stress in rat serum, increasing serum oxidant indices MDA and TOS while decreasing serum antioxidant indices TAC, SOD, and GSH was detected in groups exposed to noise and benzene. The findings indicate that the serum oxidative stress caused by the co- exposure to noise and benzene is significantly higher than separate exposure to noise or benzene, also Co-exposure to noise and benzene can have an almost additive effect on increasing serum oxidative stress in rats. This study highlights the importance of studying co-exposure to physical and chemical hazardous agents in the work environment.

The effect of calabash chalk on the gastrointestinal motility and transit time of male albino Wistar rat

The effect of calabash chalk on the gastrointestinal motility and transit time of male albino Wistar rat

Synergistic Protection of Vitamin B Complex and Alpha-Lipoic Acid Against Hepatic Ischemia–Reperfusion Injury: Boosting Antioxidant Defenses in Rats

This study aimed to investigate the protective effects of vitamin B complex and alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) pre-treatments on hepatic ischemia–reperfusion injury (IRI) in rats, focusing on their potential to enhance antioxidant defense mechanisms and reduce post-ischemic liver damage. Thirty male Wistar albino rats were divided into four groups: sham group (n = 10), IRI group (n = 10), vitamin B group (n = 10), vitamin B + ALA group (n = 10). In the IRI, vitamin B, and vitamin B + ALA groups, the rats underwent 45 min of hepatic ischemia followed by 60 min of reperfusion. Serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), urea, creatinine, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were measured. Additionally, serum total antioxidant status (TAS) and total oxidant status (TOS) were assessed, and the oxidative stress index (OSI) was calculated. Liver tissue samples were collected for morphological evaluation. In the vitamin B and vitamin B + ALA groups, ALT, AST, urea, creatinine and LDH levels were better compared with the IRI group but the difference was statistically significant for only LDH levels in the vitamin B group and ALT, urea, and LDH levels in the vitamin B + ALA group (p &lt; 0.05). The lowest TOS and OSI levels were reported in the vitamin B and vitamin B + ALA groups and these groups had statistically significantly higher TAS compared with the sham and IRI groups (p &lt; 0.05). Our findings suggest that a vitamin B complex alone or a vitamin B complex + ALA combination reduces post-ischemic hepatic injury by enhancing the anti-oxidative status. The low dose of ALA may be a co-factor in these results and studies with larger doses of ALA are required to determine its effects on IRI of the liver.

Toxicity assessment of copper oxide nanoparticles: In vivo study

Abstact Copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) have wide range of application in many fields of industry, agriculture, cosmetics, and health care with probable risk to human health. The present study was conducted to find the chronic toxicity of these nanoparticles in the vital organs. Male healthy Wister Albino rats were subjected on daily bases to 35 intraperitoneal administration of 25 nm CuO NPs (2 mg/kg). All animals were subjected to morphological, histological, histochemical, and ultrastructural examinations. Exposure to CuO NPs induced reduction in body weight gain, urine retention, back arching, and renal calculi formation. The renal tissues demonstrated tubular hydropic degeneration, glomerular hypercellularity, blood vessels congestion and dilatation, renal interstitial oedema, mitochondrial injury, and lysosomal hypertrophy. Conversely, the liver displayed hepatocyte insultation, sinusoidal dilatation, Kupffer cells hyperplasia, inflammatory cell infiltration, hepatocytes mitochondrial cristolysis, mitochondrial swelling, lysosomal hyperplasia, and nuclear alterations. Furthermore, the cardiac tissues demonstrated congestion, cardiocytes disarray, and disorganization. In addition, the neural tissue exhibited Purkinje cells degeneration and cerebral cortex spongiosis. The results suggest that CuO nanomaterials engage with the vital organs’ components, potentially leading to alterations that could affect the organs function. Further research is encouraged for better understanding the mechanisms involved in pathogenesis of CuO NPs.

'The effect of neuropeptide Y1 receptor agonist on hypothalamic neurogenesis in rat experimental depression model'.

Depression is responsible for neuropathies such as decreased neurogenesis and increased dendritic atrophy. There is information that antidepressant treatments have an effect by increasing hippocampal neurogenesis and neurotrophic factor expression. The neuropeptide Y1 (NPY1R) receptor agonist has been suggested to have anxiolytic effects. Based on this information, it was aimed to investigate the effect of NPY1R agonist on depression in rats with depression using the CMS model and to determine how depression affects cell proliferation in the hypothalamus and hypothalamic peptide levels. Forty-eight adult, male Wistar albino rats were divided into groups as Control, Depression (D), Depression + NPY1R and NPY1R. Various stressors were applied to D for 30 days. An open field test (OFT) and forced swim test (FST) were performed to check whether the animals were depressed. On the 16th day, an osmotic mini pump was placed under the skin and NPY1R (130 ul/kg/day) was applied for 15 days. Behavioral tests were performed, hypothalamic peptide gene expression levels were analyzed by quantitative RT-PCR and statistical evaluations were made using ANOVA. A decrease in the percentage of movement in the D and control groups were noted in the OFT, an increase in the immobility time in the D group in the FST, and an increase in swimming behavior in the DNPY1R group. The animals did not display any anxiety behavior based on the elevated plus maze test results. It caused a decrease in IGF1R, FGF2, POMC, NPY and GLUT2 gene expression in the hypothalamus of depression group animals, and an increase in NPY gene expression in NPY1R treatment. This study compellingly demonstrated that exposure to chronic mild stress simultaneously downregulates gene expression in the hypothalamus; we observed that NPY receptor NPY1R treatment increased the effect of NPY. Therefore, adjunctive treatments with appropriate molecules such as NPY, Y1 receptor agonists or pharmacological derivatives may have significant potential in the treatment of depression.

Time-Dependent Relationship Between Endothelial Dysfunction and High Blood Pressure in Fructose Drinking Rats.

This study aims to investigate the duration required for endothelium dysfunction to develop in the fructose drinking-induced hypertension and examine the relative contributions of endothelium-dependent relaxing factors to changes in mesenteric arterial reactivity in male Wistar Albino rats. Metabolic parameters (water intake and food consumption) and hemodynamic parameters systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP)-were monitored in vivo. Vascular reactivity was examined in the isolated organ bath. Endothelium-dependent relaxation (EDR) to acetylcholine was observed in the absence and presence of pharmacological inhibitors of endothelial nitric oxide (NO) synthase, cyclooxygenase, and KCa2.3 channels. Contractile responses to phenylephrine and relaxation of sodium nitroprusside (SNP) were also determined. A significant increase in daily water intake and decrease in food consumption were typically observed in rats treated with 10% fructose for 4 weeks (p < 0.05). SBP and DBP increased significantly as early as 2 weeks of induction and continued to rise gradually throughout the induction period (p < 0.05). Fructose consumption significantly impaired EDR at week 3 and worsened at week 4 (p < 0.05). Impairment of the KCa3.1 channel-mediated component of endothelium-dependent hyperpolarisation (EDH)-type relaxation contributed to worsening EDR, whereas the contribution of NO-mediated relaxation was not apparent compared with the controls. The reduction in EDH-type relaxation in fructose-fed rats appears to be partially compensated by increased NO sensitivity in the smooth muscle region, as fructose induction increased SNP relaxation compared with the control. These data provide evidence of early endothelial dysfunction developing concurrently with increased blood pressure in 10% fructose-fed rats. Decreased KCa3.1-mediated part of EDH-type relaxation appears to contribute to the impairment of endothelium-dependent vasorelaxation over time in this model.

Neuroprotective role of curcumin on the hippocampus against the oxidative stress and inflammation of streptozotocin-induced diabetes in rats.

In recent years, it has gained importance to determine the effects of diabetes on central nervous system complications. This study aimed to assess the neuroprotective properties of curcumin against neuronal damage in the rat hippocampus caused by diabetes. In accordance with this purpose, we investigated the effects of curcumin on oxidative/antioxidative parameters and pro-inflammatory cytokines in the hippocampal tissue of diabetic Wistar rats. For this purpose, 32 adults, male and healthy Wistar Albino rats were used. Animals were randomly divided into four separate groups: control (C), curcumin(Cu), diabetes (D) and Diabetes + Curcumin (DCu)-treated groups. 60mg/kg STZ i.p. A single dose was administered to D and DCu groups. Cu and DCu groups were given 50mg/kg/day curcumin by gavage. After four weeks of treatment, the animals were decapitated under anesthesia and tissue samples were taken for analyses of the parameters (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1, IL-10, MDA, SOD, catalase, and GSH activities) in the hippocampal tissue. TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1, and MDA levels were increased significantly (p < 0.05) in rats with diabetes compared to the other three groups. TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1, and MDA levels were lower in DCu group animals compared to the D group. It was determined that IL-10, SOD, Catalase, and GSH levels, which were significantly decreased in the D group, increased in the curcumin-supplemented diabetic group (DCu). The relevant sentence has been changed as follows. In conclusion, our findings from this study prove the protective effect of curcumin against diabetes-induced neuropathy in the hippocampus in rats with STZ-induced diabetes.

Ramadan fasting model modulates biomarkers of longevity and metabolism in male obese and non-obese rats

The health advantages of Ramadan fasting, a time-restricted eating from dawn to dusk, have garnered attention. Nevertheless, prior observational studies have found inconsistent findings because of challenges regulating variables such as sleep patterns, dietary habits, and physical activity. This study sought to investigate the impact of the Ramadan fasting model (RFM) on longevity and metabolic biomarkers in obese and non-obese rats. For 12 weeks, 48 male Wistar albino rats were separated into two groups and fed either a standard or a high-fat diet (HFD). During the final four weeks, rats in each group were separated into four subgroups to investigate the effect of RFM with/without training (on Treadmill) or glucose administration on the biomarkers of interest. The HFD groups subjected to RFM had significantly lower Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) and mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) serum, whereas AMPK, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidative stress serum levels were significantly higher. All groups reported decreased serum levels of Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-α) compared to the HFD control group. Furthermore, the Real-Time Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-qPCR) results indicated a significant elevation in the TP53 gene expression in groups subjected to RFM. The data indicate that RFM can improve longevity and metabolic biomarkers and reduce pro-inflammation and oxidative stress. Also, RFM improves anti-inflammatory and antioxidant markers in HFD-induced obese rats.

Histopathological Evaluation of the Anti-Obesity Effects of the Plant Kenger (Gundelia tournefortii L.) in an Experimental Model of Obesity Induced in Rats

In this study, the anti-obesity effects of Gundelia tournefortii extract were histopathologically investigated in experimental obesity induced by a high-calorie diet in rats. For this purpose, Wistar-Albino male rats were divided into four groups, each consisting of 10 rats: Control (C), High-Calorie Diet (HCD), High-Calorie Diet + Gundelia tournefortii 200 mg/kg (HCDG1), and High-Calorie Diet + Gundelia tournefortii 400 mg/kg (HCDG2). The study was conducted over a period of three months. Histopathological analyses of liver tissue samples revealed that the HCD group exhibited fatty degeneration, with coagulation necrosis observed in hepatocytes. In the HCDG1 group, the liver showed macro-microvesicular fat vacuoles in hepatocytes of the pericentral regions, although this accumulation was significantly milder compared to the HCD group. Conversely, the HCDG2 group displayed a histological appearance close to that of the control group, with only rare microvesicular fat vacuoles present in hepatocytes. In conclusion, it is suggested that the Gundelia tournefortii extract administered alongside a high-calorie diet has hepatoprotective effects, potentially attributed to the antioxidant properties of its active components.

Selenium ameliorates oxidized phospholipid-mediated testicular dysfunction and epididymal sperm abnormalities following Bisphenol A exposure in adult Wistar rats

Bisphenol A (BPA) is an endocrine-disrupting compound extensively utilized in the production of polycarbonate polymers and epoxy resins that, upon exposure, pose a significant threat to male reproductive health because of its estrogenic properties. Accumulating evidence suggests that BPA exposure disrupts the normal process of spermatogenesis, alters testicular morphology and function, and interferes with testicular steroidogenesis and hormonal signaling. However, the precise mechanism by which BPA affects testicular function remains unclear. In this study, we explored the mechanism underlying BPA-induced testicular abnormalities and evaluated the protective effects of Selenium (Se). Thirty-two adult male albino Wistar rats were divided into four groups, and BPA was administered at 50 mg/kg body weight, with or without Se supplementation, for 30 days. Se supplementation (2.5 mg/kg body weight) was initiated 1 week before BPA administration. BPA administration resulted in alterations in testicular architecture, characterized by basement membrane disintegration in the seminiferous tubules, reduced spermatogenic cell counts, and increased interstitial tubule noncellular space. Furthermore, BPA exposure increased the levels of oxidized phospholipids, lipid peroxides, and hydroxyl radicals and decreased the activities of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione reductase. In addition, BPA significantly reduced the activities of 3β- and 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases, interfering with testicular steroidogenesis. In rats, coadministration of Se and BPA reduced the levels of oxidized phospholipids and increased the activities of antioxidant enzymes, leading to improved testicular function and epididymal sperm parameters, suggesting that Se plays a critical role in alleviating endocrine disruptor-induced testicular dysfunctions in rats.

Neurprotective Role of Amaranthus Dubius on Penicillin Induced Experimental Epileptic Rat Model by Combating the Multineurotransmitter Deficiency

Objective: The study aims to clarify the protective effects of Amaranthus dubius (AD) in penicillin (PCN)-induced experimental epilepsy models in rats. Method: In this study, twenty-four adult male Wistar albino rats, each weighing between 200-250 grams, were utilized. The rats were allocated into four groups: a control group, an Amaranthus dubius (AD) treated control group, a PCN-induced experimental epileptic rat model group, and an AD pretreated PCN-induced experimental epileptic rat model group. All groups were administered a daily oral dosage of 400 mg/kg body weight of AD aqueous leaf extract for fourteen days via an orogastric cannula. For the experimental epileptic model, PCN was injected into designated areas of the somatosensory cortex. On the concluding fifteenth day, subsequently, the rats were humanely euthanized. Tissue specimens from the cerebral cortex (CC), cerebellum (CB), caudate nucleus (CN), pons and medulla (PM), and midbrain (MB) were extracted, measured, and homogenized to facilitate subsequent biochemical analyses. Result: Pretreatment with AD has demonstrated significant changes in the levels of antioxidants and neurotransmitters in the brain. Conclusion: Amaranthus Dubius aids in combating multi-neurotransmitter deficiencies and enhances the body's antioxidant capabilities.

The effect of silymarin on ischemia-reperfusion injury in skeletal muscles of rats silymarin and ischemia-reperfusion injury

Aim: Although the precise process is not entirely elucidated, it is well-known that oxidative stress mediators contribute to ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury. The impact of silymarin on I/R injury in many different tissues has been examined. For this purpose, we planned to see the effect of silymarin on muscle tissue in rats subjected to lower extremity I/R injury. Material and Methods: We used 18 male Wistar albino rats weighing 225-275 g. Each of the three groups of rats [Control (C), Ischemia-Reperfusion (I/R), and Silymarin-Ischemia/Reperfusion (S-I/R)] consisted of six rats. Silymarin was administered intraperitoneally 30 minutes before the procedure. (100 mg/kg-1) In Group I/R, the infrarenal abdominal aorta was clamped with a microvascular clamp. The clamp was removed after 120 minutes, and reperfusion was achieved for the next 120 minutes. At the end of the reperfusion period, muscle tissue samples were collected, and Malondialdehyde (MDA), catalase (CAT) enzyme activity levels and histopathological parameters were compared. Results: In the histopathological examination, no degeneration was observed in the muscle fibers in the Group C, while findings of striated muscle damage such as muscle atrophy/hypertrophy, muscle degeneration/congestion, internalization of the muscle nucleus/oval/central nucleus, fragmentation/hyalinization and leukocyte cell infiltration were seen in the Group I/R. In Group S-I/R, muscle atrophy /hypertrophy, internalization of the muscle nucleus/oval/central nucleus, fragmentation/hyalinization, and leukocyte cell infiltration were observed to improve these damaged areas compared to Group I/R. MDA levels in the Group I/R were significantly higher compared to Group C and S-I/R. The activity of the CAT enzyme was much higher in Group I/R compared to Group C. Conclusion: Our study revealed that 100 mg/kg-1 silymarin administered by intraperitoneal injection 30 minutes before ischemia effectively decreased lipid peroxidation, oxidative stress, and the injury caused by I/R in muscle histology in rats.

The degree of toxoplasmosis and testicular histomorphometry in rats

Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) ranks as the third most common parasitic parasite worldwide, and it is estimated that > 60% of the population is infected with T. gondii worldwide at some point in their lives. So. Therefore, it is highly curious that T. gondii could be a potential cause of idiopathic infertility that is incidental to male partners, who are responsible for nearly 50% of cases. Testicular histomorphometric analysis was developed to investigate fertility problems. The objective of this experimental study was to assess the impact of toxoplasmosis on spermatogenesis indicated by histomorphometric changes in rat testes and its correlation with the degree of infection in the brain. Ninety male Wistar albino rats were infected with T. gondii, and 30 male rats composed the control group. The studied parameters were investigated from the seventh week until the twelfth week postinfection by estimating the body weight, the weight of the testes, histopathological examination, and metric analysis of the testes. Each time, correlations were detected between the investigated parameters and the infection severity calculated by estimating the cyst burden in brain homogenates and brain lesion grading of stained histological sections.Our findings demonstrated a significant adverse impact of toxoplasmosis on absolute body weight, testis weight, and testis histomorphometry. The grading of brain lesions and the number of brain cysts paralleled each other. There was a reverse correlation between the gonado-somatic index and the number of brain cysts and brain lesion grade. There was a statistically significant correlation between the brain cyst count and the brain lesion grade and the indices 20 A, 20b, 250, and 200 of the testes metric analysis. Conclusion: Our results revealed that toxoplasmosis has an adverse impact on male rat spermatogenic cells, which in turn affects spermatogenesis and fertility. This impact is significantly correlated with the degree of latent infection in the brain.

Hepatoprotective Effect of Padina gymnospora in Albino Wistar Rat; A Biochemical and Histopathological Studies

The methanolic extract of brown algae, Padina gymnospora (PG) was tested for hepatoprotective properties against paracetamol (acetaminophen, APAP)-induced liver damage in male albino Wistar rat through in-vitro model. Liver is damaged by the variation of serum enzymatic and biochemical markers, such as serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (SGOT or AST), serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase (SGPT or ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), bilirubin, albumin, and lipid peroxidation and antioxidant status were measured by SOD and SDH. The study found that PG caused dose-dependent histopathological changes in the liver and kidney of the rats. While low doses caused minimal alterations, higher doses resulted in significant tissue damage. This suggests that, despite its therapeutic potential, careful consideration is needed regarding dosage to ensure safety. Acute toxicity studies revealed that the LD50 value exceeded 3 g/kg body weight. These results indicate that the methanolic extract of PG contains active compounds with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, detoxification support, liver regeneration, cholesterol regulation, prevention of liver fibrosis and hepatoprotective effects against high doses of paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity [Fig. 1].

Vancomycin-induced acute kidney injury in rats: beneficial effects deriving from the co-administration of tadalafil or vitamin C

Background: Vancomycin (VAN) is widely employed in clinical settings for the treatment of severe infections attributable to multi-resistant bacteria, with a notable emphasis on Gram-positive strains. However, its therapeutic usage is significantly hampered by the potential for acute kidney injury (AKI); specifically, the nephrotoxic effects it can exert. In controlled experimental studies, the intraperitoneal (i.p.) administration of VAN at a dose of 400 mg/kg/day over a consecutive seven-day period has been shown to induce considerable AKI in rats. In addressing this concern, vitamin C (VC), recognized traditionally for its antioxidant properties, has been utilized to mitigate various forms of organ damage and inflammatory responses, primarily by diminishing oxidative stress and attenuating inflammation. Concurrently, tadalafil (TAD), a phosphodiesterase type-5 inhibitor commonly associated with the treatment of erectile dysfunction, is also noted for its beneficial anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, alongside vasodilatory properties. Aim: This study was designed in order to investigate the protective capabilities of TAD or VC against the VAN-induced nephrotoxic effects in a rat model of AKI. Methodology: A total of 24 male albino Wistar rats were allocated into four distinct groups for the purpose of comparative analysis. Following treatment, both kidney and blood samples were obtained for further evaluation. The study randomized the rats into four categories: group 1 served as the control group, group 2 received VAN at a dosage of 400 mg/kg (via an i.p. injection on a daily basis), group 3 was administered VAN (400 mg/kg; i.p., daily) in conjunction with TAD at a dose of 5 mg/kg daily, and group 4 was given VAN (400 mg/kg; i.p., daily) alongside VC at a dosage of 200 mg/kg daily. Results: Evaluations included the measurement of renal function indicators such as the serum levels of urea, of creatinine, and the creatinine clearance. Additionally, the analysis involved the assessment of antioxidant markers in renal tissue homogenates, including malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione, and superoxide dismutase. To further elucidate the inflammatory response, indices such as the levels of the tumor necrosis factor-alpha, the interleukins (IL)-1β and IL-6, and the nuclear factor-κB were evaluated within the renal tissue homogenate samples of the studied rats. The administration of VAN resulted in a marked elevation of renal biomarkers and inflammatory indices, alongside a significant reduction in antioxidant levels, with an exception for MDA (which exhibited increased levels); these changes reached statistical significance (p&lt;0.05) when measured against the control group. In contrast, the supplementation with TAD or VC was effective in significantly lowering the serum levels of both renal and inflammatory indicators when compared to the group treated solely with VAN. Furthermore, antioxidant measurements improved, alongside a reduction in MDA levels, thereby demonstrating significant differences (p&lt;0.05). Conclusion: The findings of this study reveal that both TAD and VC provide a degree of renal protection against the VAN-induced damage by enhancing kidney function markers and, concurrently, lessening oxidative stress and inflammatory responses associated with nephrotoxicity.