Wistar Albino Research Articles

Can the use of vitamin D-fortified sunscreen cream be the solution to the vitamin D deficiency pandemic?

Current approaches to vitamin D supplementation are generally limited to its oral intake. In this experimental study, the effects of applying vitamin D-fortified sunscreen creams to the skin on the absorption, and therefore levels of serum vitamin D metabolites were investigated. Forty 8-week-old male Wistar Albino rats were used in the study. Eight rats (Group B) were sacrificed to determine the baseline values of biochemical parameters. The remaining 32 rats were randomly divided into 4 equal groups as follows: Group S, only the back skin of the rats were shaved; Group SD, only vitamin D3 diluted with sunflower oil was applied to the shaved area; Group SC, only sunscreen cream was applied to the shaved area; and Group SDC, sunscreen cream fortified with vitamin D3 was applied to the shaved area. Serum 25(OH)D3 and 24,25(OH)2D3 levels were determined at the end of 8 weeks. Mean (± SD) serum 25(OH)D3 levels of groups B, S, SD, SC, and SDC were determined as 17.7 ± 5.7, 13.5 ± 3.1, 54.1 ± 13.0, 19.6 ± 2.7, 67.2 ± 16.5 ng/mL, respectively. There were statistically significant differences in serum 25(OH)D3 values between groups S and SD (p < 0.001) and between groups SC and SDC (p = 0.002). A positive correlation was found between serum 25(OH)D3 and 24,25(OH)2D3 parameters (r = 0.772; p < 0.001). With this study, it was concluded that vitamin D-fortified sunscreen cream increases serum vitamin D levels by exerting transdermal activity. Further studies are required to confirm this observations.

Deferiprone ameliorates cisplatin induced peripheral neurotoxicity via ferritinophagy adjustment

Abstract Cisplatin-induced neurotoxicity is one of the limiting factors to its use especially in tumors that demand high drug dosage. One of the Cisplatin pathways is ferritinophagy which may end up in ferroptosis. So, we aimed to use iron chelator as a new strategy based on an anti-ferroptotic mechanism and to evaluate its neuroprotective effect against polyneuropathy in Cisplatin-treated rats. Twenty-four male Wistar albino rats were arranged into four groups: (I) Control group, rats were given vehicle; (II) Def group, rats received deferiprone (200 mg/kg orally once daily for 10 days); (III) Cis group, rats were injected by Cis 2 mg/Kg once daily for 3 consecutive days i.p.; and (IV) Cis + Def group, rats received deferiprone (200 mg/kg orally once daily for 10 days, rats were injected with Cis in the 4th, 5th, and 6th days). Cis increased and upregulated ferritinophagy inducers significantly including MDA, NCOA4, and IREB1 as compared to the control group. On the other hand, GSH, GPX4, SLCA11 and FTH1 were decreased and down regulated significantly compared to the control group. In addition to significant deterioration in the histopathological and immunological nerve tissue assessment using silver stain and PNCA. Embracing the cisplatin dosage with deferiprone reversed cisplatin-induced neuropathy, in which the physiological function significantly improved along with the immune and histopathology of nerve tissue. This was accompanied by down regulation of ferritinophagy inducers and enhancing ferritinophagy inhibitors. The current results concluded that rapping cisplatin with deferiprone can mitigate neurotoxicity induced by cisplatin in experimental animals through ferritinophagy pathway adjustment.

The Protective Effect of Boric Acid Against High Fructose-Induced Liver and Kidney Damage in Rats.

This study aimed to determine the protective role of boric acid (BA) in high fructose (HF)-induced liver and kidney toxicity in a young rat model. High-fructose consumption causes serious damage to liver and kidney tissue in healthy individuals and contributes to the emergence of various metabolic diseases. Thirty-two healthy female Wistar albino rats (250-300g weight and 3-4months) were randomly distributed into four equal groups (n = 8): control, high fructose % 20 (HF), boric acid 20mg/kg (BA), and HF + BA. High fructose was freshly prepared and administered to the rats as 20g of D-fructose dissolved in 100mL of tap water daily for a duration of 30days. Boric acid (20mg/kg) was administered through gastric gavage throughout the 30-day study period. At the end of study, blood, liver, and kidney were collected from rats. The results indicated that high fructose induced increased glucose, total cholesterol, triglyceride, and urea levels in rat serum. Boric acid administration significantly decreased glucose, total cholesterol, triglyceride, and urea levels in HF + BA groups. The results indicated that high fructose-induced oxidative stress by increasing the level of MDA and by decreasing GSH levels, and CAT activity in the liver and kidney of rats. However, oral BA administration significantly decreased MDA levels and increased GSH levels, and CAT activity (p < 0.05). Furthermore, BA significantly reduced high fructose-induced histopathological and Immunohistochemistry alteration in the liver and kidney tissues. In conclusion, BA may prevent the oxidative imbalance and histopathological and immunohistochemical damage caused by high fructose in liver and kidney tissues in rats.

Pharmacodynamic interaction profile of apigenin with diclofenac in an experimental model of inflammation in rats

Objectives: Chronic use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs(NSAID’s) is often limited by their side effect, necessitating the development of safer therapeutic alternatives. Apigenin, A plant flavonoid, has shown potential in enhancing the efficacy of NSAIDs while potentially reducing their adverse effects. This study aimed to evaluate the synergistic effects of apigenin combined with a subtherapeutic dose of diclofenac on inflammation in a rat model, to determine whether such a combination can improve anti-inflammatory effectiveness and reduce the drug dose required. Materials and Methods: A total of 42 Wistar albino rats were randomised into seven groups to receive various treatments including control (normal saline), standard diclofenac (100 mg/kg), three doses of apigenin (10, 20 and 40 mg/kg), a subtherapeutic dose of diclofenac (50 mg/kg) and a combination of apigenin (20 mg/kg) with diclofenac (50 mg/kg). Inflammation was induced using carrageenan, and paw volume was measured at multiple time points to assess oedema. The percentage change from baseline paw volume and percentage protection against paw oedema was calculated for each group. Results: The study found that the combination of 20 mg/kg apigenin with 50 mg/kg diclofenac significantly enhanced the anti-inflammatory response, achieving a peak reduction in paw volume of up to 49.66% at 3 h post-administration. This was superior to the responses seen with apigenin or diclofenac alone, where the maximal dose of apigenin (40 mg/kg) only managed a peak reduction of 28.18%, and the standard dose of diclofenac (100 mg/kg) reached a peak inhibition of 66.66% at 6 h. The subtherapeutic dose of diclofenac (50 mg/kg), used alone, showed a lower peak effect of 21.47% at 3 h. These results underscore the enhanced efficacy of the combination therapy, potentially allowing for lower doses of diclofenac while maintaining effective anti-inflammatory action. Conclusion: The findings suggest that combining apigenin with diclofenac enhances anti-inflammatory responses, supporting the potential of flavonoid-NSAID combinations as more effective and safer anti-inflammatory therapies. Future studies should explore the long-term effects and mechanisms of action to fully understand the benefits and limitations of such combinations in managing chronic inflammation.

Effect of Jackfruıt Pulp Extract on Serum Nesfatın-1 and Vısfatın Levels in Streptozotocın-induced Rats

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of different amounts of jackfruit pulp extract (JPE) in the diets on serum nesfatin-1 and visfatin levels in Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced Type 1 diabetic rats. Methods: In this study, 64 adult male Wistar albino rats, aged between 8-10 weeks, were used. 8 groups were created, with 8 rats in each group: Control (C), J100 (JPE 100 mg/kg group given with oral gavage route of administration (OGRA), J200 (JPE 200 mg/kg group given with OGRA), J300 (JPE 300 mg/kg group given with OGRA); STZ 55 mg/kg i.p administered group, DJ100 (D+100 mg/kg JPE), DJ200 (D + 200 mg/kg JPE), DJ300 (D). + 300 mg/kg JPE). The study lasted a total of 31 days, including adaptation (7 days), induction of diabetes (3 days) and trial period (21 days). Blood samples were taken from the tail vein (Vena caudalis) of all subjects on days 0 and 21 of the study. Nesfatin-1 and visfatin levels in the serum samples were measured by ELISA method. Result: As a result, in the diabetes groups of our study, the most significant increase in the mean serum nesfatin-1 level and the most significant decrease in the mean serum visfatin level occurred in the DJ200 groups at the end of the 21st day due to the addition of JPE (p less than 0.05). As a result, it was concluded that JPE may be safe and beneficial when administered at a dose of 200 mg/kg in diabetic groups.

Does quercetin affect tendon healing? An experimental study in a rat model of Achilles tendon injury

PurposeThe objective of this study was to investigate the impact of quercetin, a potent antioxidant, on tendon healing utilizing a rat Achilles tendon injury model.Materials and methodsThe study involved 32 male Wistar-Albino rats, randomly split into experimental (quercetin) and control groups, each with 16 rats. A bilateral Achilles tenotomy model was applied, with the experimental group receiving quercetin and the control group receiving corn oil via oral gavage from surgery until sacrifice. One Achilles tendon per rat underwent histopathological and immunohistochemical evaluations, while the other underwent biomechanical analysis.ResultsTendons were evaluated histopathologically in terms of tenocyte, ground substance, collagen, and vascularity, and quercetin was observed to significantly increase tendon healing in the experimental group (p-values = 0.0232, 0.0128, 0.0272, 0.0307, respectively). In the immunohistochemical analysis, type I collagen, type III collagen, alpha smooth muscle actin (SMA), and Galectin-3 were evaluated, and it was observed that quercetin increased tendon healing (p-values = 0.0166, 0.0036, 0.0323, 0.0295, respectively). In the biomechanical analysis, the rupture strength was evaluated with six parameters (failure load, maximum energy, displacement, stiffness, ultimate stress, and strain), and it was observed that quercetin significantly increased the rupture strength (p-values = 0.032, 0.014, 0.026, 0.025, 0.045, 0.012, respectively).ConclusionQuercetin significantly enhanced tendon healing both biomechanically and immunohistochemically. However, further clinical studies are needed to understand its effects on human tendon healing, as this is the first study of its kind.

Hepatoprotective Effect of Honey and Green Tea on Atrazine Induced Hepatotoxicity in Albino Wistar Rats

Hepatoprotective Effect of Honey and Green Tea on Atrazine Induced Hepatotoxicity in Albino Wistar Rats

Cardioprotective Effects of Green Tea and Honey on Albino Wistar Rats Exposed to Atrazine

Cardioprotective Effects of Green Tea and Honey on Albino Wistar Rats Exposed to Atrazine

The effect of sertraline-selenium combination on cardiac contractile strength

Objectives: Individuals with myocardial infarction (MI) frequently exhibit a heightened prevalence of depression, which elevates the likelihood of negative cardiovascular outcomes. This study aimed to assess the potential synergistic effects of sertraline, an antidepressant utilised for the prevention and treatment of depression commonly associated with cardiac disorders, and selenium, an antioxidant trace element, on atrial contraction force. Methods: Thirty-two adult male Wistar albino rats were randomly allocated into four groups. Atrial strips were positioned in the organ bath, and the tension was calibrated to 2 g. In the control group, isometric contractions were elicited using 10-3 M adrenaline, and the contractions were documented. Sertraline (S) was incrementally administered to the S group in dosages of 0.01 mM, 0.1 mM, 1 mM, and 2 mM. In the Selenium (Se) Group, selenium was incrementally administered at concentrations of 0.1, 1, 2, and 4 mmol/L. S+Se group, S cumulative (0.01 mM, 0.1 mM, 1 mM, 2 mM) and Se cumulative (0.1, 1, 2, 4) mmol/L were administered at fifteen-minute intervals. Results: The S group had a statistically significant reduction in contraction compared to the control group. Statistically substantial inhibition was noted in the Se group relative to the control group. Statistically significant contraction inhibition was noted in the S+Se group relative to the S group and Se group (P=0.035 and P=0.02, respectively). Conclusions: According to the results of our study, sertraline-selenium combination showed an effect by inhibition of cardiac Ca2+ channels in rat atrium. Additional research is needed to elucidate the mechanism of action of sertraline, which is used in the treatment of depression that often accompanies cardiac disorders, and selenium, an effective trace element with antioxidant properties.

Effect of amifostine on apoptotic inflammatory makers in cisplatin induced brain damage in rats.

To lessen the negative effects of the medication, we assessed the neuroprotective impact of amifostine nanoparticles against the neurotoxicity generated by cisplatin. 60 adult male albino Wistar rats were arranged into six groups. Group 1; received saline intraperitonealy (IP) and served as negative control. Group 2; received IP injection of silica nano-emulsion, Group 3 received cispatin for three consecutive days at the end of the study, Group 4 received amifostine intrapretonealy (IP) before cisplatin injection, Group 5 received silica nano-emulsion alone for one month, group 6 received silica nano-emulsion in combination with cisplatin for three consecutive days at the end of the study. Monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) were estimated by ELISA, butrylcholinesterase (BChE) by spectrophotometric method while caspase-3 as a marker of apoptosis by PCR. The mean levels of brain GFAP, MCP-1, and caspase-3 in the cisplatin group were considerably higher than those inthe control group. However, there was a drop in the averagelevel of brain BChE activity. Additionally, theinjection of (SiNPs@AMF+cisplatin) increased BChE activities while reducing GFAP, MCP-1, and caspase-3 levels, thereby reversing the negative effects of cisplatin on the brain tissue. On the other hand, the group treated with SiNPs@AMF+cisplatin showed improvement in overall brain structure and minimal pyknotic nuclei and apoptotic neurons were found. These outcomes demonstrated amifostine's ability to lessen the histological changes brought on by cisplatin. To sum up, SiNPs@AMF may be a suitable and secure supplemental treatment agent to lessen cisplatin's toxicity in the brain and enhance the treatment's effects throughout chemotherapy.

Development of PLGA-SPC3 functionalized Gefitinib mesoporous silica nano-scaffolds for breast cancer targeting: Biodistribution and Cytotoxicity analysis

The exploration of novel carriers for cancer treatments is on the rise, as drugs are often hindered by ineffective delivery to the tumor site. In the present study, Mesoporous silica nano scaffolds were developed by novel heat assisted hydrolysis (HAH) technique, and were functionalized using PLGA. These carriers were further loaded with nanosized Gefitinib (GTB). The surface properties of MSNs (GTB-PEG-PLGA-MSN) were enhanced using SPC3. The MSNs were characterized for pore volume, particle size, zeta potential (ZP), surface area, entrapment efficiency (%EE), and drug content. The invitro drug release kinetics, cytotoxicity analysis and invivo biodistribution studies were performed in optimized MSN using Albino Wistar rats. The result shows an increase in surface area, pore volume, %EE, and drug loading in MSN. In vitro cytotoxicity of optimized F5-GTB-PEG-PLGA-SPC3-MSN demonstrated a higher antitumor activity (43.84 ± 0.63%, p<0.05) in comparison to free drug. A higher accumulation of GTB was detected in liver (29,415 ± 126 ng) indicating significant biodistribution (p > 0.05). The invitro studies in MCF-7 cell line signify an increase in cell viability demonstrating its efficacy in breast cancer. Optimized F5-GTB-PEG-PLGA-SPC3-MSN offers improved cellular uptake, biodistribution and higher antitumor suppression with less toxicity. To conclude, HAH technique produced stable MSNs, and PLGA-SPC3 functionalized MSN nano scaffolds could be an ideal carrier for cancer drug delivery.

GCMS Analysis of Bioactive Compounds and Evaluation of Anti-parkinson Activity of Leaf Extract of Curculigo orchioides in Experimental Animals

Background: Curculigo orchioides Gaertn, a plant belonging to the Hypoxidaceae family, is well-known for its traditional uses of all plant parts. This plant is commonly known as golden eye grass, black musli, Kali musli, or Kali Musali. Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that is commonly observed in older adults. It is caused by a variety of mechanisms, including neuroinflammation, which results in the loss of dopamine release when triggered and causes motor symptoms. Methods: Ethanolic extract was prepared by shade-drying the leaves, making them into a coarse powder, and the extract was prepared by maceration technique with the help of ethanol. GCMS analysis and Haloperidol-induced Parkinsonism study were carried out to evaluate the antiParkinson activity in albino Wistar rats. Ethanolic extract of Curculigo orchioides was subjected to GCMS analysis. The National Institute of Standards and Technology database was used to interpret the mass spectrum of the GC-MS. The screening models were catalepsy, rotarod and a few in vitro models, namely the estimation of catalase acetylcholinesterase levels. The animals were divided into 6 groups, namely control, disease, standard (levodopa), low dose (100 mg/kg p.o.), medium dose (200 mg/kg p.o.), high dose (400 mg/kg p.o.) groups having 6 animals each were used for rotarod and catalepsy models for 14 days Results: The results obtained showed a dose-dependent increase in the anti-Parkinson activity. The evaluation of neuromuscular movements of the ethanolic leaf extract of Curculigo orchioides showed that the pre-treatment with different ranges of dose (100 mg/ml, 200 mg/kg, and 400 mg/kg) suggested a dose-dependent significant increase in fall-off time when compared with both standard and disease groups GCMS analysis revealed the presence of flavonoids, Vitamin and fatty acid esters. Conclusion: The anti-Parkinson activity of Flavonoids has been reported previously. Hence, the activity may be attributed to kaempferol-3-O-glucuronide.

The Possible effect of Bosentan on the methotrexate-induced salivary gland changes in male rats: histological and Immunohistochemical study.

Methotrexate (MTX) is an antimetabolite drug utilized for managing a variety of cancers and autoinflammatory conditions. MTX may trigger detrimental effects in mout, h tissues, including salivary gland impairment. Bosentan (BOS), a drug that blocks endothelin receptors, has strengthened antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties. The study aimed to estimate the protective effect of BOS on MTX-exacerbated salivary changes in Wistar Albino rats. Thirty male rats were arbitrarily sorted into three groups of ten animals each. The control group received a normal saline for 18days. The MTX (induction) group received MTX (25mg/kg) intraperitoneally on the 7th day of the experiment once daily for 6 consecutive days. The MTX + BOS group received BOS (50mg/kg) orally once a day for 18days: 6days before induction, 6days 2-h after induction, and 6days post-induction. Animals were euthanized on day 19, and salivary gland tissues were dissected for biochemical, histopathological, and immunohistochemical analyses. BOS dramatically improved MTX-aggravated biochemical and histopathological abnormalities, as evidenced by diminished Bax, caspase 3, TNF-α, IL-1β, MDA, and MPO levels, increased SOD, GSH, and GPX levels, and reduced degenerative changes in the granular convolute tubule, mucous acini, and striate duct. BOS further substantially upregulated MTX-induced decline of the Ki-67 and Bcl-2, as indicated by immunohistochemistry scoring methods. The anti-oxidative, ant-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic properties of BOS are a promising strategy for ameliorating the toxic effect of MTX on submandibular glandular tissues.

Memory-Enhancing and Anxiolytic Effects of the Rose of Jericho on Sleep Deprivation-Related Cognitive and Behavioral Changes.

Sleep is a crucial physiological phenomenon that enables the body to engage in restoration and rejuvenation. Remarkably, even limited periods of sleep deprivation (SD) can adversely affect cognitive functions such as memory retention, emotional regulation, data processing, and concentration. The Rose of Jericho (RoJ) has been considered more than a plant and has demonstrated potential therapeutic actions in childbirth, respiratory diseases, gastrointestinal disorders, and cancer.The effect of the RoJ on memory, cognition, and behavior has not yet been well-studied. The present study aimed to investigate the possible therapeutic effects of the RoJ on memory, cognition, behavior, and motor coordination in a rat model of SD. Thirty male Wistar albino rats weighing 120-150 g were used in the present study. The rats were acclimatized and trained and then randomly divided into three groups: control (C), sleep-deprived (SD), and SD treated with RoJ (SD+RoJ). Spatial memory and learning were assessed using the Morris Water Maze (MWM) test, while anxiety-related behaviors were evaluated through the Elevated Plus Maze (EPM) test. The rotarod test was used to assess motor coordination. The study revealed significant behavioral and cognitive performance improvements with the SD+RoJ group across all the tests. In the MWM test, the SD group exhibited a marked increase in test duration (29.5 ± 3.57 sec) and a reduction in average speed (1.9 ± 0.3 cm/s) when compared to the C group (13.41 ± 1.57 sec and 5.9 ± 0.34 cm/s, respectively). Interestingly, the SD+RoJ group significantly reduced test duration (19.75 ± 3.36 sec) and improved rats' speed (6.06 ± 0.27 cm/s) compared to the SD group. The EPM test demonstrated that the SD group spent significantly less time in the open arms (16.2 ± 9.44 sec) than the C group (59.8 ± 3.29 sec). Interestingly, the SD+RoJ group significantly improved the time spent in the open arms (45.8 ± 11.64 sec). Moreover, the SD+RoJ group showed notable improvement in open-arm entries (7 ± 2.39) compared to the SD group (1.6 ± 0.81). In the Rotarod test, the SD group demonstrated a significant decline in latency to fall (44.2 ± 9.5 sec) compared to the C group (228.67 ± 35.44 sec). The SD+RoJ group exhibited a significantly longer falling latency (165 ± 28.77 sec) than the SD group. Treatment with the RoJ alleviated SD-dependent cognitive impairment, anxiety, and decline in motor coordination. Supplementation with the RoJ may offer potential therapeutic benefits, including boosting memory, improving cognition, reducing anxiety and depression, andenhancing motor coordination.

Single and combined effect of chrysin and N-acetylcysteine against deltamethrin exposure in rats.

Effects of chrysin and N-acetylcysteine on deltamethrin exposure in rats were investigated. Eighty male Wistar Albino rats, weighing between 150 and 200g and aged 2-3 months, were used and evenly allocated into eight groups. The control group of rats received a corn oil vehicle. Chrysin (50mg/kg.bw), N-acetylcysteine (50mg/kg.bw), a combination of chrysin and N-acetylcysteine, deltamethrin (10mg/kg.bw), deltamethrin combined with chrysin, deltamethrin combined with N-acetylcysteine, and a combination of deltamethrin, chrysin, and N-acetylcysteine were administered via oral gavage for a duration of 21 days. Tissue (liver, kidney, brain, testis, heart, lung) and blood of oxidative stress markers (MDA, NO, GSH, SOD, CAT, GSH-Px, GR, GST, G6PD), hepatic caspase 3, 9 and p53 protein levels, biochemical parameters (glucose, triglyceride, cholesterol, BUN, creatinine, uric acid, total protein, albumin, LDH, AST, ALT, ALP, PChE activities/levels), as well as rat body/organ weights and plasma/liver deltamethrin concentrations. The administration of chrysin and N-acetylcysteine independently did not alter the assessed parameters. Significant differences were observed in most parameters assessed in the deltamethrin-alone group compared to the control group, whereas the parameter values in the groups treated with chrysin, NAC, or their combination with deltamethrin were similar to those of the control.

Acute and Subacute Toxicity Assessment of &lt;i&gt;Siddha&lt;/i&gt; Formulation &lt;i&gt;Navauppu Mezhugu&lt;/i&gt; (A Herbomineral Formulation) in Wistar Albino Rats

Background: Navauppu Mezhugu is a Herbo mineral Siddha formulation indicated for diseases such as soolai, Magotharam, Neerkovai, Visha vatham, Mudaku vatham, Kunmam anda vatham, vali vatham, parisavayu. Aim: This article elaborates on the acute and subacute toxicity profile of Navauppu Mezhugu Method: The study was conducted in Wistar Albino rats by administering the drug orally. Results: The acute toxicity study revealed Navauppu Mezhugu produced no toxicity in rats for a maximum dose of about 2000mg/kg b.wt. A sub-acute toxicity study revealed the investigational drug was safe for 28 days on a range of dosage forms 200mg/kg (low dose), 400mg/kg (middle dose) and 800mg/kg (High dose). Histopathological study revealed normal architecture maintenance of liver, kidney, heart and spleen. Conclusion: The results confirm the safety of Navauppu Mezhugu in dosage levels recommended in the literature. Major Findings: From acute oral toxicity study the maximum tolerable dose identified as 2000 mg/kg body weight. no mortality and no abnormal signs were noted in subacute toxicity study. Weight gain was observed in all the animals and decrease in the plasma glucose level, other parameters of lipid profile except HDL in all the animals of test group. Liver function was found normal.

Curcumin nanoparticles alleviate brain mitochondrial dysfunction and cellular senescence in γ-irradiated rats

Despite the diverse applications of γ radiation in radiotherapy, industrial processes, and sterilization, it causes hazardous effects on living organisms, such as cellular senescence, persistent cell cycle arrest, and mitochondrial dysfunction. This study evaluated the efficacy of curcumin nanoparticles (CNPs) in mitigating mitochondrial dysfunction and cellular senescence induced by γ radiation in rat brain tissues. Four groups of male Wistar albino rats (n = 8 per group) were included: (Gr1) the control group; (Gr2) the CNPs group (healthy rats receiving oral administration of curcumin nanoparticles at a dose of 10 mg/kg/day, three times per week for eight weeks); (Gr3) the irradiated group (rats exposed to a single dose of 10 Gy head γ irradiation); and (Gr4) the irradiated + CNPs group (irradiated rats treated with CNPs). The data obtained demonstrated that oral administration of CNPs for eight weeks attenuated oxidative stress in γ-irradiated rats by lowering the brain’s lipid peroxidation level [malondialdehyde (MDA)] and enhancing antioxidant markers [superoxide dismutase (SOD), reduced glutathione (GSH), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC)] (P < 0.05). In addition, CNPs significantly increased mitochondrial function by improving complex I, complex II, and ATP production levels compared to the irradiated group. In irradiated rats, CNPs also showed anti-neuroinflammatory effects by reducing brain interleukin 6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-ĸB) levels (P < 0.05). Moreover, CNPs administered to irradiated rats significantly reduced brain β-galactosidase activity and the expression levels of p53, p21, and p16 genes (P < 0.05) while concurrently inducing a significant increase in AMPK mRNA expression compared to the irradiated group. In conclusion, CNPs ameliorated the neurotoxicity of γ radiation and hold promise as a novel agent to delay cellular senescence via their combined antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and mitochondrial-enhancing properties.

Mu Opioid Agonistic Effect on Neuropeptide Gene Expression Levels Involved in Hypothalamic Feeding Regulation

Background: The regulation of food intake in the hypothalamus is one of most complicated through the integration of various neuroendocrine mechanisms. In this region, orexigenic and anorexigenic peptides play a role by responding to different stimuli. Additionally, central opioidergic systems are involved in the regulation of feeding behavior. Several neuropeptides expressed in the hypothalamus also contribute to the regulation of food intake. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of mu opioidergic agonist/antagonist molecules on both orexigenic and anorexigenic peptides gene expression levels in the hypothalamus. Methods: In our study, 48 male Wistar Albino rats were divided into 4 groups as control, morphine, naloxone and morphine+naloxone. The control group received subcutaneous SF solution for 5 days; morphine group received morphine at a dose of 10 mg/kg/day for 5 days; naloxone group SF was administered for 5 days and naloxone at a dose of 3 mg/kg 1.5 hours after the last injection: morphine+naloxone group received naloxone 1.5 hours after 5 days of morphine injection. Hypothalamus tissues were isolated from brains at the end of experimental period. Anorexigenic and orexigenic peptide expression levels were analysed by RT-PCR method. Differences between groups were statistically analyzed using one-way factorial ANOVA and Tukey post-hoc test. Results: Morphine administration results in a decrease in the expression levels of OX2R and LepR genes, but did not change ORXA, OX1R, AgRP, NPY, POMC gene expression. Naloxone administration increased AgRP and NPY expression while decreasing OX2R, LepR and APLNR gene expression levels. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that morphine may affect the gene expression of molecules related to regulation of nutrition and metabolism in the hypothalamus. Further studies are needed to clarify the possible mechanistic effects of mu opiodergic activity on the central control of feeding in morphine dependence manner.

Phytochemical Constituents of Ocimum gratissimum extract and its effect against gastro-enteric bacteria on the intestinal linings of an albino Wister rats

Enteritis is the inflammation of the small intestines which could lead to diarrhea. Bacterial gastroenteritis is a digestive system problem caused by bacteria. The symptoms include nausea, vomiting, fever, abdominal cramps and diarrhea. These can be treated with antibiotics, but in recent times, especially in economically developing countries like Nigeria, these drugs have become extremely costly resulting to the low purchasing power of the greater populace. Antibiotic resistance due to abuse also necessitated a growing need for alternative and affordable source of anti-bacteria medication. Ocimum gratissimum leaves were collected, selected and pulverized, it was macerated in ethanol for 3days with intermediate agitation, filtered, and concentrated. The extract was subjected to LD50. Phytochemical analysis were done on the plants leaves to check for secondary metabolites. A pilot study of E.coli was carried out with 8 albino rats grouped into four. Different titrations of E.coli were administered intraperitoneal to the rats to determine the minimum amount of E.coli capable of infecting the rats, the stool sample was inoculated in a sterile broth and then cultured in an EMB agar plate selective for E.coli. After 24 hours culture, a 0.8 mL was selected as it showed the least colony. The extract of Ocimum gratissimum was formulated using 0.5%w/v, 1.25%w/v and 0.9% normal saline as control in Group A, B and C respectively. These were used to treat the 20 albino wistar rats grouped A to D (at n = 5). Group D Negative control was not infected with 0.8 mL of E.coli broth. The results showed that Ocimum gratissimum is rich in flavonoids, tannins, saponins, resins, terpenoids, alkaloids, fats and oils. Pictorial results of the histopathology shown that albino rats of group A and C have normal to mild intestinal tract, not erupted or distorted but that it is dose dependent as group B with 1.25%w/v extract restored the intestinal linings of the albino rats to that of the Negative control which was not infected intraperitoneal. Results proved that Ocimum gratissimum has activity against gastroenteritis bacteria E. coli and can serve as an alternative in treatment of bacteria enteritis as it is readily available and affordable.

Comparative Efficacy of Algan Hemostatic Agent Powder and Liquid Forms in Rat Tail Transection Model: A Controlled Experimental Study

Objective: The Algan Hemostatic Agent (AHA) is a bioabsorbable, multi-herbal medical agent formulated to manage bleeding from surgical procedures and traumatic wounds. It is designed to be used when conventional hemostatic methods, such as compression or ligation, fail to adequately control capillary, venous, or arterial bleeding. This study aims to assess the hemostatic efficacy of AHA in two formulations—powder and liquid—using a rat tail transection model. Materials and Methods: This study included 24 Wistar Albino rats aged 10–12 weeks and weighing 250–280 g, which were randomly divided into three experimental groups (n = 8/group): 1) AHA powder, 2) AHA liquid-impregnated gauze-sponge, and 3) control (treated with a physiological saline-soaked sponge). A standardized tail transection procedure was performed on each rat to induce bleeding. Immediately following the transection, the designated treatment for each group was applied directly to the hemorrhage site. Bleeding cessation was assessed at 20-second intervals, and if bleeding persisted, the application was repeated for up to two additional attempts. Hemostasis was considered unsuccessful if bleeding continued after three consecutive applications of the assigned treatment. Results: Significantly shorter bleeding times were observed in both AHA-treated groups compared to the control group. None of the rats in the control group achieved hemostasis following three applications of the physiological saline-soaked sponge. In the AHA powder group, all 8 rats (100%) achieved hemostasis within the first 20 seconds of the initial application. In the AHA liquid-impregnated gauze-sponge group, 6 out of 8 rats (75%) achieved hemostasis after the first application, while the remaining 2 rats (25%) stopped bleeding after the second application. Statistical analysis revealed a significant difference between the control group and the two AHA-treated groups (p &lt; 0.0001). Conclusions: These findings demonstrate the potential of AHA as a reliable hemostatic agent in both surgical settings and emergency situations where traditional methods are insufficient to control bleeding effectively. The rapid hemostasis achieved with AHA treatments suggests their utility in improving patient outcomes and minimizing blood loss in critical scenarios.