Alterations In Hematological Parameters Research Articles

Combined Administration of l-Carnitine and Ascorbic Acid Ameliorates Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity in Rats

ABSTRACTObjectives: Cisplatin (CIS) is an effective antitumor drug. However, its clinical use is limited due to nephrotoxicity. l-Carnitine and vitamin C are both natural antioxidant that can be obtained from diets. This study investigated the effects of l-carnitine and/or vitamin C in rats against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity.Methods: Twenty-five male Wistar rats were divided into 5 groups of 5 rats each. Group 1, normal control. Group 2, positive control, received cisplatin (10 mg/kg/day intraperitoneally [i.p.]) for 3 days. Groups 3, 4, and 5 received cisplatin for 3 days and thereafter l-carnitine (50 mg/kg/day), vitamin C (100 mg/kg/day), or their combination, respectively, for 28 days. At the end of the study, a biochemical study was carried out in which nephrotoxicity markers, electrolytes, hematological indices, oxidative stress biomarkers, and renal histopathological alterations were evaluated.Results: CIS-treated rats developed significant polyuria, increase in the plasma levels of creatinine, urea, and inorganic phosphate (Pi), alteration in hematological parameters, and decrease in plasma levels of Na+, Cl−, K+, Ca2+, and Mg2+. Measurements of 24-hour urine output demonstrated markedly decreased creatinine and urea and increased Na+, Cl−, K+, Ca2+, and Mg2+ levels in the CIS-treated group, whereas Pi levels were not changed. It also caused significantly decreased catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels in the rats' kidneys. Histopathological scores revealed renal tubular damage in CIS-treated rats. However, l-carnitine, vitamin C, or their combination significantly attenuated the alterations caused by CIS in the plasma and kidneys of the rats.Conclusion: l-Carnitine and vitamin C administration ameliorated CIS-induced nephrotoxicity due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

OXIDATIVE STRESS AND MORPHOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT OF BONE MARROW IN MONOSODIUM GLUTAMATE-TREATED RAT

Excess consumption of monosodium glutamate (MSG) was reported to cause oxidative stress on brain, liver and renal and altered haematological parameters. Therefore, this study was aimed to investigate the effect of MSG on oxidative stress status on bone marrow of rats. Male Sprague-Dawley rats (n=24) weighing between 160-200 g were divided randomly into three groups: Control which was given distilled water (1 mg/kg), MSG 60 and MSG 120 which were given 60 mg/kg MSG and 120 mg/kg MSG, respectively. All substances were oral force fed for 28 days consecutively. At the end of the study, bone marrow cells were isolated by flushing technique for measurement of the oxidative stress status and bone marrow smear observation. Results showed that the superoxide dismutase activity and protein carbonyl level were significantly increased in MSG 120 group than to control and MSG 60 groups (p<0.05). Conversely, glutathione level had declined significantly in both MSG groups as compared to control group (p<0.05). The malondialdehyde level was not significantly affected in MSG groups than to control group. Bone marrow smear indicated no evidence of morphological alteration in all groups. In conclusion, MSG at both doses caused oxidative stress on bone marrow after 28 days of exposure.

Appliance of acute phase proteins, cytokines, biogram and hemogram as markers for nanoparticles-induced clinicopathological alterations

Objective: The goal of this study is to assess and confirm the clinical importance of measurement of positive and negative acute phase proteins parameters as biomarkers for inflammation; and alterations in blood picture induced by nanoparticles instead of back to tissue biopsy and histopathology. Methods: Rats were randomly grouped into three groups, 1st group acted as control group and received 1 ml/d distilled water; the 2nd group received 1 ml of distilled water containing iron oxide at 100 μg/kg concentrations using stomach tube; while the 3rd group received 1 ml of distilled water containing iron oxide at 150 μg/kg concentrations, for a period of 4 weeks. The clinic-pathological effects were observed by estimating the alterations in different functional parameters of the liver in serum using chemical kits and in the hematological parameters by using autohematology analyzer. Results: Alterations were in the form of significant elevations of AST, ALT and ALP enzyme activities; significant decreases in total and conjugated bilirubin; significant increases in all positive acute phase proteins and decreases in all negative acute phase ones; with significant increases in IL-1α, IL-6 and TNF-α cytokines and a disturbance in lipogram appearing as remarkable high total lipids, cholesterol, LDL-C, VLDL-C, with significant decrease in HDL-C. These results were associated with alterations in hematological parameters and occurrence of anemia in both 2nd and 3rd groups. Conclusion: Nanoparticles have double-edged sword that ultra-structure of these articles seem to have advantage in the treatment, but in the same time may cause marked injuries to the vital organs as liver and related functions.

Attenuation of Arsenic-Induced Dyslipidemia by Fruit Extract of Emblica Officinalis in Mice

Introduction: In our earlier studies, we reported that arsenic-induced enhanced oxidative stress, apoptosis, immunotoxicity and inflammation in the spleen and thymus of mice and hepatotoxicity have been protected through treatment with Emblica officinalis (amla). The present study is focused on to the efficacy of amla in mitigation of arsenic-induced dyslipidemia and alterations in inflammatory biomarkers in the blood of mice. Materials and Methods: Mice were randomly divided into four groups and treated with sodium arsenite (3 mg/kg b.w., per os), amla (500 mg/kg b.w., per os) and simultaneously with arsenic and amla daily for 30 days. Results: Arsenic treatment altered the hematological and lipid profile by increasing total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), phospholipid (PL) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels and decreasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels as compared to controls. Treatment with arsenic also disturbed the levels of inflammatory biomarkers. Concurrent treatment with arsenic and amla significantly restored serum TC level (0.83-fold), TG level (0.92-fold), LDL level (0.72-fold), PL level (1.29-fold), and increased HDL level (1.4-fold). Inflammatory cytokine levels were also corrected significantly as serum interleukin-8 level (0.6-fold) and C-reactive protein level decreased (0.7-fold) respectively, while interleukin-10 level was increased (1.5-fold) as compared to those treated with arsenic alone. The alterations in hematological parameters were also found to be normalized by treatment of amla. Conclusion: The results of the present study strengthen the fact that nutritional supplement of amla in arsenic affected areas might improve the adverse effects of arsenic on lipid profile.

<i>Brillantasia patula</i> Aqueous Leaf Extract Averts Hyperglycermia, Lipid Peroxidation, and Alterations in Hematological Parameters in Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Rats

The protective effects of aqueous leaf extract of Brillantasia patula against hyperglycermia, lipid peroxidation, and alterations in hematological parameters in diabetic Wistar rats were investigated. The study consisted of six treatment groups, with five animals each, designated as Group-1 (healthy), Group-2 (diabetic control) and Groups 3-6 (diabetic rats treated with 500, 1000, 1500, and 2000 mg/kgbwt of extract, respectively). Rats were administered their respective doses orally, and daily, for 14 days. Thereafter, the effects on serum glucose levels, liver and kidney functions, lipid peroxidation, free radical scavenger and hematological parameters were analyzed. Blood glucose levels reduced markedly in diabetic rats given the plant extract relative to diabetic control. Both serum creatinine and urea decreased significantly in treated diabetic rats at extract doses of 1000 mg/kgbwt and above. Reductions in serum cholesterol (p<0.05) and triglyceride levels (p<0.05) were also observed. Elevated total serum protein and globulin in diabetic control was decreased in all treated groups. Haematological indices of groups given the extract were noticeably enhanced. Similarly, kidney, heart and liver glutathione (GSH) levels increased significantly in groups treated compared to diabetic control; lipid peroxidation in kidney and heart also decreased significantly in all the treated groups. Liver catalase activity improved. Serum alanine and aspartate aminotransferases activities widely lowered in Groups 3 and 4. The study indicates that Brillantaisia patula aqueous leaf extract exhibits potential hypoglycemic effect, prevents lipid peroxidation, boosts haematological parameters, and could protect liver and renal damage associated with diabetes especially at doses of 500 - 1000 mg/kgbwt.

Hematological Indices of Patients with Retained Lead Pellets in the Craniomaxillofacial Region Following Gunshot Wounds.

Background:Acute and chronic environmental lead exposures are associated with alteration of hematological parameters. It is not known whether retained lead pellets have similar effects on hematological variables to environmental exposures.Objective:The objective of this study is to assess the effects of retained lead pellets on hematological indices in patients that sustained gunshot injuries to the craniomaxillofacial region.Patients and Methods:We examined individuals with retained pellets following gunshot injuries to the craniomaxillofacial region using a prospective cohort study design in a tertiary health center, Nigeria.Results:A total of 54 male individuals (27 in each group) enlisted in the study. The age of the patients and control subjects ranges from 20 to 58 years, with a mean age of 40.3 years. The mean blood lead levels (BLLs) of the exposed group were lower than the unexposed (P = 0.03). There were statistically significant (P < 0.05) variations in the hematological indices between the exposed and the unexposed groups. There was a significant association (P < 0.001) between the hematological indices assessed and the BLLs, number of retained pellets, and duration of retention. No basophilic stippling was observed in the red cell morphology of the individuals.Conclusion:Retained lead pellets cause significant elevated BLL and associated higher hematocrit, hemoglobin concentration, and mean cell volume.

Hematological cellular alterations in plateletpheresis donors

Aims: Blood contact with foreign surfaces in the apheresis systems may activate many cell types that return back to the donor. However, the safety issue regarding post-procedure platelet activation is not well assessed. We aimed to evaluate the alterations in hematological parameters and to explore the formation of platelets leukocytes aggregates (PLAs) and/or complexes in healthy donors who underwent first-time plateletpheresis procedure. Methods: Blood from 100 healthy donors were assessed by BD FACS Calibur flow cytometer for: a) detection of PLAs using (CD41, CD42b, CD61) antibodies against platelets surface molecules to detect its expression on neutrophils, monocytes, lymphocytes, and b) evaluation of red cell mechanical fragility (RBC-MF). Results: After donation a significant decrement of donor blood cell counts; the percent (%) reduction in hemoglobin (Hb) 7.9(5.1–9.2) (p = 0.017), hematocrit (Hct) 6(2.72-7.81) (p = 0.043) %, residual red cells (p = 0.016), platelet count (PLT) 22.7(9.5–32) (p = 0.031) together with a significant increase in the MPV (p = 0.001), the absolute neutrophil (p = 0.026) and lymphocyte count (p = 0.041) with an insignificant increase in absolute monocyte (p = 0.103), lymphocyte subsets count, CD4:CD8 ratio, and WBC count. However, there was significant increase in the median platelets complexed with neutrophil, lymphocytes, and monocytes. Conclusion: All donors had a significant drop in all blood counts; none of them manifested features of thrombocytopenia or anemia. However, an increase in PLAs formation provides an evidence of ongoing platelet activation, a platelet-leucocyte interaction that may induce a pre-thrombotic risk. This result is important to consider as it might have potential therapeutic implications. Nevertheless, more prospective studies are essential to establish guidelines for donor safety.

Protective Effect of Curcumin Against Adverse Effects of Meloxicam in Rats

The aim of the present study was to determine the adverse effects of meloxicam on lipid profile, glucose profile andhematology as well as the protective effect of curcumin in rats. Thirty-six male Wister albino rats were randomly dividedinto main four groups; Group (1): control (administered saline only 0.5 ml); Group (2): meloxicam was administeredintraperitoneally at level of 5.8 mg/kg body weight for 15 days; Group (3): curcumin extract was administered orally atlevel of 200 mg/kg body weight for 15 days; Group (4): were administered meloxicam intraperitoneally with oraladministration of curcumin extract for 15 days. The findings revealed that there were significant increase in serumcholesterol level and serum triglycerides level of rat given meloxicam. There were significant decrease in serumcholesterol level and serum triglycerides of rats administered meloxicam with curcumin group. There was a significantincrease in serum glucose level of rat given meloxicam. There was significant decrease in serum glucose level ofmeloxicam with curcumin group compared to meloxicam group. There was alteration in hematological parameters of ratgiven meloxicam. On the contrary, there was an improvement in hematological tests of meloxicam with curcumin groupand improvement of histopathological study compared to meloxicam. On conclusion, administration of meloxicamintraperitoneally 5.8 mg/kg body weight resulted in impairment in lipid profile, glucose profile and hematologicalparameters and these impairments could be improved by curcumin administration.

Anemia in Pregnancy: A Pragmatic Approach.

Anemia is common in pregnancy, ranging from 5.4% in developed countries to more than 80% in developing countries. Anemia in pregnancy has been associated with prematurity, low birth weight, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. This review uses clinical vignettes to illustrate the clinical presentations, approach to diagnosis, maternal and fetal implications, and treatment for the common etiologies of anemia in pregnancy. Literature review. Normal physiological changes in pregnancy result in alterations of hematological parameters particularly in a reduction of hemoglobin (Hb) concentration. Consequently, the Hb used to define anemia in pregnancy is lower than in nonpregnant patients. As there is an increased requirement of iron in pregnancy, it is not unexpected that iron deficiency remains the most common cause of anemia and warrants a preemptive approach to prevent a further reduction in Hb. The syndromes associated with microangiopathic hemolytic anemia may pose a diagnostic challenge, as there are several potential etiologies that may be difficult to differentiate, and microangiopathic hemolytic anemia can be associated with significant maternal and fetal morbidity andmortality. Anemia secondary to sickle cell disease and autoimmune hemolytic anemiamerit special attention because there are risks secondary to red blood cell transfusion and risks to withholding transfusion. Anemia in pregnancy is potentially associated with maternal and fetal adverse outcomes. Providing evidence-based care is essential to achieving the best pregnancy outcomes.

The ameliorating effects of selenium and vitamin C against fenitrothion-induced blood toxicity in Wistar rats

Fenitrothion is widely used organophosphate pesticide in agriculture and health programs, but besides, it causes several toxic effects. The present study was designed to evaluate the possible protective effects of selenium (0.5mg/kg b.w.) and vitamin C (100mg/kg b.w) on altered haematological, biochemical and oxidative stress parameters in the blood of rats orally treated with fenitrothion (20mg/kg b.w) for 30days. Fenitrothion caused changes in body weight, food and water intake, and some haematological and biochemical parameters. Fenitrothion altered the glutathione redox status (GSH and GSSG) and decreased activity of antioxidant enzymes (GSH-Px, GST, SOD and CAT), leading to a lipid peroxidation. Selenium and vitamin C, by improving the activity of antioxidants, reduced oxidative stress and a lipid peroxidation, maintaining the values of examined parameters to optimal levels. Therefore, selenium and vitamin C could be useful in providing protection of exposed non-target organisms including people from fenitrothion.

Antidiabetic potential of polyphenolic-rich fraction of Tamarindus indica seed coat in alloxan-induced diabetic rats.

Tamarindus is a monotypic genus and belongs to the subfamily Caesalpinioideae of the family Leguminosae (Fabaceae), Tamarindus indica L., commonly known as Tamarind tree is one of the most important multipurpose tropical fruit tree species in the India, Sudan, Nigeria, Bangladesh and entire subcontinent. Hydroethanolic seed coat extract of Tamarindus indica (HETI) was assessed for presence of phytoconstituents and selection of optimum dose through acute and sub acute toxicity study. The single and multidose (14 days) study were conducted to evaluate antidiabetic potential of HETI in alloxan induced rats via determine of blood glucose level, body weight, hematological profile, extra-pancreatic glucose utilization of isolated rat hemi-diaphragm as well as histopathology of rat pancreas. Phytochemical analysis of HETI showed the presence of polyphenol like flavonoids. Single and multidose of HETI significantly (p<0.05; p<0.001) reduced blood glucose level in normoglycaemic, glucose loaded and alloxan induced hyperglycaemic animals. HETI exerts the protective effect on pancreatic β-cells as per results obtained from histopathology of animals. Moreover, HETI increased glucose uptake in isolated rat hemi-diaphragm and prevents decrease in body weight along with recovery of altered hematological parameters. The study revealed that HETI have potent hypoglycaemic action by virtue of its phytoconstituents and it can be used as a herbal medicine for diabetes.

Sepsis induced by cecal ligation and perforation (CLP) alters nucleotidase activities in platelets of rats

Sepsis is a potentially lethal condition, and it is associated with platelet alterations. The present study sought to investigate the activity of ecto-nucleoside triphosphate diphosphohydrolase (E-NTPDase), E-5′-nucleotidase, and ecto-adenosine deaminase (E-ADA) in the platelets of rats that were induced with sepsis. Male Wistar rats were divided into three groups of ten animals each: a negative control group (normal; NC); a group that underwent surgical procedures (sham); and a group that underwent cecal ligation and perforation (CLP). The induction of sepsis was confirmed by bacteremia, and the causative pathogen identified was Escherichia coli. Hematological parameters showed leukocytosis and thrombocytopenia in animals in the septic group. The results also revealed that there were significant (p < 0.05) increases in adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and adenosine monophosphate (AMP) hydrolyses, and in the deamination of adenosine in the CLP group compared to the sham and control groups. Conversely, ADP hydrolysis was significantly decreased (p < 0.05) in the CLP group compared to the sham and control groups. Purine levels were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) in serum samples from control, sham, and CLP groups. Increased concentrations of ATP, adenosine, and inosine were found in the CLP group compared to the sham and control groups. Conversely, the concentrations of ADP and AMP in the CPL group were not significantly altered. We suggest that alterations in hematological parameters, nucleotide hydrolysis in platelets, and nucleotide concentrations in serum samples of rats with induced sepsis may be related to thromboembolic events.

Effects of chronic exposure of X-ray on hematological parameters in human blood

The aim of the study was to show how many X-ray technicians who work in radiology department at public-sector hospitals in Sulaimani city are affected by doses of X-ray from X-ray machines, fluoroscopy, and CT scan through examining 12 hematological parameters. The study group included 24 seemingly healthy female and male X-ray technicians. The group was subdivided into 12 female X-ray technicians having average ages of 39 and 14 years of 4 hourly per day of services. As well as, 12 male X-ray technicians having average ages of 41 and 15 years of 5 hourly per day of services. A group of 24 healthy control subjects was selected from outside of the hospitals; the group was subdivided into 12 females having average age of 33 years and 12 males having average of 39 years matched with the first group to reveal any alteration in hematological parameters. The statistical analysis of hematological parameters showed that among the female group, the parameter mean cell volume (MCV) was decreased significantly (P < 0.009) but the parameter mean cell hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) increased significantly (P < 0.049) compared to that among the control groups. The results showed that among the male group, the mean values of total white blood cells (tWBC) (P < 0.003) and platelet (PLT) counts (P < 0.03) decreased significantly compared with those among the control groups whereas no significant difference was observed between the rest of blood cell counts in the female and male groups. We concluded that chronic exposure to X-ray can produce significant increase in MCV and significant decrease in MCHC parameters in female X-ray technicians and significant decrease in the number of tWBC and PLT parameters in male X-ray technicians.

Anti-arthritic activity of aqueous-methanolic extract and various fractions of Berberis orthobotrys Bien ex Aitch

BackgroundThe roots and stem bark of Berberis orthobotrys (Berberidaceae) have long been used traditionally to treat joint pain. Though, it has not been pharmacologically assessed for rheumatoid arthritis. The current study explores anti-arthritic activity and phytochemical analysis of aqueous-methanolic extract (30:70) and fractions (ethyl acetate, n-butanol, and aqueous) of Berberis orthobotrys roots.MethodsAnti-arthritic potential was evaluated in vitro using protein denaturation (bovine serum albumin and egg albumin) and membrane stabilization methods at 12.5–800 μg/ml concentration and in vivo via turpentine oil, formaldehyde and Complete Freund Adjuvant (CFA) models at 50, 100 and 150 mg/kg doses. Also, in vitro antioxidant ability was appraised by reducing power assay. Moreover, total flavonoid content, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and High performance liquid chromatography of n-butanol fraction were performed.ResultsThe results revealed concentration dependent inhibition of albumin denaturation and notable RBC membrane stabilization, with maximum results obtained at 800 μg/ml. Similarly, plant exhibited dose dependent anti-arthritic effect in turpentine oil and formaldehyde models, with maximum activity observed at 150 mg/kg. The results of CFA model depicted better protection against arthritic lesions and body weight alterations. Also, B.orthobotrys remarkably ameliorated altered hematological parameters, rheumatoid factor and positively modified radiographic and histopathological changes. Additionally, plant exhibited remarkable anti-oxidant activity. Moreover, phytochemical analysis revealed polyphenols and flavonoids.ConclusionTaken together, these results support traditional use of B.orthobotrys as potent anti-arthritic agent that may be proposed for rheumatoid arthritis treatment.

Screening of Antistress and Anxiolytic Activities of Piper longum Fruits Extract

The aim of the study was to investigate adaptogenic and anxiolytic activities of methanol extract of Piper longum fruits at different dose levels (100, 250 and 500 mg/kg) using different experimental animal models. In the present research work antistress activity was assessed by swimming endurance and immobilization stress models, and anxiolytic activity were assessed by elevated plus maze behavior of mice, light dark exploration test in mice and open field apparatus test in rats. In swimming endurance test, the mean time of swimming performance and swimming stress induced biochemical parameters such as serum cortisol, the weights of adrenal glands, ascorbic acid and cortisol levels were recorded in the adrenal gland. There was dose dependent significant increase in swimming performance time observed in mice pretreated with graded doses of the test extracts. Animals pretreated with test extracts at different dose levels showed significant and dose dependent fall in all the biochemical parameters, as compared to the stress control animals. Treatment with standard and test extracts significantly reversed the stress induced altered hematological parameters, biochemical parameters, organs weight, GSH and LPO levels and neurotransmitters such as dopamine, nor adrenaline and serotonin levels in rat brain In immobilization stress. The test extracts demonstrated the significant increase in time spent and number of entries into open arm in elevated plus maze apparatus test and also increase in time spent and number of entries into lit box was observed in light box exploration test and reduction in time spent and number crossing into the dark compartment observed in animals pretreated with test extract. Pretreatment with test extracts demonstrated dose dependent significant increase in ambulation, rearing and self-grooming and significant decrease in fecal dropping in case of open field test.

Evaluation of acute toxicity and effects of sub-acute concentrations of copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO-NPs) on hematology, selected enzymes and histopathology of liver and kidney in Mus musculus

Industrial use of nanoparticles and their accumulation during the recent decade have created an urgent need to assess their environmental implications. The current study deals with the evaluation of acute toxicity of copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO-NPs) in the albino mice (Mus musculus). Lethal dose of these nanoparticles in albino mice injected via intravenous route were found to be 550 mg/kg body weight (BW). Exposure of the albino mice to sub-lethal concentrations of these nanoparticles resulted in altered hematological parameters such as a significant increase in white blood cells (WBCs), a significant decrease in red blood cells (RBCs), hemoglobin (Hb) and platelets count. NPs significantly elevated the levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), urea and creatinine. Histopathological examination of liver and kidney showed that sub-lethal doses of CuO-NPs, in liver, led to rupture of hepatocytes, dilation of sinusoid space, hemorrhaging in hepatic tissues, and congestion of the central vein with red blood cells leading towards ultimate rupture. On the other hand, the kidney showed ruptured renal capsule, loss of urinary space, swelling in glomerulus, degeneration in podocysts, and cytoplasmic vacuolization

Trehalose enhances the antitumor potential of methotrexate against mice bearing Ehrlich ascites carcinoma

Methotrexate (MTX) is commonly used as a standard chemotherapy for many cancers, however its usage required high doses thereby leading to severe adverse effects. In a trial to find a suitable neoadjuvant therapy to decrease MTX dosage without lowering its chemotherapeutic efficacy, we investigated the antitumor effect of trehalose (TRE) on mice bearing Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC) and checked whether TRE can enhance the antitumor potential of MTX. Treatment with TRE induced anti-tumor effects against EAC as reveled by a remarkable decrease in body weight, tumor volume, count of viable tumor cells, expression of the anti-apoptotic gene Bcl2 as well as by a significant increase in mean survival time, life span and expression of the apoptotic gene caspase-3. TRE also caused a significant decrease in autophagic activity of EAC cells as evident by reduction in the expression of the autophagic gene Beclin 1 (Bec1) and the fluorescence intensity of autophagosome marker. Additionally, TRE restored the altered hematological and biochemical parameters and improved the disrupted hepatic tissues of EAC-bearing mice. Interestingly, co-administration of TRE and MTX showed highest anti-tumor effect against EAC. These data indicate that TRE enhances the antitumor potential of MTX and could be used as neoadjuvant drug to increase the efficacy of the antitumor drug, MTX.

A molecular and haematological study of Theileria equi in Balkan donkeys.

Equine piroplasmosis in donkeys has been recognised as a serious problem of major economic importance. The present molecular study is the first investigation of the presence of Theileria equi and Babesia caballi in Balkan donkeys and of the possible haematological alterations related to it. A total of 70 apparently healthy donkeys from Serbia were included in this study. The overall prevalence of T. equi infection in donkeys tested with multiplex PCR was 50%. There was no B. caballi-positive sample. Infections in donkeys included in this study seem to be associated with decreased red blood cell count, haemoglobin concentration, haematocrit and platelet count, and with increased white blood cell count, mean corpuscular haemoglobin and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration. Altered haematological parameters in donkeys can lead to a decrease in working capacity and production performance. Further molecular research and long-term monitoring of equine piroplasmosis is needed in Serbia and throughout Europe.

Extensive phenotypic characterization of a new transgenic mouse reveals pleiotropic perturbations in physiology due to mesenchymal hGH minigene expression

The human growth hormone (hGH) minigene used for transgene stabilization in mice has been recently identified to be locally expressed in the tissues where transgenes are active and associated with phenotypic alterations. Here we extend these findings by analyzing the effect of the hGH minigene in TgC6hp55 transgenic mice which express the human TNFR1 under the control of the mesenchymal cell-specific CollagenVI promoter. These mice displayed a fully penetrant phenotype characterized by growth enhancement accompanied by perturbations in metabolic, skeletal, histological and other physiological parameters. Notably, this phenotype was independent of TNF-TNFR1 signaling since the genetic ablation of either Tnf or Tradd did not rescue the phenotype. Further analyses showed that the hGH minigene was expressed in several tissues, also leading to increased hGH protein levels in the serum. Pharmacological blockade of GH signaling prevented the development of the phenotype. Our results indicate that the unplanned expression of the hGH minigene in CollagenVI expressing mesenchymal cells can lead through local and/or systemic mechanisms to enhanced somatic growth followed by a plethora of primary and/or secondary effects such as hyperphagia, hypermetabolism, disturbed glucose homeostasis, altered hematological parameters, increased bone formation and lipid accumulation in metabolically critical tissues.

Effect of Phytoestrogenic Constituents of Fenugreek in Comparison with Synthetic Estradiol on Menopause Induced Hematological Alterations

At menopause the physiological parameters modulated by estrogen are disrupted leading to various symptoms. Hormone replacement therapy though beneficial has its own drawbacks. Fenugreek seeds, commonly used in Indian households, is known to possess phytoestrogens. Considering the lack of literature in support of this, this study was conducted to compare the effects of fenugreek seed extract and 17�-estradiol on menopause induced alterations in hematological parameters, employing the ovariectomised rat model. Female Wistar rats, 8 months old were randomly assigned into 4 groups (n = 6): (1) normal control, (2) ovariectomised and untreated, (3) ovariectomised and treated orally with fenugreek seed extract, (4) ovariectomised and treated with subcutaneous injections of estradiol. Post-treatment blood samples were collected and various hematological parameters were analyzed. Fenugreek treated rats showed higher hemoglobin, hematocrit and RBC counts in comparison to ovariectomised group. Additionally, they showed a higher total leukocyte count (TLC), specifically a higher lymphocyte count than that of control. Estradiol treated groups showed severe leukopenia owing to lymphocytopenia; decreased RBC counts, hemoglobin and hematocrit. However, the changes were statistically significantly only with estradiol treatment. Overall, fenugreek was found to be a better agent to attenuate the menopause induced hematological alterations.