Ameliorative Effect Of Aqueous Extract Research Articles

Ameliorative effects of aqueous extract of Momordica charantia seed against Collagen induced Rheumatoid Arthritis in rats

Ameliorative effects of aqueous extract of Momordica charantia seed against Collagen induced Rheumatoid Arthritis in rats

Lead Acetate-Induced Hepatotoxicity and the ameliorative effect of Aqueous Extract of Adansonia digitata Fruit Pulp in Clarias gariepinus

Aim: To evaluate serum hepatic changes induced by lead acetate (PbA) and the ameliorative effect of aqueous extract of Adansonia digitata fruit pulp (AEADFP) in Clarias gariepinus. Methods: A total of 120 Clarias gariepinus (185 ± 5 g) were assigned randomly into 6 groups (A, B, C, D, E and F) of n=20. Group A was administered borehole water for 35 days; Group B, C, D, E and F were administered PbA for 14 days and subsequently borehole water, 195 mg/L of AEADFP, 390 mg/L of AEADFP, 585 mg/L of AEADFP and 15 mg/L of dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA), respectively, for 21 days. Four fish per group were randomly selected on weekly basis for serum biochemical analysis of hepatic function markers. Results: There was significant (p<0.05) elevation in alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), total bilirubin and total cholesterol levels in the PbA-induced groups B, C, D, E and F, at week 2 post-induction. Contrarily, total protein and albumin decrease in group B, C, D, E and F, to the lowest mean values of 1.1 ± 0.1 g/dL and 0.7 ± 0.2 g/dL, respectively at week 2 post-induction. However, treatment of PbA-induced group C, D, E and F with AEADFP and DMSA, respectively, significantly ameliorated the negative effects of PbA when compared with the PbA-induced but untreated group. Conclusion: The findings in this study suggest that Adansonia digitata fruit extract has a mitigating potential against PbA-induced hepatotoxicity by ameliorating the upsurge and downturn of liver function parameters. Hence, Adansonia digitata fruits can serve as a natural plant agent in the treatment of lead-induced hepatotoxicity in Clarias gariepinus.

Effect of aqueous extract of mistletoe leaf (viscum album) on the spleen of lead acetate-induced toxicity in adult Wistar rats

This work is aimed at the ameliorative effect of aqueous extract of mistletoe on the spleen of lead acetate-induced toxicity in rat. Twenty-five adults male Wistar rats used for this experiment were divided into five groups. Group A (control) was administered 1ml of distilled water. Low dose, 200mg/kg of mistletoe extract and 10mg/kg of lead acetate were administered to Group B. Intermediate dose, 400mg/kg of mistletoe extract and 10mg/kg of lead acetate were administered to Group C. Group D was administered high dose, 800mg/kg of mistletoe extract and 10mg/kg of lead acetate. 10mg/kg of lead acetate only was administered to Group E. The rats in each group were treated per os for 28 days. After the treatment, the animals were anaesthetized using chloroform then sacrificed. The harvested spleens were processed for histopathology. Groups: B, C and D histopathological micrograph showed no visible lesions compared to Group A while Group E splenic micrograph revealed cellular damaged. The initial weights in groups A (110.60 ± 2.29) g, B (131.20 ± 8.10) g, C (125.60 ± 13.70) g, D (124.75 ± 7.72) g showed significant (p<0.05) difference with final weights in A (174.00 ± 7.80) g, B (159.80 ± 8.12) g, C (157.60 ± 11.57) g, D (196.00± 15.98) g. Group D had the highest final weight gain. The spleno-somatic indices of treated groups: A-E were not significantly different at p>0.05. The Viscum album extract had ameliorative and protective effects against the toxic effect of lead acetate on the spleen of Wistar rats.

Ameliorative effects of aqueous extract from rosemary on oxidative stress and inflammation pathways caused by a high-fat diet in C57BL/6 mice.

Rosemary is an herb exhibits biological properties, attenuates inflammation, oxidative stress, and improves lipid profile. Here, we evaluated the effects of rosemary aqueous extract (RE) on mice fed with a high-fat diet (HFD). Male C57BL/6 mice were administered a control diet or HFD for 10 weeks. The treated groups received RE in the diet at different concentrations: 25, 250, and 500mg/100g. After 10 weeks, serum concentrations of glucose, lipid, insulin, leptin, adiponectin, and cytokines were evaluated and the oxygen radical absorbance capacity was determined. Histological analysis was performed to determine the concentrations of triacylglycerides (TG), total cholesterol, cytokines, and antioxidant enzymes as well as the expression of genes involved in lipid metabolism, oxidative stress, and inflammation. The dietary RE ameliorated HFD-induced weight gain, adipose tissue weight, glucose intolerance, and insulin, leptin, and free fatty acid levels. Reduction in hepatic TG deposition was observed. The levels of inflammatory cytokines decreased, and the expression of genes involved in lipid metabolism increased. RE mitigated oxidative stress and reduced the production of reactive oxygen species in HepG2 and 3T3-L1 cells. Therefore, RE is a potential therapeutic agent for the prevention of inflammation and oxidative stress outcomes associated with obesity.

Ameliorative effect of aqueous extract of Carica papaya Linn. leaves on Acetic acid induced Ulcerative Colitis in Male Albino Wistar rats

Ulcerative colitis (UC) manifests as chronic inflammation of the colon. The bowel inflammation is due to alteration in the immune response to gut micro flora, oxidative stress and hereditary genetic factors. Leaf extract of papaya Carica papaya Linn. contain vitamin A, C, alkaloids, saponins, glycosides, tannins and flavonoids which have antispasmodic, analgesic, antibacterial and antioxidant properties. The main aim of the study was to detect the efficacy of Carica papaya leaf extract (PLE) on ulcerative colitis in Wistar Albino rats with objectives to explore the possible mechanism involved in its efficacy and to look for prebiotic activity. The project was initiated after the approval of Institutional Animal Ethics Committee. Thirty adult Wistar rats were randomly assigned into seven groups of six rats each. Group I-control, Group II-UC disease control, Group III-Disease with standard Sulfasalazine 100mg/kg, Group IV and Group V, UC disease model receiving PLE of 250mg/kg and 500 mg/kg respectively. Ulcerative colitis was not induced in Group VI and Group VII which received PLE of 500mg/kg and 700 mg/kg respectively. All the drugs were administered orally for 15 days. UC was induced by acetic acid on the 8th day. Blood sample was collected for biochemical analysis for antioxidant levels. Histopathological analysis of distal colon was performed to look for inflammatory features. Microbial analysis was done for group VI and group VII. There was significant reduction in body weight in UC induced groups when compared to control. The weight loss in Group IV and V (PE1 and PE2) was not as extreme as seen in the UC alone group. The treatment groups IV and V showed significant increase in protein levels, increased catalase and decreased malondialdehyde levels when compared to Group I, II and III. On histopathological analysis, the severity and extent of inflammation was less in 500mg/kg dose of leaf extract (Group V) than 250mg/kg of leaf extract (Group IV) and 100mg/kg of sulfasalazine (Group III). Tissue sections of Group V showed only few inflammatory infiltrates with absence of oedema and crypt abscess in the submucosal area. On examining the pathogenic versus beneficial bacterial load in the control and Group VI (PE 3) and Group VII (PE 4), papaya leaf extracts depicted antibacterial property and probiotic activity. In the present study, 500mg/kg of papaya leaf extract was efficacious in relieving oxidative stress and reducing inflammation in acetic acid induced ulcerative colitis in rats. Carica papaya leaf extracts have a potential role to modify gut microbe with respect to its prebiotic activity.

Ameliorating Effects of Croton Bonplandianus Leaves against Gentamicin Induced Acute Liver and Kidney Injury: A Biochemical and Histopathological Investigation

The utilization of natural constituents for the treatment of various medical complaints is well established. The members of the Euphorbiaceae family, especially the Croton genus, are reported to be rich in diterpenoids and showing various biological activities. Many activities of Croton bonplandianus are still unfolded therefore, current study is designed to evaluate the ameliorative effects of aqueous extract of C. bonplandianus against gentamicin-induced liver and kidney injuries in rats. The aqueous extract of leaves (27-81 mg/kg) was administered to albino rats Wistar strain for eight days with concurrent administration of gentamicin (100 mg/kg) daily. The protective effect of the aqueous extracts on the liver was determined by liver function tests (SGPT, ALT, GGT, Bilirubin) and kidney functions were evaluated by assessment of plasma biomarkers including urea, creatinine, uric acid and electrolytes (sodium, potassium, chloride and bicarbonate). Histopathological studies of liver and kidney tissue were carried out by Hematoxylin and Eosin (H& E) staining confirmation of the consequences. Significant alterations in liver and kidney tissues treated groups with aqueous extracts of leaves were obtained in lower doses (27-54 mg/kg). Similarly, serum levels of SGPT, ALT, GGT, bilirubin, creatinine, and urea in the treated group were significantly reduced (P < 0.01) at similar doses, whereas no significant changes were founded in levels of ions and uric acids. The histological examination of the liver and kidney confirmed the biochemical changes in treated rats. The underlying results demonstrate the protective effect of aqueous leave extracts Croton bonplandianus on an acute liver and kidney injury rat model. The hepato and renal protective effects of C. bonplandianus are certainly due to the presence of diterpenoids flavonoids and polyphenols exhibiting free radical or oxygen scavenging activities. Keywords: Croton bonplandianus , gentamicin, histopathological studies, nephroprotective effect. https://doi.org/10.55463/issn.1674-2974.50.3.15

Ameliorative Effects of Aqueous Extract of Brassica nigra on Phenylhydrazine-Induced Liver Toxicity in Wistar Rats

Brassica nigra has been reported to possess antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatory activity, anti-epileptic activity, antidiabetic activity, anthelminthic activity, nephroprotective activity and hepatoprotective activity. In experimental models, phenylhydrazine been used to cause reproductive toxicity, nephrotoxicity, hepatotoxicity, hyperbilirubinemia and haemolytic anaemia. This study therefore aimed to investigate the effects of B. nigra on phenylhydrazine-induced liver toxicity through analysis of liver enzymes and histoarchitecture of the liver. Thirty (30) adult Wistar rats weighing between 180 and 200 grams were utilized in this investigation. They were bred in the Animal House of the Department of Anatomy, University of Benin, and were randomly assigned into six (6) groups of five (5) animals. Group A received 1 ml distilled water, Group B received phenylhydrazine only, Group C received phenylhydrazine and 0.1 ml of oxaliplatin, Group D received phenylhydrazine and 150 mg/kg body weight of B. nigra, Group E received phenylhydrazine and 300 mg/kg body weight of B. nigra while Group received phenylhydrazine and 600 mg/kg body weight of B. nigra. The study lasted for a period of eight (8) weeks. Significant elevations (P<0.05) in the mean concentrations of liver enzymes (ALP, AST, ALT) and total protein were recorded after the administration of phenylhydrazine while the treatment with different concentrations of B. nigra induced a reversal in those parameters to levels comparable with the control. In conclusion, B. nigra administration lowers a number of the harmful effects of in vivo phenylhydrazine administration in the liver of Wistar rats, according to the findings in this study.

Aqueous extract of Terminalia arjuna bark attenuates blood brain barrier disruption in rat model of transient focal cerebral ischemia

BackgroundTerminalia arjuna (TA) is a widely used medicinal plant in Indian traditional medicinal system. In the Ayurvedic system of medicine it is used as a cardiotonic and also well documented in experimental studies for its efficacy in various cardiac ailments. Few recent studies have reported its neuroprotective effects in rat model of cerebral ischemia. However, the effect of TA on cerebral ischemia induced Blood brain barrier (BBB) damage is still unclear. PurposeThe present study is aimed to evaluate the ameliorative effect of aqueous extract of Terminalia arjuna (aeTA) against transient focal cerebral ischemia induced BBB damage. Study designAdult male Sprague-dawley rats (270–300g) were randomly divided into three groups: Sham, Lesion (Middle cerebral artery occlusion for 2 hours) and aeTA pre-treatment at a dose of 500 mg /kg body weight/day orally for 15 days prior to MCAo. Materials and MethodsAfter 24 h of ischemic-reperfusion injury, the rats were assessed for behavioral deficits by Modified neurological severity scoring (mNSS), infarct measurement by Triphenyl tetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining, BBB integrity by Evans blue (EB) staining, protein and mRNA expressions of TJ proteins (Claudin5 & Occludin), MMPs (MMP2 & MMP9) and TIMPs (TIMP1 & TIMP2) through western blot analysis and real time PCR. ResultsThe pre-treatment with aeTA for 15 days exhibited significant improvement in neurological outcome and reduced infarct volume compared with the MCAo rats. The aeTA treatment also reduced the BBB damage which was confirmed through decreased EB extravasations, significant reduction in protein levels of MMPs (MMP2 &MMP9) and maintaining the protein levels of tight junction proteins. We also found that aeTA treatment downregulated the mRNA levels of MMPs and upregulated mRNA expression levels of TIMPs and tight junction proteins (Claudin5 & Occludin). ConclusionThese results demonstrate the neuroprotective property of aeTA treatment by reducing the MMPs mediated BBB damage after focal cerebral ischemia.

A Comparative Study on the Ameliorative Effects of Aqueous Extract of Two Varieties of Hibiscus on the Intestinal Epithelial Barrier in Bowel Inflammation

Aim: To evaluate the ability of red and white hibiscus (H) in improving the epithelial barrier in indomethacin-induced duodenal and colonic inflammation, compared with prebiotic and to investigate whether the red and/or white hibiscus can be used as natural prebiotic like agents. Methods: Histological, histomorphometric, histochemical demonstration for goblets cells and mucin intensity. Immunohistochemical demonstration of COX-2, and tight junctions (Claudin-1 and E-cadherin) were examined. Duodenal and colonic TNF-α, IL-6, IL-10, PGE2, MPO, MDA, TAC, besides, serum CRP were evaluated. Results: Indomethacin induced inflammation and ulceration in the duodenum and colon, with significant depletion in goblet cell count and mucin intensity. COX-2 was increased while claudin-1 and E-cadherin were significantly diminished. Tissue TNF-α, IL-6, MPO, MDA, and serum CRP were elevated significantly by indomethacin, while IL-10, PGE2 and TAC were reduced. Co-treatment with red H, white H, or prebiotics plus indomethacin improved significantly duodenal and colonic histoarchitecture, tissue contents of PAS cells, mucin, claudin-1 and E-cadherin, while COX-2 reduced. TNF-α, IL-6, MPO, MDA, and serum CRP were decreased significantly, while IL-10 , PGE2 and TAC were restored. Conclusion: The current research introduces red and white hibiscus as prebiotics-like agents because of their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, or tight junctions modulating activities.

Ameliorative Effects of Aqueous Extract of Date Palm Fruits (phoenix dactylifera) on high fat diet- induced Liver Damage in Adult Wistar Rats

Elevated cholesterol level is a major cause of disease burden in developing Nations. This study seeks to evaluate the ameliorative and hepatoprotective potentials of aqueous extract of date palm (Phoenix dactylifera) on high fat diet-induced liver damage. Thirty (30) adult wistar rats weighing 110-180g were randomly divided into six group of five animals each, group A served as control while B was exposed to high fat diet only (using margarine brand); Groups C, D and E were given high fat diet with co-treated with the extract at low, medium and high doses respectively while group F was received the drug Atrovastin as a gold standard to enable comparative effects of date palm administration. At the end of the treatment period, the animals were anaesthetized using chloroform blood samples were collected via cardiac puncture to investigate the activities of liver enzymes, and liver tissue was harvested through a midline incision for histological analysis. There were evidence of vascular congestion and periportal infiltration in rats given margarineonly indicative of hepatocellular disruption. Animals that received moderate to high dose of the fruit extract show mild to total reversal of the damaged liver cells and activation of kupffer cells with concurrent changes in serum albumin level. Aqueous extract of phoenix dactylifera was seen to ameliorate the fat induced liver damage with notable changes in hepatocyte configuration as observed when treated with standard drug.
 Keywords: Phoenix dactylifera, Hyperlipedermia, Liver, Wistar rat

Effect of Trigonella Foenum against Ethylene Diamine Tetra Acetic Acid induced Nephrotoxicity in Male Albino Rats

Background Nephrotoxicity is a complication due to the effect of some toxic chemicals on kidney. Current study planned to screen the effect of Trigonella foenumaqueous seeds extracts on EDTA induced nephrotoxicity. Trigonella foenum known for its various medicinal properties is also a natural antioxidant and a free radical scavenger with no documented evidence as a nephron-protective agent. Objective To investigate the protective effects of aqueous seed extracts of Trigonella foenum. Material and Methods The present study was used 40 male albino rats (Rattus albinus) with weight of (150 ± 10) g with divided into four groups: control gp; EDTA gp (95 mg/kg); Trigonella foenum gp (500 mg/kg) and EDTA + Trigonella f oenum gp by gastric tube daily for 4 weeks. Blood urea, creatinine, GFR, creatinine clearance, MDA and GPx analyses and microscopic examination of kidney were performed. Results In the present study, Blood samples were taken from all groups and concentration of serum urea, creatinine, GFR, Creatinine clearance, MDA and GPx were determined. Histopathological observations were observed in kidney tissue. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA). EDTA induced an increase in urea and creatinine as well as there was a decrease in the concentration of GFR and creatinine clearance. The level of MDA was increase while the concentration of GPx was decrease in the serum of EDTA group. The aqueous extracts of Trigonella seeds significantly prevented renal damage by normalizing increased levels of renal markers. The correction of oxidative stress biomarkers was consistent with amelioration of the histopathological changes induced by EDTA. Hence, it is suggested that ameliorative effect of aqueous extract of Trigonella foenumagainst EDTA induced nephrotoxicity. Conclusion The present data suggest that aqueous extract of Trigonella foenum exhibits reno-protective effect in EDTA induced renal damage.

Investigating the ameliorative effects of the aqueous extract of Pleurotus ostreatus on cyclophosphamide-induced cytotoxicity in rabbits

This study investigated the ameliorative effect of aqueous extract of Pleurotus ostreatus (APO) against cyclophosphamide-induced cytotoxicity in rabbits. Seventy-two healthy rabbits were divided into eight groups each with nine rabbits. Rabbits in groups 1, 2, 3 and 4 (CPA-treated groups) were each given a single oral dose of 50 mg/kg of cyclophosphamide (CPA), however rabbits in groups 2, 3 and 4 were post-treated with 5.0, 7.5 or 10 mg/kg APO on day 1 and throughout the experiment. Rabbits in groups 5, 6, 7 and 8 (CPA-untreated groups) were given only 0.0, 5.0, 7.5 and 10 mg/kg APO per day, respectively throughout the experiment. The experiment lasted 15 days. Serum chemistry analyses and histopathological examination of liver tissues were carried out. Serum creatinine, bilirubin, globulin and total protein concentrations observed in CPA-treated groups were higher (P < 0.05) than those of CPA-untreated groups. Highest (P < 0.05) values for total protein (83.60 g/dl) and globulin (43.16 g/dl) were recorded in CPA-treated groups administered 10.0 mg/kg APO per day. Haematological measurements (packed cell volume, haemoglobin, white blood cell, platelet and red blood cells) in CPA-treated groups were lower (P < 0.01) in comparison to those of CPA-untreated groups. However, an increase (P < 0.01) in the values of these parameters was observed following post-treatment of rabbits in the CPA-treated groups with 7.5 and 10.0 mg/kg APO per day. The findings of this study thus indicate that aqueous extract of Pleurotus ostreatus has the potential to ameliorate CPA-induced renal injury and myelosuppression in a dose-dependent manner.

Ameliorative Effects of Aqueous Extract of Citrullus Lanatus Fruit on Phenylhydrazine Induced Anemia In Male Wistar Rats

The possible ameliorative effects of aqueous extract of Citrullus lanatus juice(CLJ)on hematological parameters, serum erythrocytic osmotic fragility and lipid profile parameters were investigated following phenylhydrazine(PHZ)administration using wistar rats. Thirty male wistar rats were randomly distributed into 6 groups of 5 rats each. Group A were untreated controls; Group B received only phenylhydrazine negative controls; Group C received phenylhydrazine+1 ml/kg/day of Vitamin B12 syrup from day 2 to day14; Groups D, E and F rats were anemia induced with phenylhydrazine and treated with different doses (100, 300 and 600mg/kg) of CLJ extracts respectively and compared with Group A rats. The injection of PHZ to rats caused hemolytic anemia characterized by reducing hematological parameters.The oral administration of CLJ in the doses of 300 mg/kg and 600 mg/kg significantly increased Haemoglobin level. Also, the results demonstrated that the use of CLJ can as well maintain Red blood cell membrane integrity.The lymphocytes values was significantly elevated in dose 300mg/kg and 600mg/kg of the extract suggesting an increasing dose dependence effects of the extract.It was observed that the values of serum lipid profile, total cholesterol and Low density lipoprotein in anemic rats and treated rats with 100 mg/kg and 300mg/kg doses of the CLJ extract were significantly higher than the control Group A,which is consistent with the findings of some studies. These results suggest a possible ameliorative potential of Citrullus lanatus juice on hematological parameters and immunostimulating with indices of hematology following phenylhydrazine administration. This result shows that CLJ extract can be used to treat anemia.

Ameliorative effects of aqueous extract of Forsythiae suspensa fruits on oxaliplatin-induced neurotoxicity in vitro and in vivo

BackgroundThe dried fruits of Forsythia suspensa has generally been used to clear heat and detoxify in traditional Korean and Chinese medicine. Oxaliplatin is a first-line treatment chemotherapeutic agent for advanced colorectal cancer, but it induces peripheral neuropathy as an adverse side effect affecting the treatment regimen and the patient’s quality of life. The present study was conducted to evaluate the neuroprotective effects of an aqueous extract of F. suspensa fruits (EFSF) on oxaliplatin-induced peripheral neuropathy.MethodsThe chemical components from EFSF were characterized and quantified using the ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-diode array detector system. The cytotoxicities of anticancer drugs in cancer cells and PC12 cells were assessed by the Ez-Cytox viability assay. To measure the in vitro neurotoxicity, the neurite outgrowth was analyzed in the primary dorsal root ganglion (DRG) cells, and neural PC12 cells that were differentiated with nerve growth factor. To evaluate the in vivo neuroprotective activity, the von Frey test was performed in six-week-old male mice (C57BL/6) receiving EFSF (60–600 mg/kg) in the presence of 20–30 mg/kg cumulative doses of oxaliplatin. Thereafter, the mice were euthanized for immunohistochemical staining analysis with an antibody against PGP9.5.ResultsEFSF attenuated the cytotoxic activities of the various anticancer drugs in neural PC12 cells, but did not affect the anticancer activity of oxaliplatin in human cancer cells. Oxaliplatin remarkably induced neurotoxicities including cytotoxicity and the inhibited neurite outgrowth of DRG and neural PC12 cells. However, the co-treatment of EFSF (100 μg/ml) with oxaliplatin completely reversed the oxaliplatin-induced neurotoxicity. Forsythoside A, the major component of EFSF, also exerted remarkable neuroprotective effects against the oxaliplatin-induced neurotoxicity. In addition, EFSF (60–200 mg/kg) significantly alleviated the oxaliplatin-induced mechanical allodynia and loss of intra-epidermal nerve fiber to the levels of the vehicle control in the mouse peripheral neuropathy model.ConclusionsEFSF could be considered a useful herbal medicine for the treatment of peripheral neuropathy in cancer patients receiving chemotherapy with oxaliplatin.

Nutmeg toxicity: Ameliorative effect of aqueous extract of &lt;i&gt;Guiera senegalensis&lt;/i&gt; in experimental rat model

Meristic fragrans seeds (also known as nutmeg seed) are commonly used as a spice in various delicacies, as components of teas and soft drinks or mixed in milk and alcohol. The bulk of the spice contains carbohydrates, protein and mineral. The spice possesses phytochemicals which are responsible for its flavoring, coloring, preservative and health-promoting characteristics. The aim of the research was to investigate the ameliorating effect of aqueous extract of G. senegalensis against nutmeg toxicity in rat model. The phytochemical content was estimated by either gravimetric or spectrophotometric method, the antioxidant potential was estimated by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazine (DPPH) assay while the biochemical indices were determined by standard protocols. The phytochemical evaluation of G. senegalensis extract (GsE) and M. fragrans extract (MfE) showed high flavonoid content while the saponin content was relatively low. The free radical scavenging activity using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazine (DPPH) assay showed that G. senegalensis extract exhibited stronger antioxidant property compared to M. fragrans extract. Nutmeg control group showed increase levels in renal and hepatic function indices but were significantly decreased (p&lt;0.05) in the groups treated with 200 mg/kg body weight and 400 mg/kg body weight of aqueous extract of G. senegalensis. The MDA level was significantly elevated in the nutmeg group, however, it significantly reduced in the treated groups. It can be concluded that the strong antioxidant potential exhibited by G. senegalensis may have been responsible for its ameliorative effect against nutmeg-induced toxicity. Since high dietary and long term consumption of nutmeg may have adverse effect on both kidney and liver organs respectively, recommendation on its use in moderation is advisable.Keywords: Phytochemical compounds, 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazine (DPPH), Toxicity, Biochemical Indices, Nutmeg seed.

Aqueous extract of lily bulb ameliorates menopause-like behavior in ovariectomized mice with novel brain-uterus mechanisms distinct from estrogen therapy

BackgroundLily bulb is often used as a dietary supplement for menopause. This study was aimed to investigate the ameliorative effects of aqueous extract of lily bulb (AELB) on the menopause-associated psychiatric disorders and the underlying mechanisms in comparison with estrogen therapy. MethodsOvariectomized (OVX) mice were treated with 1.8 g/kg AELB or 0.3 mg/kg estradiol for 5 weeks. Animals were tested in multiple behavioral paradigms. Serum, uterus, and brain tissues were collected for the measurement of neurotransmitters and their related biomarkers, neurotrophins, and estrogen receptor α (ERα) and β (ERβ). ResultsAELB and estradiol had similar anxiolytic, antidepressant, and cognition-improving effects. While estradiol limited OVX-induced weight gains and prevented uterine shrinkage and the drop of serum estrogen level, AELB had minor and even no effects on these indices. AELB, but not estradiol, reversed OVX-induced decreases in the expression levels of hippocampal nerve growth factor (NGF) and prefrontal glial cell-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF). In addition to hypothalamic and prefrontal ERα, AELB enhanced uterine and brain regional ERβ expression levels without affecting uterine ERα, NGF, and GDNF. Conversely, estradiol completely restored the expression levels of estrogen receptors and neurotrophins in uterus. ConclusionsWhile AELB is comparable to estradiol in alleviating menopause-like behavior, it has distinct brain-uterus mechanisms in association with the predominant protection of catecholamine synthesis, neurotrophins, and ERβ receptors in brain, but with minor effects on uterus. AELB and its constituents may be novel treatments for menopause.

Neuromodulatory effects of aqueous extract of Coriandrum sativum seeds against acrylamide induced toxicity in Drosophila melanogaster#

Acrylamide (ACR) exposure leads to neuronal damage in both experimental animals and humans and has been established as a neurotoxin. The primary focus of this study was to assess the potential ameliorative effect of aqueous extract of coriander seeds against ACR-induced neurotoxicity in a Drosophila model. In this co-exposure study, adult male flies (8–10 days) were exposed (7 days) to ACR (5 mM) with or without aqueous extract of coriander seeds (0.005% and 0.01%) in the medium. The incidence of mortality among flies fed with ACR and extract was significantly reduced (40-60%). The ACR fed flies showed improvement in negative geotaxis assay when co-exposed with coriander extract (50-60%). Further, a significant attenuation in the ACR induced oxidative stress parameter such as Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS), and malondialdehyde (MDA) was evident. Although the effect of ACR with or without extract showed a differential effect on the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione –S – transferase (GST), the reduced levels of Thioredoxin Reductase (TRR) activity was robustly enhanced with extract supplement. Further, the cholinergic and dopaminergic function was assessed among all flies. While ACR induced elevation of acetylcholine esterase (AChE) activity remained unaltered with coriander supplement, a significant improvement was evident in the ACR induced reduction of dopamine levels. While the underlying mechanism of action needs further investigation, the protective effects may be at least in part related to the antioxidant capacity of the phytoconstituents of coriander.

Protective effect of Mumiju against acetic acid-induced ulcerative colitis in rats.

In this study, we elucidated the ameliorative effect of aqueous extract of leaves of Mumiju against acetic acid-induced experimental colitis in male rats. The animals were randomly divided into four groups (n=7) including I: control group, II: vehicle group (injected with 2 ml acetic acid (4%) intra rectally), III and IV: treatment groups which received Mumiju (250 mg/kg) orally or intraperitoneally for 4 consecutive days after ulcer induction. Ulcer index, severity of inflammation, colonic levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH), and malondialdehyde (MDA), and histological changes were recorded after the treatment regimen of 4 days. The ulcer index, severity of inflammation and colonic MDA levels were increased following intrarectal instillation of acetic acid. Also, acetic acid significantly decreased the SOD and GSH levels. Treatment with Mumiju for 4 days exhibited significantly lowered oxidative stress, while elevated of SOD and GSH levels. Regenerative-healing patterns also was seen by histopathological findings after treatment with Mumiju. The present investigation demonstrates that Mumiju could be regarded as a herb with potent therapeutic value in the amelioration of experimental colitis in laboratory animals by modulation of oxidant- antioxidant system.

Possible ameliorative effect of aqueous extract of date (Phoenix dactylifera) pits in rats exposed to gamma radiation

Purpose: To evaluate the radioprotective efficacy of date (Phoenix dactylifera) pits extract (DPE) against γ-irradiation-induced liver damage in the male albino rats. For this study, 30-day survival, dose reduction factor (DRF), antioxidant status and some biochemical changes in the serum and hepatic tissue were evaluated.Materials and methods: To calculate 30-day survival, median lethal dose of 30 days (LD50/30) and DRF, DPE was orally administered to rats for 21 days before irradiation with different doses (5, 6, 8, 10 and 12 Gy) of γ-rays and the rats were observed for 30 days post-irradiation. To evaluate the radioprotective efficacy of DPE against γ-irradiation induced-liver tissue damage, animals were divided into four groups (eight animals in each group). (i) Control: rats not subjected to any treatment; (ii) DPE: DPE was orally administrated (1000 mg/kg body weight) for 21 days; (iii) RAD: rats’ whole body exposed to 5 Gy of γ-rays; (iv) DPE + RAD: rats received DPE treatment for 21 days before γ-irradiation. Animals were sacrificed on the seventh day postexposure to radiation.Results: The results showed that pretreatment prior to irradiation with DPE resulted in a significantly higher 30-day survival rate of rats after exposure to different doses of γ-irradiation. Furthermore, DPE treatment resulted in a significant improvement in the hepatic redox state, manifested by a marked increase of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities and glutathione content associated with a significant decrease of malondialdehyde (MDA) level. In addition, DPE exhibited hepatoprotective effect evidenced by a marked increase in serum levels of insulin, testosterone, high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-c) and hepatic glucose 6 phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PHD) activity associated with a significant decrease in serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), γ-glutamyl transferase (γ-GT), glucose, total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low density-lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) and hepatic glucose 6 phosphatase (G6Pase) activity, compared with irradiated group. Moreover, DPE showed positive modulation in the levels of hepatic metals [(iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu) and manganese (Mn)].Conclusions: DPE treatment prior to gamma irradiation produced biochemical changes that could lead to a reduction in radiation-induced oxidative stress. Hence, we suggest that DPE may be useful as a new natural radioprotective agent.

Ameliorative effect of aqueous extract of bitter leaf on egg yolk induced kidney toxicity in adult wistar rats

ABSTRACT&#x0D; The aim of the study is to assess the effect of aqeueous extract of bitter leaf on egg yolk induced kidney toxicity in adult wistar rat. A total of 44 (forty four) adult wistar rats weighing between 220 g to 250 g were separated into 4 groups of 11 rats per group. Group A rats were placed on normal diet only while Group B rats received 300 mg/ kg body weight / day (BWT/D) of egg yolk. Group C rats received 250mg / kg BWT/D of bitter leaf. Group D rats received 300 mg/ kg BWT/D of egg yolk and 250mg / kg BWT/D of bitter leaf. The dosage were given for 32 days via orogastric method. The biochemical outcome showed that group B revealed marked elevation in the urea, SOD, cholesterol level when compared with the other groups. Histologically, group B showed a mild vascular obstruction and patchy tubular necrosis, while group A, C and D revealed normal architecture of the kidney. We can therefore concluded that the aqueous extract of bitter leaf have antioxidative and neproprotective properties against egg yolk induced kidney toxicity in wistar rat.