Liver Antioxidant Status Research Articles

The ability of yoghurt supplemented with dietary fibers or brans extracted from wheat or rice to reduce serum lipids and enhance liver function in male hypercholesterolemic rats

This study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of yoghurt supplementation with rice and wheat brans or dietary fibers on serum lipid profile, liver, and heart functionalities, and hepatopathological aspects of the liver of hypercholesterolemic rats. 48 male rats were divided into 8 groups. Group 1 was kept as negative control and fed with a standard diet, and groups 2 to 6 were fed a hypercholesterolemia-induced diet supplemented with brans or dietary fibers of both grains. G2 received yoghurt without supplementation. The experiment lasted for 4 weeks. Results revealed that hypercholesterolemic rats administrated yoghurt supplemented with brans or dietary fibers reduced serum glucose from 113.9± 2.72 to 85.5± 4.94 in the serum of animals that received dietary fibers of rice and wheat, respectively. In addition, lipids profile and liver antioxidant status were improved. In addition, liver and heart functionalities and liver histopathological architecture were all improved depending on the type of administrated brans or fibers added to yoghurt. The inclusion of 0.5% of rice or wheat brans could be recommended to be added to yoghurt. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Yoghurt is the most famous fermented milk in the world. Supplementation of yoghurt with rice and wheat brans or dietary fibers increased its nutritional value. We proved that this new product contributes to reducing serum glucose, improving lipids profile, and enhancing liver and heart functions in hypercholesterolemic rats. This study confirmed the suitability to add a thesis type of brans or dietary fibers as bioactive ingredients to yoghurt and increased the varieties of functional foods.

The Effect of Bioactive Compounds of Prunus spinosa Leaves and Flowers Mixture on the Antioxidant Capacity in Streptozotocin-induced Diabetic Rats

Diabetes is a serious and chronic public health problem worldwide. Hyperglycemia leads to the production of free radicals thus impairing oxidant/antioxidant balance and causing various complications in diabetes. Herbs can pro- vide natural remedies against various diseases in traditional medicine. Phyto- chemicals especially phenolic compounds have some biological properties such as antioxidant and antidiabetic effects. Plant parts of Prunus spinosa are used in traditional medicine against various disorders. This study evaluated the mixture of Prunus spinosa leaves and flowers extract (PSE) on the antioxidant capacity in diabetes. The phenolic profile of PSE was determined by HPLC method. Antioxidant capacity was evaluated with radical scavenging activities as well as total phenolic and flavonoid content. Seven random groups (n = 8) of rats were constituted to evaluate the antioxidant capacity – control, diabetic, PSE25, PSE50, insulin, metformin, and acarbose. Total oxidant status (TOS) and total antioxidant status (TAS) were analyzed in the liver tissues. Chlorogenic acid and ellagic acid were found to be the main compound in the mixture of P. spinosa leaves and flowers extract. Antioxidant capacity of PSE exhibited effective radical scavenging activity. Although oxidative stress seriously increased in diabetes, PSE25 and PSE50 supplementation significantly recuperated liver antioxidant status. In conclusion, PSE markedly has antioxidant capacity through its high phenolic compounds, thus PSE treatment may have potential antioxidant effects for health benefits in diabetes.

HPLC Analysis and the Antioxidant and Preventive Actions of Opuntia stricta Juice Extract against Hepato-Nephrotoxicity and Testicular Injury Induced by Cadmium Exposure.

Opuntia stricta is a rich source of phenolic compounds. This species generally has strong antioxidant activities in vitro and in vivo. This study aimed to analyze the antioxidant properties of phenolic compounds isolated from Opuntia stricta, including its radical scavenging activities and preventive action against Cd-induced oxidative stress in rats. To assess the protection of prickly pear juice extract (PPJE) against Cd-induced hepato-nephrotoxicity and testicular damage, male albino rats received PPJE (250 mg kg−1) and/or Cd (1 mg kg−1) by oral administration and injection, respectively, for five consecutive weeks. The preventive action of PPJE was estimated using biochemical markers of kidney and liver tissues, antioxidant status, and histological examinations. In the present study, the lipid peroxidation, protein carbonyls, antioxidant status, and metallothionein levels were determined in different tissues. The chromatographic analysis indicated that PPJE extract is very rich in phenolic compounds such as verbascoside, catechin hydrate, and oleuropein. Our results showed that PPJE-treated rats had significantly (p < 0.05) decreased Cd levels in liver and kidney tissues. In addition, the administration of PPJE induced a significant (p < 0.05) decrease in lipid peroxidation of 30.5, 54.54, and 40.8 in the liver, kidney, and testicle, respectively, and an increase in antioxidant status in these tissues. Additionally, PPJE showed a strong ability to protect renal, hepatic, and testicular architectures against Cd exposure. This study revealed that PPJE protects against the toxic effects of Cd, possibly through its free radical scavenging and antioxidant activities.

Dietary supplementation of protexin and artichoke extract for modulating growth performance and oxidative stress in broilers

In this study, the effects of Protexin and artichoke extract (AE) were evaluated on the performance and oxidative stress of chickens. Totally, 300 chicks were divided into 4 groups that were fed a basal diet, a diet containing Protexin, AE, and Protexin plus AE all over the growing period. The growth indices were measured weekly and analyzed at 21 and 42 days of age. At 42 days of age, blood samples were collected from all chickens. The concentrations of liver enzymes, lipid profiles, and antioxidant status were measured in blood samples. Results showed that the weight gain (WG) was significantly higher and the feed conversion ratio (FCR) significantly lower in chickens that received Protexin, or Protexin plus AE, in comparison with chickens that received AE and control chickens (P&amp;lt;0.05). Furthermore, the addition of AE plus Protexin can significantly increase the activity of blood Glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and total antioxidant status (TAS) with respect to chickens that were fed Protexin and AE alone. The triglyceride (TG), cholesterol (CHL), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) was lower and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) were higher in chickens that received AE or Protexin plus AE, with a comparison of chickens fed Protexin and control chickens (P&amp;lt;0.05). The levels of aspartate transferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) show a significant decrease in chickens that get Protexin plus AE. In conclusion, continuous utilization of Protexin along with artichoke extract in broiler diets can promote growth performance and modulate oxidative stress in broilers.

In vivo and network pharmacological analysis of the antidiabetic and antihyperlipidemic metabolites of Litsea cubeba fruits

Diabetes mellitus is a major endocrine dysfunction that severely threatens the global population. Litsea cubeba (Lour.) Pers. (Lauraceae), commonly known as "mountain pepper", has been utilized in many chronic disorders in different countries. However, the antidiabetic activity of this plant has not been explored to date. The present study aimed to explore the antidiabetic and antihyperlipidemic activities of the methanolic extract of fruits of L. cubeba (LCMF) from the Darjeeling Himalaya, India, through in vivo experimentations and network pharmacological analysis. The HFD-STZ induced diabetic model rats were treated with LCMF for 28 days and were examined for blood glucose, lipid profile, liver and kidney function parameters, hepatic antioxidant status and histopathology of liver, kidney and pancreas. The LCMF treatment effectively lowered (about 25%) high blood glucose levels and improved serum lipid profiles, liver glycogen content, and normalized antioxidant status. A significant increment in endogenous insulin (6.83 mU/L) and C-peptide levels (0.86 ng/mL), along with the regeneration of beta islets, were observed. LC-MS/MS and in silico network-pharmacological analysis showed the presence of some important metabolites, viz. thymol, scopoline, isosafrole, safrole, arecoline, etc. that interact with the target proteins (viz. IL6, ADRB1 etc.), transcription factors (viz. NFKB1, CYP1A1 etc.) and enzymes (viz. α-glucosidase, α-amylase etc.) associated with diabetes and hyperlipidemia. The study for the first time proved that the traditional edible fruits of L. cubeba have potent antidiabetic and antihyperlipidemic properties. The subsequent detailed characterization and mode of action studies would lead to discovering new antidiabetic and antihyperlipidemic drugs for human use.

Chemopreventive effects of Costus comosus Linn against diethylnitrosamine-induced hepatocellular carcinoma in rats

Introduction: Costus comosus is a potential medicinal plant used traditionally to treat various ailments. The present study aimed to evaluate antioxidant status, lipid peroxidation, and the ameliorative effect of its ethanolic leaf extract against diethylnitrosamine (DEN)-induced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in rats. Methods: HCC was induced by 0.01 % v/v DEN through the drinking water for 16 weeks. The animals were treated with ethanolic leaf extract of C. comosus (EECC) at 200 and 400 mg/kg for 16 weeks. In this study, tumour incidence, tumour volume, tumour burden, lipid peroxidation, antioxidant activity, liver marker enzymes, and histological responses were measured in the animals. At the end of the study, rats were sacrificed, their livers were removed and the levels of antioxidant enzymes were measured in the liver homogenate. Results: In DEN-treated animals, there were 100% tumour occurrences probably due to an imbalance in carcinogen metabolizing enzymes and cellular redox state. The oral administration of ethanolic leaf extract of C. comosus therapy at a dose of 200 and 400 mg/kg reduced lipid peroxide levels and restored the increased activities of liver marker enzymes and antioxidant status to near normal. The biochemical findings corroborate histological findings, indicating that the leaf extract has a significant hepatoprotective impact in a dose-dependent manner. Conclusion: The results of the present study showed the promising anti-carcinogenic effects of ethanolic leaf extract of C. comosus against the DEN-induced HCC in rats.

Blend of essential oils can reduce diarrheal disorders and improve liver antioxidant status in weaning piglets.

This study was to assess the effects of different doses of an essential oil blend (EOB) on growth performance, diarrhea occurrence (DO), hematological and blood biochemical profile, intestinal morphometry, morphology and microbiology, relative weight and length of organs, digestive content pH, and liver antioxidant status in weaning piglets. A total of 135 barrows (7.09±0.29 kg body weight) were allotted randomly in a randomized complete block design based on body weight with nine replications and three animals per pen. Dietary treatments were a negative control (NC): basal diet; positive control (PC): NC plus 125 mg performance-enhancing antibiotic (enramycin 8%)/kg diet; NC plus 100 mg EOB/kg diet (EO100); NC plus 200 mg EOB/kg diet (EO200); and NC plus 400 mg EOB/kg diet (EO400). Diarrhea occurrence was monitored daily, and performance at the end of each phase. Gain to feed ratio was greater (p<0.05) in starter II pigs fed EO400 and EO200 than in those fed EO100. Pigs fed EO400 had lower (p<0.05) DO than those fed NC and EO100 in the total period. Pre-starter II pigs fed NC had (p<0.05) lower serum total protein and plasma protein than pigs fed PC. Pigs fed EO100 showed smaller (p<0.05) mean corpuscular volume (MCV) than pigs fed EO400. Starter II pigs fed EO400 had (p<0.05) greater MCV and lower mean corpuscular hemoglobin and erythrocytes than those fed EO100. There was a greater concentration (p<0.05) of band cells for PC, similar to EO400 and EO200. Performance-enhancing antibiotic and EOB to diets increased (p<0.05) liver superoxide dismutase activity. Adding 200 and 400 mg EOB/kg diet decreased DO and was advantageous to hematological and blood biochemical profile and liver antioxidant status without being detrimental to growth performance and gastrointestinal health in nursery pigs.

The effect of light regime and time of slaughter in broiler on broiler performance, liver antioxidant status, and expression of genes related to peptide absorption in the jejunum and melatonin synthesis in the brain.

This study aimed to assess the effects of light regime and time of slaughter on primal cut and organ weights, peptide transporter 1 (PEPT1) gene expression in the jejunum, arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase (AANAT) gene expression in the brain, and liver oxidant/antioxidant status in broilers aged 37 days. The experiment was conducted in a factorial completely randomized design, with two light regimes (intermittent light varying according to bird age and continuous light under an 18 h light/6 h dark photoperiod) and four times of slaughter (2:00, 8:00, 14:00 and 20:00 h). There was an interaction effect on PEPT1 and AANAT expression, lipid and protein oxidation and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity. In both light regimes, PEPT1 expression responded cubically to slaughter time. In the continuous light group, PEPT1 expression was highest in birds slaughtered at 2:00 and 14:00 h, whereas, in the intermittent light treatment, expression was highest at 8:00 h. In the continuous light regime, AANAT expression had a cubic relationship with time of slaughter, with the greatest values recorded at 20:00 h. In the intermittent light regime, slaughter time showed a cubic effect on lipid oxidation, which was highest at 8:00 h. In the continuous light group, there was a cubic effect on nitrite concentration, lipid oxidation, protein oxidation, and SOD activity; nitrite levels, lipid oxidation, and protein oxidation were highest and SOD activity was lowest in birds slaughtered at 14:00 h. Time of slaughter influenced catalase activity, which responded cubically; catalase activity was lowest at 8:00 and 14:00 h. This study is the first to demonstrate that PEPT1 expression in the jejunum of broilers follows a diurnal rhythm and varies according to light regime. The results also suggest that mainly continuous lighting and slaughter at 14:00 h when the animals are possibly more active may be more stressful to broilers.

Hepatoprotective Effect of Caesalpinia sappan L. Ethanolic Extract on Alloxan Induced Diabetic Rats

Background: The complications of Diabetes Mellitus (DM) may lead to other health problems such as heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, leg amputation, vision loss, nerve and liver damage. Increasing free radicals in the hyperglycemic condition in DM can induce inflammation and necrosis that lead to liver damage. This damage causes elevated hepatic enzymes such as aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT). Malondialdehyde (MDA) is a biomarker that is often used to evaluate oxidative stress including in vivo experimental models of diabetes. Caesalpinia sappan L. is one of the well-known herbs which has a strong antioxidant effect and has various pharmacology activities, including antidiabetic and hepatoprotective. Objectives: This study is aimed to investigate the effect of Caesalpinia sappan L. ethanolic extract on liver function and antioxidant status in diabetic rats. Material and Methods: Twenty-four diabetic male rats were divided into six groups consisting of the normal control group, negative control, positive control, and Caesalpinia sappan L. extract treatment group at a dose of 50, 100, and 400 mg/kg BW. The diabetic status was induced by alloxan. The animals were given treatment for 14 days, and on the 15th day, their blood and liver were collected to measure the level of AST, ALT, plasma MDA, and liver MDA. Results: The extracts of Caesalpinia sappan L. can decrease the levels of AST and ALP and show a low number of MDA levels both in plasma and liver on diabetic rats induced by alloxan. The dose of 100 mg/kg BW has the best result for lowering AST and ALT levels; meanwhile, the dose of 400 mg/kg BW shows the least value of MDA among all the doses. Conclusions: The Caesalpinia sappan L. ethanolic extract has potential activity as the hepatoprotective and antioxidant in diabetic status.

Ameliorative effect of the ethnomedicinal plant Blepharis maderaspatensis (L.) B.Heyne ex Roth on lipopolysaccharide-induced acute liver inflammation and oxidative stress in Wistar rat model

BackgroundBlepharis maderaspatensis is an ethnomedicinal plant used by the Mavilan and Koraga tribes of Kerala state, India for the treatment of liver diseases. Thus, the present study aims to evaluate the liver protective activity of defatted ethanolic extract of B. maderaspatensis on lipopolysaccharide-induced acute liver inflammation and oxidative stress in Wistar rat model. MethodsPreliminary phytochemical evaluation and high-performance thin-layer chromatography fingerprint validation were performed. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents were measured using the Folin-Ciocalteu method and the aluminium chloride method, respectively. The acute oral toxicity study was conducted in Swiss albino mice in accordance with OECD 423 guideline. Effect of defatted ethanolic extract of the whole plant of B. maderaspatensis (BmE) on liver inflammation was evaluated in LPS-induced Wistar rat model. The rats were treated with BmE (100, 250 and 500 mg/kg body weight) once daily for 7 days prior to the LPS (single dose i.p., 10 mg/kg b.w.) challenge. Liver tissue biochemicals (ALT, AST and ALP), and antioxidant status (SOD, CAT, GSH, MDA, NO and MPO) in euthanised experimental rats were carried out using commercial kits/standard procedures. Haematology (RBC, WBC, Hb and PLT; 4 and 24 h), and histopathology analysis were also performed. Serum IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α and PGE2 production were determined by ELISA. The expressions of COX-2, iNOS, IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α and NF-κB were analysed by qRT-PCR. Phosphorylation of IκB-α was measured by Western blotting. LC-MS analysis of BmE was also performed. ResultsThe LD50 value of BmE was found to be >5000 mg/kg b.w. BmE500 showed significant protection from LPS-induced liver injury as evidenced by reduced serum enzyme levels (AST, ALT and ALP; p≤ 0.001) and markedly improved the liver antioxidant status (MDA, GSH, SOD and CAT; p≤ 0.001), when compared to the LPS alone treated group. Haematology (24 h, RBC, WBC, Hb and PLT; p≤ 0.001) and histopathology also supported the above results. BmE500 pre-treatment significantly suppressed the LPS-induced expression of iNOS (p≤ 0.001) and COX-2 (p≤ 0.001), and the subsequent release of NO (p≤ 0.001) and PGE2 (p≤ 0.001). Moreover, BmE500 inhibited the gene expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including IL-1β (p≤ 0.001), IL-6 (p≤ 0.001), and TNF-α (p≤ 0.01), which is supported by ELISA results. In addition, BmE500 markedly attenuated the activation of transcription factor NF-κB (p≤ 0.001) as well as phosphorylation of IκBα, as evidenced from the qRT-PCR and Western blot analysis, respectively. The silymarin (100 mg/kg b.w.) drug standard also showed significant improvement in all parameters analysed. ConclusionResults of the present investigation suggest that BmE has a significant protective effect on LPS-induced acute liver inflammation via attenuating inflammatory reactions, evidenced by the inhibition of NF-κB signalling cascade, and also through its antioxidant effects. Thus, the pharmacological data generated provide experimental evidence that clearly justifies the use of B. maderaspatensis as a liver protective agent in tribal medicine.

Changes on meat fatty acid profile, cholesterol and hepatic metabolism associated with antioxidants and canola oil supplementation for Nellore cattle

This study investigated the effect of canola oil supplementation associated with vitamin E and selenium on cholesterol and liver metabolism and meat fatty acid profile of Nellore cattle. Forty-eight Nellore bulls were randomly assessed to were randomly distributed in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement: two levels of oil in the diet (no inclusion and 3% canola oil, defined as NO and OIL, respectively) and two levels of antioxidants in the diet (no inclusion and 2.5 mg of Se/kg of dry matter (DM) + 500 UI of vitamin E/kg of DM, defined as NA and ANT, respectively). Blood samples were collected at the beginning (day 0) and at days 28, 56 and 84 of the finishing periods for selenium, total cholesterol and its fractions and triglycerides quantification. After slaughter, liver samples were obtained from each animal to analyze the activity of reduced glutathione (GSH), oxidized glutathione (GSSG), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and TBARS (substances reactive to 2-thiobarbituric acid). Additionally, 5 g of Longissimus thoracis (LT) were collected for evaluation of cholesterol, ethereal extract and fatty acids profile. Serum selenium concentration has a quadratic increase by antioxidant treatments according to the days on feed. Animal fed ANT presented a better liver antioxidant status, improving the activity of GSSG, GSH-Px, decreasing GSH, TBARS values and decreased the cholesterol concentration in the LT. As well as, decreased cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol in blood serum. Addition of 3% canola oil in diets for cattle improved fatty acid profile in meat and associated with antioxidants (selenium and vitamin E) increased antioxidants status and promoted reducing the cholesterol concentration in meat and serum. Supplementation with canola oil increased unsaturated, decreased saturated fat, increased the amount of n-3 and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) meat content, and improved the n6/n-3 ratio. As consequence, the supplementation with canola oil and antioxidants in Nellore cattle diet can be a potential strategy to provide meat for human consumption with better lipids content in beef meat, with higher n-3 and lower cholesterol, which might impact positively the meat consumers health.

Grape seed alleviates lindane-induced oxidative stress and improves growth performance, caecal fermentation and antioxidant capacity in growing rabbits.

This study evaluated the protective effect of grape seed on performance, caecal characteristics, blood metabolites and liver antioxidant status in lindane-treated rabbits. Four-week-old New Zealand White rabbits (n=96) with an initial body weight of 0.750 ± 0.23g were randomly divided into four groups (n=24). One group was the control received only corn oil orally, while group L were received lindane daily via gavage in corn oil (4mg/kg BW; 1/50 LD50 for oral dose), group GS was treated with 50g grape seed /kg diet, and group LGS treated with a combination of both L and GS for 98days. Results revealed that final body weight (FBW), average daily gain (ADG), dry matter intake and feed efficiency (FE) were similar between GS and control groups, and achieved the highest FBW and ADG, and the best FE. Caecum pH of the L group increased, while the caecum pH of the GS group decreased sharply. There was a significant increase in the concentration of total VFA, acetic acid, propionic acid and NH3 -N in the GS group, but butyric acid level decreased. GS treatment resulted in a significant increase in the concentrations of total protein, albumin and AChE. GPx, GST, CAT and SOD activity decreased, but TBARS activity significantly increased in the group L, while GS caused a significant elevation of antioxidant activity in the liver. These results confirm that the antioxidant compounds present in grape seed can alleviate the oxidative stress caused by lindane-induced hepatotoxicity and could be a useful supplement to maintain health and improve performance in rabbits.

Dietary supplementation with inosine-5\u2032-monophosphate improves the functional, energetic, and antioxidant status of liver and muscle growth in pigs

Inosine 5′-monophosphate (5′-IMP) is an essential nucleotide for de novo nucleotide biosynthesis and metabolism of energy, proteins, and antioxidants. Nucleotides are conditionally essential, as they cannot be produced sufficiently rapidly to meet the needs of the body in situations of oxidative stress or rapid muscle growth. A deficient intake of nucleotides can result in decreased ATP and GTP synthesis and impaired metabolism. We demonstrated that supplementation of finishing pig diets with 5′-IMP reduces the relative weight of the liver, and increases oxygen consumption during mitochondrial respiration without changing the ADP/O ratio, indicating an increase in the respiratory efficiency of liver mitochondria. We also observed a reduction in liver lipid peroxidation and an increase in muscle creatine. Moreover, 5′IMP supplementation increases slaughter weight, lean meat yield, sarcomere length, and backfat thickness in finishing barrows, demonstrating influence on protein metabolism. We suggest that 5′-IMP supplementation increase the mitochondrial respiratory capacity when the liver metabolic activity is stimulated, enhances antioxidant defense, and promotes muscle growth in finishing barrows.

Supplementing a phytogenic-rich herbal mixture to heat-stressed lambs: Growth performance, carcass yield, and muscle and liver antioxidant status

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a phytogenic-rich herbal mixture (PRHM) supplementation, including cinnamon, turmeric, rosemary, and clove buds, on performance and blood, liver, and meat antioxidant capacity and metabolic status of lambs during heat stress. A total of eighteen male Afshari × Chaal lambs were equally divided into three groups and offered a diet containing different levels of PRHM (0%, 1%, and 2%) for 48 days. Lambs were slaughtered at the end of the experiment to evaluate carcass weight, dressing percentage, and meat and liver tissues antioxidant status. The mean THI was 25.9 throughout the study. Results showed that 2% PRHM supplementation increased overall DMI compared to control treatment. Also, 2% PRHM supplementation improved BW and ADG in the second period of the study (day 29–48), resulting in greater hot carcass weight and dressing percentage than control treatment. The 2% PRHM supplementation to lambs tended to increase cholesterol but decreased creatinine concentration. In addition, compared to control treatment, lambs who received 1 and 2% PRHM had lower alanine aminotransferase activity during the second period of the study. Moreover, 2% PRHM supplementation tended to increase liver total antioxidant capacity and decreased serum and liver malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration compared to control treatment. Current findings indicate that 2% PRHM supplementation as a natural additive promoted feed intake, enhanced serum and liver antioxidant status, and improved growth performance of heat-stressed feedlot lambs.

Effect of exogenous melatonin on the antioxidant defense system in the liver and small intestine of the Syrian hamster (Mesocricetus auratus)

Background. Due to the growing light pollution and the development of new territories, including northern ones, the search for drugs that increase the adaptive capacity of the organism is promising.The aim. We studied the effects of the exogenous melatonin (100 µg/day/animal) on antioxidant status of liver and small intestine in Syrian hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus) in the light conditions of North-West of Russia (Petrozavodsk, northern lighting – NL).Materials and methods. Female hamsters were exposed to a 12/12 light/dark cycle (LD; n = 12) or NL for 3 months. In NL light conditions hamsters were divided into two groups: NL-control (received placebo; n = 12) and NL-mel (received melatonin; n = 12). The study was conducted from the period of the summer solstice – June 25 (NL: 19.36/4.24) to September 25 (NL: 12/12) (autumn equinox).Results. Animals were kept in the NL conditions had decreased the levels of GSH and activities of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase) at initial stage of experiment as well as increased TBA reactive substances (TBARS) level at the beginning and after a month of the experiment in the liver in comparison to control (LD). It was observed that in the small intestine the activities of SOD and the levels of GSH (initial and intermediate stages) and TBARS (end of the experiment) were significantly higher in NL in comparison to LD. Liver and small intestine TBARS concentrations after one and three months of the experiment were decreased in NL-mel in comparison to NL-control.Conclusion. The results of the study indicate the sensitivity of the antioxidant defense system in the tissues of the liver and small intestine of Syrian hamster to the photoperiod and exogenous melatonin. The present study revealed that exogenous melatonin was able to reduce the level of TBARS and increase the activity of SOD and CAT in the light conditions of North-West of Russia.

Different carbon sources influences the growth and digestive enzyme activity of grey mullet (Mugil cephalus) in biofloc based nursery rearing system

Aim: To assess the impact of different carbon sources on growth performance of grey mullet, Mugil cephalus fry in biofloc based culture system during nursery rearing phase. Methodology: The experimental trial was carried out for 60 days using three carbon sources, cassava, jaggery and barley in triplicate following a Completely Randomized Design. The carbon nitrogen ratio (C:N) in the systems were maintained at 15:1. Grey mullet fry (0.91g) were stocked @ of 1 fry 10 l-1 and were fed with pelleted feed (35% crude protein) @ 4% of fish body weight thrice daily. Results: Significantly higher (P&lt;0.05) growth performance, in terms of Specfic Growth Rate (3.78 % day-1) with lower Feed Conversion Ratio (1.35) were found in barley based biofloc group. Similarly, enhanced digestive enzyme activity in terms of amylase (8.78 Unit mg protein-1 min-1), lipase (2.77 Unit mg protein-1 min-1) and protease (4.22 Unit mg protein-1 min-1) were found in barley based biofloc group. Non- specific immune parameters such as lysozyme, respiratory burst activity and myeloperoxidase activity were significantly higher in barley based treatment group followed by jaggery and cassava based treatment groups. Likewise, stress indicators in serum and antioxidant status in liver were found to be lower in barley based treatment compared to cassava and jaggery based treatment groups. Interpretation: Rearing of Mugil cephalus in biofloc culture system is practicable; however, the carbon source required for biofloc production could be barley, compared to cassava and jaggery, in order to achieve maximum growth and to reduce the stress.

Chemical Composition and Protective Effect of Rosmarinus officinalis on Alcohol-Induced Serum Hepatic Changes and Liver Injury in Male Rats

Background: Is a pleasant-smelling perennial shrub that grows in many parts of the world, Rosmarinus officinalis a well known valuable herbal medicine which is widely used in pharmaceuticals and traditional medicine as a digestive, tonic, astringent, diuretic, diaphoretic and useful for urinary ailments. Objective: The objective of this study has, on the one hand, focused on the changes in hepatotoxicity induced by the chronic administration of ethyl alcohol according to a biochemical and histological experimental approach and, on the other hand, on the chemical composition which was determined. As well as, the hepato-protective effect of the ethanolic extract of Rosmarinus officinalis (EER), whether to restore or not the harmful alterations due to ethylism was evaluated. Method: The study included twenty-four male Wistar albino rats which were divided into four groups. The rats received ethanolic extraction of Rosmarinus officinalis orally at a dose of 200 mg/kg. Hepatotoxicity was induced orally with a daily dose of 05 mL of 20% alcoholic solution for 90 days. Results: The chemical characterization of the ethanolic extract of Rosmarinus officinalis (EER) by HPLC/UV shows the presence of polyphenolic compounds and numerous flavonoids, the main constituent of which is rosmarinic acid. It was noticed that the Ethanol caused an increase in liver function parameters (aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, triglyceride and cholesterol, total bilirubin) compared to the control and oxidative stress through a significant decrease in antioxidant liver enzymes Superoxidase dismutase (9.39 U/mg), glutathione peroxidase (12.89 U/mg) and catalase (25.39 U/mg) and increased malondialdehyde levels. The histological study showed significant lesions in the liver. Conclusion: The disturbances in liver function, antioxidant status and structural damage to the liver caused by ethanol have been restored by the administration of the ethanolic extract of Rosmarinus officinalis which strongly justifies its therapeutic effect.

Growth performance, serum biochemical parameters, immune parameters and hepatic antioxidant status of yellow catfish Pelteobagrus fulvidraco supplemented with Sargassum horneri hot-water extract

The yellow catfish, Pelteobagrus fulvidraco, an important aquatic species of high economic value and excellent meat quality, has suffered great losses due to disease in intensive farming. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of Sargassum horneri extract (SHE) as a dietary supplement on growth performance, blood biochemical parameters, immune parameters and the liver antioxidant status of juvenile yellow catfish. A basal diet was supplemented with increasing amounts of SHE to formulate five groups of experimental diets (0 (control), 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%, and 0.4% SHE). Four-hundred and fifty fingerlings with approximate mean initial body weight of 3 g were fed the experimental diets for 8 weeks. The results of our present study revealed that the SHE-fed groups showed significantly higher final body weight, weight gain rate and specific growth rate than those in control group. Meanwhile, SHE diets increased significantly the levels of serum total protein and decreased significantly the contents of serum total cholesterol and triglyceride. The application of SHE in fish diet increased significantly the activities of serum lysozyme, alkaline phosphatase and acid phosphatase, and complement 3 contents. Furthermore, SHE supplementation increased antioxidant capacity and reduced lipid peroxidation in the liver of yellow catfish. In conclusion, dietary supplementation with SHE could promote growth performance, stimulate immune parameters, and improve hepatic antioxidant status in yellow catfish. Based on the final body weight, the secondary curve equation analysis suggested that SHE at 0.24% is recommended as the optimum level of supplementation.

Growth performance, antioxidant ability, biochemical index in serum, liver histology and hepatic metabolomics analysis of juvenile hybrid grouper (♀ Epinephelus fuscoguttatus × ♂ Epinephelus lanceolatus) fed with oxidized fish oil

Fish oil oxidation is a common phenomenon in aquaculture and produces harmful substances that can cause oxidative stress to aquatic animals. However, the metabolic mechanism of oxidized fish oil in the liver of hybrid groupers (♀ Epinephelus fuscoguttatus × ♂ Epinephelus lanceolatus) is still unclear. In this study, a rearing experiment was conducted for 65 days with diets containing 0, 3, 6, and 9% oxidized fish oil (referred to as R, L, M, and H respectively) to investigate the effect of oxidative stress on growth performance, liver antioxidant status, biochemical index in serum, liver fat accumulation and hepatic metabolism profile of juvenile hybrid groupers. The results showed the oxidized fish oil inhibited the growth performance of grouper, and the growth performance became worse as the proportion of oxidized fish oil in the diet increased. Meanwhile, oxidized fish oil caused oxidative stress in the liver by reducing antioxidant enzyme activity and increasing the content of malondialdehyde. In addition, oxidative stress disrupted lipid metabolism by lowering low-density lipoproteins and increasing elevated-density lipoproteins in serum, and promoted the formation of fatty livers. To explore the mechanism of oxidative stress in the liver, the samples in the fresh fish oil group and the highest oxidized fish oil group were selected for non-targeted metabolome analysis. The differential metabolites in the livers were mainly phosphatidylcholines, phosphatidylethanolamines, and lysophosphatidylchoines with an upregulated status under oxidative stress. The liver responded to oxidative stress through the glycerophospholipid metabolism and choline metabolism in cancer pathways. In conclusion, oxidized fish oil inhibited growth in hybrid grouper and caused oxidative stress and fat accumulation in the liver. This oxidative stress, in turn, changed the hepatic metabolism profile.

Effects of C60 Fullerene on Thioacetamide-Induced Rat Liver Toxicity and Gut Microbiome Changes.

Thioacetamide (TAA) is widely used to study liver toxicity accompanied by oxidative stress, inflammation, cell necrosis, fibrosis, cholestasis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. As an efficient free radical’s scavenger, C60 fullerene is considered a potential liver-protective agent in chemically-induced liver injury. In the present work, we examined the hepatoprotective effects of two C60 doses dissolved in virgin olive oil against TAA-induced hepatotoxicity in rats. We showed that TAA-induced increase in liver oxidative stress, judged by the changes in the activities of SOD, CAT, GPx, GR, GST, the content of GSH and 4-HNE, and expression of HO-1, MnSOD, and CuZnSOD, was more effectively ameliorated with a lower C60 dose. Improvement in liver antioxidative status caused by C60 was accompanied by a decrease in liver HMGB1 expression and an increase in nuclear Nrf2/NF-κB p65 ratio, suggesting a reduction in inflammation, necrosis and fibrosis. These results were in accordance with liver histology analysis, liver comet assay, and changes in serum levels of ALT, AST, and AP. The changes observed in gut microbiome support detrimental effects of TAA and hepatoprotective effects of low C60 dose. Less protective effects of a higher C60 dose could be a consequence of its enhanced aggregation and related pro-oxidant role.