Aspartate Aminotransaminase Research Articles

Grape Seed Extract from Koshu Cultivar Antagonizes Dioxin-Induced Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Activation

The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) pathway is now considered an important pharmacological target for many human diseases. This study examined the effects of grape seed extract (GSE) obtained from the Koshu grape variety on AhR activity. The Koshu-derived GSE inhibited 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-<i>p</i>-dioxin (TCDD)-mediated AhR activation in vivo and in vitro. These results suggest that Koshu GSE has an antagonistic effect on TCDD-induced AhR activation. Furthermore, gavage administration of TCDD resulted in the elevation of liver function, but administration of Koshu GSE together with TCDD did not elevate serum aspartate aminotransaminase (AST) and alanine transaminase (ALT) levels. These results suggest that Koshu GSE may have the potential to prevent liver disorders.

Renoprotective effects of Moringa oleifera pods in 7,12-dimethylbenz［a］anthracene-exposed mice

To investigate the potential of hydroethanolic extract of Moringa oleifera (MOHE) against 7, 12-dimethylbenz [a] anthracene (DMBA)-induced toxicity in male Swiss albino mice. Experimental mice were respectively pretreated with 200 and 400 mg/kg of MOHE, and 0.5% and 1% of butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) for two weeks prior to the administration of 15 mg/kg of DMBA, respectively. Levels of xenobiotic metabolizing enzymes such as cytochrome (Cyt) P450 and Cyt b5, activities of reduced glutathione (GSH) and glutathione-S-transferase (GST) and renal aspartate amino transaminase (AST), alanine amino transaminase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and content of protein and total cholesterol were measured to determine the nephrotoxicity caused by DMBA and to elucidate the ameliorating role of M. oleifera. Single oral administration of 15 mg/kg of DMBA resulted in significant increases in Cyt P450 and Cyt b5 (P<0.01). The toxic effect of DMBA was justified by the significant decreases in the activities of GSH and GST in renal tissues (P<0.05). The levels of renal AST, ALT and ALP and protein content which are indicative of renocellular damage were also found decreased along with significant increase in total cholesterol content in DMBA-treated mice (P<0.01). The DMBA-induced alterations in the tissues were significantly reversed after pretreatment with 200 and 400 mg/kg of MOHE orally for 14 d (P<0.01). The effects of MOHE in enhancing the levels of antioxidants and enhancing the levels of biochemical assays in DMBA-induced carcinogenesis are by reducing the formation of free radicals. This study rationalizes the ethnomedicinal use of M. oleifera for the protection against nephrotoxicity induced by chemical carcinogens.

Effect of Commiphora mukul gum resin on hepatic marker enzymes, lipid peroxidation and antioxidants status in pancreas and heart of streptozotocin induced diabetic rats

ObjectiveTo study the antioxidant efficacy of Commiphora mukul (C. mukul) gum resin ethanolic extract in streptozotocin (STZ) induced diabetic rats. MethodsThe male Wistar albino rats were randomly divided into four groups of eight animals each: Control group (C), CM-treated control group (C+CMEE), Diabetic control group (D), CM-treated diabetic group (D+CMEE). Diabetes was induced by intraperitoneal injection of STZ (55 mg/kg/bwt). After being confirmed the diabetic rats were treated with C. mukul gum resin ethanolic extract (CMEE) for 60 days. The biochemical estimations like antioxidant, oxidative stress marker enzymes and hepatic marker enzymes of tissues were performed. ResultsThe diabetic rats showed increased level of enzymatic activities aspartate aminotransaminase (AST), alanine aminotransaminase (ALT) in liver and kidney and oxidative markers like lipid peroxidation (LPO) and protein oxidation (PO) in pancreas and heart. Antioxidant enzyme activities were significantly decreased in the pancreas and heart compared to control group. Administration of CMEE (200 mg/kg bw) to diabetic rats for 60 days significantly reversed the above parameters towards normalcy. ConclusionsIn conclusion, our data indicate the preventive role of C. mukul against STZ-induced diabetic oxidative stress; hence this plant could be used as an adjuvant therapy for the prevention and/or management of diabetes and aggravated antioxidant status.

Reference ranges for laboratory parameters in ferrets

The purpose of this study was to establish reference ranges (robust methods) for 51 laboratory parameters in ferrets for use in private practice. Current literature concerning reference values in ferrets...

Evaluation of the Pharmacological Function of Ulinastatin in Experimental Animals

Organ protection is a routine therapy in severe injuries. Our aim was to evaluate the beneficial effects of ulinastatin in experimental rats. Rats were randomly divided into a sham control, a model control and an ulinastatin-treated group. Malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels were determined. Serum amylase, serum aspartate aminotransaminase (AST), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and creatine kinase isoenzyme (CKMD) activities, interleukin-8 (IL-8), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), nitric oxide (NO) and cardiac troponin I (nTnl) levels were examined. Results showed that ulinastatin decreased MDA levels and ameliorated the down-regulation of SOD activity. In addition, ulinastatin pretreatment may decrease serum AST, LDH and CKMD activities, IL-8, TNF-α, and nTnl levels, and enhance NO level. Our results demonstrated that oxidative injury occurred after IR and that ulinastatin exhibits significant protective effects against these effects.

Development of an Electrochemical-Based Aspartate Aminotransferase Nanoparticle Ir-C Biosensor for Screening of Liver Diseases

Aspartate aminotransaminase (AST) is a hepatocelluar enzyme released into the bloodstream when hepatic cells are damaged, resulting in elevated blood levels of AST. A single use, disposable biosensor prototype, composed of catalytic iridium nano-particles dispersed on carbon paste, was developed to detect enzymatically-produced H2O2 in AST-mediated reactions. This biosensor is capable of measuring AST levels in a phosphate buffer and undiluted human serum over the concentration range of 0 to 0.89 μg/mL AST concentration (corresponding to 0–250 UL−1 specific activity). The biosensor operates at relatively low oxidation potential (+0.3 volt (V) versus the printed Ag/AgCl), minimizing any potential chemical interference in human serum. The measurements of AST in human serum using the biosensor compared well with those measured by standard hospital spectrophotometric assays. This Ir-C biosensor may be useful for AST measurements in the clinical environment.

Biochemical and histological impact of Vernonia amygdalina supplemented diet in obese rats

This study was carried out to evaluate the anti-obesity effect of Vernonia amygdalina Del. (VA) supplemented diet. VA leaf powder was fed at 5% and 15% to diet-induced obese rats for 4weeks and its effect compared with orlistat (5.14mg/kg p.o.), an anti-obesity drug. Food intake, body and organ weights, total body fat, some lipid components and amino transaminase activities in serum, hepatocytes and brain; as well as serum glucose, were measured during or at end of the study. Result showed respective decrease of 12.78% and 38.51% in body weight gain, of VA fed rats against 17.45% of orlistat at end of study (P<0.05); but with no effect on food intake. Total body fat was lowered by 28.04% and 30.02% vs. obese control rats (CDC) (P<0.05). Furthermore, serum triacylglycerol (TG), serum and brain total cholesterol (TCHOL), were down regulated at 15% VA supplementation (P<0.05). Serum glucose which increased in obese rats by 46.26% (P<0.05) vs. NC, indicating intolerance, was restored by VA (38.75% and 34.65%) and orlistat (31.80%) vs. CDC (P<0.05). VA diet also exerted hepato-protection, via lowering serum alanine amino transaminase (ALT) (41.35% and 27.13%) and aspartate amino transaminase (AST) (17.09% and 43.21%) activities (P<0.05). Orlistat had no effect on these enzymes. Histology of adipose tissue corroborated the changes on total body fat. We concluded that, diet supplemented with VA can attenuate dietary obesity as well as ameliorates the potential risks of hepato-toxicity and glucose intolerance associated with obesity.

Effect of light exposure on metalloporphyrin-treated newborn mice

Neonatal hyperbilirubinemia arises from increased bilirubin production and decreased bilirubin elimination. Although phototherapy safely and effectively reduces bilirubin levels, recent evidence shows that it has adverse effects. Therefore, alternative treatments are warranted. Metalloporphyrins, competitive inhibitors of heme oxygenase (HO), the rate-limiting enzyme in bilirubin production, effectively reduce bilirubin formation; however, many are photoreactive. Here, we investigated possible photosensitizing effects of chromium mesoporphyrin (CrMP) and zinc deuteroporphyrin bis-glycol (ZnBG). Administration of CrMP or ZnBG to 3-d-old mouse pups (3.75-30.0 μmol/kg intraperitoneally) and exposure to cool white (F20T12CW) and blue (TL20W/52) fluorescent lights (+L) for 3 h, resulted in a dose-dependent mortality (50% lethal dose (LD50) = 21.5 and 19.5 μmol/kg, respectively). In contrast to ZnBG, there was no significant difference in survival between the CrMP+L and CrMP groups. Following 30 μmol/kg ZnBG+L, we found significant weight loss, decreased liver antioxidant capacities, and increased aspartate aminotransaminase levels. At 6-d post-light exposure, ZnBG+L-treated pups showed gross and histologic skin changes at doses >7.5 μmol/kg. No lethality was observed following treatment with 30 μmol ZnBG/kg plus exposure to blue light-emitting diodes. Phototoxicity of ZnBG was dependent on light source, emission spectrum, and irradiance. Low doses of ZnBG (<3.75 μmol/kg) retained maximal HO inhibitory potency without photosensitizing effects, and therefore are potentially useful in treating neonatal hyperbilirubinemia.

Genetic, immunological and clinical risk factors for biliary strictures following liver transplantation

Biliary strictures after liver transplantation (LT) are a major cause of morbidity and reduced graft survival. The purpose of this study was to investigate genetic, immunological and clinical risk factors for the occurrence of post-LT ischaemic type biliary lesions (ITBLs) and biliary anastomotic strictures (AS). Clinical and laboratory data, chemokine receptor (CCR) genotypes, chemotactic cytokines and anti-major-histocompatibility complex antibodies in serum were investigated in 162 LT patients. In the univariate analysis, older donor and recipient age, partial LT, high peak aspartate aminotransaminase (AST) levels and CC chemokine receptor 5 delta32 loss-of-function mutation (CCR5Δ32) were associated with ITBL, whereas LT for acute liver failure (ALF), ABO-compatible non-identical LT, presence of donor-specific anti-human leucocyte antigen (HLA) class II antibodies and fractalkine receptor (CX3CR1)-249II allele were associated with AS. In the multivariate analysis, CCR5Δ32 was an independent risk factor for ITBL, whereas LT for ALF, ABO-compatible non-identical LT, and CX3CR1-249II allele remained predictive for AS. Serum levels of interferon-gamma and interleukin (IL)-6 as well as IL-10 were significantly increased in patients with biliary strictures. Specific chemokine receptor polymorphisms of the recipient are associated with development of post-LT biliary strictures. Altered cytokine profile may contribute to enhanced fibrotic tissue remodelling and biliary stricture formation. Screening of anti-HLA antibodies might be useful for early identification of at-risk patients who could benefit from closer surveillance and tailored immunosuppressive regimen. Our findings may have relevance for prediction and management of post-LT biliary strictures.

Excretion of loline alkaloids in urine and faeces of sheep dosed with meadow fescue (Festuca pratensis) seed containing high concentrations of loline alkaloids

AIM: To determine the effect of oral dosing of sheep with loline alkaloids on their excretion in urine and faeces, and to monitor for any toxic effects. METHODS: In Experiment 1, six 9-month-old ewe lambs were given a single oral dose of loline alkaloids (52 mg/kg bodyweight (BW); acute exposure) as a suspension of ground meadow fescue (Festuca pratensis) seed in water. In Experiment 2, on six consecutive days, six ewe lambs were given three doses of loline (68 mg/kg BW/day; chronic exposure). Blood was collected at variable intervals up to 72 h in Experiment 1, and up to 8 days in Experiment 2, for haematology and measurement of alkaline phosphatase, aspartate aminotransaminase, creatine kinase and γ-glutamyl transferase in plasma. Urine and faecal samples were collected at similar times for measurement of creatinine in urine and loline alkaloid analysis. A post mortem with histopathology was carried out on two animals at the end of each experiment. RESULTS: The loline alkaloids, N-acetyl norloline, N-formyl loline, N-acetyl loline, N-methyl loline and loline base were detected in urine within 15 minutes after the single dosing. N-formyl loline and loline base were the predominant metabolites in urine in both experiments. The total quantity of lolines excreted in both urine and faeces was 10% and 4% of the amount dosed in Experiments 1 and 2, respectively. In both experiments, the clinical chemistry parameters in blood and urine were within normal ranges. Post-mortem and histopathological examination did not show any abnormalities. CONCLUSIONS: This is the first report of loline alkaloid profiles in both urine and faeces of sheep. The appearance of loline alkaloids and the loline base in urine within 15 minutes suggests rapid uptake, metabolism and excretion. Loline alkaloids were non-toxic to sheep at the concentrations they are exposed to under New Zealand grazing conditions. The low recovery of loline alkaloids in urine and faeces in the absence of toxicity signs suggests lolines are extensively metabolised; probably to forms other than N-formyl loline, N-methyl loline, N-acetyl loline, N-acetyl norloline, and loline base in the digestive tract of sheep prior to absorption, and/or in the liver or other tissues following absorption.

Serum adipocyte fatty acid binding protein in liver transplant recipients and the metabolic syndrome

Background. Liver transplantation is often associated with metabolic derangements. Adipocyte fatty-acid-binding protein 4 (AFABP4) integrates inflammatory and metabolic responses. It has also been associated with metabolic syndrome in animal models and clinical studies in the general population.Aim. To determine the role of AFABP4 in post-transplant metabolic syndrome.Material and methods. Consecutive patients followed for at least 6 months after liver transplantation were tested for insulin resistance by homeostasis model assessment (HOMA). Serum levels of AFABP4 were tested by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.Results. The study group included 76 patients (64.5% male, mean age 56.3 ± 12.4 years). Hypertension was present in 56.5%, hyperlipidemia in 69.7%, diabetes mellitus in 23.6%. Half of the patients met at least 3 criteria for metabolic syndrome. Serum AFABP4 levels (p < 0.0001), HOMA index ≥ 2.5 vs. < 2.5 (p < 0.0002) and BMI ≥ 30 vs. < 30 (p < 0.0006) were significantly higher in patients with metabolic syndrome. Within the metabolic syndrome subgroup, AFABP4 levels significantly correlated with age, aspartate aminotransaminase level, waist circumference, and HOMA index. High AFABP4 significantly increased the odds of acquiring metabolic syndrome (OR 1.04, 95% CI 1.007-1.074, p = 0.017). On multiple logistic regression analysis, independent predictors of high AFABP4 were cryptogenic liver disease, steroid administration, high HOMA index, and a high degree of fatty infiltration.Conclusion. Prevalence of metabolic syndrome is significantly higher in liver transplant recipients than in the general population. AFABP4 may serve as a circulating biomarker in the clinical prediction/diagnosis of metabolic syndrome in patients post-liver transplantation.

Seasonal influence on some blood and biochemical parameters of pigeons (Columba livia) in Rajasthan, India

This study was undertaken to investigate the effect of season on some haematological and biochemical parameters in pigeons (Columba livia) in Rajasthan, India. Blood samples of 80 pigeons were collected in four different seasons (20 from each season) for analysing haematological and biochemical parameters. In the haematological parameters, haemoglobin, packed cell volume and total erythrocyte count were significantly lower (p < 0.05) in summer compared with winter season. Whereas, no significant difference (p < 0.05) was observed in the values of total leucocyte count in different seasons. Albumin, total protein, serum alanine amino transaminase and aspartate amino transaminase were significantly increased (p < 0.05) in summer compared with winter season, whereas alkaline phosphatase values in summer were significantly low when compared to winter. In conclusion, heat stress during summer caused deterioration in some haematological and serum biochemical constituents of pigeons (C. livia). This study highlights the relevance of seasonal variations when monitoring the health and physiological state of pigeons

Hibiscus vitifolius (Linn.) root extracts shows potent protective action against anti-tubercular drug induced hepatotoxicity

Ethnopharmacological relevanceThe roots of Hibiscus vitifolius Linn. (Malvaceae) is used for the treatment of jaundice in the folklore system of medicine in India. This study is an attempt to evaluate the hepatoprotective activity of the roots of Hibiscus vitifolius against anti-tubercular drug induced hepatotoxicity. Materials and methodsHepatotoxicity was induced in albino rats of either sex by oral administration of a combination of three anti-tubercular drugs. Petroleum ether, chloroform, methanol and aqueous extracts of roots of Hibiscus vitifolius (400mg/kg/day) were evaluated for their possible hepatoprotective potential. ResultsAll the extracts were found to be safe up to a dose of 2000mg/kg. Among the four extracts studied, oral administration of methanol extract of Hibiscus vitifolius at 400mg/kg showed significant difference in all the parameters when compared to control. There was a significant (P<0.001) reduction in the levels of serum aspartate amino transaminase, alanine amino transferase, alkaline phosphatase, lactate dehydrogenase, total and direct bilirubin, where as an increase was found in the levels of total cholesterol, total protein and albumin. Liver homogenate studies showed a significant increase in the levels of total protein, phospholipids and glycogen, and a reduction in the levels of total lipids, triglycerides, and cholesterol against control animals. In the tissue anti-oxidant studies, we found a significant increase in the levels of catalase and superoxide dismutase, whereas there was marked reduction in the levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, as compared to control. Histology of liver sections of the animals treated with the extracts showed significant reduction of necrosis and fatty formation when compared with control specimens. ConclusionThese findings suggest that the root extracts of Hibiscus vitifolius have potent hepatoprotective activity, thereby justifying its ethnopharmacological claim.

Hepatoprotective activity of Feronia limonia root

The aim of this study was to evaluate the hepatoprotective potential of a methanolic extract and of marmesin isolated from the root bark of Feronia limonia. Activity levels of aspartate aminotransaminase (AST) and alanine aminotransaminase (ALT), cell viability and cell death were evaluated in HepG2 cells (human liver hepatoma cells) treated with CCl₄ in the presence or absence of F. limonia extract or marmesin. Plasma activity levels of AST, ALT, bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, protein, hepatic antioxidants, lipid peroxidation and histopathological evaluations were carried out in rats treated with CCl₄ alone or co-supplemented with F. limonia extract or marmesin in a dose-dependent manner. In-vitro co-supplementation of F. limonia methanolic extract or marmesin significantly minimized alteration in levels of AST and ALT and improved cell viability. Oral administration of F. limonia methanolic extract or marmesin significantly prevented CCl₄-induced elevation in the plasma markers of hepatic damage and hepatic lipid peroxidation and a decrease in hepatic antioxidants. In-vivo hepatoprotective potential of F. limonia methanolic extract and marmesin was evident from the minimal alterations in the histoarchitecture of liver. This has been the first scientific report on the hepatoprotective potential of F. limonia root bark methanolic extract and marmesin.

Effects of Ibuprofen on hematological, biochemical and enzymological parameters of blood in an Indian major carp, Cirrhinus mrigala

In the present investigation, the most commonly used pharmaceutical drug Ibuprofen (IB) was exposed to an Indian major carp Cirrhinus mrigala under static bioassay method to estimate its toxicological effects for a period of 35 days. The median lethal concentration (LC 50) of IB to the fish C. mrigala for 24h was found to be 142ppm. In sublethal treatment (1/10th of LC 50 24h value, 14.2ppm), a significant decrease in erythrocyte (RBC), mean cellular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) and plasma protein levels were observed throughout the study period when compare to that of their respective controls. In contrast, haemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit (Hct), mean cellular volume (MCV), mean cellular hemoglobin (MCH), leucocyte (WBC), plasma glucose and alanine transaminase (ALT) levels were increased in this study period. On the other hand, a mixed trend was noticed in aspartate aminotransaminase (AST) enzyme activity. Alterations of these parameters can be effectively used as potential biomarkers in monitoring of IB toxicity in the aquatic organisms. However, more detailed studies on these specific biomarkers are needed to assess the impacts of human pharmaceutical drugs in the field of pharmacotoxicology and aquatic toxicology.

The Protective Effects of Aqueous Extracts of Wild-Growing and Fermented Royal Sun Mushroom, Agaricus brasiliensis S. Wasser et al. (Higher Basidiomycetes), in CCl4-Induced Oxidative Damage in Rats

Culinary-medicinal Royal Sun mushroom, Agaricus brasiliensis (AbS), has traditionally been used for the prevention of a range of diseases, including cancer, hepatitis, atherosclerosis, hypercholesterolemia, diabetes, and dermatitis. The hepatoprotective effect of the fermented mushroom of A. brasiliensis (FMAE) and wild-growing A. brasiliensis (WMAE) were studied in this paper. An in vivo study of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced antioxidant activity in 2-month-old rats was conducted by examining the levels of activities of alanine aminotransaminase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransaminase (AST) and the antioxidant enzymes, including glutathione peroxidase (GSHPx) and catalase (CAT). Rats were divided into four groups, each containing six rats. The first group served as a control group. The second group was the CCl4 group. Group I and group II were treated orally with distilled water for 14 days respectively. Group III and Group IV were treated orally by WMAE and FMAE at oral doses of 50 mg/kg-day, respectively. Both WMAE and FMAE could reduce CCl4-induced toxicity, particularly hepatotoxicity, by suppressing ALT and AST activities, and increasing antioxidant enzyme activity. The studies demonstrate that both the fermented and wild-growing A. brasiliensis could protect the liver against CCl4-induced oxidative damage in rats.

Effects of Nanogold on the Alleviation of Carbon Tetrachloride-Induced Hepatic Injury in Rats

Gold particles have been used in complementary medicine for decades, and many beneficial effects have been reported. Our present study sought to evaluate the therapeutic effects of nanogold in carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄)-injured liver of rats. Male SD rats were subjected to liver injury induction by CCl₄, then the rats were fed with zero to high dose (0, 1, 5 or 10 ppm) of nanogold water every day for 4 weeks. Biochemical analyses on liver functions were then performed to evaluate the therapeutic effects of nanogold. Our results revealed that gold nanoparticles lowered serum aspartate aminotransaminase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase and exerted serum total protein-recovering effects, which might be partially associated with the elevation of anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 level. In addition, serum triglyceride level fell after continuous ingestion of nanogold. Finally, the experimental animals recovered body weight after 4 weeks of nanogold ingestion. This is the first report indicating inflammation alleviating effects of nanogold on hepatic injury.

Adenovirus-mediated viral interleukin-10 gene transfer prevents concanavalin A-induced liver injury

Background and aimLiver injury is closely associated with immune inflammation. Lacking immunostimulatory functions, viral interleukin-10 (vIL-10), a cellular IL-10 homologue, has been an attractive molecule for immunomodulatory therapy. We aimed to reveal a protective effect of the gene transfer of an adenoviral vector encoding vIL-10 on liver injury induced by concanavalin A. MethodsC57BL/6J mice were intravenously injected with adenoviral vector encoding vIL-10 before concanavalin A challenge. Liver injury was assessed. Interferon-γ and interleukin-4 levels were measured by ELISA. The activation of splenic and hepatic immune cells was analysed using an MTT assay. ResultsAdenoviral vector encoding vIL-10 pretreatment significantly decreased concanavalin A-mediated elevations in serum alanine aminotransaminase and aspartate aminotransaminase activity, and necrotic area in liver tissues. The protective effect of adenoviral vector encoding vIL-10 was attributed to its inhibition of T cell activation, and production of interferon-γ and interleukin-4 by the immune cells. Recombinant mouse IL-10, a high homologous cytokine to vIL-10, effectively downregulated interferon-γ and interleukin-4 release by hepatic mononuclear cells. ConclusionAdenovirus vector-mediated vIL-10 gene transfer can prevent concanavalin A-induced hepatic injury, minimise pro-inflammatory cytokine release, and inhibit the activation of T lymphocytes.

Brassica rapa L. extract alleviate early hepatic injury in alloxan-induced diabetic rats

Liver insufficiency is one of the most important consequences of diabetes mellitus. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the protective effect of turnip root ethanolic extract (TREE) on early hepatic injuries in alloxanized-diabetic rats. Eighty male Wistar rats were randomly assigned into 4 equal groups including: normal healthy, normal+TREE, diabetic and 4- diabetic+TREE. Diabetes was induced with a single injection of alloxan (120 mg/kg i.p.). TREE treatment groups received TREE (200 mg/kg) daily for 8 weeks by means of gavage. At the end of the experimental period, levels of functional liver markers [aspartate aminotransaminase (AST), alanine aminotransaminase (ALT) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)], TB, albumin and total protein (TP) were assessed in the serum. Product of lipid peroxidation (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and glutathione reductase (GR) activity was also assayed in liver homogenates. Finally, the biochemical findings were matched with histopathological verification. Statistically, the quantitative data obtained were compared among the groups by one-way analysis of variance followed by Turkey post-hoc test. Statistical significance was considered as p<0.05. In the diabetic rats, TREE significantly decreased the levels of serum biomarkers of hepatic injury. Furthermore, TREE significantly decreased the lipid peroxidation and elevated the decreased values of antioxidant enzymes in diabetic rats. Histopathologically, the changes were parallel to the biochemical findings. The results obtained showed that TREE alleviates early hepatic injuries in the rats with experimentally induced diabetes. Key words: Brassica rapa L., diabetes, hepatic injury, alloxan, rats.

Modulating effect of soy protein on serum cardiac enzymes in cholesterol-fed rats

The effects of soy protein on the activities of serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), alanine aminotransaminase (ALT), aspartate aminotransaminase (AST) and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (γ-GT) in rats fed cholesterol-diet were investigated. Rats were subjected to feeding over a period of six weeks on formulated diets containing: 20% soy protein with no cholesterol (group A); 20% soy protein with 5% cholesterol (group B); 20% soy protein with 10% cholesterol(group C): 0% soy protein with 20% cholesterol (group D); and 5% soy protein with 20% cholesterol (group E). The serum levels of these enzymes were determined weekly for the six weeks treatment period. LDH, ALT, AST and γ-GT activities were observed to be significantly elevated (p < 0.01) in groups D and E when compared with groups B and C although the enzymes activities in groups B and C were significantly higher (p < 0.05) when compared with the control. The activities of the enzymes were highest in group D. It is considered that consumption of soy protein-rich diets as opposed to those high in animal protein may help reduce oxidative damage to tissues (such as heart, liver, and kidney) and hence reduce cardiovascular disease risk due to the presence of soy isoflavones and its hypolipaemic attributes. Key words: Soy protein, cholesterol, serum enzymes.