Blood Of Animals Research Articles

Antibody-mediated depletion of select leukocyte subsets in blood and tissue of nonhuman primates.

Understanding the immunological control of pathogens requires a detailed evaluation of the mechanistic contributions of individual cell types within the immune system. While knockout mouse models that lack certain cell types have been used to help define the role of those cells, the biological and physiological characteristics of mice do not necessarily recapitulate that of a human. To overcome some of these differences, studies often look towards nonhuman primates (NHPs) due to their close phylogenetic relationship to humans. To evaluate the immunological role of select cell types, the NHP model provides distinct advantages since NHP more closely mirror the disease manifestations and immunological characteristics of humans. However, many of the experimental manipulations routinely used in mice (e.g., gene knock-out) cannot be used with the NHP model. As an alternative, the in vivo infusion of monoclonal antibodies that target surface proteins on specific cells to either functionally inhibit or deplete cells can be a useful tool. Such depleting antibodies have been used in NHP studies to address immunological mechanisms of action. In these studies, the extent of depletion has generally been reported for blood, but not thoroughly assessed in tissues. Here, we evaluated four depleting regimens that primarily target T cells in NHP: anti-CD4, anti-CD8α, anti-CD8β, and immunotoxin-conjugated anti-CD3. We evaluated these treatments in healthy unvaccinated and IV BCG-vaccinated NHP to measure the extent that vaccine-elicited T cells - which may be activated, increased in number, or resident in specific tissues - are depleted compared to resting populations in unvaccinated NHPs. We report quantitative measurements of in vivo depletion at multiple tissue sites providing insight into the range of cell types depleted by a given mAb. While we found substantial depletion of target cell types in blood and tissue of many animals, residual cells remained, often residing within tissue. Notably, we find that animal-to-animal variation is substantial and consequently studies that use these reagents should be powered accordingly.

Inflammation Factors and Genistein Supplementation in Cancer-Preliminary Research.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of genistein in nano, micro, and macro forms on the intensity of the DMBA-induced tumor process in rats and to understand the mechanisms of this action. The effect of genistein supplementation on the content of selected eicosanoids (HETEs, HODE, and HEPE) in the serum of rats was evaluated. The levels and expression of genes encoding various pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1, IL-6) and MMP-9 in the blood of rats were also investigated. The biological material for the study was blood obtained from female rats of the Sprague Dawley strain (n = 32). The animals were randomly divided into four groups: animals without supplementation, and animals supplemented at a dose of 0.2 mg/kg b.w. (0.1 mg/mL) with macro, micro (587 ± 83 nm), or nano (92 ± 41 nm) genistein. To induce mammary neoplasia (adenocarcinoma), rats were given 7,12-dimethyl-1,2-benz[a]anthracene (DMBA). The content of selected eicosanoids was determined by liquid chromatography with UV detection. An immunoenzymatic method was used to determine the content of cytokines and MMP-9. The expression of the IL-6, IL-1beta, and MMP-9 genes was determined with quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) using TaqMan probes. Based on the study, it was shown that supplementation of animals with genistein in macro, micro, and nano forms increased the intensity of the tumor process in rats. It was shown that the content of 12-HEPE, HODE, and 12-HETE in the serum of genistein-supplemented rats was statistically significantly lower with respect to the content of the aforementioned markers in the serum of rats receiving only a standard diet, devoid of supplementation. It was found that animals supplemented with nano-, micro-, and macrogenistein had higher levels of metalloproteinase-9, MMP-9, compared to animals without supplementation. There was a significant increase in MMP-9 gene expression in the blood of macrogenistein-supplemented animals, relative to the other groups of rats. On the basis of the study, it was shown that supplementation of animals with nano-, micro-, and macrogenistein had an effect on the development of the tumor process. Dietary supplementation with genistein significantly decreased the level of selected eicosanoids, which may have significant impacts on cancer development and progression.

84 Efficacy of Livamol with BioWorma for controlling gastrointestinal nematode in nursing Kiko does raised in pastures

Abstract Prevalence of gastrointestinal nematodes (GINs) has become a critical issue because of nematode resistance to anthelmintics available in the market. Livamol with BioWorma (hereafter BioWorma), a biological product containing spores of Duddingtonia flagrans, is known to trap GIN larvae and reduce the chance of re-infection in artificially-infested animals. However, the efficacy of this product is not known in pasture-raised nursing does acquiring natural challenges of GIN through contaminated pastures. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of BioWorma for controlling GIN in pasture-raised nursing does. The study was conducted for 120 d (March-August 2023). Sixteen nursing Kiko Does and kids (n = 30) were divided into two uniform groups. Each group of animals was assigned to separate sets of grazing plots and rotationally stocked in those plots throughout the study. Animals had free access to clean drinking water, shelters, and mineral mix in each plot. BioWorma at the rate of 1g/d/kg of animal body weight (BW) was fed to one group of animals. BioWorma was mixed with 0.227 kg of whole corn before feeding. Another group (control) was provided with an equivalent amount of corn without BioWorma. Additionally, both groups were supplemented with whole corn at the rate of 0.5% BW. Animal performance data [BW, body condition score (BCS), and FAMACHA score] and fecal samples were taken on d 1, every week during the study, and the last day of the study. Fecal samples were analyzed to determine the egg per gram (EPG). Blood samples were taken on the first day of the study, then every month during the study, and on the last day of the study. Blood samples were analyzed in ProCyte Dx Analyzer for hematological parameters (RBC, hematocrit, hemoglobin, WBC, neutrophil, eosinophil, monocytes, basophil, and platelets) and in Catalyst Dx for biochemical parameters (glucose, creatine, blood urea nitrogen, Ca, P, Na, Cl, and other parameters). Animal performance and blood profile data were analyzed using the GLM procedure and EPG data using the Wilcoxon Rank-Sum test in SAS 9.4. Overall, the treatment group had less EPG (35%; P < 0.05) than the control group. However, the consistent trend of BioWorma reducing EPG was not found when data were analyzed for each observation date. BioWorma had no significant impact on BW, FAMACHA score, BCS, and blood parameters. Results showed that BioWorma was able to reduce the overall GIN EPG in nursing Kiko does raised in pastures. Long-term research on the efficacy of BioWorma in controlling GIN in goats will reveal more useful information.

Seroprevalence and risk factor analysis of brucellosis among dairy farmers in Aligarh region, North India: creating awareness of a neglected disease.

Introduction. Brucellosis, a globally distributed zoonotic disease, is caused by the Gram-negative bacteria known as Brucella. Humans acquire infection through direct contact with the blood, urine and placenta of animals, inhalation of dust or aerosols at infected animal farms, and raw milk and meat intake. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of brucellosis in dairy farmers in and around the Aligarh region of North India, to document various clinical signs and symptoms in Brucella-positive individuals, and to create awareness in dairy farmers concerning brucellosis and ways to prevent it. Methods. This was an observational study that included 125 dairy farmers in and around the Aligarh region. Serum samples were taken from this high-risk group after obtaining informed consent. Further, a pre-designed proforma was used to collect information about their knowledge, attitude and practices (KAP) concerning brucellosis and assess the risk factors for the disease. The Rose Bengal test (RBT), serum agglutination test (SAT) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were performed to detect the seroprevalence of brucellosis. Result.Brucella infection was diagnosed in 64 (51.20 %) cases by indirect ELISA (IgM+IgG), 41 (32.8 %) by RBT and 4 (3.2 %) by SAT. Significant clustering of patients was seen in the 20-55 years age group. The most common symptoms in ELISA IgM-positive patients were joint pain (16.07 %), fatigue (14.28 %), anorexia (12.50 %), weight loss (8.92 %), malaise (5.35 %), undulant fever (3.57 %), night sweats (3.57 %) and headache (1.78 %). The findings of this study indicate that ELISA (IgM+IgG) exhibits great sensitivity as compared to SAT and RBT. KAP was very poor among dairy farmers. Conclusion. In India, Brucella is a frequent but severely underreported illness. ELISA is the most sensitive serological test for diagnosing brucellosis. No potential vaccine has yet been introduced for humans against brucellosis. Thus, it is necessary to impart awareness and sensitize high-risk groups concerning brucellosis.

Effect of expanding farmlands with domestication of animals in the vicinity of disturbed swamps and built-up farmland ponds on population dispersion and decline of locally adapted Mansonia vectors (Diptera: Culicidae).

The adaptive processes and resilience of Mansonia vectors responsible for bioindicators can change in response to climate, land use, and environmental changes. This study evaluated the effects of expanding farmlands with the domestication of animals in the vicinity of either disturbed swamps or built-up farmland ponds on the population dispersion and decline of locally adapted Mansonia faunas as a result of expanding farmlands in Thailand. Based on environmental surveys, four different geographically defined study sites were selected: I - the expanding farmlands with domestication of livestock and pet animals in the vicinity of low-lying swamp with habitat fragmentation and aquatic vegetation; II - the expanding farmlands with domestication of pet animals in the vicinity of elevated swamp with habitat destruction and aquatic vegetation; III - the expanding farmlands with domestication of livestock and pet animals in the vicinity of low-lying farmland ponds with restoration and aquatic vegetation; and IV - the expanding farmlands with domestication of pet animals in the vicinity of elevated farmland ponds with restoration and aquatic vegetation. Human landing catch collection method was used to periodically assess the species composition and abundance of Mansonia vectors. Aggregated distributions and seasonal abundances of Mansonia faunas (Mansonia uniformis, Mansonia indiana, Mansonia annulifera, Mansonia annulata, Mansonia bonneae, and Mansonia dives) with variable proportions were observed at all the study sites. A decline in the population of Mansonia faunas, except for Ma. uniformis, was observed at study sites I and II. The anticipated effects of expanding farmlands affected the population dispersion and decline of locally adapted Mansonia faunas, thus representing a diverse assemblage of Mansonia species with different adaptations, ecological tolerances, and host exploitation strategies in life. These effects depended either on the function of disturbed swamps or on the development of farmland ponds, whether they provided a wide range of freshwater habitats, or on the domestication of animals, whether they provided animal blood meal sources.

Significant milestones in the history of world and domestic transfusiology

The formation of transfusiology in our country, in particular the foundation by Alexander A. Malinovsky (Bogdanov) the world first special Institute of blood transfusion, could not have happened without a “strong foundation” accumulated over centuries of trial and error. The article chronologically reconstructs the pathway of the development of the use of blood for medicinal purposes, starting from ancient times and the Middle Ages, when there were mentions of the use of drinks from human blood, until October 1, 1926 (the beginning of the real clinical and research work of the Institute of Blood Transfusion), which directly became the “foundation” for the emergence and development of transfusion blood in Russia already in modern times. The most “saturated” period in the development of transfusiology is considered — the New Time, at the beginning of which the prejudices of past eras about the benefits of drinking drinks from human blood were still preserved. W. Harvey discovered blood circulation, published an Anatomical study of the movement of the heart and blood in animals, which refuted the then dominant teaching of Galen. The English theologian Potter, who was present at the experience of W. Harvey, expressed the idea of blood transfusion. There have been critical statements questioning the benefits of blood transfusion. D. Blundell together with G. Klein began to study the effect of transfusion from person to person, which allowed D. Blundell to be considered the founder of modern transfusiology. The period of the late XIX–early XX centuries is analyzed, including the discovery of K. Landsteiner and the experiences of our compatriots — 
 V.A. Yurevich, N.K. Rosenberg, V.N. Shamov and others. After the discovering blood circulation by W. Harvey, there is a gradual transition first to experiments on blood transfusion from one animal to another, then from animal to human and from human to human, and further use of blood for medicinal purposes, naturally, with “varying success”.

Prevention of ketosis in cows: the role and effectiveness of Кеххtone

Ketosis is a common metabolic disease in dairy cattle that is often diagnosed in the late stages of pregnancy or early stages of lactation, especially in high-yield cows. To counteract this disease, we used the drug Kexxtone, which protects for 95 days, starting from 3–4 weeks before the planned calving. The study showed that the administration of this drug led to a significant decrease in the level of ketone bodies in the blood of cows on the third and ninth day after calving. Notably, on the third day after calving, the content of ketone bodies in the blood of animals treated with the drug during the second lactation was significantly lower than in the control group of cows by 1.38 times (Р < 0.05), on the ninth day of research, this indicator in cows of this group significantly decreased by 2.48 times and amounted to 0.81 ± 0.05 mmol/L (Р < 0.01), and in the control group – 2.01 ± 0.31 mmol/L. It was also found that the insemination index was almost the same in cows during the second lactation. Still, a significant decrease in this indicator was noted in the third and fourth lactation of cows when using the drug Kexxtone. Thus, during the third lactation in experimental cows, this index was 1.6 ± 0.18 (Р < 0.01), and in the control group – 2.13 ± 0.35. In cows of the experimental groups, a higher average daily milk yield was observed compared to animals that were not given the drug. In some cows during the fourth lactation, which was not treated with Kexxtone, high levels of ketone bodies were detected in the blood, which may indicate the need for health monitoring and additional measures to prevent ketosis. In addition, a high average daily milk yield was found in cows from the experimental groups, possibly due to the drug Kexxtone's positive effect on the animal body's physiological processes and increased productivity of dairy cattle. These results indicate the potential benefits of using Kexxtone to ensure the health and productivity of cows at different stages of their life. These results allow us to recommend the use of the drug to prevent the occurrence of ketosis and increase cow yield. Additional research may be helpful for a deeper understanding of the mechanisms of the drug's action and its effect on the body and productivity of cows.

Изменение ИК-спектров метаболитов энергетического обмена в крови крыс с гепатоцеллюлярной карциномой при воздействии гипертермии и апитоксина

There is a need to develop and improve conservative treatment methods for malignant liver tumours, since only in a small percentage of cases (10–30 %) radical treatments can be applied. Therefore, of relevance are studies into the effect of hyperthermia on the absorption of antitumour drugs and the effect of bee venom as a physiological therapeutic agent on the energy metabolism of tumour cells. Infrared spectroscopy could potentially be used to study changes in energy metabolism parameters in the blood plasma. The purpose of this article is to assess changes in the concentrations of energy metabolism metabolites in the blood of tumour-bearing animals during hyperthermia under the action of apitoxin using infrared spectroscopy. Materials and methods. The research involved 50 white non-linear female rats, divided into an intact, control and three experimental groups. The control and experimental groups were inoculated with hepatocellular carcinoma. The experimental groups were injected intraperitoneally with honey bee venom followed by hyperthermia sessions at different temperatures (42.5; 43.5 and 44.5 °С). Blood plasma was studied using a spectrophotometer in the wavenumber range of 1170–1025 cm–1. Results. We found a statistically significant increase in adenosine triphosphate concentrations (by 54 %) and a decrease in adenosine monophosphate (by 54 %), adenosine diphosphate (by 18 %) and glucose (by 87 %) levels compared to the control at 42.5 °C hyperthermia under the action of bee venom by the 7th day; however, on the 28th day the opposite effect was observed: an increase in adenosine monophosphate, adenosine diphosphate and glucose concentrations and a decrease in adenosine triphosphate levels. No positive dynamic was detected at other hyperthermia regimens. It is concluded that infrared spectroscopy can be used to assess energy changes in animals with hepatocellular carcinoma at different hyperthermia regimens under the therapeutic effect of bee venom. The optimal conditions for bee venom effects on the body are achieved at 42.5 °C.

Tectona grandis Linn. : ANTIDIABETIC ACTIVITY OF THE FRACTIONS USING AN IN VIVO APPROACH

The exploration of Tectona grandis Linn. from Indonesia, especially its use as an anti-diabetes agent is still quite limited. This study aims to determine the antidiabetic activity of the fractions from Tectona grandis Linn. leaves in male Rattus norvegicus. The animal blood glucose level was measured first as T0, then the animals were injected with streptozotocin (STZ) 40 mg/Kg BW to induce diabetes mellitus (DM), and then the blood was collected to determine the blood glucose level (T1). The animal was divided into six groups, namely normal group (NC) without treatment, positive control (K+) (DM+glibenclamide 5 mg), negative control (K-) (DM+NaCMC 0.5%), fractions group (DM+nHexane fraction (P1), DM+chloroform fraction (P2), and DM+ethyl acetate fraction (P3), each dose 300 mg/kg BW). The duration of treatment was 7 days, and at the end of treatment, the blood glucose levels were determined. The T0, T1, and T2 are analyzed using One-Way ANOVA and post-hoc LSD. The results obtained that the K+, P3, P2, and P1 groups were able to reduce the animals' blood glucose levels significantly (p<0.05), with the blood glucose levels are 97.01; 110.96; 129.38; and 111.46 mg/dL, respectively. The percentage of reduction in blood glucose level shows that the K+ group has the highest percentage at 66.8%, followed by the P3 group at 64.0%. The n-hexane, chloroform, and ethyl acetate fractions showed similar effectiveness to glibenclamide in reducing blood glucose levels statistically (p>0.05). Consequently, Tectona grandis Linn ...

A254 CANAGLIFLOZIN EXACERBATES CHEMICALLY INDUCED COLITIS WHEN COMBINED WITH A HIGH SUGAR DIET

Abstract Background Consumption of high-sugar diets exacerbates inflammation and hinders the healing process in animal models of acute colitis. Canagliflozin (CANA) is a sodium glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitor primarily used for the management of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. CANA has demonstrated the ability to suppress human T cell and macrophage effector function and to improve inflammation in rat colitis models. Based on these findings, we hypothesized that CANA would mitigate the deleterious effects of a high sugar diet in a DSS colitis model through its effects on immune effector cells. Aims The aim of this study was to examine the effects of a high sugar diet and CANA administration on colonic inflammation in an animal model of acute colitis. Methods Adult wild-type male and female 129/SvEv mice were placed on standard chow or a high-sugar diet (HSD) containing 50% sucrose (AIN76A) ± CANA (10mg/kg) gavaged daily (n=4-6 for each group). Following three days on the respective diet, mice received 1.8-2% dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) in their drinking water for 5 days, followed by water alone for 4 days. Disease Activity Index (DAI) was computed daily based on changes in animal weight, stool consistency, and blood in stool. Colonic tissues were evaluated for histological changes, weight-to-length ratio, and cytokine levels using the MesoScale discovery platform. Results Mice on the HSD had increased severity of colitis compared with chow fed mice as evidenced by enhanced DAI, increased weight loss, and increased levels of colonic TNFα (pampersand:003C0.02). Response to CANA treatment was both sex and diet dependent. Contrary to our hypothesis, CANA treatment increased severity of colitis in male mice on the HSD as evidenced by increased DAI and delayed healing with increased enterocyte injury and increased levels of lamina propria neutrophils and lymphocytes. CANA treatment did not exacerbate disease severity in females on the HSD but did delay healing as evidenced by increased lamina propria neutrophils and lymphocytes and worse enterocyte injury. These effects were not observed in mice that were fed standard chow diets with CANA. Conclusions A high-sugar diet significantly exacerbates chemically induced colitis and delays healing. This effect is intensified when combined with CANA, especially in male mice. These findings indicate that effects of SGLT2 inhibitors on colonic inflammation can be modulated by both dietary intake and sex. Funding Agencies CCC

Animal Species and Blood Identification with Peptide Mass Fingerprinting.

As more families are acquiring pets and the opportunities for wild animals to appear in human neighborhoods are increasing, the number of cases and accidents involving animals is increasing. Hence, the need to identify animal species from blood left over at accident sites is increasing. Human hemoglobin is used as a marker for human blood. Although tandem mass spectrometry is the dominant methodology used in proteomics research, peptide mass fingerprinting, given its instant applicability, may be useful for screening animal species, as the amino acid sequences of hemoglobin from various animals differ. In this study, solutions that were easily purified─using hemoglobin reagents from humans, Japanese macaques, bears, cattle, goats, sheep, sika deer, pigs, wild boars, dogs, cats, and nutrias─were digested by trypsin, and subjected to database searched using Mascot. No candidate proteins were found in the blood of goats, sheep, sika deer, wild boars, pigs, or nutrias. However, bloodstains from all animal species except nutria (which is not registered in the database) yielded candidates, which were identified as the hemoglobin of origin or its relatives. This difference may be attributed to more contaminants being included in blood. Further narrowing was possible using the average mass obtained via infusion electrospray ionization mass spectrometry measurement of the undigested solution in Mascot results. Saliva, urine, semen, and sweat collected from humans were also examined and searched for mascots, but no hits were obtained. In conclusion, this method may be useful for estimating animal species and identifying blood in forensic science.

Circulation of foot-and-mouth disease serotypes, risk factors, and their effect on hematological and biochemical profiles among cattle and buffalo in Quetta, Balochistan, Pakistan.

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is an infectious disease of cloven-hoofed animals, including buffalo, cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs, causing major economic losses to the local farmers and, overall, to the national economy of the country. This study aimed to detect FMDV serotypes in year-round FMD outbreaks, hematological and biochemical changes, and oxidative stress in FMDV-infected cattle and buffaloes in the district of Quetta, Balochistan, Pakistan, and the socioeconomic impact of FMD outbreaks on farmers. We conducted a cross-sectional study in the district of Quetta, Balochistan, Pakistan, where FMD virus (FMDV) serotypes were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Hematological, biochemical, and oxidative analyses were performed by analyzing the blood of FMDV-infected and non-infected animals. Information on the associated risk factors was obtained through a structured questionnaire by interviewing farmers in each FMD-affected farm. Thirty-four out of 38 farms (89%, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 75%-97%) were positive for FMD by ELISA. Higher FMD infection was detected in farms with a herd size of <50 animals (50%, 17/34), followed by >100 animals (32%, 11/34) and 51-100 animals (18%, 6/34). Fifty-seven percent (114/200, 95% CI: 50%-64%) of animals were positive for FMD. Of these, 61% (69/114) were cattle and 39% (45/114) were buffalo. FMD positivity was higher in females (86%, 98/114) than in males (14%, 16/114) and higher in animals older than 2 years of age (52%, 59/114). On average, farmers lose U.S. dollars 3000 annually due to FMD outbreaks. Animals infected with FMDV had significantly (p ≤ 0.05) white blood cell counts and significantly (p ≤ 0.05) lower hemoglobin and total protein concentrations in buffalo and cattle, whereas infected cattle showed significantly (p ≤ 0.05) lower albumin levels. Globulin levels were lower in buffaloes infected. Alanine aminotransferase levels were lower in infected cattle (p ≤ 0.05). Creatinine levels were higher in infected buffalo (p ≤ 0.05). Urea and phosphorus concentrations were higher in FMDV-infected cattle and buffalo (p ≤ 0.05). Calcium levels were lower in infected cattle and buffalo (p ≤ 0.05). Catalase enzyme activity in infected cattle and buffaloes was significantly lower (p < 0.05). Lipid peroxidation was significantly higher in FMDV-infected cattle and buffalo (p ≤ 0.05). This study confirmed serotype O circulation among cattle and buffalo in year-long FMD outbreaks in the Quetta District of Balochistan. Blood analysis identified a parameter deviated from the normal level due to FMDV infection. In addition, the outbreak of FMD has a significant negative economic impact on livestock farmers.

Age-Related Features of the Response of Cancer Stem Cells and T Cells in Experimental Lung Cancer.

The responses of tumor stem cells and various populations of CD4 and CD8 T cells of young and aged C57BL/6 mice were studied in a lung cancer model. Using Lewis lung carcinoma cell line, an orthotopic model of lung cancer was modeled. Cancer stem cells, circulating tumor cells, and various populations of CD4 and CD8 T cells in the blood and lung tissue were studied by cytometry. We revealed age-related differences in the content of various populations of CD4 and CD8 T cells in the blood and lungs of intact young and aged mice. Age-related features of the reaction of various populations of cancer stem cells and CD4 and CD8 T cells in the blood and lungs of animals in the Lewis lung carcinoma were shown.

Studies of biochemical parameters of the blood of laboratory animals when studying the subchronic toxicity of the drug L-carnitine

Studies of biochemical parameters of the blood of laboratory animals when studying the subchronic toxicity of the drug L-carnitine

GP60 and SPARC as albumin receptors: key targeted sites for the delivery of antitumor drugs.

Albumin is derived from human or animal blood, and its ability to bind to a large number of endogenous or exogenous biomolecules makes it an ideal drug carrier. As a result, albumin-based drug delivery systems are increasingly being studied. With these in mind, detailed studies of the transport mechanism of albumin-based drug carriers are particularly important. As albumin receptors, glycoprotein 60 (GP60) and secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC) play a crucial role in the delivery of albumin-based drug carriers. GP60 is expressed on vascular endothelial cells and enables albumin to cross the vascular endothelial cell layer, and SPARC is overexpressed in many types of tumor cells, while it is minimally expressed in normal tissue cells. Thus, this review supplements existing articles by detailing the research history and specific biological functions of GP60 or SPARC and research advances in the delivery of antitumor drugs using albumin as a carrier. Meanwhile, the deficiencies and future perspectives in the study of the interaction of albumin with GP60 and SPARC are also pointed out.

Inefficient Transmission of African Swine Fever Virus to Sentinel Pigs from an Environment Contaminated by ASFV-Infected Pigs under Experimental Conditions

Knowledge about African swine fever virus (ASFV) transmission and its survival in the environment is mandatory to develop rational control strategies and combat this serious disease in pigs. In this study, the risk that environmental contamination poses for infection of naïve pigs was investigated. Naïve pigs were introduced as sentinels into contaminated pens kept at ambient temperature (about 18–22˚C) either on the same day or up to 3 days after ASFV-infected pigs were removed. Three experiments were carried out in which four to six pigs per pen were inoculated with virulent ASFV isolates OURT88/1 (genotype I), Georgia 2007/1, or POL/2015/Podlaskie (genotype II), respectively. The majority of the inoculated pigs developed acute disease but with no evident haemorrhagic lesions or haemorrhagic diarrhoea and were culled at the predefined humane endpoint. The levels of ASFV DNA detected in the blood of the infected animals reached 107−9 genome copies/ml before euthanasia. Environmental swabs were taken from different surfaces in the animal rooms, as well as from faeces and urine, close to the time of introduction of the naïve animals. Relatively low quantities of virus DNA were detected in the environmental samples, in the range of 103−7 genome copies per swab or per gram and ml of faeces and urine. No infectious virus was recovered from these environmental samples. Neither clinical signs nor virus genomes were detected in the blood of any of the sentinel pigs over a period of 2 to 3 weeks after exposure, indicating that transmission from the ASFV-contaminated environment did not occur. Interestingly, viral DNA was detected in nasal and oral swabs from some of the sentinel animals at early days of exposure (ranging between 103.7−5.8 genome copies per swab), though none of them developed ASF. The results indicate a relatively low risk of ASFV transmission from a contaminated environment under the conditions provided in these experimental studies and in the absence of bloodshed from infected animals.

Model of Hypogonadism by Method of Testicular Ischemization and its Morphological Substantiation

This study is devoted to the morphological substantiation of the model of male hypogonadism and establishing the effectiveness of its replacement therapy using morphological methods. Material and methods. 5 groups of adult male Wistar rats (4 individuals each) were studied. Four groups of rats were experimental. Under anesthesia, the left and right spermatic cords with the vascular bundle were tied with a temporary ligature, inducing hypogonadism. In the first two experimental groups of rats, the ligature was applied for 30 and 60 minutes (respectively). Animals in the other two experimental groups received replacement therapy by administering kisspeptin K6. Animals of the third experimental group began to receive kisspeptin a few minutes after restoration of blood flow in the testicle (ex tempore), and rats of the fourth group - after 3 days. The duration of replacement therapy is 7 days. In histological sections of the right and left testicle (n = 8), the number of viable and dying interstitial endocrine cells was counted (under the control of an immunohistochemical reaction with caspase 3), the percentage of these types of cells from their total number was calculated, and the area of viable endocrinocytes was determined. Testosterone levels were determined in the blood of animals of all groups. The significance of differences in the median, upper and lower quartiles of the compared parameters was determined using the nonparametric Mann–Whitney test. Results. It has been established that the modeling of male hypogonadism by applying a double-sided ligature to the vessels of the spermatic cord for 60 minutes and the animals experiencing it for the next 10 days induces pronounced reactive changes and the death of some interstitial cells, inhibition and cessation of spermatogenesis. Kisspeptin KS6, administered ex tempore and regularly after acute ischemia, has a protective effect on interstitial endocrinocytes and testicular spermatogenic cells, including anti-apoptotic, restoring spermatogenesis, probably realized through the activation of the central links of the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis.

The content of leukocytes in the blood of recipient rabbits after allogeneic transfusion of packed red blood cells

Researching how the immune system reacts to stimuli such as blood transfusion of alloantigens on models of different species of laboratory animals, in particular rabbits, is important for understanding the mechanisms through which post-transfusion reactions develop. In this study, we identified the absolute and relative contents of white blood cells in blood of the recipient rabbits, and also their subpopulations after allogenic transfusion of packed red blood cells (pRBCs). Allogeneic transfusion of pRBCs without leukoreduction was conducted once, in the calculation of 5.5 mL/kg of body mass of the experimental animals. The material for the studies were samples of blood serum, collected from 5 rabbits on the 3rd, 7th, and 23rd days after pRBC administration. Allogeneic transfusion of pRBCs to the recipient rabbits caused development of leukocytosis in their blood: compared with the initial condition, the absolute content of leukocytes in the blood of the experimental animals increased 27.0% on the 3rd day after transfusion, equaling 8.94 109/L; 40.1% on the 7th day, accounting for 9.86 109/L; and 34.1% on the 23rd day, measuring 9.44 109/L. Leukocytosis resulted from increased content of granulocytes in the blood compared with the initial state: the absolute content of granulocytes surged 66.9% on the 3rd day after transfusion, measuring 4.54 109/L, 2.21-fold on the 7th day, equaling 6.02 109/L, and 1.87-fold on the 23rd day, equaling 5.08 109/L. Allogeneic transfusion of pRBCs to the recipient rabbits caused decrease in the relative content of Т-lymphocytes and increase in the content of В-lymphocytes in their blood. Compared with the initial condition, the relative content of Т-lymphocytes in the blood of the experimental animals declined 20.6% on the 3rd day of the study, accounting for 58.0%; 30.1% on the 7th day, equaling 51.0%; and 25.8% on the 23rd day, equaling 54.2%. Compared with the initial state, the relative content of В-lymphocytes spiked 94.7% on the 3rd day of the study, measuring 22.2%, 2.23-fold on the 7th day, accounting for 25.4%, and 2.51-fold on the 23rd day, equaling 28.6%.

Protein hydrolysate as a source of bioactive peptides in diabetic food products

Protein hydrolysates are a promising active component in specialized food products. Due to the presence of bioactive peptides with enzyme inhibiting activity in their composition, protein hydrolysates exert different physiological effects. The aim of the research was to establish the potential hypoglycemic activity of the protein hydrolysate of broiler chicken stomachs in whey and to develop a beverage on its basis for patients with diabetes mellitus. Protein hydrolysates obtained from microbial fermentation of muscular stomachs of broiler chickens in whey were assessed by UHPLC coupled to mass-spectrometry. Using the BioPEp database, the molecular weight distribution of peptides in the hydrolysates was determined. In addition, bioactive peptides showing the inhibitory activity toward enzymes dipeptidyl peptidase‑4 and amylase were revealed. Based on the obtained hydrolysates, recipes of beverages for patients with diabetes mellitus were modeled in the Excel software program with regard to the recommendations for nutrition of this population group. According to the obtained recipes, beverages were produced in the laboratory conditions and their taste was assessed. An effect of the beverage on glucose reduction in the blood of laboratory animals was assessed upon single peroral administration with a dose of 1.3 ml before the main meal. The results of the investigation of the peptide composition of protein hydrolysates showed the presence of bioactive peptides (SY, VW, SW) in them with the inhibitory activity toward enzymes dipeptidyl peptidase‑4 and amylase confirmed by the BioPep database. The highest amount of the above indicated bioactive peptides (37.1 mg/100 g hydrolysate) was in the protein hydrolysate produced by fermentation of raw materials with propionic acid bacteria. The beverage produced on the basis of the protein hydrolysate and lemon juice was more acceptable for consumers in terms of taste than the beverage with the taste of cacao. The results of the in vivo trials showed that the beverage based on the protein hydrolysate was effective in reducing sugar in blood of both healthy rats and rats with diabetes mellitus. The blood sugar level in the healthy animals of the G1 group (without using the beverage) increased by 151% relative to the initial values, which was a higher value compared to the G2 group (with the use of the beverage), where an increase was 87%. A more significant growth in the blood sugar level (61% relative to the initial values) was also observed in the ill animals in the G3 group (without using the beverage), while this increase was 46% in the G4 group (with the use of the beverage). Thus, the results of the study show the prospects of using the protein hydrolysates from broiler chicken stomachs in whey as an active hypoglycemic component in beverages for patients with diabetes mellitus. However, more profound research is necessary including studies on the representative group of patients.

Can plastic pollution drive the emergence and dissemination of novel zoonotic diseases?

As the volume of plastic in the environment increases, so too does human interactions with plastic pollution. Similarly, domestic, feral, and wild animals are increasingly interacting with plastic pollution, highlighting the potential for contamination of plastic wastes with animal faeces, urine, saliva, and blood. Substantial evidence indicates that once in the environment, plastics rapidly become colonised by microbial biofilm (the so-called ‘plastisphere), which often includes potentially harmful microbial pathogens (including pathogens that are zoonotic in nature). Climate change, increased urbanisation, and the intensification of agriculture, mean that the three-way interactions between humans, animals, and plastic pollution are becoming more frequent, which is significant as almost 60% of emerging human infectious diseases during the last century have been zoonotic. Here, we critically review the potential for contaminated environmental plastics to facilitate the evolution of novel pathogenic strains of microorganisms, and the subsequent role of plastic pollution in the cyclical dissemination of zoonotic pathogens. As the interactions between humans, animals, and plastic pollution continues to grow, and the volume of plastics entering the environment increases, there is clearly an urgent need to better understand the role of plastic waste in facilitating zoonotic pathogen evolution and dissemination, and the effect this can have on environmental and human health.