Body Weight Of Rats Research Articles

Effect of Ethanol Leaf Extract of Lantana camara on Fasting Blood Glucose, Body Weight and Kidney Function Indices of Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Albino Wistar Rats

The study was aimed at investigating the effect of ethanol leaf extract of Lantana camara on the fasting blood glucose, body weight and kidney function indices of alloxan-induced diabetic albino Wistar rats. Thirty male albino Wistar rats of weight 100-181 g were randomly assigned six groups of five rats each. Group 1 served as normal control. Group 2-6 animals were induced with 150 mg/kg body weight (B.W) of alloxan monohydrate intraperitoneally. Fasting blood glucose was checked 72hrs after induction and animals with blood glucose 200mg/dl and above were considered diabetic. Group 3 was treated with 50 mg/kg B.W of glibenclamide. Group 4,5 and 6 were orally treated with 600, 800 and 1000 mg/kg B.W of Lantana camara extract respectively for 21days. Blood sample was obtained by tail puncture to check glucose levels weekly with the use of glucometer. Animals treated with 600, 800 and 1000 mg/kg B.W of the extract showed significant decrease (P<0.05) in blood glucose, creatinine, urea and uric acid compared to untreated diabetic animals. Body weight of treated groups increased significantly (P<0.05) compared to the untreated group. The results obtained were synonymous to the glibenclamide treated group. This suggests that the extract possess antidiabetic potential and could be used in the management of diabetes.

Reductions of food intake and body weight in diet-induced obese rats following chronic treatment with a monomeric peptide multiagonist

While therapies based on endogenous gut peptides such as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) have been compelling therapeutic agents for obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2D), only a few have achieved long-term weight loss and all have shown significant side-effects, including nausea/malaise and gastrointestinal ailments. As the pathophysiology of obesity is driven by dysregulation of multiple, inter-related, pathways, we tested a novel peptide targeting multiple receptors of complementary neurocircuits regulating the controls of energy balance. Response to daily injections of GEP44, a GLP-1R and neuropeptide Y1R and Y2R receptor (Y1R/Y2R) triple agonist was tested vs. the GLP-1R agonist liraglutide (LIRA) in diet-induced obese (DIO) male and female rats. Glucose tolerance tests after intraperitoneal injection of glucose (IPGTT) were performed at baseline and after 14-d of treatment in GEP44 treated rats. Other metabolic parameters were assessed in blood at the end of a 28-d intervention. Upon conclusion at 28-d, body weight reduction compared to vehicle was-15.6%/-11.9% in response to GEP44, vs.-9.7%/-5.1% after LIRA, males, and females, respectively. Significant reductions of cumulative food intake occurred over 28-d in female rats treated with GEP44 (-30%; p<0.0001), vs. LIRA (-10%), and in male rats GEP44 (-39%; p<0.0001), vs. LIRA (-20%; p=0.003). In IPGTTs, a similar stimulation glucose induced insulin secretion was noted in rats treated with GEP44 and LIRA. The strong reductions of body weight in response to long-term applications of the triple agonist GEP44 confirms the therapeutic potential of targeting multiple receptors for achieving more robust and potentially more sustained improvement of energy balance.

FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF Β-SITOSTEROL LOADED NIOSOMES FOR ENHANCED ANTIDIABETIC ACTIVITY: A POTENTIAL ALTERNATIVE IN TYPE 2 DIABETES MANAGEMENT

Niosomes, vesicles formed by non-ionic surfactants, offer advantages in drug delivery by enhancing solubilization and encapsulating both lipophilic and hydrophilic drugs. This study focuses on β-sitosterol-loaded niosomes designed to protect its anti-diabetic properties. Formulated with Span™ 60, Span™ 80 and cholesterol, the niosomes showed high entrapment efficiency (90%) and favorable release kinetics. Stability studies confirmed their robustness in various conditions. In vivo experiments demonstrated significant improvements in body weight and blood glucose levels in diabetic rats. The optimized formulation (NF8) exhibited controlled release and substantial antidiabetic activity, suggesting its potential as an effective treatment for type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Antibiotic-Induced Gut Microbial Dysbiosis Reduces the Growth of Weaning Rats via FXR-Mediated Hepatic IGF-2 Inhibition.

The gut microbiota plays a crucial role in postnatal growth, particularly in modulating the development of animals during their growth phase. In this study, we investigated the effects of antibiotic-induced dysbiosis of the gut microbiota on the growth of weaning rats by administering a non-absorbable antibiotic cocktail (ABX) in water for 4 weeks. ABX treatment significantly reduced body weight and feed intake in rats. Concurrently, ABX treatment decreased microbial abundance and diversity in rat ceca, predominantly suppressing microbes associated with bile salt hydrolase (BSH) activity. Furthermore, decreased appetite may be attributed to elevated levels of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) in the serum, along with reduced neuropeptide Y (NPY) and increased cocaine and amphetamine-regulated transcript (CART) in the hypothalamus at the mRNA level. Importantly, concentrations of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) and insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF-2) were decreased in the serum and liver of antibiotic-treated rats. These alterations were associated with significant down-regulation of IGF-2 mRNA in the liver and significantly decreased farnesoid X receptor (FXR) protein expression and binding to the IGF-2 promoter. These results indicate that antibiotic-induced gut microbial dysbiosis not only impacts bile acid metabolism but also diminishes rat growth through the FXR-mediated IGF-2 pathway.

One anastomosis gastric bypass ameliorates diabetic nephropathy via regulating the GLP-1-mediated Sirt1/AMPK/PGC1α pathway.

Diabetic nephropathy (DN), a complication of diabetes, is the most leading cause of end-stage renal disease. Bariatric surgery functions on the remission of diabetes and diabetes-related complications. One anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB), one of popular bariatric surgery, can improve diabetes and its complications by regulating the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) level. Meanwhile, GLP-1 can alleviate renal damage in high-fat-diet-induced obese rats. However, the effect of OAGB on renal injury remains uncertain in DN. A diabetes model was elicited in rats via HFD feeding and STZ injection. The role and mechanism of OAGB were addressed in DN rats by the body and kidney weight and blood glucose supervision, oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), biochemistry detection, histopathological analysis, and western blot assays. OAGB surgery reversed the increase in body weight and glucose tolerance indicators in diabetes rats. Also, OAGB operation neutralized the DN-induced average kidney weight, kidney weight/body weight, and renal injury indexes accompanied with reduced glomerular hypertrophy, alleviated mesangial dilation and decreased tubular and periglomerular collagen deposition. In addition, OAGB introduction reduced the DN-induced renal triglyceride and renal cholesterol with the regulation of fatty acids-related proteins expression. Mechanically, OAGB administration rescued the DN-induced expression of Sirt1/AMPK/PGC1α pathway mediated by GLP-1. Pharmacological block of GLP-1 receptor inverted the effect of OAGB operation on body weight, glucose tolerance, renal tissue damage, and fibrosis and lipids accumulation in DN rats. OAGB improved renal damage and fibrosis and lipids accumulation in DN rats by GLP-1-mediated Sirt1/AMPK/PGC1α pathway.

A novel compounded cyproheptadine hydrochloride oral solution: Accelerated stability study and effects on glucose and lipid metabolism in Wistar rats

The present study developed a compounded oral solution (COS) containing an active component cyproheptadine hydrochloride (CY) in association with pharmaceutical adjuvants. The main objective is to demonstrate the stability of this solution and the in vivo effects on serum and liver parameters of glucose and lipid metabolism. After 180 days of analysis the COS showed physicochemical stability (pH and specific gravity) when submitted to different temperatures (24 °C and 40 °C), but the chemical stability, presented by the content of CY (%) in the formulation, showed that the degradation rate of CY increased 20x when submitted to a stress condition (40 °C). Male Wistar rats were treated with IOS 1.5 (industrial oral solution 1.5 mg.kg-1) or saline for 21 days and IOS 5.0 or COS (5 mg.kg-1) or placebo by gavage for 23 days. Treatment with IOS 1.5 increased liver cholesterol by 30 % without changing liver and body weight in this group. In contrast, treatment with IOS and COS (5 mg.kg-1) increased final body weight by 8 % compared to placebo. Interestingly, the COS group had increased liver glycogen accompanied by reduced food intake compared to IOS. However, COS and IOS 5.0 did not induce changes in adipose tissue weight, liver weight, as well as serum glucose, triacylglycerol and cholesterol levels. This work provides us with data that prove the stability of the compound solution at room temperature, as well as inducing an increase in the final body weight of rats with no alteration in glucose and lipid metabolism.

Tetrabromobisphenol A reduces male rats reproductive organ coefficients and disrupting sexual hormone by causing oxidative stress

Tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA) has become a topic of public attention due to its pervasive detection in the environment and organisms in recent decades. However, limited information is available regarding the toxicity of TBBPA on reproductive ability of male mammals. Herein, the reproductive toxicity of TBBPA was investigated in male rats to fill the knowledge gap. In this study, male rats were exposed to TBBPA (0, 10, 100, and 1000 mg/kg) for 6 weeks. Subsequently, body and organ indexes, histopathological evaluation of testis and epididymis, ultrastructural observation of sperm, testosterone and progesterone levels, and oxidative stress indicators were conducted to reveal corresponding mechanisms. Results obtained showed that compare to the control group, the body weight, testes weight, epididymis weight, seminal vesicle and coagulation glands weight of rats in the 1000 mg/kg group lost 8.30%, 16.84%, 20.16%, 19.72% and 26.42%, respectively. Intriguingly, exposure to TBBPA (10, 100, 100 mg/kg) resulted in substantial pathological damage in testis, epididymis and sperm. TBBPA exposure also increased malondialdehyde (MDA) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) contents, as well as superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities in testicular tissue. What’s more, the testosterone and progesterone levels in male rat serum were significantly decreased after exposure to TBBPA for 6 weeks. Meanwhile, results of molecular docking showed that TBBPA has a strong affinity with estrogen receptors (ERs). These findings demonstrated that TBBPA exposure negatively impacts the reproductive ability of male rats, thus providing new insights for risk assessment for reproductive health under TBBPA exposure.

Is coffee effective on food intake in high fat diet-fed obese rats?

Objective: Coffee might be effective in the treatment of obesity with its high polyphenol and caffeine content. In this regard, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of different coffee types on body weight, food intake, and biochemical parameters in obese rats. Methods: Wistar Albino adult male rats were randomly divided into four groups (one control and three coffee groups) after obesity development (after six weeks), and three types of coffee (Turkish coffee, instant coffee, filter coffee) administration were performed for two weeks. Results: Food consumption was statistically significantly lower in the Turkish coffee (15,6±1,06 g/d) and filter coffee group (16,9±0,8 g/d) compared to the control group (18,5±0,6) in the eighth-week (p&lt;0.001). At the end of two weeks, there is no difference between the groups regarding weight in the rats (p&gt;0.05). However, the body weight gain (g) change was lower in the Turkish coffee group (p&lt;0.001). There was no significant difference between groups in biochemical parameters. However, negative correlations were obtained between NE (ng/L), Leptin (ng/ml), Adiponectin (mg/L), UCP-1 (ng/L), UCP-2 (ng/L), UCP-3 (ng/L) and average energy intake (kcal) in Turkish coffee administrated rats. Conclusion: According to the study results, coffee consumption, especially Turkish coffee, has a reducing effect on food intake. This effect is likely due to the higher phenolic content of the given Turkish coffee than the same amount of filter and instant coffee. Further studies are needed to explain the effects of coffee consumption on body weight and other casual relationships, especially in the long term.

Impact of various dietary lipids on amelioration of biomarkers linked to metabolic syndrome in both healthy and diabetic Wistar rats

BackgroundThe present study was designed to investigate the influence of different dietary lipids (sheep’s fat, olive oil, coconut oil, and corn oil) on specific biomarkers associated with metabolic syndrome in both healthy and diabetic rats.MethodsThe study designed for 45 days, utilized a male diabetic wistar rat (body weight, 180–220 g) model induced by streptozotocin (45 mg/kg bw). The rats were divided into two sections: five non-diabetic and five diabetic groups, each containing six rats. The first group in each section serving as the control, received a standard diet. Both non-diabetic or diabetic groups, were provided with a standard diet enriched with 15% sheep fat, 15% coconut oil, 15% olive oil, and 15% corn oil, respectively for a duration of 45 days.ResultsPost-supplementation, both healthy and diabetic control rats exhibited a higher food intake compared to rats supplemented with lipid diet; notably food intake was higher in diabetic control than healthy control. However, rats fed with coconut oil, olive oil and sheep fat showed weight gain at the end of the experiment, in both healthy and diabetic groups. Coconut oil supplementation significantly (p ≤ 0.05) increased HDL-C and total cholesterol level in diabetic groups compared to healthy group, it was confirmed by an increased PPAR-α and ABCA-1 protein level. Olive oil significantly decreased triglyceride, total cholesterol, and LDL-C levels in diabetic rats when compared to sheep fat or coconut oil. Corn oil significantly decreased fasting glucose, total cholesterol and LDL-C levels compared to all other groups. Corn and olive oil supplemented normal groups, found with significant increase in hepatic glucose-lipid oxidative metabolism associated protein, like FGF-21, MSH, ABCA-1, PPAR-γ and decreased lipogenesis proteins like, SREBP and PPAR-α levels. In contrast, sheep grease and coconut oil increased SREBP and PPAR-α expression in both normal and diabetic groups. Most notably, normal and diabetic groups pretreated with sheep grease resulted in increased inflammatory (MCP-1, IL-1β, TLR-4, TNF-α), and oxidative stress markers (LPO, GSH, GPx, SOD and CAT) linked with metabolic complications.ConclusionThe combination or alternative use of olive oil and corn oil in daily diet may play a significant role in preventing proinflammatory condition associated with insulin resistance and cardiovascular diseases.

Evaluation of the feeding safety of Moringa (Moringa oleifera L.) in the Sprague Dawley rat

This study aimed to evaluate the safety of Moringa by comparing the effects of different gavage doses of Moringa. The general behavior, body weight, food intake, blood indexes, serum biochemical indexes, and histopathology of rats were used to determine the safety threshold and to provide a reference for the further development and use of Moringa as animal feed. 40 Sprague Dawley rats were selected and given transoral gavage for 28 consecutive days. The T1, T2 and T3 groups were observed for general behavior, body weight, and food intake. Blood and serum biochemical indices were quantified, and histopathology was performed to evaluate the effect and safety of Moringa. The results of the toxicological test showed that (1) Only T1 groups experienced diarrhea. (2) The body weight and food intake of rats in each group were normal compared with the control group. (3) The hematological and serum biochemical indices of rats in the T1 group were significantly different from those of CK but were in the normal range; (4) The results of microscopic examination of the heart, liver, spleen, lung, and kidney of rats in each group were normal, but inflammation occurred in stomach and jejunum of rats in the T1 group, but not in the ileum. The gastrointestinal tract of rats in the T2 and T3 groups were normal. (5) No abnormal death occurred in any of the treatment groups.The results of this study revealed that gavage of Moringa homogenate at a dose of 6 g/kg BW can cause diarrhea in rats. Although there is no pathological effect on weight, food intake, blood and serum biochemical indicators in rats, there are pathological textures in the gastrointestinal tissue caused by diarrhea. Therefore, the safety threshold of Moringa homogenate should be ≤ 3 g/kg BW.

Identification and Safety Assessment of Enterococcus casseliflavus KB1733 Isolated from Traditional Japanese Pickle Based on Whole-Genome Sequencing Analysis and Preclinical Toxicity Studies.

The present study involves the precise identification and safety evaluation of Enterococcus casseliflavus KB1733, previously identified using 16S rRNA analysis, through whole-genome sequencing, phenotypic analysis, and preclinical toxicity studies. Analyses based on the genome sequencing data confirm the identity of KB1733 as E. casseliflavus and show that the genes related to vancomycin resistance are only present on the chromosome, while no virulence factor genes are present on the chromosome or plasmid. Phenotypic analyses of antibiotic resistance and hemolytic activity also indicated no safety concerns. A bacterial reverse mutation test showed there was no increase in revertant colonies of heat-killed KB1733. An acute toxicity test employing heat-killed KB1733 at a dose of 2000 mg/kg body weight in rats resulted in no deaths and no weight gain or other abnormalities in the general condition of the animals, with renal depression foci and renal cysts only occurring at the same frequency as in the control. Taking the background data into consideration, the effects on the kidneys observed in the current study were not caused by KB1733. Our findings suggest that KB1733 is non-pathogenic to humans/animals, although further studies involving repeated oral toxicity tests and/or clinical tests are required.

Petroleum ether extract of Schisandra sphenanthera prevents hyperglycemia and insulin resistance in association with modulation of sweet taste receptors and gut microbiota in T2DM rats

Ethnopharmacological relevanceSchisandra sphenanthera (Schisandra sphenanthera Rehd. et Wils.) is the dried mature fruit of Schisandra sphenanthera, a plant in the Magnoliaceae family. It was used in the treatment of diabetes mellitus in the Jade Fluid Decoction and the Xiaoke pills, which were recorded in ancient books. However, its mechanism of action in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) was unclear and needs further study. Aim of the studyThis research aimed to investigate the chemical composition and lignan content of Schisandra sphenanthera petroleum ether parts (SPEP) and to evaluate the effects of SPEP on sweet taste receptors (STRs) and intestinal flora in rats on a high-fat diet (HFD). Additionally, the relationships between SPEP and hyperglycemia and insulin resistance were examined. Materials and methodsGC-MS was used to determine the chemical composition of SPEP, and HPLC was used to determine the lignin content. A combination of the HFD and the administration of streptozotocin (STZ) was employed to generate a rat model of T2DM. Petroleum ether extracts from Schisandra sphenanthera were used as the focus of the research to evaluate the effects of these extracts on the glucolipid metabolism of T2DM rats, as well as the underlying mechanisms. ResultsAnalysis of the GC-MS spectrum of SESP revealed a total of 58 compounds. HPLC analysis revealed that SPEP had the highest concentration of Schisandrin A and the lowest concentration of Schisandrol A. The drug administration intervention resulted in a significant decrease in body weight and pancreatic weight of diabetic rats compared to the Normal group. When compared to the Model group, the body weight of rats in the drug administration group and the Metformin group had a more moderate decrease, while the pancreatic weight and pancreatic-to-body ratio increased. The Model group shown significant increases in FBG, OGTT, GHb, TC, TG, LDL-C, ALT, AST, MDA, FINS, and NEFA, as well as significant decreases in HDL-C and SOD, when compared to the Normal group (P < 0.05). The administration of each group was found to be significantly effective in decreasing FBG, OGTT, GHb, TC, TG, LDL-C, ALT, AST, MDA, FINS, NEFA, while increasing HDL-C and SOD when compared to the Model group. The application of SPEP had a positive impact on hepatocyte swelling, hepatocyte degeneration, and necrosis, as well as the morphological structure of pancreatic islet cells. Furthermore, the protein expression levels of T1R2, TRPM5 and GLP-1 in the small intestine of the Model group were reduced. After a period of six weeks, the protein expression levels began to align more closely with those of the Normal group of rats. Analysis of 16S rRNA sequencing revealed that the intestinal microbiota of diabetic rats was significantly disrupted, with a decrease in the abundance of the Firmicutes phylum and an increase in the abundance of the Bacteroidetes phylum. Furthermore, the composition of the dominant genus was distinct from that of the control group. After the drug intervention, the microbiota of diabetic rats was significantly altered, exhibiting a higher abundance and diversity, as well as a significant enrichment of the community. The SPEP treatment resulted in a significant increase in acetic acid, propionic acid, and butyric acid. ConclusionsThe findings of this research indicated that SPEP could be effective in treating T2DM through the regulation of STRs, the adjustment of disturbed metabolite levels, and the alteration of intestinal flora.

Different Effects of Hylocecarus Polyrhizus and Hylocecarus Undatus Extract on Reducing Total Cholesterol of Male Rattus Norvegicus Wistar Strain

A chronic ailment that is caused by excessive food consumption and a lack of physical activity, obesity is a condition that may be prevented. The tropical dragon fruit can control cholesterol levels, support the immune system, and give a natural colorant for culinary applications. In a true experimental research, sample with rats were fed red and white dragon fruit extracts to determine the amounts of cholesterol in their bodies. Spectrophotometry was used to determine the rats' blood lipid profiles, cholesterol levels, and body weight after they were fed a meal that was high in fat and contained duck egg yolk. For this study, extracts from red and white dragon fruits were administered to male Wistar rats to determine their effects on cholesterol levels. After fourteen days, both groups had a reduction in high cholesterol levels, with group 4 exhibiting the most significant drop in cholesterol levels. Additionally, the extracts decreased the levels of MDA while simultaneously increasing the levels of SOD. The most significant rise was seen in group 4, given white dragon fruit extract at 140 mg/200 gr BW daily. SPSS was utilized to analyze the effects of dragon fruit on blood cholesterol levels in experimental animals, employing the LSD technique and one-way ANOVA.

Neferine alleviates ovariectomy-induced osteoporosis by enhancing osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells via regulation of the p38MAPK pathway

ABSTRACT Objective Osteoporosis, a skeletal ailment marked by bone metabolism imbalance and disruption of bone microarchitecture, Neferine, a bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloid with diverse pharmacological activities, has received limited attention in the context of osteoporosis treatment. Methods We employed a bilateral ovariectomy (OVX) rat model to induce osteoporosis and subsequently administered Neferine treatment for four weeks following successful model establishment. Throughout the modeling and treatment phases, we closely monitored rat body weights. We assessed alterations in bone tissue microstructure through micro-CT, HE staining, and safranin O-fast green staining. Levels of bone formation and resorption markers in serum were evaluated using ELISA assay. Western blot analysis was employed to determine the expression levels of p38MAPK, p-p38MAPK, and bone formation-related genes in bone tissue. We isolated and cultured OVX rat BMSCs (OVX-BMSCs) and induced osteogenic differentiation while simultaneously introducing Neferine and the p38MAPK inhibitor SB203580 for intervention. Results Neferine treatment effectively curbed the rapid weight gain in OVX rats, ameliorated bone loss, and decreased serum levels of TRAP, CTX-I, PINP, and BALP. Most notably, Neferine promoted the expression of bone formation-related factors in bone tissue of OVX rats, while concurrently activating the p38MAPK signaling pathway. In in vitro experiments, Neferine facilitated the expression of bone formation-related factors in OVX-BMSCs, increased the osteogenic differentiation potential of OVX-BMSCs, and activated the p38MAPK signaling pathway. Nevertheless, SB203580 partially reversed Neferine’s promotive effect. Conclusion Neferine can boost the osteoblastic differentiation of BMSCs and alleviate OVX-induced osteoporosis in rats by activating the p38MAPK signaling pathway.

Astragalus mongholicus polysaccharides alleviate insulin resistance through modulation of PI3K/AKT, TLR4/NF-kB signaling pathway and microbiota in rats with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Background and aimAstragali Radix has been widely used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat diabetes and a variety of other diseases. This study aims to evaluate the alleviating effects and mechanisms of Astragalus mongholicus Polysaccharide (mAPS) against diet combined with streptozotocin (STZ)-induced Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). Experimental procedureT2DM rats were orally administrated either with 200 mg/kg mAPS or 300 mg/kg Metformin (MET) once daily for four weeks. Body weight and Fasting Blood Glucose (FBG) were detected every 6 days. Serum fasting insulin (FINS) was measured by ELISA and the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) was calculated accordingly. Histological change was studied by Hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining. 16S rDNA sequencing was used to detect the changes in gut microbiota. Results and conclusionOral administration of mAPS significantly decreased body weight, FBG, and HOMA-IR in T2DM rats (p＜0.05). Moreover, HE staining showed that mAPS could alleviate histological distortion in the liver and pancreas. Treatment with mAPS elevated the hepatic levels of phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase (PI3K), phospho-protein kinase B (AKT), and glucose transporter type 4 (GLUT4), while reducing phospho-nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB), Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) (p＜0.05). Furthermore, mAPS supplementation could reverse the ratio of Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes (F/B) and reduce the abundance of Clostridia and Proteobacteria (p＜0.05). These results indicate that mAPS have the potential to enhance insulin sensitivity in diabetic rats by modifying gut microbiota and controlling the hepatic glycolipid metabolism and inflammation.

ROLE OF H2S AS A PREDICTOR OF CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE IN METABOLIC SYNDROME

Objective: One of the possible protective factors that can protect target vascular cells (endothelial, smooth muscle cells) from damage during the development of metabolic syndrome (MetS) is hydrogen sulfide (H2S). Design and method: A study was carried out in male Wistar rats weighing 250–320 g, 140 days old at the end of research. The rats from the control group were fed standard rat chow. The rats from the experimental group had a high-fat high-carbohydrate (HFHC) diet. Biochemical parameters of rat blood were determined. The concentration of H2S in the blood serum and adipose tissue of rats was determined by the photometric method at 670 nm. The expression of the H2S synthesis enzyme CSE was studied in aortic tissue samples using Western blot. Results: It was found that HFHC diet led to an increase in body weight, obesity, hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and leptinemia in the experimental group rats. It was found that the concentration of H2S significantly decreased in the blood serum and adipose tissue of rats with MetS. The rate of production of H2S in adipose tissue of rats with MetS also decreased. In the aortic tissue of rats with MetS, there was a decrease in the amount of protein of the CSE. Conclusions: Changes in the activity of the H2S/CSE system in MetS may be additional evidence of the development of vascular dysfunction in metabolic disorders.

Nandrolone treatment of adolescent female rats alters reproductive tissue and gonadal steroid profile

Anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) are drugs that mimic the chemical structure of testosterone. The most commonly AAS used by young adults is nandrolone. In the USA, more than 20 % of AAS users started using steroids before the age of 20. This is alarming as most female users are unaware of the detrimental reproductive effects of AAS use such as amenorrhea, anovulation and clitoromegaly. An additional detrimental effect of AAS is their addictive liability. Previous studies indicate that animals self-administer AAS. Furthermore, AAS can cross-sensitize with other drugs of abuse such as cocaine. Our goal was to elucidate the effects of both AAS and cocaine in the reproductive system of female rats. Our hypothesis is that AAS will have a detrimental effect on the reproductive system of female rats. Adolescent female rats were divided into two large groups, one that received nandrolone decanoate (20mg/kg/sc) and another that received sesame oil (vehicle) for 10 successive days starting on day 28. Animals were further subdivided into groups that received saline or cocaine injections (0.01cc/10g) for a total of 4 groups: Oil-Saline, ND-Saline, Oil-Cocaine and ND-Cocaine. One cohort (Day 40) received cocaine or saline injections (0.01cc/10g) from days 40 to 44 and on days 52 and day 62. The other cohort (Day 65) received cocaine or saline injections from days 65 to 69 and on days 77 and 87. Our data show that administration of nandrolone during adolescence increased body weight of female rats. Ovarian weight was decreased, and ovarian tissue presented multiple cysts with fewer follicles. Nandrolone also disrupted uterine morphology. The uterine lumen was increased, the endometrial thickness reduced and thickness of myometrial tissue, as well as uterine weight, was increased. In addition, nandrolone reduced both endometrial estrogen and androgen receptors, an effect lost by day 88. In contrast, uterine tissue at day 63 showed an increase in progesterone receptor (PR) immunoreactivity, whereas PR immunoreactivity decreased in tissue obtained at Day 88 regardless of whether animals had received cocaine. Cocaine also increased PR receptors in uterine tissue at day 63 and 88. Animals treated with nandrolone had higher serum concentrations of testosterone and estradiol and a lower level of progesterone. These data show that nandrolone when administered in supraphysiologic doses during adolescence, has long lasting effects on the reproductive system of the female rat due to the depot effects and long half-life of this drug. These data warrant further research in this area to determine the long-term consequences of early nandrolone exposure on the female reproductive system, as well as fertility. Financial assistance was provided by the Offce of International Science and Engineering (OISE) of NSF through the Partnerships for Research and Education (PIRE) Program (OISE-#1545803). This is the full abstract presented at the American Physiology Summit 2024 meeting and is only available in HTML format. There are no additional versions or additional content available for this abstract. Physiology was not involved in the peer review process.

Effects of potassium supplementation and deficiency on the progression of salt-sensitive hypertension

While the physiological effects of sodium on blood pressure are well established, many of the effects of potassium remain unclear. Prior work found that increased potassium intake decreases blood pressure and risk of cardiovascular disease, improves vasodilation, has reno-protective effects, and can stimulate natriuresis. In this study, we examined how different sodium/potassium ratios affect the development of salt-sensitive hypertension, specifically examining changes in the kidney and the renin angiotensin aldosterone system (RAAS). We hypothesized that blood pressure would directly correlate to the Na+/K+ ratio and that there would be compensatory changes in RAAS and in expression of renal potassium channels, particularly inwardly rectifying potassium (Kir) channels. At 9 weeks of age, male and female Dahl SS rats were placed on a high salt (4% NaCl) diet for 5 weeks with normal potassium (NK, 0.36% K+), high potassium (HK, 1.41% K+), or potassium depleted (DK, &lt;0.0001% K+) diet. After 5 weeks of dietary intervention, DK animals were hypokalemic, and HK animals had significantly increased plasma potassium. Potassium supplementation attenuated the development of salt-sensitive hypertension in male rats fed the HK diet compared to NK; the DK group did not develop hypertension. Potassium supplementation did not attenuate blood pressure in female rats, who also had a higher mortality rate on the DK diet. Heart rates were unchanged in both male and female HK groups but were significantly lower in the DK groups of both sexes. After 5 weeks of diet, the total body weights of DK rats were significantly lower. The 2 kidney/total body weight ratios were not different between the HK and NK groups, but the kidneys of the DK group were significantly larger, likely due to their smaller body weights. Medullary protein casts in DK rats of both sexes were decreased but no renoprotective effects were observed in the HK group. Western blot analysis of renal potassium channels demonstrated no changes in the expression of ROMK, significantly increased Kir5.1 in DK males and females, and a significant increase in Kir4.1 and the alpha-subunit of the Na+/K+-ATPase in DK males. We analyzed RAAS metabolites from plasma samples collected at the endpoint: Ang I (1-10), Ang IV (3-8), and Ang (1-5) were significantly decreased in DK males and females, Ang II (1-8) and Ang III (2-8) were significantly reduced in DK males, and aldosterone was significantly increased in HK males and females. These results provide a comprehensive assessment of how various potassium diets affect the development of salt-sensitive hypertension in both males and females, which will provide a solid foundation for future mechanistic studies. R01DK129227, I01 BX004024, R35HL135749. This is the full abstract presented at the American Physiology Summit 2024 meeting and is only available in HTML format. There are no additional versions or additional content available for this abstract. Physiology was not involved in the peer review process.

Intra-peritoneal lavage of Zingiber officinale rhizome and its active constituent gingerol impede inflammation, angiogenesis, and fibrosis following post-operative peritoneal adhesion in male rats

Post-operative peritoneal adhesions (PA) are a common and important clinical problem. In this study, we focused on the ameliorative efficacy of ginger and gingerol compounds on surgical-induced peritoneal adhesion, and their strategies that disrupted the PA formation pathways to suppress their incidence. First, liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) was established to separate and identify several chemical groups of ginger rhizome extract. In the next steps, male Wistar albino rats were randomly selected and divided into various groups, namely sham, control, ginger extract (0.6, 1.8, 5 %w/v), and gingerol (0.05, 0.1, 0.3, and 1 %w/v). Finally, we investigated the macroscopic parameters such as wound healing, body weight as well as spleen height and weight. In addition, visual peritoneal adhesion assessment was performed via Nair et al and Adhesion Scoring Scheme. Moreover, the microscopic parameters and biological assessment was performed via and immunoassays. The present findings revealed significant improvement in wound healing and reduction of the adhesion range, as Nair et al. and Adhesion Scoring Scheme scoring, in both the ginger and gingerol groups compared to the PA group (P < 0.05). Whereas, gingerol (0.3 % w/v) was able to increase the body weight in rats (P < 0.0001) at end stage of experiment. Also, inflammation, angiogenesis, and fibrosis were significantly decreased due to the downregulation of interleukin (IL)-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), respectively, in the ginger and gingerol groups compared to the PA group (P < 0.05). In contrast, the levels of IL-10 were increased in the ginger and gingerol groups compared to the control group (P < 0.01). Our results proved that ginger rhizome and gingerol, as novel therapeutic compounds, could be used to prevent PA for their beneficial anti-inflammatory as well as anti-fibrosis properties in clinical trials. However, further clinical studies are required to approve the effectiveness of ginger and gingerol.

SAFETY ASSESSMENT OF AYURVEDIC GOLD MEDICATION SUVARNA BHASMA, IN WISTAR RATS

Suvarna bhasma (SB) contains gold and lead, which are highly potent metals and are toxic in their crude form. This study evaluated the safety profile of the medication. Suvarna bhasma was administered for 90 consecutive days orally at three doses (10.23 mg kg-1, 40.92 mg kg-1 and 102.3 mg kg-1 body weight) to wistar rats. Clinical observations, feed and water consumption, and body weight changes were noted during the study period. On the 91st day, hematological, biochemical and histopathological changes were studied. There was a significant decrease in body weight of rats at a low dose (10.23 mg kg-1) at fourth week, which could not be correlated with feed and water consumption findings. Thus, change was not considered as a treatment-related effect. Suvarna bhasma showed no evident untoward effect in haematological, biochemical and histopathological parameters in the 90 day-subchronic toxicity study (OECD 408 guidelines) and was safe in Wistar rats.