Decrease In Glucose Concentration Research Articles

Bacterial strains isolated from cedar wood improve the mycelial growth and morphology of white rot fungus Phlebia brevispora on agar and liquid medium

Growth enhancement of white rot fungus Phlebia brevispora TN3F by two bacterial strains TN3W-8 and TN3W-14 which showed high identity with genus Pseudomonas and Enterobacter, respectively, was investigated in liquid and solid media at different glucose concentrations. The white rot fungus P. brevispora TN3F and the bacterial strains were isolated from same white rot-decayed cedar wood from the Tano Forest Science Station at University of Miyazaki. Confrontational assay between the fungus and the bacterial strains revealed a fungal growth enhancement phenomenon, in the direction of the bacterial cells, even without direct contact. This enhancement increased with decrease of glucose concentration, 0.5% glucose offering comparatively the most mycelial growth. In potato extract (PE) medium at 0.5% glucose concentration, along with mycelial growth enhancement and morphological change of P. brevispora TN3F, growth and morphological enhancement of fungus TMIC33929, another strain of P. brevispora, was achieved by the bacterial strain TN3W-14, although TMIC33929 originated from a different environment. Outside few reports of a positive interaction between white rot fungi and other microorganisms, this is a first report of such positive interaction in liquid medium. Furthermore, this also is the first report of a single bacterium having potential to positively affect mycelia growth of different strains of a white rot fungus.

Leptin and Leptin Receptor Genes Are Associated With Obesity-Related Traits Changes in Response to Aerobic Training Program.

Leońska-Duniec, A, Jastrzębski, Z, Jażdżewska, A, Krzysztof, F, and Cięszczyk, P. Leptin and leptin receptor genes are associated with obesity-related traits changes in response to aerobic training program. J Strength Cond Res 32(4): 1036-1044, 2018-Leptin (LEP) and leptin receptor (LEPR) genes have been studied for their potential association with development of human obesity and its related complications. Therefore, we have decided to check whether selected body mass, body composition, and metabolic variables observed in physically active participants will be modulated by the polymorphisms. The genotype distribution was examined in a group of 201 women measured for chosen traits before and after the completion of a 12-week aerobic training program. Our results revealed a significant interaction between training and LEP genotype for glucose level. A training-related decrease in plasma glucose concentration in the LEP AG heterozygotes differed significantly from the change in the homozygotes. The polymorphism was also associated with fat-free mass (FFM), total body water (TBW), total cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels. Another finding was a significant interaction between training and LEPR for LDL-C level. As opposed to AG and GG, AA homozygotes demonstrated a training-related decrease in LDL-C level. Our findings also showed that the LEPR G allele is connected with obesity-related traits. The participants with the GG genotype had higher body mass, body mass index (BMI), FFM, and TBW during the entire study period. This study provides evidence that polymorphisms in the LEP and LEPR genes are associated with the magnitude of the effects of regular physical activity on glucose and LDL-C levels, respectively. In addition, we found the association of the G allele of the LEPR polymorphism with body mass and BMI.

Evolutionarily‐Conserved Mechanisms of Nutrient Acquisition in the Primordial Vertebrate, the Pacific Hagfish

Hagfish occupy the basal position of vertebrate phylogeny and are thus of interest for studies examining the evolution of vertebrate traits. Despite a morphologically basic digestive tract, the carnivorous hagfish can rapidly and effectively acquire nutrients from which they can persist off of for upwards of 11 months. Previous studies indicate that hagfish preferentially utilize carbohydrates and transition into fat‐fuelled energy sources as fasting progresses, yet few studies examine the mechanisms by which hagfish acquire nutrients. The aim of the present study was to examine and characterize the mechanisms of nutrient acquisition in the hindgut of the Pacific hagfish (Eptatretus stoutii), focusing on one molecule from each category of macronutrients: carbohydrates (glucose), fats (oleic acid) and proteins (alanyl‐alanine). Radiotracer fluxes across intestinal tissue demonstrated concentration‐dependent uptake indicative of regulated transport, for glucose (Km 0.37 mM, Jmax 8.48 nmol/cm2/h), oleic acid (Km 55 μM, Jmax 1131 pmol/cm2/h) and alanyl‐alanine (Km 1071 μM, Jmax 70 nmol/cm2/h). Pharmacological inhibition of glucose transporters (34% decrease with 200 μM cytochalasin‐b) and sodium‐glucose linked transporters (52–83% decrease with 0.0001–1μM phlorizin) suggest mechanisms akin to those in mammals exist in the hagfish hindgut. Further similarity in transport arises in that dipeptide transport is dependent upon sodium‐proton exchange, wherein a reduced sodium environment yields a 48% decrease in transport rates. While specific isoforms of mammalian fatty acid transporters demonstrate insulin sensitivity, hagfish oleic acid transport rates were unaffected by insulin application (average rate 2741± 262 pmol/cm2/h, N=10), despite a noted 71% decrease in plasma glucose concentration. Finally, feeding resulted in significant remodeling of the intestinal mucosa with hindgut absorptive microvilli lengthening by 125% post‐feeding. Correspondingly, an increased rate of transport was noted post‐feeding, with the degree of change dependent upon the substrate type. This study reveals evolutionarily‐conserved mechanisms of nutrient transport over a broad range of substrates in the oldest extant vertebrate and solidifies the applicability of hagfish as a model for studies of early vertebrate evolution.Support or Funding InformationSupported by NSERC Discovery Grants to GG (203736) and CG (251083)This abstract is from the Experimental Biology 2018 Meeting. There is no full text article associated with this abstract published in The FASEB Journal.

Titanium dioxide nanoparticle exposure alters metabolic homeostasis in a cell culture model of the intestinal epithelium and Drosophila melanogaster

Nanosized titanium dioxide (TiO2) is a common additive in food and cosmetic products. The goal of this study was to investigate if TiO2 nanoparticles affect intestinal epithelial tissues, normal intestinal function, or metabolic homeostasis using in vitro and in vivo methods. An in vitro model of intestinal epithelial tissue was created by seeding co-cultures of Caco-2 and HT29-MTX cells on a Transwell permeable support. These experiments were repeated with monolayers that had been cultured with the beneficial commensal bacteria Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (L. rhamnosus). Glucose uptake and transport in the presence of TiO2 nanoparticles was assessed using fluorescent glucose analog 2-(N-(7-nitrobenz-2-oxa-1,3-diazol-4-yl)amino)-2-deoxyglucose (2-NBDG). When the cell monolayers were exposed to physiologically relevant doses of TiO2, a statistically significant reduction in glucose transport was observed. These differences in glucose absorption were eliminated in the presence of beneficial bacteria. The decrease in glucose absorption was caused by damage to intestinal microvilli, which decreased the surface area available for absorption. Damage to microvilli was ameliorated in the presence of L. rhamnosus. Complimentary studies in Drosophila melanogaster showed that TiO2 ingestion resulted in decreased body size and glucose content. The results suggest that TiO2 nanoparticles alter glucose transport across the intestinal epithelium, and that TiO2 nanoparticle ingestion may have physiological consequences.

Effect of phosphate nutrition on growth, physiology and phosphate transporter expression of cucumber seedlings

Although abundantly present in soils, inorganic phosphate (Pi) acquisition by plants is highly dependent on the transmembrane phosphate transporter (PT) gene family. Cucumber (Cucumis sativus) requires a large amount of phosphorus (P). The purpose of this study was to isolate the CsPT2-1 from cucumber roots, and to determine the influence of Pi nutrition on cucumber growth, metabolism and transcript levels of CsPT2-1 in tissues. Full length CsPT2-1 was cloned and phylogenetically identified. In two greenhouse experiments, P-deficient seedlings provided with low or high P concentrations were sampled at 10 and 21 days post treatment, respectively. Addition of P dramatically reduced growth of roots but not shoots. Supplying plants with high P resulted in increased total protein in leaves. Acid phosphatase activity increased significantly in leaves at any rate higher than 4 mM P. Increasing P concentration had a notable decrease in glucose concentrations in leaves of plants supplied with >0.5 mM P. In roots, glucose and starch concentrations increased with increasing P supply. Steady-state transcript levels of CsPT2-1 were high in P-deprived roots, but declined when plants were provided >10 mM P. To our knowledge, this is the first report focusing on a PT and its expression levels in cucumber.

HYPOGLYCEMIC AND LIPID LOWERING EFFECT OF AQUEOUS FRESH LEAF EXTRACT OF CHROMOLAENA ODORATA (LINN) IN ALBINO WISTAR RATS FED DIFFERENT CONCENTRATIONS OF CHOLESTEROL ENRICHED DIET

Objectives: High lipids and carbohydrate have been seriously implicated to cardiovascular problems, which has led to several uses of medicinal plants for traditional remedies. The present study investigated the lipid lowering activity of fresh leaf extract of Chromolaena odorata in Albino wistar rats. Methods: Twenty (20) rats used for the study were grouped into four groups of five (5) rats each. Group I served as normal control, group II, III and IV served as test groups, fed 75, 108 and 148 g of cholesterol enriched diet for one week and thereafter, administered with 50, 100 and 150 mg/kg body weight of fresh leaf extract of Chromolaena odorata respectively for four (4) days. Lipid profile and blood glucose were assayed at fed state and after administration. Results showed a significant (p<0.05) increase in total cholesterol, triacylglycerol, low density lipoprotein, blood glucose concentration and body weight compared with control group in fed state. Results: Administration with fresh leaf extract of Chromolaena odorata showed a significant (p<0.05) increase in high density lipoprotein, significant (p<0.05) decrease in blood glucose concentration, low density lipoproteins, triacylglycerol, total cholesterol and body weight of rats. The oral treatment with 50, 100 and 150 mg/kg body weight of the fresh leaf extract of this study demonstrated a general hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic activity not necessary a dose dependent pattern. Conclusion: It may therefore be concluded that the hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic activity of Chromolaena odorata taken freshly squeezed could be due to its phytochemical and antioxidants content. Peer Review History: Received 24 February 2018; Revised 3 March; Accepted 8 March, Available online 15 March 2018 UJPR follows the most transparent and toughest ‘Advanced OPEN peer review’ system. The identity of the authors and, reviewers will be known to each other. This transparent process will help to eradicate any possible malicious/purposeful interference by any person (publishing staff, reviewer, editor, author, etc) during peer review. As a result of this unique system, all reviewers will get their due recognition and respect, once their names are published in the papers. We expect that, by publishing peer review reports with published papers, will be helpful to many authors for drafting their article according to the specifications. Auhors will remove any error of their article and they will improve their article(s) according to the previous reports displayed with published article(s). The main purpose of it is ‘to improve the quality of a candidate manuscript’. Our reviewers check the ‘strength and weakness of a manuscript honestly’. There will increase in the perfection, and transparency. Received file: Reviewer's Comments: Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 5.5/10 Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 7.5/10 Reviewer(s) detail: Dr. Adebayo Gege Grace Iyabo, University of Ibadan, Nigeria, funbimbola@gmail.com Prof. Dr. Ali Gamal Ahmed Al-kaf, Sana'a university, Yemen, alialkaf21@gmail.com Similar Articles: ANTIDIABETIC AND ANTIHYPERLIPIDEMIC ACTIVITY OF DRACAENA CINNABARI BALF. RESIN ETHANOLIC EXTRACT OF SOQATRA ISLAND IN EXPERIMENTAL ANIMALS This article has been cited by: Ndife, Joel et al. “Development and comparative evaluation of green and black tisanes using scent leaves (Chromolaena odorata).” Journal of Food Science 3 (2019): 448-455. Pubmed

Dichloroacetate is Promising for Treating Hematological Malignancy through Inhibiting Ketone Bodies Oxidation: towards Better Understanding of Its Anticancer Mechanisms

Dichloroacetate (DCA) is a promising anticancer drug that exerts potent anticancer effects in many clinical oncology studies. On biochemical and pharmacological bases, this article aims at gaining a better understanding of DCA anticancer effects. Ketone bodies oxidation (ketolysis) is an important source of energy to many cancer cells. Here, it is proved that DCA antagonizes acetoacetate and targets cancer cells' energetics through inhibiting ketolysis as novel evidence-based anticancer mechanisms. DCA was reported to inhibit oxidation of both ketone bodies (acetoacetate and β-hydroxybutyrate) in addition to palmitate. Acetoacetate diverted pyruvate metabolism from pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) to pyruvate carboxylation while DCA increased the oxidation of glucose through PDH. This suggests an antagonism between DCA and ketone bodies. Moreover, DCA was reported to inhibit β-hydroxybutyrate uptake by the extra-splanchnic tissues and decrease the clearance of ketone bodies. That may be explained by structural antagonism between DCA and ketone bodies leading to a competitive uptake at target tissues i.e. DCA may competitively antagonize ketone bodies. In a previous study, DCA infusion in starved rats caused a significant decrease in blood glucose, plasma insulin, blood lactate and pyruvate concentrations but significantly increased concentrations of ketone bodies (β-hydroxybutyrate and acetoacetate) (Blackshear et al., 1974). Based on that, DCA inhibits ketone bodies utilization for energy production. In conclusion, DCA enhances anticancer immunity, targets anaerobic cancer cell populations (via targeting Warburg effect) and targets aerobic cancer cell populations through targeting mitochondrial energy generating pathways e.g. ketolysis.

The effect of high intensity physical exercise and hypoxia on glycemia, angiogenic biomarkers and cardiorespiratory function in patients with type 1 diabetes.

An integral part of the treatment of diabetes is physical activity. Scientific reports have shown the beneficial effects of hypoxia and exercise on cardiovascular and metabolic variables in patients with diabetes. The aim of the study was to assess the effect of normobaric hypoxia and exercise on the serum concentrations of proangiogenic factors and glycemia in patients with type 1 diabetes. A total of 28 adults (aged 30.4 years ±9.7 years), suffering from diabetes for 12.1 years ±6.0 years and healthy individuals, participated in the following trials: normoxic (Nor) and hypoxic (Hy) rest and Nor and Hy incremental exercise test (Ex) (FIO2 = 15.2%). The Altitude Trainer Hypoxico System (HYP-123 Hypoxic Generator, LOWOXYGEN Technology GmbH, Berlin, Germany) corresponding to a height of about 2500 m above sea level was used in the study. Exercise tests were performed on a cycle ergometer Excalibur Sport (Lode B.V., Groningen, The Netherlands). Cardiorespiratory variables, glycemia, angiogenic and hematological indices were measured at rest and in response to both exercise protocols. The present data confirmed that the patients with type 1 diabetes demonstrated a good level of aerobic capacity and fitness. NorEx and HyEx resulted in a significant decrease in serum glucose concentration (p < 0.05 vs p < 0.01). Patients with diabetes had higher baseline hypoxia induced factor-1alpha levels compared to healthy adults (p < 0.05), which increased after exposure to hypoxia and hypoxia with exercise (p < 0.001). Hypoxia significantly decreased baseline transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) (p < 0.05) and had a significant effect on tumor necrosis factor-α level (TNF-α) (F = 4.9; p < 0.05). Our study demonstrated that hypoxia combined with exercise reduces glycemia and may induce significant benefits in the prevention of diabetes cardiovascular complications.

Effect of hypotensive therapy combined with modified diet or zinc supplementation on biochemical parameters and mineral status in hypertensive patients

BackgroundHypotensive therapy leads to a number of trace elements metabolism disturbances. Zinc balance is frequently affected by antihypertensive treatment. AimTo evaluate the effect of a hypotensive treatment, modified diet and zinc supplementation on mineral status and selected biochemical parameters in newly diagnosed hypertensive patients on monotherapy. MethodsIn the first stage, arterial hypertension in ninety-eight human subjects was diagnosed. In the second stage, antihypertensive monopharmacotherapy was implemented. In the third stage, patients were randomized into three groups and continued antihypertensive monotherapy: group D received an optimal-mineral-content diet, group S received zinc supplementation, and group C had no changes in diet or zinc supplementation. Iron, zinc, and copper concentrations in serum, erythrocytes, urine, and hair were determined. Lipids, glucose, ceruloplasmin, ferritin, albumin, C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), nitric oxide (NO), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) were assayed in serum. ResultsAntihypertensive monotherapy decreased zinc concentration in serum and erythrocytes and increased the level of zinc in urine, decreased CAT and SOD activity, TNF-α concentration in serum, and increased the level of NO in the serum. Zinc supply led to an increase in zinc concentration in serum, erythrocytes, and hair (in group S only). In the groups with higher zinc intake, decreased glucose concentration in the serum was observed. Significant correlation was seen between the zinc and glucose serum concentrations. ConclusionHypotensive drugs disturb zinc status in newly diagnosed hypertensive patients. Antihypertensive monotherapy combined with increased zinc supply in the diet or supplementation favorably modify zinc homeostasis and regulate glucose status without blood pressure affecting in patients with hypertension.

Postprandial glucose and insulin response to a high-fiber muffin top containing resistant starch type 4 in healthy adults: a double-blind, randomized, controlled trial.

VERSAFIBE™ 2470 resistant starch (RS) is an RS type 4 that is derived from high-amylose maize starch,70% total dietary fiber (TDF; AOAC method 2009.01). This was a randomized, double-blind, crossover study to evaluate the postprandial blood glucose and insulin responses of healthy adults (n = 28) after the consumption of a muffin top made with VERSAFIBE™ 2470 RS (11.6 g TDF fiber muffin top) or a control muffin top (0.9 g TDF). The muffin tops were matched for weight, total carbohydrate, sugars, protein, and fat. During each treatment period, subjects consumed a standard evening meal, fasted for 12 h, and arrived at the study clinic the following morning. Serum glucose, serum insulin, and capillary glucose were measured at 0, 15, 30, 45, 60, 90, and 120 min after muffin top consumption. The subjects completed a 7-d washout period between treatments. The consumption of the fiber muffin top resulted in a significant 33% reduction in postprandial serum glucose incremental area under the curve from 0 to 120 min and an 8% decrease in maximum glucose concentration versus the control muffin (P = 0.037 and P = 0.007, respectively). The fiber muffin top reduced postprandial serum insulin incremental area under the curve from 0 to 120 min by 38% compared with the control muffin top (P <0.001), which aligns with the blood glucose data. This study demonstrated that the inclusion of a practical dose of dietary fiber (11.6 g TDF) from VERSAFIBE™ 2470 RS in a bakery product significantly reduced postprandial glucose and insulin responses in healthy adults.

Effect of reproductive disorders on productivity and reproductive efficiency of dromedary she-camels in relation to cytokine concentration.

This experiment was conducted to study the effect of reproductive disorders on reproductive efficiency and milk production in relation with pro-inflammatory cytokines in dromedary she-camels. Total of 20 late pregnant Maghrabi she-camels, aging 6-9years, weighing 420-550kg, and between the second and third parities were divided into two groups. Animals in the first group (n = 12) showed normal reproductive status (G1) at parturition, while those in the second one (n = 8) were suffered from reproductive disorders after parturition (G2). Results showed that during pre-partum, red blood cells (RBCs) count decreased (P ≤ 0.05), while white blood cells (WBCs), packed cell volume (PCV) value, and neutrophils percentage increased (P ≤ 0.05) in G2 than in G1. Percentages of monocytes, basophils, and eosinophils as well as hemoglobin concentration did not differ significantly (P ≥ 0.05) in G1 and G2. During postpartum period, the same results were noticed in addition to increase (P ≤ 0.05) in eosinophil and decrease (P ≤ 0.05) in basophils percentages. During prepartum period, concentration of total proteins, albumin (AL) and IGF-1decreased (P ≤ 0.05), cholesterol concentration, and activity of AST and ALT were higher (P ≤ 0.05) in G2 than in G1. Globulin (GL), AL: GL ratio, glucose, urea-N, creatinine, and triglyceride concentrations did not differ significantly in G1 and G2. During postpartum period, the same results were noticed with decrease (P ≤ 0.05) in GL and glucose concentrations in G2 as compared to G1. Concentration of all pro-inflammatory cytokines, including IL-6, IL-10, and IFN-γ, was higher (P ≤ 0.05) in G2 than in G1 at different peri-parturient times. Milk yield, days in milk, protein and lactose percentages, and IgG concentration were higher (P ≤ 0.05) in G1 than in G2. Fat, total solids, solid non-fat, and ash percentages did not show any significant differences between both groups. Reproductive traits, including length of estrous cycle, duration of estrous period, number of services/conception, gestation period, days open, and conception rate, were higher (P < 0.05) in G1 than in G2. From the present study can be concluded that pro-inflammatory cytokines may be a necessary test for the early diagnosis to prevent related disease in dromedary camels suffering from reproductive disorders. This study indicated strong relationship between hematological parameters and concentration of blood biochemicals and cytokines with reproductive efficiency in camels, which may be helpful in elucidating the adverse effects associated with reproductive disorders.

The effects of metformin in type 1 diabetes mellitus

BackgroundThis retrospective study investigated the effect of adding metformin to pharmacologic insulin dosing in type 1 diabetics on insulin therapy 1 year after treatment compared with patients on insulin therapy alone.MethodsTwenty-nine adults with type 1 diabetes who had metformin added to their insulin therapy for 12 months were compared with 29 adults with type 1 diabetes who remained on insulin-alone therapy.ResultsFifty-eight patients with C peptide negative-type 1 diabetics (26 females, mean age: 29.01 ± 7.03 years, BMI: 24.18 ± 3.16 kg/m2) were analyzed. Age, sex, body weight, insulin dose requirement, plasma glucose (PG), blood pressure (BP), and lipids did not differ between groups before treatment (p > 0.05). Metabolic syndrome (44.8 vs 41.4%, p > 0.05) did not differ between the metformin-insulin and insulin alone groups before treatment. Metabolic syndrome was more decreased in the metformin-insulin group than in the insulin alone group after treatment (−8.9 ± 1.3 vs. 2.5 ± 0.6%, p = 0.028). Insulin dose requirement was lower in the metformin-insulin group than in the insulin alone group (−0.03 vs. 0.11 IU/kg/d, p = 0.006). Fasting PG (−26.9 ± 54.2 vs. 0.7 ± 29.5 mg/dL, p = 0.022) and postprandial PG (−43.1 ± 61.8 mg/dL vs. −3.1 ± 40.1 mg/dL, p = 0.010) was more decreased in the metformin-insulin group than in the insulin alone group. Body weight, lipids, and HbA1c did not differ between the groups (p > 0.05).ConclusionsMetformin decreased glucose concentrations, reduced metabolic syndrome, as well as insulin dose requirement more than insulin therapy alone, 1 year after treatment. These results were independent of blood lipid improvement or weight loss, although on average weight remained decreased with metformin-insulin therapy, whereas the average weight increased with insulin therapy alone.

The indices of metabolismin rats with periodontitis on the background of hyper- and hypothyroidism

Introduction. The multifaceted action of thyroid hormones on the rate of metabolic processes reflected on the tissues of periodontium has been known for a long time. In this case, the prevalence of periodontitis in the population, the complexity of the implementation of prevention and treatment of the disease, ambiguity in the interpretation of the main pathogenetic mechanisms makes this problem extremely relevant.The aim of the study – to learn the indices of metabolismin blood serum of rats with periodontitis without concomitant pathology and against the background of hyper- and hypothyroidism.Research Methods. The study was carried out on 48 white non-linear male rats. Determination of glucose, total protein, albumin, urea, creatinine, total cholesterol, α-cholesterol and β-cholesterol in serum was carried out on a semi-automatic biochemical analyzer Humalyzer 2000 (Human, Germany).Results and Discussion. Experimental periodontitis is accompanied by a decrease in the concentration of glucose in the blood serum, hypoalbuminemia, an increase in the concentration of urea, total cholesterol, β-cholesterol and a decrease in the concentration of α-cholesterol. The imbalance of thyroid hormones has a multifaceted effect on metabolism in experimental periodontitis. Thus, in rats with periodontitis in case of hyperthyroidism, the concentration of glucose and total protein increased, albumin concentration decreased, urea concentration increased, total cholesterol and α-cholesterol concentrations decreased, and no significant changes in β-cholesterol concentration were observed. In rats with periodontitis, combined with hypothyroidism, glucose concentration decreased, total protein concentration increased, albumin concentration decreased, urea concentration increased, total cholesterol and β-cholesterol concentrations increased, and the concentration of α-cholesterol decreased.Conclusions. Reasonable changes in all major spectra of metabolism – carbohydrate, protein and lipid in case of experimental periodontitis indicate that periodontitis is a local process that affects the general state of the organism. The imbalance of thyroid hormones has a pronounced effect on the overall metabolic processes, especially on proatherogenic changes in serum, which are more pronounced in case of an experimental periodontitis in the background of hypothyroidism.

Co-exposure of Lead Acetate and Sodium Arsenite Causes Alteration in the Markers of Liver and Kidney Functions in Male Wistar Rats

Study aim: More is still to be known about the combinative effect of lead and arsenic compounds on critical organs. In this study, the effect of single and combined exposure to lead and arsenic on some biomarkers associated with liver and kidney functions in healthy Wistar rats was assessed. Method: The rats were divided into four groups (n = 5) and were treated with sodium arsenite or lead acetate individually or in combination for 14 days. Results: The results revealed that single exposure to either compound caused significant increase in the hepatic transaminases and alkaline phosphatase. Significant decrease in serum proteins and glucose concentration were also observed with morphological changes in the liver of treated rats as discovered by the photomicrographs from light microscopy indicating hepatotoxicity. Similarly, significant increase in the blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine concentration with simultaneous rise in the concentrations of serum potassium and sodium were observed. The photomicrographs of the kidney from light microscopy showed congestion in the interstitial spaces indicating compromised function of the kidney. The combination of the two metals demonstrated the enhanced effect on these parameters when likened with their individual treatments. Conclusion: This study therefore proves the enhanced toxicity induced by co-exposure to lead acetate and sodium arsenite among biomarkers of liver and kidney functions in Wistar rats.

Blood Glucose Determination: Effect of Tube Additives.

The measurement of fasting plasma glucose may be biased by a time-dependent decrease of glucose in blood tubes, mainly attributable to blood cell metabolism when glycolysis is not rapidly inhibited or blood cells cannot be rapidly separated from plasma. Although glycolysis inhibitors such as sodium fluoride (NaF) in combination with potassium oxalate (KOx) are currently used for overcoming this drawback, their efficacy for stabilizing blood glucose is seemingly limited, and probably lower than that of newer additives such as the citrate buffer. Therefore, we performed a critical analysis of the current scientific literature aimed to generate evidence-based information about the advantages of using citrate buffer in blood tubes compared to the more conventional NaF additive. The results of our systematic overview of the literature show that citrate blood tubes represent a considerable step forward in achieving more accurate and reliable plasma glucose measurements, thereby limiting the risk of underdiagnosing diabetes due to spurious decrease of glucose concentration in uncentrifuged blood specimens, ensuring higher stability of glucose levels over time, while simultaneously producing less hemolysis compared to NaF blood tubes. Therefore, we suggest that the use of this new mixture should be encouraged for achieving a higher degree of accuracy and standardization of plasma glucose measurements.

Polyphenols and their effects on diabetes management: A review.

Background: Type 2 diabetes is a growing public health problem and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. The worldwide prevalence of type 2 diabetes is rising. Polyphenols, such as flavonoids, phenolic acid, and stilbens, are a large and heterogeneous group of phytochemicals in plant-based foods. In this review, we aimed at assessing the studies on polyphenols and diabetes management. Methods: A literature search in the PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, and ISI Web of Science databases was conducted to identify relevant studies published from 1986 to Jan 2017. Results: Several animal models and a limited number of human studies have revealed that polyphenols decrease hyperglycemia and improve acute insulin secretion and insulin sensitivity. The possible mechanisms include decrease in glucose absorption in the intestine, inhibition of carbohydrates digestion, stimulation of insulin secretion, modulation of glucose release from the liver, activation of insulin receptors and glucose uptake in insulin-sensitive tissues, modulation of intracellular signaling pathways, and gene expression. Conclusion: Growing evidence indicates that various dietary polyphenols may influence blood glucose at different levels and may also help control and prevent diabetes complication. However, we still need more clinical trials to determine the effects of polyphenols- rich foods, their effective dose, and mechanisms of their effects in managing diabetes.

Efficacy and safety of sotagliflozin in treating diabetes type 1

ABSTRACTIntroduction: Sotagliflozin is the first dual SGLT1/SGLT2 inhibitor developed for use in diabetes. Sotagliflozin blocks SGLT2 in the kidneys and SGLT1 in the intestines resulting in reduced early phase glucose absorption and increased blood levels of GLP-1 and PYY. Urinary glucose excretion is lower than with other agents as a result of decreased glucose absorption. The primary development effort to date has been in Type 1 diabetes.Areas covered: The published information on sotagliflozin is reviewed, along with the recent results of several pivotal Type 1 diabetes trials.Expert opinion: Sotagliflozin treatment lowers HbA1c and reduces glucose variability, with a trend to less hypoglycemic events. In the Type 1 trials, sotagliflozin treated individuals experienced DKA at a higher rate than placebo treated patients. An additional safety issue arises from the as yet unknown potential risks in women of child bearing potential in whom DKA is of utmost concern. The sotagliflozin development program has now been extended to trials in Type 2 diabetes, and long term studies will be needed to assess the benefits and risks of the agent in comparison to other currently marketed SGLT2 inhibitors.

Effect of Incorporating Stevia and Moringa in Cookies on Postprandial Glycemia, Appetite, Palatability, and Gastrointestinal Well-Being

ABSTRACTBackground: Medicinal plants including stevia and moringa constitute an important source of health-beneficial bioactive components, and hence their intake may beneficially modulate biomarkers of chronic diseases.Objective: The objective of the present study was to investigate the effect of incorporating stevia and moringa leaf powder in cookies on postprandial glycemia, appetite, palatability, and gastrointestinal well-being in humans.Method: In a randomized crossover design, 20 healthy subjects consumed 3 isocaloric test foods (each providing 50 g available carbohydrates) of control cookies (CC) made from 100% wheat flour, cookies containing stevia leaf powder (SC, 3% w/w), and cookies containing moringa leaf powder (MC, 5% w/w) as breakfast. Blood glucose and subjective appetite were measured at fasting and at 15, 30, 45, 60, 90, and 120 min after the consumption of the cookies. Palatability and gastrointestinal well-being were measured using standard questionnaires.Results: Compared to CC, MC resulted in a significant decrease in postprandial blood glucose concentration at 30 and 45 min (p = 0.002 and p = 0.003, respectively) and showed a tendency (p = 0.077) for lower blood glucose incremental area under the curve (iAUC). Subjects were significantly less hungry after SC and MC intake (p = 0.035 and p = 0.041, respectively) compared to CC. All the cookies were liked by the subjects without any reported gastrointestinal discomfort.Conclusion: The results showed that compared to CC, MC improved postprandial glycemia and reduced hunger, while SC reduced hunger only. Future studies are now warranted to explore the mechanisms responsible for these observed effects.

Postprandial glycaemic and appetite responses to cookies following in-corporation of Stevia and Moringa leaf powder

Background/objective: Medicinal plants including Stevia and Moringa constitute an important source of health-beneficial bioactive components and hence, their intake may beneficially modulate biomarkers of chronic diseases. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to investigate the effect of cookies incorporating stevia and Moringa leaf powder on postprandial glycaemia, appetite, palatability and gastrointestinal wellbeing in humans. Design and methods: In a randomized crossover design, twenty healthy subjects consumed three iso-caloric test foods (each providing 50 g available carbohydrates) of control cookies (CC), stevia leaf-containing cookies (SC) and Moringa leaf-containing cookies (MC) as breakfast. Blood glucose and subjective appetite were measured at fasting and over 2 hours after consumption of the cookies. Palatability and gastrointestinal wellbeing were measured using standard questionnaires. Results: Compared to CC, MC resulted in a significant decrease in postprandial blood glucose concentration at 30 and 45 min (P = 0.002 and P = 0.003, respectively) and showed a tendency (P = 0.077) for lower blood glucose incremental area under the curve (iAUC). Subjects were significantly less hungry after SC and MC intake (P= 0.035 and P= 0.041, respectively) compared to CC. In addition, the SC resulted in significantly (P = 0.037) lower hunger incremental area over the curve (iAOC) compared to CC. All the cookies were liked by the subjects without any reported gastrointestinal discomfort. Conclusion: In conclusion, the results showed that compared to CC, MC improved postprandial glycaemia and reduced hunger, while SC reduced hunger only. Future studies are now warranted to explore the mechanisms responsible for these observed effects.

NANOENCAPSULATION AUGMENTS RELEASE EFFICACY AND GLUCOSE TOLERANCE OF 14-DEOXY, 11, 12-DIDEHYDRO ANDROGRAPHOLIDE LOADED POLYCAPROLACTONE NANOPARTICLES IN STREPTOZOTOCIN-NICOTINAMIDE INDUCED TYPE 2 DIABETES

Objective: This study was designed to study the release efficacy and glucose tolerance of 14-deoxy, 11, 12-didehydroandrographolide loaded polycaprolactone nanoparticles in streptozotocin-nicotinamide induced type 2 diabetes.Methods: Biodegradable polymer based novel drug delivery systems had brought a considerable attention to improve therapeutic efficacy and bioavailability of various drugs. In this study, 14-deoxy-11, 12-didehydroandrographolide (sparingly water soluble) loaded polycaprolactone (nano-DDA) was synthesized using polyvinyl alcohol and tween20 as surfactants. MTT assay was performed to analyse the cytotoxicity of both the formulations on L6 myoblasts. Free DDA and nano-DDA were administered orally to the streptozotocin-nicotinamide induced experimental diabetic rats for 45d. Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was carried out at the end of the study. After one week washout period, animals were administered with free and nano-DDA and release efficacy of DDA from polymer matrix and concentration of glucose were analysed.Results: MTT assay revealed that nano-DDA prepared using tween-20 as a surfactant elicited cytotoxicity towards L6 myoblasts, whereas nano-DDA prepared using polyvinyl alcohol as a surfactant remained non-toxic till 10µM. OGTT studies revealed an initial increase of glucose at 30 min followed by a progressive decrease in the glucose level. In rat plasma, a gradual decrease in glucose level was observed up to 32h (139 mg/dl) for free DDA, whereas nano-DDA exhibited a major decrease in glucose concentration at 32h (115 mg/dl) which continued even after 48h (117 mg/dl).Conclusion: A slow and sustained release of DDA from the polymer matrix substantiated that nanoencapsulation enhanced the oral bioavailability of DDA which resulted in decreasing the concentration of glucose which could be due to the pronounced antihyperglycemic activity of nano-DDA over free DDA.