Rats 200-250g Research Articles

Effect of Diethyl Nitrosamine and Carbon Tetra Chloride Induced Hepatotoxicity in Obese Rats

Hepatotoxicity causes a very high mortality all over the world. Several hepatotoxins are responsible for the development of hepatotoxicity. This study aimed to evaluate the potential effect of Diethyl nitrosamine (DEN)/ Carbon tetra chloride (CCL4)-induced hepatotoxicity in obese rats. Forty male albino rats were divided equally into four groups; G1; control group, G2; DEN/ CCL4 group (IP injection of DEN (200 mg/kg Bwt) followed by weekly SC injection of CCL¬4 (3 mg/kg Bwt) for six weeks, G3; obese group (fed HFD) for 11 weeks & G4; DEN/ CCL4/ obese group (DEN/ CCL4 + obesity). Serum samples of all rats were analyzed for lipid profile and liver enzymes, ALP, total & direct albumin and alpha fetoprotein. Liver tissues were collected for analysis of oxidative stress markers, gene expression of Caspase-3 expression and histopathological examination. DEN/ CCL4 induced hepatotoxicity in G2 significantly increase serum lipid profile, liver enzymes, ALP, total & direct bilirubin, alpha-fetoprotein and liver MDA, meanwhile significantly decreased serum HDL-C, albumin, liver SOD, CAT, GSH and Caspase-3 expression when compared to control group. DEN /CCl4/ obese treated rats in G4 showed insignificantly changed lipid profile, while serum activities of ALT, ALP, as well as serum levels of total & direct bilirubin, alpha-fetoprotein, and Caspase-3 expression were significantly elevated, while AST, albumin and liver SOD were significantly decreased when compared with obese rats. This study highlights the ameliorative effects of obesity in delaying the progress of toxic effects of DEN / CCL4 on liver of obese rats.

Study the Effect of Lycium barbarum Polysaccharide on Bone and Thyroid Gland in Hyperlipidemic Healthy Male Albino Rats

The aim of the study was to determine the protective role of Lycium barbarum Polysaccharide against the development of osteoporosis and hypothyroidism induced by high cholesterol diet in male albino rats, 45 male albino rats were grouped into three sets. The first group (G1) was fed with normal diet and considered as a control group. The second group (G2) was fed 2% cholesterol-enriched diet for three months to induction of hypercholesterolemia, while The third group (G3) was fed 2% cholesterol-enriched diet +100mg/kg of Lycium barbarum Polysaccharide (LBP). Blood samples were withdrawn after starvation of the animals at night, after the end of three months, 5 ml of blood was withdrawn from the heart to measure the following parameters: concentration of total cholesterol (TC), High density lipoprotein (HDL), Low density lipoprotein (LDL), Very low density lipoprotein (VLDL), Triglyceride (TAG), Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP), phosphorus (p+), Calcium (Ca+), Parathyroid Hormone (PTH), Thyronine (T3), Thyroxin (T4) and Thyroid stimulating hormone Hormons(TSH). Rats in G2 had significantly greater levels of TC, TAG, LDL, and VLDL compared to G1, while the picture was an opposite direction in the levels of HDL. G2 rats had significantly greater levels of PTH, calcium and phosphorus, while ALP levels were significantly reduced compared to that observed in G1 rats. Levels of thyroid hormones (T3, and T4) were significantly decreased, while the TSH levels were significantly increased in the G2 rats compared to that of G1 rats. Rats in group 3 did not reveal any significant changes in all measured biomarkers comparing to that values measured in G1. It is concluded from the present study that hyperlipidemia increases osteoporosis risk and causes thyroid dysfunctions and confirms the protective role of the Lycium barbarum Polysaccharide against osteoporosis risk and maintain thyroid dysfunctions in male albino rats.

Nephrotoxic Effect of Antipsychotic Drug Risperidone: Protective Role Extract of Urtica dioica leaf in Male Stressed Rats

This research was designed to investigate the ameliorative effect of Urtica dioica leaf extract on the kidney function against Risperidone. Thirty adult male rats were randomly divided to 3 equal group and handles as follows for 4th weeks: control group were administered tap water group G1; group G2 rats of this group had been administered risperidone 2 mg/kg orally only; group G3 rats of this group had been administered risperidone 2 mg/kg orally plus ethanolic extract of Urtica dioica (100 mg/kg). Blood sample were obtained at 15 and 30 days of the experiments for estimation of serum uric acid concentration, serum urea nitrogen concentration, serum creatinine concentration, serum peroxynitrite concentration. Significant increases in estimated parameters in group G2 (risperidone treated group). On the other hand, the results showed the beneficial effects of Urtica dioica leaf extract to improvement the previous parameters against risperidone (G3), through a significant decrease in concentrations. Histological section show atrophy and acute necrosis in renal tubules in group G2, while no clear pathological lesion in G3 group. Therefore, it could be conclude that Urtica dioica exert a protective action to alleviating the oxidative stress induced by risperidone stressed rats.

Application of tissue-engineered pericardial patch in rat models of myocardial infarction.

Myocardial infarction (MI) is a major cause of mortality and morbidity in industrialized societies. Myocardial tissue engineering is an alternative and promising approach for substituting injured myocardium through development and seeding of appropriate scaffolds. In this study, we investigated the efficacy of using an acellular pericardium to deliver autologous mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to the infarcted site for regeneration of the myocardium. MI was induced in two groups of rats; G1 or MI group, and G2 or patch-implanted group. In G2 group, rats had undergone transplantation of a pericardial patch which was previously seeded with adipose tissue derived MSCs. To evaluate the efficacy of the pericardial patches, biopsies were taken one month after transplantation. In order to evaluate the extent of regeneration, inflammation and fibrosis, histopathological investigations including hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), Sirius Red and trichrome staining were performed. In addition, immunohistochemical investigations by Desmin as well as CD68, CD45 and CD34 antibodies were performed. Furthermore, Tunnel assay was performed to detect the extent of apoptosis. H&E assessments of biopsies from the patch-implanted group confirmed presence of pre-seeded pericardium containing MSCs along with neo-vessels. Immunohistochemical assessments demonstrated higher number of CD34 positive cells and Desmin-positive cells in the patch implanted group (p < 0.05); these findings are suggestive of cardiomyocyte regeneration in G2 rats. This study demonstrates the advantages of application of natural acellular scaffolds as cell delivery devices and it emphasizes neovascularization following this approach. However, further investigations are required to analyze long-term cardiac function in recipients. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 106A: 2670-2678, 2018.

Examination of the effect of melatonin use before hysterosalpingography on ovarian follicle reserve in rats

Objective: To examine the effects of lipiodol, melatonin, and radiation used during hysterosalpingography (HSG) on rat ovarian follicle reserve. Materials and Methods: A total of 50 Wistar rats with regular estrous cycles were randomly divided into five groups. Group 1 was the control group. The other groups, X-ray was applied (G2), 0.1 ml lipiodol was applied to each uterine horn (G3), 20 mg/kg intraperitoneal melatonin application was followed by 0.1 ml lipiodol administration to each uterine horn after 15 minutes (G4), 20 mg/kg melatonin was administered to ligamentum suspensorium ovarii, followed by 0.1 ml lipiodol application to each uterine horn after 15 minutes (G5), respectively. The rats in G2, G3, G4, and G5 were exposed three times to whole body radiation. Then, all rats were re-opened and left oophorectomy was performed. Left ovarian samples were fixed in formaldehyde. Primordial, primary, secondary, and tertiary follicles were counted in the preparations, and all were added to calculate the ovarian follicle reserve. Results: Primordial, primary, and ovarian follicle reserves were found significantly lower in G2, in comparison to other groups. Atretic follicle values were significantly higher in G2 compared to G3, and in G3 compared to the other groups. Regression of angiogenesis within corpus luteum was found significantly lower in G2, compared to G3, and in G3 compared to other groups. All values in G1, G4, and G5 were similar. Conclusion: Use of lipiodol and melatonin during HSG procedure prevents the negative effects of radiation on ovarian follicle reserve.

Blueberry extract attenuates γ-radiation-induced hepatocyte damage by modulating oxidative stress and suppressing NF-κB in male rats.

Radiation exposure is known to produce many harmful effects in biological systems, and these effects are often mediated by oxygen free radicals. Because blueberries are rich in antioxidant compounds such as anthocyanins and phenolic acids, we divided forty adult rats into four treatment groups of 10 (G1–4) as follows: G1 rats were used as a control, G2 rats were irradiated with 8 Gy at 2 Gy/week at a dose rate of 0.5 Gy/min, G3 rats were administered blueberry extract (200 mg/kg) and G4 rats were administered blueberry extract during the same irradiation period. In subsequent determinations, γ-irradiated rats had increased levels of cholesterol, triglyceride, high density lipoprotein (HDL) and low density lipoprotein (LDL), and significantly elevated liver enzyme activities, including alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and total bilirubin. In contrast, significant reductions in albumin, total protein and globulin were observed, whereas gamma irradiation decreased activities of the antioxidant enzymes glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT), xanthine dehydrogenase (XDH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). We also observed incremental increases in DNA fragmentation percentages and histopathological changes in liver tissues. Serum pro-inflammatory cytokine levels (IL-6, IL-10 and TNF-α) were significantly elevated and hepatic NF-кB was upregulated. In G4 rats, treatments with blueberry extract restored liver pro-oxidant status, reduced cytokine levels, ameliorated histopathological parameters and reduced DNA damage. In conclusion, γ-radiation exerts toxic effects in the rat livers, and blueberry extract is protective against these.

Evaluation the hypolipidemic and antioxidant efficacy of diosgenin extracted from fenugreek seeds in experimentally induced oxidative stressed male rats

This study was conducted to assess the antioxidant status and hypolipidemic role of purified diosgenin extracted from fenugreek seeds in hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and atherogenic diet experimentally induced oxidative stress male rats. Hexane and chloroform were used for the extraction of diosgenin from ground fenugreek seeds. Purification of extracted fraction was carried out on Sephadex LH-20 column using ethyl acetate as eluent, homogenous symmetrical peak was obtained, and thin layer chromatography on silica gel confirmed that purified fraction is diosgenin in compression to standard diosgenin and the calculated Rf values. The antioxidant scavenging activity was carried out using 2, 2, 1 diphenyl- 1- picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay, the result showed that purified diosgenin has an antioxidant activity 13.68 μg/ml while the corresponding values for vitamin C and butylated hydroxyl toluene were 8.43 and 7.26 μg/ml respectively. Fifteen adult Albino male rats were randomly and equally divided into three groups, and treated for six weeks as follows; G1 group served as control, G2: Animals of this group were received drinking water containing 0.75% H2O2 and atherogenic diet, Group 3; Rats of this group were given drinking water containing 0.75% H2O2 and atherogenic diet plus 40 mg purified diosgenin/ kg B.W. dissolved in 0.5 ethyl acetate daily by gavages needle. Fasting blood samples were collected by cardiac puncture technique at 0, third and sixth weeks of experiment. The results revealed that rats in G2 exposed to oxidative stress (0.75% H2O2 plus atherogenic diet) showed a significant elevation (P&lt;0.05) in serum total cholesterol (TC), triacylglycerol (TAG), low density lipoprotein- cholesterol (LDL-C) as well as in malondialdehyde (MDA), and significant suppression in serum high density lipoprotein- cholesterol (HDL-C) and glutathione (GSH) concentrations in comparison to the animals in the first group (G1 group). Intubation of 40 mg/kg B.W. of purified diosgenin was caused a significant alteration in the lipid profile of the treated group (G3), manifested by significant reduction (P&lt;0.05) in serum TC, TAG, LDL-C and significant elevation in HDL-C. Antioxidant status also exhibits significant changes manifested by an elevation of serum GSH and reduction in MDA concentration in G3 group animals. This study has shown the significant role of diosgenin as hypolipidemic agent and its role in restores of the oxidative stress.

Could mesenchymal stem cell therapy help in the treatment of muscle damage caused by Bothrops alternatus venom?

ABSTRACT: The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) in the treatment of myonecrosis induced by Bothrops alternatus venom in rats. Seventy-five male adult Wistar rats were divided into three experimental groups. G1 and G2 were injected in the gastrocnemius muscle with 120μg of B. alternatus venom, while G3 received 200μL of PBS only. Three days after the venom injection, 12 rats from G1 were treated with 5.0 x 106 MSC in PBS, whereas G2 and G3 rats received PBS. Every three days, blood and muscle samples of five animals from each group were taken for serum biochemical and pathological analyses. Histological examinations showed more intense muscle lesions following MSC treatment, characterized by disorganization and loss of muscle fibers, with focal necrosis and inflammatory infiltration by mononuclear cells. In conclusion, the use of MSC for the treatment of local damage caused by inoculation of B. alternatus venom impaired muscle regeneration and interfered in the healing process.

Role of leptin and the leptin receptor in the pathogenesis of varicocele-induced testicular dysfunction.

The present study investigated the expression of leptin and its receptor in the left testis and hypothalamus of rats with varicocele and clarified their roles in the pathogenesis of varicocele-induced testicular dysfunction. A total of 40 male rats were divided randomly into four groups. Groups 1 (G1) and 3 (G3) underwent a sham operation. Groups 2 (G2) and 4 (G4) underwent operations to form a varicocele created by partial ligation of the left renal vein. G1 and G2 rats were euthanized 4 weeks after the operation while G3 and G4 rats were euthanized at 8 weeks. The expression of leptin and its receptor was analyzed by immunohistochemistry. The mRNA levels of leptin, its receptor, kisspeptin (KiSS-1), G-protein coupled receptor 54 (GPR54), gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) were measured by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Testicular spermatogenesis function and gonadal hormone levels were measured. Compared with G1 and G3, the expression of leptin and its receptor in rat testis was significantly higher in G2 and G4, respectively. Leptin expression was inversely associated with the number of sperm in the left epididymis, thickness of the seminiferous epithelium and the diameter of seminiferous tubules. The expression of leptin receptors in the hypothalamus of G2 and G4 was significantly increased compared with that in G1 and G3, respectively. The mRNA levels of KiSS-1, GPR54, GnRH, LH and FSH in G2 and G4 were significantly increased compared with that in G1 and G3, respectively. Serum testosterone levels in G2 and G4 rats were significantly lower than those in G1 and G3 rats, respectively. There was no significant difference between the serum levels of FSH, LH and leptin. These results suggest that leptin and its receptor may serve significant roles in the pathogenesis of varicocele-induced testicular dysfunction.

Effect of Feeding by Spirulina platensis and Kareish Cheese on Liver and Kidney Damage Induced by Lead Toxicity in Rats

Lead is considered a potential hazard for human and animal health. The present study was performed to evaluate chemical composition and mineral content of Spirulina platensis and Kareish cheese replace on hepatic and renal damage induced by chronic lead toxicity in Rats. Thirty adult female rats were randomly divided into five main groups (6 per each group). The G1 was kept as control (untreated group), G2 is lead intoxicated rats (2 g/L lead acetate in drinking water), G3 rats fed on Spirulina (0.3%) of diet plus lead acetate (2 g/L water), G4 rats fed on Kareish cheese plus 2 g/L lead acetate in drinking water and G5 rats fed on both Kareish cheese with Spirulina (0.3%) plus 2 g/L water lead acetate. Kareish cheese has high nutritive value due to its high content of protein, ash, minerals (calcium, phosphorous) and vitamins. Also Spirulina platensis have nutrition value of protein, fiber, fat and minerals. Results showed that lead acetate increased the activities of AST, ALT, urea and creatinine, and decreased the contents of glutathione in liver compared to control. Also, revealed marked elevation in liver function markers and toxic renal metabolites in lead intoxicated rats as well as severe hepatic and renal alterations with increased lead tissue content in these organs. The sole replace of Spirulina and kareish or their combination were markedly improved both hepatic and renal functions, reduced their lead content and markedly ameliorated the hepatic and renal pathology induced by lead intoxication.

Salvadora persica leaf aqueous extract attenuates hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia in alloxan induced diabetic male rats

Background: Herbal medicine has been widely used in controlling diabetes and obesity for avoiding their complications. Objectives: The anti-diabetic, antioxidant and anti-lipidemic activity of Salvadora persica leaf aqueous extract was tested in alloxan induced diabetic male rats. Methods: 24 male rats were divided into 4 groups; negative control (G1), diabetic positive control (G2) and two diabetic groups (G3 and G4) supplemented with aqueous extract of S. persica at a dose of 100 and 200 mg/0.5 ml water/100 g body weight, respectively for 28 d. Results: The positive control diabetic group showed increase in blood sugar, liver enzyme activity, kidney parameters, lipid peroxidation, immunoglobulines, total cholesterol, triglycerides, low density lipoprotein, very low density lipoproteins and decrease in alpha amylase, antioxidants and high density lipoproteins. Treating the diabetic rats in G3 and G4 with S. persica leaf aqueous extract nearly restored all biochemical and histological changes nearly to the normal as in the control negative. Conclusion: S. persica leaf aqueous extract has hypoglycaemic, antioxidant and hypolipidemic activity in alloxan induced diabetic male rats. It restored all biochemical parameters and the injured kidney, liver and pancreas tissues nearly to the normal as in the negative control group. The high dose of S. persica leaf aqueous extract was more effective than the low dose.

MP23-01 HUMAN URINE-DERIVED STEM CELLS LESSEN INFLAMMATION AND FIBROSIS WITHIN KIDNEY TISSUE IN A RODENT MODEL OF AGING-RELATED RENAL INSUFFICIENCY

You have accessJournal of UrologyInfections/Inflammation/Cystic Disease of the Genitourinary Tract: Kidney & Bladder II1 Apr 2017MP23-01 HUMAN URINE-DERIVED STEM CELLS LESSEN INFLAMMATION AND FIBROSIS WITHIN KIDNEY TISSUE IN A RODENT MODEL OF AGING-RELATED RENAL INSUFFICIENCY Ting Long, Yaodong Jiang, Hua Shi, Liren Zhong, Deying Zhang, Wei Li, Yong Zhang, Dong Chen, Yan Jiao, Debra Diz, and Yuanyuan Zhang Ting LongTing Long More articles by this author , Yaodong JiangYaodong Jiang More articles by this author , Hua ShiHua Shi More articles by this author , Liren ZhongLiren Zhong More articles by this author , Deying ZhangDeying Zhang More articles by this author , Wei LiWei Li More articles by this author , Yong ZhangYong Zhang More articles by this author , Dong ChenDong Chen More articles by this author , Yan JiaoYan Jiao More articles by this author , Debra DizDebra Diz More articles by this author , and Yuanyuan ZhangYuanyuan Zhang More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1016/j.juro.2017.02.729AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookTwitterLinked InEmail INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES Kidney function declines with age; older adults have renal function only 50-60% that of healthy young people. Most older patients have some degree of impaired renal function after renal surgery. Cell-based therapy is a promising alternative method to restore renal function in the treatment of chronic renal insufficiency. The goal of this study is to determine whether human urine-derived stem cells (USCs) can prompt renal tissue remolding in a rodent model of age-related kidney insufficiency. METHODS Urine samples were obtained from healthy men (n=6, 28-35 years old). USCs were isolated and expanded at passage 5. Eighteen male SD rats (50-62 week old) with renal insufficiency (increased levels of urine protein and serum creatinine) were divided into 3 groups (G). G1, animals received 5 intravenous cell implantations of 2 x106 cells/0.2 ml serum-free medium /rat/time period weekly; G2, as in G1 but intraperitoneally delivered; G3, as in G1 but serum-free medium alone. Healthy male SD rats at the same age were controls. RESULTS Cultured USCs secreted >20 kinds of trophic factors, including high levels of matrix metallopeptidase 9, which is involved in extracellular matrix degradation. Histologic and immunocytochemical staining showed that ED1 (inflammatory marker), alpha-smooth muscle actin (myofibroblast marker), and collagen deposition were significantly less within the medulla or cortex in rats with renal insufficiency vs. controls. G1 and G2 rats showed significantly inhibited inflammation and fibrosis in interstitial tissue, and reduced collagen deposits around renal vessels and the basement membrane of renal tubule and glomerular tissue, compared to G3. CONCLUSIONS Renal fibrosis is potentially reversible and therapeutic use of USCs can reverse specifically targeted decrease of influx of inflammatory macrophages, interstitial fibrosis formation and collagen deposition through their paracrine effects. Implantation of USCs has potential in the prevention and treatment of renal insufficiency. © 2017FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 197Issue 4SApril 2017Page: e293 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2017MetricsAuthor Information Ting Long More articles by this author Yaodong Jiang More articles by this author Hua Shi More articles by this author Liren Zhong More articles by this author Deying Zhang More articles by this author Wei Li More articles by this author Yong Zhang More articles by this author Dong Chen More articles by this author Yan Jiao More articles by this author Debra Diz More articles by this author Yuanyuan Zhang More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement Advertisement PDF downloadLoading ...

Green Tea Induced Cellular Proliferation and the Expression of Transforming Growth Factor-β1 in the Jejunal Mucosa of Fasting Rats

Objective: The aim of this study was to understand whether or not the protective effect of green tea after fasting-induced damage in the jejunal mucosa of rat is dependent on cell proliferation and the stimulation of specific growth factors. Materials and Methods: Sixty adult male Wistar rats were used in this study. The animals were divided randomly into 5 groups, with 12 in each group (G1-5). The animals in G1 (control group) were fed a rat chow diet and water ad libitum. The animals in G2 (fasting group) were fasted for 3 days. The animals in the G3, G4, and G5 groups were fasted for 3 days as G2, but were given water (G3), green tea (G4), or a vitamin E (G5) solution, respectively, for another 7 days. The animals were euthanized, and the jejunum was removed and processed for histological and immunohistochemical analysis. Results: Compared to the G3 group, the jejunal mucosa of G4 rats showed a 70.6% higher level (p < 0.001) of expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen and 98% higher level (p = 0.0001) of the expression of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), whereas the level of fibroblast growth factor-1 (FGF-1) and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) expression was 22 and 11% lower, respectively, in G4 animals as compared to G3 rats. These differences in the expression of FGF-1 and IGF-1 in G4 animals were not statistically significant. Conclusion: In this study, green tea repaired the fasting-induced damage in the jejunal mucosa of rats, mainly by inducing a significant expression of TGF-β1 in the jejunal mucosa.

Protective effects of vitamin C and vitamin E against hysterosalpingography-induced epithelial degeneration and proliferation in rat endometrium.

AimThe aim of this study was to examine the protective effects of vitamin C (VC) and vitamin E (VE) against hysterosalpingography (HSG)-induced epithelial degeneration and proliferation in rat endometrium.Materials and methodsA total of 28 female Wistar albino rats were randomized into four groups: G1 (n=7; abdomen was opened and closed), G2 (n=7; 0.1 mL Lipiodol [ethiodized oil] was administered to each uterine horn in conjunction with X-ray irradiation), G3 (n=7; 50 mg/kg of intraperitoneal (ip) VC was administered, followed by the administration of 0.1 mL of ethiodized oil into the uterine horns after 15 minutes), and G4 (n=7; 50 mg/kg of ip VE was administered, followed by the administration of 0.1 mL of ethiodized oil into the uterine horns after 15 minutes). After abdominal closure, rats in G2, G3 and G4 groups were exposed to whole-body X-irradiation three times with 2-minute intervals at a total dose of 15–20 mrad. Three hours after exposure, abdominal cavities of all the rats were reopened and uterine horns were removed. The right uterine horns were embedded into paraffin blocks after fixing in 10% formaldehyde for histopathological and immunohistochemical examination. Uterine horns on the other side were rapidly excised and stored at −80°C for the examination of expression of microRNAs (miRNAs) and oxidant, antioxidant, apoptotic and antiapoptotic gene expression using real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) method.ResultsNo differences were observed in terms of expression of miRNAs and oxidant, antioxidant, apoptotic and anti-apoptotic gene expression between the study groups. Congestion, epithelial degeneration and malondialdehyde immunoreactivity were significantly lower in G3 and G4 groups than in G2 group; no differences were observed between G1, G3 and G4 groups. Ki-67 immunoreactivity score was significantly higher in G2 group when compared with G1, G3 and G4 groups. Caspase-3 immunoreactivity was not statistically different between the groups.ConclusionVC and VE may confer cellular protection against radiation injury induced by HSG in endometrial epithelium.

Effect of Age, Estrogen Status, and Late-Life GPER Activation on Cardiac Structure and Function in the Fischer344×Brown Norway Female Rat.

Age-associated changes in cardiac structure and function, together with estrogen loss, contribute to the progression of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction in older women. To investigate the effects of aging and estrogen loss on the development of its precursor, asymptomatic left ventricular diastolic dysfunction, echocardiograms were performed in 10 middle-aged (20 months) and 30 old-aged (30 months) female Fischer344×Brown-Norway rats, 4 and 8 weeks after ovariectomy (OVX) and sham procedures (gonads left intact). The cardioprotective potential of administering chronic G1, the selective agonist to the new G-protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER), was further evaluated in old rats (Old-OVX+G1) versus age-matched, vehicle-treated OVX and gonadal intact rats. Advanced age and estrogen loss led to decreases in myocardial relaxation and elevations in filling pressure, in part, due to reductions in phosphorylated phospholamban and increases in cardiac collagen deposition. Eight weeks of G-protein-coupled estrogen receptor activation in Old-OVX+G1 rats reversed the adverse effects of age and estrogen loss on myocardial relaxation through increases in sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ ATPase expression and reductions in interstitial fibrosis. These findings may explain the preponderance of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction in older postmenopausal women and provide a promising, late-life therapeutic target to reverse or halt the progression of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction.

Artichoke ( Cynara scolymus L.) Leaves and Heads Extracts as Hypoglycemic and Hypocholesterolemic in Rats

Artichoke (Cynara scolymus L., Asteraceae family), an edible vegetable from the Mediterranean area, is a good source of phenolic compounds. Two varieties of artichoke were used in this study Green Globe (G) and Violet (V). Five major active phenolic compounds were identified into the aqueous methanolic extracts of artichoke leaves and heads. These compounds were identified as Chlorogenic acid, Cynarin, 1, 5-di-o-Caffeoylquinic, luteolin and apigenin. On the other hand, the artichoke aqueous leaves extract (ALE) and aqueous heads extracts (AHE) for the two varieties were used as hypoglycemic and hypocholesterolemic experiments by using albino rats. ALE was used in the concentration of (1.5 g/kg/day) for the two varieties. AHE was used in two different concentrations (1.5 and 3 g/kg/day). Rats were administrated orally by these different concentrations. Results show the effect of ALE and AHE extracts on the glucose level of diabetic rats. The superior effect was with G4 (Group No. 4) rats administrated 1.5 g LEG/kg/day (Leaves Extract of Green Globe). On the other hand results of the influence of artichoke leaves and heads as hypocholesterolemic action was in a positive way on the level of total cholesterol and reduced LDL and triglycerides levels and increased the level of glutathione peroxides, meanwhile it reduced the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) in rats serum. G3 (Group No. 3) [HFD (high fat diet) +1%cholesterol+1.5g LEG/kg/day] recorded the best results as hypocholesterolemic effect which could be attributed to their phenolic content. Our results indicated that, artichoke especially leaves extract of Green Globe (LEG) has good action as hypoglycemic and hypocholesterolemic.

Effect of hesperetin on chaperone activity in selenite-induced cataract.

Background. Chaperone activity of α-crystallin in the lens works to prevent protein aggregation and is important to maintain the lens transparency. This study evaluated the effect of hesperetin on lens chaperone activity in selenite-induced cataracts. Methodology. Thirteen-day-old rats were divided into four groups. Animals were given hesperetin (groups G2 and G4) or vehicle (G1 and G3) on Days 0, 1, and 2. Rats in G3 and G4 were administered selenite subcutaneously 4 hours after the first hesperetin injection. On Days 2, 4, and 6, cataract grades were evaluated using slit-lamp biomicroscopy. The amount of a-crystallin and chaperone activity in water-soluble fraction were measured after animals sacrificed. Results. G3 on day 4 had developed significant cataract, as an average cataract grading of 4.6 ± 0.2. In contrast, G4 had less severe central opacities and lower stage cataracts than G3, as an average cataract grading of 2.4 ± 0.4. The a-crystallin levels in G3 lenses were lower than in G1, but the same as G4. Additionally, chaperone activity was weaker in G3 lenses than G1, but the same as in G4. Conclusions. Our results suggest that hesperetin can prevent the decreasing lens chaperone activity and a-crystallin water solubility by administered of selenite.

Gene expression changes in the rat frontal cortex caused by sex steroid hormones

Event Abstract Back to Event Gene expression changes in the rat frontal cortex caused by sex steroid hormones Andrea Gogos1*, Madhara Udawela1, Jeehae Sun1, Brian Dean1 and Elizabeth Scarr1 1 Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Biological Psychiatry and Mental Health Division, Australia Growing evidence supports the notion that sex steroids, particularly oestrogen, play an important role in psychiatric disorders. The impact of oestrogen on gene expression in the frontal cortex, a region particularly affected in psychiatric disorders, is unknown. This study aimed to identify alterations in gene expression caused by sex steroid hormone removal and oestrogen treatment. Adult female Sprague-Dawley rats were either intact (sham-operated), ovariectomised, or ovariectomised and treated with 17b-oestradiol for 4 weeks. Frontal cortical RNA was extracted and hybridised to an Agilent SurePrint G3 Rat Gene Expression microarray. Using JMP Genomics, expression data was analysed to identify genes with different expression profiles. These genes were imported into Ingenuity Pathway Analysis to identify pathways affected by ovariectomy and/or oestrogen treatment. Ovariectomy significantly altered the expression profiles of 145 genes, while oestrogen treatment altered the expression profiles of 332 genes. While there was some overlap in altered expression profiles between the ovariectomised animals and those receiving oestrogen, these results highlight that removal of sex steroids by ovariectomy substantially differs from oestrogen treatment. These data suggest that the effects of oestrogen on gene expression will have profound and wide-ranging effects in the frontal cortex, supporting the concept that sex steroids play a role on modulating pathways associated with schizophrenia. Keywords: Gene Expression, Schizophrenia, Steroids, neuropsychiatric disorders, Oestrogen Conference: 14th Meeting of the Asian-Pacific Society for Neurochemistry, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, 27 Aug - 30 Aug, 2016. Presentation Type: YIC02: Young Investigator Colloquium 2 Topic: 14th Meeting of the Asian-Pacific Society for Neurochemistry Citation: Gogos A, Udawela M, Sun J, Dean B and Scarr E (2016). Gene expression changes in the rat frontal cortex caused by sex steroid hormones. Conference Abstract: 14th Meeting of the Asian-Pacific Society for Neurochemistry. doi: 10.3389/conf.fncel.2016.36.00057 Copyright: The abstracts in this collection have not been subject to any Frontiers peer review or checks, and are not endorsed by Frontiers. They are made available through the Frontiers publishing platform as a service to conference organizers and presenters. The copyright in the individual abstracts is owned by the author of each abstract or his/her employer unless otherwise stated. Each abstract, as well as the collection of abstracts, are published under a Creative Commons CC-BY 4.0 (attribution) licence (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) and may thus be reproduced, translated, adapted and be the subject of derivative works provided the authors and Frontiers are attributed. For Frontiers’ terms and conditions please see https://www.frontiersin.org/legal/terms-and-conditions. Received: 04 Aug 2016; Published Online: 11 Aug 2016. * Correspondence: Dr. Andrea Gogos, Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Biological Psychiatry and Mental Health Division, Parkville, VIC, Australia, andrea.gogos@florey.edu.au Login Required This action requires you to be registered with Frontiers and logged in. To register or login click here. Abstract Info Abstract The Authors in Frontiers Andrea Gogos Madhara Udawela Jeehae Sun Brian Dean Elizabeth Scarr Google Andrea Gogos Madhara Udawela Jeehae Sun Brian Dean Elizabeth Scarr Google Scholar Andrea Gogos Madhara Udawela Jeehae Sun Brian Dean Elizabeth Scarr PubMed Andrea Gogos Madhara Udawela Jeehae Sun Brian Dean Elizabeth Scarr Related Article in Frontiers Google Scholar PubMed Abstract Close Back to top Javascript is disabled. Please enable Javascript in your browser settings in order to see all the content on this page.

Influence of training in the dark or light phase on physiologic and metabolic parameters of Wistar rats submitted to aerobic exercise

Light and dark phase training may influences rodents’ physiologic parameters because these animals have nocturnal habits. Thus, we verify the effects of the training in different photoperiods on metabolism and corporal composition of rats. Eighteen rats were divided into three groups – G1: non-trained; G2: trained in the light phase; G3: trained in the dark phase. Rats were allowed to swim for 60 min, five times per week during six weeks. Trained animals presented a smaller weight gain and fat percentage in carcass. Rats of G3 increased gastrocnemius relative weight. The adipocyte diameter of G3 rats was smaller than the other groups. The levels of the total cholesterol, low-density proteins, and triacylglycerols were decreased in animals of G2 while the glycemia was increased. Training in light phase provided more alterations in the blood biochemical profile while the training in the dark increased the gastrocnemius weight and decreased the diameter of the adipocyte.

Dose-dependency of clonidine's effects in ascitic cirrhotic rats: comparison with α1-adrenergic agonist midodrine.

Sympathetic nervous system (SNS) activation decreases response to diuretics, but both α1-adrenoceptor agonists and sympatholytic α2-adrenoceptor agonists are recommended in the management of ascitic cirrhosis. We intend to compare the effects of increasing doses of clonidine (α2-agonist) vs. midodrine (α1-agonist) in advanced cirrhosis. Renal function, mean arterial pressure (MAP), and hormonal status were measured in rats with ascitic cirrhosis due to 13-week CCl(4) administration (groups G1-G5), in control rats (Gc), and in rats with ascitic cirrhosis untreated (G6) or treated with daily diuretics (0.5 mg/kg furosemide plus 2 mg/kg K(+) -canrenoate during the 11(th) -13(th) weeks of CCl(4)) (G7). G1-G5 cirrhotic rats received daily, during the 11(th)-13(th) CCl(4) weeks: clonidine 0.3 μg only (G1), diuretics + clonidine 0.2 (G2), 0.5 (G3) or 1 μg (G4), and diuretics + midodrine 1 mg/kg b.w. (G5). Cirrhotic rats in G1 or G2 had higher glomerular filtration rate, renal plasma flow and natriuresis than cirrhotic rats treated with diuretics (G7) (all P < 0.05). The addition of clonidine 0.2 μg to diuretics (G2 vs. G7) reduced serum norepinephrine (169 ± 71 ng/L vs. 523 ± 88 ng/L) and plasma renin activity (12 ± 3 ng/ml/h vs. 25 ± 5 ng/ml/h) (all P < 0.05). Midodrine did not improve the renal performance in ascitic rats treated with diuretics. In comparison to absolute cirrhotic controls (G6), MAP was lower in G4 and higher in G5 (all P < 0.05). Low-dose α2-agonists improve natriuresis and reduce SNS function and hyper-aldosteronism without affecting arterial pressure in experimental ascitic cirrhosis treated with diuretics.