Gastric Intubation Research Articles

Prenatal exposure to di-n-butyl phthalate promotes RIPK1-regulated necroptosis of uroepithelial cells and induces hypospadias through the epithelial-mesenchymal transition process in newborn male rats

Maternal exposure to di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP) has been linked to the induction of hypospadias; however, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Necroptosis is reported to be implicated in developmental malformations. This study aimed to investigate the underlying mechanism of necroptosis in the development of hypospadias. DBP was dissolved in corn oil, and pregnant rats were administered a precisely measured dose of DBP (750mg/kg/day) via gastric intubation from gestation day 14 to 18. Control rats received only corn oil. The day of birth was considered postnatal day (PND) 1. Male hypospadias rats were identified on PND 7. Genital tubercle tissues were collected and stored at −80°C for subsequent PCR analysis, cryopreserved in liquid nitrogen for western blot, or fixed in formalin for immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining. IHC staining and western blot analysis revealed increased expression of RIPK1 and necroptosis markers in genital tubercle (GT) tissue compared to the control group. Additionally, higher levels of EMT and impaired androgen receptor expression were observed in GT tissue. Exposure to increased DBP concentrations in rat primary uroepithelial cells (PUCs) led to elevated ROS production. Necroptosis markers and EMT expression levels were upregulated in PUCs following DBP incubation. Notably, treatment with DBP combined with necrostatin-1, a necroptosis inhibitor, reduced the expression of EMT markers and ROS production compared to DBP treatment alone. In vitro studies further revealed that DBP-induced necroptosis promoted the degradation of E-cadherin through the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway in PUCs. Our findings suggest that maternal exposure to DBP promotes necroptosis in uroepithelial cells by elevating ROS level and EMT status. Thus, necroptosis may play an essential role in the development of hypospadias.

AGE-DEPENDENCE OF BIOCHEMICAL MANIFESTATIONS OF HEPATOTOXICINJURY IN RAT EXPOSED TO XENOBIOTICS OF VARIOUS GENESIS

Currently, the problem of liver diseases against the backdrop of the toxic effects of medicinal and industrial (herbicides) xenobiotics on the body is becoming increasingly relevant. The activation of compensatory mechanisms in response to the action of toxic agents –acetaminophen and/or diquat is closely related to age-specific features. Heightened focus on acetaminophen-induced injury is linked to the widespread use of this medication as an analgesic and antipyretic during pandemics of infectious and inflammatory diseases, especially under the conditions of warfare in Ukraine. In return, the widespread use of the herbicide diquat is accompanied by an increase in the registration of cases of diquat -induced acute poisoning. The aim of study was to evaluation the biochemical parameters of the functional state of the liver of different-aged rats under conditions of acetaminophen-and diquat-induced toxic injury. Animals were divided into three age groups: adolescent (60 days), reproductive (150 days), and mature age rats (360 days). Acute toxic injury by acetaminophen was modeled by its oral administration through gastric intubation at a daily dose of 1250 mg/kg of the animal's body weight during the last 2 days of the experiment. Acute toxic damage by diquat was modeled by a single intragastric administration using a probe at a dose of 115.5 mg/kg of the animal's body weight. The functional state of the liver was assessed on an automatic biochemical analyzer NTI Biochem FC-120.Acetaminophen intoxication led to an increase in the absolute liver mass indicator, organ index, changes in the macroscopic structure of the organ, increased serum activities of ALT and AST, total LDH, and a decrease in the De Ritis ratio amidst increased activities of ALP, GGT, and levels of total and indirect bilirubin in all age groups compared to the control. The most significant changes were observed in mature age animals (increase in ALT activity by 76%, AST by 56%, ALP by 51%, GGT by 51%, and a decrease in the De Ritis ratio by 47%). Under conditionsof diquat-induced toxic injury, a slightly different trend and degree in manifestation of established changes are observed. A more pronounced hepatotoxic effect was registered in adolescent animals, manifested by the maximum increase in absolute liver mass by 26%, ALT activity by 71%, AST by 47%, ALP by 50%, Bili-T level by 69%. No statistically significant differences compared to the control and APAP-induced injury in the activity of total LDH and GGT upon administration of toxic doses of the herbicide diquat regardless of age category were observed.Based on the experimental results, an age-related multidirectionality in the adverse effects of the medicinal xenobiotic acetaminophen and the industrial xenobiotic diquat on indicators of the morpho-functional state of the liver is observed. The most sensitive age group of animals to toxic injury by acetaminophen are rats of 360 days of age, while for diquat –60 days of age

Colic incidence, risk factors, and therapeutic management in a working horse population in Tuban, Indonesia.

Colic is the primary problem affecting equestrian care worldwide. The primary cause of colic is digestive diseases; however, they can also affect organs from different systems in the abdominal region. In addition to a prior history of the disease and its treatment, risk factors may be assessed to determine the etiology of the disease in horses without or with a history of colic. This study aimed to present a summary of the incidence, risk factors, and medical procedures for colic in horses. Based on owner reports, 223 horses in Tuban, Indonesia, suspected of having colic were investigated. During the investigation of clinical parameters, investigators went door-to-door with interested horse owners to gather information about potential risk factors related to equine colic. Information on horses diagnosed with colic was obtained from the medical records of treatment. A Chi-square test was used to investigate the potential association between the risk factors, medical protocol, and the outcome of colic in horses. Of the 187 cases, spasmodic colic was the most common (48.13%), but 17 (9.09%) had no definitive diagnosis. Poor body condition scores (χ2 = 58.73; p < 0.001), wheat bran feeding (χ2 = 26.79; p < 0.001), concentrate (χ2 = 10.66; p < 0.01), less access to water (χ2 = 128.24; p < 0.001), recurrence of colic (χ2 = 85.64; p < 0.001), no deworming program (χ2 = 54.76; p < 0.001), the presence of gastrointestinal parasites (χ2 = 56.79; p < 0.001), stressed physical activity (χ2 = 28.53; p < 0.001), and summer season (χ2 = 7.83; p < 0.01) were the risk factors for colic. We further reported that 185 (98.93%) patients who received the following medical interventions recovered: injection of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs was necessary, Vitamin B complex (χ2 = 39.98; p < 0.001), fluid therapy (χ2 = 92.99; p < 0.001), and gastric intubation (χ2 = 4.09; p < 0.05). The importance of colic was demonstrated in 187 (83.86%) of the 223 horses investigated in Tuban, Indonesia, documented. In this study, recommendations for medical procedures when colic risk factors have been determined are presented.

Hepatic P53 upregulation and the genotoxic potential of acesulfame-K treatment in rats with a special emphasis on in vitro lymphocyte and macrophage activity testing.

Acesulfame-k (Ace-k) is a widely used artificial sweetener in various products, and long-term cumulative and multisource exposure is possible despite inadequate toxicological data confirming its safety. Ninety male rats were divided into two main groups according to their body weight into immature and mature rats. Each group was subdivided into 3 subgroups: control untreated, 30 and 90mg/kg b. w of Ace-k via gastric intubation. The treatment was performed daily 5days per week for 12weeks. At the end of the experimental period, blood samples were collected for in vitro testing of lymphocyte proliferation rate, comet assay, and macrophage activity about nitric oxide (NO) production. In addition, the collection of liver specimens was performed for P53 gene expression and histopathological evaluation. The results revealed that Ace-k induced modulation in lymphocyte proliferation rate and affected the production of NO by macrophages while increasing in tail moment in a dose-dependent manner that varied among different age groups. The upregulation of P53 in the liver was correlated with increased polyploidization and necro apoptotic reaction and various histopathological hepatic alterations. The present data revealed that chronic treatment of rats with Ace-k affects lymphocyte proliferation and macrophage activity in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, the genotoxic and hepatotoxic potential of Ace-k were confirmed.

Protective Effect of Methanolic Extract of Tamarindus Indica Leaves in Ethanol-Induced Esophageal Ulcer in Adult Wistar Rats

Tamarind (Tamarindus indica L.) possess anti-ulceration, wound healing, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic properties. This makes it useful in the treatment of various clinical challenges including gastrointestinal tract diseases. The aim of this study was to determine the protective effect of methanolic extract of Tamarindus indica leaves on esophageal ulcers in adult Wistar rats. Twelve rats (12) with average body weights of 130 ± 20 grams (g) were divided into four groups (A, B, C and D) (n=4). Group A (control) received 0.5 ml/kg body weight (bw) of distilled water, Group B received 0.5 ml/kg bw of 80% ethanol, Group C (Low dose) received 200 mg/kg of methanolic extract of Tamarindus indica leaves + 0.5ml/kg of 80% Ethanol and Group D (High dose) received 300 mg/kg of methanolic extract of Tamarindus indica leaves + 0.5ml/kg of 80% Ethanol. All administrations were done via gastric intubation for 6 days. At the end of the experimental period sections of the esophagus were collected for histological studies. The group administered 0.5ml/kg of 80% ethanol when compared with the control group, showed ulceration along the surface margin of mucosal layers and damage to submucosal glands. The group administered high and low doses of methanolic extract of Tamarindus indica leaves + 0.5ml/kg of 80% ethanol when compared with the control group, revealed an intact histoarchitecture. METL was protective in the ethanol induced esophageal ulceration.

Insights into the epidemiology, risk factors, and clinical outcomes of carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii infections in critically ill children.

Carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB) has become a leading cause of nosocomial infections with an increasing impact on critically ill patients, yet there is limited data on contributing factors. This study was aim to evaluate the prevalence and risk factors, and clinical outcomes of CRAB infections among critically ill children in a tertiary university teaching hospital in China. From January 2016 to December 2021, all children diagnosed with nosocomial Acinetobacter baumannii (A. baumannii) infections in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) were identified through the computerized microbiology laboratory databases. Among them, children suffering from CRAB infection were designated as a case group, while children with carbapenem susceptible A. baumannii (CSAB) infection were assigned to a control group. This retrospective case-control study was based on two groups of patients to determine potential clinical factors contributing to CRAB infection and death among critically ill children via univariate and multivariate analyses. During the 6-year study period, a total of 372 episodes of nosocomial A. baumannii infection in the PICU were eligible and included in the study. These isolates displayed moderate or high rates of resistance to all tested antimicrobials except colistin. The overall prevalence of CRAB and MDRAB (multidrug-resistant A. baumannii) was 78.0% and 80.9%, respectively. Several risk factors found to significantly increase CRAB infection included receiving invasive operation (OR = 9.412, p = 0.001), gastric intubation (OR = 2.478, p = 0.026), prior carbapenems exposure (OR = 2.543, p = 0.003), severe pneumonia (OR = 3.235, p = 0.001), and hemoglobin <110g/L (OR = 3.049, p = 0.005). Of 372 patients with CRAB infection, the mortality rate was 30.9% (115/372) and mortality did not differ between children with CRAB and CSAB infections. Septic shock (OR = 2.992, p = 0.001), AST > 46U/L (OR = 2.015, p = 0.005), bone marrow aspiration (OR = 2.704, p = 0.008), lymphocyte <20 % (OR = 1.992, p = 0.006) and age (OR = 1.094, p = 0.002) were independent risk factors for the death of A. baumanni infection. This study highlights considerable incidence rate and remarkable mortality of children with A. baumanni (especially CRAB) infections, and identifies age-specific risk factors for CRAB infection and mortality in critically ill children. These risk factors should be taken into account in pediatric hospitals in order to establish early intervention and rational treatment to improve clinical outcomes.

Incidence, risk factors, and therapeutic management of equine colic in Lamongan, Indonesia.

Colic is among the common health issues in equine health management. Gastrointestinal (GI) disorders are the most frequent causes of colic, but dysfunction of other organs and systems inside the abdominal cavity may also contribute. Therefore, it is crucial to identify risk factors for colic of specific etiologies. This study aimed to examine the incidence, risk factors, and best therapeutic management practices for horses with colic. A cohort of 256 horses living in Lamongan, East Java, Indonesia, was randomly recruited based on reports of colic symptoms by owners. Diagnosis and treatment were then conducted with the help of owners. Symptom profiles, risk factors, and therapeutic management strategies were analyzed by Chi-square tests. Of 256 horses enrolled, 217 (84%) were diagnosed with colic, of which 172 (79.3%) were cases of spasmodic colic, 33 (15.2%) of impaction colic, and 12 (5.5%) of intestinal obstruction/displacement. Male sex (χ2 = 16.27; p < 0.001), wheat bran feeding (χ2 = 15.49; p < 0.001), concentrate feed intake >5 kg/day (χ2 = 24.95; p < 0.001), no regular anthelmintic drug treatment (χ2 = 67.24; p < 0.001), GI parasite infection (χ2 = 65.11; p < 0.001), recurrent colic (χ2 = 91.09; p < 0.001), poor body condition score (χ2 = 71.81; p < 0.001), limited daily water access (χ2 = 127.92; p < 0.001), and indications of dental disease (χ2 = 9.03; p < 0.001) were identified as risk factors. The most effective therapies were gastric intubation (χ2 = 153.54; p < 0.001), Vitamin B complex injection (χ2 = 32.09; p < 0.001), fluid therapy (χ2 = 42.59; p < 0.001), and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug injection (NSAID). Colic is highly prevalent among horses in Lamongan, East Java, Indonesia. Proper diet, workload management, regular access to clean drinking water, and dental care can reduce colic risk. Recommended therapies include NSAID injection without other analgesics or spasmolytics, fluid therapy, Vitamin B complex, and gastric intubation.

Effects of Dried Leaves Extract of Spearmint (Mentha Spicata Labiateae) on Histology of Ovaries of Adult Female Wistar Albino Rats

Spearmin is a herb which has aromatic and medicinal properties. It is also used as flavoring agent in toothpaste, chewing gums, confectionaries and pharmaceutical preparation. The objective of this study was to evaluate the toxic effects of dried leaves extract of spearmint on gross and histological parameters of ovaries of adult female Wistar albino rats. Materials and Method: 60 female adult Wistar albino rats were taken in this study. After acclimatization rats divided into group A (Control), group B (Low dose experimental) and group C (High dose experimental) containing 20 rats each. Group A received distilled water whereas group B and C received dried leaves extract of spearmint in doses of 0.3 &amp; 0.6 g / kg / day respectively, through gastric intubation for 30 days. Blood sampling and body weight of all the three groups were taken at the start &amp; end of experiment. Ovaries of rats were dissected, observed for gross parameters and then prepared for histological examination. Result: All quantitative parameters had skewed distribution. The body weight of both experimental groups was decreased significantly (p – value &lt; 0.001). Paired ovarian weight was increased significantly (p – value &lt; 0.001). The ovaries of both experimental groups showed atrophied antral, Graffian follicles and corpora lutea significantly (p – value &lt; 0.001). The decreased levels of serum progesterone were also observed. Conclusion: Use of spearmint in adult female rats showed significant harmful effects on morphology and histology of ovaries, hence it is recommended that further research work should be carried out to evaluate its other toxic effects on different organs of body Keywords: Spearmin, Graffian follicles, Ovary, Leaf extract

Uptake of Dietary Coenzyme Q Supplement is Limited in Rats

Coenzyme Q is an important mitochondrial redox component and the only endogenously produced lipid-soluble antioxidant. Its tissue concentration decreases with aging and in a number of diseases; dietary supplementation of this lipid would fulfill important functions by counteracting coenzyme Q depletion. To investigate possible uptake, rats were administered 12 µmol coenzyme Q10/100 g body wt once daily by gastric intubation. The appearance of coenzyme Q10 in various tissues and blood after 6 h, 4 d or 8 d was studied. The control group of rats received rapeseed-soybean oil (the vehicle in the experimental group). Lipids were extracted with petroleum ethermethanol, and the reduced and oxidized forms of coenzyme Q9 and Q10 were separated and quantified by reversed-phase HPLC. In the plasma, the total coenzyme Q concentration was doubled after 4 d of treatment. Coenzyme Q10 was also recovered in liver homogenates, where, as in the plasma, it was largely in the reduced form. Uptake into the spleen could be to a large extent accounted for by the blood content of this organ. No dietary coenzyme Q10 was recovered in the heart or kidney. The uptake in the whole body was 2–3% of the total dose. Coenzyme Q10 found in the liver was located mainly in the lysosomes. Dietary coenzyme Q10 did not influence the endogenous biosynthesis of coenzyme Q9. This is in contrast to dietary cholesterol, which down-regulates cholesterol biosynthesis. The dietary coenzyme Q10 level in the plasma decreased to -50% after 4 d. These results suggest that dietary coenzyme Q10 may play a role primarily in the blood and that no appreciable uptake occurs into tissues.

Para-Acetamidobenzoylglutamate Is a Suitable Indicator of Folate Catabolism in Rats

The amount of biologically active folate excreted in the urine corresponds to a small fraction of the recommended dietary allowance, suggesting that a large amount of folate is excreted as its catabolites. A strategy of assessing folate requirement by measuring the daily urinary levels of products of folate catabolism depends on the demonstration of an exclusive mechanism of breakdown as well as a suitable marker of the catabolic process. Rats were given [3H] and [14C]folic acid by gastric intubation daily for 10 d to simulate normal dietary intake of the vitamin. Total urine was collected throughout this period as well as for the following 10 d. Reverse-phase HPLC of the radiolabeled urinary products revealed the presence of a variety of intact folates as well as products of C9-N10 scission of the folate molecule, pteridines, para-aminobenzoylglutamate and para-acetamidobenzoylglutmate. We detected no other N10-containing catabolites, nor did we find the oxidized folate derivative ‘4α-hydroxy-5-methyltetrahydrofolate’. Of all the urinary folate metabolites, only para-acetamidobenzoylglutmate persisted at high levels up to 10 d after radiolabel treatment was withdrawn. We conclude that folate catabolism occurs exclusively through C9-N10 cleavage and that measurement of urinary para-acetamidobenzoylglutmate provides a suitable indicator of daily folate turnover.

Inflammatory cell responses in biliary mucosa during Opisthorchis viverrini infection: Insights into susceptibility differences among hosts.

Individual host susceptibility is believed to be a risk factor in the interaction between the host and the parasite. Since studying time series in humans is limited, animal models are replaced. This study aims to explore and compare the pattern of inflammatory cell types along the biliary tract and their association with proliferative lesions in the early development of cholangiocarcinoma from susceptible and nonsusceptible animal models. Thirty male Syrian golden hamsters and 30 BALB/c mice, serving as the susceptible and nonsusceptible animal models, were used in this comparative study. The animals were infected with 50 Opisthorchis viverrini metacercariae via gastric intubation. At days 1, 2, 7, 14, 28, and 56 postinfection (p.i.), five animals were randomly selected from each group and humanely sacrificed. The hepatobiliary tissues were collected and processed for histopathological study. Histochemical and immunohistochemical staining were applied to differentiate the inflammatory cell types. Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests were applied to assess all semi-quantitative and quantitative variables. The correlation between each variable was also analyzed using Spearman rank at a p-value < 0.05. The results demonstrated that mice had different patterns of infiltrating cell types when compared to hamsters. This suggested that the cellular response to the infection in mice occurred earlier than that in hamsters. The response in mice reached its peak at D7 to D14 and then rapidly declined at D28. In contrast, although the inflammatory response in hamsters started slowly, the response reached the peak at D28 and maintained a high level until D56. Significant differences in the number of inflammatory cells between mice and hamsters were seen at D1 (p = 0.047), D7 (p = 0.049), D28 (p = 0.040), and D56 (p < 0.040). The inflammatory responses to O. viverrini infection in the nonsusceptible animal model occurred and declined earlier while the response in the susceptible animal model occurred later in a gradual manner. Both rodents are suitable animal models for the studies of opisthorchiasis susceptibility.

BLOOD CHEMISTRY PARAMETERS IN DOGS WITH ACUTE GASTRIC DILATION SYNDROME DURING THE PREOPERATIVE PERIOD

Acute gastric dilation syndrome is a condition that occurs with a significant increase in the stomach volume, which can also beaggravated by twisting the stomach around its axis (gastric torsion). Acute dilation syndrome and gastric torsion is deadly conditions that require immediate veterinary care and intensive therapy. Mortality from this pathology ranges from 10 to 50%, most of the fatal cases occur during postoperative period, and possible complications can affect almost all body systems. The purpose of the presented study was to evaluate and analyze the most common changes in blood biochemical parameters in dogs with acute gastric dilation syndrome, as well as a retrospective review of methods for choosing the resolution of the acute gastric dilation syndrome (surgical intervention or gastric intubation intubation and lavage). Based on the data obtained, a statistical analysis was carried out in order to identify the most prognostically significant parameters. During the study, the regularities of the choice of the treatment method were revealed – for dogs with a live weight of more than 33 kg, in 80% of cases, surgical intervention with subsequent gastropexy was chosen as treatment method. The survival rate of dogs with the choice of surgery as treatment method was 60% (n=10), and for dogs with probing and gastric lavage as treatment method – 50% (n=10). There were also significant (p&lt;0.05) increases in total bilirubin levels and aspartate aminotransferase activity in the group of dogs with a fatal outcome (n=9) when compared with the group of dogs with a benign outcome (n=11). The activity of aspartate aminotransferase in the group of dogs with a benign outcome was 111.52 ± 69.34 IU/l, and in the group of dogs with a fatal outcome 270.46 ± 179.11 IU/l. The total bilirubin level was 3.27 ± 1.19 μmol/l and 5.34 ± 2.31 μmol/l, respectively.

P10-05 No apparent cellular immunotoxicity in mice subchronically exposed to polyethylene or polytetrafluorethylene microplastics through gastric intubation

P10-05 No apparent cellular immunotoxicity in mice subchronically exposed to polyethylene or polytetrafluorethylene microplastics through gastric intubation

EFFECT OF MIXTURE OF LEAF EXTRACT OF Ocimum gratissimum AND Vernonia amygdalina ON CADMIUM INDUCED HEPATOTOXICITY IN WISTAR RATS

The search for potential ameliorative substances for cadmium toxicity is still in progress, thus, this study investigated the invivo effect of oral administration of the leaf extract of Vernonia amygdalina (Bitter leaf) and Ocimum gratissimum (Scent leaf) on biochemical parameters; Alanine transaminase (ALT), Aspartate transaminase (AST), Alkaline phosphatase (ALP), Albumin, Total protein and oxidative stress biomarkers Malondialdehyde (MDA), Reduced glutathione (GSH), Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) in the liver of cadmium exposed Wistar rats. A total of sixteen female rats weighing 120-150g were used and they were divided into four groups with four rats each. The experimental period was for four weeks. Group 1 served as control, Group 2 (Cadmium 10mg/kg body weight), Group 3 (Extract 200mg/kg per body weight). Group 4 (Cd 10mg/kg + Extract 200mg/kg body weight). The samples were administered orally by gastric intubation through the use of a cannula attached to a 1ml syringe. Blood and organ samples were collected and analyzed. Results obtained from administered groups were all compared to the control. Serum biochemical markers showed significant (P≤0.05) increase in the activities of AST, ALT, ALP, but there was no significant change in Total protein and Albumin when values were compared to the control (Group 1). Comparing Group 2 to Group 4 showed significant decrease in enzyme activities, but no significant change in the concentration of total protein and albumin. Oxidative stress markers showed significant increase (P&lt;0.05) in concentration of MDA in the liver and significantly (P&lt;0.05) decreased the activity of SOD and CAT and concentration of GSH in cadmium control (Group 2) when compared with the control (Group 1). Comparing Group 2 to the Group 4 (cadmium and extract) showed significant (P&lt;0.05) increase in activity of SOD and CAT and concentration of GSH, while MDA had significant (P&lt;0.05) decrease. The results showed that the leaf extract had some antioxidant and hepatoprotective potentials, which can help in ameliorating cadmium induced stress to the liver.

The protective effect of Eruca sativa against lipid metabolic abnormalities induced by dioxin in male rats

ABSTRACT 2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) is a toxic environmental compound that causes a deleterious effect on lipid metabolism. This study was conducted to evaluate the protective effect of ethanolic Eruca sativa leaves extract against dioxin-induced lipid metabolic abnormalities in male Rattus rattus. For 5 weeks, Eruca sativa leaves extract (500 mg/kg) was co-administered with dioxin (100 ng/kg) daily via gastric intubation. The concomitant treatment with both dioxin and Eruca sativa extract nearly approached the concentration of serum cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein, γ-glutamyltransferase, in addition to testicular concentration of phospholipids, and the activities of both alkaline phosphatase and acid phosphatase activities. In addition, we have noticed a decline in serum concentration of triglycerides, very low- and low-density lipoprotein, total lipid, phospholipid, alkaline phosphatase, acid phosphatase, and lactate dehydrogenase as well as testicular cholesterol, triglyceride, total lipid, γ- glutamyltransferase, and lactate dehydrogenase activities have shown significant (p < 0.05) decreases. Notably, these alterations were not achieved to the control value relative to the dioxin-treated rate. In conclusion, the protective effects of Eruca sativa leaves extract are attributed to its antioxidant effect and fatty acid content.

Assessment toxic effects of exposure to 3-indoleacetic acid via hemato-biochemical, hormonal, and histopathological screening in rats

The current study purposed to investigate the 3-indoleacetic acid (IAA) possible adverse impacts on hematological parameters, hepatorenal function, cardiac, and skeletal muscles as well as testes of rats and histopathological alterations of respective organs and to determine the extent of reversing any adverse impacts occurred in animals after IAA withdrawal. Rats were exposed orally to 500 mg/kg BW by gastric intubation once daily for 14 days, after which one-half was sacrificed and the remaining half left for a further 14 days without IAA exposure. The exposure of rats to IAA produced anemia, leukopenia, neutrophilia, lymphopenia, and a significant increase in activities of serum transaminase, gamma-glutamyl transferase, creatine kinase-myocardial band, creatine kinase-muscle type, and levels of serum creatinine, sodium, chloride, and potassium. Furthermore, serum levels of testosterone, gonadotropins, and leptin significantly declined. The changes in most of measured parameters continued after IAA withdrawal. Histopathological alterations in different tissues supported these changes. In conclusion, subacute exposure to IAA at a high concentration could exert hematotoxicity and toxic effects on many soft organs and its withdrawal led to incomplete recovery of animals. Thus, IAA should be used cautiously as extensive use of it at high concentrations can cause harmful effects on the environment, animals and human beings.

Combined Treatment of Levetiracetam and Mesenchymal Stem Cells Reverses the Biochemical Aberrations in the Acute Phase of Epilepsy Induced by Pilocarpine in Rats

In spite of the enormous evolution of the novel anti-seizure medications, about one-third of epilepsy patients stay resistant to the existing therapeutic drugs. Stem cells have provoked hopeful for treating diverse neurologic diseases comprises epilepsy. The rational of this investigation was to appraise the therapeutic intervention of a combination of levetiracetam (LEV) with rodent adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADMSCs) or rodent bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs) in counteracting pilocarpine-induced acute epilepsy in rats. In this research, the isolation and preparation of ADMSCs and BMMSCs from male albino rats were carried out. The identification of ADMSCs and BMMSCs was performed morphologically in the culture by using the inverted microscope and by the detection of the cell surface profile by using the flow cytometry technique. The induction of acute epilepsy was achieved by intraperitoneal injection of a single dose of pilocarpine (380 mg/kg b.wt). This study was conducted on fifty six adult male albino rats which were assigned into seven equal groups (8 rats/group); Group (1): Control, Group (2): Epileptic, Group (3): Epileptic + LEV (300 mg/kg b.wt daily for 12 weeks by gastric intubation with an oral gavage), Group (4): Epileptic + ADMSCs (single dose of ADMSCs; 3 × 106 cells/rat; intravenously), Group (5): Epileptic + BMMSCs (single dose of BMMSCs 3 × 106 cells/rat; intravenously), Group (6) : Epileptic + ADMSCs + LEV and Group (7) Epileptic + BMMSCs + LEV. After the end of the experimental period (12 weeks), all rats were tested by the mean electric shock (MES) test to prove the presence of strong seizures in the epileptic group and the modulation of these seizures after treatments. Then, the rats were decapitated and the whole brain of each rat was dissected into two halves, the first half was used for the quantitative determination of GABA, glutamate, dopamine, bFGF, BDNF, IL-6 and TNF-α, while the second half was fixed in formalin saline for histological investigation. The findings of the present work demonstrated that the morphological appearance of the isolated MSCs manifests spindle-shape. The flow cytometric analysis showed that the isolated MSCs are positive for CD90 and negative for CD14 and CD45. The homing of MSCs in the brain tissue of the treated rats was verified by their staining with the fluorescent dye. The recordings of the MES indicated the presence of strong seizures in the epileptic rats which were ameliorated after treatment with LEV, ADMSCs, BMMSCs. The level of brain GABA decreased significantly in the epileptic rats, whereas the level of brain glutamate, dopamine, bFGF, BDNF, IL-6 and TNF-α increased significantly; these alterations were improved after treatment with LEV or ADMSCs or BMMSCs. The histological examination of the brain tissue of the epileptic rats showed great histopathological alterations which were amended by the different treatment options. The combined treatment of either ADMSCs or BMMSCs with LEV displayed superior advantageous effect versus the single use of each type of cell in combating the acute phase of epilepsy. In conclusion, the outcomes of the present approach disclosed that the combined treatment of either ADMSCs or BMMSCs with the antiepileptic drug LEV has synergistic effect in alleviation of the behavioral and biochemical aberrations as well as brain histological deformation during the acute phase of epilepsy.

Nanoparticles of Costus&nbsp;speciosus Ameliorate Diabetes-Induced Structural Changes in Rat Prostate through Mediating the Pro-Inflammatory Cytokines IL 6, IL1β and TNF-α.

Diabetes mellitus is a common global health problem. Among the complications that are frequently associated with DM are the alternation of sexual function and fertility, especially in young men. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of nanoparticles of Costus speciosus (C. speciosus) in preserving the prostatic structure of diabetic rats and to explore the mechanism behind this effect. A model of DM was induced in male albino rats by a single intraperitoneally injection of streptozotocin (STZ, 60 mg/kg body weight). Five groups (n = 10 each) of rats were included in this study: the control, C. speciosus gold nanoparticles-treated (150 mg/kg body weight through gastric intubation for 30 days), untreated diabetic, metformin-treated diabetic (500 mg/kg/day gastric intubation for 30 days) and the C. speciosus-treated diabetic group. The blood glucose, insulin and testosterone levels as well as oxidants/antioxidants status were assessed in the serum. Gene expression of proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL1β and IL-6 were assessed in the prostate homogenate. At the end of the experiment, the rats were sacrificed and the prostate was dissected out and prepared for histopathological and immunohistochemistry study using Ki67 and Bcl-2. C. Speciosus nanoparticles significantly decreased (p = 0.03) the blood glucose level while significantly increasing insulin (p = 0.01) and testosterone (p = 0.04) levels compared to the untreated diabetic rats. Oxidants/antioxidants status was markedly improved after administration of C. speciosus. Prostatic expression of the mRNA of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6, IL1β and TNF-α was down-regulated in metformin- and C. speciosus-treated rats. The histological structure of the ventral prostate was preserved in metformin- and C. speciosus-treated diabetic rats with a significantly thicker epithelial cell layer and significant increase immunoexpression in Bcl-2 and Ki67. In conclusion, the protective effect induced by C. speciosus nanoparticles on the prostate of diabetic rats might be directly mediated through the down-regulation of inflammatory cytokines and the up-regulation of antioxidant activity and indirectly mediated through the anti-hyperglycemic effect through enhancing insulin secretion.

Effect of Proteasome Inhibitor on Vascular Cell Adhesion Molecule-1 (VCAM-1) and Intercellular Adhesion Molecule-1 (ICAM-1) Expressions in Rat Model of Atherosclerosis.

The effect of proteasome inhibitors on atherosclerosis is known to vary depending on the atherosclerosis stage. Previous studies have shown that the highest proteasome expression in atherosclerotic lesions is at the progression stage. Adhesion molecules play a role in the progression stage of atherosclerosis, but no studies have analyzed the effect of proteasome inhibitors on the expression of adhesion molecules at this stage. This experimental study aimed to analyze the effect of a proteasome inhibitor, namely bortezomib, on the vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) and intercellular adhesion molecule1 (ICAM-1) expressions in blood vessels of rat model of atherosclerosis at the progression stage. This study used 18 male Wistar rats divided into three groups, i.e. group I that is the control group given standard feed, group II induced by atherosclerosis, and group III induced by atherosclerosis and given bortezomib. Atherosclerosis induction was performed using vitamin D3 (700,000 IU/kg) orally by gastric intubation on the 1st day and atherogenic feed given for four days. Bortezomib 50 µg/kgBW/day was administered intra-peritoneally. The expression of VCAM-1 and ICAM-1 molecules was measured using immunohistochemistry and analyzed quantitatively using Adobe Photoshop software. The statistical test showed differences in VCAM-1 expression between atherosclerosis + Bortezomib group and atherosclerosis group, but there were no differences in the expression of ICAM-1 and atherosclerotic lesions between the groups. Administration of bortezomib 50μg/kg for four days in progressive atherosclerosis model rats can inhibit VCAM-1 expression, although it does not affect ICAM-1 expression and cannot inhibit atherosclerotic lesion formation.

Protective effects of polyphenol-rich extracts of Glyphaea brevis against oxidative stress in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

Background and Objective: Diabetes mellitus and its oxidative complications are progressing around the world and plant-based products appear to be promising alternative treatments. The present study aimed to evaluate the antioxidant potential of the leaves of Glyphaea brevis (Tiliaceae) in an experimental model of diabetic rats. Materials and Methods: Diabetes mellitus was induced by intravenous injection of streptozotocin (STZ). Leaf aqueous and hydroethanolic extracts (AE and HEE respectively) were given daily at doses of 250 and 500 mg/kg by gastric intubation for 30 days. Antioxidant status of rats was determined in extracellular as well as in intracellular compartments by assessing ferric-reducing antioxidant power, enzymatic antioxidants (catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase) and non-enzymatic antioxidants (protein thiols). Results: As compared with untreated diabetic rats, administration of extracts led to significantly higher values of ferric-reducing antioxidant power, enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants in all compartments. Conclusion: These results suggest that G. brevis extracts have antioxidant activity that could find applications in the management of oxidative complications of diabetes mellitus.