Glutamic Oxaloacetic Transaminase Levels Research Articles

Comparative toxicity of nanoparticulate and ionic copper following dietary exposure to common carp (Cyprinus carpio)

Copper is an essential element for the normal growth and survival of all organisms including fish. However, its excessive presence in the environment can cause bioaccumulation and aquatic toxicology. The aim of the present study was to compare the dietary toxicity effects of two different Cu compounds, copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO-NPs) and ionic copper (CuSO4) in juvenile common carp, Cyprinus carpio. To prepare experimental diets, two nominal concentrations of 100 and 1000 mg Cu kg−1 diet were added to a basal diet. Carp (n = 450, average initial weight of 35.94 ± 5.35 g) were fed on the Cu-supplemented diets and basal diets for two 21-day courses as dietary exposure and recovery periods, respectively. The growth performance, survival rate and blood biochemical indices as well as copper accumulation in target organs of fish were investigated at the end of each exposure period. The results showed that the weight gain (WG) of carp significantly decreased coincident with increasing concentration of the both dietary Cu forms (P = 0.00). Both Cu sources at concentrations of 100 mg kg−1 diet decreased the survival rate of fish (P = 0.003), likely due to more feed intake and thus increased copper toxicity. The both forms of dietary Cu at two different concentrations significantly decreased the plasma glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (GOT) level compared to the control group (P = 0.008). Fish exposed to diets containing Cu sources except 100 mg Cu kg−1 of CuO-NPs showed the lower glutamate pyruvate transaminase (GPT) activity in comparison to the control (P = 0.00). The plasma sodium level in1000 mg CuO-NPs kg−1 diet was significantly lower than the control (P = 0.001). The plasma potassium level increased in the all Cu-supplemented groups except 100 mg kg−1 of CuO-NPs after the dietary exposure period (P = 0.035). The copper accumulation was dose-dependent in all target organs. In 100 mg Cu kg−1 dietary groups, the liver showed the highest Cu accumulation (P = 0.00), while in 1000 mg Cu kg−1 dietary groups, the highest Cu content was observed in the intestine (P = 0.00). The results demonstrated the enhanced toxicological responses in fish after 21 days of dietary exposure, but the levels of most of biochemical indices and tissues Cu content decreased or returned to the control values after the recovery period.

Hyperferritinemia worsens the perinatal outcomes of conceptions of pregnancies with preeclampsia.

To analyze the prevalence of hyperferritinemia in pregnant women with preeclampsia and its association with adverse perinatal outcomes. A cross-sectional study carried out in 2017 with a convenience sample of pregnant women with preeclampsia attended at a high-risk maternity hospital in Alagoas, Brazil. Socioeconomic, lifestyle, clinical and biochemical data were collected through a structured questionnaire. Type of delivery, gestational age, weight and length at birth, and Apgar score were analyzed as outcome variables. Women were dichotomized according to the serum ferritin level (150ng/mL). Poisson regression models were used to analyze the effect of hyperferritinemia on the outcome variables. Estimates were presented as prevalence ratio with 95% confidence intervals (PR [95% CI]). Based on the Fisher's exact statistical teste and in the proportions of the neonatal outcome (birth weight), with a statistical significance of 5%, the statistical power of the sample studied was 83%. Two hundred six pregnant women with preeclampsia were recruited, which 8.74% presented hyperferritinemia. Except for ferritin level, there were no differences in C-reactive protein (CRP), hemoglobin, Glutamate Oxaloacetate Transaminase (GOT) and Pyruvic Glutamic Transaminase (PGT) levels between women with or without hyperferritinemia. After adjusting for potential confounders, hyperferritinemia was associated with low birth weight (2.19 [2.13-3.89 95%CI]), low birth length (7.76 [2.52-23.8 95% CI]) and being born small for gestational age (3.14 [1.36-7.28 95% CI]). In the presence of hyperferritinemia, preeclampsia patients were associated with a higher rate of unfavorable neonatal outcomes.

Impact of nitrite exposure on plasma biochemical parameters and immune-related responses in Takifugu rubripes

Nitrite is a major environmental pollutant in aquatic environments that negatively affects aquatic species. In this study, we investigated the impact of nitrite exposure on plasma biochemical parameters and immune responses in Takifugu rubripes. Fish were exposed to various concentrations of nitrite (0, 0.5, 1, 3, and 6 mM) for 96 h. After 0, 12, 24, 48, and 96 h of exposure, fish blood samples were collected to assay the levels of total protein (TP), albumin (Alb), glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase (GOT), glutamic-pyruvic transaminase (ALT), complement C3 (C3), complement C4 (C4), immunoglobulin (IgM), and lysozyme activity (LZM). The gills were sampled to analyze the mRNA levels of heat shock protein 70 (hsp70), heat shock protein 90 (hsp90), tumor necrosis factor α (tnf-α), B-cell activating factor (baff), interleukin-6 (il-6), and interleukin-12 (il-12). Levels of GOT, ALT, C3, and C4 were significantly enhanced in the high nitrite concentration group (3 and 6 mM), whereas those of TP, Alb, LZM, and IgM decreased significantly with the same treatments. Nitrite significantly upregulated hsp70, hsp90, tnf-α, il-6, il-12, and baff mRNA levels after 96 h of exposure. These results indicated that nitrite exposure altered the blood physiological status and immune system response, resulting in dysfunction and immunotoxicity in T. rubripes. Furthermore, our results reveal the possible mechanism of aquatic-nitrite-induced toxicity in fish.

Study of some clinico-pathological parameters of Thalassemia patients in AL-Zahraa hospital

Thalassemia: is a genetic disorder caused by a defect in production of one or more globin chains of hemoglobin (Hb).Thalassemia is classified into two major groups, namely, α-thalassemia and β-thalassemia according to the particular type of globin chain affected. Various complications caused by this disease including, progressive liver failure and abnormal kidney function.one hundred samples of thalassemia were analyzed at AL-Zahraa hospital education in AL-Najaf province. The patients are aged (10-30) years. The results are compared with control group (50) persons. This study included some of the clinic-pathological and hematological parameters such as some liver enzymes, ferritin, complete blood count, blood film, also age and blood group. The results were (50%) male and (50%) female patients while the control group are (25%) male and (25%) female. Most Patients were (64%) in the age of (10 -15 years), followed by (26%) in the age group of (16 -20 years) and only (5%) in age (21-25 years), also (5%) for age (26 -30 years). Most frequent blood group in this study was O+ is (30%) followed by B+ group (27%) and the other blood groups A+, AB+, A-, O-, AB-, B- were (25%), (11%), (3%), (2%), (1%), (1%) respectively. Levels of Serum Glutamic Oxaloacetic Transaminase, Serum Glutamic Pyruvic Transaminase and ferritin, in addition to, platelets and White Blood Cells count are higher than normal while Hemoglobin, Hematocrit and Red Blood Cells are decreased. Peripheral blood film of thalassemia patients showing microcytic and hypochromic anemia, in addition to, nucleated Red Blood Cell and large number of target cells. This study demonstrates that thalassemia patients have difference in liver function, serum content ferritin and hematological characteristics in comparison with control group.

Modification on acute myocardial infarction model through left anterior descending coronary artery ligation: An experimental study on rats (Rattus norvegicus) using readily available materials.

Background and Aim:Several difficulties are involved in creating models for myocardial infarction (MI) in animals, such as low survival rates after acute MI, complicated techniques in creating animal models, complexities in confirming acute MI incidence, and complex surgical tools needed in the process. This study aimed to develop an animal model for acute MI using Wistar rats utilizing simple instruments that are readily available in standard animal laboratories.Materials and Methods:We induced MI in 48 Wistar rats using the left anterior descending coronary artery ligation modification technique without tracheal incision and ventilator. This ligation technique was performed 1-2 mm distal to the left atrial appendage. MI occurrence was evaluated using heart enzyme parameters 24 h post-ligation and histological studies of the infarcted area 6 weeks after the ligation. Rats were divided into the coronary artery ligation group and sham group.Results:Of the 48 rats, 24 (50%) died within 24 h post-ligation, but no further deaths occurred in the next follow-up period of 6 weeks. The average infarct size in six rats within 24 h of ligation was 35%±5.7%. The serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase level of the group treated with coronary artery ligation was statistically significantly higher than that of the sham group (p=0.000).Conclusion:We developed an MI rat model with consistent infarction size, in which the long-term death of rats was not observed. Our ligation technique for an MI rat model can be a reference for experimental settings without ventilators for small animals.

Amelioration of Paracetamol-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Rat by the Administration of Chloroform extract of Argemone mexicana

Aim: The present study was undertaken to examine the effects of Chloroform extract of Argemone mexicana using the paracetamol-induced liver damage in rats as the animal model.
 Materials and methods: Chloroform extract of Argemone mexicana (100 and 200 mg/kg body weight) was administered daily in experimental animals. The hepatoprotective efficacy of Chloroform extract of Argemone mexicana (100 and 200 mg/kg) was investigated against paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity. The levels of serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT), serum glutamic-pyruvic transaminase (SGPT), serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP), bilirubin and triglycerides were estimated. Moreover, chloroform extract of Argemone mexicana -aided antioxidant defense against hepatotoxic insult of paracetamol was measured by evaluating a number of anti-oxidative biomarkers including reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) in the serum.
 Results: Oral administration of paracetamol (500 mg/kg b.wt.) resulted in a significant elevation of liver enzymes in serum such as SGOT, SGPT, ALP, bilirubin and triglyceride levels when compared with the results in the control group. As regards oxidative stress biomarkers, there were increased tissue levels of malondialdehyde in the group treated with paracetamol. All of these results were ameliorated by co-administration of chloroform extract of Argemone mexicana.
 Conclusions: These results suggest that the protective role of Chloroform extract of Argemone mexicana in the prevention of PCM-induced hepatic toxicity in rats was associated with a decrease of oxidative stress in hepatic tissues.
 Keywords: Antihepatotoxicity; Chloroform extract of Argemone mexicana; Paracetamol

Effects of Kersen leaves extract (Muntingia calabura L.) on SGOT and SGPT levels of soft drink induced mice

This study aimed to analyse the antioxidant activity, total phenols, and flavonoids of kersen leaves (Muntingia calabura L.) extract (KLE) and determine the hepatoprotective activity of KLE in soft drink induced mice. Soft drinks induction causes liver injuries which increases the serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT) and serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT) levels. Mice were divided into five treatment groups (n=5) and were given Tween 80 (1%) (normal control), Tween 80 (1%) and 7 ml soft drinks (negative control), KLE (1000, 1500, and 2000 mg/kg), and 7 ml soft drinks per oral once daily for 4 weeks. Antioxidant activity was measured by 2.2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) method. Total phenols and flavonoids were analyzed by Folin-ciocalteu colorimetric and aluminium chloride (AlCl3) method. The blood samples were collected for biochemical analysis. The result showed that the KLE antioxidant activity were 11.11+0.50 ppm. Total phenols and flavonoids detected in the KLE samples were 2.19+0.12 mgGAE/g and 2.43+0.24 mgQE/g respectively. Mice treated with KLE had a significantly lower (p<0.05) serum SGOT and SGPT levels than negative control group. In conclusion, KLE has a potential hepatoprotective activity that works in synergy with its antioxidant activity.

Hepatopoietin Cn (HPPCn) Generates Protective Effects on Acute Liver Injury.

Objective: To observe the protective role of hapatopoietin Cn (HPPcn) on acute liver injury. Methods: Six hours after 10 mmol/L CCl4, 150 mmol/L ethanol, or 0.6 mmol/L H2O2 treatment, SMMC7721 human hepatoma cells were incubated with 10, 100, or 200 ng/ml recombinant human HPPCn protein (rhHPPCn) for an additional 24 h. The cell survival rate was analyzed using the CCK-8 assay. The CCl4-induced apoptosis of SMMC7721 cells was detected by flow cytometry. Then, the levels of glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (GOT), glutamic-pyruvic transaminase (GPT), malondialdehyde (MDA), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in SMMC7721 cell lysates and cell culture supernatant were detected. SMMC7721 cells were treated with different concentrations of rhHPPCn (0, 10, and 100 ng/ml). The cell proliferation indexes (BrdU incorporation and PCNA expression) were detected by immunohistochemistry (IHC). An acute liver injury mouse model was established by a one-time intraperitoneal injection of 20% CCl4 at a volume of 5 ml/kg body weight. One hour after CCl4 injection, 1.25 or 2.5 mg rhHPPCn/12 h/kg body weight was injected via the tail vein. The serum levels of GOT and GPT were detected at different time points. Pathological changes in the liver were evaluated. PCNA expression levels were observed by IHC. Results: rhHPPCn increased the survival rate of SMMC7721 cells and inhibited chemical toxicity-induced cell apoptosis. The levels of GOT, GPT, MDA, and LDH in the cell supernatant were significantly reduced, while GSH-PX and SOD were significantly increased after rhHPPCn treatment in the CCl4-treated SMMC7721 cells. BrdU incorporation and PCNA expression increased in a concentration-dependent manner, indicating that rhHPPCn promotes cell proliferation. The results showed that rhHPPCn significantly reduced the serum levels of GOT and GPT in CCl4-induced acute liver injury mice. rhHPPCn alleviated the tissue damage and increased PCNA expression, indicating the promotion of proliferation after acute injury. Conclusion: rhHPPCn protects hepatocytes from chemical toxins by promoting proliferation and inhibiting apoptosis in vivo and in vitro. Our study provides new insights for the clinical treatment of acute liver injury.

Pioglitazone as an adjuvant of amphotericin B for the treatment of cryptococcosis

Approximately 180,000 people worldwide die from cryptococcosis each year, probably due to the ineffectiveness and toxicity of drugs currently available to treat the disease. Amphotericin B (AMB) is effective for killing the fungus, but has serious adverse effects linked to excessive production of reactive oxygen species which compromise renal function. Pioglitazone (PIO) is a peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ agonist widely repositioned as an adjuvant of various drugs that have toxic effects due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. This study evaluated PIO in combination with AMB for the treatment of cryptococcosis. PIO was found to reduce serum creatinine and glutamic-oxalacetic transaminase levels in mice treated with PIO+AMB. In vitro, PIO was able to control harmful oxidative bursts induced by AMB without compromising the antifungal effect. In vivo, PIO+AMB increased the survival rate compared with AMB alone, and improved the morbidity of the animals. PIO+AMB was more efficient than AMB alone for inhibiting fungal transmigration from the lungs to the brain, and killing yeasts that reached the central nervous system, avoiding the establishment of meningoencephalitis. In a phagocytosis assay, PIO did not influence the engulfment and fungicidal activity of macrophages induced by AMB, but reduced the oxidative bursts after the reduction of fungal burden, pointing to control of the pathogen without leading to excessive stress which can be damaging to the host. In conclusion, PIO+AMB was found to ameliorate cryptococcosis in a murine model, indicating that it is a promising therapeutic adjuvant for combating and controlling this fungal infection.

Dietary Indigenous Cinnamon (Cinnamomum osmophloeum) Leaf Powder Reduces Plasma Lipid in Hypercholesterolemia Hamsters

Indigenous cinnamon ( Cinnamomum osmophloeum Kaneh) is a native tree species in Taiwan and has been reported to have various bioactivities including insecticidal, larvicidal, and antimicrobial effects. The chemical finger print of C. osmophloeum is similar to that of commercial cinnamon species with lower coumarin content. The present study was aimed to investigate the antidyslipidemia effects of indigenous cinnamon ( Cinnamomum osmophloeum Kaneh) leaf powder (CoLP) on hypercholesterolemia hamsters. Hyperlipidemia was induced by high-cholesterol (HChol) diet for 4 weeks. Two percent and 5% CoLP, and gemfibrozil (positive control; 0.25%) were administered for 10 weeks following HChol diet. Control groups were fed with normal diet (ND) or ND+5% CoLP. Behavioral, physiological, and serum biochemical parameters were determined. We found that oral administration of CoLP for 10 weeks significantly reduced the HChol-induced increase of total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride, and low-density lipoprotein levels in plasma of hamsters. In addition, HChol-induced elevation of serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase and glutamic pyruvic transaminase levels was significantly reversed by CoLP in a dose-dependent manner, whereas blood urea nitrogen and creatinine levels were unaffected. Further standard diagnostic tests support that consumption of CoLP did not show any behavioral and morphological changes in hamsters. Furthermore, chemical composition analysis revealed that two new flavanol glycosides, kaempferol-3- O-α-l-rhamnopyranosyl-(1→2)-α-l-arabinofuranosyl-7- O-α-l-rhamnopyranoside (4) and kaempferol-3- O-β -d-apiofuranosyl-(1→2)-α-l-arabinofuranoside (5) along with 4 known flavonoid glycosides were identified in leaves of C. osmophloeum. Taken together, these results concluded that CoLP possessed strong antidyslipidemic effects. Therefore, C. osmophloeum leaves could be a safe food supplement for treating hypercholesterolemia.

Pengaruh Poliherbal Ekstrak Jeringau, Temu Mangga Dan Bawang Putih Pada Fungsi Hepar Tikus (Rattus norwegicus)

This study aims to determine the effect of polyherbal extract of jeringau (Acorus calamus), temu mangga (Curcuma mangga), and garlic (Allium sativum) on the levels of Glutamate Oxaloacetate Transaminase (GOT) and Glutamate Pyruvate Transaminase (GPT) enzymes in rat hepar. The results of this study can be used as an indicator of the safety of using natural-based drugs on the body. This study used a completely randomized design (CRD) with 9 treatments and 3 replications. Treatment consists of K- (without treatment), K + (clomiphene citrate dose of 0.9 mg/kg BW), P1 (combination 1 at dose 50 mg/kgBB, P2 (combination 1 at a dose of 75 mg/kgBB), P3 (combination 1 at a dose of 100 mg/kgBB, P4 (combination 2 at a dose of 50 mg/kgBB), P5 (combination 2 at a dose of 75 mg/kgBB), P6 (combination 2 at a dose of 100 mg/kgBB), P7 (Subur kandungan herb at dose of 75 mg/kgBB). The results showed the highest levels of GPT enzymes were found in the treatment group 3 with the administration of combination 1 extract with a dose of 100 mg / kg BW of 46.7 U/L and the lowest level at P7 14.4 U / L, while the highest GOT enzyme levels were found in P6 namely 57.6 U / L and the lowest at P4 23.3 U / L. The results of the levels of the two transaminase enzymes are still in the normal category.&#x0D; Keywords: Jeringau, Temu Mangga, Garlic, Hepar, GPT, GOT

Effect of In Ovo Injection of L-Arginine in Different Chicken Embryonic Development Stages on Post-Hatchability, Immune Response, and Myo-D and Myogenin Proteins.

Simple SummaryIn the current study, we hypothesized that the in ovo injection of L-arginine (L-Arg) at different stages of embryonic development, which would have positive effects on the survival rate, hatching rate, immunoglobulin M (IgM) levels, heat shock proteins (HSPs) such as HSP-47, HSP-60, and HSP-70, and muscle development markers as well: Mainly, myoblast determination protein (myoD) and myogenin in pectoral muscles. As indicated, the in ovo injection of L-Arg resulted in an increased hatch rate and weight, survival rate, higher levels of IgM, and myogenin and MyoD expression in the muscles. At the same time, a decrease in the level of HSP-47, HSP-60, and HSP-70 expressions in the tissues was observed on the 14th day of injection compared to the eighth and 18th day of the injection period. In addition, the in ovo injection of L-Arg decreased the serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (SGOT) and serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase (SGPT) concentration in serum as well micronuclei and nuclear abnormality in the blood on the 14th day of the incubation period. Hence, the 14th day would be a suitable day for the injection of L-Arg to promote the hatching rate and muscle growth of broiler chickens.The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of in ovo injection with different ratios of L-arginine (L-Arg) into Ross broiler eggs at three different embryonic developmental stages (eighth day (d), 14th day, and 18th day) on the survival, hatchability, and body weight (BW) of one-day-old hatched chicks. Additionally, we have analyzed the levels of serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (SGOT) and serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase (SGPT), the protein expression of heat shock proteins (HSPs), and we have also determined micronuclei (MN) and nuclear abnormality (NA). In addition, the genotoxic effect was observed in peripheral blood cells such as the presence of micronuclei and nuclear abnormalities in the experimental groups. The results showed that survival and hatching rates as well as body weight were increased on the 14th day of incubation compared to the eighth and 18th day of incubation at lower concentrations of L-Arg. Moreover, the levels of SGOT and SGPT were also significantly (p < 0.05) increased on the 14th day of incubation at the same concentration (100 μg/μL/egg) of injection. In addition, immunoglobulin (IgM) levels were increased on the 14th day of incubation compared to other days. The protein expressions of HSP-47, HSP-60, and HSP-70 in the liver were significantly down-regulated, whereas the expression of myogenin and myoblast determination protein (MyoD) were significantly up-regulated on the 14th day after incubation when treated with all different doses such as 100 μg, 1000 μg, and 2500 μg/μL/egg, namely 3T1, 3T2, and 3T3, respectively. However, the treatment with low doses of L-Arg down-regulated the expression levels of those proteins on the 14th day of incubation. Histopathology of the liver by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining showed that the majority of liver damage, specifically intracytoplasmic vacuoles, were observed in the 3T1, 3T2, and 3T3 groups. The minimum dose of 100 μg/mL/egg on the 14th day of incubation significantly prevented intracytoplasmic vacuole damages. These results demonstrate that in ovo administration of L-Arg at (100 μg/μL/egg) may be an effective method to increase chick BW, hatch rate, muscle growth-related proteins, and promote the immune response through increasing IgM on the 14th day of the incubation period.

Mesenchymal stem cells overexpressing hepatocyte nuclear factor-4 alpha alleviate liver injury by modulating anti-inflammatory functions in mice

BackgroundMesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can migrate to tissue injury sites where they can induce multipotential differentiation and anti-inflammation effects to treat tissue injury. When traditional therapeutic methods do not work, MSCs are considered to be one of the best candidates for cell therapy. MSCs have been used for treating several injury- and inflammation-associated diseases, including liver cirrhosis. However, the therapeutic effect of MSCs is limited. In some cases, the anti-inflammatory function of naïve MSCs is not enough to rescue tissue injury.MethodsCarbon tetrachloride (CCl4) was used to establish a mouse liver cirrhosis model. Enhanced green fluorescence protein (EGFP) and hepatocyte nuclear factor-4α (HNF-4α) overexpression adenoviruses were used to modify MSCs. Three weeks after liver injury induction, mice were injected with bone marrow MSCs via their tail vein. The mice were then sacrificed 3 weeks after MSC injection. Liver injury was evaluated by measuring glutamic-pyruvic transaminase (ALT) and glutamic oxalacetic transaminase (AST) levels. Histological and molecular evaluations were performed to study the mechanisms.ResultsWe found that HNF-4α-overexpressing MSCs had a better treatment effect than unmodified MSCs on liver cirrhosis. In the CCl4-induced mouse liver injury model, we found that HNF-4α-MSCs reduced inflammation in the liver and alleviated liver injury. In addition, we found that HNF-4α promoted the anti-inflammatory effect of MSCs by enhancing nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression, which was dependent on the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signalling pathway.ConclusionsMSCs overexpressing HNF-4α exerted good therapeutic effects against mouse liver cirrhosis due to an enhanced anti-inflammatory effect. Gene modification is likely a promising method for improving the effects of cell therapy.

HEPATOPROTECTIVE ACTIVITY OF CORDIA OBLIQUA AGAINST PARACETAMOL-INDUCED LIVER TOXICITY ON WISTAR RATS

Objective: The ethanolic extract of Cordia obliqua (EECO) Willd. leaves was evaluated for hepatoprotective activity in Wistar rats by inducing hepatic damage with paracetamol.&#x0D; Methods: The leaves of C. obliqua were dried under shade, segregated, pulverized by a mechanical grinder and passed through a 40 mesh sieve. The powdered plant materials were stored in an air-tight container. The above-powdered materials were successively extracted with ethanol by hot continuous percolation method in Soxhlet apparatus for 24 h. The extract was concentrated using a rotary evaporator and subjected to freeze drying in a lyophilizer till dry powder was obtained.&#x0D; Results: Treatment with EECO at 200 and 400 mg/kg showed significant decrease in serum glutamate-pyruvate transaminase, serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, and total bilirubin levels and a significant elevation in the total protein, albumin, and globulin levels in serum when compared with paracetamol treated rats. In histological study of liver, the hepatocytes show moderate cytoplasm and moderately enlarged pleomorphic and hyperchromatic nuclei. The portal triads show mild periportal inflammation composed of lymphocytes, and central veins are normal.&#x0D; Conclusion: On the basis of results, we can conclude that the EECO leaves showed potential hepatoprotective activity in rats.

Experimental poisoning by Heterophyllaea pustulata Hook. f. (Rubiaceae) in goats. Clinical, biochemical and toxicological aspects

The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical, biochemical and toxicological findings of the experimentally poisoning induced by Heterophyllaea pustulata in goats. Ten healthy adult female Saanen breed goats were used in the experiment. The goats were randomly assigned to two groups of five individuals: control and experimental group (CG and EG). Both groups were kept in the same enclosure devoid of shade for 8 h daily. The EG received only H. pustulata samples (leaves and thin steam) and water ad libitum. The CG received lucerne hay. Blood samples were taken at different times after oral administration of vegetal samples, and level of hepatic enzymes, total bilirubin, conjugated and non-conjugated bilirubin was measured, together with the detection of anthraquinones (AQs) and phylloerythrin by High Performance Liquid Chromatography with Diode-Array Detector and Mass Spectrometry with Electron Spray Ionization and Quadrupole Time Of Fly analysis. At the same time, skin biopsy samples were collected for AQs determinations. For histopathological examination, hepatic biopsy samples were collected on day 8. Clinically, all goats of the EG revealed photophobia, dermatitis and photosensitization. None of these goats developed jaundice or died during the experiment (15 days). In addition, affected goats exhibited a significant elevation in the serum levels of glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase, direct bilirubin, and total bilirubin. Microscopic examination of the liver samples revealed slight degenerative lesions. Although phylloerythrin was not detected in sera, a high level of two predominant AQs in H. pustulata (rubiadin/soranjidiol) were noted between 24 and 72 h after plant consumption, which coincided with the period in which the clinical signs were more obvious. Since those AQs were not identified in skin samples, the clinical findings were supported by the presence of AQs in sera. Finally, toxicological studies of the AQs are important, since many current works suggest their potential use in the photodynamic therapy.

Validation of the Use of Neorautanenia mitis (N. mitis) as an antidiarrheal therapy in Nigerian Traditional Medicine

Fluoxetine-induced liver damage is a cause of chronic liver disease. In the present study the hepatoprotective effects of gallic acid against fluoxetine-induced liver damage were examined.Forty-eight male rats were divided into six groups as follow: group 1, the control group; group 2, rats receiving fluoxetine (24 mg/kg bw daily, po) without treatment; group 3, rats receiving 24 mg/kg bw fluoxetine, treated with 50 mg/kg bw silymarin and groups 4, 5, and 6 in which gallic acid (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg bw, po, respectively) was prescribed after the consumption of fluoxetine. The histopathological changes of hepatic tissues were checked out.Fluoxetine caused a significant increase in the levels of serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (GOT), serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase (GPT), lipid profiles, urea, fasting blood sugar (FBS), creatinine (Cr), protein carbonyl (PC) content, malondialdehyde (MDA), and liver TNF-α as an inflammatory element. Also, the obtained results of group 2 revealed a significant decline in ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP), liver catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and vitamin C levels. The treatment with gallic acid showed significant ameliorations in abnormalities of fluoxetine-induced liver injury as represented by the improvement of hepatic CAT, SOD activities, vitamin C levels, serum biochemical parameters, and histopathological changes, in addition to the recovery of antioxidant defense system status.Gallic acid has inhibitory effects on fluoxetine-induced liver damage. The effect of gallic acid is derived from free radical scavenging properties and the anti-inflammatory effect related to TNF-α.

Protective role of eclipta alba against hyperlipidemia induced by high-fat diet in albino rats

Eclipta Alba has been used in traditional and folklore medicine to treat Hyperlipidemia and hepatic disorders. The present study was aimed to investigate the Antihyperlipidemic and hepatoprotective potentials of Eclipta Alba in high-fat diet -induced Albino rats and to determine the underlying mechanism. A total of 30 adult albino rats of Wistar strain weighing 165–215 g were utilized. Animals were treated with high-fat diet for 8 weeks followed by post-treatment of E. Alba for 1 week, 2 weeks, and 3 weeks, respectively. After 12 h of fasting on the last day of the experiment, serum blood samples were collected in EDTA vials and processed for biochemical analysis. A significant decrease in levels of total cholesterol and triglycerides was noted on animals treated with E. alba compared to high-fat diet animals. Treatment of hypercholesterolemic rats with E. Alba showed a marked decrease of serum low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and very LDL cholesterol concentrations compared to the hypercholesterolemic rats. High-fat diet feeding worsened the levels of serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase, serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase, and alkaline phosphatase enzymes, whereas the same markers were significantly improved by supplementation with E. alba compared to the normal group. E. alba acts as an antihyperlipidemic agent in hyperlipidemic conditions and helps for better health.

Sufentanil Preconditioning Protects Against Hepatic Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury by Suppressing Inflammation.

BackgroundInflammation is one of the most significant mechanisms of hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI). Sufentanil has a protective effect against liver injury by reducing inflammatory response. In this study, we used a cellular hepatic ischemic/reoxygenated (IR) model to determine whether sufentanil preconditioning protects against hepatic IRI.Material/MethodsThe human normal liver cells line L-O2 was studied. The levels of glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (AST), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), malonaldehyde (MDA), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were measured using corresponding assay kits. The protein levels of total and phosphorylated ERK1/2, JNK, and p38, and the expression of p65 and COX2 genes, were measured by Western blotting. The levels of inflammatory factors were examined by ELISA. The Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) was used to determine if the viability of L-O2 cells was affected by sufentanil. The effects of sufentanil on IR-induced cell apoptosis were examined by flow cytometry.ResultsIR-induced caused L-O2 cells to become rounded and to have a lower adhesive rate than normal cells. The levels of AST, LDH, and MDA were higher but the level of SOD was lower in the IR group than in the control group. The phosphorylated protein levels of ERK1/2, JNK, and p38, along with the expression of p65 and COX2, were upregulated in the IR group compared to the normal group. In addition, a variety of inflammatory factors were secreted in L-O2 cells after IR. The viability of L-O2 cells decreased and cell apoptosis increased significantly after IR treatment. All indexes of cell injury were reversed by sufentanil in a concentration-dependent manner.ConclusionsSufentanil stimulation triggers downregulation of inflammatory factors such as HIF-1α, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6, possibly through suppressing the p38/ERK/JNK/NF-κB-p65/COX2 pathways, and thereby reduces the damage to IR hepatic cells.

ANTIHYPERLIPIDEMIC ACTIVITY OF ECLIPTA ALBA IN HIGH FAT DIET-INDUCED HYPERLIPIDEMIC ALBINO RATS

Objective: The objective is to study the antihyperlipidemic activity of Eclipta alba in hyperlipidemic albino rats and the use of herbal plants and their parts such as seeds, berries, leaves, roots, barks, or flowers for the development of drugs for therapeutic purposes which have an effective role in recent years.&#x0D; Methods: A total of 30 adult albino rats of Wistar strain weighing 165–215 g were utilized. Animals were treated with high fat diet for 8 weeks followed by post-treatment of E. alba for 1 week, 2 weeks, and 3 weeks, respectively. After 12 h of fasting on the last day of experiment, serum blood samples were collected in EDTA vials and processed for biochemical analysis.&#x0D; Results: A significant decrease in levels of total cholesterol and triglycerides was noted on animals treated with E. alba compared to high fat diet animals. Treatment of hypercholesterolemic rats with E. alba showed a marked decrease of serum low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and very LDL-cholesterol concentrations compared to the hypercholesterolemic rats. High fat diet feeding worsened the levels of serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase, serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase, and alkaline phosphatase enzymes, whereas the same markers were significantly improved by supplementation with E. alba compared to normal group.&#x0D; Conclusion: E. alba acts as antihyperlipidemic agent in hyperlipidemic conditions and helps for better health.

Bioaccumulation and Toxicity Studies of Lead and Mercury in Laying Hens: Effects on Laying Performance, Blood Metabolites, Egg Quality and Organ Parameters.

This study investigated bioaccumulation and toxicity derived from heavy metals in laying hens. The 160 52-week old laying hens were divided into 5 treatments with 8 replicates of 4 birds per pen. The treatments consisted of the control diet (without heavy metals), control diet with half the available dosage (AD, 5 ppm lead and 0.2 ppm mercury), AD (10 ppm lead and 0.4 ppm mercury), 2-fold AD (20 ppm lead and 0.8 ppm mercury), and 3-fold AD (30 ppm lead and 1.2 ppm mercury), and were provided to the laying hens for 8 weeks. Food and water were provided on an ad libitum basis at all times. Body weight and food intake were recorded once every two weeks, and eggs were collected and recorded daily. Two birds from each pen were euthanized to collect blood and organ samples on week 4 and 8. The 3-fold AD diet reduced food intake compared to that of the control and AD diets (P<0.05). Hens fed the half AD diet had darker yolk compared to those fed the control and AD diet on week 4 (P<0.05). Hens fed the 2- and 3-fold AD diets had increased relative liver weight, blood glutamic pyruvic transaminase and glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase levels (P<0.05), while F1 follicle weights decreased on week 4 and 8. No difference was found in egg production rate, egg quality, ovarian follicle, blood metabolites including protein, globulin, albumin, and urea nitrogen throughout the study (P>0.05). Heavy metal concentrations in the liver, eggs, and feathers were not detected at both week 4 and 8. Our results indicate that in-feed heavy metals for layer diets up to 30 ppm of lead and 1.2 ppm of mercury brought on hepatic dysfunction increasing blood metabolites that are associated with liver inflammation.