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Anti-inflammatory, Antipyretic, and Antinociceptive Effects of a Cressa cretica Aqueous Extract.

Cressa cretica is a widely grown halophytic plant traditionally used for the treatment of different ailments. Previous investigations reported its biological activity on a wide spectrum of diseases. In this study, in vivo antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic activities of C. cretica aqueous extract whole plant were evaluated. In addition, the total polyphenol content, the total flavonoid content, and the chemical characterization of the extract were performed. C. cretica showed writhing inhibition in acetic acid-induced peripheral nociception of 43 and 48 % at doses of 50 and 100 mg/kg, respectively. The same doses increased latency time in a hot plate model of central analgesia by 66 and 78 % compared to the control group, respectively. The acute anti-inflammatory effect of the extract was explored in the carrageenan-induced rat hind paw test. The inhibition of paw volume was better than that of the standard drug indomethacin. C. cretica significantly decreased rectal temperature in the rats injected with Brewer's yeast. C. cretica aqueous extract showed both central and peripheral antinociceptive activities and was effective as an anti-inflammatory and antipyretic. Phenolic compounds, including chlorogenic acids and flavonol glycosides, were identified by HPLC-PDA-ESI-MS techniques. These findings indicate the medicinal importance of this traditionally used plant as a therapeutic remedy for different ailments.

The effects of co-administration of pregabalin and vitamin E on neuropathic pain induced by partial sciatic nerve ligation in male rats.

This study was performed to evaluate the effect of pregabalin co-administration with vitamin E in Partial Sciatic Nerve Ligation (PSNL)-induced neuropathic pain in rats. Male Wistar rats were randomly allocated as control, sham, and PSNL groups (n=8). PSNL was induced by tight ligation of the sciatic nerve with a copper wire. On day 14th, the PSNL and sham operated rats received either pregabalin (1, 3, and 30mg/kg), vitamin E (100 and 200mg/kg), or their combination intraperitoneally. An antinociceptive effect was evaluated as latency times and Maximum possible Effect Percent (%MPE) using tail-flick test. Locomotor activity was evaluated by open-field test before PSNL surgery and then twice at the 14th days (before and after drug injection). Ligated nerves were removed on the 28th days after surgery for histological examinations. The time course of latency times and %MPE showed significant decrease in PSNL but not in sham and control groups. Pregabalin (3 and 30mg/kg) and vitamin E (100 and 200mg/kg) caused significant increases in latency time in PSNL (but not sham) group compared to control group. Vitamin E 200mg/kg increased significantly %MPE in PSNL group compared to sham group. In addition, the %MPE following combination treatment of pregabalin (30mg/kg) and vitamin E (100mg/kg) was significantly higher than both vitamin E and control group. Also combination of pregabalin with 100mg/kg of vitamin E reversed Wallerian degeneration of sciatic nerve and the inflammatory responses to almost similar to sham group. Pregabalin and vitamin E did not affect locomotor activity. Our results showed antinociceptive effects of both vitamin E and pregabalin alone or in combination in PSNL rats and also neuroprotective properties without affecting locomotor activity.

Effect of Environmental Factors on Depressive-like Behavior and Memory Function in Adolescent Rats

Purpose: The aim of this study was to identify the effects of environmental factors on depressive-like behavior and memory function during adolescence. We performed behavior tests in adolescent rats exposed to environmental enrichment, handling, and social deprivation for eight weeks. Methods: Wistar rats were randomly assigned to control, environmental enrichment, handling, and social deprivation groups at the age of four weeks. Results: In the forced swim test, the immobility time in the environmental enrichment group was decreased than that in the control group (p=.038), while the immobility time in the social deprivation group was increased than that in the control group (p=.035), the environmental enrichment group (p<.001), and the handling group (p=.001). In the Morris water maze test, the social deprivation group had an increased latency time than the control group (p=.013) and the environmental enrichment group (p=.001). In the passive avoidance test, the environmental enrichment group had an increased latency time than the control group (p=.005). However, the social deprivation group had reduced latency time than the socially housed groups (control: p=.030; environmental enrichment: p<.001; handling: p<.001). Conclusion: These findings suggest that environmental factors play an important role in emotion and memory function during adolescence. Key Words: Adolescent; Social environment; Depression; Cognition 국문주요어: ì²­ì†Œë „, ì‚¬íšŒì  환경, 우울, 인지

Biflorin Ameliorates Memory Impairments Induced by Cholinergic Blockade in Mice.

To examine the effect of biflorin, a component of Syzygium aromaticum, on memory deficit, we introduced a scopolamine-induced cognitive deficit mouse model. A single administration of biflorin increased latency time in the passive avoidance task, ameliorated alternation behavior in the Y-maze, and increased exploration time in the Morris water maze task, indicating the improvement of cognitive behaviors against cholinergic dysfunction. The biflorin-induced reverse of latency in the scopolamine-treated group was attenuated by MK-801, an NMDA receptor antagonist. Biflorin also enhanced cognitive function in a naïve mouse model. To understand the mechanism of biflorin for memory amelioration, we performed Western blot. Biflorin increased the activation of protein kinase C-ζ and its downstream signaling molecules in the hippocampus. These results suggest that biflorin ameliorates drug-induced memory impairment by modulation of protein kinase C-ζ signaling in mice, implying that biflorin could function as a possible therapeutic agent for the treatment of cognitive problems.

In vitro and in vivo assessment of meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria) as anti-inflammatory agent

Ethnopharmacological relevanceMeadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria (L.) Maxim, Rosaceae) has been traditionally used in most European countries for the treatment of inflammatory diseases due to its antipyretic, analgesic, astringent, and anti-rheumatic properties. However, there is little scientific evidence on F. ulmaria anti-inflammatory effects regarding its impact on cyclooxygenases enzymatic activity and in vivo assessment of anti-inflammatory potential. This study aims to reveal the anti-inflammatory activity of methanolic extracts from the aerial parts (FUA) and roots (FUR) of F. ulmaria, both in in vitro and in vivo conditions. Materials and methodsThe characteristic phenolic compounds in F. ulmaria extracts were monitored via high performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC). The in vitro anti-inflammatory activity of F. ulmaria extracts was evaluated using cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) enzyme assays, and an assay for determining COX-2 gene expression. The in vivo anti-inflammatory effect of F. ulmaria extracts was determined in two doses (100 and 200 mg/kg b.w.) with hot plate test and carrageenan-induced paw edema test in rats. Inflammation was also evaluated by histopathological and immunohistochemical analysis. ResultsFUA extract showed the presence of rutoside, spiraeoside, and isoquercitrin. Both F. ulmaria extracts at a concentration of 50μg/mL were able to inhibit COX-1 and -2 enzyme activities, whereby FUA extract (62.84% and 46.43% inhibition, respectively) was double as effective as the root extract (32.11% and 20.20%, respectively). Extracts hardly inhibited the level of COX-2 gene expression in THP-1 cells at a concentration of 25μg/mL (10.19% inhibition by FUA and 8.54% by FUR). In the hot plate test, both extracts in two doses (100 and 200mg/kg b.w.), exhibited an increase in latency time when compared with the control group (p<0.05). In the carrageenan-induced acute inflammation test, FUA at doses of 100 and 200mg/kg b.w., and FUR at 200mg/kg, were able to significantly reduce the mean maximal swelling of rat paw until 6h of treatment. Indomethacin, FUA, and FUR extracts significantly decreased inflammation score and this effect was more pronounced after 24h, compared to the control group (p<0.05). ConclusionsThe observed results of in vitro and, for the first time, in vivo anti-inflammatory activity of meadowsweet extracts, provide support of the traditional use of this plant in the treatment of different inflammatory conditions. Further investigation of the anti-inflammatory compounds could reveal the mechanism of anti-inflammatory action of these extracts.

The relationship between different types of genetically defined aggressive behavior

Aggressive behavior is not a unitary trait, and different stimuli/situations elicit different kinds of aggressive behavior. According to numerous data the genotype plays a significant role in the expression of aggressive behavior. However, it remains unclear how genetic predisposition to one kind of aggression is linked with other kinds of aggressive behavior, especially pathological aggression (infanticide). Here, we report on our investigation of the expression of defensive, offensive, predatory and asocial aggression in wild rats selectively bred for 85 generations for either a high level or a lack of aggression towards humans. We found that those rats genetically predisposed to a high level of defensive aggression showed decreased social behavior and increased pathological aggressive behavior towards juvenile males. The highly aggressive rates showed a reduced latency time of attack and an increased latency time of the first social contact. Rats genetically predisposed to defensive aggression demonstrated increased predatory aggression—latency time of muricide was shorter in highly aggressive than in tame animals. At the same time, both lines of rats did not differ significantly in intermale aggression. We conclude that the data indicate a close relation between defensive, predatory and pathological aggressive behavior that allows us to suggest that similar genetic mechanisms underlie these types of aggressive behavior.

Pharmacological Activities and Applications of Spicatoside A.

Liriopogons (Liriope and Opiopogon) species are used as a main medicinal ingredient in several Asian countries. The Liriopes Radix (tuber, root of Liriope platyphylla) has to be a promising candidate due to their source of phytochemicals. Steroidal saponins and their glycosides, phenolic compounds, secondary metabolites are considered of active constituents in Liriopes Radix. Spicatoside A, a steroidal saponin, could be more efficacious drug candidate in future. In this review, we summarized the available knowledge on phytochemical and pharmacological activities for spicatoside A. It significantly suppressed the level of NF-κB, NO, iNOS, Cox-2, IL-1β, IL-6 and MAPKs in LPS-stimulated inflammation. The production of MUC5AC mucin was increased. MMP-13 expression was down-regulated in IL-1β-treated cells and reduced glycosaminoglycan release from IL-1α-treated cells. The neurite outgrowth activity, PI3K, Akt, ERK1/2, TrkA and CREB phosphorylation and neurotropic factors such as NGF and BDNF were upregulated with increased latency time. It also showed cell growth inhibitory activity on various carcinoma cells. From this, spicatoside A exerts anti-inflammation, anti-asthma, anti-osteoclastogenesis, neurite outgrowth, memory consolidation and anticancer activities. Further studies are needed on spicatoside A in order to understand mechanisms of action to treat various human diseases.

Effect of glatiramer acetate on short-term memory impairment induced by lipopolysaccharide in male mice.

Glatiramer acetate (GA) demonstrates neuroprotective, neurogenesis, and anti-inflammatory properties. This study examines the probable protective effect of acute GA on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced memory impairment in male mice and further explores which routes of administration [subcutaneous (s.c.) or intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.)] exert optimum effect. Memory performance was evaluated in two-trial recognition Y-maze and passive-avoidance tasks evaluating special recognition memory and fear memory, respectively. Memory impairment was induced by LPS [100 μg/kg, intraperitoneally (i.p.)], 4 h before training. In Y-maze, GA (10, 2.5, 0.625, 0.153, and 0.03 mg/kg, s.c.; 250 μg/mouse; i.c.v.) was administered 10 min following LPS, and special memory was assayed in Y-maze apparatus. In passive avoidance, LPS (100, 250 μg/kg; i.p.) was injected 4 h before receiving foot shock, and GA (10, 2.5; s.c.) or (250 μg/mouse; i.c.v.) was administered 4 h before the shock. Following 24 h, the fear memory was evaluated. Memory impaired significantly following LPS (100, 250 μg/kg; i.p.) in Y-maze and passive-avoidance tasks, P < 0.001 and P < 0.05, respectively. The data revealed that GA (250 μg/mouse, i.c.v.) and GA (10, 2.5 mg/kg; s.c.) in Y-maze reversed memory impairment (LPS 100 μg/kg, i.p.) (P < 0.01). In passive-avoidance task, GA (2.5, 10 mg/kg; s.c.) reversed LPS-induced impairment and the mice showed significantly longer latency times during the retention trial (P < 0.01). GA improved memory impairment both centrally and systemically. It improved spatial recognition memory increasing the average time in the novel arm and improved fear memory increasing latency time. GA administration improved memory impairment profoundly through both systemic and central routs.

4-Phenylselenyl-7-chloroquinoline, a new quinoline derivative containing selenium, has potential antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory actions

The development of new drugs to treat painful and inflammatory clinical conditions continues to be of great interest. The present study evaluated the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects of 4-phenylselenyl-7-chloroquinoline (4-PSQ). Mice were orally (p.o.) pretreated with 4-PSQ (0.1–25mg/kg), meloxicam (25mg/kg, a reference drug) or vehicle, 30min prior to the acetic acid, formalin, hot-plate and open-field tests. 4-PSQ reduced abdominal writhing induced by acetic acid and it caused an increase in latency time in the hot-plate test. 4-PSQ inhibited early and late phases of nociception and reduced the paw edema caused by formalin. Locomotor and exploratory activities in the open field test were not altered by treatments. In addition, a time–response curve was carried out by administration of 4-PSQ (25mg/kg; p.o.) at different times before the acetic acid injection. The antinociceptive effect in inhibiting acetic acid-induced abdominal writhing of 4-PSQ started at 0.5h and remained significant up to 4h after administration. Indeed, the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of 4-PSQ were investigated. 4-PSQ diminished the edema formation and decreased the myeloperoxidase activity and reactive species levels induced by croton oil in the ear tissue. 4-PSQ partially protected against the decrease of the 2,2′-Azinobis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline 6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) levels induced by croton oil. Meloxicam presented similar results for 4-PSQ in tests evaluated. These results demonstrated that 4-PSQ exerts acute anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive actions, suggesting that it may represent an alternative in the development of future new therapeutic strategies.

Metformin pretreatment enhanced learning and memory in cerebral forebrain ischaemia: the role of the AMPK/BDNF/P70SK signalling pathway

Context Metformin induced AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and protected neurons in cerebral ischaemia.Objective This study examined pretreatment with metformin and activation of AMPK in molecular and behavioral levels associated with memory.Materials and methods Rats were pretreated with metformin (200 mg/kg) for 2 weeks and 4-vessels occlusion global cerebral ischaemia was induced. Three days after ischaemia, memory improvement was done by passive avoidance task and neurological scores were evaluated. The amount of Brain-Derived Neurotropic Factor (BDNF) and phosphorylated and total P70S6 kinase (P70S6K) were measured.Results Pretreatment with metformin (met) in the met + ischaemia/reperfusion (I/R) group reduced latency time for enter to dark chamber compared with the sham group (p < 0.001) and increased latency time compared with the I/R group (p < 0.001). Injection of Compound C (CC) (as an AMPK inhibitor) concomitant with metformin reduced latency time in I/R rats compared with the I/R + met group (p < 0.05). Neurological scores were reduced in met treated rats compared with the sham group. Pretreatment with metformin in I/R animals reduced levels of pro-BDNF compared with the I/R group (p < 0.001) but increased that compared with the sham group (p < 0.001). The level of pro-BDNF decreased in the met + CC + I/R group compared with the met + I/R group (p < 0.01). Pretreatment with metformin in I/R animals significantly increased P70S6K compared with the I/R group (p < 0.001).Conclusion Short-term memory in ischaemic rats treated with metformin increased step-through latency; sensory-motor evaluation was applied and a group of ischaemia rats that were pretreated with metformin showed high levels of BDNF, P70S6K that seemed to be due to increasing AMPK.

Antipyretic, analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of Kickxia ramosissima

Ethnopharmacological relevanceBranched cancerwort, Kickxia ramosissima (Wall.) Janchen (Scrophulariaceae) is traditionally used for the treatment of inflammatory disorders such as rheumatism, diabetes, jaundice and for activation of immune system. Local communities also used this plant for the treatment of spleen enlargement, as febrifuge and in dysmenorrhea. In this investigation antipyretic, analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of K. ramosissima have been evaluated. MethodsDried powder of the whole plant of K. ramosissima was extracted with methanol (KRM) and partitioned with solvents to obtain the n-hexane (KRH), chloroform (KRC), ethyl acetate (KRE), n-butanol (KRB) and the residual aqueous (KRA) fraction. KRM and the derived fractions were analyzed for the phytochemical constituents, yeast induced pyrexia, analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities by using carrageenan and Freunds' complete adjuvant-induced paw edema model in rat. On account of appreciable effects of KRM in the aforesaid models, KRM was subjected to the carrageenan induced air pouch model in rat. The exudate of air pouch was analyzed for the count of neutrophils, monocytes, lymphocytes and WBCs and for the estimation of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin (PGE2). ResultsPhytochemical investigation of KRM indicated the existence of tannins, flavonoids, alkaloids, coumarins, cardiac glycosides, saponins, terpenoids and phlobatannins. Maximum concentration of total phenolic was determined in KRB followed by KRM while reverse was true for total flavonoids contents. KRM (200mg/kg) distinctly decreased the rectal temperature in yeast induced pyrexia comparable to standard, paracetamol. Pain sensation was effectively inhibited at 200mg/kg p.o. of KRM and KRB as manifested by a decrease (P<0.001) in count of writhing induced with acetic acid and increase of latency time in hot plate. Anti-inflammatory effects of KRM were evident and edema formation induced with carrageenan and Freunds' complete adjuvant-induced paw edema in rat was significantly (P<0.001) inhibited. Count of neutrophils, monocytes, lymphocytes, and WBCs along with inflammatory mediators; IL-6, NO, TNF-α and PGE2 was significantly (P<0.001) decreased in subcutaneous air pouch exudate with KRM. HPLC analysis of KRM indicated the presence of gallic acid, caffeic acid, rutin, catechin and myricetin. ConclusionThe results suggested the anti-inflammatory effects of KRM in inflammation related disorders, might be attributed by the presence of active phytoconstituents; flavonoids, saponins and terpenoids.

Comparative animal study of the antinociceptive efficacy of lamotrigine and gabapentin for the management of pain

Pain relief using drugs with high efficacy provides significant improvement in the patients' lives. Drugs like lamotrigine (LTG) and gabapentin (GBP) have the ability to overcome the symptoms of neuropathic pain. The present study offers a comparative analysis of LTG and GBP efficacy in a rat model of nociceptive pain after single administration. Sixty-three Wistar-Bratislava rats randomized into 7 groups were included: a control group treated with saline solution and 6 groups treated with different doses of LTG and GBP. Nociceptive responses to thermal and mechanical stimulations were evaluated before and after drug administration, at different time intervals, using paw pressure and hot plate tests. The obtained data were statistically analyzed, with significance at p value < 0.05. LTG 100 mg/kg and 50 mg/kg presented a significant analgesic effect in both mechanical and thermal tests, 1 and 2 hours after administration. GBP 100 mg/kg increased latency time in hot plate test. The effect of both anticonvulsant drugs occurred rapidly after administration, but had a short duration. LTG and GBP had an analgesic effect in a single dose administration. The effect of LTG was more evident since it was observed in both tests. Their effect was dose dependent.

Effect of Magnesium Oxide Nanoparticles on Atropine-Induced Memory Impairment in Adult Male Mice

Background: Previous studies have shown that magnesium oxide nanoparticles (MgO-n) improve passive avoidance memory in adult male mice. Alternatively, muscarinic receptors of the cholinergic system have a primary role in memory formation but their relationship with the improvement effects of magnesium on memory is not clear. Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of nano magnesium oxide on memory deficits induced by atropine as a muscarinic receptor antagonist in passive avoidance memory tests. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, NMRI male mice were placed in groups receiving atropine (0.1 and 1 mg/kg), recipient of MgO-n (1, 2.5, and 5 mg/kg) and groups receiving atropine in effective dose and different doses of MgO-n were used. Saline was used as a vehicle for drugs in the control groups. Memory was evaluated with a step-down apparatus to determine the coming down latency from a safe platform on days 1, 3, and 7 after training. Locomotor activity was also evaluated through an open field test in all groups after memory measurements. Results: The results showed that atropine (1 mg/kg) decreased the latency time of coming down from the podium and induced memory deficits (P < 0.01). MgO-n in doses of 2.5 and 5 mg/kg caused a significant increase in latency time of coming down from the podium over one week (P < 0.001). MgO-n was able to reverse memory impairments resulting from atropine (1 mg/kg) (P < 0.001). Locomotor activity did not change in any of the groups. Conclusions: It seems that the potentiating effect of MgO-n on memory is due to interference with the cholinergic pathway.

Temperature-dependent effects of PFOS on risk recognition and fast-start performance in juvenile Spinibarbus sinensis

AB Aquatic Biology Contact the journal Twitter RSS Mailing List Subscribe to our mailing list via Mailchimp HomeLatest VolumeAbout the JournalEditorsTheme Sections AB 24:101-108 (2015) - DOI: https://doi.org/10.3354/ab00640 Temperature-dependent effects of PFOS on risk recognition and fast-start performance in juvenile Spinibarbus sinensis Ji-Gang Xia, Yi-Jie Ma, Wu-Mei Guo, Li Huang, Shi-Jian Fu* Laboratory of Evolutionary Physiology and Behavior, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Animal Biology, College of Life Sciences, Chongqing Normal University, 401331 Chongqing, PR China *Corresponding author: shijianfu9@hotmail.com ABSTRACT: Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) is a synthetic chemical substance that has become a ubiquitous environmental contaminant. It has been used in both industrial and consumer applications for over 50 yr, resulting in high levels of contamination worldwide. The potential ecotoxicity of PFOS has recently become a focus of interest and concern. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of PFOS on risk recognition and escape performance of juvenile qingbo Spinibarbus sinensis. Fish were exposed to a range of PFOS concentrations (0, 0.32, 0.8, 2 and 5 mg l-1) at different temperatures (18 and 28°C) for 4 wk, at which point their antipredator behavior and fast-start swimming performance were assessed. We found that PFOS exposure caused qingbo to increase the time they spent in the ‘risky area’ (the area of the experimental aquarium closest to the predator tank) and reduce their average distance from the predator, as well as resulting in a noticeable increase in latency time and a significant decline in maximum linear velocity, maximum linear acceleration and escape distance. Many of these effects were more pronounced at the higher temperature. Our results indicate that exposure to PFOS could have deleterious effects on survival-related behavior in fish. KEY WORDS: Risk recognition · Fast-start · Ecotoxicology · Perfluorooctane sulfonate · PFOS · Temperature Full text in pdf format PreviousNextCite this article as: Xia JG, Ma YJ, Guo WM, Huang L, Fu SJ (2015) Temperature-dependent effects of PFOS on risk recognition and fast-start performance in juvenile Spinibarbus sinensis. Aquat Biol 24:101-108. https://doi.org/10.3354/ab00640 Export citation RSS - Facebook - Tweet - linkedIn Cited by Published in AB Vol. 24, No. 2. Online publication date: November 02, 2015 Print ISSN: 1864-7782; Online ISSN: 1864-7790 Copyright © 2015 Inter-Research.

Zinc Chloride and Lead Acetate-Induced Passive Avoidance Memory Retention Deficits Reversed by Nicotine and Bucladesine in Mice.

It is very important to investigate the neurotoxic effects of metals on learning and memory processes. In this study, we tried to investigate the effects and time course properties of oral administration of zinc chloride (25, 50, and 75mg/kg, for 2weeks), lead acetate (250, 750, 1,500, and 2,500ppm for 4, 6 and 8weeks), and their possible mechanisms on a model of memory function. For this matter, we examined the intra-peritoneal injections of nicotine (0.25, 0.5, 1, and 1.5mg/kg) and bucladesine (50, 100, 300, and 600nM/mouse) for 4days alone and in combination with mentioned metals in the step-through passive avoidance task. Control animals received saline, drinking water, saline, and DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide)/deionized water (1:9), respectively. At the end of each part of studies, animals were trained for 1day in step-through task. The avoidance memory retention alterations were evaluated 24 and 48h later in singular and combinational studies. Zinc chloride (75mg/kg) oral gavage for 2weeks decreased latency times compared to control animals. Also, lead acetate (750ppm oral administrations for 8weeks) caused significant lead blood levels and induced avoidance memory retention impairments. Four-days intra-peritoneal injection of nicotine (1mg/kg) increased latency time compared to control animals. Finally, findings of this research showed that treatment with intra-peritoneal injections of nicotine (1mg/kg) and/or bucladesine (600nM/mouse) reversed zinc chloride- and lead acetate-induced avoidance memory retention impairments. Taken together, these results showed the probable role of cholinergic system and protein kinase A pathways in zinc chloride- and lead acetate-induced avoidance memory alterations.

Effect of Electro-Acupuncture on Behavioral Changes,Aβ and LRP1 level in Cortex of APP/PS1 Transgenic Mice

Purpose: To observe the effects of EA on the expression of PS1protein level inhippocampusof SAMP8mice. Investigating themechanismof EA in therapeutic intervention of Alzheimer Disease (AD). Methods: Ten male SAMR1 mice as the Normal control group. Twenty male SAMP8 mice were randomly divided into Model group and EA group (n=10 in each group). EAwas stimulated at Baihui (GV20) andYintang (GV29) for 20min once a day (2V, 1mA). After 15 days, learning and memorizing abilities of mice were detected through Morris water maze. Observe the morphologic changes of PS1 and related metabolites in hippocampus through immunohistochemistry. Detecting PS1 level in hippocampus through Western blot method. Results: 1) Each group showed a significant difference in latency time in different days. 2) Compared with normal control group, Model group showed an increasing latency time and a decreasing swimming time to passing through the platform and quadrants (P < 0.05, P < 0.01), while EA group showed an obvious decreasing latency time (P<0.05, P < 0.01) and an increasing swimming time (P<0.01). 3) Immunohistochemical detection showedmice in EA group had a significant reduction in the expression of PS1 level in hippocampuswhile compared with theModel group. 4) Findings ofWestern blot revealed that compared with Model group, mice in Normal control group and EA group both had a reduction of PS1 content in hippocampus (P<0.05). Conclusion: EA could have a certain effect to improve the learning andmemorizing abilities of SAMP8mice and, to some extent, may be able to help prevent AD. However, the regulating effect of EA on PS1 level is much greater, this outcome could be seen as one of the mechanisms of treating AD. Contact: Jin Cao, jade cao@yeah.net

Effects of Electro-acupuncture (EA) on the Behavioral changes and presenilian-1 (PS1) level in hippocampus of SAMP8 mice

Purpose: To observe the effects of EA on the expression of PS1protein level inhippocampusof SAMP8mice. Investigating themechanismof EA in therapeutic intervention of Alzheimer Disease (AD). Methods: Ten male SAMR1 mice as the Normal control group. Twenty male SAMP8 mice were randomly divided into Model group and EA group (n=10 in each group). EAwas stimulated at Baihui (GV20) andYintang (GV29) for 20min once a day (2V, 1mA). After 15 days, learning and memorizing abilities of mice were detected through Morris water maze. Observe the morphologic changes of PS1 and related metabolites in hippocampus through immunohistochemistry. Detecting PS1 level in hippocampus through Western blot method. Results: 1) Each group showed a significant difference in latency time in different days. 2) Compared with normal control group, Model group showed an increasing latency time and a decreasing swimming time to passing through the platform and quadrants (P < 0.05, P < 0.01), while EA group showed an obvious decreasing latency time (P<0.05, P < 0.01) and an increasing swimming time (P<0.01). 3) Immunohistochemical detection showedmice in EA group had a significant reduction in the expression of PS1 level in hippocampuswhile compared with theModel group. 4) Findings ofWestern blot revealed that compared with Model group, mice in Normal control group and EA group both had a reduction of PS1 content in hippocampus (P<0.05). Conclusion: EA could have a certain effect to improve the learning andmemorizing abilities of SAMP8mice and, to some extent, may be able to help prevent AD. However, the regulating effect of EA on PS1 level is much greater, this outcome could be seen as one of the mechanisms of treating AD. Contact: Jin Cao, jade cao@yeah.net

Chronic L‐dopa Induced 5‐HT Neuron Loss and Behavioral Impairments in the Rat

L-dopa is used to treat the dopamine deficits and motor impairments in Parkinson's disease but chronic administration results in loss of drug efficacy over time and side effects such as dyskinesia and mood disorders. Serotonin (5-HT) neurons have been implicated in some of these effects as they are capable of decarboxylating L-dopa to dopamine. Further, the accumulation and degradation of dopamine within 5-HT cells results in oxidative stress and apoptosis in-vitro. To examine in-vivo if L-dopa decreases 5-HT neurons and tissue content in rat brain through pro-oxidant mechanisms with a corresponding impairment of 5HT-dependent behaviors, rats were treated chronically with L-dopa (6 mg/kg; twice daily) with or without ascorbate for 10 days. Tryptophan hydroxylase-positive (TPH+) neurons in the dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN) as well as monoamine tissue content were examined. Cognitive and affective behaviors including performance in the Barnes maze, forced swim test, elevated plus and conditioned fear test were also assessed. Chronic L-dopa significantly decreased (↓28%) TPH+ neurons in the caudal extent of the dorsal DRN (t=2.618, p<0.05). Further, 5-HT tissue content was significantly decreased in the dorsal DRN (↓23%) (q=4.8, p<0.05) and prefrontal cortex (↓28%) (q=3.42, p<0.05). Behaviorally, chronic L-dopa potentiated freezing behavior in the conditioned fear test (q=4.44, p<0.05) and increased latency time in finding the goal box during the Barnes maze (q=-2.23, p<0.05). Furthermore, the TPH+ neuron and 5-HT content decreases as well as increased freezing behaviors were all prevented by ascorbate co-treatment. Overall, these findings suggest that chronic L-dopa produces both 5-HT deficits and behavioral impairments in a pro-oxidant manner.

English

Cognitive impairment in epileptics may be a consequence of the epileptogenic process as well as antiepileptic medication. Thus, there is need for drugs, which can suppress epileptogenesis as well as prevent cognitive impairment. In the present study, the effect of piperine was evaluated on the course of pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) induced seizures, learning deficit and oxidative stress `markers in mice. Male albino mice were injected with PTZ (65 mg/kg sc) on the 5th day of the treatment for the development of seizures. Spontaneous alternation behaviour was carried out on the 1st and the 5th day of the treatment after PTZ administration, while the oxidative stress parameters (malondialdehyde and glutathione) were carried out in the whole brain upon the completion of the behavioural assessment. The administration of piperine, 2 mg/kg significantly decreased the PTZ induced seizures and showed improvement in the learning deficit induced by PTZ as evidenced by the increased latency time and frequency of jerks and improvement in spontaneous alternation behavior (SAB). The findings suggest the potential of piperine as adjuvant to antiepileptic drugs with an added advantage of preventing cognitive impairment. Key words: Cognitive impairment, piperine, pentylenetetrazole.

반하후박탕(半夏厚朴湯)의 사회·심리적 스트레스에 대한 실험적 연구(實驗的 硏究)

Objectives: This study is designed to investigate the effects of Banhahubak-Tang Extract (BHTe) on stress. Methos: BHTe was fed to ICR male mice (<TEX>$20{\pm}2g$</TEX>) orally with the dose of 100 mg/kg/day for five days. Mice were then exposed to sociopsychological stress by observing foot shock stressed mice for one hour for five days while restrained. Results: 1) The BHTe-administered group showed a tendency of decreasing of serum corticosterone secretion compared with the control group. 2) The BHTe-administered group showed an increase in noradrenalin secretions in the dorsal cortex of the brain, but it was not significant. 3) BHTe administration had no effect on the brain level of lipid peroxidation. 4) BHTe administration decreased the serum level of lipid peroxidation. 5) BHTe administration decreased the Cu,Zn-SOD in the brain. 6) BHTe administration had no effect on catalase activity in the brain. 7) BHTe administration had no effect on the brain level of GSH. 8) BHTe administration increased the serum level of DPPH free radical scavenging activity, but not significantly enough to make a comparison with BHT. 9) The elevated plus-maze test is designed to detect the effect of anxiolytic drugs. The BHTe group showed a significant increase in latency time. Conclusions: These results suggest that BHTe can effectively rid the subject of the effects of sociopsychological stress.