Malonyldialdehyde Levels Research Articles

Connexin40 correlates with oxidative stress in brains of traumatic brain injury rats.

Oxidative stress is an important factor in the pathophysiologic changes after traumatic brain injury (TBI). Connexin43 (Cx43) was reported to contribute to cerebral damage. However, the impacts of Cx40 have not been investigated in detail. In the present study, we hypothesized that Cx40 was involved in oxidative stress-induced brain injury after TBI. The controlled cortical impact (CCI) model was introduced to Wistar rats as a TBI model. Neurological deficits, oxidative stress and Cx40 were evaluated in TBI rats and N-acetylcysteine (NAC)-treated TBI rats. Neurological severity score (NSS) was used to assess neurological deficits. Brain infarction was measured by histo-staining. Brain edema was evaluated by measuring the brain water content. Cortex samples were collected to measure the tissue levels of malonyldialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO) and glutathione (GSH) and NADPH oxidase activity. Cx40 expression was determined by Western-blot. TBI-induced brain injuries gradually increased from 6 h to 24 h post CCI, and the severity remained till 72 h. The level of oxidative stress was consistent with the extent of neurological deficits. Cx40 was upregulated after TBI in a linear correlated manner with increased oxidative stress. With NAC intervention, both neurological deficits and oxidative stress were significantly attenuated. Meanwhile, elevated Cx40 expression in cortex was also prevented by NAC treatment. These studies revealed the relationship between levels of Cx40 and oxidative stress after TBI. The cortex Cx40 expression was positively correlated with the cerebral oxidative stress, indicating the involvement of Cx40 in the progress of brain damage.

EVALUATING THE ANTI-STRESS POTENTIAL OF PROPOFOL IN ROAD TRANSPORTATION WELFARE USING BIO-MARKERS IN WEST AFRICAN DWARF GOATS

Sixteen apparently healthy West African dwarf bucks were used in the study. They were randomly grouped into four with four animals each. Group one untreated non transported (non stressed control) control, group two was administered with propofol at 5mg/Kg intramuscularly , group three was administered with ascorbic acid 500mg/kg intramuscularly and group four non treated stressed control. Animals were carefully loaded in an open vehicle. The floor of the vehicle was cushioned to avoid the animals from sliding and injury. Then animals were subjected to a journey of 2hours at a speed of 40 kg/hr. Blood for haemotological analysis for full blood count was collected in bottles containing EDTA (ethylene diaminetetraacetic acid). While samples for assay of antioxidative enzymes were collected in bottles containing lithium heparin. The blood was also analysed superoxide dismutase (SOD), malonyldialdehyde (MDA), and glutathione -s- transferase (GST) respectively, using commercial Randox® kit. The packed cell volume (PCV) showed significantly (P<0.05) higher PCV in the groups treated with propofol, ascorbic acid and none-stress control midway into the journey. The neutrophils –lymphocytes ratio (N: L) levels in was significantly higher at prior the journey. The levels of MDA were significantly (P<0.05) higher prior and at the end of the journey phases in the propofol treated group. The ascorbic acid group showed significantly (P<0.05) higher level of MDA at the mid phase of the journey. While the GST levels prior to journey were significantly (P<0.05) higher compare to the other phases in the propofol and ascorbic acid treated groups and none treated stressed control. In the SOD level was significantly (P<0.05) higher prior stage of the journey in the propofol treated group. this infer that propofol possess antistress effect and could be used to improve animal welfare at transportation. Conclusively, the propofol possess antistress effect that is similar in mechanism to ascorbic acid and could be used in amelioration of stress in short term stress in animals. It however advised that the withdrawal period of the drug is adhered to prevent residue of drug in the meat product.

HISTOPATHOLOGICAL, CLINICO-BIOCHEMICAL AND THERAPEUTIC STUDIES ON DIFFERENT TYPES OF MANGE IN DOMESTIC RABBITS

Mange is one of the serious injuries caused by Ectoparasites like Sarcoptes scabiei and Psoroptes cuniculi and the most frequently found in rabbit farms and results in considerable loss of weight, productivity, and fur quality. Several strategies have been proposed for the treatment of mange caused by these mites, ranging from the use of acaricides, drugs and chemicals such as ivermectin, which involves disadvantages including genotoxic and cytotoxic effects, resistance and environmental damage. In this study, we examined the oxidative status of the peripheral blood of rabbits infested with Psoroptes cuniculi and Sarcoptes scabiei and investigated the pathogenesis of this disease. Moreover, comparative study between the the therapeutic effects of topical application of propolis ointment 10 % and subcutaneously injected ivermectin in naturally infested rabbits with Sarcoptes scabiei and Psoroptes cuniculi was done. Parasitological examination of ear wax and body scraping revealed the presence of living movable stages of both Sarcoptic and Psoroptic mites. However, microscopical examination of skin scraping and ear wax collected from treated rabbits after 10 days post treatment were negative for adult mites and its developmental stages. Hematological analysis revealed that RBCs count and PCV % values in infested rabbits were decreased significantly (P<0. 05) (2.2 ± 0.1) and (14 ± 2.3) respectively than control group (4.8 ± 0.2) and (31.8 ± 3.8) respectively. Treatment with ivermectin and propolis were restored both RBCs count and PCV % values significantly (4.3 ± 0.2) and (21.5 ± 2.2) respectively. Levels of lipid peroxides and malonyldialdehyde (MDA) were significantly higher in the mange infested rabbits compared with the healthy controls while those of the antioxidant enzymes glutathione-S-transferase (GST), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were significantly lower. Treatment with ivermectin and propolis recovered these peroxides and antioxidant enzymes to approximately normal level. Regarding biochemical analysis, the levels of Aspartate Amino Transferase (AST) and Alanine Amino Transferase (ALT) in rabbits treated with ivermectin and propolis were decreased significantly (P<0.05) than those of rabbits of the positive control group. Histopathological examination of skin of infested rabbits revealed hyperkeratosis, acanthosis, subepidermal dermatitis and leukocytic infiltrations. Treated groups showed improvement in skin lesions manifested by reduction or absence of scales and mite stages. It was concluded that significant alteration of oxidant/antioxidant balance is a factor in the pathogenesis of mange infestation of rabbits, and recovery can be enhanced by ivermectin treatment and topical application of propolis.

Endothelial Progenitor Cells Correlated with Oxidative Stress after Mild Traumatic Brain Injury.

PurposeEndothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) play a key role in tissue repair and regeneration. Previous studies have shown that infusion of human umbilical cord blood-derived endothelial colony-forming cells improves outcomes in mice subjected to experimental traumatic brain injury (TBI). However, the efficiency of cell transplantation is not satisfactory. Oxidative stress plays a significant role in the survival of transplanted cells following ischemic reperfusion injury. This observational clinical study investigated the correlation between the number of circulating EPCs and plasma levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malonyldialdehyde (MDA).Materials and MethodsPeripheral blood samples were collected from 20 patients with mild TBI at day-1, day-2, day-3, day-4, and day-7 post TBI. The number of circulating EPCs and the plasma levels of SOD and MDA were measured.ResultsThe average of circulating EPCs in TBI patients decreased initially, but increased thereafter, compared with healthy controls. Plasma levels of SOD in TBI patients were significantly lower than those in healthy controls at day-4 post-TBI. MDA levels showed no difference between the two groups. Furthermore, when assessed on day-7 post-TBI, the circulating EPC number were correlated with the plasma levels of SOD and MDA.ConclusionThese results suggest that the number of circulating EPCs is weakly to moderately correlated with plasma levels of SOD and MDA at day-7 post-TBI, which may offer a novel antioxidant strategy for EPCs transplantation after TBI.

Effect of daidzein on cisplatin-induced hematotoxicity and hepatotoxicity in experimental rats.

Objective:The objective of the study was to investigate the effect of daidzein flavonoid on cisplatin (CP)-induced hematotoxicity and hepatotoxicity in experimental rats.Materials and Methods:The Wistar rats were randomly divided into four equal groups: Normal (saline 1 ml p.o.), CP (7.5 mg/kg once intraperioteneally on 16th day), test group of low dose (combination of CP and daidzein 20 mg/kg p.o. for 21 days), and test group of high dose (combination of CP and daidzein 40 mg/kg p.o. for 21 days). Blood samples were collected on 22nd day from each rat and subjected for evaluation of hematological parameters such as red blood corpuscles (RBC), white blood corpuscles, hemoglobin (Hb) and platelets, and serum biomarkers such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). Liver of each rat was excised and subjected for antioxidants evaluation such as malonyl dialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and histopathological study.Results:Daidzein had a significant (P < 0.001) beneficial role in CP-induced hemotoxicity by increasing RBC, Hb, packed cell volume, and platelets. Daidzein also exhibited a significant (P < 0.001) protection against CP-induced hepatotoxicity by decreasing ALT, AST, ALP, and MDA level and by elevating the GSH, SOD, and catalase.Conclusions:Daidzein attenuates CP-induced oxidative stress on blood cells and antioxidants in rats.

Oxymatrine Ameliorates Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiotoxicity in Rats

Background/Aims: Doxorubicin-induced cardiac toxicity has been a major concern of oncologists and is considered the main restriction on its clinical application. Oxymatrine has shown potent anti-cancer, anti-fibrosis, and anti-oxidative effects. Recently, it has been reported that oxymatrine is protective against some cardiovascular diseases. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of oxymatrine on doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity in rat hearts and H9c2 cells. Methods: Creatine Kinase - MB (CK-MB) and Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) levels were determined using commercial kits. Biochemical indices reflecting oxidative stress, such as catalase (CAT), malonyldialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) were also analyzed with commercial kits. Mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) 2’,7’-dichlorofluorescin diacetate (DCFH-DA) was measured by fluorescence microscopy. Histological analyses were conducted to observe morphological changes, and apoptosis was measured using a commercial kit. Western blots were used to detect the level of expression of cleaved caspase-3. Results: Doxorubicin treatment significantly increased oxidative stress levels, as indicated by catalase, malonyldialdehyde, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and reactive oxygen species. Doxorubicin also increased pathological damage in myocardial tissue, myocardial ROS levels, and malonyldialdehyde levels, and induced apoptosis in myocardial tissues and H9c2 cells. All of these doxorubicin-induced effects were attenuated by oxymatrine. Conclusion: These in vitro and in vivo findings indicate that oxymatrine may be a promising cardioprotective agent against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity, at least in part mediated through oxymatrine’s inhibition of cardiac apoptosis and oxidative stress.

Study of serum malonyldialdehyde (marker of lipid peroxidation) and paraoxonase-1 in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients with alterations in their lipid profile in Muzaffarnagar region

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a term for a group of diseases that affects lung. Objective: Objective of our study was to evaluate paraoxonase-1 (PON1) activity, malonyldialdehyde (MDA) and lipid profile in COPD patients and healthy control. Materials and Methods: Serum MDA and PON1 level were measured by Kei Satoh and arylesterase method, where lipid profile was determined by biochemistry fully autoanalyzer (CPC TurboChem 100). Results: The mean level of (marker of oxidative stress malonyldialdehyde) MDA was profoundly higher in cases (P < 0.0001) as compared to control group. The antioxidant enzyme PON1 were lower (P < 0.0001) in cases than control. The mean levels of total cholesterol, triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), very LDL were significantly higher in cases as compared to control group. The mean level of high-density lipoprotein was lower in COPD patients as compared to control group. Conclusion: Our results concluded that the reduction in PON1 activity could reflect oxidative changes of enzyme free cysteine residues.

EXPERIMENTAL STUDY ON EFFECT OF NICOTINE INTAKE ON IMPACT OF BONE MICROSTRUCTURE AND OXIDATIVE STRESS IN RATS

To evaluate the influence of nicotine intake on bone microstructure, bone biomechanics, and oxidative stress state in rats. Thirty-six 6-week-old male Sprague Dawley rats (weight, 160-180 g) were randomly divided into control group, low dose group, and high dose group, 12 rats each group. The rats in high dose group and low dose group were given respectively 6.0 mg/kg and 0.4 mg/kg nicotine gavage intervention for 12 months; no intervention was made in the control group. The survival of rats was observed during experiment, and the weight of rats was measured every month. At 12 months after modeling, the L1 vertebral body was harvested to measure the bone mineral density (BMD), bone volume fraction (BVF), trabecular thickness (TT), trabecular number (TN), and trabecular spacing (TS) by Micro-CT three-dimensional reconstruction; the left femur was harvested for biomechanical tests of maximal load, stiffness, and the maximal fracture energy; and arterial blood was extracted to measure the malonyldialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and cotinine. During the experiment, two rats and one rat were added in the high dose group and the low dose group because of death, and no death in the control group. The body weight of the rats in the high and low dose groups gradually decreased with time when compared with one in the control group, and significant difference was found between two dose groups and the control group at 8-12 months (P<0.05); the body weight of the high dose group was significantly lower than that of the low dose group at 11 and 12 months (P<0.05). At 12 months after modeling, BMD, BVF, TT, and TN were significantly lower in the high dose group than the control group and the low dose group, but TS was significantly increased (P<0.05). Difference in BVF, TN, and TS was significant between the low dose group and the control group (P<0.05). The maximal load, stiffness, and maximal fracture energy of femoral shaft were significantly lower in the high dose group than the control group and the low dose group, and in the low dose group than the control group (P<0.05). Compared with the control group, the levels of cotinine and MDA were significantly increased, and the levels of CAT and SOD were significantly decreased in the high and low dose groups (P<0.05), and there were significant differences between the high and low dose groups (P<0.05). Nicotine intake can cause micro-structural changes of the bone, decreased bone mechanical properties, and imbalance of oxidation-antioxidant levels in rats. High-dose nicotine intake may be one of the causes of osteoporosis.

Evaluation of Paraoxonase, Arylesterase and Malondialdehyde Levels in Schizophrenia Patients Taking Typical, Atypical and Combined Antipsychotic Treatment.

ObjectiveHuman serum paraoxonase (PON1) prevents lipids from peroxidation and functions as an antioxidant mechanism. Malonyldialdehyde (MDA) is the final product of lipid peroxidation and can be used as an indicator of oxidative stress. The aim of this study was to investigate PON1, MDA, and arylesterase (ARY) levels in schizophrenic patients who are taking typical, atypical, or combined (typical and atypical) antipsychotic drug treatment, with respect to those of healthy controls.MethodsWe evaluated 41 patients (11 taking typical antipsychotics, 19 taking atypical antipsychotics, 11 taking combined anti-psychotics) and 43 healthy controls.ResultsMDA levels were higher in schizophrenic patients taking typical antipsychotics compared with healthy controls (p=0.001). ARY levels were higher in patients taking atypical antipsychotics compared with healthy controls (p=0.005). PON1 activity was similar in all groups.ConclusionOur results indicate that treatment with typical antipsychotic drugs could be related to increased MDA levels; and antipsychotic medication may increase PON1 levels in schizophrenic patients.

Clinical value of ganglioside combined with nalmefene on delayed encephalopathy after carbon monoxide poisoning

Objective To observe the effects of ganglioside combined with nalmefene on patients with delayed encephalopathy after carbon monoxide poisoning (DEACMP). Methods A total of 128 patients with DEACMP treated in Emergency Department from January 2012 to March 2016 were randomly divided into control group and therapy group. The control group were treated with routine treatments of ganglioside 0.1 g intramuscular injection, hyperbaric oxygen, prevention and treatment of cerebral edema and enhancement of brain cell metabolism, and the therapy group were treated with nalmefene 0.3 mg intravenous injection in addition to routine treatment. After observation for two weeks, 10 mL of venous blood were collected to detect malonyldialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX), nitric oxide (NO) and nitric oxide synthase (NOS), as well as the changes of mini-mental state examination (MMSE) were observed. T test was used to compare MMSE score, MDA, NO levels and the changes in SOD, GSH-PX and NOS activity between two groups and, the clinical efficacy of treatment was compared between prior and after treatment of two groups with chi square test. Results The total effective rate of therapy group was 84.4%, and the total effective rate of control group was 68.8%. (χ2=4.354, P=0.037). Before treatment, there were no difference in the MMSE score and plasma levels of MDA, NO, SOD, GSH-PX and NOS between two groups (P>0.05). The plasma levels of MDA, NO and NOS after treatment in control group were (4.39±1.01)μmol/L, (60.28±9.68)μmol/L, (21.46±5.53)U/mL, respectively, and those in therapy group were (3.37±0.83)μmol/L, (55.29±9.57)μmol/L, and (18.71±4.40)U/mL, respectively, which were significantly lower than those before treatment [control group(5.54±0.96)μmol/L, (68.42±12.71)μmol/L, (29.75±6.79)U/mL; therapy group: (5.48±1.16)μmol/L, (69.46±16.37)μmol/L, (30.42±7.39)U/mL] (P<0.05), and those in the treatment group was lower than those in control group (P<0.05). The MMSE and plasma levels of SOD and GSH-PX after treatment in control group were (18.30±5.91), (81.66±10.75)U/mL, (60.58±9.69)U/L, respectively, and those in therapy group were (23.85±7.21), (96.41±9.64)U/mL, (73.22±9.95)U/L, respectively which were significantly increased compared with those before treatment [control group: (8.93±2.49), (69.58±8.05)U/mL, (49.35±6.71)U/L; therapy group: (9.14±2.85), (70.41±7.30)U/mL, (48.40±7.89)U/L] (P<0.05), and the changes in therapy group were higher than those in control group (P<0.05). Conclusion Ganglioside combined with nalmefene used for the treatment of DEACMP patients in addition to the conventional treatment could effectively reduce the levels of MDA, NO and NOS, enhance the expression of SOD and GSH-PX, and improve the recovery of neurological function. The clinically therapeutic efficacy of this treatment is noticeable thus providing important evidence for clinical practice. Key words: Acute carbon monoxide poisoning; Delayed encephalopathy; Ganglioside; Nalmefene; Oxidative stress; Nitric oxide synthase

167 - New Agents for Anti-Aging and Anti-Radiation Therapy Based on the Binuclear Thionitrosyl-Iron Complexes

Aging is associated with the dysfunctions in vascular smooth muscle cells, neurotransmission, renal and immune systems, to name just a few, many of which stems from decline in reliability of the regulatory functions of nitric oxide radical (NO). Our approach to creation of a new class of agents for anti-aging and anti-radiation therapy is based on the design of the novel nitric oxide donors, i.e. – Fe-thionitrosyl complexes which are considered as long-living reservoirs and transport agents of NO in living cells. It was previously shown that such the complexes demonstrate the anti-cancer properties (Sanina, Aldoshin, 2011). Here, we present evidences of geroprotective and radioprotective effects of the synthetic NO-complex, Na2[Fe2(S2O3)2(NO)4]·4H2O (FeSNO). Wistar male rats, age of which was 24 months at the beginning of the experiments, were daily administered intraperitoneally with FeSNO, 5 mg/kg of mass in 1.0 ml of physiological solution (experimental animals) or administered with 1.0 ml of physiological solution (control animals) for 14 days. The prolonged service testing, for 605 days, has proved that the administration of rats with FeSNO gives the extended survivorship, about 30 percentages more, as compared to the control animals. Furthermore, the adult rats of age of 7-8 months were subjected to the acute irradiation with X-rays (5 Gy dose) after which the irradiated animals were intraperitoneally administered daily for 30 days with FeSNO, 5 mg/kg of mass in 1.0 ml of physiological solution (experimental animals) or with 1.0 ml of physiological solution (control animals). Thereafter, the important indicators of oxidative stress, i.e. – the level of malonyldialdehyde (MDA) and the activities of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (Cat), glutathione peroxidase (GPO) and glutathione reductase (GR) were measured in liver, heart and brain tissues of animals of both groups, the experimental and the control ones. It was revealed that the administration of FeSNO after irradiation of animals restores the negative impacts of the sublethal dose of X-rays on the level of MDA and the activities of SOD, Cat, GPO and GR in tissues of the irradiated animals. Thus, the nitrosyl complexes of iron with the functionalized sulfur-containing ligands hold considerable promise as the potential agents in creating novel drugs for anti-aging and anti-radiation medicine.

Angiotensin-I-Converting Enzyme Inhibitory Activities and In Vivo Antihypertensive Effects of Sardine Protein Hydrolysate.

In our previous study, an antihypertensive protein hydrolysate was prepared from sardine. This study aimed to investigate the composition of sardine protein hydrolysate (SPH) and it's in vivo antihypertensive effect. SPH was separated sequentially with ultrafiltration and size exclusion chromatography. Fractions with high angiotensin-I-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory activity were further analyzed with RP-HPLC and amino acids analysis. Then, SPH was individually oral administrated to spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and normotensive wistar kyoto rats (WKY) for 4 wk. After treatment, the systolic blood pressure (SBP), organindex, oxidative status, serum ACE activity, and serum angiotensin-II (ANG-II) of all the rats were determined. According to the separation and analysis results, 3 main fractions with high ACE-inhibitory activity were obtained with different amino acids composition. The animal experiments results showed that SPH could significantly reduce SBP (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01) within 4 h after a single oral administration. After a chronic oral administration, a steady state of SBP in SHR rats was attained. The heart weight index and left ventricular weight index were significantly reduced (P < 0.05) in SPH-treated SHR rats. The malonyldialdehyde (MDA) levels in organs and serum, serum ACE activity, and serum ANG-II concentration in SPH-treated SHR rats were significantly lowered (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01) as compared to their controls. Meanwhile there was no significant effect (P > 0.05) on those parameters in WKY rats. These results indicate that SPH can decrease blood pressure in SHR rats and not in WKY rats.

Effect of Electroacupuncture at Zuansanli (ST36) on Dorsal Random-Pattern Skin Flap Survival in a Rat Model

Objective/Hypothesis: Random skin flap is commonly used for wound repairing and reconstruction. Electroacupuncture at Zuansanli (ST36) could effetely activate cholinergic system and enhance skin microcirculation blood perfusion. The article aims to study the effects of electroacupuncture at Zuansanli (ST36) on random-pattern flap survival rate in a rat model. Materials and Methods: Eighteen male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into 3 groups: control group (no postoperative electroacupuncture), study A group (postoperative electroacupuncture at non-acupoint areas, 10 Hz for 30 min/d), and study B group (postoperative electroacupuncture at Zuansanli, 10 Hz for 30 min/d). The “McFarlane flap” rat models were established on the rats’ dorsum. The survival area of the reaped flaps was measured on day 7 after the operation. Inflammation reactions were evaluated by hematoxylin-eosin–stained slices, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression was determined through a streptavidin/peroxidase-based protocol. Besides, superoxide dismutase and malonyldialdehyde contents were examined by oxidase enzymatic method and thiobarbituric acid. Results: The mean survival area of the flaps in the study B group was significantly larger than those in the control group and study A group. Superoxide dismutase activity and VEGF expression increased significantly in the study B group compared with those in the control group and study A group. Malonyldialdehyde level and inflammation in the study B group were significantly decreased compared with those in the control group and study A group. Conclusions: Electroacupuncture at Zuansanli (ST36) can improve random flap survival rate effectively.

Efficacy of lycopene on modulation of renal antioxidant enzymes, ACE and ACE gene expression in hyperlipidaemic rats.

Introduction:We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of lycopene on renal tissue antioxidant enzymes and angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) gene expression and serum activity in diet-induced hyperlipidaemia.Methods:Thirty-two female Wistar albino rats (200–250 g weight), 5–6 months of age, were randomly selected and divided into four groups. Group I received normal diet; group II received 24 g high fat diet/100 g of daily diet; group III received 24 g high fat diet/100 g daily diet and 200 ml of lycopene extract (twice a week) for 8 weeks; and group IV received 200 ml oral lycopene extract twice a week for 8 weeks.Results:A marked increase was observed in plasma urea and creatinine levels, serum C-reactive protein, kidney weight, tissue renal malonyldialdehyde level, ACE gene expression and serum level, while a decrease catalase level among hyperlipidaemic rats was observed. Histologically, interstitial inflammation and proliferation was seen. Lycopene supplementation significantly decreased plasma urea and creatinine, serum ACE, renal tissue malonyldialdehyde level and C-reactive protein level, while it increased tissue antioxidant enzymes level and total protein. Tissue inflammation and proliferation was improved.Conclusions:This finding suggests that supplementation of lycopene is effective for renal antioxidant enzymes, ACE gene expression and ACE serum level in hyperlipidaemic rats.

Hepato-protective effects and chemical constituents of a bioactive fraction of the traditional compound medicine-Gurigumu-7.

BackgroundGurigumu-7 is an important traditional Mongolian medicine frequently used for liver diseases. However, the pharmacological effects and the bioactive constituents are not well understood.MethodThis research was to use CCl4-induced liver damage in mice to investigate the hepatoprotective effects of Gurigumu-7 and the methanol eluted fraction from a DIAION column of an extract of Gurigumu-7 (MF). The chemical constituents of MF were analyzed by UPLC-MS.ResultsPretreated orally with MF (66, 132 and 264 mg/kg) once a day for 4 days dose-dependently suppressed CCl4-induced mice liver histopathological changes and serum aminotransferase activities (alanine transaminase: 1144.0 ± 787.2 v.s. 2461.8 ± 1072.7 U/L, p < 0.05; aspartate transaminase: 1173 ± 785.3 v.s. 2506.6 ± 1140.7 U/L, p < 0.01). MF treated group demonstrated increased levels of SOD (108.19 ± 30.32 v.s. 75.75 ± 5.37 U/mg protein, p < 0.01) but decreased levels of malonyldialdehyde (7.68 ± 1.95 v.s. 44.32 ± 16.68 nmol/mg protein, p < 0.01) compared to the CCl4 control group. More than 30 chemical constituents were quantified, and MF was found to be rich in ellagic acid (297.97 mg/g), luteolin and its glucosides (35.10 mg/g), apigenin and its glucosides (>30 mg/g), ursolic acid (14.91 mg/g), bidenoside C (8.75 mg/g), and proanthocyanidins (15.64 mg/g in proanthocyanidin A2 equivalent).ConclusionThe methanol eluted fraction (MF) from a DIAION column of an extract of the Mongolian medicine-Gurigumu-7 was found to be more hepatoprotective than Gurigumu-7. The results suggested that MF is a promising bioactive fraction for the development of new hepatoprotective medicine with better formulation and quality control properties.

The experimental study of the effect of Dracaena cochinchinesis (Lour.) S. C. Chen on survival of random skin flaps in rats

Objective To study the influence of Dracaena cochinchinesis (Lour.) S. C. Chen on the survival of random skin flap in rats. Methods A 7.0 cm×1.5 cm random pattern skin flap was lifted on the back of 30 male Sprague Dawley rats, and then orthotopically sutured. These rats were randomly divided into two groups: the model group and Dracaena cochinchinesis (Lour.) S. C. Chen group (DC group). Rats in the DC group were given Dracaena cochinchinesis (Lour.) S. C. Chen suspended in 0.5% sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (8 g/kg) by intragastric administration. Rats in the model group were given sodium carboxymethyl cellulose solution of the same volume. The flap survival rate was measured 7 days after model creation. Flap tissues were sampled for histological sections and HE staining to observe microvessel density. The levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), malonyldialdehyde (MDA), epidermal growth factor (EGF), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were detected. Results The survival rate of flaps in the DC group was (67.91±6.81)%, being significantly higher than that in the model group which was (49.65±9.39)%. Histological observations showed that, compared to tissues in the model group, tissues in the DC group had significantly reduced neutrophils infiltrating, better dermal integrity, and more vascular and fibroblast regeneration. Tissues in the DC group also had higher content of SOD and EGF and lower MDA level compared to tissues in the model group. However, there was no difference between the VEGF levels in the two groups. Conclusion Dracaena cochinchinesis (Lour.) S. C. Chen can improve the survival rate of random skin flap. Its mechanism is related to free radical scavenging, lipid peroxidation reduction, and enhanced angiogenesis and improved blood supply. Key words: Surgical flaps; Rats; Dracaena cochinchinesis (Lour.) S. C. Chen

Effect of hyperbaric oxygen on lipid peroxidation and visual development in neonatal rats with hypoxia-ischemia brain damage.

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) on lipid peroxidation and visual development in a neonatal rat model of hypoxic-ischemic brain damage (HIBD). The rat models of HIBD were established by delayed uterus dissection and were divided randomly into two groups (10 rats each): HIBD and HBO-treated HIBD (HIBD+HBO) group. Another 20 rats that underwent sham-surgery were also divided randomly into the HBO-treated and control groups. The rats that underwent HBO treatment received HBO (0.02 MPa, 1 h/day) 24 h after the surgery and this continued for 14 days. When rats were 4 weeks old, their flash visual evoked potentials (F-VEPs) were monitored and the ultrastructures of the hippocampus were observed under transmission electron microscope. The levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malonyldialdehyde (MDA) in the brain tissue homogenate were detected by xanthine oxidase and the thiobarbituric acid colorimetric method. Compared with the control group, the ultrastructures of the pyramidal neurons in the hippocampal CA3 area were distorted, the latencies of F-VEPs were prolonged (P<0.01) and the SOD activities were lower while the MDA levels were higher (P<0.01) in the HIBD group. No significant differences in ultrastructure, the latency of F-VEPs or SOD/MDA levels were identified between the HBO-treated HIBD group and the normal control group (P>0.05). HBO enhances antioxidant capacity and reduces the ultrastructural damage induced by hypoxic-ischemia, which may improve synaptic reconstruction and alleviate immature brain damage to promote the habilitation of brain function.

Mixture of Peanut Skin Extract and Fish Oil Improves Memory in Mice via Modulation of Anti-Oxidative Stress and Regulation of BDNF/ERK/CREB Signaling Pathways.

Long-term use of fish oil (FO) is known to induce oxidative stress and increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease in humans. In the present study, peanut skin extract (PSE), which has strong antioxidant capacity, was mixed with FO to reduce its side effects while maintaining its beneficial properties. Twelve-week Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) mice were used to conduct animal behavior tests in order to evaluate the memory-enhancing ability of the mixture of peanut skin extract and fish oil (MPF). MPF significantly increased alternations in the Y-maze and cognitive index in the novel object recognition test. MPF also improved performance in the water maze test. We further sought to understand the mechanisms underlying these effects. A significant decrease in superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and an increase in malonyldialdehyde (MDA) in plasma were observed in the FO group. The MPF group showed reduced MDA level and increased SOD activity in the plasma, cortex and hippocampus. Furthermore, the gene expression levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and cAMP responsive element-binding protein (CREB) in the hippocampus were increased in the MPF group, while phosphorylation of protein kinase B (AKT), extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and CREB in the hippocampus were enhanced. MPF improves memory in mice via modulation of anti-oxidative stress and activation of BDNF/ERK/CREB signaling pathways.

Effects of Silk Sericin on Incision Wound Healing in a Dorsal Skin Flap Wound Healing Rat Model.

BackgroundThe wound healing process is complex and still poorly understood. Sericin is a silk protein synthesized by silk worms (Bombyx mori). The objective of this study was to evaluate in vivo wound healing effects of a sericin-containing gel formulation in an incision wound model in rats.Material/MethodsTwenty-eight Wistar-Albino rats were divided into 4 groups (n=7). No intervention or treatment was applied to the Intact control group. For other groups, a dorsal skin flap (9×3 cm) was drawn and pulled up with sharp dissection. The Sham operated group received no treatment. The Placebo group received placebo gel without sericin applied to the incision area once a day from day 0 to day 9. The Sericin Group 3 received 1% sericin gel applied to the incision area once a day from day 0 to day 9. Hematoxylin and eosin stain was applied for histological analysis and Mallory-Azan staining was applied for histoimmunochemical analysis of antibodies and iNOS (inducible nitric oxide synthase), and desmin was applied to paraffin sections of skin wound specimens. Parameters of oxidative stress were measured in the wound area.ResultsEpidermal thickness and vascularization were increased, and hair root degeneration, edema, cellular infiltration, collagen discoloration, and necrosis were decreased in Sericin group in comparison to the Placebo group and the Sham operated group. Malonyldialdehyde (MDA) levels were decreased, but superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities were increased in the sericin group.ConclusionsWe found that sericin had significant positive effects on wound healing and antioxidant activity. Sericin-based formulations can improve healing of incision wounds.

Protein Damage and Antioxidant Status Alterations Caused by Oxidative Injury in Chronic Myeloid Leukemia

Objective: To evaluate the oxidative stress and antioxidant defense in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia.Background: Chronic myeloid leukemia is a myeloproliferative disorder associated with a characteristic chromosomal translocation called the Philadelphia chromosome. Reactive oxygen species and other free radicals mediate phenotypic and genotypic changes leading from mutation to neoplasia in all cancers, including chronic myeloid leukemia. We evaluated patients with chronic myeloid leukemia by observing their oxidative status and antioxidant defense.Methods: Using serum from 40 clinically diagnosed cases of chronic myeloid leukemia as well as 40 healthy controls, we measured the concentration of thiobarbituric acid, levels of protein carbonylation, total antioxidant status, catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, vitamins A and E, and the trace elements zinc, magnesium, and selenium. Results: We found significantly increased levels of serum malonyldialdehyde and protein carbonyl in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia in comparison to healthy individuals, and significantly decreased levels of the antioxidants and micronutrients thiobarbituric acid, catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, vitamins A and E, zinc, magnesium, and selenium. These data suggest cellular damage occurring at the level of lipids and proteins.Conclusion: These findings indicate a link between low levels of antioxidants and cellular damage in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia, supporting the idea that oxidative stress may play a role in the pathogenesis of chronic myeloid leukemia.