Normal Rat Chow Research Articles

Evaluation of the hepatotoxic potential of methanol seed kernel extract of Mangifera indica (Mango) using rat mode

The aim of this study was to evaluate the hepato-toxic potential of methanol seed kernel extract of Mangifera indica (mango). Dry mango seeds were broken to release the kernels which were subsequently dried at room temperature prior to grinding to fine powder. 500 g of powdered plant sample was developed into extract with the aid of a standard analytical procedure. Twenty (20) adult male albino rats divided into four (4) groups of five rats each. Group I (normal control) which was fed normal rat chow and water ad-libitum. Group II, III and IV were administered 100, 200 and 300 mg/kg of extract respectively for 21 days after which rats were sacrificed and blood sample collected and analysed for the activity of serum hepatomarkers ; Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) was evaluated using standard procedures. Result obtained from the study showed that administration of 100 and 200 mg/kg bw did not increase the activity of the serum hepatomarkers. However, a contrary observation was made on the activity of serum hepatomarkers in rats administered with 400 mg/kg of MSKE inferring that methanol seed kernel extract of Mangifera indica (mango) could contain a hepatotoxic agent which can only elicit damage in large doses.

Irvingia gabonensis leaf extract scavenges nitric oxide and hydrogen peroxide in vitro and modulates arsenic-induced hepatic oxidative stress in wistar rats

BackgroundArsenic is a carcinogenic heavy metal that contaminates the environment, predisposing the exposed populace to its detrimental health effects. This study investigated the liver protective effect of ethanol leaf extract of Irvingia gabonensis (ELEIG) in sodium arsenite (SA)-exposed Wistar rats and its nitric oxide (NO.) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-scavenging properties in vitro.MethodsEleven experimental groups made up of five (5) rats each (weight range 100 - 161 g) were used in this study. Group 1 (normal control) had normal rat chow and water. Group 2 received 4.1 mg/kg body weight (kgbw) of SA. Groups 3–8 received SA and graded doses of ELEIG and groups 9-11 had varied doses of ELEIG. Treatment, which spanned 14 days, was by oral gavage. Concentrations of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), malondialdehyde (MDA) as well as activities of liver enzymes (AST, ALT, ALP, and GGT) and concentrations of total bilirubin (TBIL) and direct bilirubin (DBIL) were determined using standard procedures. Standard methods were also used to determine the in vitro NO. and H2O2-scavenging properties of the extract.ResultsExposure to SA orchestrated significant (p ˂ 0.05) increases in CAT, MDA, AST, ALT, ALP and GGT and significant (p ˂ 0.05) decreases in SOD and GPx, relative to control. There were insignificant (p ˃ 0.05) differences in TBIL and DBIL concentrations, compared with control. Simultaneous and post-treatment with ELEIG at graded doses, alleviated the noxious effects of SA. In addition, ELEIG scavenged NO. and H2O2 in concentration-dependent manner.ConclusionThe results suggest that ELEIG possesses potent antioxidant property and combats SA-induced hepatic oxidative stress/toxicity in Wistar rats.

COMPARISON OF DIET INDUCED METABOLIC SYNDROME WITH ARTIFICIALLY INDUCED METABOLIC SYNDROME IN A RAT MODEL

Background: Metabolic syndrome is an emerging health problem. The diets rich in fats and refined carbohydrates and monosodium glutamate are considered major risk factors for this emerging epidemic. The aim of this study was to determine whether high fat high carbohydrate (HFHC) diet, Monosodium glutamate (MSG) diet or their combination is faster/more potent inducer of MS. Methods: Twenty male Sprague Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups. Group 1 was given normal rat chow, group 2 was given HFHC diet, group 3 was given MSG in diet and group 4 was given both HFHC and MSG in their diet for 20 weeks. Body weight, blood pressure, lipid profile and glycaemic indices were determined at the end of study. Results: After 20 weeks of study, HFHC and MSG groups showed full blown Metabolic syndrome (MS) with development of obesity, hypertension, hyperglycaemia and dyslipidemia. However, group 4 which was given combination diet did not develop features of MS. Conclusion: Both HFHC and MSG containing diets when given alone are potent inducers of MS in rat model rather than their combination. Pak J Physiol 2022;18(2):6?9

Neonatal Oral Administration of Chrysin Prevents Long-Term Development of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in a Sexually Dimorphic Manner in Fructose Nurtured Sprague Dawley Rats.

High-fructose diets are linked with the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), the management of which is a burden to society. Interventions with phytochemicals in the early postnatal period may prevent fructose-induced NAFLD later in adulthood. We investigated the protective potential of chrysin against fructose-induced NAFLD. Four-day-old male and female suckling Sprague Dawley rats (N = 112) were randomly grouped and orally gavaged daily with distilled water (negative Control-Cn + W), chrysin(Chr-100 mg/kg), fructose-solution (Fr-20% w/v), and Chr + Fr between postnatal day (PND) 4 and 21 and then weaned onto normal rat chow and plain drinking water to PND 55. From PND 56 to 130, half of the rats continued on plain water, and the rest had Fr as drinking fluid. Terminally, the liver tissue was collected, and the lipid content was determined and histologically assessed for NAFLD. Dietary Fr induced an increased hepatic lipid content (p = 0.0001 vs. Cn + W) both sexes, and it was only attenuated by neonatal Chr in female rats (p < 0.05). Histologically, there was increased microvesicular steatosis (p = 0.0001 vs. Cn + W) in both sexes, and it was prevented by neonatal Chr (p > 0.05). Fr caused macrovesicular steatosis (p = 0.01 vs. Cn + W) in females only, and chrysin did not prevent it (p > 0.05). Fr induced hepatocellular hypertrophy, and inflammation was observed in females only (p = 0.01 vs. Cn + W), and this was prevented by Chr (p > 0.05). The collagen area fraction was increased by Fr (p = 0.02 (males) and p = 0.04 (females) vs. Cn + W, respectively; however, chrysin did not prevent this (p > 0.05). Neonatal chrysin prevented some of the deleterious effects of the high-fructose diet on the liver, suggesting that chrysin should be further explored as a strategic prophylactic neonatal intervention against high-fructose-diet-induced NAFLD.

Assessment of Rats Fed Protein-Deficient Diets Supplemented with Moringa Oleifera Leaf Meal

This report is part of a larger study on bioavailability of nutrients in Moringa oleifera leaf meal (MOLM) grown in South Africa. Albino male rats were assigned into five groups each having a replicate of five; PD-protein deficient diet, PD3, PD5 and PD10 had protein insufficient diets augmented with MOLM at 3, 5 and 10% respectively, while control (C)- was fed normal rat chow, for 28 days. Growth performances were recorded weekly, blood biochemistry and histopathology of the animals were evaluated in the serum and selected organs respectively. Severe loss in body weight caused by PD was slightly ameliorated by MOLM supplementation; improved protein quality indicated by higher red blood cells count was noticed in animals fed the augmented diets, while decrease in lymphocytes count reflected possible leucopoiesis and immunomodulatory effect of MOLM. High platelet counts (807.5 x109/L-1011.27x109/L) could indicate secondary anaemia caused by PD, while decrease in calcium and total protein was improved by MOLM. Increase in creatinine for all treatments could imply that kidney function was compromised. Serum ALP, ALT and AST activities were down regulated significantly in animals fed MOLM diets, suggesting organ-protective properties of Moringa. Histopathological evaluation of organs supported the biochemical findings and confirmed the negative effect of dietary protein deficiency. Although MOLM is nutrient-rich, unprocessed MOLM impacted negatively on physiology of the rats and could not completely replace protein in the diet.

Analysis of serum lipid profiles of albino rat fed on processed tuber flours of Icacina senegalensis A. Juss (Icacinaceae)

Background: This study was aimed at evaluating the cardiovascular changes following the oral administration of processed under-exploited plant tuber; Icacina senegalensis. Methods: The tubers were peeled, chopped, and soaked in water (1:3 w/v) for 3 days. After which, it was divided into two portions (SD and SB). SD portion was oven-dried at 40 0C for 2 days, SB portion was further boiled (1:3 w/v) for about an hour, then, strained and oven-dried at 400C for 2 days. The two portions were pulverized and formulated into SD10, SD20, SD30, SB10, SB20, and SB30 respectively. Forty- two albino Wistar rats were used for this experiment and these were divided into seven groups consisting of six rats each. Group one was fed with normal rat chow while groups 2 to 7 were fed with the formulated diets respectively. At the end of thirty days feeding experimental period, the total cholesterol (TC), HDL-cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, VLDL-cholesterol, and Triglyceride (TG) were estimated Results: Serum lipoprotein concentrations and atherogenic index of graded doses of Soaked Dried, SD, and Soaked then boiled, SB, Icacina senegalensis tuber evaluated showed that rats fed with SD 20, SB 10, and SB 30 had higher High-Density Lipoprotein, HDL-c concentrations compared to that of the control group. Consequently, their Atherogenic Index ratios were 0.39, 0.58, and 0.61 respectively as compared to the control group value, 0.73, while rats fed with SD 10, SD 30, and SB 20 had ratios of 1.27, 3.15, and 5.39 respectively. Conclusions: Dietary inclusion of flours of soaked-dried and soaked-boiled Icacina senegalensis tubers at levels used in this study caused improvement in cardiovascular well-being in a rodent model.

Ameliorative effect of aqueous Cissus populnea suspension on cotton seed-induced testicular damage in male Wistar rats

BackgroundTesticular damage is an important etiological factor in male infertility. Despite reported decline in global incidence of infertility over the past years, pockets of cases are still ironically noticed to occur in developing countries due to limitation of accessibility to advanced management methods, hence their resort to alternative herbal therapy.MethodsTesticular damage was induced using cotton seed. Cissus populnea was cut into chunks, air-dried, pulverized, powdered and suspended in water. Thirty-two (32) matured male Wistar rats were randomly divided into 4 groups (Group 1–4) designated as control, 100 mg/kg C. populnea (CP), cotton seed meal (CSM) and CSM + CP groups, each consisting of 8 rats. Group 1 was fed with normal rat chow, Group 2 was fed with 100 mg/kg CP, and Group 3 was fed with CSM for 8 weeks. Rats in Group 4 were fed with CSM for 8 weeks and dosed with 100 mg/kg aqueous C. populnea suspension for another 8 weeks. At the expiration of test period, the rats were sacrificed, blood sample collected, and plasma obtained for luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), testosterone, estrogen, catalase, superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and glutathione (GSH) measurements. Semen was collected for analysis and testes harvested for histological studies.ResultThere is a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in plasma FSH, LH, testosterone, estrogen, GSH, catalase, SOD, and GPx in rats fed on CSM when compared with values obtained in the control and aqueous C. populnea suspension-fed rats. Seminal fluid analysis showed a significant reduction (p < 0.05) in the sperm count, motility, morphology, vitality, and non-vitality among rats fed with CSM when compared to control rats. The histologic features of the testes showed abnormal interstitial appearances and absent Leydig cells in many areas among cotton seed-fed rats. Improvements in reproductive hormones, sperm qualities, and histological features were observed to occur in CSM group following administration of aqueous C. populnea suspension.ConclusionBased on the findings from this study, it can be concluded that aqueous C. populnea suspension ameliorates cotton seed-induced hypothalamo-pituitary–testicular axis functional disruption and testicular damage.

Eight weeks consumption of high-fat diet promotes Mesenteric fat deposition when compared to other rat diets

Metabolic syndrome is a grouping of several medical conditions plaguing the modern world today. Excessive visceral fat is strongly associated with abdominal obesity which is one of the characteristics of metabolic syndrome. In general, an unbalanced, rich diet plays an important role in the proliferation of adipocytes. Our aim is to observe which diet contributes to the deposition of visceral fat such as the mesenteric fat. For eight weeks, thirty-five Sprague Dawley rats were divided into five groups and were fed five different types of diets. The five diets are normal rat chow, high sugar, high starch, high protein and high fat rat (palm oil-based) feed formula. Besides the formularized rat feeds, the rats were given tap water ad libitum. The result showed high fat diet promotes mesenteric fat proliferation when compared to other rat feed formula. Present study showed that high-fat diet promotes mesenteric fat proliferation when compared to other diets.

Antihyperlipidemic, hypoglycaemic and antioxidative potential of Juglans Regia (walnuts) in an experimental animal model of dietary hyperlipidemia.

Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are recognized as the world's primary cause of fatality, particularly in the developing countries. Stroke and ischemic heart disease have reportedly been the principal manifestations of vascular disease mainly because of the gradual increase in the incidence of the risk factors. In this aspect, the present study is planned to investigate the cardio-protective potential of Juglans regia (JR) (walnuts) consumption in controlling dyslipidemia. JR has notable therapeutic effects and, it has been used since ancient times for its anti-inflammatory, cardio-protective, and anti-bacterial properties.&#x0D; Methodology: In this study, 32 age-matched females, Wistar albino rats of 5-6 weeks weighing 200 g, were selected and equally divided into four experimental groups. Group I was used as control, Group II was positively induced hyperlipidemia through a high-fat diet; Group III animals were fed normal rat chow along with 153 mg JR powder, and Group IV animals have also inducted hyperlipidemia through a high-fat diet incorporated with 153 mg JR powder/Kg for 15 days. Bodyweight changes along with daily diet consumption were measured on alternate days.&#x0D; Results: In comparison to the control group, animals fed with a high-fat diet (Group II) showed a non-significant increase in plasma lipid profile, total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), and plasma high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels. Group III and IV animals, after walnut powder supplementation, showed a significant decrease in lipid profile change in very Low-Density Lipoprotein levels (VLDL) of 10.3 ± 0.60 mg/dl and 12.27 ± 0.94 mg/dl together with nephron-protective &amp; reno-protective enzymatic alterations. Histological analysis revealed signs of inflammation in high fat treated groups while well-maintained cardiac tissues within walnut treated groups, respectively.&#x0D; Conclusion: Daily consumption of Juglans Regia (walnut) in the dosage mentioned earlier is beneficial in protectively modulating dyslipidemia, hyperglycemic, and oxidative tissue potential of high-fat diet consumption in an experimental animal model.

Effects of green tea (Camellia sinensis) on paracetamol-induced oxidative stress markers in Wistar rats

Background: Green tea is a good source of phenolic compounds which are known to possess antioxidant properties. Although there have been researches on the effect of fresh green tea leaves on oxidative stress, there is paucity of data on processed green teas consumed in Nigeria. &#x0D; Objective: This study was conducted to determine the effect of green tea on oxidative stress biomarkers in Adult male Wister rats.&#x0D; Methods: Serum malondialdehyde (MDA) level, catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), vitamins A, C and E activity of rats treated with green tea extract (GTE) were determined using standard methods. Thirty two (32) rats were divided into six groups of five rats each. Group 1 fed only on normal rat chow. All groups except group I were oxidative stress induced with 1500mg/kg body weight (bw) of paracetamol orally for three consecutive days. Group 2 did not receive any treatment. Group 3 was treated with ascorbic acid (20mg/kg bw) for seven consecutive days while groups 4 to 6 were treated with 50, 100, 200 mg/kg bw of GTE respectively for seven consecutive days.&#x0D; Results: There was a significant (p&lt;0.05) decrease in the MDA concentration in groups 4 to 6 compared with groups 1 to 3. Group 5 had the highest SOD activity, while group 2 recorded the highest CAT activity. However, the GPx activity showed non-significant (p&gt;0.05) difference among all the groups. The vitamin A level of the groups 4 to 5 showed a significant (p&lt;0.05) decrease compared with groups 1 to 3. However, vitamin C and E levels of groups 5 increased significantly (p&lt;0.05) compared with group 2. &#x0D; Conclusion: GTE consumption at 50, 100, 200 mg/kg bw for seven consecutive days caused reduction in serum MDA level and increased serum enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants in rats.

Evaluation of Pituitary-Testicular Axis and Lipid Profile Levels in Male Wistar Rats Administered Extra Virgin Olive Oil Versus Oleic Acid with a Normal Diet

Background: Dietary fats impact male reproductive functions. The effect of consumption of normal rat chow with the Mediterranean main fat, extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO), and its major component, oleic acid (OA) in non-metabolic disease states on reproductive hormonal functions is however unknown. Objectives: This study investigated the effect of EVOO and OA in normal diet feeding on reproductive hormones and lipid profiles. Methods: Eighteen male Wistar rats were divided into 3 groups and fed as follows: Group I (Control) fed the normal rat chow. Group II (extra-virgin olive oil: EVOO) fed the normal diet plus 1 ml/kg/day EVOO. Group III (oleic acid: OA) fed the normal diet plus 1 ml/kg/day OA as previously described. After 4 weeks of the experimental period, reproductive hormones, lipid profile, glucose, and total protein levels were assessed. Results: The serum luteinizing hormone (LH) level was significantly increased in both EVOO and OA groups, with no significant difference in serum testosterone (T) levels. The testicular T and serum oestradiol levels were significantly decreased in the EVOO groups but were significantly increased in the OA groups when compared to the control. There was a significant increase in the serum LDL-C in both EVOO and OA groups when compared to the control. The serum HDL-C levels were significantly decreased (p &lt; 0.05) in both EVOO and OA groups when compared to control. Conclusion: The administration of EVOO and OA in normal diet feeding resulted in diminished serum testosterone levels and serum HDL-C levels.

Perinatal Taurine Supplementation Preserves the Benefits of Dynamic Exercise Training on Cardiovascular and Metabolic Functions and Prevents Organ Damage in Adult Male Exercised Rats.

Taurine supplementation is recommended during perinatal life to provide sufficient taurine for fetuses and newborns. Furthermore, perinatal taurine supplementation affects cardiovascular and metabolic functions in adult life. In adults, taurine supplementation is reported to improve exercise training. The present study explored the effects of perinatal taurine supplementation followed by dynamic exercise training on cardiovascular and metabolic functions in adult male rats. Pregnant Wistar rats were maintained on water containing or lacking 3% taurine from conception to weaning. After weaning, male offspring were fed normal rat chow and water throughout the study. At 4weeks of age, the taurine-treated and taurine-untreated rats were subjected to either a swimming exercise protocol (10-30 min a day, 5day a week) for 12weeks (Ex and TEx) or remained sedentary (C and T). At 16weeks of age, kidney weight, mean arterial pressure, baroreflex sensitivity, plasma leptin, plasma triglyceride, blood urea nitrogen, plasma creatinine, and SGOT were not significantly different among the four groups. Compared to the control, perinatal taurine supplementation alone did not significantly affect any of the measured cardiovascular and metabolic parameters. Exercise training significantly decreased bodyweight, heart rate, and visceral adipocyte size, irrespective of perinatal taurine supplementation, but increased SGPT and heart weight when compared to the control. However, the effect of exercise on SGPT, but not heart weight, was abolished by perinatal taurine supplementation. These data indicate that perinatal taurine supplementation not only preserves the beneficial effects of dynamic exercise training on cardiovascular and metabolic functions but also prevents exercise-induced organ damage in adult male rats.

Acute Toxicological Assessment and Investigation of Cardioprotective Potential of Processed Pumpkin (Cucurbita Maxima) Seed Flour

Pumpkin seeds (Cucurbita maxima) are medicinally useful. It has pharmacological activities such as anti-diabetic, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammation activities, antioxidant effects. The in vitro antioxidant capacity of the processed pumpkin seed flour was investigated. In addition, the acute toxicological assay was carried out by grouping experimental male rats (150 - 200 g) into four groups (n=5). Each of the groups were fed with each of the processed samples (100%) respectively, except control that was fed normal rat chow for two weeks. The cardioprotective property of the processed sample was further investigated. The experimental animals were divided into nine groups (n=5) each and at the end of two weeks, the heart, liver, and blood were obtained for biochemical parameters. Fermented C. maxima seed flour exhibited the highest antioxidant properties. The acute toxicological result revealed that processed seeds flour caused significant alteration in the activities/levels of serum biochemical indices and the antioxidant parameters in the heart and liver as compared with the control. In addition, the cardioprotective study revealed that doxorubicin intoxication caused significant alterations in the cardiac serum biochemical indices, lipid profile, electrolytes, and cardiac antioxidant parameters Also, doxorubicin caused a dose-dependent elevation in the atherogenic indices. However, pretreatment with processed C. maxima seed flour significantly prevented most of these derangement in a comparable manner to that of induced group. This study revealed that processed C. maxima seed flour especially fermented sample at 60% diet supplement offered protection against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity probably via antioxidative and antihyperlipidemic mechanisms.

Phyllanthus amarus attenuated derangement in renal-cardiac function, redox status, lipid profile and reduced TNF-α, interleukins-2, 6 and 8 in high salt diet fed rats

High salt diet (HSD) has been implicated in the etiopathogenesis of immune derangement, cardiovascular disorders and, metabolic syndromes. This study investigated the protective effect of ethanol extract of Phyllanthus amarus (EEPA) against high salt diet (HSD) induced biochemical and metabolic derangement in male Wistar rats. The rats were divided into 5 groups of 6 animals each as follows; control group fed with normal rat chow, negative control group, fed HSD only, animals on HSD treated orally with 75 mg/kg, 100 mg/kg, and, 150 mg/kg EEPA once daily. At the end of 8 weeks treatment, lipid profile (TG, TC, LDL, and VLDL), oxidative stress (catalase, reduced glutathione, and malondialdehyde), inflammatory (TNF-a, interleukins 2, 6, and 8), cardiac (lactate dehydrogenase, creatine kinase) and kidney function markers (urea, uric acid, creatinine) were assessed. Serum TG, TC, LDL, and VLDL content were significantly (p < 0.05) elevated in HSD-only fed rats, while HDL was significantly elevated in a concentration-dependent manner in EEPA treated animals. The extract produced a significant (p < 0.05) and dose-dependent increase in the antioxidant enzymes activities and a significant reduction in the malondialdehyde level. A significant (p < 0.05) dose-dependent reduction in serum TNF-alpha, IL-2, 6, and 8 of EEPA treated rats compared with HSD-fed rats was observed. More so, reduction in serum LDH, creatine kinase, creatinine, urea, and uric acid activity of extract-treated animals were noted. EEPA attenuated high salt diet-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and dyslipidemia in rats.

Identification of Cald1 as a novel regulator of Linggui Zhugan decoction for improving insulin resistance in vivo and in vitro.

To identify Cald1 as a novel regulator of Linggui Zhugan decoction for improving insulin resistance in vivo and in vitro. Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to 3 groups that were received a normal rat chow diet, high-fat diet (HFD), and an HFD plus LGZGD, respectively. The homeostatic model assessment (HOMA)-insulin resistance (IR) index was used to determine IR. Gene microarray methodology was used to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the three groups of rats. The DEGs associated with IR were confirmed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Additionally, Mouse 3T3-L1 pre-adipocytes were differentiated into mature 3T3-L1 adipocytes, which were then treated with tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α to induce cellular IR. Lipid accumulations were identified by Oil Red O staining. Glucose uptake was assessed using the 3 H-2-DG test. In this study, we found Cald1 was further screened to validate its biological function in 3T3-L1 adipocytes induced to develop IR. In vitro experiments showed that insulin-stimulated 3H2-DG uptake by IR 3T3-L1 adipocytes was increased after LGZGD intervention, which was associated with a down-regulation of Cald1 expression. LGZGD ameliorates HFD-induced IR in rats and TNF-α induced IR in adipocytes by down-regulating Cald1 expression.

Biochemical and histological investigation on the protective effect of poly-herbal extract in high salt diet-fed male Wistar rats

BackgroundThrough different mechanisms, excessive intake of dietary salt has been documented as a risk factor for the development of elevated blood pressure and organ dysfunction. Therefore, this study evaluated the efficacy of combined extracts of four medicinal plants against high salt diet-induced succinate dehydrogenase depletion and alteration in vital organ (kidney, liver, and cardiac) hemostasis. MethodsThirty-five male Wistar rats with an average weight of 130 g were divided into 5 groups of 7 animals each. Group 1 and 2 rats were fed with normal rat chow (NRC) and 16% high salt diet (HSD) only respectively. Rats in groups 3, 4, and 5 were fed with 16% HSD and 800, 400, and 200 mg/kg poly-herbal extract (PHE), respectively, once daily for 4 weeks. The concentration and activities of creatinine, urea, sodium, magnesium, chloride, potassium, albumin, globulin, total protein, and alkaline phosphate (ALP) were estimated in the serum. Aspartate and alanine aminotransferases (AST and ALT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) were estimated in the serum, liver, and aorta. The result revealed that the combined extract significantly (p < 0.05) lowered HSD-induced elevated serum concentration of kidney function markers and electrolytes. More so, a significant (p < 0.05) reduction in serum and tissue activities of liver and cardiac function markers was demonstrated by the poly-herbal extract. No significant changes were observed in serum albumin and globulin level, however total protein and tissue activities of SDH were significantly (p < 0.05) elevated by the PHE. The histopathological examination showed to a large extent, the extract conferred significant protection on the cytoarchitecture of the kidney, liver, and aorta. ConclusionConclusively, combined plants extract protected against high salt diet-induced biochemical and histological derangement in male Wistar rats.

Assessment of Nanosilver Hemocompatibility in Prehypertensive Salt-Induced Animal Model

Aim: There are Conflicting reports on safety profile of nanoparticles on biological cells. This study evaluated the impact of nanosilver on hemocompatibility on salt-loaded rats. Materials and Methods: Sprague-Dawley rats [(inbred) (120-140 g)] randomly divided into of 4 groups, (n = 6) were studied. Group 1(control) received normal rat chow and tap water, Group 2 received rat chow containing 8% NaCl [(salt-loaded rats (SLRs)]. Group 3 received rat chow + Nanosilver Solution (NS) 0.18 mL 10 ppm/kg/day. Group 4 comprised SLRs + NS. After 6 weeks oral gavage treatments, measurements of Blood pressure (Bp) and Heart Rate (HR) were by pressure transducer via cannulation of left common carotid artery following anaesthesia with urethane. HR was computed by the number of arterial pulse per 60 seconds. 5 ml of blood for WBC, PLATELETS, RBC, PCV, HB, MCH, MCHC and MCV analyses using automated haematology analyser and Osmotic fragility reactivity with standard spectrophotometer at 540 nm wavelength. Results: Exposure of nanosilver to normotensive rats resulted in significantly lower RBC level compared with control, whereas RBC level in Salt-Loaded Co-Treated Nanosilver (SCNS) was comparable with the SLRs. The tenet was the same for HB, PCV, MCH and MCHC. Nanosilver induced leukopenia in normotensive compared with control and prevented WBC elevation in SCNS. Platelets significantly increased in Nanosilver-Treated Normotensive Rats (NTNRs) compared with control and decreased in SCNS. Osmotic burst resistance increased in NTNRs and decreased in cells from treated groups. Conclusion: Chronic exposure of nanosilver to salt loaded rats alters haematological parameters which may worsen circulatory function and activate risk factors of cardiovascular disorders.

Anti-malaria and hypoglycaemic activities of Diosgenin on alloxan-induced, diabetic Wistar rats

The rising threat of Plasmodium falciparum resistance to Monotherapies has prompted the world health organization (WHO) 2006 guidelines to recommend the use of different anti-malarias. In this study, the anti-malaria and hypoglycaemic activities of Diosgenin, a potent, yet poorly reported saponin was investigated on P. falciparum inoculated and Alloxan-Induced, Diabetic Wistar Rats. Fort two (42) adult male wistar rats of between 100g and 150g were procured, acclimatized (for two weeks), and grouped into seven of six (6) rats per group. While Group 1 (Normal control) received normal rat chow and water ad libitum, groups 2 – 4 received no treatment (untreated), 10 mg/kg body weight of anti-diabetic Metformin and 25 mg/kg body weight of diosgenin respectively after inducing diabetes mellitus (DM) with alloxan monohydrate; whereas, groups 5-7 (all malaria infected) were untreated (negative malaria control), 25 mg/kg body weight of diosgenin and 56 mg/kg body weight of anti-malaria coartem respectively. Following treatment period, blood samples were obtained and assayed for fasting blood sugar, packed cell volume (PCV) and total white blood cell count (TWBCC). From the result, P. falciparum exposed rats showed lowered PCV values than control with observed improvements in coartem (significant at p &lt; 0.05) and diosgenin (insignificant) treatment groups. Also, diabetic, diosgenin treated rats showed an insignificant reduction in blood sugar levels compared to control, even though this change was apparently improved compared to diabetic, untreated group. Again, TWBCC caused notable decrease in diosgenin treated, though this decrease signified a huge recovery compared to untreated rats. Corroborative studies on diosgenin with other systems is recommended.

The Role of Poly-Herbal Extract in Sodium Chloride-Induced Oxidative Stress and Hyperlipidemia in Male Wistar Rats.

Consistent consumption of high salt diet (HSD) has been associated with increased cellular generation of free radicals, which has been implicated in the derangement of some vital organs and etiology of cardiovascular disorders. This study was designed to investigate the combined effect of some commonly employed medicinal plants on serum lipid profile and antioxidant status of aorta, kidney, and liver of high salt diet-fed animals. Out of the total fifty male Wistar rats obtained, fifteen were used for acute toxicity study, while the remaining thirty-five were divided into 5 groups of 7 animals each. Group 1 and 2 animals were fed normal rat chow (NRC) and 16% high salt diet (HSD) only, respectively. Animals in groups 3, 4 and 5 were fed 16% HSD with 800, 400, and 200 mg/kg bw poly-herbal extract (PHE), respectively, once for 28 consecutive days. Serum low-density lipoprotein (LDL), triacylglycerol (TG), total cholesterol (TC) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL), malondialdehyde, nitric oxide, catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione concentration, and activities were assessed in the aorta, kidney, and liver. Poly-herbal extract (p < 0.05) significantly reduced malondialdehyde and nitric oxide concentrations and also increased antioxidant enzymes and glutathione activity. Elevated serum TG, TC, LDL, and TC content in HSD-fed animals were significantly (p < 0.05) reduced to normal in PHE-treated rats while HDL was significantly elevated (p < 0.05) in a concentration-dependent manner in PHE treated animals. Feeding with PHE attenuated high-salt diet imposed derangement in serum lipid profile and antioxidant status in the organs of the experimental rats.

Effects of aqueous leaf extract of Corchorus olitorius on the testis and blood testosterone level of adult Wistar rats

Background: The extract of Corchorus olitorius has a reasonable content of vitamins A and C, calcium, iron and fibre, and therefore enjoys a universal application in the treatment of some disease conditions, even as the whole leaf is a very important component of food in so many cultures. Purpose: The study was designed to investigate the effect of Corchorus olitorius extracts on the testis of adult Wistar rats. Method: A total number of thirty two adult Wistar rats weighing between 180 and 200 grammes separated into four groups labeled A,B,C and D respectively were used for the study. Animals in group A which served as the control group were fed with the normal rat chow and water only. The group B rats were administered 100mg/kg body weight of aqueous extract of Corchorus olitorus; while those in group C were administered 500mg/kg body weight of the extract. The group D rats received 1000mg/kg body weight of the extract. For a period of four weeks, the different experimental animal groups received the respective aforementioned treatments once daily, around nine- o’clock in the morning through oral intubation. At the end of the 28 day treatment, the animals were sacrificed and the testes harvested for histological, investigation, and through cardiac puncture, blood samples for some hormonal studies was also collected and investigated using standard laboratory standards. Results: Observations made showed that the extract produced no histological distortions, degenerative or defective effects on the testicular tissues. The testosterone levels of group B, C, and D rats were observed to be significantly higher (P&lt;0.005) than that of the group A (control group).ound: The extract of Corchorus olitorius has a reasonable content of vitamins A and C, calcium, iron and fibre, and therefore enjoys a universal application in the treatment of some disease conditions, even as the whole leaf is a very important component of food in so many cultures. Purpose: The study was designed to investigate the effect of Corchorus olitorius extracts on the testis of adult Wistar rats. Method: A total number of thirty two adult Wistar rats weighing between 180 and 200 grammes separated into four groups labeled A,B,C and D respectively were used for the study. Animals in group A which served as the control group were fed with the normal rat chow and water only. The group B rats were administered 100mg/kg body weight of aqueous extract of Corchorus olitorus; while those in group C were administered 500mg/kg body weight of the extract. The group D rats received 1000mg/kg body weight of the extract. For a period of four weeks, the different experimental animal groups received the respective aforementioned treatments once daily, around nine- o’clock in the morning through oral intubation. At the end of the 28 day treatment, the animals were sacrificed and the testes harvested for histological, investigation, and through cardiac puncture, blood samples for some hormonal studies was also collected and investigated using standard laboratory standards. Results: Observations made showed that the extract produced no histological distortions, degenerative or defective effects on the testicular tissues. The testosterone levels of group B, C, and D rats were observed to be significantly higher (P&lt;0.005) than that of the group A (control group).