Possible Protective Role Of Vitamin Research Articles

Effect of Aging on Cornea of Male Albino Rat and the Possible Protective Role of Vitamin C

Background and Objectives: Cornea is a tissue in human eye that improves quality of image formed in retina. It is located in the anterior portion of eyeball. Aging is a biological phenomenon that involves increase of oxidative stress associated with gradual degradation of structure and function of cornea. Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) has been shown to have protective effects in repair of many corneal diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the histological and ultra-structural changes induced by aging on cornea of albino rat and the possible protective role of vitamin C. Materials and Methods: Fifty male albino rats were divided into 3 groups. Group I included 10 rats of 6 months old who received no medications. Group II included 20 rats of 18 months old and divided into two subgroups; IIA: rats received no medications and IIB rats received vitamin C. It was administered by gastric tube once daily (200 mg/kg body weight) for 36 days. Group III included 20 rats above 24 months old and divided into two subgroups; IIIA: rats received no medications, and IIIB rats received vitamin C of the same dose ,duration and route of administration as subgroup IIB. Histological, immune-histochemical, transmission electron microscopic and morphometric studies were performed.Results: Aging was associated with significant separation of collagen bundles, disorganized corneal stroma and cytoplasmic vacuolation with small dark nuclei of corneal epithelial cells. Vitamin C showed significant protection of these signs of aging.Conclusion: Aging affects the cornea of albino rats, and vitamin C has a protective effect on aging of cornea.

COVID-19 in Parkinson's Disease Patients Living in Lombardy, Italy.

BackgroundIt is unknown whether patients with PD are at greater risk of COVID‐19, what their risk factors are, and whether their clinical manifestations differ from the general population.ObjectivesThe study aimed to address all these issues.MethodsIn a case‐controlled survey, we interviewed 1,486 PD patients attending a single tertiary center in Lombardy, Italy and 1,207 family members (controls).ResultsOne hundred five (7.1%) and 92 controls (7.6%) were identified as COVID‐19 cases. COVID‐19 patients were younger, more likely to suffer from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, to be obese, and vitamin D nonsupplemented than unaffected patients. Six patients (5.7%) and 7 family members (7.6%) died from COVID‐19. Patients were less likely to report shortness of breath and require hospitalization.ConclusionsIn an unselected large cohort of nonadvanced PD patients, COVID‐19 risk and mortality did not differ from the general population, but symptoms appeared to be milder. The possible protective role of vitamin D supplementation warrants future studies. © 2020 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society

Effect of Silver Nanoparticles on Testes of Prepubertal Male Albino Rats and the Possible Protective Role of Vitamin E Supplement (Histological and Immunohistochemical Study)

Background: Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are one of the most eminent and commonly used nanoparticles in customer everyday products for both adults and children.Objective: This study objects to study the effect of prepubertal exposure of AgNPs on the histological structure of testis and the possible protective role of vitamin E.Materials and Methods: Twenty three days old juvenile male albino rats were used and divided into 3 groups. Group I control: subdivided into two subgroups: subgroup Ia (negative control), Rats received no treatment and sacrified at postnatal day (PND) 23 and 58. Subgroup Ib (vehicle control group), further subdivided into two subgroup Ib1, Ib2. Group II: subdivided into 2 subgroups: Subgroup IIa; rats treated with AgNPs intraperitoneally daily at dose of (50 μg /kg/day) for 35 days from 23 PND to 58 PND and Subgroup IIb; treated with AgNPs and vitamin E (vit. E) orally by gavage at a dose (150 mg /kg /day) dissolved in corn oil from age 23-58 PND, Group III; follow up group, rats received AgNPs left without treatment till 90 PND.Results: Testicular damage was also detected in AgNPs treated group as compared to the control group. Vit. E-treated subgroup and the follow up groups showed significant testicular improvement. A drastic decrease of testicular germinal epithelial height in AgNPs treated compared to control and vit. E treated rats. The expression of Bcl2 immunoreaction was also decreased in AgNPs-treated rats compared to the control and AgNPs and vit. E-treated groups.Conclusion: AgNPs induced structural changes on male reproductive system that can be ameliorated by Vit. E supplementation and limiting the exposure to the products rich in these particles.

Cardiac toxicity of heavy metals (cadmium and mercury) and pharmacological intervention by vitamin C in rabbits.

Mercury and cadmium are highly dangerous metals that can lead to disastrous effects in animals and humans. The aim of the current research was to elucidate the poisonous effects of mercuric chloride and cadmium chloride individually and in combination on biochemical profiles of plasma and their accumulation in heart. The therapeutic effect of vitamin C against these metals in rabbits was also studied. Mercuric chloride (1.2μg/g), cadmium chloride (1.5μg/g), and vitamin C (150μg/g of body weight) were orally given to treatment groups of the rabbits (1-control; 2-vitamin; 3-CdCl2; 4-HgCl2; 5-vitamin + CdCl2; 6-vitamin + HgCl2; 7-CdCl2 + HgCl2, and 8-vitamin + CdCl2 + HgCl2. After the biometric determination of all intoxicated rabbits, biochemical parameters, viz low-density lipoproteins (LDL), high-density lipoproteins (HDL), cholesterol, creatine kinase, and troponin T (TnT) were analyzed using available kits. Levels of cholesterol (0.7 ± 0.1mmol/l), creatine kinase (2985.2 ± 11IU/L), LDL (20.35 ± 1.31mg/dl), and troponin T (1.22 ± 0.03μg/l) were significantly (P < 0.05) increased. HDL (84.78 ± 4.30mg/dl) was significantly (P < 0.05) decreased, while supplementation of vitamin C decreased the adverse effects of CdCl2 and HgCl2 on biochemical parameters in all metal-exposed groups. A similar trend was also seen in rabbits treated with CdCl2 + vitamin and vitamin + CdCl2 + HgCl2. Accumulation of Cd and Hg was higher in heart tissues. This study, therefore, provides awareness on the cardiac toxicity of mercury and cadmium chlorides in the rabbits and the possible protective role of vitamin C against the perturbations induced by metals.

Effect of monosodium glutamate on the cerebellar cortex microscopic structure in suckling rats, and possible protective role of vitamin C

Background: Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is food additive, has effects on cerebellar cortex. It induces oxidative stress and decreases antioxidant capabilities. The health benefits of vitamin C are derived from its role in a number of key pathways within the immune system. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of MSG on the rat cerebellar cortex with the possible protective role of vitamin C. Material and Methods: Twenty-one new-born and twenty-one 20-day-old of suckling male albino rats were randomly divided into three groups in each age group. There were control groups (n=9); MSG-treated groups (n=6), in which the animals were treated with MSG 4 ‎ g/kg body weight ; and MSG + vitamin C treatment groups (n=6) , in which the animals were treated with MSG 4 ‎g/kg body weight and vitamin C 500 mg/kg orally. After ten days from the beginning of the experiment, the animals were anaesthetized by thiopental sodium. Cerebellar specimens were obtained, and then, processed for both light and electron microscopic examination. Results: MSG administration resulted degenerative changes of neurons, observed in the 10-day-old group, and Purkinje cell loss, in the 30-day-old group, Purkinje layer showed multiple focal areas of loss, dark irregular cells with marked ultrastructural abnormalities. GFAP showed good evidence of gliosis in the MSG-treated groups. Fortunately, co-administration of vitamin C reduced these effects. In conclusion, MSG has neurodegenerative effect on cerebellar cortex and vitamin C supplementation could protect from neurotoxic effect of MSG.

The protective effects of vitamin E against selenium-induced oxidative damage and hepatotoxicity in rats

Selenium is a trace element which can be toxic when consumed at high levels. The study was conducted to assess the possible protective role of vitamin E against selenosis in rats. Selenium was applied at different single doses (4.5, 9 and 18 mg/kg b.wt.). Vitamin E (200 mg/kg b.wt.) was given to the rats one hour before treatment with the higher selenium dose. In selenium-treated rats, selenosis was evident from the elevated level of malondialdehyde. Oxidative stress was induced from the significant altered activity levels of CAT, SOD and GPx. Furthermore, selenium-induced hepatotoxicity was developed, where the activity levels of AST, ALT and GGT were significantly increased. Hepatotoxicity was also manifested histologically. Pretreatment with vitamin E significantly alleviated the affected levels of the investigated parameters, and counteracted the hepatic histopathological changes. The results demonstrate that vitamin E supplementation provides an effective protection against oxidative damage and hepatotoxicity induced by selenosis.

Potential Protective Role of Vitamin E in Lung of Adult Male Albino Rat Exposed to Bisphenol A

Abstract Background: Bisphenol A (BPA) is a worldwide manu-factured chemical in plastic industry. Exposure to BPA through food and drinking water in plastic containers leads to human health problems. Aim of Study: This study intends to explore the possible protective role of vitamin E against BPA induced functional and structural changes in the lungs of adult male albino rats. Material and Method: Twenty four adult male albino rats were divided randomly into 4 equal groups of 6 rats each; Group I (controls) divided into 2 subgroups: Subgroup (A) (negative control group): Fed on regular diet and water for 8 weeks. Subgroup (B) (vehicle control group): Received (1ml of corn oil) by oral gavage/day for 8 weeks. Group II (vitamin E alone) received 200mg Vitamin E/kg/day; Group III (BPA alone) received 500mg BPA/kg/day; Group IV (BPA and vitamin E co-administered) as in groups II and III. The drugs were administered through oral gavage for 8 weeks, at the end of the experiment, heart rate (HR) and mean arterial blood pressure (MABP) were estimated for all the animals. Blood samples were withdrawn for chemical examinations, and after sacrifice fresh lung specimens were collected for histological examination. Results: Administration of Vitamin E in cooperation with BPA significantly decreased MDA levels, MPO and Caspase-3 activities. In addition, it increased GSH, CAT and SOD activities significantly in rat lung tissues. Also, plasma levels of TNF-a, IL-1b, IL-6 and LDH were significantly decreased. Blood gases analysis showed no significant difference in pH, but showed increase in PaO2 decrease in PaCO2 significantly. Moreover hemodynamics changes in the form of significant decrease in MABP and HR. Vitamin E protected lungs against BPA induced histopathological changes like inflammation, congestion, inter alveolar septum thickening, alveolar damage, collagen fibers percent area and fatty infiltration, also the immunohistochemical changes were altered as depicted by significant decrease in the cluster of differentiation 68 (CD68) +ve cell count and decreased expression of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB) in immunestained cells of the lung tissue.Conclusion: BPA exposure induced oxidative stress, inflammation and structural lung injury which were signifi-cantly less by coadminstration of vitamin E supplementation.

Evaluation of Dose Related Structural Changes in Sodium-Valproate-Induced Hepatotoxicity and a Possible Protective Role of Vitamin E in Adult Albino Rats

Background: Sodium valproate (SV) is a widely administered antiepileptic drug, although hepatotoxicity is a side effect. Vitamin E (vit. E) being a potent antioxidant agent and essential fat-soluble nutrient that can dramatically decreased this hepatotoxic effect.Aim of the Work: To investigate the histopathological and ultrastructural changes caused by different doses of SV, observe their correlations with liver biomarker levels and assess the defensive role of vit. E against SV-hepatotoxicity.Methods: Sixty male adult albino rats were randomly divided into six groups. Group 1 was treated with normal saline. Group 2 was treated orally with vit. E (100 mg/kg/day). Groups 3, 4 and 5 were treated intraperitoneally with SV at doses of 100, 300 and 500 mg/kg/day, respectively, for 8 consecutive days. Group 6 was treated intraperitoneally with SV (500 mg/kg/day) and orally with vit. E (100 mg/kg/day) for 8 consecutive days. On the ninth day, blood samples were collected to assess the biochemical markers of the liver, and the results were statistically analysed. The rats were deeply anaesthetized and sacrificed. Liver specimens were carefully dissected, and portions were fixed in 10% formalin solution for histopathological examination; others were fixed in 2.5% glutaraldehyde for ultrastructural study.Results: The liver function among the different groups was found to be significantly changed in dose dependent manner. Histopathological examination showed gradual distortion of hepatic lobular architecture and infiltration of lymphocytic cells. Concerning hepatocyte ultrastructure, SV was a destructive compound for most intracellular organelles. This toxicity was most obvious in the groups treated with higher doses; however, concurrent administration of vit. E with SV provided some hepatoprotection.Conclusion: SV is a destructive compound to the liver architecture, especially in high doses. However, SV damage can be attenuated by concurrent administration of vit. E, which considerably decreases most SV-induced hepatotoxicity.

Histological and Immunohistochemical Study of The Effect of Cyclophosphamide on Testis of Male Adult Albino Rats and The Possible Protective Role of Vitamin E

Background: cyclophosphamide is not only used as anticancer chemotherapeutic drug in adult and childhood malignancies, but also used as an immunosuppressive agent for organ transplantation. Aim of the work: this work was planned to evaluate the histological, immunohistochemical and ultrastractural changes in the testis of adult male Albino rats after administration of cyclophosamide and the possible role of vitamin E supplementation and drug withdrawal were explored. Materials and Methods: 50 healthy male Albino rats weighted 200gm were categorized into 5 groups, (ten rats each group). At the end of the experiment, the animals of all groups were anaesthetized by ether inhalation. Their testes were dissected out carefully and processed for light and electron microscope examination. The testes were immediately dissected out and the samples for light microscope were fixed in 10% neutral buffered formaldehyde (pH 7.2) for 24-72 hours. Sections (5um thick) were obtained and stained with HE the interstitium showed acidophilic hyaline material, congested thickened blood vessels and numerous interstitial Leydig cells with pyknotic nuclei. Cross sections of the middle and principle pieces of sperms showed disturbed axoneme. Cross sections in the sperms detected the middle, principle and end pieces. In the middle pieces, the axoneme was surrounded by fibrous and abnormal mitochondrial sheaths. The mitochondria in their sheath showed mild swelling, vacuolization and distortion. Leydig cells had large oval euchromatic nuclei with widened perinuclear space. The cytoplasm contained numerous mitochondria and dilated SER. using vitamin E with cyclophosphamide relatively improved the testicular tissue. Conclusions: cyclophosphamide treatment produced marked changes in the histological structure of the testes especially the germinal epithelium and sperms. This may lead to serious problems such as infertility or even sterility. The histological affection of cyclophosphamide on testis persisted after stoppage of treatment which is an indication of its cumulative effect. Supplementation of vitamin E with cyclophosphamide relatively improved the testicular tissue. So, administration of vitamin E in patient received cyclophosphamide is mandatory to reduce its side effects.

The possible protective role of vitamin C against Monosodium glutamate induced structural changes of adrenal cortex of the adult male albino rat: Histological and immunohistochemical study

Introduction: Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a popularly used taste enhancer. MSG proved to cause many degenerative diseases and oxidative damages. Vitamin C has an antioxidant property.Aim: This work aimed to study the possible protective role of vitamin C against Monosodium glutamate induced structural changes of the adrenal cortex.Material and Methods: Forty-five adult male albino rats were used in this study, aged from 4-6 months and weighting 180-200 Kg. Animals were divided into three equal groups. Group I: It was composed of fifteen rats and was further subdivided into three equal subgroups; Subgroup IA: included 5 rats that kept as negative control. Subgroup IB: included 5 rats that received 1ml of distilled water for 8 weeks and Subgroup IC included 5 rats that received vitamin C in a dose of 0.3 mg/Kg body weight /day for 8 weeks. Group II: It included fifteen adult male rats that received 4mg/Kg body weight/ day of MSG for 8 weeks. Group III: It included fifteen rats that received MSG as in group II and vitamin C in a dose of 0.3 mg/Kg body weight /day for 8 weeks.Results: The present study revealed that MSG induced histological changes of adrenal cortex in the form of disorganized structure of zona glomerulosa and zona fasciculata with increased accumulation of the cytoplasmic droplets and thinning of the capsule. Group III that received vitamin C revealed evident improvement of these changes.Conclusion: Monosodium glutamate led to histoarchitectural changes of adrenal cortex. However, vitamin C greatly improved such changes.

Histological Effects of Sofosbuvir on The Kidney of Male Albino Rats and The Possible Protective Role of Vitamin C

Aim of the work: hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a major worldwide public health issue. Direct Acting Antiviral Drugs (DAA) is a revolution that occurred in treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV). The Second class of DAA is HCV NS5B polymerase inhibitors (Which included Sofosbuvir) was shown to be effective in suppression of HCV replication and became an important component of currently recommended regimens. Material and Methods: forty adult male albino rats (Rattus norvigicus) weighting 140±20g were selected for this 36-days experiment The rats were randomly categorized into six groups (10 animals each for the first four groups and the remaining groups VV periodic Acid Schiff technique (PAS) for studying of general carbohydrate ; Masson’s trichrome stain for detecting the collagen fibers and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to detect the ultrastructural changes induced by Sofosbuvir. Results: the present study showed that group II which received the therapeutic dose of Sofosbuvir (0.06 mg/gm./body weight) showed renal tubular affection compared to the control rats. Tubular affection included massive tubular vacuolization especially cells of the proximal and distal convoluted tubules. Group III which received the toxic dose of Sofosbuvir (0.25 mg/gm./body weight) resulted in glomerular affection compared to the control rats. Conclusion: the present study provided promising results about reduction of Sofosbuvir nephrotoxicity by the concomitant use of vitamin C.

Histological Effects of Sofosbuvir on The Kidney of Male Albino Rats and The Possible Protective Role of Vitamin C

Histological Effects of Sofosbuvir on The Kidney of Male Albino Rats and The Possible Protective Role of Vitamin C

The Role of Vitamin C on the Structural Changes of Male Albino Rats Kidney Induced by Tramadol

Aim of study: The aim of this work is to detect the toxic effects of tramadol on the microscopic structure of the kidneys of adult male albino rats, and the possible protective role of vitamin C against these toxic effects. Method: Thirty adult albino rats are used in this study. The animals were divided into three equal groups: Group A (control group): Animals were injected daily with normal saline for 4 weeks. Group B (Tramadol treated group) (TGI): Animals were injected daily with tramadol in a dose of 50mg/kg b.wt for 4 weeks. Group C (group treated with tramadol+vitamin C) (TGII): Animals were injected with vitamin C in a dose 100mg/Kg/b.wt half hour prior to tramadol injection in the same dose as in group B for 4 weeks. The injection was given intraperitoneally for all animals. At the end of the experiments, the rats were anaesthetized by ether, then killed. After that kidneys removed, fixed in formaldehyde and processed for microscopic examination. Result: Tramadol causes shrinkage of renal glomeruli with widening of bowman's space. Renal tubules showed hydropic degeneration and vacuolization of their epithelial cells. Infiltration of mononuclear cells along with Hyaline cast is seen within the degenerated tubules. Giving vitamin C prior to tramadol injection results in improvement in the microscopical structure of kidney mainly in glomeruli and tubules. Conclusion: Using tramadol caused damage to renal glomeruli and tubules in renal cortex. The addition of vitamin C partially improved the histological structure of kidney.

Effect of Acrylamide on the Tongue Musculature of Adult Male Albino Rat and the Possible Protective Role of Vitamin E: Light and Electron Microscopic Study

Abstract Background: Acrylamide is a potent toxin and carcinogen, its hazards result from its increased accumulation in the process of cooking food materials. Aim of Study: This study aimed to demonstrate the effects of acrylamide on the skeletal muscle fibers of adult male albino rat tongue for two different durations, using light and electron microscopic study and to investigate the possible protective effect of Vitamin E co-administration. Material and Methods: Sixty adult male albino rats were divided into six groups, each group included ten rats. Group I (control). Group II (Sham control). Group III received acrylamide for 20 days. Group VI received acrylamide for 40 days. Group V received acrylamide and Vitamin E, with 30 minutes interval between the two doses, for 20 days. Group VI received acrylamide and Vitamin E with 30 minutes interval between the two doses, for 40 days. All medications were given orally by gastric gavage. At the end of the experiment the tongue was dissected out for light and electron microscopic studies. Results: Light microscopic examination revealed that acrylamide lead to skeletal muscle damage in rat tongue. In the form of, fragmentations, splitting and inflammatory cellular infiltrations. Electron microscopic study of Group III revealed degeneration of mitochondria, these changes became worse with prolonged duration of exposure. This toxic effect of acrylamide could be minimized when Vitamin E is given concomitantly with it. Conclusion: Acrylamide lead to histological changes in rat tongue. Vitamin E minimized this changes due to its antioxidant effect.

A Study on the Effect of Vitamin E on Histomorphological and Immunohistochemical Changes Induced By Electromagnetic Field

Background: Electromagnetic fields has increased gradually due to technology expansion and thus continues exposure to it may affect the biological system, so that the present work aimed to study the biological effect of non-ionizing radiation magnetic field from power line of 50 Hz which caused by devices become widely used in human activity on the structural properties of cerebral cortex and the possible protective role of vitamin E on it through the histopathological and immunohistochemical study . Result: Thirty mice were divided into three groups, group I (control) , group II animals of this group exposed to extremely low frequency magnetic field (ELF – MF) generated by electrical device (2mT- 20G) for a total period 45 day(2h/day) and group III exposed to the same field and period after adding vitamin E (200 mg /kg) B.W. along with the drinking water. The results showed many changes such as neuronal degeneration and apoptosis in number of Purkinje cells and showing a decreased reactivity in carbohydrates , protein ,DNA and Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein (GFAP) content in (MF) treated group as compared to control , such changes showed improvement of the histolomorpholigical and immunohistochemical changes in magnetic field (MF) and vitamin E treated group. Conclusion: Electromagnetic fields exposure led to degenerative changes on cerebellar cortex, and the data collected from histopathological and immunohistochemical study revealed a protective effect of vitamin E on cellular cortex layers of the cerebellar cortex

Differential Expression of CD3, TNF-α, and VEGF Induced by Olanzapine on the Spleen of Adult Male Albino Rats and the Possible Protective Role of Vitamin C.

Olanzapine is an antipsychotic drug effective in the treatment of stress-associated psychiatric illnesses, but its effect on the spleen remains unclear. Vitamin C is essential for the optimum function of the immune system. We aim to investigate the effect of Olanzapine on spleen structures and to assess the protective effect of vitamin C. Forty adult male albino rats were divided into four groups: group (I), a control; group (II), rats were given vitamin C at 40 mg/kg body weight; group (III), rats were given Olanzapine at 2 mg/kg body weight; and group (IV), rats were given vitamin C and Olanzapine at the same dose of group (II) and group (III) for one month. The hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) of the olanzapine treated group showed focal areas of cellular depletion and a decrease in the size of the white pulp. The red pulp was expanded and showed marked congestion and dilatation of blood sinusoids. Cluster of differentiation 3 (CD3) was significantly reduced, however both tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were significantly higher. The administration of vitamin C repaired structural and immunohistochemical changes via increased CD3 and decreased TNF-α and VEGF. Therefore, the oxidative and the inflammatory pathways may be the possible mechanisms underlying olanzapine immunotoxicity. Vitamin C exerted immune modulator and antioxidant effects against olanzapine.

Vitamin D and acute respiratory infections: prevention or treatment?

Vitamin D has a large number of biological effects due to the effect on the vitamin D receptor, which is present in most tissues in the body. The possible role of vitamin D in infections is explained by its effect on the mechanisms of the innate and acquired immune response. Suppression of the inflammatory response is also an important effect of vitamin D. Many scientists strongly believe that vitamin D deficiency is among the so-called «seasonal stimulators» of acute respiratory viral infections (ARVI), the potential for the prophylactic and therapeutic use of vitamin D in the season of ARVI and influenza is of particular interest. 25-hydroxycalciferol-stimulated production of antimicrobial peptides, such as defensin and cathelicidin is the most important fact proving the possible protective role of vitamin D in influenza and other acute respiratory infections. These endogenous peptides have a direct action, destroying not only microbial pathogens, but also viruses, including the influenza virus.

EFFECT OF MONOSODIUM GLUTAMATE ON THE CEREBELLAR CORTEX OF MALE ALBINO RAT AND PROTECTIVE ROLE OF VITAMIN C

Background: Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) is one of the most widely used food-additives in commercial foods that had effect on various tissues including cerebellum. It acts via creating an oxidative stress. The central nervous system is a target organ for MSG especially cerebellar cortex. The health benefits of vitamin C were derived from its role in the key reactions within immune function, metabolism, and other enzymatic reactions. Aim: To evaluate the effect of MSG on rat’s cerebellar cortex with the possible protective role of Vitamin C. Methods: Twenty one adult male albino rats have been used in this work. The animals were randomly divided into three groups with seven animals in each group. Group 1 (Control): Animals were kept without addition of any chemicals. Group 2 (MSG-treated): Animals were subjected to administration of MSG ‎4g/kg body weight dissolved in 1 ml normal saline. Group 3 (MSG and Vitamin C treated): Animals were subjected to administration of both MSG ‎4g/kg body weight dissolved in 1 ml normal saline and 500 mg/kg vitamin C, orally. By the end of the experiment which was 10 days. Animals were anaesthetized and sacrificed. Cerebellar hemispheres were obtained and specimens were processed for both light and electron microscopic examination. Results: MSG caused histopathological and morphometric changes in rat’s cerebellar cortex. Vitamin C protected the cerebellar cortex specimens against such changes. Conclusion: MSG could result in hazards to the structure of cerebellar cortex. Fortunately co-administration of vitamin C is suggested to reduce such hazards.

Effect of Cisplatin on the Kidney of the Albino Rat and Possible Protective Role of Vitamin C

AbstractBackground: Cisplatin has a major nephrotoxic effect.Aim of Study: To evaluate the protective effect of vitamin C against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity.Material and Methods: Sixty adult albino rats divided into 5 groups; group I (10 rats; control), group II (10 rats); received single dose of cisplatin 6mg/kg IP. Group III (10 rats); received single dose of cisplatin 6mg/kg IP 6 hours after single dose of oral vitamin C 350mg/kg. Group IV (15 rats); received single dose of cisplatin 2mg/kg/week for 4 weeks IP and subdivided into three subgroups (5 rats each). Group V (15 rats); received single dose of cisplatin 2mg/kg/week for 4 weeks IP 6 hours after single dose of oral vitamin C 350mg/kg and subdivided into three subgroups (5 rats each). Kidneys were dissected and stained by (H&E), Masson's trichrome (MT) and Periodic acid Schiff (PAS) and examined by light microscopy, and fresh tissue taken from group I, IV-B and V-C examined by electron microscopy.Results: Our results showed toxic effect of cisplatin on renal glomeruli and proximal tubular lining in group II with improvement in group III, chronic toxicity effect in group IV-C in the form of hyaline casts and thickened BM with apparent improvement in group V.Conclusion: We conclude that the vitamin C has a protec-tive effect against cisplatin- induced nephrotoxicity.

Effects of Monosodium Glutamate on the Liver of Male Adult Albino Rat and the Possible Protective Role of Vitamin C (Light and Electron Microscopic Study)

AbstractBackground: Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is the sodium salt of glutamate. When MSG is added to foods, it provides a flavoring function similar to naturally occurring free gluta-mate. It is found in unlimited amounts in a wide variety of packaged foods such as processed meat, semi-preserved fish and food supplements. Vitamin C is a strong reducing agent and as an antioxidant. It is involved in prevention of the damaging effects of free radicals.Aim of Work: The aim of this study was to study the potential protective effect of Vitamin C on liver damage caused by monosodium glutamate in adult male rats using light and Electron microscope.Material and Methods: Sixty adult albino rats were used. The animals were equally divided into three groups each of them consists of 20 rats: Group I: Control were given saline daily by oral route one month. Group II: Were given monosodium glutamate (4gm/kg of body weight/day, dissolved in saline orally) for one month. Group III: Were given vitamin C (500mg/kg of body weight of /day, orally) then after 2 hours were given monosodium glutamate (4gm/kg of body weight/ day, dissolved in saline orally) for one month. At the end of the experiment, the rats were anaesthetized by ether then perfused with saline then with the appropriate fixator (Formalin 10%). The abdomen was opened and the liver of the control and treated animals was extracted, cut, and processed for light and transmission electron microscopic studies.Results: MSG caused distortion of the arrangement of liver cords around the central veins. There was vacuolation of hepatocytes of the liver at light and electron microscopic examination and morphmetric studies. Administration of Vitamin C could attenuate these changes.Conclusion: MSG caused degenerative changes in the liver. Addition of vitamin C decreased those toxic effects of MSG.