Rat Strains Research Articles

Mitochondrial NAD Profile in a Rat Model of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Mitochondria require nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) to satisfy cellular energy needs. Mitochondrial stress has been reported in skeletal muscle tissue of humans with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. NAD deficiency may indicate mitochondrial stress that can be assessed through NAD concentration assays and Western blotting of Nampt and Sirtuin 3 (SIRT3) proteins. Nampt is the rate-limiting enzyme in intracellular NAD recycling, while SIRT3 is an NAD-dependent protein deacetylase that regulates mitochondrial mass and activity. The objective of this study was to investigate skeletal muscle and liver tissues of rat strains that exhibit behaviors associated with ADHD. We hypothesized that tissues from rat models with ADHD-like behavior (Lewis and F344 strains) would have lower NAD concentrations and reduced Nampt and SIRT3 protein expression relative to the control strain (Sprague Dawley). To examine this hypothesis, we performed fluorescence tissue NAD concentration assays. We found a significant difference in liver NAD between Sprague Dawley and F344 rats (Sprague Dawley, 0.14 ± 0.07 mM/mg [mean ± standard deviation], F344, 0.22 ± 0.11; p < 0.05). Western blot analysis for Nampt and SIRT3 proteins revealed a significant difference between the F344 and Sprague Dawley rats for Nampt protein in the extensor digitorum longus (EDL) muscle (Sprague Dawley, 1043930 ± 303677 arbitrary units [AU], F344, 1729014 ± 553568 AU; p < 0.05). Our results indicate minor differences in tissue NAD concentration and Nampt protein expression in rat models with ADHD-like behaviors. This could be indicative of differential mitochondrial function in skeletal muscle or liver tissues. Further studies will examine the implications of increasing nicotinamide riboside in the skeletal muscles to observe the effects of NAD functioning. This work was supported by funds provided by the Cross-Disciplinary Science Institute at Gettysburg College (X-SIG) (HMS, JB) and a Gettysburg College Professional Development Grant (JB). This is the full abstract presented at the American Physiology Summit 2024 meeting and is only available in HTML format. There are no additional versions or additional content available for this abstract. Physiology was not involved in the peer review process.

Effect of Piperine on Ir/IRS -1/AKT Signaling Molecules in High-Fat Diet and Sucrose-Fed Type 2 Diabetic Rat

Diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs either when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. Type 2 diabetics are insulin resistant. Insulin acts on AKT signaling molecules which then act on GLUT 4 which increases glucose uptake and glucose in the case of diabetic patients this pathway is absent to indicate that the pathway piperine is used. This study aims to evaluate the effect of piperine on Ir/ IRS-1/AKT signalling molecules in high-fat diet and sucrose-fed type 2 diabetic rats. Healthy adult male albino rats of Wister strain weighing 180 to 200 g were used for the evaluation of the effect of piperine. Fasting blood glucose and serum insulin levels are decreased with piperine administration. From this study, it is proved that piperine activates the insulin signaling pathway thus proving the potential anti-diabetic role.

Comparison of the Scapula in Human and Laboratory Rat Species from the Perspective of Translational Medicine

Aim: The aim of the study is to provide anatomical differences between rat and human scapula and definitive information to the literature about which strain is most appropriate for rat modeling, particularly in orthopedics. Methods: In current study, a total of 40 scapulas belonging to Wistar Albino, Brown Norway, Sprague Dawley and Lewis strains were examined morphologically and morphometrically with each other and with the human scapula. Digital calipers were used to measure parameters for rat scapula. Literature searches were conducted for the measurements of the human scapula, and the obtained literature data was evaluated. A statistical analysis of the observed parameters was conducted using mean values, standard deviations, and One Way Anova Analysis in the IBM SPSS program. The Tukey post hoc test was used to determine the differences between groups that have a statistical difference. A fold ratio was calculated for each parameter based on the average values of all rat and human scapulae. Results: According to One-Way Anova analysis, there is not any difference between groups for; width of collum scapula, length of cavitas glenoidalis-1, length of cavitas glenoidalis -2, width of cavitas glenoidalis, external width of cavitas glenoidalis, length of processus hamatus, width of processus hamatus, distance between processus coracoideus and incisura scapula, distance between cavitas glenoidalis to acromion at p<0.05 level. There is a statistical difference groups for; length of scapula (p<0.001), width of scapula (p<0.001), length of margo cranialis (p=0.001), length of margo caudalis (p<0.001), length of spina scapula (p<0.001), length of acromion (p=0.007), width of acromion (p=0.001), coracoacromial distance (p=0.003), distance between cavitas glenoidalis and incisura scapula (p<0.001), angle of angulus cranialis (p=0.001) levels. Conclusions: Wistar Albino, Brown Norway, Sprague Dawley and Lewis rat strains are suitable for orthopedical animal models for especially models including cavitas glenoidalis. Any strain can be used in modeling indiscriminately. However, in modeling where the acromion, spina scapula, and edges of the scapula are important, the most appropriate strain specified in the current study should be selected.

Jatropha curcas L. Leaf Extract Effects on Blood Pressure and Lipid Levels in Hypertensive Rats with High-Fat Diet

Background: One of the main risk factors for cardiovascular diseases such as coronary atherosclerotic heart disease (CAHD) is dyslipidaemia or high levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and triglycerides (TG) and low levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL). Hypertension is also a cause of cardiovascular disease. One potential plant to lower LDL levels and blood pressure is Jatropha curcas, which is known to contain saponins, polyphenols, and flavonoids. Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of the ethanol extract of Jatropha curcas leaves (EEJCL) on blood pressure, LDL levels, and HDL levels in hypertensive rats given a high-fat diet. Methods: This study is an experimental study with a pretest-posttest control group design on male Wistar strain rats. Rats were divided into seven groups, namely the normal group, control group (induced with NaCl and given a high-fat diet), Captopril group, Simvastatin group, and EEJCL groups given doses of 1.8, 2.7, and 4.05 g/kg BW. The data obtained were analysed using the One-Sample Kolmogorov-Smirnov Test, Homogeneity of Variance, One-Way ANOVA, and Tukey Test. Results: The results showed that the administration of EEJCL could significantly lower LDL levels and blood pressure and increase HDL levels (p < 0.05) at doses of 1.8, 2.7, and 4.05 g/kg BW, and the dose of 4.05 g/KgBW was the most optimal dose. Conclusion: EEJCL has a potential for development in the treatment of hypertension and dyslipidaemia.

Superovulation with an anti-inhibin monoclonal antibody improves the reproductive performance of rat strains by increasing the pregnancy rate and the litter size

Rats are multiparous rodents that have been used extensively in research; however, the low reproductive performance of some rat strains hampers the broader use of rats as a biomedical model. In this study, the possibility of increasing the litter size after natural mating in rats through superovulation using an anti-inhibin monoclonal antibody (AIMA) was examined. In outbred Wistar rats, AIMA increased the number of ovulated oocytes by 1.3-fold. AIMA did not affect fertilization and subsequent embryonic development, resulting in a 1.4-fold increase in litter size and a high pregnancy rate (86%). In contrast, conventional superovulation by eCG/hCG administration decreased the pregnancy rate to 6–40% and did not increase the litter size. In inbred Brown Norway rats, AIMA increased the litter size by 1.2-fold, and the pregnancy rate increased more than twice (86% versus 38% in controls). AIMA also increased the litter size by 1.5-fold in inbred Tokai High Avoiders and Fischer 344 rats. AIMA increased the efficiency of offspring production by 1.5-, 2.7-, 1.4-, and 1.4-fold, respectively, in the four rat strains. Thus, AIMA may consistently improve the reproductive performance through natural mating in rats, which could promote the use of AIMA in biomedical research.

Comparative Cranial Geometric Morphometrics among Wistar Albino, Sprague Dawley, and WAG/Rij Rat Strains.

This research utilizes geometric morphometrics to investigate shape variation in the skull, mandible, and teeth among three rat strains: Wistar Albino (WA), Sprague Dawley (SD), and WAG/Rij (WR). Through the analysis of 48 rats using 2D geometric morphometric techniques, significant differences in their skull morphology were identified. This study indicates a shift from a rectangular to an oval cranial shape across strains, with notable size and morphological variances. Particularly, the WR strain's skull shape significantly differs from the SD and WA strains, suggesting distinct ecological or genetic pathways. Compared to the skull, mandible shape differences are less pronounced, but still significant. The WR strain exhibits a distinct mandible shape, potentially reflecting ecological adaptations like dietary habits. The teeth shape of WR rats is the most distinct. SD rats consistently exhibited larger sizes in both skull and mandible measurements, while WR rats were notably smaller. Interestingly, sexual dimorphism was not statistically significant in skull and teeth sizes, aligning with findings from previous studies. However, the mandible showed clear size differences between sexes, underscoring its potential for adaptive or behavioral studies. In summary, this study provides a comprehensive analysis of morphological variations in rat strains, highlighting the intricate interplay of size, shape, and ecological factors. These findings lay a foundation for deeper explorations into the adaptive, ecological, or genetic narratives influencing rat morphology.

Chronic Ethanol Decreases the Left Ventricular Cardiac Performance

Introduction: Spaced fiber bundles, less evident cell striations, deposition of collagen fiber bundles, and increased presence of fibroblasts in the cardiac tissue of rats that voluntarily and chronically ingested ethanol were observed by our research group. In addition, we observed increased proliferation and cell death of cardiomyocytes. To find out whether these changes lead to impaired heart functionality, some clinical tests were performed. Aim: to investigate whether chronic ethanol decreases the left ventricular performance assessed by exercise testing, electrocardiogram, and echocardiogram of male and female UChB strain rats. Material and methods: ten adult males and ten adult females, Wistar strain rats, named UChB (University of Chile), spontaneous high ethanol drinkers (consumption greater than 2 g ethanol / Kg body weight/day), and ten male UChB rats and ten adults female UChB rats, not exposed to ethanol, UChBC rats (controls) were used. Cardiac performance was evaluated by the stress test, electrocardiogram, and echocardiogram. Results: Exposed females showed ventricular morphological changes in the heart. The exposed females and males had the highest heart relative weight with females being larger than males. The exposed females showed altered electrocardiogram and echocardiogram. Conclusion: Chronic ethanol decreases the left ventricular cardiac performance in rats. Females are more sensitive to changes in cardiac electrical conduction.

The effect of turmeric extract (Curcuma longa) on IL-6 expression

Background: Breast cancer in Indonesia is reported to have reached 68,858 out of 396,914 new cases of cancer, with an incidence rate of 16.6% based on Globocan 2020 data. Complementary therapies are much sought after for psychological and economic reasons and have minimal side effects. Curcumin has anti-carcinogenic properties. IL-6 plays an important role in the growth and metastasis of breast cancer cells, renewal of breast cancer stem cells, and drug resistance in breast cancer stem cells. Methods: A randomized controlled trial with post-test only group design using artificial female Balb/c strain rats (Mus Musculus) with DMBA-induced mammary adenocarcinoma nodules were reported, rats were divided into four groups randomly, namely, Control (K), Treatment 1: turmeric extract dose 100mg/KgBW (P1), Treatment 2: turmeric extract dose 150mg/KgBW (P2), Treatment 3: turmeric extract dose 200mg/KgBW (P3). Variables under study were IL-6 expression. One Way Anova test, followed by the Post-hoc Test, was used to test the difference among and between groups. Results: The mean value of IL-6 expression in groups K (53,59 ± 8,37), P1 (50,66 ± 9,59), P2 (66,93 ± 9,64), P3 (64,58 ± 5,97). The Post-Hoc test showed significant differences in IL-6 expression from group K against P2 (p=0.038), group P1 against P2 (p=0.015), and P3 (p=0.040). Conclusion: Turmeric extract (Curcuma longa) had an effect on IL-6 expression in the control group and the treatment group.

Stress hyper-reactivity increases vulnerability to developing binge-type eating and associated anxiety-like behavior; comparison between Wistar-Kyoto and Sprague-Dawley rats.

Binge eating disorder (BED) is a widespread eating disorder that primarily affects women worldwide, and it is characterized by the presence of binge eating episodes and the absence of any compensatory behavior to prevent weight gain. BED presents elevated comorbidity with other psychiatric disorders, such as anxiety, and it has been suggested that stress sensibility could be a vulnerability factor for the development of BED and the associated anxiety comorbidity. In this study, we aim to investigate whether the Wistar-Kyoto rat strain (WKY), which has a stress hyper-reactive phenotype, could develop both binge-type eating and anxiety-like behaviors simultaneously. We also aim to compare its vulnerability to developing both behaviors with the Sprague Dawley rat strain (SD), a rat strain commonly used in binge-eating models. WKY and SD rats were subjected to the model of intermittent access to palatable food (sucrose solution 30% or shortening) without calorie restriction or stress exposure. We evaluated and compared the development of binge-type eating behavior, anxiety-like behavior, and serum corticosterone variation as an index of the stress response in both rat strains. WKY rats presented a higher percentage of binge-type eaters and required less time to develop binge-type eating behavior than SD rats. The WKY eating pattern emulated a binge-eating episode regardless of the palatable food. Although the development of sucrose binge-type eating was similar between strains, WKY developed more easily the shortening binge-type eating than SD and was more susceptible to developing anxiety-like behavior. Additionally, sucrose binge eating seems to differentially affect both strains' hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis response to stress since it facilitated its response in SD and blunted it in WKY. Our results show that high-stress sensitive phenotype is a common vulnerability factor for the development of binge-type eating and anxiety-like behavior. Regardless of the macronutrient composition of the palatable food, WKY is susceptible to developing a binge-type eating behavior and is more susceptible than SD to developing anxiety-like behavior simultaneously. In conclusion, results showed that a hyper-reactive stress phenotype predisposes the development of binge-type eating behavior and anxiety-like behavior in the absence of calorie restriction and stress exposure.

The nutritional value and health properties of tahini and tahini-based products

Tahini is an oily paste made from mechanically hulled, roasted and ground sesame, which is used as an ingredient in many traditional Middle Eastern recipes. It is rich in MUFAs, PUFAs, polyphenols, minerals and vitamins. Literature about the health effects of tahini consumption is limited since only two studies in human population and one study in animal model are available, so far. A 6-week supplementation with 28 g tahini in T2DM patients led to lower TG and hs-CRP and higher HDL-C levels. Additionally, consumption of 50 g tahini decreased plasma glucose and increased total phenolic content, urinary 8-iso-prostaglandin F2a and flow-mediated dilatation in healthy individuals postprandially. Moreover, in 40 male albino rats of Wistar strain, sesame butter decreased glucose and malondialdehyde and increased HDL-C and total antioxidant capacity compared to control. Hummus is a dip or spread made from boiled chickpeas, blended with tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic and salt. It is rich in vitamins, minerals and different bioactive compounds including phytic acid, tannins, carotenoids, sterols, and other polyphenols. Hummus consumption has been positively related with weight management and glucose-insulin response. Halva is a low-moisture confectionery that contains tahini, sugar, citric acid and Saponaria officinalis root extract and its consumption has been found to ameliorate glycemic control. In conclusion, tahini could be beneficial regarding diabetes-induced inflammation, oxidative stress and endothelial function. Since more research is needed in order to confirm the aforementioned properties, tahini and tahini-based products seem to be a healthy choice, aiming at promoting healthy dietary patterns.

Relationships between trace elements and cognitive and depressive behaviors in sprague dawley and wistar albino rats.

Introduction: This study investigates the effects of social isolation on mental health and cognitive functions in Sprague Dawley (SD) and Wistar Albino (WIS) rat strains, prompted by the heightened awareness of such impacts amid the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aims to explore the impact of social isolation on memory, learning, and behavioral changes in middle-aged SD and WIS rat strains and to investigate cortical trace element levels, seeking potential correlations between these levels and the observed behavioral responses to social isolation. Methods: Four groups of 14-month-old male rats were established: control and isolated SDs and WIS rats (CONT-SD, ISO-SD, CONT-WIS, ISO-WIS). Morris Water Maze and Porsolt Forced Swimming tests were conducted for behavioral assessment. Following behavioral tests, rats were sacrificed under general anesthesia, and cortices were isolated for analysis of macro and trace element levels (ICP/MS). Results: In behavioral tests, CONT-SD rats exhibited superior performance in the Morris Water Maze test compared to CONT-WIS rats, but displayed increased depressive behaviors following social isolation, as evident in the Porsolt Forced Swimming test (p < 0.05). ISO-SD rats showed elevated levels of Co and Cu, along with reduced levels of Cs and As, compared to ISO-WIS rats. Moreover, isolation resulted in decreased Cu and Mo levels but increased Rb levels in WIS rats. Comparison of trace element levels in naïve groups from different strains revealed lower Zn levels in the WIS group compared to SD rats. Discussion: The findings suggest that the SD strain learns faster, but is more susceptible to depression after isolation compared to the WIS strain. Increased Co and Cu levels in ISO-SD align with previous findings, indicating potential trace element involvement in stress responses. Understanding these mechanisms could pave the way for preventive treatment strategies or therapeutic targets against the consequences of stressors, contributing to research and measures promoting a balanced diet to mitigate neurobehavioral abnormalities associated with social isolation in the future.

Androgenic Properties and Subchronic Toxicity of the Aqueous Extract of Pycnanthus angolensis (Welw.) Warb. Wood (Myristicaceae)

Aims: Pycnanthus angolensis (Welw.) Warb. also known as “Etengué” in the Baka language, is a medicinal plant used by the Baka Pygmies of Cameroon to treat erectile dysfunction. This study aimed to evaluate the androgenic activity and subchronic toxicity of the aqueous extract of Pycnanthus angolensis wood.&#x0D; Study Design: Experimental design.&#x0D; Place and Duration of Study: Laboratory of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Yaoundé I, between November 2022 and October 2023.&#x0D; Methodology: Twenty-five male Wistar strain rats were divided into 5 groups of 5 rats each including a positive control group that received testosterone enanthate (5 mg/kg) intramuscularly once a week; a normal control group that received distilled water (10 ml/kg) and three test groups which received 134 and 267 and 533 mg/kg of the aqueous extract of Pycnanthus angolensis daily per os. On the 29th day, the animals were killed, and several biochemical parameters were assessed for androgenic properties.&#x0D; Results: At a dose of 134 mg/kg, the extract significantly increased (p&lt;0.05) the levels of testicular cholesterol, testosterone and serum prostatic acid phosphatase activity compared to those of the normal control. A toxicity study showed that at doses of 134 and 267 mg/kg, the extract did not induce any significant variation (p&gt;0.05) in the creatinine level, but a significant reduction (p&lt;0.05) in of aspartate and alanine aminotransferase activities was recorded. Histopathology revealed destruction of testicular spermatozoa at a dose of 533 mg/kg compared to that of the controls.&#x0D; Conclusion: These results showed that at a dose of 134 mg/kg, the aqueous extract of Pycnanthus angolensis (Welw.) Warb. wood is capable of stimulating the production of androgens and is tolerated by the rat's body. Our results justified the traditional use of this plant for the treatment of male infertility and erectile dysfunction.

Albino Wistar Rats: Advantages and Limitations in Biomedical Research

Abstract Albino Wistar rats refer to a strain of the Wistar rats which is part of the Norway rat species; it is a popular animal model in many areas of research specifically in neuroscience, pharmacology, and toxicology among others. These rats are particularly valuable due to their high level of genetic homogeneity, ease of handling, and reproducible results which have kept them in the list of requirements for researchers who want to minimize extraneous variables in their studies. One can bet on the fact that the Albino Wistar rats are inbred, and therefore, even their genetic disposition is normalized. Wistar rats originated from the United States of America in the 19th century. In several generations of breeding, this rat strain was used to establish desired characteristics, which resulted in greatly reduced genetic variability. Thus, throughout the whole process of the research, one can be sure that the results of the study will not have any relation to the genetic differences of the participants. In addition, Albino Wistar rats are a kind of animal that is inoffensive and takes well to experimental environment. This ensures that the animals do not have to be subdued or fought before getting a sample and the process does not have to stress the animals or the researcher. Furthermore, they have a shorter gestation period, approximately 21 days, and a short existence of approximately 2 years. Such features make Albino Wistar rats suitable to be used by researchers who would wish to get a fast result or those who have a small budget. It should also be pointed out, although, that there are some drawbacks in employing Albino Wistar rats as animal subjects as well. The following is the major drawback; they are prone to certain diseases for example infections and some types of tumors. It means that the studied population may have higher sensitivity to disease and its manifestations, which may influence the results of studies, when disease processes or potential treatments are examined. The other limitation is that Albino Wistar rat has a relatively shorter life span than any other strain of rats. Reduced life expectancy can also reduce the possibilities of research, especially in trials concerned with aging or late outcomes of interventions. Experimentalists must put these aspects into consideration when choosing their sample and the type of animals to use. Nevertheless, despite these drawbacks, Wistar rats still can be considered valuable source for the researchers taking into account all the mentioned advantages. Because of their high reproducibility, ease of handling, genetic uniformity, and ability to adapt to the laboratory conditions, they provide a perfect model for dissecting complex biological functions and generating new models for diseases affecting mankind. Due to the advancement in scientific knowledge and technology, the researchers may 1 day overcome the said-named limitations associated with the use of Albino Wistar rats as animal models.

The Evaluation of the Acute Toxicity Of MCH2 Syrup Formulations on the Liver Organs of Male Wistar Strain Rats Entailed Histopathological Observations and the Examination of Symptoms of Toxicity

The Evaluation of the Acute Toxicity Of MCH2 Syrup Formulations on the Liver Organs of Male Wistar Strain Rats Entailed Histopathological Observations and the Examination of Symptoms of Toxicity

A revamped rat reference genome improves the discovery of genetic diversity in laboratory rats

The seventh iteration of the reference genome assembly for Rattus norvegicus-mRatBN7.2-corrects numerous misplaced segments and reduces base-level errors by approximately 9-fold and increases contiguity by 290-fold compared with its predecessor. Gene annotations are now more complete, improving the mapping precision of genomic, transcriptomic, and proteomics datasets. We jointly analyzed 163 short-read whole-genome sequencing datasets representing 120 laboratory rat strains and substrains using mRatBN7.2. We defined ∼20.0 million sequence variations, of which 18,700 are predicted to potentially impact the function of 6,677 genes. We also generated a new rat genetic map from 1,893 heterogeneous stock rats and annotated transcription start sites and alternative polyadenylation sites. The mRatBN7.2 assembly, along with the extensive analysis of genomic variations among rat strains, enhances our understanding of the rat genome, providing researchers with an expanded resource for studies involving rats.

Inherited physical capacity: Widening divergence from young to adult to old.

Cardiorespiratory performance segregates into rat strains of inherited low- and high-capacity runners (LCRs and HCRs); during adulthood, this segregation remains stable, but widens in senescence and is followed by segregated function, health, and mortality. However, this segregation has not been investigated prior to adulthood. We, therefore, assessed cardiorespiratory performance and cardiac cell (cardiomyocyte) structure-function in 1- and 4-month-old LCRs and HCRs. Maximal oxygen uptake was 23% less in LCRs at 1-month compared to HCRs at 1-month, and 72% less at 4 months. Cardiomyocyte contractility was 37-56% decreased, and Ca2+ release was 34-62% decreased, in 1- and 4-month LCRs versus HCRs. This occurred because HCRs had improved contractility and Ca2+ release during maturation, whereas LCRs did not. In quiescent cardiomyocytes, LCRs displayed 180% and 297% more Ca2+ sparks and 91% and 38% more Ca2+ waves at 1 and 4 months versus HCRs. Cell sizes were not different between LCRs and HCRs, but LCRs showed reduced transverse-tubules versus HCRs, though no discrepant transverse-tubule generation occurred during maturation. In conclusion, LCRs show reduced scores for aerobic capacity and cardiomyocyte structure-function compared to HCRs and there is a widening divergence between LCRs and HCRs during juvenile to near-adult maturation.

Abstract 3575: The estrogenic endocrine disrupting compounds bisphenol-a (BPA) and alpha-zeranol (aZAL) induce early mammary hyperplasia in female ACI rats

Abstract Endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) found in food-grade plastics, drinking water, and foodstuffs, pose a threat to human health. Estrogenic EDCs are capable of binding and activating the estrogen receptor (ER). Since breast tissue relies on estrogen signaling for growth and renewal, excessive estrogen stimulation is associated with breast cancer development. Breast cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related death in women. Only 5-10% of all breast cancer cases can be attributed to genetic causes, and the proportion of breast cancers of the luminal subtype are increasing in the United States for reasons unknown. Estrogenic EDCs may be able to initiate breast cancers through their estrogenic activities. The present study assessed two EDCs: the plasticizer bisphenol-A (BPA) and the mycotoxin alpha-zeranol (aZAL). To assess the estrogenic effects of these EDCs in an in vivo model, we utilized the ACI rat strain due to its sensitivity to estrogen-induced mammary carcinogenesis. The hypothesis of this work was that BPA and aZAL will induce mammary gland proliferation and estrogen signaling at early timepoints post-exposure. Estrogen, BPA, or aZAL were implanted into the backs of female ACI rats in silastic tubes at either a 9 gram doses. At a timepoint of 5 days post implantation, we saw no overt toxicity of our treatment. Both BPA and aZAL resulted in increased glandular proliferation and hyperplasia in a comparable manner to estrogen. Immunohistochemistry and qPCR revealed that the estrogen signaling marker progesterone receptor (PGR) was significantly upregulated in the estrogen, BPA, and aZAL treatment groups compared to control. The percent positivity of PGR staining in the mammary glands were 21.5% +/- 4.2%, 25.7% +/- 1.7%, 27.9% +/- 3.8%, and 8.18% +/- 2.5% respectively. Additionally, PCNA, a marker of cell proliferation, was significantly upregulated in the estrogen and aZAL treatment groups. The percent positivity of PCNA staining in the mammary glands were 7.67% +/- 2.56%, 49.6% +/- 5.2%, and 41.0% +/- 11.5% respectively. Additionally, the weight of the pituitary gland, an estrogen-sensitive endocrine organ, significantly increased in both the estrogen and aZAL treatment groups. Overall, this study demonstrated that the estrogenic EDCs BPA and aZAL induced mammary gland proliferation and hyperplasia in a comparable manner to estrogen. This is concerning due to the routine detection of these two compounds in human biosamples. More information is needed to assess the risk of exposure to these compounds as it pertains to breast cancer and other hormonal cancers. Citation Format: Cassandra Winz, Ba Liu, Caroline Xie, Shlok Rohatagi, Eric Li, Philip Furmanski, Nanjoo Suh. The estrogenic endocrine disrupting compounds bisphenol-a (BPA) and alpha-zeranol (aZAL) induce early mammary hyperplasia in female ACI rats [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 3575.

The Potency of Typical Plants of Central Sulawesi Province to Prevent Iron Deficiency Anemia: Experimental Study

Background: Central Sulawesi falls within the Wallacea region, making it home to various endemic flora and fauna. One distinctive plant in Central Sulawesi is the Moringa tree. The Moringa tree, especially its leaves, was often used as a culinary ingredient known as sayurkelor in the traditional cuisine of the Kaili ethnic group in Central Sulawesi Province. Objective: This research aimed to determine the effectiveness of moringa leaf extract in increasing hemoglobin levels and erythrocyte count. Method: Twenty-four male Wistar rats strain (Rattusnorvegicus) 9−10 weeks old and 200−250 grams were divided into four groups (n=6), normal as a no treatment, negative control, ethanol extract, and positive control during the 15thday. Blood samples on the 15thday were administered to determine blood count. Result: The resultsof this study showed differences in hemoglobin and erythrocyte levels in the four experimental groups.The significant difference in average hemoglobin levels between Group 2 and Group 3 with a P-value &lt;0.05 (P value 0.00). The difference between Group 2 and Group 4 is significant with a P-value &lt;0.05 (P value 0.00), and the difference between Group 3 and Group 4 is significant with a P-value &lt;0.05 (P value 0.03). the significant difference in the average erythrocyte counts between Group 2 and Group 3 with a P-value &lt;0.05 (P value 0.00). The difference between Group 2 and Group 4 is not significant with a P-value &gt;0.05 (P value 0.07). The difference between Group 3 and Group 4 has a P-value &gt;0.05 (P value 0.63). Conclusion: The research results indicate that pregnant Wistar rats experienced hemodilution characterized by a decrease in hemoglobin and erythrocyte levels during pregnancy. However, after being given ethanol extract from moringa leaves, there was an increase in hemoglobin and erythrocyte levels. Keywords: Extract; ethanol; moringa; oleifera; hemoglobin

Akkermansia muciniphila extracellular vesicles have a protective effect against hypertension.

Akkermansia muciniphila (Am) shows a beneficial role as a probiotic in the treatment of metabolic syndrome. However, the mechanism remains to be elucidated. We tested the hypothesis that Am extracellular vesicles (AmEVs) have a protective effect against hypertension. Extracellular vesicles purified from anaerobically cultured Am were characterized by nanoparticle tracking analysis, transmission electron microscopy, and silver stain after sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). AmEVs (1.0 × 1010 log particles/L) or vehicles were added into organ baths to induce vasorelaxation. In addition, AmEVs (1.0 × 108 or 1.0 × 109 particles/kg) or vehicles were injected into the tail veins of Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKYs) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) weekly for 4 weeks. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and splenocytes isolated from both rat strains were analyzed by flow cytometry, RT-qPCR, and western blot. AmEVs affected neither vascular contraction nor endothelial relaxation in thoracic aortas. Moreover, AmEVs protected against the development of hypertension in SHRs without a serious adverse reaction. Additionally, AmEVs increased the population of T regulatory (Treg) cells and tended to reduce proinflammatory cytokines. These results indicate that AmEVs have a protective effect against hypertension without a serious adverse reaction. Therefore, it is foreseen that AmEVs may be utilized as a novel therapeutic for the treatment of hypertension.

Development and Characterization of Electrodes Coated with Plasma-Synthesized Polypyrrole Doped with Iodine, Implanted in the Rat Brain Subthalamic Nucleus.

Biological treatments involve the application of metallic material coatings to enhance biocompatibility and properties. In invasive therapies, metallic electrodes are utilized, which are implanted in patients. One of these invasive therapeutic procedures is deep brain stimulation (DBS), an effective therapy for addressing the motor disorders observed in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD). This therapy involves the implantation of electrodes (IEs) into the subthalamic nucleus (STN). However, there is still a need for the optimization of these electrodes. Plasma-synthesized polypyrrole doped with iodine (PPPy/I) has been reported as a biocompatible and anti-inflammatory biomaterial that promotes nervous system regeneration. Given this information, the objective of the present study was to develop and characterize a PPPy/I-coated electrode for implantation into the STN. The characterization results indicate a uniform coating along the electrode, and physical-chemical characterization studies were conducted on the polymer. Subsequently, the IEs, both coated and uncoated with PPPy/I, were implanted into the STN of male rats of the Wistar strain to conduct an electrographic recording (EG-R) study. The results demonstrate that the IE coated with PPPy/I exhibited superior power and frequency signals over time compared to the uncoated IE (p < 0.05). Based on these findings, we conclude that an IE coated with PPPy/I has optimized functional performance, with enhanced integrity and superior signal quality compared to an uncoated IE. Therefore, we consider this a promising technological development that could significantly improve functional outcomes for patients undergoing invasive brain therapies.