Retro-orbital Puncture Research Articles

Antidiabetic and Wound Healing Activity of Polyherbal Formulation Sarkaraikolli on Rats

Aim: To investigate the anti-diabetic and wound healing activity of polyherbal formulation sarkaraikolli on rats. Materials and Method: In this model, animals were administered with test and standard samples by oral route. Frequently blood samples were taken and examined for blood glucose levels, which were assessed using a glucometer. The animals were sacrificed by 2 hours on the 21st day after the treatment by cervical dislocation and biochemical studies were performed. The blood samples were collected and serum was separated by centrifugation at 3000 rpm for 15 minutes after a retro-orbital puncture. Different procedures were performed for the determination of liver enzyme tests. In the model of anti-diabetic animals were evenly divided into 5 groups. Group-1 and Group-2 served as untreated and model controls respectively, while Group-3, 4, and 5 were the treatment groups which were simultaneously treated with standard, 250 and 500 mg/kg extract respectively after glucose loading. Results: Sarkaraikolli possesses significant anti-diabetic, and wound healing activity when compared to the conventional medicine like Glibenclamide. Significant anti-diabetic action is visible due to lower blood glucose levels and maintenance of steady body weights. Sarkaraikolli wound healing activity is demonstrated by higher wound healing activity as compared to the standard medication.

Histopathological and Biochemical Effects of Methanol and Aqueous Extracts of the Leaf of Irvingia Gabonensis (African wild mango) on the liver of Albino Wistar Rat

Background: The use of Irvingia gabonensis locally for different purposes from eating down to drinking its extracts and concoctions for treating various ailments has been a common practice over the ages. The liver is a very vital metabolic organ and the central site for food and drug metabolism and subsequent excretion. In that case, the understanding of the effects of these foods and drugs both orthodox and herbal is ever invaluable both to the clinicians and the patients. This research work aims to investigate the effects of its leaf extract on the liver using histological and biochemical parameters. Methods: The experimental rats (n=20) used were divided into five (5) groups of four (4) each. Group one served as control and received only water and standard pellets. Groups two and three were administered with the methanolic extract of 150 mg/ kg and 300 mg/kg respectively. Groups four and five were administered with the aqueous extract of 250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg respectively. The liver samples were harvested, fixed and processed in an automated tissue processor. The blood sample obtained through retro-orbital puncture was made to clot. The serum was then used to analyze the ALT, AST, ALP and Bilirubin content of the liver. Results were obtained and analyzed statistically, showing a significant (p < 0.05) increase in the AST and ALP levels in groups three (3) and five (5). The Serum bilirubin and ALT levels showed insignificant (p > 0.05) increases in all the groups. The photomicrograph indicates mild fibrosis and sinusoidal dilations and cellular infiltrations in groups three and five with no visual changes in the rest of the groups. Conclusion: The findings suggest that at high doses of both methanolic and aqueous extracts (300 and 500mg/kg respectively), the leaf extract is mildly toxic to the liver.

Influence of Allium Sativum on the Hypoglycaemic Activity of Gliclazide in Normal Rats: A Possible Approach to Herb-Drug Interaction

This study depicts the selected dose of Allium sativum (104 mg/kg body weight) on the hypoglycemic activity of preferred dose of gliclazide which are studied in normal wistar rats. Materials required for the study are procured from Sai Chemicals, Visakhapatnam, India. Mature wistar rats of both the sex were used for the study. Prior to the trial the rats were confined for 18 hr with access to water ad libitum. During the study water was removed. Orally gliclazide was administered at 0.5 mg/kg, 1 mg/kg, 2 mg/kg body weight to I, II and III groups respectively. Blood samples are taken by retro-orbital puncture at intervals of 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12 & 16 hr and blood glucose levels were determined by GOD/POD method. The acute dose of Allium sativum when given along with gliclazide increased the hypoglycemic activity of gliclazide at 2nd, 6th and 8th hr intervals but it was significant at 2nd hr only and the effect was shown to be reduced at all other ie., 1st, 3rd, 10th and 12th hr time intervals. The aqueous extract of Allium sativum is influencing the absorption pattern of gliclazide since it was reported to have an increasing motility of the gastro intestinal tract.

Pharmacological Evaluation of Ovulation Inducing Potential of Siddha Herbomineral Formulation Arputha Mathirai on Estradiol Valerate Induced Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome Wistar Albino Rat Model

Aim: The aim of this study is to examine the potential of Arputha Mathirai, a tablet-based Siddha herbomineral formulation, in promoting ovulation in Wistar Albino rats with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) induced by Estradiol Valerate (EV).
 Place of Study: The study took place at C.L. Baid Metha College of Pharmacy located in Thorapakkam, Chennai - 600 092, Tamil Nadu.
 Methodology: Arputha Mathirai, the Siddha herbomineral formulation, was prepared in accordance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) guidelines. Prior to conducting the study, approval was obtained from the Institutional Animal Ethics Committee (IAEC). The research adhered to ethical principles and guidelines established by the committee responsible for overseeing and regulating animal experimentation, ensuring proper control and supervision.
 Female Wistar Albino rats were selected as the preferred rodent species for the study. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) was induced in the animals by administering subcutaneous injection of 100μg Estardiol valerate (EV). The reproductive cycles of the rats were synchronized to ensure consistency.
 The rats were divided into four groups, each containing six rats, as follows:
 
 Group I: Normal Control animals received 1 ml/kg of Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC) solution.
 Group II: Rats were orally administered Arputha Mathirai at a dosage of 100 mg/kg for 10 days.
 Group III: Rats were orally administered Arputha Mathirai at a dosage of 200 mg/kg for 10 days.
 Group IV: Received Clomiphene at a dosage of 10 mg/kg and served as the standard group.
 
 At the end of the study, blood samples were collected from the rats through retro-orbital and cardiac puncture. The levels of luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), estradiol, and progesterone were estimated using ELISA method. Ovaries from the experimental rats were dissected out for histopathological studies.
 Results: The results consistently showed that the higher dosage of the drug (group III) had a more pronounced effect in normalizing hormone levels compared to the lower dosage group. However, it is important to note that the lower dosage group also exhibited effectiveness. While the results in both groups did not closely match those of the standard group (group IV), the drug Arputha Mathirai demonstrated significant potential in the experimental groups, supporting its efficacy in inducing ovulation.
 Furthermore, the histopathological analysis confirmed the drug's potential in inducing ovulation, particularly in the higher dosage group (group III) compared to the lower dosage group (group II).
 Overall, the findings suggest that Arputha Mathirai has promising ovulation-inducing activity, with the higher dosage showing more pronounced effects.
 Conclusion: It is hypothesized that the bioactive phytocompounds present in Arputha Mathirai may exert their effects at various stages to restore hormone levels and reverse the pathological condition associated with PCOS. These natural compounds have the potential to regulate hormone levels and promote ovulation. However, it is important to acknowledge that there is a scarcity of published evidence regarding the specific ability of these phytochemicals to address the underlying causes of the condition. Further research is needed to explore the mechanisms by which these compounds act and their potential in addressing the root causes of PCOS.

Effect of mobile phone radiofrequency electromagnetic radiations on oxidative stress and feeding behaviour in Sprague Dawley (SD) rats

Objectives: Radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR) from mobile phones is known to produce a stress response because of its effect on hypothalamus. Mobile phones have become an integral part of our lives with increasing usage not only in terms of number of users but also increase in talk time. The present study aimed to study the effect of mobile phone radiofrequency electromagnetic radiations on oxidative stress and feeding behaviour assessment in Sprague Dawley (SD) rats. Materials and Methods: Twelve male SD rats of 10–12 weeks old, weighing 180–220 g, were housed and allowed to acclimatise in a room with 12:12 h light-dark cycle with ad libitum amount of food and reverse osmosis (RO) water before the start of the study. Then, rats were divided into control and RF-EMR exposed groups, and everyday feed intake and body weight were measured. At the end of the study period, blood sample was collected through retro orbital puncture for biochemical investigations. Results: The present study showed significant increase in malondialdehyde and serum corticosterone levels and decrease feeding behaviour in rats exposed to RF-EMR in rats exposed to RF-EMR. Conclusion: This study proves that mobile RF-EMR causes oxidative stress and oxidative damage leading to decreased feeding behaviour in SD rats.

Effects of heterologous platelet-rich plasma on liver enzymes, oxidative stress biomarkers and pancreatic microarchitecture in diabetic mice

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder associated with inflammation and oxidative stress. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has an established role in alleviating DM. The current study aimed to evaluate the effect of heterologous PRP on liver functioning, oxidative stress, and microarchitecture of pancreatic islets in diabetic mice. Twenty-four (24) healthy male (4–5 weeks old) albino mice were selected and grouped as G1, G2, G3, and G4 (n ​= ​6). G1 was control group and remained untreated while G2 (PRP group) was given a subcutaneous dose of PRP (0.5 ​mL/kg body weight) twice a week for four weeks. G3 and G4 were first given a single dose of alloxan intraperitoneally (150 ​mg/kg) to induce diabetes. PRP treatment (0.5 ​mL/kg body weight) was given to G4 only for four weeks (twice a week). Completion of experimentation was followed by blood collection through the retro-orbital puncture and dissection for pancreas excision. Sera were isolated and liver functioning and oxidative stress were assessed. ALT (P ​= ​0.0022) and AST (P ​= ​0.0010) level were found higher in G3 compared to control (G1). Conversely, PRP treatment reduced it significantly in G4. MDA (P ​< ​0.0001) and GSH (P ​< ​0.0001) also showed a statistically significant difference while CAT (P ​= ​0.5288) showed no significant difference among all groups. Furthermore, histological analyses revealed the deformation in the microarchitecture of the pancreas in G3 as it displayed vacuolated cytoplasm, damaged islets, and collagen deposition. PRP treatment restored the islets as it was observed in G4. Results revealed that PRP restored transaminases and oxidative stress biomarkers in DM and ameliorate pancreatic microarchitecture.

Acute toxicity study of hydroalcoholic extract of two Indian medicinal plants Alternanthera ficoidea and Ludwigia octovalvis

Background: The ethano-pharmacological survey on two Indian medicinal plants Alternanthera ficoidea and Ludwigia octovalvis revels that both plants are biologically potential and effective in the management of various diseases. Despite the both the plants as whole are used traditionally by the local people in Indian subcontinent but the toxicity studies on whole plant extract of both plant has not explored scientifically. Objective: The toxicity study was designed to explore the toxicity potential associated to hydroalcoholic extract of whole plant of Alternanthera ficoidea and Ludwigia octovalvis according OECD guidelines. Material and methods: Healthy Charles Foster albino female rats of 8-12 weeks’ old were divided in 3 groups. Group I, group II, and group III received vehicle (0.5% CMC, p.o., single dose), hydroalcoholic extract of whole plant of Alternanthera ficoidea (HAF) (Single dose of 2000 mg/kg, given orally), and hydroalcoholic extract of whole plant of Ludwigia octovalvis (HLO) (Single dose of 2000 mg/kg, given orally), respectively. After 14 days, all rats were anesthetized with chloroform and blood were collected by retro-orbital capillary puncture for the study of haematological and biochemical parameters. After blood collection, rats were sacrificed; organs were carefully collected, weighted and examined for changes. Results: The acute toxicity study on Charles foster female rats showed that there was no sign and symptoms of toxicity were seen in rats of all group. Haematological parameters, biochemical parameters and histopathological architectures of various organs of treated groups were found to be non-significant and normal in range when compared with normal control groups. Conclusion: The study found that no mortality occurred at a dosage of 2 g/kg of HAF and HLO, and it came to the conclusion that the IC50 of HAF and HLO was higher than that level.

Effect of Azadirachta indica against Sodium Benzoate Induced Hepatorenal Toxicity in Wistar Rats- An Experimental Interventional Study

Introduction: Azadirachta indica (Neem) is one of the widely used plants which has various medicinal properties like antipyretic, antimicrobial, antitumour, anti-inflammatory, antiulcer and antidiabetic effects. Silymarin-a milk thistle derivative has its own clinical significance. Sodium Benzoate (SB) is a versatile food preservative used in packaged food and drink industries which is consumed by the people unknowingly above World Health Organisation (WHO) standards which causes potential cytotoxicity. Aim: To evaluate the effect of Azadirachta indica leaf extract and the combination effect of Azadirachta indica leaf extract (Neem) with Silymarin against SB induced hepatorenal toxicity in adult male albino wistar rats. Materials and Methods: This experimental interventional animal study was conducted at Central Animal House at Aarupadai Veedu Medical College and Hospital, Puducherry, India from July 2021 to August 2021 for a period of 14 days. Total 30 male wistar rats were randomised into five groups with six rats into each group. The groups were Group 1 Control received only distilled water, Group 2 SB 200 mg/kg bw (SB) alone, Group 3 SB+Silymarin 100 mg/kg bw, Group 4 SB+ Azadirachta indica aqueous extract 400 mg/kg bw, Group 5 SB+Silymarin 100 mg/ kg bw+Azadirachta indica aqueous extract 400 mg/kg bw for 14 days through oral gavage. Doses and duration were determined based on previous studies. Blood was drawn from a retroorbital puncture, animals were sacrificed by euthanasia, a part of Liver and Kidney samples were sent for histopathological examination-cell structure, integrity, inflammation. Biochemical parameters of liver function tests-Serum Alanine Transaminase (ALT), Serum Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), Serum Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) and Kidney function tests: urea, creatinine and uric acid were measured in serum. Statistical analysis were done by one-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) followed by Dunnet’s post-hoc test used for intergroup comparison, p-value &lt;0.05 considered to be significant. Results: There was a significant increase in the activities of liver enzymes ALT, AST, ALP and kidney function (creatinine, uric acid) in the SB alone treated group when compared with the control group. Hepatorenal protection of Neem extract was shown by significant decrease in liver and renal parameters which was comparable to that of control and Silymarin standard drug. Combination of silymarin and neem showed significant protection in liver (ALT, AST, ALP) and kidney function (urea, creatinine, uric acid) when compared to neem alone treated group. All the results were substantiated by histopathological examination of liver and kidney tissues. Conclusion: This study suggests effect of Azadirachta indica leaf extract with Silymarin possess hepatorenoprotective effect against SB induced damage in rats. Combination effect of Azadirachta indica leaf extract with Silymarin significantly proved the hepatorenal protectivity when compared with Neem alone treated group.

Validated Bio-Analytical Method for Cinacalcet Concentrations in Rat Plasma by Reversed Phase-High Performance Liquid Chromatography- Photodiode Array Detector Method

The goal of this work was to create and verify a simple reversed phase-high performance liquid chromatography-photodiode array detector-based method for quantifying cinacalcet in rat plasma. Six albino Wistar rats were given cinacalcet orally by oral gavage. Blood was obtained at regular intervals using retro-orbital vein puncture and processed to get plasma. Cinacalcet was extracted from plasma using a 70:30 v/v ethanol:dichloromethane combination, with an 82.80 %-104.08 % recovery rate. The reversed phase-high performance liquid chromatography-photodiode array detector technique was used to determine cinacalcet plasma concentrations. The mobile phase was acetonitrile:0.1 M dipotassium phosphate buffer (pH 6.8) (50:50 v/v) at a flow rate of 1.0 ml/min. 241.0 nm was used as the detecting wavelength. The method's linearity for cinacalcet was proven by a correlation coefficient (R2) of more than 0.9996 and a linear range of 1 μg/ml to 24 μg/ml for cinacalcet. The lower and upper limits of quantification were found to be 1 μg/ml and 24 μg/ml respectively. At the cinacalcets retention time, no interfering peaks were seen. This reversed phase-high performance liquid chromatography-photodiode array detector approach is a straightforward and effective way to determine pharmacokinetic parameters by measuring plasma cinacalcet levels.

Drug Interaction of Minoxidil and Himplasia with Oral Anti Diabetic Drug Sitagliptin in Diabetic Rats

Aim and Objective: Sitagliptin is given as an oral antidiabetic drug to treat Diabetes Mellitus. Minoxidil and himplasia may be co-prescribed along with sitagliptin to treat hypertension and BPH respectively. As such no information is available regarding the interaction taking place between sitagliptin, minoxidil and himplasia. Hence the present work has been aimed to find out the interaction with among the above said drugs in rodent model, since such studies cannot be performed in humans. Methods: Studies were conducted in normal and alloxan induced diabetic rats with oral doses of 9mg/kg B.W of sitagliptin, 9mg/kg B.W of minoxidil and 54mg /k g of himplasia and their combinations with adequate washout periods in between the treatments. Blood samples were collected at regular time intervals in rats through retro orbital puncture. All the blood samples were analyzed for blood glucose by GOD/POD method in pharmacodynamic studies and the serum sitagliptin concentrations were estimated by UV Spectrophotometry. Serum insulin was estimated by chemiluminescence assay. Results: Sitagliptin showed hypoglycemic action in both normal and diabetic rats and the peak action was observed at 6 h. Hyperglycemia was observed with minoxidil at 1st hour, hypoglycemia was observed with himplasia at 4th hour and the combination of minoxidil and himplasia showed biphasic response in blood glucose levels. The same responses were observed even in combination with sitagliptin. The serum sitagliptin concentrations were not altered by the co-administration of drugs. Serum insulin levels were inhibited by administration of minoxidil and potentiated by himplasia and initial reduction followed by surge observed with combination of minoxidil and himplasia. The similar responses were observed when co-administered with sitagliptin. Conclusion: Thus it could be concluded that the combination of minoxidil and himplasia should be taken with care for clinical benefits in diabetic patients. However, further studies should be carried out in non rodent species and in clinical settings are warranted.

Effects of Aqueous and Methanol Extracts of Cocos nucifera (Coconut) Milk on Testosterone Level and Testes of Male Albino Rats

Aims: This study was designed to investigate the effect of aqueous and methanol extracts of Cocos nucifera (coconut) milk on the testosterone levels and testes of male albino wistar rats.&#x0D; Study Design: A 15-day experimental study.&#x0D; Place and Duration of Study: Animal House and Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, between May 2019-November 2019.&#x0D; Methodology: Twenty five adult male albino rats were divided into five groups (I-V) of five rats each. Rats in group I received only water and standard feed throughout the experiment and served as control. Groups II and III received 163mg/kg and 326mg/kg of methanol extract of coconut milk (MECM) respectively, while group IV and V received 110mg/kg and 220mg/kg of aqueous extract of coconut milk (AECM) for two weeks. Upon completion of extract administration, the blood samples of the rats were obtained by a retro-orbital puncture of the median canthus for estimation of serum testosterone. The animals were sacrificed and the testes excised, weighed and fixed in 10% formal saline for 48hours prior to paraffin embedding for histological processing. Testes sections were processed and stained using the Haematoxylin and Eosin (H&amp;E) technique for light microscopical examination.&#x0D; Results: There was no significant difference in the relative testicular weight between the "control" and "treatment" groups following oral administration of MECM and AECM to rats. Similarly, there was no discernible variation in the testosterone levels between the "control" and "test" groups. Testicular histology showed normal seminiferous tubule with mild germinal epithelial sloughing, hence no increased spermatogenesis was observed in the experimental group.&#x0D; Conclusion: Extracts of Cocos nucifera milk had no significant short term effects on the testicular weight and the testosterone level of male Albino rats. In addition, extracts of Cocos nucifera milk at these doses may cause mild morphological alterations in the testes of rats.

Administration of Costus igneus Nak leaf extract improves diabetic-induced impairment in hepatorenal functions in male albino rats

ObjectivesThe present study was designed to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy Costus igneus Nak leaf extract against the diabetes-induced hepatorenal injury in rats. MethodsDiabetes was induced in male albino rats by administering single injection of streptozotocin (55 mg/kg) for one day. The diabetic condition was established by estimation of blood glucose level; animals with blood glucose levels above 250 mg were considered as diabetic. Following the confirmation, animals were randomly divided into seven experimental groups, viz group I served as the control, group II-CI-300mg/Kg (per se), group III-Diabetic, group IV-diabetic+CI (100mg/kg), group V-diabetic+CI (200mg/kg), group VI-Diabetic+CI (300 mg/kg) and group VII-diabetic+glibenclamide (0.5mg/kg). Treatment regimens were started 24 h after the confirmation of the successful induction of diabetes and continued for four consecutive weeks at three doses (100–300 mg/kg). After the completion of experimental period animals were sacrificed, blood was collected through retro-orbital puncture for separation of serum for assessment of liver (ALT, AST, ALP, albumin, globulin and bilirubin) and kidney-specific biomarkers (creatinine, urea, and uric acid, Na+ and K+), and inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, TGF-β1, IL-10. Liver and kidneys were harvested for histopathology and biochemical screening. Hepatorenal protective activity was evaluated by estimating different biochemical variables and histopathology by hematoxylin and eosin staining of the liver and kidney tissues. Results and ConclusionsThree different daily doses of the plant extract showed recovery in all the biochemical parameters such as lipid peroxidation, reduced glutathione, superoxide dismutase, catalase, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, glutathione reductase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione-S-transferase; ALT, AST, and ALP; creatinine, urea, and uric acid; total cellular protein content in tissues, glycogen content, and serum protein content (albumin and globulin); and inflammatory cytokines. However, significantly higher recovery was observed in the 300 mg/kg dose treated group of animals. Considerations of the serological, biochemical and histopathological studies, it may be concluded that that the C. igneus Nak leaf extract abolished various deleterious effects of type 1 diabetes induced hepatorenal functions.

In vivo anti platelet activity of methanolic leaf extract of Terminalia chebula in experimental animals

The present research work investigates the effect of methanolic leaf extracts of Terminalia chebula in vivo by using wester albino rats. The acute oral toxicity of methanolic leaf extracts of the Terminalia chebula was studied by Lorke method. Lethal dose (LD 50) of the plant extract was entrenched and experimental rats were divided into 4 groups and then rats were administered with various concentration of leaf methanolic extracts (50 mg/kg, 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg) respectively. To analyze the hematological parameters, blood was withdrawn from the retro orbital puncture. The LD50 was calculated at 547.72 mg/kg. There was no significant change in hematological parameters (p>0.05) were observed when group I compared with group II which was administered with the dose of 50 mg/kg methanolic leaf extracts of the Terminalia chebula. While group III of which received100 mg/kg of plant methanolic leaf extract of Terminalia chebula showed significance (p

Neurobehavioural and Neurochemical Changes in Arsenic Induced Cerebellar Toxicity in Male Sprague-Dawley Rats: An Experimental Study

Introduction: Sodium arsenite, an inorganic arsenic, is naturally present at high level (&gt;50 μg/L) in ground water. Drinking ground water is the biggest threat to public health. Though, there are numerous reports on arsenic neurotoxicity, the arsenic effect on cerebellar neurotoxicity remains vague especially its chronic effect on its neurobehavioural and neurochemical alterations. Aim: To evaluate the neurobehavioural and neurochemical alterations caused by sodium arsenite in cerebellum of rats. Materials and Methods: This experimental study was conducted in the Central Animal House at Sri Devaraj Urs Academy of Higher Education and Research (SDUAHER) from November 2019 to February 2020 for a period of 90 days. Total 16 male spraguedawley rats were randomised into two equal groups. Group I: Control, received normal saline. Group II: Sodium arsenite, Doses of 50 Parts per Millions (PPM) for 90 days through oral gavage. Rats were subjected to Open Field Test (OFT) for locomotor and exploratory behaviour and Beam Walking Test (BWT) for motor coordination and balance. Following behavioural tests, rats were anaesthetised. Blood was drawn from a retro-orbital puncture. Brains were dissected and cerebellum was separated. Concentration of Malondialdehyde (MDA), Nitric Oxide (NO) and activity of Glutathione Peroxidase (GPx) were assessed spectrophotometrically in serum and cerebellum of rats. Mean±SD was used for normally distributed data and groups were compared using independent t-test, whereas for non normally distributed data, Median (25th-75th Percentile) was used and Mann-Whitney U-test was used to compare between two groups. Results: Arsenic-treated rats showed a significant increase in arsenic concentration in serum and cerebellum (5.5±1.6 ng/mL, 2.76±0.56 µg/g, respectively) compared to control (1.14±0.43 ng/mL, 0.65±0.29 µg/g, respectively). There was a significant decrease in locomotor and exploratory behaviour and impairment in motor coordination and balance in arsenic treated rats with a p-value &lt;0.001 in comparison with control rats. The arsenic treated rats had significantly enhanced concentration of MDA and NO level and reduced activity of GPx in serum {16.84 (13.84-18.87), 33.79 (30.05-37.17) nmol/mL, and 6.89 (5.24- 8.5) mmoles of Reduced glutathione (GSH) oxidised/min/mL, respectively} compared to control {8.81 (8.36-9.48), 17.66 (15.33-21.29) nmol/mL, and 15.16 (12.77-16.59) mmoles of GSH oxidised/min/mL, respectively} and also found increased concentration of MDA and NO level and reduced activity of GPx in tissue {7.98 (7.14-8.92), 24.67 (21.4-28-22) nmol/mg of protein and 2.66 (1.19-3.86) mmoles of GSH oxidised/min/ mg protein, respectively} compared to control {3.02 (2.35-3.61), 13.93 (11.0-16.16) nmol/mg of protein and 7.63 (7.08-9.19) mmoles of GSH oxidised/min/mg protein, respectively}. Conclusion: The oral administration of sodium arsenite at the doses of 50 PPM for 90 days showed interesting alterations in neurobehavioural and neurochemical parameters related to cerebellum of rats.

Coadministration of Melatonin and Insulin Improves Diabetes-Induced Impairment of Rat Kidney Function

Introduction: The present study was designed to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of melatonin and insulin coadministration in diabetes-induced renal injury in rats. Research Design and Methods: Diabetes was achieved by giving streptozotocin (15 mg/kg) for 6 consecutive days. The diabetic condition was confirmed by assessing the blood glucose level; animals having blood glucose levels above 250 mg were considered as diabetic. Following the confirmation, animals were randomly divided into different experimental groups, viz group I served as the control (CON), group II diabetic (D), group III D+melatonin (MEL), group IV D+insulin (INS), group V D+MEL+INS, group VI D+glibenclamide (GB), group VII CON+MEL, group VIII CON+INS, and group IX CON+GB. Following the completion of the experimental period, animals were sacrificed, blood was collected via a retro-orbital puncture, and kidneys were harvested. Diabetic rats exhibited a significant increment in blood glucose and biochemical indexes of renal injury (tubular disruption, swollen glomeruli with loss of glomerular spaces, and distortion of the endothelial lining) including augmented levels of serum creatinine, urea, uric acid, Na+, and K+, and inhibition/suppression of the activity of glutathione (GSH) peroxidase, GSH reductase, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, and GSH-S-transferase in the renal cortex. Results: By examining thiobarbiturate reactive substances, reduced GSH, superoxide dismutase activity, and catalase activity in the renal cortex of control and diabetic rats, it was documented that treatment with melatonin or insulin alone or in combination showed a significant ad integrum recovery of GSH-dependent antioxidative enzymatic activities. Melatonin and insulin coadministration caused greater reductions in circulating tumor necrosis factor-α, tumor growth factor-β1, interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-6 levels in diabetic rats, whereas IL-10 levels increased, as compared to each treatment alone. Diabetic rats showed a significant increase in the expression of both MT1 and MT2 melatonin receptor genes. Melatonin or insulin treatment alone or in combination resulted in significant restoration of the relative expression of both melatonin receptors in the renal cortex. Conclusion: The coadministration of exogenous melatonin and insulin abolished many of the deleterious effects of type 1 diabetes on rat renal function.

TOXICOLOGICAL EVALUATION OF METHANOL SEED EXTRACT OF HUNTERIA UMBELLATA ON REPRODUCTIVE FUNCTIONS OF TREATED WISTAR RATS

Ethnomedicinal survey have shown that the different parts of Hunteria umbellata plant are used in Western and Southern parts of Nigeria in managing various human diseases such as sexually transmitted infections and to induce or augment labor. This is however, without information on its effect on reproductive functions. This study was therefore designed to ascertain if there is any health benefit or risk in the ingestion of Hunteria umbellata on reproductive functions. In this study, qualitative phytochemistry, acute toxicity test and the sub-chronic toxicity effects of 250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg/day of Hunteria umbellata (HU) methanol seed extract on reproductive functions in male and female Wistar rats were investigated for 90 days. To achieve this, effect of repeated doses of methanolic extracts of Hunteria umbellata seed were investigated on selected reproductive parameters of the test animals. Eighty (80) (40 male and 40 female) Wister rats, were randomly divided into 4 groups of 10 rats each. The first group received 10 ml/kg/day of distilled water and served as the control, while the second, third and fourth groups received 250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg/day of the extract for 90 days respectively. Blood samples were collected by retro-orbital puncture and delivered into plain tubes for hormonal assay, using ELISA hormone test kits (Biotec Laboratories Ltd, UK). After 90 days, the rats were anesthetized using chloroform. The histology of the testes and ovaries were also carried out. Result revealed that the prolonged treatment with methanol seed extracts of Hunteria umbellata for 90 days, caused minimal decreases (p&gt;0.05) in testosterone, estrogen, progesterone level in all the extract treated groups as compared with the control group. Also, no significant distortions were observed in the histology of testes and ovaries. The results suggests that the prolonged oral treatment with 250-1000 mg/kg/day of the methanol extract of the seed of Hunteria umbellata did not have any effect on the reproductive functions as well as the reproductive organs in males and females’ rats treated, and could be safe following repeated use.

Formulation, Optimization and Pharmacodynamic Studies of Pioglitazone HCl Solid Lipid Nanoparticles

Pioglitazone HCl is an oral anti-diabetic agent used for the treatment of diabetes mellitus type II. The aim of the present work is to evaluate the pharmacodynamic activity of solid lipid nanoparticles of pioglitazone HCL prepared by using solvent injection technique and to compare with the control and test group. Among all the formulations, F5 was found to possess highest in-vitro drug release within 24 hrs i.e., 95.02±1.26%. The in vivo studies were performed using male albino rats of wistar strain (150-200g). Rats were divided in to five groups (n=6), group-I normal, group-II diabetes control, group-III placebo control, group-IV reference, group-V test group. Diabetes was induced by streptazocin (60 mg/kg) by intraperitonial route. The reference group was treated with marketed tablet of pioglitazone HCL, test groups were treated with SLNs suspended in 0.1% Tween 80 and given to animals through oral gavages. Blood samples were collected by retro-orbital puncture before treatment, and after treatment at time intervals 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12 and 24h in anti-coagulated vials. Parameters like glucose, tri glycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC) and HDL-C were estimated by calorimetric method. Diabetes induced rats showed elevated levels of glucose, TG, TC and reduced HDL. The oral administration of drug loaded SLNs in 0.1% Tween 80 solution showed reduced levels of glucose, TG and elevated levels of HDL-C and slightly reduced levels of TG in 24 h where as the marketed tablet showed reduced levels of glucose, TG and TC up-to 12 h and in 24thh the glucose levels get elevated. Thus the optimized SLNs showed prolonged activity.

Protective effect of Majoon Muṣaffī-i-Khūn (MMK) in cyclophosphamide-induced thrombocytopenia in male Sprague Dawley rats

Aim of the study: To evaluate the efficacy of Majoon Muṣaffī-i-Khūn (MMK) in cyclophosphamide-induced thrombocytopenia in male Sprague Dawley rats. Material and Methods: Thrombocytopenia was induced by administration of Cyclophosphamide (25 mg/kg, 3 days, SC). Simultaneously, the animals were treated with MMK (300 and 600 mg/kg) orally and continued for three weeks. After completion of treatment, blood samples were collected by retro-orbital puncture and analyzed for WBC, RBC, Hb, and platelet counts, with bleeding and clotting time. MMK insignificantly increased the platelets, WBC, RBC, and Hb with a significant decreased in bleeding (p&lt;0.001; p&lt;0.05) and clotting times (P&lt;0.01, P&lt;0.001) which was altered by cyclophosphamide. Results: The results demonstrated that MMK improved platelet counts, clotting, and bleeding time as well as restored the altered level of WBC, RBC, and Hb. Conclusion: Based on the above results it can be concluded that the hydroalcoholic extract of MMK may have the potential to normalize the blood composition effectively.

Antiatherogenic activity of silybin in Wistar rats: an experimental study

Background: Dyslipidemia is the major contributor to an increased risk of atherosclerosis. Furthermore, Atherosclerosis presently comprises one of the essential contributors to a global epidemic of cardiovascular disease and turn out to be the leading cause of death and disability worldwide. Natural antioxidants have been shown to be effective in reducing lipid profiles and mitigate peroxidative modification of lipoproteins and atherosclerosis. The aim of the study was to explore the antiatherogenic effect of silybin through its antioxidant mechanism in Wister rats fed on hypercholesterolemic diet.Methods: Male Wistar rats of 150-200 g were used for this study. Hypercholesterolemia in rats was induced by administration of high cholesterol diet. The Wister rats were divided into four groups, each with eight rats. After 60 days blood samples were drawn by retro-orbital puncture for biochemical analysis. The animals were sacrificed by cervical dislocation and liver and aorta were dissected out and processed for histopathological study and biochemical analyses.Results: In the histopathological study high cholesterol fed Wister rats showed fatty degeneration of hepatocytes with leucocytic infiltration of sinusoids. The level of TBARS was significantly increased in high cholesterol diet fed rats (p&lt;0.05). Silybin at both doses [300 mg/kg (1593.00±81.08) and 600 mg/kg (1596.00±28.81)] reduced the plasma TBARS significantly (p&lt;0.05). The antioxidant enzyme levels were also reduced significantly in high cholesterol diet fed rats (p&lt;0.05).Conclusions: The study suggests a conclusive evidence of silybin has antiatherogenic action. Its safety profile, availability and low cost are an added advantage to the presently available pharmacological therapy. Hence, silybin can be considered in conjunction with other available dyslipidemic medication in the market.

Evaluation of Changes in Biochemical and Haematological Parameters of Albino Rats Following Subacute Oral Administration of Cinnamomum cassia (Cinnamon) Extract

Background: Cinnamomum cassia stem bark is used traditionally for the treatment of digestive disorders, diabetes and to alleviate symptoms of cold or flu.&#x0D; Aim: The present study evaluated biochemical and haematological changes in male albino rats after exposure to the stem bark ethanolic extract of Cinnamomum cassia (SBECC).&#x0D; Study Design: An experimental study which lasted for 19 days.&#x0D; Place and Duration of Study: Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences and Animal House, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, between April 2019 and August 2019.&#x0D; Methodology: Twenty (20) rats weighing 130-170 g were used. Graded doses (100, 200 and 400mg/kg body weight) of the SBECC were orally administered to the animals in groups B, C and D respectively, once daily for 18 days. Group A served as the normal control and received only the vehicle (5ml/kg of 0.25N sodium carbonate). On Day 19, body weights of the rats were measured and blood samples obtained via retro-orbital puncture, were placed into plain tubes and tri-potassium ethylene diamine tetra-acetic acid (K3EDTA) containers for biochemical and haematological studies respectively.&#x0D; Results: Weight gain was observed in all treatment groups and control. The highest and lowest percentage weight gain was observed in Group C (51%) and Group B (33%) respectively. All the doses of the extract significantly decreased serum cholesterol levels when compared to the control (P&lt;0.05). Treatment with 400mg/kg SBECC (Group D) significantly increased serum Alkaline phosphatase (224.00±12.88iu/l) and creatinine levels (85.60±7.40) when compared to the control (140.00±26.47 and 63.60±7.60 respectively) (P&lt;0.05), whereas treatment with 200mg/kg SBECC significantly increased urea and creatinine levels (P&lt;0.05). No significant changes were observed in the haematological parameters of the treated rats compared to the control.&#x0D; Conclusion: Sub-acute oral administration of Cinnamomum cassia stem bark extract at doses lower than 500 mg/kg may not exert toxic effects on haematological parameters but can alter some serum biochemical parameters in rats.