Serum Aspartate Aminotransferase Activities Research Articles

Intestinal microbiomics and hepatic metabolomics insights into the potential mechanisms of probiotic Bifidobacterium pseudolongum CCFM1253 preventing acute liver injury in mice.

Bifidobacterium pseudolongum is widely exists in mammal gut and its abundance is associated with human and animal health. The present study aimed to investigate the potential mechanisms of B. pseudolongum CCFM1253 on protecting against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute liver injury (ALI) by metagenomic analysis and liver metabolomic profiles. Bifidobacterium pseudolongum CCFM1253 preintervention remarkably attenuated the influence of LPS on serum alanine transaminase and aspartate amino transferase activities. B. pseudolongum CCFM1253 preintervention remarkably attenuated the inflammation responses (tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β, and interleukin-6) and elevated antioxidative enzymes activities [total antioxidant capacity, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase] in ALI mice by intervening in the Nf-kβ and Nrf2 pathways, respectively. Bifidobacterium pseudolongum CCFM1253 treatment elevated the proportion of Alistipes and Bifidobacterium, and decreased the proportion of uncultured Bacteroidales bacterium, Muribaculum, Parasutterella and Ruminococcaceae UCG-010 in ALI mice, which were strongly correlated with the inhibition of inflammation responses and oxidative stress. Untargeted liver metabolomics exhibited that the hepatoprotective efficacy of B. pseudolongum CCFM1253 might be achieved by altering liver metabolites-related riboflavin metabolism, phenylalanine metabolism, alanine, citrate cycle (tricarboxylic acid cycle), and so on. Furthermore, riboflavin exposure could control the contents of malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase, and catalase in hydrogen peroxide-treated HepG2 cells. Bifidobacterium pseudolongum CCFM1253 can effectively alleviate inflammatory response and oxidative stress, and regulate the intestinal microbiota composition and liver metabolism, and elevate the liver riboflavin content in LPS-treated mice. Therefore, B. pseudolongum CCFM1253 could serves as a potential probiotic to ameliorate the host health. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.

Kefir peptides attenuate atherosclerotic vascular calcification and osteoporosis in atherogenic diet-fed ApoE -/- knockout mice.

Aims: Vascular calcification (VC) and osteoporosis were previously considered two distinct diseases. However, current understanding indicates that they share common pathogenetic mechanisms. The available medicines for treating VC and osteoporosis are limited. We previously demonstrated that kefir peptides (KPs) alleviated atherosclerosis in high-fat diet (HFD)-induced apolipoprotein E knockout (ApoE -/- ) mice. The present study further addressed the preventive effects of KPs on VC and osteoporosis in ApoE -/- mice fed a high-cholesterol atherogenic diet (AD). Main methods: Seven-week-old ApoE -/- and wild-type C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into five groups (n = 6). The development of VC and osteoporosis was evaluated after AD feeding for 13weeks in KP-treated ApoE -/- mice and compared to C57BL/6 and ApoE -/- mice fed a standard chow diet (CD). Key findings: The results indicated that KP-treated ApoE -/- mice exhibited lower serum total cholesterol, oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL), malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, and serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and creatine kinase (CK) activities, which suggested that KPs prevented hyperlipidemia and possible damages to the liver and muscle in ApoE -/- mice. KPs reduced serum tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and the local expression of TNF-α, IL-1β, and macrophage-specific CD68 markers in aortic tissues, which suggested that KPs inhibited inflammatory responses in AD-fed ApoE -/- mice. KPs reduced the deposition of lipid, collagen, and calcium minerals in the aortic roots of AD-fed ApoE -/- mice, which suggested that KPs inhibited the calcific progression of atherosclerotic plaques. KPs exerted osteoprotective effects in AD-fed ApoE -/- mice, which was evidenced by lower levels of the bone resorption marker CTX-1 and higher levels of the bone formation marker P1NP. KPs improved cortical bone mineral density and bone volume and reduced trabecular bone loss in femurs. Significance: The present data suggested that KPs attenuated VC and osteoporosis by reducing oxidative stress and inflammatory responses in AD-fed ApoE -/- mice. Our findings contribute to the application of KPs as preventive medicines for the treatment of hyperlipidemia-induced vascular and bone degeneration.

Blood Parameters, Kidney Histology and Growth Performances in Gallus gallus Domesticus (Brahma) Hens Fed a Diet Supplemented with Dacryodes edulis (Safou) Powder Leaves

The leaf extracts of Dacryodes edulis possess high concentrations of alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids, and tannins with various biological activities, including antimicrobial, antifungal, and antioxidant activities. These activities can be used in animal production to avoid the energy lost in favor of growth and reproduction. A total of 48 Brahma hens (45 days old), weighing on average 400 ± 12 g, were randomly distributed into four dietary treatment groups (12 birds each) with four replicates per group. The control group (T0) received 0% D. edulis, while the three test groups (T0.25, T0.50, and T0.75) were given feed with D. edulis powder leaves at concentrations of 0.25, 0.5, and 0.75%, respectively, for a period of 60 days. Water and feed were supplied ad libitum. At the end of the study period (60 days), eight birds per treatment (two per replicate) were fasted, weighed, and slaughtered. Blood samples and organs were collected for analysis of growth characteristics, oxidative stress, and toxicity indices. This study revealed a significant (p < 0.05) increase in feed intake and live body weight with 0.75% D. edilus powder leaves. Abdominal fat was found to be significantly (p < 0.05) lower with 0.75% D. edilus powder leaves compared to the control group. Serum Aspartate aminotransferase activity was significantly (p < 0.05) lower in birds exposed to 0.75% D. edulis leaf powder compared to the control group. The use of D. edulis leaf powder as feed additive in feed could reduce oxidative stress and improve growth performance in Brahma. More research can be conducted on D. edilus, and it can be used in broiler feed at 0.75% concentration, which has shown a significant increase and decrease, respectively, in live body weight and serum aspartate aminotransferase activity.

Hepatoprotective Effect of Methanolic Leaf Extract of Prosopis Cineraria on Paracetamol Induced Hepatotoxicity in Swiss Albino Mice

Aim: To evaluate the protective effect of methanolic leaf extract of Prosopis Cineraria on paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity in mice. Materials and Methods: 30 Swiss albino mice of eithersex mice were used in this study and divided into 5 groups (for each 6). Group 1 Control group fed basal diet and maintained as positive control group. Group 2 received Paracetamol in a dose of (3 g/kg b. wt.). Group 3 received Paracetamolalong with Standard Drug (Silymarin) in a dose of (100 mg/kg). Groups 4 and 5 were treated with Paracetamol along with plant extracts of Prosopis Cineraria at a dose level of 250 g/kg and 500 mg/kg. Results:The activities of serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), triglyceride (TG), bilirubin, and total protein were measured. The values of urea, sodium, potassium and chloride were significantly increased in rats exposed to paracetamol. Moreover, administration of paracetamol resulted in damage to liver structures. Administration of methanolic extract of Prosopis Cineraria before Paracetamol exposure prevented severe alterations of biochemical parameters and disruptions of liver structures. Conclusions: This study obviously demonstrated that pre-treatment with methanolic extract of Prosopis Cinerariasignificantly attenuated the physiological and histopathological alterations induced by paracetamol.

Sodium benzoate exacerbates hepatic oxidative stress and inflammation in lipopolysaccharide-induced liver injury in rats

Background Liver damage is a global health concern associated with a high mortality rate. Sodium benzoate (SB) is a widely used preservative in the food industry with a wide range of applications. However, there’s a lack of scientific reports on its effect on lipopolysaccharide-induced hepatic dysfunction. Objective The present study investigated the influence of SB on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced liver injury. Materials and methods Twenty-eight rats were randomly allocated into four groups: control (received distilled water), SB (received 600 mg/kg), LPS (received 0.25 mg/kg), and LPS + SB (received LPS, 0.25 mg/kg, and SB, 600 mg/kg). SB was administered orally for 14 days while LPS was administered intraperitoneally for 7 days. Results Administration of SB to rats with hepatocyte injury exacerbated liver damage with a significant increase in the activities of serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). We also observed that SB aggravated LPS-mediated hepatic oxidative stress occasioned by a marked decrease in antioxidant status with a concomitant increase in lipid peroxidation. Furthermore, LPS – mediated increase in inflammatory biomarkers as well as histological deterioration in the liver was exacerbated following the administration of SB to rats. Conclusion Taken together, the study provides experimental evidence that SB exacerbates hepatic oxidative stress and inflammation in LPS-mediated liver injury.

THE IMPACT OF CHOLECALCIFEROL ON THE SEX HORMONES LEVEL AND SERUM BIOCHEMICAL INDICES IN RAT MALES WITH EXPERIMENTAL GONADOPATHY

THE IMPACT OF CHOLECALCIFEROL ON THE SEX HORMONES LEVEL AND SERUM BIOCHEMICAL INDICES IN RAT MALES WITH EXPERIMENTAL GONADOPATHY

The protective effects of baicalin and chrysin against emamectin benzoate-induced toxicity in Wistar albino rats.

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of baicalin, chrysin and their combinations against emamectin benzoate-induced toxicity in rats. For this purpose, sixty four rats were divided into evenly8 groups with 6-8-week-old male Wistar albino rats, weighing 180-250g, in each group. While the first group was kept as a control (corn oil), the remaining 7 groups were administered with emamectin benzoate (10mg/kg bw), baicalin (50mg/kg bw) and chrysin (50mg/kg bw) alone or together for 28days. Oxidative stress parameters, serum biochemical parameters and blood/tissue (liver, kidney, brain, testis and heart) and tissue histopathology were investigated. Compared to the control group, the emamectin benzoate-intoxicated rats had significantly higher tissue/plasma concentrations of nitric oxide(NO) and malondialdehyde(MDA), as well as lower tissue glutathione(GSH) concentrations and antioxidant enzyme activity (glutathione peroxidase/GSH-Px, glutathione reductase/GR, glutathione-S-transferase/GST, superoxide dismutase/SOD, catalase/CAT). Biochemical analysis showed that emamectin benzoate administration significantly increased serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activities, as well as triglyceride, cholesterol, creatinine, uric acid and urea levels, and decreased serum total protein and albumin levels. The histopathological examination of the liver, kidney, brain, heart and testis tissues of the emamectin benzoate-intoxicated rats demonstrated necrotic changes. Baicalin and/or chrysin reversed the biochemical and histopathological alterations induced by emamectin benzoate on these tested organs. Therefore, baicalin and chrysin (alone or in combination) could offer protection against emamectin benzoate-induced toxicity.

Protective effect of corn peptide on nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in rats induced by high fat diet

To explore the dose-effect and mechanism of the protective effect of corn peptide(CP) on nonalcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD). Seventy male SD rats were randomly divided into control group, model group, CP group, puerarin positive control group, low-, medium-, high-dose corn peptide group, the experiment started after 1 week of adaptive feeding. The control group and CP group were fed with ordinary feed and others were fed with high-fat feed, while the control group was given intragastric administration of purified water, the CP group and the low-, medium-, high-dose corn peptide group were given intragastric administration of corn peptide(800, 400, 600 and 800 mg/(kg·d), respectively), and the puerarin positive control group was given intragastric administration of 300 mg/(kg·d) of puerarin, for 10 weeks. The body weight and general condition of rats were recorded every week, after 10 weeks, the indexes of 7 groups were compared. Compared with the model group, the liver index(3.67, 3.29, 3.19 and 3.04, P<0.05) of the rats in the three doses of corn peptide groups decreased. The homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance(13.66, 11.82, 11.55 and 10.53, P<0.05) decreased. The serum triglyceride(TG)(0.59, 0.42, 0.34 and 0.28, P<0.05), total cholesterol(TC)(2.57, 2.10, 1.67 and 1.46, P<0.05), free fatty acid(FFA)(0.66, 0.44, 0.40 and 0.36, P<0.05), and leptin(10.64, 9.87, 9.43 and 9.05, P<0.05) decreased. The serum interleukin-6(74.61, 61.66, 51.12 and 35.68, P<0.05) and tumor necrosis factor-α(100.18, 74.13, 67.44 and 48.46, P<0.05) decreased. The serum aspartate aminotransferase(41.38, 19.41, 14.98 and 8.44, P<0.05) and alanine aminotransferase(25.14, 13.10, 11.57 and 7.48, P<0.05) activity decreased. The liver TG(9.89, 5.55, 4.73 and 3.13, P<0.05), TC(1.73, 0.97, 0.80 and 0.50, P<0.05) and FFA(1.81, 1.11, 0.77 and 0.70, P<0.05) decreased. The serum malondialdehyde(MDA)(21.36, 15.24, 12.75 and 10.87, P<0.05) level and liver MDA(11.87, 8.27, 6.33 and 4.98, P<0.05) level decreased. The serum and liver superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activity increased(P<0.05), and the effect is related to the intervention dose of corn peptide. The size of the liver became smaller, the liver color gradually changed from light yellow to light red. Corn peptide has a certain preventive effect on NAFLD in rats, and the preventive effect of corn peptide is related to its intervention dose.

Evaluation of fish meal replacement by Clostridium autoethanogenum protein in diets for juvenile red swamp crayfish (Procambarus clarkii)

A study was conducted to investigate the potential use of Clostridium autoethanogenum protein (CAP) replacing fish meal (FM) in the diet of red swamp crayfish (Procambarus clarkia). Crayfish were fed with FM-based diet and diets with graded levels of CAP replacing FM at 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%, respectively. Compared to the FM group, the growth performance and feed utilization of crayfish were not significantly influenced by CAP inclusion. The best weight gain of crayfish was observed in the 25% CAP replacement group. The content of arginine, histidine, tyrosine, cysteine, and hydroxyproline of muscle increased at first and then decreased, showing a quadratic relationship with CAP level. The activity of serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) linearly increased, while alanine aminotransferase (ALT) firstly decreased and then increased with the increase of CAP level. The activity of serum phenoloxidase, gene expression of cyclophilin A (cypa), hemocyanin A chain-like (hemB), and hemocyanin B chain-like (hemB) in hepatopancreas of crayfish were increased in the 25 and 50% CAP replacement group, but were decreased at 100% replacement level. Enteritis was not observed among all the diet groups. The average length of longitudinal ridges was linearly decreased with the increment of CAP level, although it was highest in the 25% CAP replacement group. The overall structure of intestinal microbial community was similar among different experiment conditions, but Shannon and Simpson diversity indexes were quadratically influenced by CAP inclusion. Tyzzerella, Sphingomonas, and Weissella were enriched in the intestine of crayfish fed CAP diets. In conclusion, CAP replacing FM at tested levels did not impact growth performance of crayfish. CAP replacing FM at 25% and 50% improved immune response and muscle amino acid composition but depressed immunity at 100% replacement level. CAP tend to compromise intestinal histology and hepatopancreas health, change the α-diversity and genus composition of intestinal microbiota. It is recommended that CAP replacing 25% FM in a diet containing 10% fish meal could achieve the optimal growth performance, immune response, amino acid composition, and intestinal histology for 6 g crayfish.

Liver Injury and Metabolic Dysregulation in Largemouth Bass (Micropterus salmoides) after Ammonia Exposure.

Elevated environmental ammonia leads to respiratory disorders and metabolic dysfunction in most fish species, and the majority of research has concentrated on fish behavior and gill function. Prior studies have rarely shown the molecular mechanism of the largemouth bass hepatic response to ammonia loading. In this experiment, 120 largemouth bass were exposed to total ammonia nitrogen of 0 mg/L or 13 mg/L for 3 and 7 days, respectively. Histological study indicated that ammonia exposure severely damaged fish liver structure, accompanied by increased serum alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase activity. RT-qPCR results showed that ammonia exposure down-regulated the expression of genes involved in glycogen metabolism, tricarboxylic acid cycle, lipid metabolism, and urea cycle pathways, whereas it up-regulated the expression of genes involved in gluconeogenesis and glutamine synthesis pathways. Thus, ammonia was mainly converted to glutamine in the largemouth bass liver during ammonia stress, which was rarely further used for urea synthesis. Additionally, transcriptome results showed that ammonia exposure also led to the up-regulation of the oxidative phosphorylation pathway and down-regulation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathway in the liver of largemouth bass. It is possible that the energy supply of oxidative phosphorylation in the largemouth bass liver was increased during ammonia exposure, which was mediated by the MAPK signaling pathway.

Hepatoprotective Mechanism of Apigenin via Suppression of Oxidative Inflammatory Signaling and Apoptosis against Hepatotoxicity Induced by CCl4 in Rats

Background: Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) is a critical hepatotoxicant causing liver injury and fibrosis via hepatic production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Apigenin (APG) is a natural bioactive compound and flavonoid antioxidant. We, therefore, evaluated whether APG could mitigate CCl4-mediated hepatotoxicity. Methods: Rats were randomly divided and administered APG and/or CCl4 in Control group, CCl4 group, APG + CCl4 groups (APG: 10 and 20 mg/kg bw) and APG groups (APG: 10 and 20 mg/kg bw) 2 times per week for 7 consecutive weeks. Result: Rats exposed to CCl4 demonstrated marked increases in serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and monoamine oxidase (MAO) activities and decreased hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA) level compared to control. The hepatic activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) decreased appreciably. The CCl4 intoxication caused significant increases in inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and TNF-α) and apoptosis markers, while the anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-4 and IL-10) decreased with evident histopathological lesions compared to control. APG-dose-dependently-prevented these hepatic alterations.

Biochemical parameters of blood in cats with cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism and acute heart failure

Investigating the impact of vascular blockage on blood biochemical parameters, particularly in the context of acute heart failure, is crucial for understanding the underlying mechanisms of arterial thromboembolism in animals. The purpose of the study is to investigate the effect of vascular occlusion on the biochemical parameters of blood in cats with cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism. The study involved 12 cats and formed two groups: the first – animals with acute heart failure and the second – animals with arterial thromboembolism. Anamnesis data were collected for experimental animals, clinical examination, echocardiography, and biochemical examination of blood samples were performed. The activity of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase, the concentration of glucose, creatinine, urea, potassium, calcium, total and inorganic phosphorus were determined spectrophotometrically in blood serum. It was found that in cats with acute heart failure, the average value of serum aspartate aminotransferase activity increased by 2.8 times, and the creatinine concentration by 1.9 times compared to the upper limit of reference values. This indicates functional changes in the myocardium and kidneys in this pathology. In cats affected by arterial thromboembolism, the blood serum shows a significant elevation in various biochemical parameters compared to the upper limit of the corresponding reference intervals. Specifically, there is a 4.4-fold increase in alanine aminotransferase activity, a 4.3-fold increase in aspartate aminotransferase activity, a 1.4- fold increase in glucose concentration, a 1.8-fold increase in creatinine levels, a 2.0-fold increase in urea levels, and a 1.3-fold increase in inorganic phosphorus levels. The changes in biochemical parameters for feline thromboembolism may be a consequence of functional renal failure, ischemia, and muscle necrosis. Moreover, it was established that in most cats with acute heart failure, the urinary system is primarily affected, and with arterial thromboembolism, changes in muscle tissue also occur. The results obtained are of practical value for veterinary doctors when choosing a therapeutic strategy and prescribing additional diagnostic examinations

Precise application of Beichaihu and Nanchaihu in classical formulas

To maintain the precision and stability of the efficacy of classical formulas, this study compared the origins and specifications of Bupleuri Radix and revealed the precise application regularity of Bupleurum chinense(Beichaihu) and Bupleurum scorzonerifolium(Nanchaihu) in classical formulas. The efficacy and indications of formulas with Bupleuri Radix as the sovereign drug in the Treatise on Cold Damage and Miscellaneous Diseases(Shang Han Za Bing Lun) were investigated. The difference in the efficacy of Bupleuri Radix as well as the differences in the chemical composition, and liver-protecting and lipid-lowering effects of the decoctions of Beichaihu and Nanchaihu were analyzed with LC-MS technology based on the CCl_4-induced liver injury model in mice and sodium oleate-induced HepG2 hyperlipidemia cell model. The results showed that seven classical formulas with Bupleuri Radix as the sovereign drug in the Treatise on Cold Damage and Miscellaneous Diseases were mainly used in the treatment of digestive, metabolic, immune, circulatory, and other diseases. Bupleuri Radix mainly played the functions of protecting the liver, benefiting the gallbladder, and lowering the lipid, and had different focuses in different formulas. There were 14 differential components in the decoctions of Beichaihu and Nanchaihu, and the chemical structures of 11 components were identified, including 10 saponins and one flavonoid. The results of the liver-protecting efficacy experiment showed that compared with the Nanchaihu decoction, Beichaihu decoction could reduce the serum aspartate aminotransferase(AST) activity in liver injury model mice(P<0.01). The results of the lipid-lowering efficacy experiment proved that Beichaihu and Nanchaihu decoctions both showed highly significant differences in lowering the total cholesterol(TC) and triglyceride(TG) content in HepG2 cells(P<0.01), and Nanchaihu decoction was superior to Beichaihu decoction in lowering the lipid. The results of this study preliminarily proved that there were differences in chemical composition, and liver-protecting and lipid-lowering effects of Beichaihu and Nanchaihu decoctions, indicating that it was necessary to determine the precise origin of Bupleuri Radix in the clinical formulation of traditional Chinese medicine. The study provides a scientific basis for both precise clinical medication and purpose-based accurate quality evaluation of traditional Chinese medicine in clinical application.

Association between biochemical parameters and ultrasonographic measurement for the assessment of hepatic lipidosis in dairy cows

Hepatic lipidosis (HL) is a serious metabolic disorder that affects transient high-producing dairy cows. However, there are many laboratory methods could help in the assessment of HL in dairy cows, the definite diagnosis of the disease under field conditions remains a challenge because of the non-specificity of clinical parameters. The aim of the study was to investigate the utility of serum biomarkers, and ultrasonography (US) measurement to diagnose HL in dairy cows. Forty Holstein dairy cows underwent physical examination and were divided into three groups: non-HL, mild HL, and severe HL groups based on US findings, and the concentrations of beta-hydroxybutyric acid (BHBA) and nonesterified fatty acids (NEFAs). Ultrasound images showed hyperechoic lesions and increased pixel intensity (PI) values of liver echotexture in the HL groups. A significant increase was observed in mild and severe HL groups in the activity of serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), BHBA, NEFAs, malondialdehyde (MDA), and nitric oxide (NO) while the concentrations of triglyceride (TG), glutathione (GSH), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were significantly decreased. The classification accuracy was in the interest of NEFAs (cut off 0.62 mmol/L, sensitivity 82.6%, specificity 91.7%, and an AUC of 0.913) and BHBA (cut off 1.35 mmol/L, sensitivity 91.31%, specificity of 86.4%, and an AUC 0.812) as important diagnostic parameters. This study offers new insights into the importance of serum biochemical parameters and oxidative stress biomarkers especially, AST, NEFAs, BHBA, and GSH with the digital values of US images for prompt use of minimally invasive techniques to diagnose HL under farm conditions. HIGHLIGHTS Serum metabolites and oxidative stress indices could diagnose hepatic lipidosis in dairy cows NEFA and BHBA concentrations and ultrasound digital values can use as a non-invasive way to the classification of hepatic lipidosis degrees in cows under farm condition.

Dietary leucine requirement of fingerling Channa punctatus (Bloch) based on growth, feed conversion and leucine retention efficiency, hematological parameters, antioxidant and intestinal enzyme activities.

To find out the dietary leucine requirement of fingerling Channa punctatus (5.24 ± 0.07g), six purified experimental diets (45% CP and 14.73kJ/g DE) with various leucine concentrations (0.5, 1.0,1.5, 2.0, 2.5 and 3.0% diet) were fed to apparent satiation to triplicate groups for 12weeks (714/02/a/CPCSEA). Absolute weight gain, specific growth rate, feed conversion ratio, protein efficiency ratio, protein and leucine retention efficiency, and RNA/DNA ratio improved up to 2.0% leucine in the diet. Carcass protein and fat increased significantly with increasing leucine levels up to a 2.0% dry diet. Moisture content showed a reverse pattern. Red blood corpuscles hemoglobin and hematocrit increased with incremental levels of leucine up to 2.0% diet. Significant changes were also noted in serum total protein, superoxide dismutase, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and lysozyme activity. Serum protein, superoxide dismutase and lysozyme activity were positively correlated with increasing leucine levels up to 2.0% diet, whereas aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase showed the opposite trend. Based on the quadratic regression analysis of absolute weight gain, specific growth rate, feed conversion ratio, protein, and leucine retention efficiency, inclusion of 2.0% leucine is recommended for optimum growth of fingerling C. punctatus.

The Impact of Chitosan on Oxidative Stress in Liver of Rats Loaded With Lead Acetate

This study was conducted to determine the impact of chitosan on lead (Pb)-induced hepatotoxicity. Thus, lead acetate was administered intraperitoneally (50 mg/kg for 5 days) and chitosan was given as 200 mg/kg via oral gavage for 28 days. When the trial was terminated, it was determined that aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activities in serum as well as Pb, 8-hydroxy-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and catalase (CAT) activity in liver tissue significantly increased, however reduced glutathione (GSH) and ceruloplasmin (Cp) levels in liver and high density lipoproteins (HDL) in serum had a significant decrease in the Pb group when compared to the control group. The administration of chitosan significantly prevented Pb-induced changes in serum liver enzyme activities, 8-OHdG and MDA levels. In addition, chitosan showed a statistically insignificant effect on reduced GSH, Cp, HDL levels and CAT activity. Accordingly, administration of chitosan can strengthen the antioxidant defence system of liver tissue and may decrease oxidative stress.

Effects of essential oil of Magnolia denudata on spotted seabass (Lateolabrax maculatus) during simulated live transportation

The essential oil of Magnolia denudate (MDO) is an effective anesthetic and sedative on spotted seabass (Lateolabrax maculatus). To improve animal welfare and transportation effectiveness, this study evaluated the effects of MDO on water quality, blood biochemical, and tissue damage after the transportation of L. maculatus (164.16 ± 15.40 g). A base group (no MDO and no transport) and 0 (control group), 10, and 20 mg/L MDO during simulated transportation treatments of 5 h were involved. Every treatment has four replicates with four fish transported in a plastic box (34 × 22.5 × 19 cm) with 5 L water at a fish density of 130 g/L and a shake rate of 60 rpm. At the end of the transportation simulation, no mortality was observed. Fish were immediately sampled for blood collection, liver and brain removal. Compared to the control group, the MDO groups showed significantly lower ammonia in water, lower cortisol level and lactic dehydrogenase activity, higher glucose, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase activities in fish serum (p < 0.05). Superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) activity, glutathione (GSH) concentration decline, and malondialdehyde (MDA) were alleviated in the fish brain when MDO was added to the water. However, SOD and GSH further decreased, but MDA increased in the fish liver in the MDO groups (p < 0.05). These results revealed that the administration of MDO on L. maculatus transportation could alleviate stress and decrease energy metabolism. Due to the 20 mg/L MDO may trigger more serve liver function decline, we suggest 10 mg/L MDO addition in L. maculatus transportation.

Sugarcane yeast with urea in replace of soybean meal in the diet of Murrah buffaloes does not cause metabolic, endocrine, and mineral disorders.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the replacement of soybean meal by increasing levels of sugarcane yeast and urea on the energy, enzymatic, protein, mineral, and hormonal profiles of buffalo heifers. Twenty Murrah heifers with an average body weight of 168 ± 2.0kg and 1year old were used in a completely randomized design. The treatments consisted of the replacement of soybean meal by increasing levels of sugarcane yeast and urea (0, 33, 67, and 100% dry matter). The animals were weighed at the beginning and end of the experimental period, and blood was collected on the final day. The replacement of soybean meal with sugarcane yeast influenced the performance and metabolic dynamics, with total weight gain (P = 0.005) and average daily gain (P = 0.015), presenting, for both variables, a quadratic effect. Considering the biochemical profile, there was an influence on the serum concentration of triglycerides (P = 0.055), the serum activities of aspartate aminotransferase, gamma-glutamyl transferase, and alkaline phosphatase (P < 0.05), in addition to the serum concentration of phosphorus (P = 0.007) and potassium (P = 0.053), which showed positive linear effects. The hormonal profile was not influenced by diets (P > 0.05). The elements copper, iron, and zinc were able to be quantified at all levels of sugarcane yeast and urea in the diets offered. The use of sugarcane yeast with urea promotes adequate metabolic response of buffalo heifers and can replace up to 100% of soybean meal in the concentrate.

Effects of dietary resveratrol supplementation on digestive enzymes activities and serum biochemistry of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss).

The effects of resveratrol as an anti-oxidant in improving growth and health have been shown in several experiments. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different dietary resveratrol inclusion levels on digestive enzymes activity and serum biochemistry of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Accordingly, 225 juvenile rainbow trout with an average body weight of 10.00 ± 1.50 g were stocked in nine experimental units. The study was performed as a completely randomized design including three dietary levels of resveratrol as follows: 0.00, 400 and 800 mg kg-1 feed. During the experiment, fish were fed based on their respective body weight using standard feeding tables at three feeding times for 8 weeks. Nine fish were randomly selected from each treatment at the end of the 4th and 8th weeks of the experiment. Results revealed that supplementing 800 mg kg-1 feed resveratrol significantly increased lipase activity (31.40 ± 0.32 U mg-1 protein) compared to the control group (29.92 ± 0.52 U mg-1 protein) at the end of week eight. Also, at the same time, it increased serum high-density lipoprotein (123.04 ± 1.57 mg dL-1) compared to the control group (97.055 ± 1.463 mg dL-1). In addition, dietary supplementation of 800 mg kg-1 feed resveratrol effectively reduced serum alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase and aspartate aminotransferase activities along with glucose, cortisol and cholesterol. In conclusion, resveratrol can be used as a suitable food supplement to improve fish health by increasing digestive enzymes activities.

Potential Curative Effects of Aqueous Extracts of Cissus quadrangularis (Vitaceae) and Jatropha gossypiifolia (Euphorbiaceae) on Acetaminophen-Induced Liver Injury in Mice

Acetaminophen-induced liver injury remains a significant public health problem because available treatments are limited due to their adverse effects. Medicinal plants, which are an important source of bioactive molecules, could be an alternative treatment for liver disease. This study was designed to investigate the curative effect of aqueous extracts of Cissus quadrangularis (Vitaceae) and Jatropha gossypiifolia (Euphorbiaceae) on acetaminophen-induced liver injury in mice. Mice were divided into groups and treated with distilled water, silymarin (50 mg/kg), a reference hepatoprotective agent, and aqueous extracts of C quadrangularis and J gossypiifolia (50 and 100 mg/kg, PO, respectively). These substances were given as a single daily dose 4 hours after acetaminophen administration (300 mg/kg, PO) for 2 days. Mice were humanely put to death 24 hours after the last dose and serum alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase activities, total bilirubin and protein levels, reduced glutathione, superoxide dismutase, malondialdehyde, catalase, and nitrite tissue levels were assessed. Histology of the livers of the mice was performed by hematoxylin and eosin staining. Acetaminophen administration induced a significant (P < 0.05) mean (SEM) body weight loss (-14.45% [5.92%]), a significant elevation of alanine aminotransferase activity (15.08%), total protein and bilirubin levels (25.80%), and a significant (P < 0.05) increase in liver superoxide dismutase (67.71%), catalase (63.00%), glutathione (40.29%), malondialdehyde (30.67%), and nitrite levels compared with the control group. In curative treatment, C quadrangularis and J gossypiifolia (50 and 100 mg/kg) significantly (P < 0.05) reduced mean (SEM) body weight loss (16.67% [7.16%] and 1.25% [0.51%], respectively), serum alanine aminotransferase activity (17.62% and 11.14%, respectively), bilirubin level (29.62% and 49.14%, respectively) compared with acetaminophen group, and J gossypiifolia normalized serum total protein level. Both extracts significantly (P < 0.05) reduced the levels of glutathione and malondialdehyde and normalized that of nitrite, superoxide dismutase, and catalase compared with the acetaminophen group. Hepatocyte necrosis and inflammatory cell infiltration were remarkably reduced by the plant extracts. The results obtained are evidence in favor of the development of a formulation based on the extracts of these plants against liver diseases.