Toxicity In Wistar Rats Research Articles

Histological and Biochemical Effects of Lutein on Paraquat-induced Renal Toxicity in Wistar Rats

Introduction: Paraquat (PQ) poisoning in humans predominantly results from the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). To date, no proven antidote exists for PQ poisoning, which is characterized by severe kidney injury and high mortality rates globally. However, free radical scavengers and antioxidant agents have shown potentials to mitigate PQ toxicity. Aim: The study is aimed at investigating lutein, an antioxidant, for possible mitigation of paraquat-induced renal toxicity. Study Design: Preclinical experimental study. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Anatomy, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Nigeria, between 2022 and 2023. Methods: Forty wistar rats weighing 150-180 grammes were randomly grouped (A to E) for this study. Paraquat (PQ) toxicity was induced in groups B to E. Lutein was administered at graded doses of 50 mg/kg, 100 mg/kg and 150 mg/kg to groups C to E for twenty-one days respectively. Group A (positive control) was given only normal saline, while group B had paraquat only. Twenty-four hours after the last administration, urine and blood samples were collected and the animals were sacrificed before the excision of the kidneys. Results: A marked histological distortion, which was characterized by compromised Bowman's space and renal tubule dimensions, was observed in Group B. In contrast, the lutein-treated groups exhibited dose-dependent improvements, with outcomes comparable to the control group. Notably, Group B showed significant elevations in plasma creatinine (P = 0.003) and urine protein (P = 0.001), accompanied by reduced plasma protein (P = 0.004), relative to the treated groups. However, Group E, which received the highest lutein dose, demonstrated substantial improvement in histoarchitectural and biochemical findings similar to the control group." Conclusion: This study demonstrated significant alterations in the histoarchitecture and biochemical profiles of renal tissue following paraquat exposure. Notably, the lutein-treated groups exhibited substantial improvement, with results comparable to the control group. These findings suggest that lutein may possess potential therapeutic properties to mitigate paraquat-induced renal toxicity.

Effects of Lutein on the Body Weights, Hepato-renal DNA and Antioxidant Capacity Following Paraquat-induced Toxicity in Wistar Rats

Introduction: Paraquat is a leading cause of herbicide-related fatalities worldwide. Its high mortality rate is attributed to its inherent generation of ROS-mediated toxicity, and lack of effective treatment till date. Lutein is an antioxidant with free radical scavenging ability, which may contribute to its protective effects and possible DNA preservation. Objective: The study is evaluating the effects of lutein on body weights and hepato-renal antioxidant capacity with DNA quantification following paraquat toxicity in wistar rats. Methods: Thirty-five male Wistar rats (150-180g) rats were randomly divided into five equal groups (A-E). Paraquat toxicity was induced in Groups B-E with 5mg/kg for three days. Group A received normal saline only, while Group B was given paraquat only. Thereafter, Groups C-E received varying doses of lutein (50, 100, 150mg/kg) for 21 days. Their body weights were recorded twice weekly using a digital balance. The animals were sacrificed and their liver with kidneys were excised and processed. The photomicrographs were taken at various magnifications while Image J software was employed for DNA densities. The total antioxidant capacity (TAC) was assessed by Prieto method. Results: There was significant reductions in the body weights, (p=0.00) hepato-renal DNA densities (p=0.00, p=0.01) and antioxidant capacities of the PQ-only group relative to the positive control A in both liver and kidneys (p-0.01, p=0.02). However, the lutein-treated groups had dose-dependent similar features with the control, which had normal histo-morphological feature. The highest dose of lutein showed the best correlation with the control. Conclusion: This study showed significant alterations in body weights, hepato-renal DNA densities and antioxidant capacities especially in the PQ-only group. Meanwhile, the lutein-treated groups, especially at high dosages, showed significant improvements in the indices similar to the control. Hence, lutein may be a useful agent for attenuating paraquat toxicity.

Antimutagenic and anticoagulant therapeutic effects of Ag/Ag2O nanoparticles from Olea europaea leaf extract: mitigating metribuzin-induced hepato-and nephrotoxicity.

Silver nanoparticles (Ag/Ag₂O NPs) have garnered attention for their potent antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties, showing promise for therapeutic applications, particularly in mitigating chemical-induced toxicity. This study aimed to synthesize Ag/Ag₂O NPs using Olea europaea (olive) leaf extract as a green, eco-friendly reducing agent and evaluate their protective effects against metribuzin-induced toxicity in Wistar rats, focusing on oxidative stress, hematological parameters, and lipid profiles, with specific dose optimization. Ag/Ag₂O NPs were synthesized using Olea europaea leaf extract, and their properties were confirmed via XRD, FTIR, SEM, EDS, and UV-visible spectroscopy. Wistar rats exposed to metribuzin (110mg/kg/day) were treated with two doses of Ag/Ag₂O NPs (0.062mg/kg and 0.125mg/kg). Hematological and biochemical markers were assessed to evaluate the NPs' protective effects. Physicochemical characterization confirmed the successful formation of Ag/Ag₂O NPs loaded with phytochemicals, exhibiting crystallite sizes of 23nm and 19nm, a particle size of 25nm, and significant peaks in XRD, FTIR, and UV-Vis spectra indicating the formation of Ag/Ag₂O. Metribuzin exposure led to significant hematological disruptions (elevated WBC, reduced RBC and hemoglobin) and worsened lipid profiles (increased cholesterol, LDL, and triglycerides). The lower NP dose (0.062mg/kg) improved WBC, RBC, hemoglobin, and platelet counts, normalized lipid levels, and positively influenced biochemical markers such as serum creatinine and uric acid. In contrast, the higher NP dose (0.125mg/kg) showed mixed results, with some improvements but an increase in triglycerides and continued elevation of ASAT and ALAT enzyme levels. Ag/Ag₂O NPs synthesized via green methods using olive leaf extract effectively mitigated metribuzin-induced toxicity, especially at lower doses, by improving oxidative stress markers and hematological and biochemical profiles. Dose optimization is crucial to maximize therapeutic benefits and minimize adverse effects, underscoring their potential in treating chemical-induced toxicity.

Effects of Gingko Biloba Extract and L-Ascorbic Acid on Some Hematological, Biochemical, and Hepatic-Architectural Alterations in Mercury Chloride Intoxicated Adult Wistar Rat.

The study investigated the effects of Ginkgo biloba and Ascorbic acid (A.A) on mercury chloride (HgCl2) toxicity in Wistar rats. Forty-two adult Wistar rats were randomly divided into seven groups (n=6). Group I served as control. Groups II–VII received 5 mg/kg of HgCl2. Groups III and IV received 100 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg of A.A respectively, while groups V and VI daily received 100 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg of EGB761 respectively. Group VII received 100 mg/kg of A.A and EGB761. All administration were done orally, once daily for 21 days. Mercury exposure caused significant (p<0.05) decreases in RBC (3.62.00±0.75), hemoglobin (8.67±0.14), and PCV (32.93±0.47) in group II when compared to the control group, while significantly (p<0.05) increasing white blood cell count (18.57±1.51). Liver function tests significantly (p<0.05) increased Alanine transaminase (1.38±1.51), Aspartate Transaminase (10.11±4.21), and Alkaline Phosphatase (1.89±0.51) in group II when compared to Control. Biochemical analysis revealed a significant (p<0.05) increase in malondialdehyde levels and a significant (P<0.05) decrease in superoxide dismutase (3.86 ± 0.69), glutathione (10.08 ± 2.13), and catalase (3.65 ± 0.2) levels in group II. However, treatment with ascorbic acid and EGB761 significantly (P<0.05) increased in Groups IV (6.15 ± 0.38); VI (6.28 ± 0.40), and VII (6.19 ± 0.41), SOD levels in Groups IV (6.15 ± 0.38); VI (6.28 ± 0.40) and VII (6.19 ± 0.41) and GSH level when compared to the HgCl2 group. Histological examination showed moderate hepatocyte necrosis in group II, while treatment with EGB761 and A.A showed moderate healing, binucleate nuclei, and a slight decrease of distorted sinusoids and normalization of liver structure. The study concludes that EGB761 and A.A have hepatoprotective effects on mercury-induced hepatotoxicity in a dose-dependent manner. The findings suggest that these antioxidants may be useful in mitigating the harmful effects of mercury exposure on the liver.

Vernonia amygdalina, Ocimum gratissimum and Talinum triangulare Mitigates Kidney Toxicity in Male Wistar Rats Administered with Dichlorvos

This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic potentials of extracts from medicinal plants (Vernonia amygdalina, Ocimumgratissimum, Talinum triangulare) against DDVP-induced renal toxicity in Wistar rats. A total of 50 male adult rats, each weighing approximately 272g, were divided into ten groups (n=5). The groups were given normal saline (normal control), 8.0mg/kg body weight DDVP (positive control), 8.0mg/kg body weight DDVP along with 200mg/kg and 400mg/kg body weight of the plant extracts respectively, and 20mg/kg and 40mg/kg body weight of vitamin C for 28 days. DDVP significantly (P<0.05) increased urea, creatinine, Na+, K+, Cl-, and significantly (P<0.05) decreased HCO3- compared to the normal control. Treatment with the aqueous leaf extracts of Vernonia amygdalina, Ocimumgratissimum, and Talinum triangulare significantly corrected these biochemical imbalances when contrasted with the positive control. Histology of the kidney tissues supported these findings. In conclusion, the aqueous leaf extracts of Vernonia amygdalina, Ocimumgratissimum, and Talinum triangulare may have therapeutic potential against DDVP-induced renal toxicity in rats.

Protective impact of Betanin against noise and scrotal hyperthermia on testicular toxicity in Wistar rat: Role of apoptosis, oxidative stress and inflammation

The heat exposure and white noise can induce damage on reproductive organs. The main objective of this study is to observe, if betanin administration could ameliorate oxidative stress, apoptosis and inflammation in testis of rodents following noise and scrotal hyperthermia exposure. Wistar rats were divided into 6 groups; control, betanin, noise, hyperthermia and two treatment groups. Scrotal hyperthermia model was performed by heat exposure of rat testicular (43 °C) for 15 min and 3 times per weeks for 14 days. Noise induction model was done following exposure of rats with 100-dB noise level for 14 days and 8 h daily similar to real exposure condition in human. Betanin was administrated at the sub-effective dose (15 mg/kg) by gavage route for 4 weeks (5 times a week) to male rats. The animals were euthanized and testis were dissected and stored at −80 °C. Then, the oxidative stress biomarkers (MDA and GSH), apoptosis (cytochrome c & Annexin V), and inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α & IL-6) were measured by the real time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) of testis collected samples. The data output demonstrates the impact of noise and hyperthermia in testicular toxicity induction by mitigating oxidative damage, apoptosis and inflammatory mediators. Following treatment with 15 mg/kg per day of betanin, lipid peroxidation and GSH content have been modulated, and TNF-α and IL-6 gene expression has been declined. Our results revealed that in Wistar rats, betanin displays protective effects against noise and scrotal hyperthermia-induced acute testicular toxicity through the inhibition of oxidative stress, apoptosis, and inflammation.

Co-encapsulation of probiotic bacteria L. rhamnosus GG and β-carotene by a novel biphasic encapsulation technique: Stability and in vivo anti-inflammatory properties

In this study, β-carotene (βC) was encapsulated in liposomes and spray-dried with the probiotic bacteria Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG), to obtain a biphasic structure with two functional components. Initially, the liposomes loaded with βC resulted in large multivesicular vesicles (LMVV) with spherical morphology, mean size of 1191 nm and entrapment efficiency of 81.33%. Then, the spray-drying of the mixture βC-LMVV with the LGG resulted in biphasic dried microparticles (BDM) with a spherical shape, retention of 64,48% of βC, and LGG survivor above 90%. The BDM showed high storage stability for 90 days at room temperature and, at the dose of 2000 mg/kg of BDM did not cause any acute toxicity in Wistar rats. In addition, at the same dose, presented significant anti-inflammatory activity in carrageenan-induced paw edema and pleurisy. Thus, the produced BDM could be an innovative ingredient with functional properties and also an efficient encapsulation strategy for βC.

A comparison of the potential of melatonin and tryptophan to ameliorate CCl4-induced hepatic and renal toxicity in Wistar rats

CCl4 causes oxidative injury, fatty degeneration, fibrosis of the liver, renal failure, and even hepatocellular and renal carcinoma. Certain substances have the potential to neutralize the harmful effects of CCl4, so it will lead to numerous beneficial effects. Melatonin (MEL) is a powerful antioxidant that regulates circadian rhythm and has beneficial effects on organism; tryptophan (TRP) is its precursor necessary for the synthesis of MEL. The aim of the current study was to determine whether MEL and TRP, have protective effects during subchronic application of CCl4 to the liver and kidneys. Results suggest that CCl4 led to decrease of total proteins, albumins, globulins, erythrocytes, hemoglobin, and hematocrit; and increase of creatinine, AST, ALT values, and leukocytes. MEL and TRP both showing protective effects on regulation of serum proteins, albumins, globulins, A/G, AST, ALT, and creatinine levels. TRP had been shown to have potential in regulation of disbalanced hematological parameters caused by CCl4. TRP had beneficial effects on hepatocyte morphology in term of beaded chromatin and preserved cell morphology. Overall, oral supplementation of TRP had better protective effects on liver/kidneys compared to MEL.

Bryophyllum pinnatum methanolic extract and flavonoid-rich fraction regulate antioxidant/neurotransmitter levels in MSG-induced rat neurotoxicity

Introduction: Bryophyllum pinnatum (B. pinnatum/BP), a medicinal plant known for its diverse pharmacological properties, has been traditionally used for treating various ailments. This study investigated its potential therapeutic effects against MSG-induced oxidative stress and neurotoxicity in Wistar rats, employing both in vivo and in-silico approaches. Methods: Forty-eight adult Wistar rats (n=48) were divided into six groups: control group, MSG group, and treatment groups receiving BP extract and B.pinnatum flavonoid-rich fractions. Biochemical markers such as LDH, MDA, CAT, GST, and AChE were assessed. Neurotransmitter levels of glutamate and GABA were also measured. Molecular docking and MM GBSA analyses were conducted using Maestro 12.8v to evaluate the binding affinities of 10 B.pinnatum compounds with Nrf2 protein, NMDA receptor, and acetylcholinesterase. ADMET profiling was performed using SwissADME and ADMETlab 3.0. Results: MSG increased LDH and MDA levels significantly, while decreasing CAT, GST, and AChE levels, indicating oxidative stress and neurotoxicity. Treatment with B.pinnatum extracts and fractions mitigated these effects, restoring antioxidant enzymes/neurotransmitter levels and reducing lipid peroxidation. In silico studies showed B.pinnatum compounds exhibiting substantial binding affinities for Nrf2, NMDA receptor and acetylcholinesterase, correlating with their neuroprotective effects observed in vivo. ADMET profiling confirmed the drug-like properties of these compounds. Conclusions: B. pinnatum methanolic extract and its flavonoid-rich fraction demonstrated significant antioxidant and neuroprotective effects against MSG-induced toxicity in Wistar rats. There was significant difference in the activity levels of the flavonoid fractions as compared to the crude extract in LDH and AChE, however, the difference was only relative in MDA, CAT and GST.

Fennel Seed Oil's Protective effect on Serum Potassium and Sodium Ions from Formaldehyde-Induced Toxicity in Wistar Rats

Fennel Seed Oil's Protective effect on Serum Potassium and Sodium Ions from Formaldehyde-Induced Toxicity in Wistar Rats

Fmrfamide Mitigated MDMA (3, 4- Methylenedioxymethamphetamine)/Tramadol-Induced Testicular Toxicity in Wistar Rat

Fmrfamide Mitigated MDMA (3, 4- Methylenedioxymethamphetamine)/Tramadol-Induced Testicular Toxicity in Wistar Rat

Ameliorative action of eugenol on nitrate induced reproductive toxicity in male rats

There is a great concern for studies to prevent nitrate (NO3) induced male reproductive toxicity as it might lead to infertility. Therefore, the study was aimed to investigate the ameliorative effects of eugenol on NO3 induced male reproductive toxicity in wistar rats. Adult male rats were randomly divided into five groups (n=5). The first group was served as control, the second and third group of rats were treated with 100 mg/kg bw of sodium nitrate (NaNO3) and NO3 contaminated ground water respectively. The fourth and fifth group of rats were orally intubated with eugenol (100 mg/kg bw) and then exposed to NaNO3 and NO3 contaminated ground water respectively. The treatment was continued for 52 days. Nitrate exposure significantly decreased the sperm motility, testicular 3-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activity, serum concentration of testosterone, activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase in testis and spermatozoa and different categories of germ cells in stage VII of spermatogenesis. Further, there was significant increase in sperm abnormality and levels of nitrite (NO2) and malondialdehyde in testis and spermatozoa of NO3 treated rats. In addition, NO3 exposure distorted the histological architecture of seminiferous tubules of testis. It was established that NO3 induced high production of NO2 affected spermatogenesis, steroidogenesis and sperm motility. However, in the present study, pretreatment of eugenol prevented NO3 induced reproductive alterations by decreasing the level of NO2. These findings clearly showed the protective action of eugenol against NO3 induced oxidative stress in male reproductive system.

Protective Effects of Tigernut (Cyperus esculentus) on Bisphenol A- Induced Testicular Toxicity in Wistar Rats

Bisphenol A (BPA) have been reported to induced reprotoxicity in rats. This study was conducted to find out the ameliorative properties of aqueous extract of Cyperus esculentus (tigernut) on BPA induced testicular toxicity in Wistar rats. Methods: Twenty male rats were divided randomly into 4 groups (n=5): group A: (Control); group B: Bisphenol A (BPA) (25 mg/kg b.w/day); group C: tigernut (200 mg/kg b.w); group D: (25 mg/kg of BPA+ 200 mg/kg of tigernut extract. 25 mg/kg of BPA was dissolved in 0.2 ml of olive oil as vehicle and administration was given by oral gavage for 4 weeks. The body weights were measured. Blood were collected for the testosterone (T) and luteinizing hormone (LH) assays; the epididymis were processed for sperm count, sperm motility, sperm viability and sperm abnormality test; while the testes were harvested for histology. Results: There was a significantly (p < 0.05) decreased in body weight; reduced (sperm count, motility, viability, serum testosterone and luteinizing hormone) in BPA compared with control group. These parameters however increased significantly (p < 0.05) in tigernut (200mg) and BPA + tigernut (200mg) compared with BPA. Also, histological examination showed widened interstitial spaces, some distorted seminiferous tubules, degeneration of basement membrane, scanty Leydig cells, fewer spermatozoa and vacuolation While BPA + tigernut (group D); showed improved testicular architecture (preserved interstitial spaces and interstitial cells. restoration of the loss of the basement membrane and closely packed seminiferous tubules with well-arranged germinal epithelium. Supplementation with tigernuts following BPA administration produces a reversal of the deleterious effect of BPA on the testis.

Effects of phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitor (viagra) on biochemical parameters of l-name-induced testicular toxicity in adult male wistar rats

Testicular toxicity is a growing concern in today's world, with various factors contributing to its prevalence. Nitric oxide (NO) imbalance, often induced by N (gamma)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME), is a significant factor associated with testicular dysfunction. Sildenafil (Viagra), a phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor, has shown promise in improving testicular function by modulating NO levels. This study aimed to investigate the role of Sildenafil (Viagra) on biochemical parameters of L-NAME-induced testicular toxicity in Wistar rats. Twenty-four adult male Wistar rats were divided into four groups: Control (physiological saline-treated), L-Name (L-Name-induced testicular toxicity), PDE (Sildenafil-treated), and L-Name + Sildenafil (co-treatment) and subjected to a 56-day treatment regimen. At the end of the administration, the animals were sacrificed, tissues collected and biochemical and histological assessments were performed. Findings revealed that L-Name administration led to a significant decreased in nitric oxide levels, follicle stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, testosterone and increase in oxidative stress when compared to the control group. Furthermore, histological analysis demonstrated structural alterations in the testes of L-NAME-treated rats, indicative of testicular toxicity. Rats treated with Sildenafil showed a slight reversal of these adverse effects. Also, slight reversals of impaired spermatogenesis were evident in the co-treatment group. This study provides compelling evidence for the potential therapeutic role of sildenafil in ameliorating L-NAME-induced testicular toxicity in adult male Wistar rats.

Evaluation of the protective activity of aqueous leaf extract of <i>Cissus populnea</i> against lead-induced testicular toxicity in Wistar rats.

Cissus populnea, a plant native to West Tropical Africa, has garnered attention, particularly for its use in traditional medicine to improve genital erection in males. Accordingly, this study investigated the possible protective effects of aqueous leaf extract of Cissus populnea (ACPE) against lead acetate-induced testicular toxicity in Wistar rats. Twenty adult Wistar rats were divided into four groups and administered various treatments, including 50mg/kg body weight (BW) of lead acetate, 1000 mg/kg BW of ACPE, or a combination of both, for 28 days via an orogastric tube. Thereafter, animals were sacrificed and various parameters, including body weight changes, sperm quality, and histology of testes were evaluated. Lead acetate exposure led to significant (P<0.05) weight loss, reduction in sperm count and motility as well as histological alterations of the testes. However, ACPE treatment significantly (P<0.05) mitigated the adverse effects induced by lead in the testes of exposed rats. Taken together, these findings underscore the potential of Cissus populnea as a possible protective agent against lead-induced testicular toxicity, thus offering important insights for future treatment options derived from natural sources.

Subacute Use of Aqueous Extract of Water Melon (Citrullus lanatus) Seeds Mitigates against Pyramidal Neuronal Toxicity of Lead Acetate in Adult Wistar Rats

Introduction: Lead exposure remains a significant public health burden across the globe, impacting millions of individuals and posing a major threat to nervous system development and function As a reported bio-toxic environmental and industrial pollutant, Lead (Pb) do accumulates in almost all body tissues to cause health complications with the cerebellar region of the central nervous system reported to be more susceptible to cellular distortions. As a flowering plant species of the Cucurbitaceae family, watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) is associated with numerous medicinal properties. Aim: This study aim to investigate the possible neuroprotective potential of aqueous extract of citrulus lanatus seed on lead acetates-induced neurotoxicity in the Cerebral cortex of adult Wistar rats. Place of Study: Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ogun State, Nigeria. Methods: Twenty (20) healthy adult female wistar rats weighing 150±50g were randomly assigned into 4 groups (n=5). The Control group received 2mls/kg of distilled water, Treatment group (T1) was administered 7.5 mg/kg of lead acetate, Treatment group (T2) was administered 200 mg/kg of aqueous extract of citrullus lanatus and Treatment group (T3) was administered 7.5 mg/kg of lead acetate and 200 mg/kg of aqueous extract of citrullus lanatus concomitantly orally for fourteen (14) days. H&E and Cresyl violet histological stains and Biochemical assays for SOD, CAT activities and MDA concentration was determined. Data obtained from the study were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and subjected to Turkeys post hoc test from the multiple comparison. Results: Revealed no statistically significant differences (p>0.05) in body weight and brain weight changes across groups relatives to the control group while SOD and Catalase activities were increased significantly in the Treatment groups compared to control group. Histological findings in control group and T2 showed normal histoarchitectural appearance of cerebral cortex Pyramidal neurons while the lead exposed group (T1) revealed features of neurodegenerative changes evident by nuclear shrinkage with pyknosis and karryorrhexis. while T3 revealed near normal presentations. Conclusion: In summary, Citrullus lanatus mitigates against pyramidal neuronal cells distortions following lead acetate induced toxicity in Wistar Rats and also further affirms its antioxidative potential.

Biochemical, morphological and molecular assessments of n butanol fraction of Phoenix dactylifera L. following exposure to inorganic mercury on the liver of Wistar rats

BackgroundMercury chloride (HgCl2) damages tissues it comes in contact with in sufficient concentration. This study evaluated the protective effects of n-butanol fraction of Phoenix dactylifera (BFPD) on mercury-triggered liver toxicity in Wistar rats. 25 male rats were divided into 5 groups of 5 rats each. Group I was administered 2 ml/kg of distilled water; group II was administered 5 mg/kg of HgCl2; group III was administered 500 mg/kg of BFPD + 5 mg/kg of HgCl2; group IV was administered 1000 mg/kg of BFPD + 5 mg/kg of HgCl2, while group V was administered 100 mg/kg of silymarin + 5 mg/kg of HgCl2. orally for 2 weeks. The rats were euthanized and liver tissue blood samples were collected for histological, histochemical, stereological, immunohistochemical, molecular, and biochemical studies.ResultsThe results revealed that HgCl2 induced oxidative stress in the rats evident by histoarchitectural distortions and altered levels of liver enzymes, proteins, and oxidative stress biomarkers when compared to the control. However, BFPD treatment restored these changes. Glutathione peroxidase levels decreased (p < 0.05) in the HgCl2−treated group when compared to the control and BFPD-treated groups. HgCl2 group revealed reduced reactivity with histochemical and immunohistochemical stains (Masson’s Trichrome and B cell Lymphoma 2) when compared to the control, with a significant decrease in quantified liver Bcl-2 stain intensity when compared to the silymarin-treated group. BFPD administration revealed normal staining intensity comparable to the control. HgCl2 administration revealed a remarked decrease in the number of hepatocytes when compared to the control, BFPD, and silymarin groups. BFPD preserved (p < 0.05) the stereological features when compared to the HgCl2-treated group. GPx activity in the liver decreased (p < 0.05) with HgCl2 administration when compared to the control and silymarin-treated groups. BFPD attenuated GPx gene activity to levels similar to the control indicating some level of amelioration against HgCl2-induced toxicity.ConclusionsThe ability of BFPD to mitigate HgCl2 triggered liver alterations could be attributed to the antioxidant property of its flavonoid content. Therefore, BFPD may be a potential candidate for treating and managing liver-induced mercury intoxication.

Assessment of Acute and Chronic Toxicity in Wistar Rats (Rattus norvegicus) and New Zealand Rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) of an Enriched Polyphenol Extract Obtained from Caesalpinia spinosa.

Although herbal drugs are often considered safe for consumption, there is increasing evidence that some can generate undesirable health effects. However, polyphenols found in certain plants have been shown to provide a range of benefits for human health. In previous work, a standardized and quantified extract (P2Et) obtained from Caesalpinia spinosa (Dividivi) plant showed promising antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory properties in animal models of cancer and COVID-19 patients. The extract has also been subjected to genotoxicity, mutagenicity, and 28-day oral chronic toxicity evaluations, demonstrating a good safety profile. To advance preclinical and clinical development, further acute and chronic toxicity evaluations of the P2Et extract were performed. Acute toxicity tests were performed orally in Wistar rats at a dose of 2000 mg/kg, indicating that the lethal dose 50% (LD50) value exceeded 2000 mg/kg and classifying the P2Et extract as category 5 according to the Globally Harmonized System of Classification (GHS). In this work, chronic toxicity tests were conducted for 180 days on Wistar rats and New Zealand rabbits at a dose of 1000 mg/kg under Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) conditions. No weight loss or alterations in biochemical and hematological parameters associated with treatment were observed in the animals, suggesting the absence of toxicity in the assessed parameters. These results indicate that the P2Et extract is safe for oral administration at doses up to 1000 mg/kg body weight over a six-month period.

Exploration of Teratogenic Effects of Bambusa vulgaris on Wistar Rats by Evaluating Morphological and Skeletal Parameters

AbstractBambusa vulgaris is a commonly consumable plant, which is widely utilized by indigenous peoples as a source of food. Consumption of these plant products in various forms is typically acceptable due to their distinct tastes, and aromatic flavor. However, there is little information on the plant's safety and toxicity profile. Although toxicity information on B. vulgaris is readily available, the impact of plants during pregnancy has yet to be fully explored. To determine the possible mechanism behind teratogenicity, pregnant albino Wistar rats are administered aqueous extracts of B. vulgaris in a dose‐dependent manner. For determining the structural malformations, Teratogenicity indices include maternal common physiological parameters, number of implantations and fetal indices, number of live, resorpsed, and dead somites, morphological malformations, and skeletal malformations of different organs are evaluated by comparing different test groups with control groups. Most developmental indices, including implantation and fetalindices, vertebral, organ, and skeletal structures are significantly altered by the crude extract at higher dosages in treated as compared to control animals. The administration of aqueous extract of B. vulgaris during the organogenesis phase in rats has a considerable deleterious effect on embryonic and fetal developmental indices. It ruthlessly impacts the embryo's numerous organs as well as their typical physiological processes in a dose‐dependent way. The present investigation validates the capacity of B. vulgaris to cause developmental toxicity in Wistar rats, as evidenced by significant alterations in their gestational morphological, structural, and skeletal anatomy and physiology. It is recommended that further scientific studies be conducted to evaluate the more advanced mechanisms of teratogenicity associated with B. vulgaris.

Effect of Ethanolic Stem Extract of Nelsonia Canescens on Selected Biochemical Parameters in Male Wistar Rats Induced with Sodium Arsenite

Medicinal plants are those that have curative qualities or have positive pharmacological effects on the human body. The effect of ethanolic stem extracts from Nelsonia canescens was studied in relation to Sodium arsenite-induced toxicity in wistar rats. Fresh stem extract of Nelsonia canescens were obtained behind rice mill area, Wukari, Taraba state and was shade dried at room temperature and was homogenized into powder and measured at 300g into 100ml of absolute ethanol for 72 hours. 15 healthy male rats of 70g to 90g weight were obtained from animal house Makurdi, Benue state. Animals from Group 1 were used as control. 5mg/kg body weight of Sodium arsenite was administered to Group 2 animals while animals in Groups 3, 4 and 5 were administered with Nelsonia canescens ethanolic stem extracts 50 mg/kg, 100mg/kg and 200 mg/kg as well. At the end of 3 weeks the animals were sacrificed and serum sample were collected and analysed using standard methods. The results indicate that, when compared to those who received Sodium arsenite, those who received ethanol stem extracts of Nelsonia canescens showed a comparatively considerable liver protection against Sodium arsenite -induced damage. The levels of biochemical parameters: Albumin, Total protein, Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), Alkaline phosphatase (ALP), Total bilirubin, Urea, Creatinine of rats administered with Sodium arsenite only was also observed. The Nelsonia canescens extract’s activity at 200mg/kg bw (higher dose) give a reasonable decrease in the amount of these liver enzymes. Deducing from study results, it indicates that Nelsonia canescens leaf extracts could be an effective agent in Sodium arsenite mediated liver toxicity in adult wistar rats and drug development.