Liver Weight In Rats Research Articles

Effect of Polyphenols (Kolaviron and Quercetin) on Hepatic indices of Testosterone Propionate Induced-Benign prostatic Hyperplasia in Wistar rats

This research examined the impact of polyphenols (kolaviron and quercetin) on hepatic indices in Wistar rats with testosterone propionate-induced benign prostatic hyperplasia. Forty-two animals weighing between 250 and 300g were utilized, divided into six groups, each comprising seven animals. Group one served as the normal control and received 0.5ml Canola oil, while group two- six underwent BPH induction via an intraperitoneal injection of 5mg/kg body weight testosterone for four weeks. Following BPH induction, group two got 0.5mL of Canola oil, while groups three, four, five, and six were treated with 150mg/kg body weight Kolaviron, 15mg/kg body weight Quercetin, 150mg/kg body weight kolaviron plus 15mg/kg body weight quercetin and 5mg/70kg body weight finasteride for twenty-eight days. Following the experimental duration, the rats were euthanized, and liver samples were collected for biochemical analyses. BPH induction led to a decrease in liver weight in rats compared to the control group, whereas treatment with Kolaviron, Quercetin, and Kolaviron + Quercetin resulted in an increase in liver weight compared to the BPH group. Moreover, BPH induction elevated hepatic concentrations of ALT, AST, ALP, total protein, albumin, globulin, total bilirubin, and conjugated bilirubin in comparison to the normal control group. Conversely, treatment with KV, QC, and KV+QC decreased the concentrations of ALP, AST, ALT, total protein, albumin, globulin, total bilirubin and conjugated bilirubin compared to the BPH group. In conclusion, our study demonstrated that quercetin and kolaviron significantly reduced the hepatotoxicity in rats induced by testosterone propionate and could be a cheap and non-invasive treatment alternative for hepatic toxicity brought on by benign prostatic hyperplasia in men.

Toxicity of sibutramine hydrochloride-adulterated weight loss supplements in rats based on biochemical and organ weight parameters

Context: Weight-loss supplements are typically natural or herbal supplements that promote weight loss and enhance health. However, the increase in consumption results in the fraudulent adulteration of conventional pharmaceutical drugs, such as sibutramine hydrochloride (SHCl). Aims: To determine the toxicity of weight loss supplements adulterated with SHCl in rats. Methods: Five samples (J1–J5) of weight loss supplements adulterated with SHCl were collected from an online market. The toxicity of the samples was evaluated using 42 male Wistar rats for 35 days. The rats were divided into seven groups: control, J1, J2, J3, J4, J5, and SHCl. Results: The J1 supplement resulted in the most rapid weight loss in rats compared to the other supplements tested. The kidney and liver weights of rats administered weight loss supplements adulterated with SHCl were greater than those of control rats. J1 indicated the supplement with the highest level of toxicity. The group administered J1 exhibited the highest levels of toxicity across all evaluated parameters. Conclusions: This study confirmed the toxicity of weight loss supplements adulterated with SHCl in rats, contributing to the understanding and treatment of adulterated weight loss supplements. Dietary supplements for weight loss should be thoroughly screened for undeclared sibutramine hydrochloride adulteration to protect public health and strengthen legal provisions.

FMO2 ameliorates nonalcoholic fatty liver disease by suppressing ER-to-Golgi transport of SREBP1.

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), comprises a spectrum of liver disorders with the initial abnormal accumulation of lipids in hepatocytes called nonalcoholic fatty liver (NAFL), progressing to the more serious non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) in a subset of individuals. Our previous study revealed that global flavin-containing monooxygenase 2 (FMO2) knockout causes higher liver weight in rats. However, the role of FMO2 in NAFLD remains unclear. Herein, we aimed to determine the function and mechanism of FMO2 in liver steatosis and steatohepatitis. The expression of FMO2 was significantly downregulated in NAFL/NASH patients and mouse model. Both global and hepatocyte-specific knockout of FMO2 resulted in increased lipogenesis and severer hepatic steatosis, inflammation, and fibrosis, whereas FMO2 overexpression in mice improved NAFL/NASH. RNA sequencing showed that hepatic FMO2 deficiency is associated with impaired lipogenesis in response to metabolic challenges. Mechanistically, FMO2 directly interacts with SREBP1 at amino acids 217-296 competitively with SREBP cleavage-activating protein (SCAP) and inhibits SREBP1 translocation from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to the Golgi apparatus (GA) and its subsequent activation, thus suppressing de novo lipogenesis (DNL) and improving NAFL/NASH. In hepatocytes, FMO2 is a novel molecule that protects against the progression of NAFL/NASH independent of enzyme activity. FMO2 impairs lipogenesis in HFD or CDAHFD-induced steatosis, inflammation and fibrosis by directly binding to SREBP1 and preventing its organelle translocation and subsequent activation. FMO2 thus is a promising molecule for targeting the activation of SREBP1 and for the treatment of NAFL/NASH.

The aqueous extract of Artemisia Absinthium L. stimulates HO-1/MT-1/Cyp450 signaling pathway via oxidative stress regulation induced by aluminium oxide nanoparticles (α and γ) animal model

BackgroundThis research aimed to evaluate the protective effects of Artemisia Absinthium L. (Abs) against liver damage induced by aluminium oxide nanoparticles (Al2O3 NPs) in rats, including both structural and functional changes associated with hepatotoxicity.MethodsThirty-six rats were randomly divided into six groups (n = 6). The first group received no treatment. The second group was orally administered Abs at a dose of 200 mg/kg/b.w. The third and fifth groups were injected intraperitoneally with γ-Al2O3 NPs and α-Al2O3 NPs, respectively, at a dose of 30 mg/kg/b.w. The fourth and sixth groups were pre-treated with oral Abs at a dose of 200 mg/kg/b.w. along with intraperitoneal injection of γ-Al2O3 NPs and α-Al2O3 NPs, respectively, at a dose of 30 mg/kg/b.w.ResultsTreatment with γ-Al2O3 NPs resulted in a significant decrease (P < 0.05) in total body weight gain, relative liver weight to body weight, and liver weight in rats. However, co-administration of γ-Al2O3 NPs with Abs significantly increased body weight gain (P < 0.05). Rats treated with Al2O3 NPs (γ and α) exhibited elevated levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), alanine transaminase (ALT), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). Conversely, treatment significantly reduced glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT), total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) levels compared to the control group. Furthermore, the expression of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and metallothionein-1 (MT-1) mRNAs, cytochrome P450 (CYP P450) protein, and histopathological changes were significantly up-regulated in rats injected with Al2O3 NPs. Pre-treatment with Abs significantly reduced MDA, AST, HO-1, and CYP P450 levels in the liver, while increasing GPx and T-SOD levels compared to rats treated with Al2O3 NPs.ConclusionThe results indicate that Abs has potential protective effects against oxidative stress, up-regulation of oxidative-related genes and proteins, and histopathological alterations induced by Al2O3 NPs. Notably, γ-Al2O3 NPs exhibited greater hepatotoxicity than α-Al2O3 NPs.

The effects of a Cilostazol, a selective phosphodiesterase III inhibitor, on liver ischemic-reperfusion injury and liver regeneration; In vitro experimental study

Objective: Hepatectomy and transplantation cause liver damage through ischemic reperfusion and oxidative stress. There is no treatment available to improve liver regeneration and reduce ischemic-reperfusion injury. The present study aimed to investigate whether a selective phosphodiesterase III inhibitor, Cilostazol, improves ischemic reperfusion injury and liver regeneration following extended hepatectomy. Material and Methods: Wistar albino rats (n=40) were randomized and divided into 4 equal groups. All rats underwent 60% hepatectomy, and Cilostazol (5 mg/kg per day) was administered to the experimental group. The subjects were sacrificed on the 4th and 7th days following the resection. Blood samples were taken to evaluate liver enzymes (ALT, AST) and liver tissue samples were taken to analyze morphology. Biochemical, morphological, and histopathological parameters were compared between Groups. Results: No statistically significant differences were detected in ALT, AST values , and relative liver weights in rats treated with Cilostazol compared to the control group without Cilostazol. Although not statistically significant, a significant increase was detected in relative liver weight and a decrease in AST value in rats treated with Cilostazol. SOD activity was found to be significantly higher and GSH levels, MPO and AOPPs levels were significantly lower in Cilostazol applied Groups. It is seen in these findings that selective inhibition of PDE3 by Cilostazol improves hepatic circulation. It was also found that ischemic reperfusion injury decreased and regeneration markers such as mitosis index, even nucleus, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen ratio increased in rats treated with Cilostazol. Conclusion: The present study found that selective PDE3 inhibitor Cilostazol positively affected the histopathological parameters following extended liver resection and significantly increased hepatocellular proliferation.

Postinor®-2 and Norinyl®-1/35 Impairs Hepatic Functions and Morphology in Rat Models: Evidences of Oxidative Stress as a Mechanism Pathway

Oral contraceptives such as Postinor®-2 and Norinyl®-1/35 are easily accessible contraceptive pills by women of reproductive age (15 – 49 years). The hepatic effects of these drugs were evaluated in rats. A total of 25 adult female Wistar rats purchased from the animal house, College of Health Sciences, Benue State University, Makurdi were randomly divided into five groups (1 – 5) of five rats each, and acclimatized for 14 days. After which the groups were treated as follows: group 1 (100mg/kg body weight of normal saline), group 2 (0.10mg/kg body weight of Postinor®-2), group 3 (0.20mg/kg body weight of Postinor®-2), group 4 (0.10mg/kg body weight of Norinyl®-1/35) and group 5 (0.20 mg/kg body weight of Norinyl®-1/35) for 14 days, and then the rats were fasted overnight and sacrificed. Blood samples and organs (liver) were collected for biochemical and histological analysis respectively. Postinor®-2 and Norinyl®-1/35 had no significant effect on the body weight and liver weight of rats across groups. For liver function enzymes; groups 2, 3, 4 and 5 all showed a statistically significant increase in mean compared to the control group for ALT. For ALP, only group 4 (86.69±2.54) showed a statistically significant increase in mean in comparison to group 1, while for AST, groups 2 and 4 showed a significant decrease in mean compared to group 1. For oxidative stress markers MDA and SOD, groups 2 and 3 showed a statistically significant increase and decrease respectively, when compared to the control group. Group 1 showed normal liver histology, while those in groups 2 and 3 showed a markedly distorted liver histology, with widely dilated sinusoids, degenerated endothelial cells with neutrophilic and lymphocytic infiltrates in portal spaces. the results obtained in this study pointed clearly that of the two drugs tested, Postinor®-2 had more deleterious effects than Norinyl®-1/35 on the liver of the adult female Wistar rats. It may therefore be inferred from the result of this study that Postinor®-2 should be taken according to prescription or should be avoided, because its frequent consumption and abuse can result in tissue damage in human organs.

Влияние новых частично гидрированных пиридинов, производных цианотиоацетамида, на морфологические показатели печени крыс с дексаметазоновым сахарным диабетом

Introduction. On the basis of the Chemex Scientific Lab of the Vladimir Dahl Lugansk State University we have synthesized and selected 4 samples of partially hydrogenated pyridine derivatives via in silico screening, containing a furan fragment in the fourth position (codenamed cv-150, cv-140, cv-083 and jen09-039), the effect of which on the course of dexamethasone-induced diabetes mellitus (DM) is of interest. Aim. To study the morphological parameters of the liver of dexamethasone-induced diabetic rats during a period of pronounced senile changes in the setting of pharmacological treatment with new partially hydrogenated pyridines, cyanothioacetamide derivatives. Materials and methods. The experiment was carried out with 92 18-month-old albino male rats, by administering per os 4 samples of 1,4-dihydropyridine at a dose of 1 mg/kg to each individual group of animals with dexamethasone-induced diabetes mellitus. Simultaneously, a control group (dexamethasone-induced diabetes) and a group of intact animals (without steroid-induced diabetes) were used. Dexamethasone was administered for 13 days. The intact and control group of animals consisted of 12 individuals. Four experimental groups of animals consisted of 17 individuals in each group. Animals of the experimental groups received one of the study compounds cv-150, cv-140, cv-083 and jen09-039 via gastric tube at a dose of 1 mg/kg body weight for 21 days. Results. During the experiment, 10 animals died from late complications of DM. Death was recorded in the control and experimental groups treated with cv-083 and jen09-039 compounds. The most pronounced hepatomegaly was found in animals of the control group, the absolute liver weight averaged 16.43 g (3.4% of body weight) with indicators in intact animals group of 14.44 g (2.8% of body weight). The liver weight of rats treated with the cv-150 compound was 12.90 g (2.74% of body weight). The minimal number of pathological changes of the liver was detected in animals receiving partially hydrogenated pyridine cv-083 – 28.6%. The maximum number of pathological changes was registered in control animals receiving dexamethasone without pharmacological treatment – 88.9%. No liver changes were detected in intact rats. Conclusion. Positive metabolic and psychosomatic changes were observed during the experiment in groups of animals treated with cv-150 and cv-140 compounds. There was no mortality in these experimental groups. According to necroptic study, hepatoprotective activity was found in these compounds. The result of using the cv-083 compound is questionable. The jen09-039 compound did not have any positive effect on the course of dexamethasone-induced diabetes.

Internal relative potency factors based on immunotoxicity for the risk assessment of mixtures of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in human biomonitoring

Relative potency factors (RPFs) for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have previously been derived based on liver effects in rodents for the purpose of performing mixture risk assessment with primary input from biomonitoring studies. However, in 2020, EFSA established a tolerable weekly intake for four PFAS assuming equal toxic potency for immune suppressive effects in humans. In this study we explored the possibility of deriving RPFs for immune suppressive effects using available data in rodents and humans. Lymphoid organ weights, differential blood cell counts, and clinical chemistry from 28-day studies in male rats from the National Toxicology Program (NTP) were combined with modeled serum PFAS concentrations to derive internal RPFs by applying dose–response modelling. Identified functional studies used diverse protocols and were not suitable for derivation of RPFs but were used to support immunotoxicity of PFAS in a qualitative manner. Furthermore, a novel approach was used to estimate internal RPFs based on epidemiological data by dose–response curve fitting optimization, looking at serum antibody concentrations and key cell populations from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Internal RPFs were successfully derived for PFAS based on rat thymus weight, spleen weight, and globulin concentration. The available dose–response information for blood cell counts did not show a significant trend. Immunotoxic potency in serum was determined in the order PFDA > PFNA > PFHxA > PFOS > PFBS > PFOA > PFHxS. The epidemiological data showed inverse associations for the sum of PFOA, PFNA, PFHxS, and PFOS with serum antibody concentrations to mumps and rubella, but the data did not allow for deduction of reliable internal RPF estimates. The internal RPFs for PFAS based on decreased rat lymphoid organ weights are similar to those previously established for increased rat liver weight, strengthening the confidence in the overall applicability of these RPFs.

L-carnitine Protects Cisplatin Induced Liver Fibrosis in Experimental Animals via Reducing Oxidative and Nitrosative Stress

Background: The aim of the present study was to examine the protective potential of L-carnitine against Cisplatin-induced liver fibrosis in experimental models. Materials and Methods: The rats were randomly divided into five groups, each containing an equal number of animals (n = 6). Repeated doses of Cisplatin were used to promote liver fibrosis, and serum parameters like aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), total bilirubin (TB), and albumin were assessed, as well as hepatic hydroxyproline (HP), reduced glutathione (GSH), and malondialdehyde (MDA), Superoxide dismutase (SOD), and pro-inflammatory cytokines. A Western blot was used to quantify iNOS expression, and liver tissue was also processed for histological examination (H&amp;E staining). Results: In this investigation, we discovered that Cisplatin decreased body and liver weight in rats, whereas L-carnitine administration resulted in normal body and liver weight. Cisplatin rats had higher levels of serum parameters (AST, ALT, total bilirubin) as well as oxidative parameters like GSH, MDA, and inflammatory-cytokines. Treatment with L-carnitine reduced oxidative stress and suppressed the release of cytokines in a dose-dependent manner, as well as providing protection against fibrosis. In cisplatin-treated rats, iNOS expression was found to be 1.8 times higher. Furthermore, increased iNOS expression was dose-dependently reduced after treatment with L-carnitine. Conclusion: According to the findings, L-carnitine has a protective effect against Cisplatin-induced liver fibrosis.

In vitro activity of a panel of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), fatty acids, and pharmaceuticals in peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) alpha, PPAR gamma, and estrogen receptor assays

Data demonstrate numerous per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) activate peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα), however, additional work is needed to characterize PFAS activity on PPAR gamma (PPARγ) and other nuclear receptors. We utilized in vitro assays with either human or rat PPARα or PPARγ ligand binding domains to evaluate 16 PFAS (HFPO-DA, HFPO-DA-AS, NBP2, PFMOAA, PFHxA, PFOA, PFNA, PFDA, PFOS, PFBS, PFHxS, PFOSA, EtPFOSA, and 4:2, 6:2 and 8:2 FTOH), 3 endogenous fatty acids (oleic, linoleic, and octanoic), and 3 pharmaceuticals (WY14643, clofibrate, and the metabolite clofibric acid). We also tested chemicals for human estrogen receptor (hER) transcriptional activation. Nearly all compounds activated both PPARα and PPARγ in both human and rat ligand binding domain assays, except for the FTOH compounds and PFOSA. Receptor activation and relative potencies were evaluated based on effect concentration 20% (EC20), top percent of max fold induction (pmaxtop), and area under the curve (AUC). HFPO-DA and HFPO-DA-AS were the most potent (lowest EC20, highest pmaxtop and AUC) of all PFAS in rat and human PPARα assays, being slightly less potent than oleic and linoleic acid, while NBP2 was the most potent in rat and human PPARγ assays. Only PFHxS, 8:2 and 6:2 FTOH exhibited hER agonism >20% pmax. In vitro measures of human and rat PPARα and PPARγ activity did not correlate with oral doses or serum concentrations of PFAS that induced increases in male rat liver weight from the National Toxicology Program 28-d toxicity studies. Data indicate that both PPARα and PPARγ activation may be molecular initiating events that contribute to the in vivo effects observed for many PFAS.

Α-Asarone Protects CCL4 Induced Hepatotoxicity in Experimental Rats by inhibiting oxidative stress and cytokines

The present study aimed to study the protective effect of alpha- Asarone in CCL4-induced hepatotoxicity in experimental rats. The rats were randomly divided into 5 groups each containing six rats. CCL4 was given at a dosage of 0.5 mL/kg to produce hepatotoxicity, and serum AST, ALT, total bilirubin, and albumin, as well as hepatic hydroxyproline (HP), reduced glutathione (GSH), and malondialdehyde (MDA), cytokines, and NO, were assessed. CCL4 treatment resulted in a decrease in body weight and an increase in liver weight in rats, while treatment with α- Asarone resulted in normal body and liver weight. Serum AST, ALT, total bilirubin, HP, GSH, MDA, and cytokines were increased in CCL4 treated rats. α- Asarone-treated rats showed a reduction in oxidative stress as well as inhibited the release of cytokines in dose dependent manner and showed protection against hepatotoxicity. From the study, we conclude that, α- Asarone has a protective effect against the hepatotoxicity induced by CCL4.&#x0D; Keywords: CCL4; Hepatotoxicity; ALT; oxidative stress; α- Asarone; Cytokine.

Alpha-Asarone Ameliorates Cisplatin Induced Hepatotoxicity via Reducing the Oxidative Stress in Experimental Animals

Background: The aim of present study was to find protective effect of α-asarone in cisplatin-induced hepatotoxicity in experimental rats. Materials and Methods: The rats were divided into 5 groups at randomly. Cisplatin was given at a dosage of 7.5 mg/kg to produce hepatotoxicity, and serum AST, ALT, total bilirubin, and albumin, as well as hepatic hydroxy proline (HP), reduced glutathione (GSH), and malondialdehyde (MDA), cytokines, and NO, were assessed. Finally, histological examination of liver tissue was performed (H&amp;E staining). Results: Cisplatin treatment resulted in a reduction in body weight and a rise in liver weight in rats, while treatment with -asarone resulted in normal body and liver weight. Serum AST, ALT, total bilirubin, HP, GSH, MDA and cytokines were increased cisplatin rats. α-Asarone treated rats showed reduction in the oxidative stress as well as inhibited the release of cytokines in dose dependent manner and showed protection against hepatotoxicity. Cisplatin treated rat’s shows pathological tissue structure, while rats treated with α- asarone shows normal structure of liver tissue. Conclusion: The study concludes that, α-asarone has protective effect against the hepatotoxicity induced by Cisplatin.

SUBCRONIC TOXICITY TEST OF EXTRACT PERIA FRUIT (Momordica charantia L) ON WISTAR RATS TOTAL CHOLESTEROL (UJI TOKSISITAS SUBKRONIK EKSTRAK PERIA (Momordica charantia L) TERHADAP KADAR KOLESTEROL TOTAL TIKUS WISTAR)

Bitter melon had been widely used by the community as traditional medicine and proven to have effects including antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, antioxidant, antitumor. Further testing is needed to determine the toxic effects that have not been detected in the acute toxicity test, the subchronic toxicity test. This study aims to assess the toxicity seen from the number of deaths, changes in body weight, changes in the weight of rat liver, and cholesterol levels in rat blood. This research is an experimental study using the Posttest Only Control Group Design method. A total of 40 male and female rats wistar strains were divided into a control group (K) and 3 treatment groups (P). Each group consisted of 5 male rats and 5 female rats. Group K is only given food (pellets) and drinking water. P1, P2, and P3 groups were given feed (pellets), drinking water and ethanol extract of peria fruit (Momordica charantia L.) at levels of 250 mg/kg, 500 mg/kg, and 1000 mg/kg. After the first 24 hours of administration the number of rats that died was counted, the change in body weight was weighed for 29 days and on the 29th day a rat’s blood was taken to calculate the cholesterol level of the rat, surgery was also performed to weigh the relative organ weigh of the rat liver. There were no rat deaths in the entire group, there were no weight loss, relative liver organ weight, and cholesterol levels were significant in all group(p&gt;0,05). The ethanol extract of peria fruits in this study showed no toxic. The dose has reached the maximum dose of 1.000 mg/kg but the results have no effect on death, body weight, relative organ weight of the liver, and cholesterol levels.

The effect of avocado seed extract (Persea Americana) on carbide induced hepatoxicity in adult Wistar rats

Background: Persea Americana is reported to have medicinal value. Calcium Carbide (CaC2), a fruit-ripening agent, has been shown to be toxic to body organs. Objective: To determine the effect of avocado seed extract (ASE) on CaC2-induced hepatotoxicity in rats. Materials and Methods: Four experimental groups, each of 5 adult wistar rats were fed respectively with normal diets (group A); 250 mg/kg ASE (group B); 100 mg/kg CaC2 (group C); combination of 100 mg/kg CaC2 and 250 mg/kg ASE – group D. Changes in the rats’ behaviours, body weights, and liver function were assessed over 21 days. Data were analyzed using SPSS. The cumulated rat weights, rat liver weights and serum liver enzyme levels for groups B, C, and D rats were compared with group A. Results: Abnormal behavior was most observed in group C rats. Rats in group A showed a significant increase in weight before and three weeks following administration of feeds while rats in groups B, C, and D showed significant decrease in weight – more marked in group C rats. Only the mean liver weights of rats in group C showed significant decrease compared to that in group A, P = 0.001. Similarly, only the cumulated liver enzyme levels of rats in group C demonstrated significant increase when compared to group A rats - indicating hepatotoxicity. Conclusion: In this study, hepatotoxicity occurred in CaC2-administered rats. However, the combination of CaC2 and ASE showed no liver toxicity indicating a mitigating effect of ASE to CaC2-induced hepatotoxicity.

Therapeutic Effects of Different Animal Bile Powders on Lipid Metabolism Disorders and Their Composition Analysis.

To compare the therapeutic effect of different animal bile powders on lipid metabolism disorders induced by high-fat diet in rats, and analyze the bioactive components of each animal bile powder. Sixty Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into 6 groups (n=10): normal diet control group, high-fat diet model group, high-fat diet groups orally treated with bear, pig, cow and chicken bile powders, respectively. Serum biochemical markers from the abdominal aorta in each group were analyzed. Changes in the body weight and liver weight were recorded. Pathohistological changes in the livers were examined. High performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry was used to determine the composition of bioactive components in each animal bile powder. Treatment with different types of animal bile powders had different inhibitory effects on high-fat diet-induced increase of body weight and/or liver weight in rats, most notably in bear and pig bile powders (P<0.05). High-fat diet induced lipid metabolism disorder in rats, which could be reversed by treatment with all kinds of bile powders. Bear bile and chicken bile showed the most potent therapeutic effect against lipid metabolism disorder. Cow and bear bile effectively alleviated high-fat diet induced liver enlargement and discoloration, hepatocyte swelling, infiltration of inflammatory cells and formation of lipid vacuoles. Bioactive component analysis revealed that there were significant differences in the relative content of taurocholic acid, taurodeoxycholic acid and ursodeoxycholic acid among different types of animal bile. Interestingly, a unique component with molecular weight of 496.2738 Da, whose function has not yet been reported, was identified only in bear bile powder. Different animal bile powders had varying therapeutic effect against lipid metabolism disorders induced by high-fat diet, and bear bile powder demonstrated the most effective benefits. Bioactive compositions were different in different types of animal bile with a novel compound identified only in bear bile powder.

Evaluation of Acute and Sub-acute Toxicity of the Aqueous Extract from the Fruit of Solanum indicum Linn. (Solanaceae) in Rats

Aim: The fruit of Solanum indicum Linn have been reported traditionally to have anti-hypertensive and diuretic properties. This study was undertaken to evaluate the toxicological potential of S. indicum fruits aqueous extract through the acute and sub-acute toxicity tests in rats.&#x0D; Methodology: For acute toxicity evaluation, a single oral dose of 5000 mg/kg of the plant extract was administrated in 60 days old female albino Wistar rats. Then, the animals were observed for 14 days. Sub-acute toxicity studies were conducted with 50 adult rats of both gender that orally received during 28 days, increasing doses of the plant extract. Their body weight and food intake were weekly collected. At the end of the experiment, biochemical and hematological parameters as well as histological analysis of organs (liver, kidneys and spleen) were undertaken.&#x0D; Results: Single oral administration of 5000 mg/kg dose of the fruit plant aqueous extract produced no mortality or signs of toxicity. During sub-acute test, no variations in body weight and food intake of both animals gender were observed. An important decrease in male’s rat liver weight were obtained at the dose 25 mg/kg; serum urea, total cholesterol, TAG, ALP and AST levels were significantly lowered in male especially at the dose 50 mg/kg, but this decrease was noticed only in serum urea, ALP and ALT in female rats. Furthermore, a significant decrease in platelets number, serum PCT, MPV and PDW levels were recorded in all treated male rats except those receiving the highest extract dose. No structural changes in treated animal organs section histology were observed when compared to controls.&#x0D; Conclusion: The fruits aqueous extracts of S. indicum is safe when administered acutely and for 28 days in rats. However, alterations on their hematological and biochemical parameters were not closely related with the dose, implying caution on its use.

Boiled, sprouted, and raw cowpea-incorporated diets modulate high-fat diet-induced hypercholesterolemia in rats.

This study was carried out to investigate the effect of processed (boiled and sprouted) cowpea‐incorporated experimental diets on serum cholesterol and serum antioxidant capacity in high‐fat diet (HFD)‐fed Wistar rats. Seven weeks old male Wistar rats were fed 20% fat as a control (CD), for comparison with 20% fat‐enriched diets containing 20% whole raw cowpea diets (Bombay Raw Diet; BRD and MI35 Raw Diet; MRD), boiled cowpea diets (Bombay Boiled Diet; BBD and MI35 Boiled Diet; MBD) and sprouted cowpea diet (Bombay Sprouted Diet; BSD) for 6 weeks. The increase in serum total cholesterol as a result of high‐fat diet was significantly countered by boiled and raw cowpea‐incorporated diet‐fed rats. Increased serum non‐HDL‐C level caused by HFD was significantly (p < 0.05) countered by raw, boiled, and sprouted cowpeas, while HDL–C was increased by raw MI and boiled Bombay incorporated diets. Boiling has improved the hypocholesterolemic ability of Bombay cowpea and BBD has significantly (p < 0.05) modulated serum HDL‐C level and liver weight in rats. These findings were supported significantly high soluble fiber content in processed cowpea powder than that in raw cowpea powder. The decrease in serum antioxidant activity as a result of HFD was significantly countered by BRD. Processing has reduced the antioxidant activity in cowpeas and serum antioxidant activity in rats. Cecal lactobacilli population was significantly high in all cowpea diet‐fed groups compared to control. Modulated serum cholesterol level in cowpea diet‐fed rats was accompanied by dietary fiber composition, antioxidant activity in cowpeas and fecal weight, cecal weight and cecal lactobacilli population in rats compared to control. Both processed and raw cowpea‐incorporated diets have modulated HFD‐induced hypercholesterolemia by modulating serum antioxidative capacity, cholesterol metabolism, and cecal fermentation.

The Chemical Composition and Metabolic Effects of Attalea phalerata Nut Oil in Hyperlipidemic Rats Induced by a High-Fructose Diet.

The fatty acids found in nuts are important regulators of the metabolism. These acids are frequently associated with a reduction of serum cholesterol and body fat and a lower risk of developing cardiovascular disease. In this context, the aim of this study was to identify and quantify the nut oil fatty acids from Attalea phalerata and investigate their metabolic effects in rats with hyperlipidemia induced by a diet rich in fructose. Oleic and lauric acids were the major compounds found in the A. phalerata nut oil (APNO). Hyperlipidemic rats treated with APNO showed a reduction in the total serum cholesterol similar to those treated with simvastatin, an increased body temperature by 1 °C, and a reduction in the body weight gain and mesenteric depot of white adipose tissue compared to the hyperlipidemic controls rats. There was an increase in the relative liver weight of rats treated with APNO, without, however, any change in the serum markers of hepatic toxicity. In addition, there was an increase in the moisture and lipid content of the feces of the rats treated with APNO compared to the controls. Together, these results suggest that APNO has potential use in health foods and nutritional supplements to control hypercholesterolemia and obesity.

Possible hepatotoxic consequence of nevirapine use in juvenile albino rats

Context: Nevirapine (NVP) is used in human immunodeficiency virus exposed neonates. This could present safety concern due to decreased liver metabolizing enzymes activity and renal clearance in neonates. Aims: To determine the hepatotoxic effect of NVP in juvenile albino rats. Methods: Juvenile albino rats were weighed, divided into groups and treated orally with 4-32 mg/kg/day of NVP for 14 days including a recovery group. The control groups were treated with water (placebo) and normal saline (solvent). At the end of NVP treatment, rats were weighed and sacrificed, blood was collected and serum extracted. Serum was analyzed for alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total bilirubin (TB) and conjugated bilirubin (CB). The liver was harvested via dissection, weighed and evaluated for AST, ALT, ALP, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and histological damage. Results: The body, absolute and relative liver weights of rats in NVP treated groups were not significantly different (p&gt;0.05) when compared to placebo. However, serum levels of AST, ALT, ALP, TB and CB were significantly increased (p&lt;0.05) in a dose-dependent manner in NVP-treated groups. Furthermore, liver levels of ALT, ALP, AST and MDA were significantly increased (p&lt;0.05) while SOD, CAT, and GSH were decreased in a dose dependent manner in NVP-treated groups. NVP-treated rats were characterized by varying degrees of hepatic morphological alterations. However, in the recovery group, the effects of NVP were reversed. Conclusions: This study observed dose-dependent and reversible hepatotoxicity in nevirapine- treated juvenile albino rats.

Hypolipidemic and Hypocholesterolemic Effect of Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) Seeds Oil in Experimental Male Rats.

The current investigation aimed to evaluate the influence of roselle seeds oil (RSO), coconut oil (CNO) and binary mixture of them on serum lipids of experimental rats. Fatty acid composition of native and blended oils was determined. Thirty five male Albino rats (145- 160 g) were used throughout this study. The rats were fed AIN-93G diet containing 10% fat from CNO, RSO, B1 (25%RSO+ 75 %CNO), B2 (50 %RSO+ 50 %CNO or B3 (75 %RSO+ 25 % CNO) for eight weeks. Blood samples were collected at the beginning, every two weeks during the experiment, and at the end of the experiment. At the time of sacrifice, organs weights in relation to their body weights were immediately recorded. Substitution of 25, 50 and 75 % of CNO with equal amounts of RSO reduced saturated fatty acids by 16.04, 32.58 and 48.77 %, respectively in blended oils. The content of linoleic (C18:2) increased from not detected level in CNO to 9.81, 19.67 and 29.48 % in CNO blended with 25, 50 and 75 % of RSO, respectively. The relative liver weights of rats fed CNO was significantly higher than that of those fed RSO and blended oils. Mixing CNO with various levels of RSO attenuates the adverse effect in the relative liver weights which caused by CNO administration. At the end of the experiment, blinding coconut oil with 25, 50 and 75 % of roselle oil inhibited the elevation in total cholesterol by 9.69, 28.16 and 36.16 %, respectively compared to CNO rats. Rats fed diet containing CNO for 8 weeks had significantly the highest content (126.49 mg/dl) of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, while those fed 100 % RSO (as a source of lipids) had the lowest concentration of LDL-C (64.32 mg/dL). Atherogenic index (AI) values of rats submitted B1, B2 and B3 were about 1.12, 1.23 and 1.28 times as low as those of rats fed CNO diet, respectively. The results of this study indicate that roselle seeds oil (RSO) reduces hyperlipidemia and hypercholesterolemia in rats fed diet rich in saturated fatty acids.