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Childhood epilepsy affects up to 1 % of children. It has been shown that 30 % of patients are resistant to drug treatments, making further investigation of other potential treatment strategies necessary. One such approach is the ketogenic diet (KD) showing promising results and potential benefits beyond the use of current antiepileptic drugs. This study aims to investigate the effects of KD on inflammation and oxidative stress, as one of the main suggested mechanisms of neuroprotection, in children with epilepsy. This narrative review was conducted using the Medline and Google Scholar databases, and by searching epilepsy, drug-resistant epilepsy, child, children, ketogenic, ketogenic diet, diet, ketogenic, keto, ketone bodies (BHB), PUFA, gut microbiota, inflammation, inflammation mediators, neurogenic inflammation, neuroinflammation, inflammatory marker, adenosine modulation, mitochondrial function, MTOR pathway, Nrf2 pathway, mitochondrial dysfunction, PPARɣ, oxidative stress, ROS/RNS, and stress oxidative as keywords. Compelling evidence underscores inflammation and oxidative stress as pivotal factors in epilepsy, even in cases with genetic origins. The ketogenic diet effectively addresses these factors by reducing ROS and RNS, enhancing antioxidant defenses, improving mitochondrial function, and regulating inflammatory genes. Additionally, KD curbs pro-inflammatory cytokine and chemokine production by dampening NF-κB activation, inhibiting the NLRP3 inflammasome, increasing brain adenosine levels, mTOR pathway inhibition, upregulating PPARɣ expression, and promoting a healthy gut microbiota while emphasizing the consumption of healthy fats. KD could be considered a promising therapeutic intervention in patients with epilepsy particularly in drug-resistant epilepsy cases, due to its targeted approach addressing oxidative stress and inflammatory mechanisms., (© 2024 Walter de Gruyter GmbH, Berlin/Boston.)

Copyright of Restaurator is the property of De Gruyter and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Poly-N-acetyl-d-glucosamine (CH; chitin) is the main component of the insect skeleton, fungal cell wall, and many crustaceans, including crab and shrimp. CH is the most abundant in nature after cellulose, and it has a complex and hardly soluble structure. Poly-d-glucosamine (CHO; chitosan) is a soluble derivative of CH produced by deacetylation used in many fields, including human health. This study carried out the cytotoxic, genotoxic, and oxidative effects of CHO on human whole blood (hWB) and lymphocytes (LYMs) in dose ranges 6.25-2000 μg/mL, in vitro . Total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and total oxidant status (TOS) analyzes were performed on plasma to appreciate oxidative stress. 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5 diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assays were applied to understand the cytotoxicity. Chromosomal aberration (CA) and micronucleus (MN) methods were practiced to evaluate genotoxicity. 6.25-150 μg/mL doses increased TAC and decreased TOS. A decreasing and increasing curve from 200 to 2000 μg/mL on TAC and TOS values were determined, respectively. 0-250 μg/mL doses did not provide any cytotoxic data. However, 500-2000 μg/mL doses showed increasing cytotoxicity and genotoxicity. The study results showed that CHO does not pose a toxic risk to human health at low doses but may pose a threat at high doses., (© 2021 Walter de Gruyter GmbH, Berlin/Boston.)

This review summarizes and critically evaluates the published approaches and recent trends in sample pre-treatment, as well as both separation and non-separation techniques used for the determination of uric acid (UA) in saliva. UA is the final product of purine nucleotide catabolism in humans. UA concentrations in biological fluids such as serum, plasma, and urine represent an important biomarker of diseases including gout, hyperuricemia, or disorders associated with oxidative stress. Previous studies reported correlation between UA concentrations detected in saliva and in the blood. The interest in UA has been increasing during the past 20 years from a single publication in 2000 to 34 papers in 2019 according to MEDLINE search using term "uric acid in saliva". The evaluation of salivary UA levels can contribute to non-invasive diagnosis of many serious diseases. Increased salivary UA concentration is associated with cancer, HIV, gout, and hypertension. In contrast, low UA levels are associated with Alzheimer disease, progression of multiple sclerosis, and mild cognitive impairment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In sunscreens, ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) are used as inorganic UV filter which have a prominent band edge emission in the UVA region (~385 nm). When applied to biological surface, this highly penetrating UVA emission from ZnO NPs would enhance the generation of reactive oxygen species resulting in oxidative stress. Therefore, the elimination of this harmful UVA emission from ZnO NPs are much sought after for the development of safer sunscreens. In this paper we introduce the use of defect-rich ZnO (D-ZnO) quantum dots (QDs) as a multifunctional active ingredient in sunscreen/cosmetic application. These D-ZnO QDs make use of their defect energy levels to emit in visible region by bypassing their harmful band edge emission at UVA region. The D-ZnO QDs also showed prominent visible luminescence which matches well with the autofluorescence of in vivo human skin. Hence, this visible luminescence could be useful for camouflaging, thereby enabling its potential as a biologically safe active ingredient for both cosmetic and UV screening applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Turkish Journal of Biochemistry / Turk Biyokimya Dergisi is the property of De Gruyter and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Cancer is a serious public health issue and cases are rising at a high rate around the world. Altered production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) causes oxidative stress (OS) which plays a vital role in cancer development by disrupting signaling pathways and genomic integrity in the cellular microenvironment. In this study, we reviewed the regulation of noncoding RNAs, histone modifications, and DNA methylation which OS is involved in. These mechanisms promote cancer growth, metastasis, and resistance to chemotherapeutic agents. There is significant potential to improve patient outcomes through the development of customized medications and interventions that precisely address the role of OS in the onset and progression of cancer. Redox-modulating drugs, antioxidant-based therapies, and measures to restore regular cellular activity and OS-modulated signaling pathways are some examples of these strategies. One other hypothesis rationalizes the cancer-suppressing effect of OS, which acts as a two-edged condition that warns against the use of antioxidants for cancer treatment and management. The present study was executed to review the impact of OS on epigenetic machinery, the evolution of metastatic cancer, and how OS mediates cellular signaling. Along with, insights into the potential of targeting OS-mediated mechanisms for cancer therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune debilitating disease of the central nervous system caused by a mosaic of interactions between genetic predisposition and environmental factors. The pathological hallmarks of MS are chronic inflammation, demyelination, and neurodegeneration. Oxidative stress, a state of imbalance between the production of reactive species and antioxidant defense mechanisms, is considered one of the key contributors in the pathophysiology of MS. This review is a comprehensive overview of the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which oxidant species contribute to the initiation and progression of MS including mitochondrial dysfunction, disruption of various signaling pathways, and autoimmune response activation. The detrimental effects of oxidative stress on neurons, oligodendrocytes, and astrocytes, as well as the role of oxidants in promoting and perpetuating inflammation, demyelination, and axonal damage, are discussed. Finally, this review also points out the therapeutic potential of various synthetic antioxidants that must be evaluated in clinical trials in patients with MS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Combining tamoxifen, the most common breast cancer hormonal therapy, with natural antitumor substances may prevent its hyperplastic effects on the uterine endometrium. Dacryodes edulis (DE) is traditionally recommended for the treatment of cancerous diseases. To investigate its antiproliferative properties, the present study was designed to assess the ability of the combined administration of tamoxifen with the aqueous extract of DE leaves to inhibit the trophic effect of this hormone therapy on rat uterine endometrium without compromising its non-proliferative effect on breast tissue. Ovariectomized (OVX) female Wistar rats were simultaneously treated with tamoxifen (10 mg/kg) intraperitoneally and DE leaves (at doses of 25, 50 and 100 mg/kgBW) by gavage. Control groups received either distilled water or tamoxifen alone. Treatments lasted 37 days. The 38th day, animals were sacrificed under anesthesia (diazepam: 10 mg/kgBW and ketamine: 50 mg/kgBW). The relative uterine weight was determined and the histological analysis of the uterus and mammary gland was performed. The oxidative status of the uterus was assessed and the levels of cholesterol and estradiol were evaluated in serum and uterus. Tamoxifen increased uterine weight and induced endometrial hyperplasia. This effect was associated with increased uterine levels of cholesterol (164.22%; p < 0.001), estradiol (927.5%; p < 0.001) and malondiadehyde (86%; p < 0.05), but unchanged antioxidant enzymes activities. The administration of DE leaves unchanged tamoxifen-increased uterine weight but reduced uterine epithelium hypertrophy (56.4%; p < 0.01). DE also increased uterine levels of malondiadehyde and antioxidant enzymes. The levels of estradiol and cholesterol in the uterus decreased while no changes were observed in the mammary gland of animals treated with tamoxifen alone or in co-administration with DE. D. edulis has antiproliferative properties and could complement endocrine therapy of estrogen-dependent breast cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PurA is an evolutionary conserved protein that is known to bind to single stranded DNA or RNA and regulate both transcription and translation. PurA has been implicated in many neurological and neurodevelopmental deficits, but its role in response to cellular stress has not yet been clarified. In this study, we have studied the cells' stress response in the presence and absence of PurA expression. Oxidative stress was induced in MEF cells obtained from PURA WT and K/O mice by paraquat treatments. The cellular response to stress was determined and compared by viability assays, immunocytochemistry and biochemical analyses. Interestingly, paraquat treated PurA expressing MEF cells showed higher sensitivity and less cellular viability than those with no PurA expression. Moreover, western blot analysis revealed increase in the expression of the apoptotic marker cleaved caspase 3 and autophagy marker LC3-II in PurA WT MEF cells compared to the PurA K/O MEF cells under oxidative stress induction. Our observations indicate that PurA may play a key role in regulating cellular toxicity induced by oxidative stress and emphasize its importance for cell-fate determination under cytotoxic stress conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This in vivo study aimed to evaluate the effect of various concentrations of artemisinin (Art) alone or together with N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) on spermatological indices, antioxidant status, and histopathological parameters of testicular tissue in adult male mice. Six groups of five healthy male mice (25–30 g) were randomly assigned to different experimental groups. These groups received DMSO and corn oil (0.1%) as an Art solvent (Control), 50 mg kg−1 Art (Art-50), 250 mg kg−1 Art (Art-250), 50 mg kg−1 Art + 150 mg kg−1 NAC (Art-50+NAC-150), 250 mg kg−1 Art + 150 mg kg−1 NAC (Art-250+NAC-150) and 150 mg kg−1 NAC (NAC-150) for a period of 7 days. Testes and epididymis were prepared to evaluate the malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POX), spermatological indices, and histological parameters. We showed that the high dose of Art (Art-250) significantly reduced the sperm count, motility, viability, and the activity of CAT and increased the levels of MDA compared to the control group. Also, the overdose of Art caused adverse changes in testicular tissue. Co-administration of NAC with Art (Art-250+NAC-150) corrected the adverse effects of Art. The current study reports that a high dose of Art affects, spermatological parameters, antioxidant/stress oxidative status of the male reproductive system, and NAC is capable neutralize all adverse effects caused by Art. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This systematic review examines the effect of photobiomodulation (PBM), the application of red to near infrared light on body tissues, on the neuroinflammatory response and oxidative stress in animal models of neurodegenerative diseases. The research question and search protocol were prospectively registered on the PROSPERO database. Neurodegenerative diseases are becoming ever more prevalent in the ageing populations across the Western world, with no disease-modifying or neuroprotective treatment options being available. Hence there is a real need for the development of effective treatment options for patients. Inflammatory responses and oxidative stress within the central nervous system have a strong correlation with neuronal cell death. PBM is a non-invasive therapeutic option that has shown efficacy and promising effects in animal models of neurodegenerative disease; many studies have reported neuroprotection and improved behavioural outcomes. To the best of our knowledge, there has been no previous study that has reviewed the anti-inflammatory and the antioxidant effect of PBM in the context of neurodegeneration. This review has examined this relationship in animal models of a range of neurodegenerative diseases. We found that PBM can effectively reduce glial activation, pro-inflammatory cytokine expression and oxidative stress, whilst increasing anti-inflammatory glial responses and cytokines, and antioxidant capacity. These positive outcomes accompanied the neuroprotection evident after PBM treatment. Our review provides further indication that PBM can be developed into an effective non-pharmacological intervention for neurodegenerative diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Doxorubicin (DOX) is a commonly used chemotherapeutic drug. However, its non-target organ toxicities pose a serious problem. This study is to assess the protective role of Clerodendrum volubile leaf extract (CVE) against DOX-induced toxicities in rats. In addition, the inhibitory activities of three phytochemical compounds (Rutin, Gallic acid and Rosmarinic acid) from CVE against Carbonyl reductase 1 (CBR1) were examined. Rats were randomly divided into 5 groups: (a) Control group rats were given 0.9% NaCl as vehicle, (b) DOX group: A single dose of DOX (25 mg/kg; i.p.) was administered and rats were sacrificed 4 days after DOX injection, while groups (c–e) CVE-treated DOX rat groups were given 125, 250 and 500 mg/kg body weight of extracts orally for 12 consecutive days; 8 days before, and 4 days after the DOX administration. Computational techniques were used to determine the inhibitory activities of the compounds against CBR1. DOX intoxication caused a significant increase (p<0.05) in serum marker enzymes: ALT, AST, ALP, LDH, CK activities. The levels of liver and heart tissues antioxidant parameters: GPx, SOD, CAT, and GSH were significantly (p<0.05) decreased in DOX-intoxicated rats with concomitant elevation of malondialdehyde levels. Pretreatment with CVE reversed the above trends. From the structural analysis, Rutin and RSA exhibited the highest binding free energies against CBR1, and also exhibited structural stability when bound with CBR1. Our study indicates the protective effect of CVE when used in combination with doxorubicin thus improving its chemotherapeutic application via inhibition of CBR-mediated metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The World Health Organization lists air pollution as one of the top five risks for developing chronic non-communicable disease, joining tobacco use, harmful use of alcohol, unhealthy diets and physical inactivity. This review focuses on how host defense mechanisms against adverse airborne exposures relate to the probable interacting and overlapping pathophysiological features of neurodegeneration and multiple chemical sensitivity. Significant long-term airborne exposures can contribute to oxidative stress, systemic inflammation, transient receptor subfamily vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) and subfamily ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) upregulation and sensitization, with impacts on olfactory and trigeminal nerve function, and eventual loss of brain mass. The potential for neurologic dysfunction, including decreased cognition, chronic pain and central sensitization related to airborne contaminants, can be magnified by genetic polymorphisms that result in less effective detoxification. Onset of neurodegenerative disorders is subtle, with early loss of brain mass and loss of sense of smell. Onset of MCS may be gradual following long-term low dose airborne exposures, or acute following a recognizable exposure. Upregulation of chemosensitive TRPV1 and TRPA1 polymodal receptors has been observed in patients with neurodegeneration, and chemically sensitive individuals with asthma, migraine and MCS. In people with chemical sensitivity, these receptors are also sensitized, which is defined as a reduction in the threshold and an increase in the magnitude of a response to noxious stimulation. There is likely damage to the olfactory system in neurodegeneration and trigeminal nerve hypersensitivity in MCS, with different effects on olfactory processing. The associations of low vitamin D levels and protein kinase activity seen in neurodegeneration have not been studied in MCS. Table 2 presents a summary of neurodegeneration and MCS, comparing 16 distinctive genetic, pathophysiological and clinical features associated with air pollution exposures. There is significant overlap, suggesting potential comorbidity. Canadian Health Measures Survey data indicates an overlap between neurodegeneration and MCS (p < 0.05) that suggests comorbidity, but the extent of increased susceptibility to the other condition is not established. Nevertheless, the pathways to the development of these conditions likely involve TRPV1 and TRPA1 receptors, and so it is hypothesized that manifestation of neurodegeneration and/or MCS and possibly why there is divergence may be influenced by polymorphisms of these receptors, among other factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As shown in the figure, with the increase of the amount of cross-linking agent, the relative enzyme activity of PMCSM@GOD@CAT firstly increased and then decreased, and the highest relative enzyme activity was 132.45 ± 3.35% when the amount of cross-linking agent was 200 L. When the concentration of cross-linking agent was low, the cross-linking between the enzyme and the carrier was incomplete. Keywords: catalase; co-immobilization; glucose oxidase; porous magnetic microsphere EN catalase co-immobilization glucose oxidase porous magnetic microsphere 989 1001 13 09/20/22 20220901 NES 220901 1 Introduction Sodium gluconate (SG) is rich in hydroxyl groups and is a deeply processed product of glucose. 3.4 Effect of the amount of GOD and CAT on the enzyme activity of GOD In the process of immobilization of the enzyme in the carrier, the relative amount of the enzyme and the carrier has a certain influence on the relative enzyme activity. When the pore size of the microspheres was 790.15 ± 250.91 nm, the immobilized enzyme activity reached 16.93 ± 0.14 U. At the same time, the enzyme load was the highest, which was 58.28 ± 2.64 mg/g. Different amount of GOD and CAT will affect the activity of immobilized enzyme, thus affecting the yield of SG. [Extracted from the article]

The article highlights a study to evaluate the effect of Ficus glumosa on phenylhydrazineinduced hemolytic anemia and hepatic damage in rats. It discusses that the leaves of F. glumosa contain important antioxidant(s) that could effectively reduce hemolytic anemia and hepatic damage, especially during phenylhydrazine-induced toxicity.

The article highlights a study which shows that a progressive loss of Central Nervous System function by the workers of the Al flake powder factory, which shows the myoclonic jerks, memory loss, speech, dementia, and hemiparesis. It discusses that different herbs including Pomel, Onion, Amla, Garlic, Turmeric, Fennel, Bael, Acai, African mango, Black nightshade, Tagara, Lycopene, Beer plant, Pomegranate, and others can be considered as the potential treatments for heavy metals poisoning.

The article presents abstracts of papers on oxidative stress to be presented at EuroMedLab Paris 2015 Conference in France including the use of the compound superoxid dismutase as a marker in measuring the antioxidant capacity of dyslipidaemic patients, the correlation between oxidative stress and trace elements in patients afflicted with the disease called brucella melitensis, and the status of antioxidant enzymes in Tunisian patients with non small cell lung cancer.

The balance between oxidative stress and antioxidant defense has been reported to differ between women with endometriosis and patients with its malignant transformation. The aim of this study is to investigate changes in redox balance in endometriosis and endometriosis-related ovarian cancer (EAOC) by simultaneously measuring iron-related compounds and bilirubin. This study included 235 patients with a histopathologically confirmed diagnosis of endometriosis (n=178) and EAOC (n=57). Cyst fluid samples were collected in Nara Medical University hospital from January 2013 to May 2019. The levels of iron-related compounds (total iron, heme iron, free iron, oxyhemoglobin [oxyHb], methemoglobin [metHb], and metHb/oxyHb ratio) and bilirubin were measured. Total iron, heme iron, free iron, metHb/oxyHb ratio, and bilirubin were significantly elevated in endometriosis compared to EAOC. In both endometriosis and EAOC, iron-related compounds in the cyst were correlated with each other. There was no statistically significant difference in oxyHb and metHb levels between the two groups, but the metHb/oxyHb ratio was significantly higher in endometriosis than in EAOC. Bilirubin was positively correlated with total iron and free iron in EAOC, but there was no correlation between bilirubin and iron-related compounds in endometriosis. Iron-induced oxidative stress in endometriosis may exceed bilirubin-dependent antioxidant capability, while redox homeostasis in EAOC can be maintained by at least bilirubin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cynometra travancorica, endemic to Western Ghats of India is pharmacologically similar to Saraca asoca and occasionally used as substitute in a well-known Ayurvedic uterine tonic Asokarishta. S. asoca possess various biological properties, but there are no reports on C. travancorica. The present study evaluated the pharmacological properties of C. travancorica and its efficacy in attenuating the sodium fluoride (NaF) induced oxidative stress in mice. Antioxidant potential of methanolic extract of C. travancorica (CTE) stem bark was evaluated using DPPH, superoxide radical scavenging and total antioxidant assays. The effect of CTE on mitigating NaF deteriorated redox status in the liver tissue of mice was evaluated. Functional groups in CTE were analyzed by FTIR analysis. CTE effectively scavenged the free radicals in in vitro condition. CTE could augment catalase (46.6%), superoxide dismutase (53.8%) activities and GSH level (48.1%) against NaF induced decline in the liver tissue of mice. The peroxidation of lipids was found to be decreased by 44.9% and tissue damage abated as inferred by histopathology. FTIR analysis revealed the presence of biologically active functional groups in CTE. The study revealed the ameliorative effect of C. travancorica against NaF induced deleterious effect in experimental animals by its potent antioxidant potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the possible protective roles of exogenous glycine (Gly) and L-Arginine (l-Arg) against Diclofenac (DIC)-induced gastro-duodenal damage in rats. Rats were divided into Group A (control), Group B (DIC group) and Groups C–F which were pre-treated for five days with Gly1 (250 mg/kg), Gly2 (500 mg/kg), l-Arg1 (200 mg/kg) and l-Arg2 (400 mg/kg), respectively, before co-treatment with DIC for another three days. Hematological, biochemical and histopathological analyses were then carried out. DIC produced significant (p<0.05) reduction in PCV (13.82%), Hb (46.58%), RBC (30.53%), serum total protein (32.72%), albumin (28.44%) and globulin (38.01%) along with significant (p<0.05) elevation of serum MPO activity (83.30%), when compared with control. In addition, DIC increased gastric H2O2 and MDA levels by 33.93 and 48.59%, respectively, while the duodenal levels of the same parameters increased by 19.43 and 85.56%, respectively. Moreover, SOD, GPx and GST activities in the DIC group were significantly (p<0.05) reduced in the stomach (21.12, 24.35 and 51.28%, respectively) and duodenum (30.59, 16.35 and 37.90%, respectively), compared to control. Treatment with Gly and l-Arg resulted in significant amelioration of the DIC-induced alterations although l-Arg produced better amelioration of RBC (29.78%), total protein (10.12%), albumin (9.93%) and MPO (65.01%), compared to the DIC group. The protective effects of both amino acids against oxidative stress parameters and histological lesions were largely similar. The data from this study suggest that Gly or l-Arg prevented DIC-induced gastro-duodenal toxicity and might, therefore be useful in improving the therapeutic index of DIC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Protocatechuic acid (PCA) possesses numerous pharmacological activities, including antioxidative and anti-inflammatory activities. This study seeks to investigate its underlying mechanism of action in the liver and brain toxicity induced by CCl4 in male albino rats. Rats were given PCA at 10 and 20 mg/kg daily and orally as a pretreatment for seven days. A single injection of CCl4 was given 2 h later to induce brain and liver toxicity. CCl4 moderately elevated the activities of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). PCA lowered AST level significantly when compared to control. Total protein and albumin levels presented insignificant changes (p>0.05) in all groups while lipid profile showed increased total cholesterol level and reduced high-density lipoprotein (HDL) by CCl4. PCA (10 mg/kg) significantly reduced the cholesterol level while the 20 mg/kg dose moderately prevented HDL reduction. There was an increased MDA production with a corresponding low GSH level in the group treated with CCl4. Activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione-S-transferase in both organs also declined. PCA, especially at 10 mg/kg attenuated lipid peroxidation by increasing GSH level in the organs. Biochemical assays revealed the improvement of antioxidant enzyme activities by PCA in these organs. Furthermore, PCA lowered the level of proinflammatory cytokine COX 2 in the brain and liver while NF-kB expression was inhibited in the brain. Histopathology reports validated the effects of PCA. PCA exhibited protection against toxicity in these tissues through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities and the potential mechanism might be through modulation of the NF-κB/COX-2 pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetes mellitus associated cognitive impairment is suggested to be due to oxidative stress. Considering the anti-diabetic, antioxidant, antihyperlipidemic, and anti-inflammatory effects of Zingiber officinale, the present study aimed to investigate its effect on memory and oxidative stress factors in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. The rats were allocated into five groups: Control, Diabetic, Diabetic + Ginger 100, Diabetic + Ginger 200, and Diabetic + Ginger 400. Following diabetes induction by STZ (60 mg/kg), 100, 200, or 400 mg/kg Ginger was given for eight weeks. Passive avoidance test (PA) was done and thiol, malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) measurements were carried out in the brain. The latency into the dark compartment decreased (p<0.001) and the number of entries and time spent in the dark chamber increased in the Diabetic group compared to the Control (p<0.001 for all). All three doses of extract improved performance of the rats in the PA test (p<0.001 for all). The hippocampal and cortical MDA level was higher (p<0.001) while CAT, SOD, and total thiol were lower (p<0.01–p<0.001) in the Diabetic group than the Control. Treatment with 200 and 400 mg/kg Z. officinale extract reduced hippocampal and cortical MDA (p<0.001) and improved CAT (p<0.001) while, just the dose of 400 mg/kg of the extract increased SOD and total thiol in hippocampal and cortical tissues (p<0.001) compared with Diabetic group. Z. officinale extract could improve memory by reducing the oxidative stress in STZ-induced diabetes model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacterial colonization of male reproductive tissues, cells, and fluids, and the subsequent impact of bacteria on the sperm architecture, activity, and fertilizing potential, has recently gained increased attention from the medical and scientific community. Current evidence strongly emphasizes the fact that the presence of bacteria in semen may have dire consequences on the resulting male fertility. Nevertheless, the molecular basis underlying bacteriospermia-associated suboptimal semen quality is sophisticated, multifactorial, and still needs further understanding. Bacterial adhesion and subsequent sperm agglutination and immobilization represent the most direct pathway of sperm–bacterial interactions. Furthermore, the release of bacterial toxins and leukocytic infiltration, associated with a massive outburst of reactive oxygen species, have been repeatedly associated with sperm dysfunction in bacteria-infested semen. This review serves as a summary of the present knowledge on bacteriospermia-associated male subfertility. Furthermore, we strived to outline the currently available methods for assessing bacterial profiles in semen and to outline the most promising strategies for the prevention and/or management of bacteriospermia in practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was designed to evaluate the ameliorative effect of almond (Terminalia catappa) leaf (ALE) and stem bark (ABE) extracts on the enzyme activities and oxidative stress markers in the brain and liver tissues of cyclosporine-A (CsA) stressed male albino rats. Eighty-eight adult male rats weighing between 200 and 220 g were randomly distributed to into 11 groups (n=8) and different doses (100 and 200 mg/kg bwt.) of ALE and ABE were administered through oral gavages to the normal rats and 50 mg/kg/bwt/day CsA-stressed, while normal control rats was given a saline solution (p.o), and the treatment lasted for 14 days. Blood plasma, liver and brain tissues were prepared for biochemical analysis. Neuronal [acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butrylcholinesterase (BChE) and arginase] enzyme activities and thiobarbituric acid reactive species (TBARS) level, plasma aspartate transferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activities, liver non-protein thiol (NPSH) level were analyzed. The results revealed that, the administration of CsA induced a significant increase in neuronal AChE, BChE, arginase, TBARS level, but decreased nitric oxide (NO) level. CsA also increased ALT, AST, and ALP activities in the blood plasma of CsA stress rats compared to normal control, but were significantly reversed respectively (p<0.001) upon treatment with the ALE and ABE dose-dependently. The study revealed that ALE and ABE could prevent neuronal dysfunction and liver toxicity induced by CsA administration, however, higher dose (200 mg/kg) of the studied extracts appears to be more potent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study assessed the attenuating effect of citrus flavonone, naringenin, and its nanoformulation against cadmium (Cd) toxicity in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Nanoparticles of naringenin (NNn) were synthesized; size 165.1 nm (PDI 0.396) in variable shapes; cluster widespread, spherical accumulated, and tubular bacillary. Parallel, mature male Nile tilapia (n = 120 fish) were used for the exposure study. Group I was negative control. The groups II, III, and IV were exposed to 5 ppm of cadmium chloride monohydrate (CdCl2·H2O) for 21 days. Group III was treated with bulk naringenin (BNn) (3 ppm) and group IV was treated with NNn (3 ppm). Group V was exposed only to NNn (3 ppm). Cd-induced oxidative stress was evident from a significant increase in the hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and modulation of antioxidant enzymes in the liver and kidney. A significant increase in the hepatic metallothionein and HSP70 levels in the gills was observed. Treatment with both BNn and NNn significantly (p ≤ 0.05) reversed the Cd-induced alterations. However, the protective effect of nano naringenin was more profound on the bioaccumulation of Cd in liver and levels of HSP70 in the gills. These key findings could add to the commercial exploitation of naringenin and its nanosized form as a dietary therapeutic molecule. Effect of naringenin and its nanoparticles on Cd-induced toxicity in Nile tilapia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates protection against oxidative stress and memory enhancing potential of long-term consumption of Moringa oleifera leaves. Male Wistar rat were fed with mixture of M. oleifera-supplemented diets (MOSD) partitioned in 1, 5, 10, and 20% continuously for 12 weeks. Object recognition test (ORT) and Morris water maze (MWM) was used for assessing neurocognition. Changes in body weight, Lipid peroxidation (MDA), Glutathione (GSH), Catalase (CAT) and Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity was assayed in the brain tissue. Histomorphometric of the hippocampus was also examined. The diets progressively increase the body weigh after the 12 weeks, improved spatial (MWM) and non-spatial (ORT) memory performance, protect against oxidative stress, inhibit AChE activity and suppresses neuronal degeneration in the hippocampus when stained with Cresyl violent stain. Conclusively, long-term consumption of MOSD shows strong protection against oxidative stress and hippocampal degeneration and improves neurocognition with dose dependent effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Psoriasis is an autoimmune, inflammatory disease that needs a reliable animal model. Imiquimod (IMQ)-induced psoriasis is a widely used preclinical tool for psoriasis research. However, this model is sensitive to the genetic variation of mice. The present study explores mice's genetic background on disease stability and severity induced by IMQ. Three distinct strains of mice (Balb/c, C57BL/6, and Swiss albino) were divided into four groups (Vaseline, IMQ, IMQ+Clobetasol, and IMQ+Curcumin). Psoriasis area severity index (PASI) score, ear/back skin thickness, body weight alterations, and histopathological examination were employed to analyze disease severity. The spleen index studied the systemic effect. Strain effect on oxidative stress induced by IMQ was evaluated by estimating antioxidant factors, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and glutathione (GSH). IMQ application resulted in increased PASI score, thickness, and alterations in body weight, confirming disease development in all the mice. However, the disease stability/severity between these strains was not identical. Although IMQ application caused splenomegaly, IMQ+curcumin treated C57BL/6 mice demonstrated a synergistic effect of IMQ and curcumin on the spleen resulting in increased splenomegaly. Decreased cellular enzyme activity in SOD, Catalase, and levels of GSH was observed in IMQ challenged mice, indicating the participation of the redox system in the genesis of the disease that was comparable among the strains. These results indicate the existence of strain-dependent development of the disease. The Swiss model was found to be better in terms of disease severity and stability than other models. Further, a detailed mechanistic study might help to explain the pathological difference between these strains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neera, non-fermented coconut inflorescence sap (NFCIS) and its fermented form, toddy (FCIS) are the two well-known traditional drinks in South India. Both the saps show high rejuvenation effect and NFCIS is used for the curing of bronchial suffocation, anemia, tuberculosis and piles in traditional medicine. But, a few scientific studies have been reported on their health benefits so far. Presently, the antioxidant effect of both non-fermented (NFCIS) and fermented form (FCIS) of coconut inflorescence were analyzed in experimental animals. The free radical scavenging property of FCIS and NFCIS was analyzed in vitro. The effect of these saps on mitigating sodium fluoride (NaF) deteriorated redox status was evaluated in mice. NFCIS exhibited high antioxidant activity than its fermented form. NFCIS reduces metal ions and scavenge hydroxyl and DPPH radicals with IC50 values 6.5 ± 1.9 and 44 ± 3.14 µL/mL, respectively. Supplementation of NFCIS for 14 days increased SOD, CAT and GPx activities and GSH level in liver by 51.67, 52, 27.88 and 35.77%, respectively against NaF induced decline with a concomitant decrease in lipid peroxidation to 40.76%. Saps rich in minerals indicate pharmaceutical and nutritional value. The study revealed the antioxidant efficacy of non-alcoholic natural drink, Neera and recommends an alternative for synthetic carbonated soft drinks. The regular consumption of Neera may protect the body from various chronic diseases especially where the oxidative stress played as a key role. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetic nephropathy is one of the major complications of diabetes, the use of medicinal plants is increasing due to fewer side effects. This study was designed to examine antidiabetic effects of Allium jesdianum (A. jesdianum) ethanolic extract and evaluate its effects on oxidative stress markers and the expression of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) and receptor for advanced glycation endproducts (RAGE) genes in the kidney of type 1 diabetic rats. In this study, we randomly divided 24 rats into four groups with six rats in each group as follows: Cnt group: normal control receiving normal saline, Dibt group: diabetic control receiving normal saline daily, Dibt + A. jesdianum 250 group: diabetic rats receiving A. jesdianum at a dose of 250 mg/kg bw daily, Dibt + A. jesdianum 500 group: diabetic rats receiving A. jesdianum at a dose of 500 mg/kg bw daily. To induce diabetes, we used 55 mg/kg bw dose of streptozotocin intraperitoneally. The concentration of fasting blood glucose (FBG) and serum urea, creatinine and albumin, SOD, MDA (using spectrophotometric methods) and gene expression of CTGF and RAGE in kidney tissue (using real-time PCR methods) were quantified in the diabetic rats that received A. jesdianum for 42 days, and were compared to control rats. The results showed that in the diabetic group the FBG and serum urea, creatinine and expression of kidney CTGF and RAGE genes and the levels of SOD and MDA significantly increased and serum albumin significantly decreased compared to the Cnt group (p<0.001). Administration of A. jesdianum significantly improved the FBG and serum urea, creatinine and albumin compared to Dibt group (p<0.05). It was shown the A. jesdianum significantly decrease the kidney expression levels of CTGF and RAGE genes and improve oxidative stress (increased SOD and decreased MDA) in the kidney tissues when compared to Dibt group (p<0.001). Also, it was found that the beneficial effects of the A. jesdianum were dose-dependent. The results of this study showed that administration of A. jesdianum for 42 days has beneficial anti-diabetic and anti-nephropathic effects in diabetic rats and can be used as an adjunct therapy in the treatment of diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiovascular diseases are major causes of non-infectious diseases globally. The use of pesticides has been linked with the high global burden of non-communicable diseases. Despite the indiscriminate exposure to dichlorvos (DDVP) by inhalation, no report exists on its possible cardiotoxic effect. This study investigated the cardiotoxicity of DDVP exposure by inhalation and the possible role of Moringa oleifera seed oil. Twenty-one male rats were randomly assigned into 3 groups. Group A (control) received only standard rat diet and water ad' libitum, group B (DDVP) was exposed to DDVP via inhalation for 15 min daily in addition to rat diet and water, and group C (DDVP + M. oleifera seed oil) received treatment as group B as well as 300 mg/kg of M. oleifera seed oil p.o for 28 days. Significant reductions in body weight gain and cardiac weight were observed in DDVP-exposed animals (p<0.05). Similarly, 28 days of exposure to DDVP led to a significant increase in lactate dehydrogenase, creatinine kinase and troponin (p<0.05). DDVP-exposed rats also showed a significant increase in malondialdehyde, and a significant decline in superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase (p<0.05). However, catalase was comparable in DDVP-exposed and control rats. Histopathological observations of the cardiac tissue revealed that DDVP caused marked fat degeneration and necrosis of the myocardial layer. The changes in DDVP-exposed rats were significantly, though not completely, restored by M. oleifera seed oil administration. This study provides novel mechanistic information on the cardiotoxicity of DDVP inhalation, and the antioxidant potential of M. oleifera seed oil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypertension is the number one risk factor and primary contributor of cardiovascular diseases. Caesalpinia benthamiana is a valuable medicinal plant with unvalidated anti-hypertensive activity. This study was carried out to explore the antihypertensive effect of C. benthamiana on uninephrectomized hypertensive rats. Fifty rats were grouped into five groups, each containing 10 animals: Group A-normal control (normotensive); B-uninephrectomized control; C-uninephrectomized treated with 50 mg/kg C. benthamiana extract; D-uninephrectomized treated with 100 mg/kg C. benthamiana; and E- uninephrectomized treated with 10 mg/kg of Lisinopril. Significant increases were observed in systolic, diastolic and mean blood pressure of uninephrectomized control rats. Furthermore, markers of oxidative stress (malondialdehyde, hydrogen peroxide, protein carbonyl, myeloperoxidase and the advanced oxidative protein products) increased significantly while antioxidant status (reduced glutathione, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione S-transferase and superoxide dismutase), reduced significantly in uninephrectomized hypertensive rats. Histopathology revealed thrombosis and occlusion of coronary vessels in the heart, and congestion in the kidney. However, the observed high blood pressure parameters were remarkably normalized together with reduction in markers of oxidative stress and improvement in antioxidant defence system of uninephrectomized hypertensive rats treated with C. benthamiana extract similar to normotensive rats. C. benthamiana extract exhibited antihypertensive action, strong antioxidant ability, attenuated oxidative stress-mediated hypertension and lessened the development of cardiac and renal damage associated with hypertension induced by uninephrectomy and high dietary intake of salt. Together, C. benthamiana extract might be useful in the management of hypertension due to volume overload in the cardiovascular system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neera, nonfermented coconut inflorescence sap (NFCIS) from unopened spadix of Cocos nucifera L., is a well-known traditional beverage. But, scientific reports on its health benefits are limited. NFCIS is reported to exhibits free radical scavenging activity, and its chemical composition is found promising. In the present study, the effect of NFCIS on alleviating cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity was analyzed in mice. The renal toxicity was induced by cisplatin (16 mg/kg b.wt. ip) in Swiss albino mice. The antioxidant activity of NFCIS was evaluated by nitric oxide radical scavenging assay and phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate–induced superoxide radical generation in mice peritoneal macrophages. Total polyphenolic content of sap was determined using Folin–Ciocalteu reagent. The phytochemicals present in NFCIS was identified using Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. NFCIS was found to scavenge nitric oxide (NO) radicals (IC50 = 32 ± 2.47 μL/mL) and shown to inhibit superoxide (SO) generation (53.5 ± 2.1%) in macrophages. High polyphenolic content (193 µg gallic acid/mL) was determined in the sap. The FT-IR spectrum of NFCIS revealed the presence of several phytochemicals indicate its pharmaceutical and nutritional value. Cisplatin-induced hike in urea, creatinine and lipid peroxidation was significantly decreased to 65.16, 87.74 and 53.41% by NFCIS, respectively. Hb (42.37%) and total count (72.81%) were also found to be increased. Additionally, the activity of antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase and reduced glutathione was enhanced to 53.06, 40, 52.22 and 38.49%, respectively. Results indicate that NFCIS effectively alleviates cisplatin-mediated renal toxicity by its antioxidant activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The present study was conducted to examine antidiabetic effects of Artemisia absinthium ethanolic extract [A. absinthium] and to investigate its effects on oxidative stress markers and the expression of TLR4, S100A4, Bax and Bcl-2 genes in the kidney of STZ-induced diabetic rats. Methods: Thirty six rats (weight 200–250 g) were randomly divided into diabetes and control groups. Induction of diabetes was performed using STZ (55 mg/kg.bw). Biochemical parameters and oxidative stress markers (SOD and MDA) were measured using spectrophotometry after 60 days of treatment. The expression of TLR4, S100A4, Bax and Bcl-2 were analyzed by real-time PCR. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Bonferroni post hoc test were used to compare the data. Results: Diabetes significantly impairs the serum fasting blood glucose (FBG), lipid profile, urea, creatinine and albumin. At the end of treatment with A. absinthium extract, these parameters were close to the normal range. The results showed that the A. absinthium extract significantly decreased the kidney expression of TLR4, S100A4, Bax and increased the expression of Bcl-2 and improved oxidative stress markers (SOD and MDA) in the kidney tissues of treated rats. Also, all of these beneficial effects of the A. absinthium were dose-dependent. Conclusions: The extract of A. absinthium possesses antidiabetic effects. A. absinthium decreased the expression of TLR4, S100A4, Bax and increased the expression of Bcl-2 and improved oxidative stress. Therefore, this herbal extract can be used as an adjuvant treatment for diabetic complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The fractions of Corchorus olitorius leaf (COLF) were evaluated against oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis in isoproterenol (ISO)-induced myocardial injury (MI) Wistar rats. Methods: The n-hexane, dichloromethane, ethylacetate and ethanol fractions were obtained from COLF extract. Male Wistar strains were randomly grouped into 11 groups (n = 6 in each group), which comprises normal control group, MI control group, 4 fraction groups with two doses (50 and 100 mg/kg) and enalapril (10 mg/kg). The sera were obtained for biochemical studies like AOPP (advance oxidized protein product), CRP (C-reactive protein), LDH (lactate dehydrogenase), CKMB (creatine kinase-MB) and myocardial tissue obtained for GSH, p65NFkB, bax, bcl2, p53 and p65NFkB assays. Results: The subcutaneous administration of ISO increased the serum level of CRP, LDH and CKMB significantly (p < 0.05) and decreased serum AOPP, tissue GSH and p65NFkB (p < 0.05) in the infarction control rats. Pretreatment with COLF and enalapril increased the tissue GSH and p65NFkB levels (p < 0.05) and significantly reduced serum CRP, AOPP, LDH and CKMB. The dichloromethane fraction (CODCM) being the most active was chosen to evaluate the anti-apoptotic effect. CODCM (50 and 100 mg/kg) and enalapril showed a significant (p < 0.05) effect through severe expression of p65NFkB, which correlates with increased bcl2 protein expression, decreased bax protein and p53 expression. Gas chromatography mass spectrometry revealed the presence of 26 compounds in CODCM. Conclusions: From the present study, COLF protected the myocardial tissue against ischemic injury in rats probably via the p65NFkB-dependent anti-apoptotic pathway and attenuation of pro-inflammatory marker level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: There is an association between diabetes and liver disorders. Oxidative stress plays a crucial role in the pathology of hepatic abnormalities in diabetes. In this study, the effect of Tropisetron on the oxidative damage and histological alterations in the liver of type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM) were evaluated. Methods: Thiry-five male Wistar rats were randomly divided into five experimental groups (n = 7): control (C), tropisetron (T), diabetes (D), diabetes + tropisetron (D + T) and diabetes + glibenclamide (D + G). A single injection of streptozotocin (STZ, 50 mg/kg; i.p) was used to induce diabetes. Tropisetron (3 mg/kg; i.p), as a 5-HT3 receptor antagonist and glibenclamide (1 mg/kg; i.p), as a positive control were given once daily for 2 weeks. Finally, animals were euthanized and liver samples were obtained for histopathological examination and biochemical measurements including malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) levels. Results: There is a significant increase in MDA (p < 0.001) level and a significant decrease (p < 0.001) in SOD and GPx contents in diabetic animals. Tropisetron attenuated MDA levels (p < 0.001) and enhanced SOD (p < 0.05) and GPx (p < 0.01) activities accompanied by histopathological improvement in the diabetes liver. Similar results were achieved in the rats treated with the standard drug, namely: glibenclamide. Conclusions: Our findings indicate that tropisetron mitigates liver damage in the diabetes rats in part by attenuation of oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The adverse effects of methotrexate (MTX) mainly hepatotoxicity restrict its clinical use. This study was designed to investigate the protective effects of saffron (Crocus sativus) (CS) extract on MTX-induced hepatotoxicity. Methods: Twenty-eight male Wistar rats randomly divided into four equal groups. Except for control, all groups received a single intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of MTX on the 3rd day of study. The CS extract was given (80 mg/kg i.p.) to rats 3 days before MTX and continued for the next 7 days (Pre&Post-CS group) or administrated after MTX injection and lasted for 7 days (Post-CS group). On the 11th day, all rats were sacrificed and their plasma levels of liver enzymes including aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were determined. Also, liver histopathology and hepatic levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO) and super oxidase dismutase (SOD) were evaluated. Results: The results showed that MTX significantly incremented plasma levels of AST, ALT, ALP and LDH (all p<0.001) and hepatic MDA and NO levels; whereas, decreased SOD activity. Histological alterations such as early fatty changes were evident in the MTX group. Administration of CS extract at both methods could ameliorate liver enzyme elevation, oxidative/nitrosative stresses and morphological alterations of the liver. Pre-and-post treatment with CS extract showed better protective effects than only post-treatment. Conclusion: The present findings provide showing CS could effectively alleviate MTX-induced hepatotoxicity in rats. Further investigations are recommended to determine the exact mechanisms underlying the hepatoprotective potential of saffron. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Depression is a psychiatric disease condition and the chronic mild stress (CMS) model is a well-known and valuable animal model of depression. Geranium oil and anise oil were chosen for such a study. The aim of this research was to establish the geranium oil and anise oil effect to ameliorate CMS-related symptoms. Methods: This research included 80 male albino rats each group of 10 rats and the animals were divided into two major groups: normal and CMS. The normal group was subdivided into four (control, geranium oil, anise oil and venlafaxine drug) subgroups treated orally with saline, geranium oil, anise oil and venlafaxine drug, respectively, for 4 weeks. The CMS group was subdivided into four (CMS without any treatment, CMS + geranium oil, CMS + anise oil and CMS + venlafaxine drug) subgroups treated orally with geranium oil, anise oil and venlafaxine drug, respectively, for 4 weeks. Results: The sucrose consumption in sucrose preference test, the distance traveled test and center square entries test were decreased, while center square duration test, immobility time in tail suspension test and floating time in forced swimming test were increased in CMS. The superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione-S-transferase, glutathione reductase and catalase levels decreased but malondialdehyde and nitric oxide levels increased in brain cerebral cortex and hippocampus areas in CMS. The oral intake of geranium oil and anise oil pushes all these parameters to approach the control levels. These results were supported by histopathological investigations of both brain cerebral cortex and hippocampus tissues. Conclusions: Geranium oil and anise oil ameliorate CMS-related symptoms and this effect were related to the antioxidant effects of oils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study sought to determine the in vitro antioxidant, anti-monoamine oxidase and anticholinesterase properties of extracts (aqueous and alkaloid) of two tropical vegetables from Solanum spp- African eggplant (Solanum macrocarpon L) and black nightshade (Solanum nigrum L) as indices of their neuroprotective properties. Methods: Both aqueous and alkaloid extracts of African eggplant (AE) and black nightshade (BN) were prepared by solvent extraction according to standard methods. Thereafter, the inhibitory effects of the extracts on monoamine oxidase (MAO) and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activities, as well as their free radical-scavenging and reducing abilities were assessed. Also, phytochemical analysis for phenols, flavonoids, and alkaloids were carried out. Results: The results showed that the extracts inhibited MAO and AChE activities dose dependently, with aqueous extracts showing significantly higher MAO inhibition that the alkaloid extracts from both samples, but in all, BN showed higher MAO inhibitory effect compared to AE; the reverse was however, observed for AChE inhibition. Furthermore, the aqueous extracts showed significantly higher antioxidant properties than the alkaloid extracts, while BN had higher antioxidant properties compared to AN. The phytochemical analysis also showed that BN had significantly higher amount of phenols, flavonoids, and alkaloids than AE. Conclusions: The anti-monoamine oxidase, anticholinesterase, and antioxidant properties exhibited by extracts from both samples could contribute to their neuroprotective abilities. Thus, these vegetables can be potential sources of functional foods and nutraceuticals in the management of neurodegenerative diseases, especially in the tropics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Polyphenols are known because of their phytochemical constituents having antioxidative properties. In this regard, grape juice is highly enriched with polyphenolic constituents, and its supplementation has been known to improve many health and age-associated diseases and risk factors. Our study was entirely dedicated to evaluating the positive effects of grape juice on young and old rats' erythrocytes and plasma. Methods: Young (4 months) and old (24 months) male Wistar rats were given an oral dose of grape juice for 28 days. They were grouped into four categories (n = 6): Group I: young control rats; Group II: young grape juice treated rats; Group III: old control rats; Group IV: old treated rats. The treated groups were administered with 10 μL/g of grape juice according to body weight. The following biomarkers of antioxidant defense were measured: ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP), reactive oxygen species (ROS), plasma membrane redox system (PMRS), glutathione (GSH), osmotic fragility, and the decrease in lipid peroxidation measured in terms of malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. Results: A significant increase (p<0.05) in antioxidant levels of FRAP, PMRS, and GSH and a significant decrease (p<0.05) in oxidized products such as ROS and MDA were seen in the treated rats in comparison to the controls. The decrease in ROS and rise in FRAP and PMRS levels suggest the ability of grape juice to combat oxidative stress effectively. Conclusion: We propose the role of grape juice as a potent antioxidant because of its easy bioavailability and its role in combating stress. Our results also approve grape juice as a possible antiaging agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Garcinia kola (GK) stem bark, Uvaria chamae (UC) root, and Olax subscorpioidea (OS) root are components of various indigenous/traditional anticancer regimens. It is, therefore, possible that they might combat oxidative stress and impair cellular proliferation linked to carcinogenesis. In this study, we investigated the antioxidative, mito-depressive, and DNA-damaging activities of the three plant extracts in order to provide further mechanistic insights into their potential anticancer roles in documented cancer remedies that include them. Antioxidative properties were investigated in the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and nitric oxide (NO) radical scavenging assays and an animal model of drug (cisplatin)-induced oxidative stress. The Allium cepa assay and the single cell gel electrophoresis (SCGE) assay were used to assess mito-depressive and DNA-damaging activities. GK and OS showed significantly higher antioxidant activities in the DPPH assay than ascorbic acid; OS had the lowest IC50 of the three plants in the NO assay, comparable to that of ascorbic acid. Pretreatment with the extracts produced an ameliorative and protective effect against the cisplatin-induced oxidative stress as shown by inhibition of lipid peroxidation and improved or restored reduced glutathione and superoxide dismutase levels. In the Allium test, the three extracts produced significant decreases in root growth and also significant cytotoxicity as evidenced by decreased mitotic index. Each of the extracts also showed significantly increased tail DNA (%) in the SCGE assay, indicating the significant DNA-damaging effect. Taken together, this study demonstrates the possible chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic potentials of the three study extracts, which may explain the roles of their source plants in traditional remedies in the therapy of cancers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The physiological functions of the testis and spleen can be affected through several cellular and molecular mechanisms such as the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that causes oxidative stress. This study aimed at investigating the protective effect of catechin, quercetin, and taxifolin in rotenone-induced testicular and splenetic toxicity. Methods: Male Wistar rats were administered with 1.5 mg/kg rotenone (s.c.) for 10 days followed by post-treatment with catechin (5, 10, or 20 mg/kg), quercetin (5, 10, or 20 mg/kg), and taxifolin (0.25, 0.5, or 1.0 mg/kg) for 3 days (s.c.), followed by estimation of biochemical markers of oxidative stress, inflammatory activities, and tissue damage in testes and spleen. Results: Exposure of rats to rotenone caused reduced body weight gain, increased organ weight, decreased glutathione level and activities of glutathione transferase and superoxide dismutase, enhanced lipid peroxidation, and increased activities of prooxidant/proinflammatory enzymes and lactate dehydrogenase, which were mitigated by post-treatment with flavonoids. In general, quercetin and taxifolin showed better activity than catechin. Conclusions: Catechin, quercetin, and taxifolin ameliorated rotenone-induced weight disturbances and oxidative damage in rats, indicating their potential relevance in toxicant and pesticide-induced tissue injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In this study, Grewia optiva Drummond ex Burret root extracts were assessed for use as a remedy for oxidative stress, diabetes mellitus and neurological disorders. Methods: The antioxidative potentials of the extracts were determined using DPPH and ABTS assays, whereas their enzyme inhibitory potentials were determined against acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), α-glucosidase and α-amylase. In the in vivo experiments, methanol extract was orally administered to mice (n = 5) at four doses of 200, 300, 400 and 500 mg kg–1 for 30 days and its effect on glucose, triglycerides, total cholesterol, etc. were investigated. Results: The highest free radical scavenging activities against DPPH and ABTS radicals were recorded for the methanol and ethyl acetate extracts, and their respective IC50 values were 75 and 88 μg/mL. In addition, these two fractions were highly active in inhibiting AChE and BChE, with IC50 values of 120 and 185 μg/mL, respectively. Moderate inhibition (μg/mL) was recorded against α-glucosidase (69.02 ± 1.02 and 64.29 ± 2.41) and α-amylase (65.12 ± 2.02 and 63.29 ± 1.41) and these were comparable to the inhibitory activities exhibited by the standard, acarbose. All the extracts showed high phenolic and flavonoid contents, which correlated with their antioxidant, anticholinesterase, α-glucosidase and α-amylase activities. The phenolic compounds in the crude extract and fractions were determined using the standard HPLC method and bioactive compounds, namely, morin, ellagic acid, kaempferol-3-(p-coumaroyl-diglucoside)-7-glucoside, apigenin-7-O-rutinoside, quercetin-3-(caffeoyl-diglucoside)-7-glucoside, etc., which were detected at various retention times. Significant decrease in cholesterol, triglyceride and blood glucose levels were observed. Conclusion: G. optiva is a good source of antioxidants and other phytochemicals, some of which possess anticholinesterase, anti-glucosidase, and anti-amylase activities, and can be used to treat different health conditions such as oxidative stress, neurological disorders, and diabetes mellitus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The present study was conducted to examine the antidiabetic effects of Scrophularia striata ethanolic extract and to evaluate its effects on oxidative stress markers and RAGE and S100A8 gene expressions in the kidney of type 1 diabetic rats. Methods: A total of 36 rats (weight 200–250 g) were randomly assigned into six groups as follows: Cnt, Cnt + S. striata 100, and Cnt + S. striata 200 that received normal saline, 100 mg/kg bw, and 200 mg/kg bw of ethanol extract of S. striata, respectively; and group Dibt, Dibt + S. striata 100, and Dibt + S. striata 200 that received normal saline, 100 mg/kg bw, and 200 mg/kg bw of ethanol extract of S. striata, respectively. Type 1 diabetes was induced in rats by a single injection of streptozotocin (55 mg/kg bw). After 60 days of treatment, biochemical factors and oxidative stress markers (superoxide dismutase [SOD] and malondialdehyde [MDA]) were measured using spectrophotometric methods. RAGE and S100A8 gene expressions were analyzed using real-time polymerase chain reaction. Results: Diabetes significantly impairs serum and urine fasting blood glucose (FBG), lipid profile, creatinine, urea, and albumin parameters. After the treatment with S. striata extract, these parameters are close to the normal range. It was shown that the S. striata extract significantly decreased the kidney expression levels of RAGE and S100A8 genes and improved oxidative stress markers (SOD and MDA) in the kidney tissues when compared with the diabetic control group. It was also found that the beneficial effects of the S. striata were dose dependent. Conclusions: The ethanolic extract of S. striata has beneficial antidiabetic effects. Moreover, by reducing RAGE and S100A8 gene expressions and by improving oxidative stress, S. striata might be used as adjuvant treatment for diabetic complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Commelina benghalensis Linn. (Family: Commelinaceae) is a common weed available in Bangladesh with several uses in traditional medicine. However, the chemical profile of this medicinal plant is scarce in relation to its medicinal uses. The aerial parts of this plant have been investigated for the isolation of secondary metabolites and evaluation of the biological activities. Methods: Major phytochemical groups were analyzed using chromogenic reagents, whereas n-hexane soluble fractionates of the methanol extract were subjected to 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopic analysis. The antioxidant property of the obtained compounds was evaluated using 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH). Results: Dammara-12-en-3-one (CB-1), stigmasterol (CB-2) and 3 (2,3,4,5,6-pentahydroxy)-cinnamoyl dammara-12-ene (CB-3) were isolated from the n-hexane fractionate of methanol extract of C. benghalensis. In the study of DPPH radical scavenging activity, IC50 values were predicted to be 790.18, 4186.94 and 2001.16 µg/mL for CB-1, CB-2 and CB-3, respectively, whereas standard ascorbic acid showed IC50 at 1.26 µg/mL. Conclusions: Two new dammarane-type triterpene (CB-1 and CB-3) and one phytosterol (CB-2) were identified in C. benghalensis with mild antioxidant property. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crack cocaine is the crystal form of cocaine and can be smoked, and rapidly absorbed, and, in part for this reason, is potently addictive. It is hypothesized that crack cocaine is able to induce important changes in different tissues and organs, and thus dramatically alter behavior. Nevertheless, which alterations in the central nervous system are related to its frequent use is still a matter of discussion. The present study is a literature review of articles published between the years 2008 and 2018 on the theme 'crack cocaine and brain' available in PUBMED, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Google scholar databases. The results show that the use of crack cocaine induces important behavioral, neuroanatomical, and biochemical alterations. The main behavioral sequelae include cognitive and emotional changes, such as increased anxiety and depressive symptoms, attention and memory deficits, and hyperactivity. Among the neurobiological alterations are reductions in the activity of the prefrontal, anterior cingulate cortex, and nucleus accumbens. Molecular changes include decreases in neurotrophic factors and increases in oxidative stress and inflammatory cytokines, which may be responsible for the morphological alterations observed. It is also hypothesized that these neurobiological changes might explain the emotional and cognitive dysfunctions experienced by crack cocaine addicts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Curcuma amada is the most popular traditional medicine in India for the treatment of diabetes. The present study aimed to focus the antidiabetic and antioxidative activity of C. amada through the analysis of biochemical and genomic levels in a dose-dependent manner in streptozotocin-induced male adult rat. Method: Streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats were administered orally with hydro-methanolic extract of C. amada at the dose of 10, 20, 40 and 80 mg/100 g body weight of rats for 28 days. The antidiabetic and antioxidative efficacy of the extract on glycemic, enzymatic, genomic and histological sensors along with toxicity study was investigated. Results: The result showed a significant antidiabetic and antioxidative effect of the extract at dose-dependent manner. The significant recovery of fasting blood glucose level, serum insulin, activity of carbohydrate metabolic enzymes and antioxidative enzymes in extract-treated diabetic group as compared to untreated diabetic group were noted. After the extract treatment, the size of pancreatic islet and cell population densities were significantly increased. Activities of glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase and glutamate pyruvate transaminase in liver were significantly recovered along with the correction of Bax and Bcl-2 gene expression in hepatic tissue after the extract treatment in diabetic rats in respect to untreated diabetic group. Out of all the doses, the significant effects were noted at the dose of 20 mg/100 g body weight which has been considered as threshold dose in the concern. Conclusion: It may be concluded that the significant and corrective effect in most of the sensors was noted at the minimum dose of 20 mg/100 g body weight of hydro-methanolic extract of C. amada without producing any toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Diazinon (DZN) causes serious liver damage in both humans and animals. In the present study, the hepatoprotective effects of Cynara scolymus L. leaf extract against DZN-induced liver injury were examined. Methods: Forty male rats were divided into five groups. The control group received a normal diet. The DZN group received DZN only (25 mg/kg, po). The DZN + Syl group received DZN (25 mg/kg, po) and silymarin (Syl) (50 mg/kg, po). The DZN + Art group received DZN (25 mg/kg, po) and artichoke (Art) leaf extract (1500 mg/kg, po). The Art group received Art leaf extract only (1500 mg/kg, po). After 15 days, serum tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), lipid profile, protein carbonyl content, serum and hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA), hepatic TNF-α gene expression, hepatic catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and vitamin C (Vit C) were measured and histopathological examination was performed. Results: DZN caused a significant elevation in serum ALP, AST, ALT, MDA, TNF-α, protein carbonyl, hepatic MDA, and TNF-α gene expression in the DZN group as opposed to the control group. Also, DZN led to the reduction of hepatic CAT, SOD, and Vit C in the DZN group relative to the control group. The administration of Art extract resulted in not only a significant reduction in serum ALP, AST, ALT, MDA, TNF-α, and protein carbonyl but also an improvement of liver histopathological changes and hepatic CAT and SOD activities as opposed to the DZN group. Conclusions: This study confirmed that Art leaf extract has liver protective effects and causes downregulation of oxidative stress in acute DZN-induced liver injury in rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Short-term memory impairment is a neurodegenerative disease associated with oxidative stress. Bryophyllum pinnatum (Lam.) Oken of the family Crassulaceae is traditionally used in the treatment of diseases, such as cough, wounds, and kidney diseases. This study evaluates the effect of the aqueous extract of B. pinnatum (AEBP) leaves on acetylcholinesterase activity in carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced short-term memory impairment in rats. Methods: Thirty male Wistar albino rats were used in this study and were divided into six groups (n=5). Group I served as control, group II rats were induced with CCl4, while groups III–V animals were pretreated with silymarin (25 mg/kg body weight), 25 and 50 mg/kg body weight AEBP leaves, respectively, once daily by oral gavage for 14 days prior to a single intraperitoneal injection of CCl4. Animals in group VI received 50 mg/kg body weight AEBP only by oral gavage. Results: Administration of carbon tetrachloride significantly increased (p<0.05) spontaneous alternation and locomotor function in rats when compared with the control group. Also, the levels of acetylcholinesterase, adenosine deaminase, and malondialdehyde were increased in CCl4-administered rats, with reduction in both enzymatic and nonenzymatic antioxidant levels. However, pretreatment of rats with AEBP leaves, at tested doses, prevented these changes. Conclusions: The increased antioxidant status and the inhibition of acetylcholinesterase activity show that AEBP leaves improve learning memory and stabilizes memory impairment caused by CCl4. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]