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Oxidative stress is related to several metabolic diseases, including hyperlipidemia. Previous studies have shown the antioxidant properties of Zingiber cassumunar rhizomes and Guazuma ulmifolia leaves. The objective of this study was to see how Z. cassumunar rhizomes, G. ulmifolia leaves extracts, and their combinations affect antihyperlipidemic and hepatoprotective activity in a high-fat diet-fed (HFD) rat. The water extract of Z. cassumunar rhizomes and G. ulmifolia leaves was evaporated in a freeze dryer to produce dry extracts. The Wistar rats were assigned into six groups at random: normal, positive, negative, Z. cassumunar rhizome extract at 400 mg/kg BW (ZC), G. ulmifolia leaf extract at 50 mg/kg BW (GU), and the combination of Z. cassumunar rhizome extract and G. ulmifolia leaf extract at (350+50) mg/kg BW (ZC+GU). The rats were fed HFD for 28 days, and the treatment groups also received the extracts for the last 14 days. The study revealed that ZC, GU, and ZC+GU significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the levels of cholesterol and triglyceride when compared to the negative control. These treatments also showed a hepatoprotective effect by reducing the serum glutamic pyruvate transaminase (SGPT) and histopathological observation. The conclusion of the study showed that ZC, GU, and ZC+GU play an essential role in their antihyperlipidemic and hepatoprotective activities.

The objective of this study is to access the effect of purple sweet potato leaf (PSPL) extract on diabetic retinopathy (DR) of streptozotocin (STZ)-induced male Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats. In this study, rats were injected intraperitoneally with a single dose of 60 mg/kg STZ, and diabetes was confirmed on day 7. Rats were further divided into a few groups, which were then orally administered with one of the following treatments: 25 mg/kg of gliclazide (D25G), 200 mg/kg of PSPL extract (DT 200), and 400 mg/kg of PSPL extract (DT 400). However, the normal control (NS) and control group for diabetic (DNS) were given normal saline (NS) for 12 weeks. The results show that the treated group demonstrated a reduction in serum oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) levels of DT 200 and DT 400, and an increase in the serum and retinal insulin levels, and restored oxidative stress markers in serum and retina on week 12. The PSPL extract exhibited protective effects in maintaining the kidney, liver, retina, and pancreas architecture in 400 mg/kg compared to the 200 mg/kg treated group and D25G, thereby restoring fully transparent lenses in diabetes-induced rats. In conclusion, 400 mg/kg PSPL is the most effective dose for the amelioration of STZ-induced DR pathology in male SD rats.

Obesity is a chronic low-grade inflammatory condition that induces the generation of oxidative stress and inflammation. This oxidative stress and inflammation stimulate brain atrophy and some morphological changes in the brain that eventually result in cognitive impairments. However, there is no exact study that has summarized the role of oxidative stress and inflammation in obesity and its impact on cognitive impairments. Thus, the objective of this review is to recapitulate the current role of oxidative stress and inflammation in cognitive decline based on in vivo evidence. A comprehensive search was performed in Nature, Medline and Ovid, ScienceDirect, and PubMed, and the search was limited to the past 10 years of publication. From the search, we identified 27 articles to be further reviewed. The outcome of this study indicates that a greater amount of fat stored in individual adipocytes in obesity induces the formation of reactive oxygen species and inflammation. This will lead to the generation of oxidative stress, which may cause morphological changes in the brain, suppress the endogenous antioxidant system, and promote neuroinflammation and, eventually, neuronal apoptosis. This will impair the normal function of the brain and specific regions that are involved in learning, as well as memory. This shows that obesity has a strong positive correlation with cognitive impairments. Hence, this review summarizes the mechanism of oxidative stress and inflammation that induce memory loss based on animal model evidence. In conclusion, this review may serve as an insight into therapeutic development focusing on oxidative stress and inflammatory pathways to manage an obesity-induced cognitive decline in the future.

Consumption of high-fat foods can induce the formation of free radicals and trigger oxidative stress. The leave of sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) has been reported to be a potent antioxidant in vitro. This study investigates the effect of ethanol extract of purple sweet potato leaves on the endogenous antioxidant activity in hyperlipidemic rats. The sweet potato leaves were oven-dried and extracted using 70% ethanol in a ratio of 1:7 w/v for 24 h, followed by vacuum evaporation. The five groups of test animals were created: normal control-which was given a standard diet, negative control (high-fat diet (HFD) for 14 days), and three treated groups which treated with HFD for 14 days and start for the same time treated with sweet potato leaves extract (SPLE) at the doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg BW for 28 days. The antioxidant activity was measured from liver homogenate on the 29th day. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities, and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were quantified using spectrophotometry. The high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis found rutin as a major chemical content of the SPLE. HFD significantly (p<0.05) decreased the activity of endogenous antioxidants (SOD, CAT, and GSH-Px) and increased the MDA level significantly (p<0.05) compared with the normal group. On the contrary, the treatment with the SPLE significantly (p<0.05) increased the activity of SOD, CAT, and GSH-Px and lowered MDA levels significantly (p<0.05) in a dose-dependent manner compared to the negative control. SPLE increase the activities of endogenous enzymatic antioxidants in hyperlipidemic rats.

Vitrification is an important tool to store surplus embryos in assisted reproductive technology (ART). However, vitrification increases oxidative damage and results in decreased viability. Studies have reported that L-glutathione (GSH) supplementation improves the preimplantation development of murine embryos. Glutathione constitutes the major non-protein sulphydryl compound in mammalian cells, which confers protection against oxidative damage. However, the effect of GSH supplementation on embryonic vitrification outcomes has yet to be reported. This study aims to determine whether GSH supplementation in culture media improves in vitro culture and vitrification outcomes, as observed through embryo morphology and preimplantation development. Female BALB/c mice aged 6–8 weeks were superovulated through an intraperitoneal injection of 10 IU of pregnant mare serum gonadotrophin (PMSG), followed by 10 IU of human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) 48 h later. The mated mice were euthanized by cervical dislocation 48 h after hCG to harvest embryos. Two-cell embryos were randomly assigned to be cultured in either Group 1 (GSH-free medium), Group 2 (GSH-free medium with vitrification), Group 3 (0.01 mM GSH-supplemented medium), or Group 4 (0.01 mM GSH-supplemented medium with vitrification). Non-vitrified (Groups 1 and 3) and vitrified (Groups 2 and 4) embryos were observed for morphological quality and preimplantation development at 24, 48, 72, and 96 h. In the non-vitrified groups, there were significant increases in the number of Grade-1 blastocysts in GSH cultures (p < 0.05). Similarly, in the vitrified groups, GSH supplementation was also seen to significantly increase blastocyst formation. Exogenous GSH supplementation resulted in a significant increase in intracellular GSH, a release of cytochrome c from mitochondria, and a parallel decrease in intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in vitrified eight-cell embryos (p < 0.05). GSH supplementation was shown to u

Elateriospermum tapos (E. tapos) is a natural tropical plant that possess a wide range of health benefits. Recent discovery proves that E. tapos extract is able to reduce weight, increase cognitive performance, and ameliorate anxiety and stress hormone. However, this extraction has not been incorporated into yoghurt, and no toxicity studies have been done previously to prove its safety. Thus, this study was aimed to formulate the ethanolic extracted E. tapos into yoghurt and access the toxicological effects on rodents. Forty female Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were used in this study and force fed with either one of the following doses of 250, 500, 1000, or 2000 mg/kg, while the control group received normal saline. The nutritional analysis result showed that the newly formulated yoghurt comprised 328 kJ of energy per 100 mL of servings, 3.6 g of fats, 8.2 g of carbohydrates, 2.7 g of total protein, and 1.2 g of fibre. The peak intensity of Lactobacillus species was observed at 1.6 × 105 CFU/g with a titratable acidity as lactic acid of 0.432 CFU/g, indicating the ability of the formulated yoghurt in stimulating the growth of Lactobacilli. In the experimental study, the E. tapos yoghurt in a single dose (2000 mg/kg) did not show any treatment related to toxicity in any of the rats observed in an additional 14 days. There were no changes in body weight, food and water intake, plasma biochemistry (ALT, AST, ALP, and creatinine), haematological products, and organ weights of the treated groups compared to the subacute control groups. Histological examination of all organs including liver, heart, and kidney were comparable to the control groups. In toto, oral consumptions of E. tapos yoghurt did not induce any adverse effects on rodents.

BPA is one of the most common endocrine disruptors that is widely being manufactured daily nationwide. Although scientific evidence supports claims of negative effects of BPA on humans, there is also evidence suggesting that a low level of BPA is safe. However, numerous in vivo trials contraindicate with this claim and there is a high possibility of BPA exposure could lead to obesity. It has been speculated that this does not stop with the exposed subjects only, but may also cause transgenerational effects. Direct disruption of endocrine regulation, neuroimmune and signaling pathways, as well as gut microbiata, has been identified to be interrupted by BPA exposure, leading to overweight or obesity. In these instances, cardiovascular complications are one of the primary notable clinical signs. In regard to this claim, this review paper discusses the role of BPA on obesity in the perspective of endocrine disruptions and possible cardiovascular complications that may arise due to BPA. Thus, the aim of this review is to outline the changes in gut microbiota and neuroimmune or signaling mechanisms involved in obesity in relation to BPA. To identify potentially relevant articles, a depth search was done on the databases Nature, PubMed, Wiley Online Library, and Medline & Ovid from the past 5 years. According to Boolean operator guideline, selected keywords such as (1) BPA OR environmental chemical AND fat OR LDL OR obese AND transgenerational effects or phenocopy (2) Endocrine disruptors OR chemical AND lipodystrophy AND phenocopy (3) Lipid profile OR weight changes AND cardiovascular effect (4) BPA AND neuroimmune OR gene signaling, were used as search terms. Upon screening, 11 articles were finalized to be further reviewed and data extraction tables containing information on (1) the type of animal model (2) duration and dosage of BPA exposure (3) changes in the lipid profile or weight (4) genes, signaling mechanism, or any neuroimmune signal involved, and (5) transgener

Collagen (Col) and gelatin are most extensively used in various fields, particularly in pharmaceuticals and therapeutics. Numerous researchers have proven that they are highly biocompatible to human tissues, exhibit low antigenicity and are easy to degrade. Despite their different sources both Col and gelatin have almost the same effects when it comes to wound healing mechanisms. Considering this, the bioactivity and biological effects of both Col and gelatin have been, and are being, constantly investigated through in vitro and in vivo assays to obtain maximum outcomes in the future. With regard to their proven nutritional values as sources of protein, Col and gelatin products exert various possible biological activities on cells in the extracellular matrix (ECM). In addition, a vast number of novel Col and gelatin applications have been discovered. This review compared Col and gelatin in terms of their structures, sources of derivatives, physicochemical properties, results of in vitro and in vivo studies, their roles in wound healing and the current challenges in wound healing. Thus, this review provides the current insights and the latest discoveries on both Col and gelatin in their wound healing mechanisms.

Usage of 3D model in medical education is very important in this era as part of 21st century teaching method. Application of 3D printing model in medical education helps to improve student spatial visualization skill and also will increase their interest in difficult topic or subject specifically in the science-based issue. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of using a 3D rat model for teaching blood withdrawal techniques among undergraduate students. Workshop of usage of 3D model rat was conducted among all students. Students were exposure to classical teaching method of blood withdrawal and follow by workshop using 3D rat model. A set of questionnaire was given to students before and after usage of 3D- printed rat model. Data collected used a questionnaire consisting of socio-demographic, pre and post- test question and assessment towards 3D models. A total of 117 participants were tested. 3D-printed rat model was used as part of the paired sample t-test. The result supported the hypothesis that the 3D- printed rat model in teaching blood withdrawal techniques is more effective compared to the using classical teaching method in the classroom (p<0.05). Study also showed that students satisfy with usage of 3D model for teaching blood withdrawal techniques. This study further demonstrated the 3D print rat model is beneficial for interactive education and enriching student learning capacity.

Context: Leaves of Muntingia calabura (Elaeocarpaceae) are widely used in traditional medical practice; scientific findings show various pharmacological activities. However, its anticancer effect has not been investigated thoroughly yet. Objective: The objective of this study is to study the chemoprevention effects of MEMCL against azoxymethane (AOM)-induced colon cancer and to examine the involvement of endogenous antioxidants. Materials and methods: Male Sprague–Dawley rats, divided into five groups (n = 7), were injected intraperitoneally once weekly for 2 weeks with 15 mg/kg AOM, except for the normal group (received saline). The animals were then administered orally for 8 weeks with 8% Tween-80 (vehicle; normal group), 8% Tween-80 (vehicle; cancer group) or, 50, 250 or 500 mg/kg MEMC. After treatments, colon samples were collected from each rat for the histopathological analysis, quantification of aberrant crypt foci formed and determination of colon antioxidant levels. MEMC was also subjected to HPLC analysis. Results: The extract exerted significant (p < 0.05): (i) anti-carcinogenesis activity, indicated by a decrease in the total aberrant crypt formation; (ii) antioxidant activity by increasing the colon tissue antioxidant markers [i.e., superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione (GSH)] and reducing the oxidant marker (i.e., malonaldehyde (MDA) levels in comparison with the cancer group. HPLC analysis demonstrated the presence of rutin. Discussion and conclusions: Muntingia calabura leaves exert anticancer effect against AOM-induced colon cancer possibly via the action of flavonoids on the colon tissue antioxidant activity.

Context: Acanthopanax trifoliatus is a ginseng-like plant, which has been widely used to treat various diseases including inflammatory-related diseases. Aims: The present study has been designed to investigate the anti-inflammatory and anti-hyperalgesic effects of various fractions of Acanthopanax trifoliatus leaves ethanolic extract in rats. Materials and Methods: Anti-inflammatory activity was studied by using carrageenan-induced edema on rat paw whilst anti-hyperalgesic was assessed by using carrageenan-evoked thermal hyperalgesia on plantar test. Statistical Analysis Used: Data were analyzed using Student t-test to compare with control.Multiple comparisons for difference between control and extract-treated groups were evaluated by Tukey HSD (Honestly Significant Difference) test. P values less than 0.05 (P < 0.05) is considered significant. Results: Among three different fractions i.e., hexane, dichloromethane, and methanol tested, methanolic fraction displayed the most potent fraction amongst those three. It gave significant anti-inflammatory effect at highest dose, 500 mg/kg, with 77.24% of inhibition. Whilst for anti-hyperalgesic activity, methanolic fraction showed the highest efficacy at 375 mg/kg. Administration of methanolic fraction of Acanthopanax trifoliatus inhibited paw edema in a dose- dependent manner. The inhibition for both activities might be due to possible composition of polar compounds, which are flavonoids and phenolics content. Conclusions: Methanol fraction of Acanthopanax trifoliatus leaves has potential effect as anti-inflammatory and anti-hyperalgesia in acute inflammation model.

Melastoma malabathricum L. (Melastomataceae) is one of the 22 species found in the Southeast Asian region, including Malaysia. Considered as native to tropical and temperate Asia and the Pacific Islands, this commonly found small shrub has gained herbal status in the Malay folklore belief as well as the Indian, Chinese, and Indonesian folk medicines. Ethnopharmacologically, the leaves, shoots, barks, seeds, and roots of M. malabathricum have been used to treat diarrhoea, dysentery, hemorrhoids, cuts and wounds, toothache, and stomachache. Scientific findings also revealed the wide pharmacological actions of various parts of M. malabthricum, such as antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory, wound healing, antidiarrheal, cytotoxic, and antioxidant activities. Various types of phytochemical constituents have also been isolated and identifed from different parts of M. malabathricum. Thus, the aim of the present review is to present comprehensive information on ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemical constituents, and pharmacological activities of M. malabathricum.

Labisia pumila or locally known as Kacip Fatimah, is one of the most popular medicinal herb in Malaysia. Anticarcinogenic activity of this medicinal herb however, has not been reported until today. In this paper, the in vivo anticarcinogenic activity of L. pumilaethanol extract on two-stage mouse skin carcinogenesis model is reported. In the present study, we investigated whether L. pumila ethanol extract have an effect on tumor growth in vivo. Therefore, varying doses (25, 50 and 100 mg/kg bwt) of L. pumilaethanol extract were tested on 7, 12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA)/croton oil-induced mouse skin carcinogenesis. At the end of the experiment of 20 weeks, animals in carcinogen control group developed a mean number of 5.70 ± 1.3 skin tumors per tumor-bearing mouse and on the 16th week prompted a tumor incidence of 100%. Animals that have been treated with 25, 50 and 100 mg/kg bwt of L. pumila extract topically for 30 min developed a mean number of 3.60 ± 1.1, 3.20 ± 0.8 and 2.40 ± 0.7 skin tumors per tumor-bearing mouse with tumor incidence of 90, 60 and 50%, respectively. The tumor volume per tumor-bearing mice of carcinogen control animals was 121.03 ± 3.46 mm3, which was significantly (p<0.05) reduced to 92.27 ± 2.68, 69.24 ± 3.93 and 54.24 ± 4.38 mm3 for the animals treated with 25, 50 and 100 mg/kg bwt of L. pumila extract, respectively. In terms of tumor incidence and tumor burden, the highest dose (100 mg/kg bwt) of L. pumila ethanol extract was almost equipotent with curcumin (10 mg/kg bwt). The extract of L. pumila not only decreased the tumor incidence, tumor burden and tumor volume in DMBA/croton oil-induced mice but also delayed the skin tumor growth as compared to carcinogen control group. Further histopathological examination revealed that tumors from animals that have been treated with L. pumila showed intact basement membrane as compared to the tumors from the untreated animals. This finding suggested that L. pumila extract was able to suppress

This study is aimed to evaluate anti-ulcerogenic effect of ethanolic extract of Acanthopanax trifoliatus leaves (EAT) in acute ulcer induced by absolute ethanol and NSAID (diclofenac) in male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats and to determine the possible involvement of either suflhydryl group or nitric oxide group in it's pathway. The result of the preliminary study showed that EAT did not give any ulcerogenic effect in the rat's stomach. For the gastroprotective study, EAT was shown to have substantial gastroprotective effect on the gastric mucosa of SD rats induced by absolute ethanol at dose 300 mg/kg with a tendency for the activity to be comparable to the standard drug, lansoprazole. Whereas for ulcer induced by NSAID (diclofenac), the extract does not seem to have a significant gastroprotective activity at the dosages used. Investigation of the possible mechanism behind the anti-ulcerogenic activity of the EAT was done using L-NAME (a NO synthase inhibitor) and NEM (a sulfhydryl blocker) in ethanol-induced ulcer models pre-treated with EAT at higher dose (500mg/kg). The previous administration of L-NAME did not reduce the anti-ulcerogenic activity of EAT in ethanol induced ulcer model, suggesting that the pharmacological mechanism has no relationship with NO. On the other hand, pre-treatment with NEM reduced the anti-ulcerogenic activity of EAT on ethanol induced-ulcer model. This result suggests that EAT has active substances that increase the mucosal non-protein sulfhydryl groups which contribute.to the extract's gastroprotective effect.