Simvastatin attenuates cisplatin-induced kidney and liver damage in rats

Optimization of the Flavonoid Extraction Process from the Stem and Leaves of Epimedium Brevicornum and Its Effects on Cyclophosphamide-Induced Renal Injury

Cyclophosphamide (CTX) is a broad-spectrum alkylated antitumor drug. It is clinically used in the treatment of a variety of cancers, and renal toxicity is one of the adverse reactions after long-term or repeated use, which not only limits the therapeutic effect of CTX, but also increases the probability of kidney lesions. The total flavonoids of Epimedium stem and leaf (EBF) and Icariin (ICA) are the main medicinal components of Epimedium, and ICA is one of the main active substances in EBF. Modern pharmacological studies have shown that EBF has a variety of biological activities such as improving osteoporosis, promoting cell proliferation, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, etc. However, few studies have been conducted on the nephrotoxicity caused by optimized CTX extraction, and protein-ligand binding has not been involved. This research, through the response surface optimization extraction of EBF, obtained the best extraction conditions: ethanol concentration was 60%, solid-liquid ratio of 25:1, ultrasonic time was about 25 min. Combined with mass spectrometry (MS) analysis, EBF contained ICA, ichopidin A, ichopidin B, ichopidin C, and other components. In this study, we adopted a computational chemistry method called molecular docking, and the results show that Icariin was well bound to the antioxidant target proteins KEAP1 and NRF2, and the anti-inflammatory target proteins COX-2 and NF-κB, with free binding energies of -9.8 kcal/mol, -11.0 kcal/mol, -10.0 kcal/mol, and -8.1 kcal/mol, respectively. To study the protective effect of EBF on the nephrotoxicity of CTX, 40 male Kunming mice (weight 18 ± 22) were injected with CTX (80 mg/kg) for 7 days to establish the nephrotoxicity model and were treated with EBF (50 mg/kg, 100 mg/kg) for 8 days by gavage. After CTX administration, MDA, BUN, Cre, and IL-6 levels in serum increased, MDA increased in kidney, GPT/ALT and IL-6 increased in liver, and IL-6 increased in spleen and was significant ((p < 0.05 or (p < 0.01)). Histopathological observation showed that renal cortex glomerular atrophy necrosis, medullary inflammatory cell infiltration, and other lesions. After administration of EBF, CTX-induced increase in serum level of related indexes was reduced, and MDA in kidney, GPT/ALT and IL-6 in liver, and IL-6 in spleen were increased. At the same time, histopathological findings showed that the necrosis of medullary and corticorenal tubular epithelium was relieved at EBF (50 mg/kg) dose compared with the CTX group, and the glomerular tubular necrosis gradually became normal at EBF (100 mg/kg) dose. Western blot analysis of Keap1 and Nrf2 protein expression in kidney tissue showed that compared with model CTX group, the drug administration group could alleviate the high expression of Keap1 protein and low expression of Nrf2 protein in kidney tissue. Conclusion: After the optimal extraction of total flavonoids from the stems and leaves of Epimedium, the molecular docking technique combined with animal experiments suggested that the effective component of the total flavonoids of Epimedium might activate the Keap1-Nrf2 signaling pathway after treatment to reduce the inflammation and oxidative stress of kidney tissue, so as to reduce kidney damage and improve kidney function. Therefore, EBF may become a new natural protective agent for CTX chemotherapy in the future.

Hepatoprotective effects of Alpinia officinarum rhizome extract on cisplatin-induced hepatotoxicity in rats: A biochemical, histopathological and immunohistochemical study

BACKGROUND

Alpinia officinarum is a member of the ginger family (Zingiberaceae), which is widely cultivated in Asia and traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antihyperlipidemic qualities. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of Alpinia officinarum rhizome extract (AORE) on cisplatin (CP)-induced hepatotoxicity in rats.

METHODS

Forty-four male rats were divided into six groups including the control group, AORE control group, CP control group, and three groups of CP (7 mg/kg dose, on the 10th day) with AORE (at concentrations of 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg, daily for 14 days). After 14 days, the rats' livers were removed and their liver function was assessed using biochemical marker enzymes including serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activities and albumin, total protein, and total bilirubin (T. bilirubin). Oxidative stress was assessed by evaluating malondialdehyde concentration and hepatic superoxide dismutase activity, histopathological and immunohistochemical tests were also conducted.

RESULTS

Results demonstrated that treatment with AORE reduced the toxicity in levels of the hepatic biomarkers in cp-induced groups. AORE treatment decreased oxidative stress and improved histopathological indexes. Furthermore, immunohistochemical (IHC) investigation showed the B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) upsurging and p53 downregulating expression exhibiting the recovery following AORE administration.

CONCLUSION

The founding suggested that AORE administration has positive biochemical, histopathological, and immunohistochemical impacts on the ameliorating of hepatotoxicity in CP-induced rats.

The ameliorative effect of Primula vulgaris on cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats and quantification of its phenolic components using LC-ESI-MS/MS

Cisplatin (CDDP) is an important chemotherapeutic agent, accumulation of which in kidney tissue causes nephrotoxicity and renal failure. The aim of this study was to evaluate, for the first time in the literature, the protective effect of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) extract of Primula vulgaris leaf (PVE) against CDDP-induced nephrotoxicity in rats. The PVE content was characterized using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Nephrotoxicity was induced with a single dose of CDDP (7.5 mg/kg). Thirty female Wistar-Albino rats were divided into five groups (control, DMSO, CDDP (7.5 mg/kg), CDDP + PVE (25 mg/kg), and CDDP + PVE (50 mg/kg)). Biochemical and histopathological analyses were then performed. Rutin, gallic acid, p-coumaric acid and protocatechuic acid were identified as major components of PVE. Total antioxidant status and glutathione (GSH) values increased significantly in the serum samples from the treatment group compared to the CDDP group, while blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, oxidative stress index, malondialdehyde (MDA), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), total oxidant status, and 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) values decreased significantly. GSH levels increased significantly in the treatment group compared to the CDDP group, while TNF-α, caspase-3, 8-OHdG, MDA levels and damage scores decreased significantly. In conclusion, PVE exhibited strong protective effects through its anti-apoptotic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities against nephrotoxicity and oxidative damage caused by CDDP in rats.

Leonotis ocymifolia (Burm.f.) Iwarsson aerial parts aqueous extract mitigates cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity via attenuation of inflammation, and DNA damage

Herein, we explored the protective effect of Leonotis ocymifolia (Burm.f.) Iwarsson aerial parts extract (LO) against cisplatin (CP)-induced nephrotoxicity in rats and profiled their phytocontents. A total of 31 compounds belonging to organic and phenolic acids and their glycosides as well as flavonoids and their O- and C-glycosides were identified through LC-MS/MS. The DPPH and FRAP assays revealed that the extract had powerful antioxidant properties. The in vivo results demonstrated that administering LO extract for 30 days (40 and 80 mg/kg b. w.) significantly improved the altered renal injury markers via reducing creatinine (high dose only) and uric acid levels compared to the Cp-group. The deleterious action of cisplatin on renal oxidative stress markers (GSH, MDA, SOD, and CAT) were also mitigated by LO-pretreatment. The reduction of the inflammatory marker (IL-6), and inhibition of DNA fragmentation, highlighted the prophylactic action of LO in kidney tissue. Molecular docking followed by a 100 ns molecular dynamic simulation analyses revealed that, amongst the 31 identified compounds in LO, chlorogenic and caffeoylmalic acids had the most stable binding to IL-6. The nephroprotective effects were further confirmed by histopathological observations, which showed improvement in ultrastructural changes induced by cisplatin. The observed findings reinforce the conclusion that L. ocymifolia extract exerts nephroprotective properties, which could be related to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Further studies are required to determine the therapeutic doses and the proper administration time.

Lansoprazole protects hepatic cells against cisplatin-induced oxidative stress through the p38 MAPK/ARE/Nrf2 pathway

Lansoprazole, a proton pump inhibitor, can exert antioxidant effects through the induction of the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway, independently of the inhibition of acid secretion in the gastrointestinal tract. Lansoprazole has been reported to provide hepatoprotection in a drug-induced hepatitis animal model through the Nrf2/heme oxygenase-1 (HO1) pathway. We sought to investigate the molecular mechanism of cytoprotection by lansoprazole. An in vitro experimental model was conducted using cultured rat hepatic cells treated with lansoprazole to analyze the expression levels of Nrf2 and its downstream genes, the activity of Nrf2 using luciferase reporter assays, cisplatin-induced cytotoxicity, and signaling pathways involved in Nrf2 activation. Lansoprazole treatment of rat liver epithelial RL34 cells induced transactivation of Nrf2 and the expression of the Nrf2-dependent antioxidant genes encoding HO1, NAD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase-1, and glutathione S-transferase A2. Furthermore, cycloheximide chase experiments revealed that lansoprazole prolongs the half-life of the Nrf2 protein. Notably, cell viability was significantly increased by lansoprazole treatment in a cisplatin-induced cytotoxicity model. Moreover, the siRNA knockdown of Nrf2 fully abolished the cytoprotective effect of lansoprazole, whereas the inhibition of HO1 by tin-mesoporphyrin only partially abolished this. Finally, lansoprazole promoted the phosphorylation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) but not that of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase or the c-Jun N-terminal kinase. Using SB203580, a specific inhibitor for p38 MAPK, the lansoprazole-induced Nrf2/antioxidant response elements pathway activation and cytoprotective effects were shown to be exclusively p38 MAPK dependent. Lansoprazole was shown by these results to exert a cytoprotective effect on liver epithelial cells against the cisplatin-induced cytotoxicity through the p38 MAPK signaling pathway. This could have potential applications for the prevention and treatment of oxidative injury in the liver.

The possible beneficial impacts of evodiamine on hepatotoxicity induced by cisplatin

In this, it was aimed to determine the possible beneficial effects of evodiamine on hepatotoxicity induced by experimental cisplatin administration in rats. For this purpose, experimental animals were divided into four groups (n=6). Groups were designed as control, evodiamine (EVO), cisplatin (CIS), and evodiamine+cisplatin (EVO+CIS) groups. All experimental processes were applied according to rules of ethical. Rats were sacrificed by high-dose anesthesia. Considering the biochemical results of this study, it can be said that lipid peroxidation level increased and antioxidant enzyme activities decreased in the CIS group comparing to control and only EVO groups. But in the EVO+CIS group, antioxidant activities increased and lipid peroxidation decreased. Moreover, immunohistochemically caspase 8 and TNF-α expressions were severe in the CIS group, whereas, in the EVO+CIS group, these expressions attenuated. According to all our findings, it can be expressed that evodiamine has beneficial effects against hepatotoxicity induced by experimental cisplatin administration.

Protective Effect of Natural Antioxidants on Reducing Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity

The clinical application of cisplatin is limited by its adverse events, of which nephrotoxicity is the most commonly observed. In a cisplatin-induced pathological response, oxidative stress is one of the upstream reactions which inflicts different degrees of damages to the intracellular material components. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are also one of the early signaling molecules that subsequently undergo a series of pathological reactions, such as apoptosis and necrosis. This review summarizes the mechanism of intracellular ROS generation induced by cisplatin, mainly from the consumption of endogenous antioxidants, destruction of antioxidant enzymes, induction of mitochondrial crosstalk between the endoplasmic reticulum by ROS and Ca²⁺, and destruction of the cytochrome P450 (CYP) system in the endoplasmic reticulum, all of which result in excessive accumulation of intracellular ROS and oxidative stress. In addition, studies demonstrated that natural antioxidants can protect against the cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity, by reducing or even eliminating excess free radicals and also affecting other nonredox pathways. Therefore, this review on the one hand provides theoretical support for the research and clinical application of natural antioxidants and on the other hand provides a new entry point for the detailed mechanism of cisplatin nephrotoxicity, which may lay a solid foundation for the future clinical use of cisplatin.

Protective effects of annexin A1-derived peptide Ac2-26 on liver and kidney injuries induced by cisplatin in rats

AIMS

In this study we evaluated the effect of pharmacological treatment with annexin A1-derived peptide Ac_2-26 in an experimental model of toxicity induced by cisplatin.

MAIN METHODS

Male rats were divided into Sham (control), Cisplatin (received intraperitoneal injections of 10 mg/kg/day of cisplatin for 3 days) and Ac_2-26 (received intraperitoneal injections of 1 mg/kg/day of peptide, 15 min before cisplatin) groups.

KEY FINDINGS

After 6 h of the last dose of cisplatin, an acute inflammatory response was observed characterized by a marked increase in the number of neutrophils and GM-CSF, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10 and TNF-α plasma levels. Treatment with Ac_2-26 produced higher levels of GM-CSF, corroborating the high numbers of neutrophils, and the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-4. Ac_2-26 preserved the morphology of liver structures, preventing the damage caused by cisplatin, but did not reduce plasma levels of the hepatotoxicity biomarkers ARG1, GSTα and SDH. In the kidneys, the peptide maintained the markers of kidney damage CLU and KIM-1 at similar levels to the Sham group but did not avoid morphological changes caused by cisplatin. These effects of Ac_2-26 were associated with the reduction of Fpr1 and Fpr2 levels in the organs studied.

SIGNIFICANCE

Pharmacological treatment with peptide Ac_2-26 partially protects the liver and kidneys against the deleterious effects caused by cisplatin in this experimental model.

Effects of polyphenol-rich traditional herbal teas on obesity and oxidative stress in rats fed a high-fat-sugar diet

Hibiscus rosa‐sinensis and Zingiber officinalis teas are traditionally used for the therapies of various diseases, including obesity. The present research work was planned to appraise the potential of polyphenol‐rich extracts of selected herbal plants in obesity and related biochemical parameters of high‐fat–sugar diet‐induced obese rats. Three herbal teas were prepared from Hibiscus rosa‐sinensis flowers and Zingiber officinalis rhizomes and their mixture (3:1, respectively). Total phenolic contents (TPC) of Hibiscus rosa‐sinensis and Zingiber officinalis extracts were found to be 5.82 and 1.45 mg/g of dry plant material, measured as GAE, while total flavonoid contents (TFC) were 9.17 and 1.95 mg/g of dry plant material, measured as CE, respectively. Two doses (250 and 500 mg/kg BW) of each tea were administered and body weight, BMI, kidney, liver, and atherogenic indices, TC, TG, HDL, LDL, VLDL, BT, AST, ALT, AP, SC, MDA, SOD, GSH, and TAC of rats groups were measured. Data showed that higher doses of Hibiscus rosa‐sinensis significantly reduced the rat's BMI (0.50 g/cm²) in comparison with the high‐fat–sugar diet group (0.79 g/cm²). All treatment groups, especially H‐500 group, showed a significant decrease in the elevated kidney and liver weights and atherogenic index in comparison with HFSDC groups. Higher doses of Hibiscus rosa‐sinensis significantly decreased the levels of AST, ALT, AP, and SC in comparison with the HFSDC group. A significant decrease in the levels of serum TC, TG, LDL, and VLDL was observed in all the treatment groups in comparison with the HFSDC group. Furthermore, all the teas, especially higher doses of Hibiscus rosa‐sinensis, prevented the alterations in MDA, SOD, and GSH levels of experimental groups, thus showing the potential against oxidative stress. It can be concluded from these results that Hibiscus rosa‐sinensis teas exhibited strong protective effects against obesity and oxidative stress, especially at higher doses.

Protective Effect of Silymarin and Gallic Acid against Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity and Hepatotoxicity

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the effects of gallic acid and silymarin against nephrotoxicity and hepatotoxicity caused by cisplatin.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In the study, 56 Wistar Albino rats were equally divided into eight groups. Group 1 was the control group; group 2 was the group receiving cisplatin; group 3 was the group receiving cisplatin + gallic acid; group 4 was the group receiving cisplatin + silymarin; group 5 was the group receiving cisplatin + silymarin + gallic acid; group 6 was the group receiving silymarin; group 7 was the group receiving gallic acid; group 8 was the group receiving gallic acid + silymarin. AST, ALT, urea, creatinine, albumin, globulin, and total protein levels were measured at the end of the study. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), and 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8OH-dG) levels were measured in kidney and liver tissues. Additionally, histopathological evaluations of the tissues were also performed.

RESULTS

In kidney and liver tissues, cisplatin significantly increased MDA and 8-OHdG levels compared with treatment groups (p < 0.05). Silymarin-treated group significantly increased the SOD activity and GSH amount in the liver tissue compared with the cisplatin-treated group (p < 0.05). Gallic acid significantly increased CAT activity compared with the cisplatin-treated group (p < 0.05). It was determined that the cisplatin-treated group significantly decreased CAT and SOD activity compared with the control group (p > 0.05). Gallic acid showed a significant increase in CAT and SOD activity in kidney tissue compared with the cisplatin-treated group (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

As a result, it was observed that gallic acid silymarin had a protective effect on cisplatin-induced nephrotoxic and hepatotoxic effects.

Hesperidin ameliorates cisplatin induced hepatotoxicity and attenuates oxidative damage, cell apoptosis, and inflammation in rats

Cisplatin is one of the most widely used chemotherapeutic anti-cancer drugs that is associated with multiple systemic toxicities limiting its use. The present study aimed to evaluate the hepato-protective effect of hesperidin against cisplatin-induced toxicity. Thirty-two adult male albino rats were equally split into four groups, the first group served as control received normal saline, the second group (CIS) received a single intraperitoneal dose of cisplatin (7.5 mg/kg bw) on the 22nd day of the experiment, the third group (HES) treated once daily with hesperidin (200 mg/kg bw, orally) for 21 days, and the last group (HES + CIS) pretreated once daily with hesperidin followed by a single intraperitoneal dose of cisplatin. Twenty-four hours later, samples were collected for further investigations. CIS-intoxication resulted in a significant decrease in the erythrogram along with thrombocytopenia leukopenia, and lymphopenia. Furthermore, CIS administration significantly elevated serum activity of liver enzymes, total, and indirect bilirubin as well serum glucose, total cholesterol, and triglycerides levels, meanwhile serum total protein, and globulin levels were significantly reduced. The hepatic MDA was markedly elevated with a concomitant decline in the hepatic antioxidant enzymes and severe alterations in the hepatic tissue architecture in CIS-intoxicated rats. Additionally, CIS-induced overexpression of hepatic Bax, caspase-3, and TNF-α, with no effect on hepatic expression of IL-10. Interestingly, HES pretreatment improved the CIS-induced hemato-biochemical, molecular and histopathological alterations. In conclusion, hesperidin hepato-protective effects against CIS might be mediated by its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties.

Roles of Simvastatin and Sildenafil in Modulation of Cranial Irradiation-Induced Bystander Multiple Organs Injury in Rats

In radiobiology and radiation oncology fields, the observation of a phenomenon called radiation-induced bystander effect (RIBE) has introduced the prospect of remotely located tissues' affection. This phenomenon has been broadly developed to involve the concept of RIBE, which are relevant to the radiation-induced response of a distant tissue other than the irradiated one. The current study aimed at investigating each of the RIBE of cranial irradiation on oxidative and inflammatory status in different organs such as liver, kidney, heart, lung, and spleen. Being a vital target of the cholinergic anti-inflammatory response to an inflammatory stimulus, the splenic α-7-nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α-7nAchR) was evaluated and the hepatic contents of thioredoxin, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-alpha and paraoxinase-1 (Trx/PPAR-α/PON) were also assessed as indicators for the liver oxidative stress and inflammatory responses. Being reported to act as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents, simvastatin (SV) and/or sildenafil (SD) were investigated for their effects against RIBE on these organs. These objectives were achieved via the biochemical assessments and the histopathological tissues examinations. Five experimental groups, one sham irradiated and four irradiated groups, were exposed to cranial irradiation at dose level of 25 Gy using an experimental irradiator with a Cobalt (Co60) source, RIBE, RIBE + SV (20 mg.(kg.bw)-1 day-1), RIBE + SD (75 mg.(kg.bw)-1 day-1), and RIBE + SV + SD. Cranial irradiation induced structural, biochemical, and functional dys-regulations in non-targeted organs. RIBE-induced organs' injuries have been significantly corrected by the administration of SV and/or SD. Our results suggest the possibility of a potentiated interaction between SV and SD in the modulation of the RIBE associated with head and neck radiotherapy.

Protective Effect of 20(R)-Ginsenoside Rg3 Against Cisplatin-Induced Renal Toxicity via PI3K/AKT and NF-[Formula: see text]B Signaling Pathways Based on the Premise of Ensuring Anticancer Effect

Although the protective effect of ginsenoside on cisplatin-induced renal injury has been extensively studied, whether ginsenoside interferes with the antitumor effect of cisplatin has not been confirmed. In this paper, we verified the main molecular mechanism of 20(R)-ginsenoside Rg3 (R-Rg3) antagonizing cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury (AKI) through the combination of in vivo and in vitro models. It is worth mentioning that the two cell models of HK-2 and HepG2 were used simultaneously for the first time to explore the effect of the activation site of tumor-associated protein p53 on apoptosis and tumor suppression. The results showed that a single injection of cisplatin (20 mg/kg) led to weight loss, the kidney index of the mice increased, and creatinine (CRE) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels in mice sharply increased. Continuous administration of R-Rg3 at doses of 10 and 20 mg/kg for 10 days could significantly alleviate this symptom. Similarly, R-Rg3 treatment reduced oxidative stress damage caused by cisplatin. Moreover, R-Rg3 could observably reduce the apoptosis and inflammatory infiltration of renal tubular cells induced by cisplatin. We used western blotting analysis to demonstrate that R-Rg3 restored cisplatin-induced AKI might be related to PI3K/AKT and NF-[Formula: see text]B mediated apoptosis and inflammation pathways. In the meantime, we also verified that R-Rg3 could activate different sites of p53 to control renal cell apoptosis induced by cisplatin without affecting its antitumor effect.

Modulation of the Nitric Oxide/BH4 Pathway Protects Against Irradiation-Induced Neuronal Damage

The kynurenine pathway (KP, IDO/Kyn pathway) is an important metabolic pathway related to many diseases. Although cranial radiotherapy is the mainstay in metastatic tumors management, its efficacy is limited owing to the associated neuropsychiatric disorders. Sildenafil (SD) and simvastatin (SV) were reported to have antioxidant/anti-inflammatory effects and to serve as NO donor/BH4 regulator, respectively. Fluoxetine (Fx) is an FDA-approved anti-depressant agent and one of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor drugs (SSRI), used in neurological disorder treatment. The study objective was to investigate the role of cranial irradiation (C-IR) on KP signaling impairment and the possible intervention by SD and/or SV (as nitric oxide (NO) donor/Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) regulatory) on KP following C-IR-induced disruption compared with Fx (as standard drug).Herein, rats were exposed to C-IR at a single dose level of 25 Gy, then treated with sildenafil (SD) and/or simvastatin (SV), and fluoxetine (Fx) at doses of 75, 20, 10 mg/kg/day, respectively. The body weight gain and forced swimming test (FST) were used for evaluation along with the biochemical quantifications of KP intermediates and histopathological examination of cortex and hippocampus. The results indicated a significant activation of KP following C-IR as manifested by decreased Trp content and increased activities of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) and tryptophan 2,3-dioxygenase (TDO) with a rise in kynurenine (KYN) and quinolinic acid (QA) hippocampal contents. In addition, a state of C-IR-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, NO-pathway dysregulation and neuronal apoptosis were observed as compared to the control group. However, significant modulations were recorded after the combined administration of SD and SV than those offered by each of them alone and by Fx. The biochemical assessment results were supported by the histopathological tissue examination. It could be concluded that the co-administration of SV and SD offers a neuroprotective effect against irradiation-induced brain injury due to its NO donor/BH4 regulatory activities, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that modulate IDO/KYN pathway.

Possible protective activity of n-acetyl cysteine against cisplatin‑induced hepatotoxicity in rats

CP is one of the most widely used antineoplastic agents. However, its clinical application is very limited due to its severe toxic effects. The present study aimed to reveal the effects of NAC, which exhibits broad biological activities in reducing CP-induced liver damage, in consideration of biochemical, genetic, and histopathological findings. Twenty-eight wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups of seven animals. A dose of saline was administered (i.p.) to the control group for 5 days. One dose of NAC (200 mg/kg) was administered to the NAC group for 5 days (i.p.). To the NAC + CP group, a dose of CP (7.5 mg/kg) was administered on days 2 and 5 of the experiment, a dose of NAC (200 mg/ kg) (i.p.) was administered for 5 day of the experiment. CP (7.5 mg/kg) was administered to the CP group on days 2 and 5 of the experiment. At the end of the experiment, the biochemical, histological, and mRNA expression analyses of the liver tissues isolated from all the rats were performed. A statistically significant decrease was observed in the AST and ALT enzyme activities in Group NAC + CP compared to Control and CP groups. In addition, it was determined that the NAC administration reduced CP-induced inflammation by increasing the level of NF-κB and decreased CP-caused oxidative stress by decreasing the GPx level. Moreover, the histopathological analyses showed that NAC improved liver morphology. It was revealed by Western blotting analysis that NAC promoted Bcl-2 signaling and decreased p53 signaling. The findings herein showed that NAC could help alleviate hepatotoxicity, a serious therapeutic complication, by reducing CP-induced oxidative stress and playing an effective part in the regulation of apoptotic markers.

Cisplatin induced testicular damage through mitochondria mediated apoptosis, inflammation and oxidative stress in rats: impact of resveratrol

The target of this study was to explore the role of mitochondria mediated apoptosis and inflammation in cisplatin-induced testicular damage and to evaluate the ameliorative effect of resveratrol. Adult male Wistar rats were randomly allocated to 4 groups. Group I (Control) received normal saline, Group II (Resveratrol) received resveratrol (50 mg/kg/day), Group III (Cisplatin) received cisplatin (7.5 mg/kg/week, i.p.) and Group IV (Resveratrol + Cisplatin) received resveratrol and cisplatin in the same regimen of treatment. Treatment with resveratrol in Groups II and IV started 48h before cisplatin injection and continued for further 4 successive weeks. Cisplatin-treated rats showed reduced body weight, absolute testes weight and sperm count, motility and viability. On the other hand, cisplatin treatment increased the percentage of sperm abnormalities. It also decreased serum testosterone level, mitochondrial membrane potential while, increased cytochrome C liberation from the mitochondria into the cytosol. The activities of caspase-3 & -9 were increased. The level of TNF-α, IL-6 and Bax were increased whereas Bcl-2 was decreased. Oxidative stress markers were found to increase with a concomitant reduction in the antioxidant enzymes and GSH levels. These results were confirmed by immunohistochemical and histopathological analysis. Contrary to all these results, there were improvements in cisplatin induced testicular damage through attenuation of mitochondria mediated apoptosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress owing to resveratrol pretreatment. Thus, resveratrol, as a potential therapeutic agent, may hold promise in preventing mitochondria mediated apoptosis and inflammation in cisplatin-induced testicular damage in rats.

Turkish Propolis and Its Nano Form Can Ameliorate the Side Effects of Cisplatin, Which Is a Widely Used Drug in the Treatment of Cancer

This study was performed to determine the effects of chitosan-coated nano-propolis (NP), which is synthesized via a green sonochemical method, and propolis on the side effects of cisplatin (CP), which is a widely used drug in the treatment of cancer. For this aim, 56 rats were divided into seven groups, balancing their body weights (BW). The study was designed as Control, CP (3 mg/kg BW at single dose of CP as intraperitoneal, ip), Propolis (100 mg/kg BW per day of propolis by gavage), NP-10 (10 mg/kg BW of NP per day by gavage), CP + Propolis (3 mg/kg BW of CP and 100 mg/kg BW of propolis), CP + NP-10 (3 mg/kg CP and 10 mg/kg BW of NP), and CP + NP-30 (3 mg/kg BW of CP and 30 mg/kg BW of NP). Propolis and NP (especially NP-30) were preserved via biochemical parameters, oxidative stress, and activation of apoptotic pathways (anti-apoptotic protein: Bcl-2 and pro-apoptotic protein: Bax) in liver and kidney tissues in the toxicity induced by CP. The NP were more effective than propolis at a dose of 30 mg/kg BW and had the potential to ameliorate CP's negative effects while overcoming serious side effects such as liver and kidney damage.

Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidative Potential of Aloe vera on the Cartap and Malathion Mediated Toxicity in Wistar Rats

Aloe vera has been the most useful medicinal herb in the world since ancient times due to its vast biological effects. The presence of high content of bioactive compounds make Aloe vera a promising complementary and alternative agent in disease prevention. The effectiveness of A. vera-based medicines against pesticide toxicity has never been evaluated. It was therefore envisaged to develop an A. vera-based strategy to protect the non-target animals from adverse effects of the pesticides. This article illustrates the ameliorating effect of aqueous extract (AE) of A. vera leaves against the cartap and malathion toxicity. To evaluate the protective impact of A. vera against cartap (Ctp), malathion (Mtn) and a mixture of both pesticides, the animals were divided in eight groups, each containing six rats: Group 1- C (control), Group 2- AE + C, Group 3- Ctp, Group 4- Mtn, Group 5- Ctp + Mtn, Group 6- AE + Ctp, Group 7- AE + Mtn, Group 8- AE + Ctp + Mtn. Wistar rats exposed to Ctp, Mtn and Ctp + Mtn, displayed significant change in body weight. It was observed that the WBC level increased significantly in Mtn and Ctp + Mtn challenged groups. The contents of TNF-α and IL-6 in serum increased expressively in the Ctp, Mtn and Ctp + Mtn challenged groups. Rats treated with Ctp, Mtn and Ctp + Mtn displayed significant alterations in the levels of antioxidative indices (MDA, GSH, GST, GPx, SOD and CAT). Significant alterations were recorded in the activities of AST, ALT, ACP and ALP in Ctp, Mtn and Ctp + Mtn challenged groups. The histopathological results of liver supported the biochemical data. The pre-treatment of rats with the aqueous extract of A. vera leaves significantly protected them from the toxicity of pesticides. These results suggested that A. vera extract may be used as a promising natural agent for the management of pesticide induced toxicity.

Curcumin nanoparticles ameliorate hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity induced by cisplatin in rats

The present work was conducted to investigate the effect of curcumin nanoparticles (CUR NPs) on cisplatin-induced hepatotoxicty and nephrotoxicity in rats. Rats were divided randomly into the following: control, rats treated daily with CUR NPs (50 mg/kg body wt/day) for 14 days, rats treated with a single dose of cisplatin (12 mg/kg body wt, i.p), and rats treated with a single dose of cisplatin followed by a daily administration of CUR NPs for 14 days. Cisplatin-induced hepato- and nephrotoxicity were evaluated by histological examinations and biochemical analyses of liver and kidney functions. Cisplatin induced significant increases in the activities of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and in the levels of bilirubin, urea, uric acid and creatinine. In addition, the levels of hepatic and renal lipid peroxidation (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), and serum tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) increased significantly. However, cisplatin significantly decreased hepatic and renal reduced glutathione levels and renal Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase activity. Treatment with CUR NPs ameliorated almost all the biochemical changes induced by cisplatin and improved the histopathological alterations in liver and kidney. In conclusion, the present findings indicate that CUR NPs offered an effective protection against cisplatin-induced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Methanolic extract of Ephedra alata ameliorates cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity and hepatotoxicity through reducing oxidative stress and genotoxicity

Cisplatin (CP) is a powerful anticancer agent used in the treatment of a diverse type of cancers. Oxidative stress is one of the most important side effects limiting the use of cisplatin. The protective effects of methanolic extract (ME) and ephedrine (EP), major compound, of Ephedra alata on CP-induced damages were here assessed. Treatment with CP-induced nephrotoxicity and hepatotoxicity characterized by biochemical alterations. In fact, using CP reduced significantly glutathione (GSH) levels, enzymatic activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), and increased malondialdehyde (MDA) content. Nonetheless, CP-treatment induced DNA damage at renal, hepatic, and blood cells and increased interferon gamma (IFNγ) level in serum. Co-treatments of mice with ME normalized relative kidney/body weight, restored biochemical and oxidative stress parameters, reduced DNA damage and IFNγ level. In conclusion, ME exhibited the best protective effect against CP damage compared with ephedrine. This is could be attributed to the presence of polysaccharides, organic acids, flavonoids, and tannins in addition to ephedrine alkaloids. These compounds were reported to play a major role in inhibiting and scavenging free radicals, providing an effective protection against CP- induced oxidative damage. Graphical abstract.

Pharmacokinetics and tissue distribution in rats of a novel anticancer platinum compound LLC-1903

LLC-1903, a novel anticancer compound, was synthesized by optimizing the structure, which was derived from altering the leaving group of lobaplatin. It has an excellent in vitro anti-cancer activity, high water solubility, high stability in solution and low in vivo toxicity according to our former study.The plasma pharmacokinetics (PK) and tissue distribution of LLC-1903 and lobaplatin in rats were determined after intravenous administration of a single dose (0.06 mmol/kg body weight). Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) was used to measure the concentration of platinum (Pt) in plasma and tissue samples.Most PK parameters of the Pt in LLC-1903 showed a significant difference from those of lobaplatin. The plasma level of LLC-1903 is only half of that of lobaplatin (p < 0.01) which could be the direct result of faster drug clearance. The tissue distribution showed that both LLC-1903 and lobaplatin were mainly found in the liver and kidney, and less in other organs. At four time points (0.083, 0.5, 1 and 4 h) after administration, the tissue concentrations of LLC-1903 were almost always significantly higher than those of lobaplatin (p < 0.05 or p < 0.01).

Modulatory effect of zingerone against cisplatin or γ-irradiation induced hepatotoxicity by molecular targeting regulation

Zingerone (ZO) is an ingredient of ginger (Zingiber officinale) which has different pharmacological properties. The objective of this research was to evaluate the protective effect of ZO against Cisplatin (Cis) or γ-Irradiation (IR)-induced hepatotoxicity in rats. ZO was given orally for consecutive 14 days prior to the treatment with Cis or exposure to IR at 15th day. Animals were sacrificed at the 23rd day. Cis or IR induced a marked increase in MAPK signal transduction as evidenced by increased p38 MAPK, JNK and ErK1/2. CYP2E1 and NADPH oxidase were significantly up-regulated. Inflammatory markers (TLR4, iNOS, COX-2 and MPO) and liver enzymes (AST, ALT and ALP) activities were also increased. Administration of ZO significantly ameliorated the above mentioned parameters.

Toxicopathological and immunological studies on different concentrations of chitosan-coated silver nanoparticles in rats

Background

Much consideration has been paid to the toxicological assessment of nanoparticles prior to clinical and biological applications. While in vitro studies have been expanding continually, in vivo investigations of nanoparticles have not developed a cohesive structure. This study aimed to assess the acute toxicity of different concentrations of chitosan-coated silver nanoparticles (Ch-AgNPs) in main organs, including liver, kidneys, and spleen.

Materials and methods

Twenty-eight male albino rats were used and divided into 4 groups (n=7). Group 1 was kept as a negative control group. Groups 2, 3, and 4 were treated intraperitoneally with Ch-AgNPs each day for 14 days at doses of 50, 25, and 10 mg/kg body weight (bwt) respectively. Histopathological, morphometric and immunohistochemical studies were performed as well as oxidative stress evaluations, and specific functional examinations for each organ were elucidated.

Results

It was revealed that Ch-AgNPs induced dose-dependent toxicity, and the repeated dosing of rats with 50 mg/kg Ch-AgNPs induced severe toxicities. Histopathological examination showed congestion, hemorrhage, cellular degeneration, apoptosis and necrosis in hepatic and renal tissue as well as lymphocytic depletion with increasing tangible macrophages in the spleen. The highest levels of malondialdehyde, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase (MDA, ALT, AST) and the lowest levels of reduced glutathione, immunoglobulin G, M and total protein (GSH, IgG, IgM, TP) were observed in this group. On the other hand, repeated dosing with 25 mg/kg induced mild to moderate disturbance in the previous parameters, while there was no significant difference in results of pathological examination and biochemical tests between the control group and those treated with 10 mg/kg bwt Ch-AgNPs.

Conclusion

Chitosan-coated silver nanoparticles induce dose-dependent adverse effects on rats.

Blackberry juice anthocyanidins limit cisplatin-induced renal pathophysiology in mice

Some studies have showed that intake of blackberry juice (BBJ) can prevent urinary tract infections. However, there is a lack of studies that evaluate the mechanisms by which BBJ has protective effect. Thus, the aim of current study was to evaluate the effects of BBJ supplementation on cisplatin-induced renal pathophysiology in mice. Mice were supplemented with BBJ (10 mL/kg) for seven days. One hour after the last supplementation with BBJ, mice received cisplatin (10 mg/kg, i.p.). Seventy-two hours after cisplatin administration, blood was collected and biochemical analysis were performed (urea and creatinine), kidney was dissected and utilized in histological and oxidative evaluations. Cisplatin caused severe injury in renal tissue, in markers of renal damage (urea and creatinine) generated increased of plasmatic levels. Besides that, the cisplatin induced decreased of enzymes activities in renal tissue (superoxide dismutase, glutathione S-transferase and catalase). In contrast, BBJ supplementation protected against histopathological alterations through decreased in urea and creatinine levels and modulation of catalase enzyme activity. Thus, BBJ supplementation protected the renal system of mice from deleterious effects. We suggest that high concentrations of Cyanidin 3-O-glucoside and Cyanidin 3-O-rutinoside are responsible for antioxidant role of BBJ supplementation in renal pathophysiology induced by cisplatin exposure. Also, these results reinforcing the importance of including BBJ in the human diet aimed at preventing renal diseases.

Apoptosis perturbations and expression of regulatory inflammatory factors in cisplatin-depleted rat livers under l-arginine protection

Hepatic injury is one of the most common complications associated with cisplatin (CIS) use. Recently, liver protection lines are being discovered to stop the hepatic cell death due to inflammatory and apoptotic perturbations. l-arginine has protective effects in several models of liver injury. This study was designed to investigate the possible protective effect of l-arginine against CIS-induced acute hepatic injury in rats. Rats were divided into 4 groups: control, l-arginine, CIS, l-arginine + CIS. Liver function, oxidative stress, inflammatory cytokines, and apoptosis markers were assessed. l-arginine pretreatment protected the liver against CIS-induced toxicity as indicated by significantly alleviating the changes in liver function along with restoration of the antioxidant status. This finding was confirmed with the markedly improved pathological changes. l-arginine showed anti-inflammatory effect through the reduction of liver expression of iNOS, TNF-α, and NF-κβ, which were ameliorated to significant levels. Furthermore, l-arginine administration downregulated the liver expression of the apoptotic marker, caspase-3. The results recommend l-arginine as a hepatoprotective agent against CIS toxicity. Mostly, this hepatoprotective effect of l-arginine involved anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic activities.

Cisplatin: The first metal based anticancer drug

Cisplatin or (SP-4-2)-diamminedichloridoplatinum(II) is one of the most potential and widely used drugs for the treatment of various solid cancers such as testicular, ovarian, head and neck, bladder, lung, cervical cancer, melanoma, lymphomas and several others. Cisplatin exerts anticancer activity via multiple mechanisms but its most acceptable mechanism involves generation of DNA lesions by interacting with purine bases on DNA followed by activation of several signal transduction pathways which finally lead to apoptosis. However, side effects and drug resistance are the two inherent challenges of cisplatin which limit its application and effectiveness. Reduction of drug accumulation inside cancer cells, inactivation of drug by reacting with glutathione and metallothioneins and faster repairing of DNA lesions are responsible for cisplatin resistance. To minimize cisplatin side effects and resistance, combination therapies are used and have proven more effective to defect cancers. This article highlights a systematic description on cisplatin which includes a brief history, synthesis, action mechanism, resistance, uses, side effects and modulation of side effects. It also briefly describes development of platinum drugs from very small cisplatin complex to very large next generation nanocarriers conjugated platinum complexes.

Pitavastatin attenuates cisplatin-induced renal injury by targeting MAPK and apoptotic pathways

OBJECTIVE

Anti-neoplastic drug cisplatin is prescribed widely for treatment of a variety of malignancies. Its use has been restricted lately due to severe renal toxicity. The purpose of current study was to investigate the effect of pitavastatin (a hypolipidaemic drug) in cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury in rats.

METHOD

Male Wistar rats (150-200 g) were treated with different doses of pitavastatin (0.16, 0.32 and 0.64 mg/kg per day p.o.; 10 days). On 7th day of the study, rats were administered cisplatin (8 mg/kg i.p.). Rats were euthanized (11th day), and blood and tissues were processed to evaluate biochemical, histopathological and ultrastructural parameters along with the analysis of immunohistochemistry and DNA-fragmentation studies. Protein expressions were analysed to demonstrate the underlying molecular mechanisms.

KEY FINDINGS

In the study group with cisplatin insult, KFT parameters were found to be elevated, concentration of apoptotic markers was found to be increased, histopathological and ultramicroscopical architecture was found to be distorted and the expression of MAPK proteins was also found to be elevated as compared to the normal group rats. Pitavastatin treatment alleviated all these anomalies.

CONCLUSION

Cisplatin-induced acute renal injury was improved on administration of pitavastatin via inhibition of MAPK and apoptotic pathway.

Possible Protective Role of Panax Ginseng on Cisplatin-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Adult Male Albino Rats (Biochemical and Histological Study)

Background:

Cisplatin is one of the most effective chemotherapy antineoplastic drugs. Panax ginseng is a well-known medicinal herb and has a long history of medicinal use as a tonic to promote health.

Aim:

This work aimed to study the effect of ginseng on the liver damage induced by cisplatin in rats. It included biochemical and histological investigations.

Materials and Methods:

Twenty adult rats were divided into four equal groups. Group I served as control. Group II received ginseng orally (100 mg/kg/day) for 4 weeks. Group III animals were injected intraperitoneally with cisplatin in three equal doses (each 3.3 mg/kg) daily for 3 consecutive days. Group IV animals received ginseng together with cisplatin by the same previously mentioned methods and doses. Rats were sacrificed after 4 weeks, and blood samples and liver tissues were collected for biochemical and histological examinations.

Results:

Cisplatin-induced liver damage manifested biochemically by an increase in serum alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase. Histologically, hepatocytes appeared with vacuolated cytoplasm and small dark-stained nuclei with dilatation of blood sinusoids as well as marked accumulation of collagen fibers around enlarged portal tracts. Administration of ginseng together with cisplatin improved the hepatic dysfunctions and damage caused by cisplatin.

Conclusion:

Ginseng has a protective role in the amelioration of cisplatin-induced hepatotoxicity.

Biochemical and morphological evaluation of the effects of propolis on cisplatin induced kidney damage in rats

Cisplatin (CP) is a chemotherapeutic agent used to treat various types of cancer; nephrotoxicity is the most common adverse effect of the drug. We investigated the protective effects of propolis against CP induced kidney injury. Thirty-six male rats were divided into six equal groups: untreated control group, 50 mg/kg/day propolis group, 100 mg/kg/day propolis group, single-dose 7 mg/kg CP group, 7 mg/kg CP + 50 mg/kg/day propolis and 7 mg/kg CP + 100 mg/kg propolis. Rats were sacrificed after 14 days and kidneys were removed for histopathological and biochemical analyses. We used hematoxylin & eosin and periodic acid-Schiff staining to evaluate kidney histopathology and we used the TUNEL technique to assess apoptosis. We also measured total oxidant status (TOS), total antioxidant status (TAS), oxidative stress index (OSI), ischemia-modified albumin (IMA) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in tissue and blood specimens. Normal morphology was observed in the control, 50 mg/kg/day propolis and 100 mg/kg/day propolis groups by light microscopy. Degeneration of tubule cells, edema and tubule dilation were increased in the CP group compared to the control group. Degeneration of tubule cells and dilation of Bowman's spaces were decreased in the CP + 50 mg/kg/day propolis and CP + 100 mg/kg/day propolis groups compared to the CP group. Tubule dilation decreased significantly in the CP + 100 mg/kg propolis group compared to the CP group. Also, the 7 mg/kg CP group exhibited altered proximal tubule epithelial cells, loss of brush border and thickening of the parietal layer of Bowman's capsule in glomeruli and basal laminae of tubules. A normal brush border was observed in the CP + 50 mg/kg/day propolis and CP + 100 mg/kg/day groups. Serum OSI and MDA levels were increased in the CP group compared to the control group. Serum MDA levels decreased significantly in the CP + 50 mg/kg/day propolis and 100 mg/kg CP + propolis groups compared to the CP group. CP caused significant damage to kidney tissue; propolis exhibited dose-dependent prevention of tissue damage.

Effect of Methanolic Extract of Corn Silk on Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity in Rats

Background:

Cisplatin is a cytotoxic agent in cancer therapy. Nephrotoxicity is considered as a side effect of cisplatin usage. Using rate models, we studied the possible protective impact of corn-silk (CS) extract against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity.

Materials and Methods:

Thirty-five experimental rats were divided into five groups (n=7 per each group) as follow: C1: Control received distilled water only; C2: received one dose of cisplatin, and CS: received 300 mg/kg/day of CS. Both CS1 and CS2 received 200 and 300 mg/kg/day of the CS extract orally, individually, for eight consecutive days. CS1 and CS2 received a single dose of cisplatin on the first day only. The specific biochemical markers and histopathological alterations were evaluated.

Result:

According to our results, cisplatin administration could have induced severe degeneration in all parts of the nephron tubules and liver. Pre-treatment with CS exhibited a significant decrease in the malondialdehyde (MDA) levels as compared to the values obtained after treatment with cisplatin alone (P<0.01). Moreover, the CS extract with 200 mg dose showed significant (P<0.01) protection against the cisplatin-induced elevation of blood urea nitrogen. Further, the serum levels of alanine transaminase and aspartate transaminase were higher in the cisplatin-treated groups, when compared to the control group (P<0.05). Furthermore, the hepatic function was also improved in cisplatin-treated animals, which were pre-treated with CS.

Conclusion:

CS has the potential to attenuate nephrotoxicity and lipid peroxidation induced by cisplatin in rats.

Protective Effect of Sika Deer (Cervus nippon) Velvet Antler Extract against Cisplatin-Induced Kidney and Liver Injury in a Prostate Cancer PC-3 Cell Xenograft Model

We previously discovered the antioxidant and antiprostate cancer effects of antler extract (AE), but whether it inhibits cisplatin- (Cis-) induced toxicity has not been investigated. In this study, the effect of AE on Cis-induced side effects in the kidney and liver using 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide-based cytotoxicity and cell cycle assays in prostate cancer PC-3 cells in vitro is investigated. Furthermore, we used a xenograft mouse model of the same cells to examine the in vivo effects and mechanisms of action. Cis and Cis + AE treatment attenuated prostate cancer cell growth by inducing apoptosis in vitro. Cis + AE stimulated cleaved caspases 3, 7, and 9 and polyadenosine diphosphate ribose polymerase expression. Cis + AE treatment for 1 week significantly increased the superoxide dismutase and catalase antioxidant activity while thiobarbituric acid reactive substances decreased. The histopathological damage and tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin- (IL-) 1β and IL-6, cyclooxygenase-2, and inducible nitric oxide synthase expression in the kidney and liver tissue decreased. Therefore, AE likely possesses antiprostate cancer activity and inhibits Cis toxicity.

Improved drug carriage and protective potential against Cisplatin-induced toxicity using Boldine-loaded PLGA nanoparticles

Background

Cisplatin is a widely-used potent anti-cancer drug having severe side-effects precluding its sustained use.

Objectives

Poly (lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA)-nanoparticles loaded Boldine, an antioxidant ingredient of ethanolic extract of Boldo plant (Peumus boldus) was tested in cancer mice model, Mus musculus to examine if it could reduce unwanted Cisplatin-induced toxicity in normal tissue.

Material and methods

Nano-encapsulation of Boldine was done by following the standardized solvent displacement method. Physico-chemical characterization of PLGA-encapsulated nano-Boldine (NBol) was accomplished through analyses of various spectroscopic techniques. Status of major antioxidant enzymes, functional markers, and lipid peroxidation (LPO) was also determined in certain tissue and serum samples. Percentage of cells undergoing cytotoxic death, Reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation and mitochondrial functioning were analyzed in both normal and cancer mice. Nanoscale changes in chromatin organization were assessed by Transmission electron microscopy (TEM). mRNA and protein expressions of Top II, Bax, Bcl-2, Cyt c, caspase 3 were studied by RT-PCR, immunoblot and immunofluorescence.

Results

NBol had faster mobility, site-specific action and ability of sustained particle release. NBol readily entered cells, prevented Cisplatin to intercalate with dsDNA resulting in reduction of chromatin condensation, with corresponding changes in ROS levels, mitochondrial functioning and antioxidant enzyme activities, leading to reduction in Deoxyribose nucleic acid (DNA) damage and cytotoxic cell death. Expression pattern of apoptotic genes like Top II, p53, Bax, Bcl-2, cytochrome c and caspase-3 suggested greater cytoprotective potentials of NBol in normal tissues.

Conclusions

Compared to Boldine (Bol), NBol had better ability of drug carriage and protective potentials (29.00% approximately) against Cisplatin-induced toxicity. Combinational therapeutic use of PLGA-NBol can reduce unwanted Cisplatin-induced cellular toxicity facilitating use of Cisplatin.

•

PLGA-nano Boldine (NBol) has been physico-chemically and functionally studied.

•

NBol has faster cellular entry, mobility, action and can cross blood–brain-barrier.

•

Toxicity biomarkers studied suggest NBol to protect liver and kidney toxicity.

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NBol intercalates with DNA competitively and hinders Cisplatin intercalation.

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NBol presumably acts through p53 dependent Bax/Bcl2 signalling pathway.

Nutritionally Available Selenocysteine Derivative Antagonizes Cisplatin-Induced Toxicity in Renal Epithelial Cells through Inhibition of Reactive Oxygen Species-Mediated Signaling Pathways

Discovery of nutritionally available agents that could antagonize cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity is of great significance and clinical application potential. 3,3'-Diselenodipropionic acid (DSePA) is a seleno-amino acid derivative that exhibits strong antioxidant activity. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the protective effects of DSePA on cisplatin-induced renal epithelial cells damage as well as the molecular mechanisms. The results revealed that DSePA effectively inhibited cell apoptosis induced by cisplatin through suppressing the caspase activation and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase cleavage. In addition, DSePA blocked the cisplatin-induced mitochondrial dysfunction, as evidenced by the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential and reduction of mitochondrial mass. The results of western blot analysis showed that DSePA reversed the expression level of Bcl-2 family proteins altered by cisplatin. The cisplatin-activated AKT pathway was also modulated by DSePA. Moreover, these results indicate that DSePA could protect HK-2 cells from cisplatin-induced toxicity in renal epithelial cells by inhibiting intracellular reactive oxygen species-mediated apoptosis while showing an unobvious effect on its anticancer efficacy. Taken together, this study demonstrates that selenocysteine could be further developed as novel nutritionally available agents to antagonize cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity during cancer therapy.

Summer savory (Satureja hortensis L.) extract: Phytochemical profile and modulation of cisplatin-induced liver, renal and testicular toxicity

The aim of our study was to examine the potential ameliorating effect of the methanolic extract of Satureja hortensis L. (summer savory) aerial parts against cisplatin-induced oxidative damage in renal, hepatic, and testicular tissues. S. hortensis methanol extract at the doses of 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg of body weight were orally administered to Wistar rats once daily for 10 days. Toxicity was induced by intraperitoneal injection of a single dose of cisplatin (7.5 mg/kg of body weight) on the 5th day of the experiment. Applied treatment with S. hortensis extract restored tissue morphology, ameliorated levels of serum parameters for liver, renal and testes function, tissue oxidative stress parameters, and increased Bcl-2/Bax ratio as an indicator of apoptosis in experimental animals caused by application of cisplatin. UHPLC/DAD/HESI-MS/MS analysis revealed that S. hortensis extract was rich in phenolic compounds with rosmarinic acid (24.9 mg/g) as the main compound, followed by caffeic acid (1.28 mg/g) and naringenin (1.06 mg/g). Our findings suggest that S. hortensis may be a valuable source of dietary and pharmacologically important phenolic compounds, especially rosmarinic acid, in pharmaceutical and functional food formulations in order to maintain normal health conditions or as a remedy in various diseases caused by oxidative damage.

Evaluation of cebranopadol, a dually acting nociceptin/orphanin FQ and opioid receptor agonist in mouse models of acute, tonic, and chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain

BACKGROUND

Cebranopadol (a.k.a. GRT-6005) is a dually acting nociceptin/orphanin FQ and opioid receptor agonist that has been recently developed in Phase 2 clinical trials for painful diabetic neuropathy or cancer pain. It also showed analgesic properties in various rat models of pain and had a better safety profile as compared to equi-analgesic doses of morphine. Since antinociceptive properties of cebranopadol have been studied mainly in rat models, in the present study, we assessed analgesic activity of subcutaneous cebranopadol (10 mg/kg) in various mouse pain models.

METHODS

We used models of acute, tonic, and chronic pain induced by thermal and chemical stimuli, with a particular emphasis on pharmacoresistant chronic neuropathic pain evoked by oxaliplatin in which cebranopadol was used alone or in combination with simvastatin.

KEY RESULTS

As shown in the hot plate test, the analgesic activity of cebranopadol developed more slowly as compared to morphine (90-120 min vs. 60 min). Cebranopadol displayed a significant antinociceptive activity in acute pain models, i.e., the hot plate, writhing, and capsaicin tests. It attenuated nocifensive responses in both phases of the formalin test and reduced cold allodynia in oxaliplatin-induced neuropathic pain model. Its efficacy was similar to that of morphine. Used in combination and administered simultaneously, 4 or 6 h after simvastatin, cebranopadol did not potentiate antiallodynic activity of this cholesterol-lowering drug. Cebranopadol did not induce any motor deficits in the rotarod test.

CONCLUSION

Cebranopadol may have significant potential for the treatment of various pain types, including inflammatory and chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain.

Effect of daidzein on cisplatin-induced hematotoxicity and hepatotoxicity in experimental rats

Objective:

The objective of the study was to investigate the effect of daidzein flavonoid on cisplatin (CP)-induced hematotoxicity and hepatotoxicity in experimental rats.

Materials and Methods:

The Wistar rats were randomly divided into four equal groups: Normal (saline 1 ml p.o.), CP (7.5 mg/kg once intraperioteneally on 16^th day), test group of low dose (combination of CP and daidzein 20 mg/kg p.o. for 21 days), and test group of high dose (combination of CP and daidzein 40 mg/kg p.o. for 21 days). Blood samples were collected on 22^nd day from each rat and subjected for evaluation of hematological parameters such as red blood corpuscles (RBC), white blood corpuscles, hemoglobin (Hb) and platelets, and serum biomarkers such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). Liver of each rat was excised and subjected for antioxidants evaluation such as malonyl dialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and histopathological study.

Results:

Daidzein had a significant (P < 0.001) beneficial role in CP-induced hemotoxicity by increasing RBC, Hb, packed cell volume, and platelets. Daidzein also exhibited a significant (P < 0.001) protection against CP-induced hepatotoxicity by decreasing ALT, AST, ALP, and MDA level and by elevating the GSH, SOD, and catalase.

Conclusions:

Daidzein attenuates CP-induced oxidative stress on blood cells and antioxidants in rats.

The impact of pretreatment with simvastatin on kidney tissue of rats with acute sepsis

It has been reported that changes in cytokine levels affect mitochondrial functions, levels of hypoxia-inducible factor α (HIF-1α), and tissue damage during sepsis. We aimed to investigate the effects of simvastatin pretreatment on mitochondrial enzyme activities, and on levels of ghrelin, HIF-1α, and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) in kidney tissue during sepsis. Rats were separated into four groups, namely, control, lipopolysaccharides (LPS) (20 mg/kg), simvastatin (20 mg/kg), and simvastatin + LPS. We measured the levels of mitochondrial enzyme activities and TBARS in the kidney using spectrophotometry. The histological structure of the kidney sections was examined after staining with hematoxylin and eosin. Tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), IL-10, HIF-1α, and ghrelin immunoreactivity were examined using proper antibodies. In tissue, TNF-α (p < 0.01) and HIF-1α (p < 0.05) levels were increased in the simvastatin + LPS and LPS groups. TBARS levels were higher in the LPS group than in the other groups (p < 0.01), but they were similar in the simvastatin + LPS and control groups (p > 0.05). Ghrelin immunoreactivity was lower in the LPS group (p < 0.05) and higher in the simvastatin + LPS group than in the LPS group (p < 0.01). We observed tubular damage in the sections of the LPS group. There were no differences in mitochondrial enzyme activities between the groups (p > 0.05). We observed that pretreatment of simvastatin caused favorable changes on ghrelin and TBARS levels in rats with sepsis.

Modulatory influence of Acacia hydaspica R. Parker ethyl acetate extract against cisplatin inveigled hepatic injury and dyslipidemia in rats

BACKGROUND

Cisplatin (CP) is recommended as a first-line chemotherapeutic agent for solid tumors, however its usage outcomes in severe adverse effects. Acacia hydaspica possesses various phytochemicals and pharmacological activities. The current study aimed to investigate the protective effect of A. hydaspica ethyl acetate extract (AHE) against CP induced aberrations in lipid profile and hepatotoxicity.

METHODS

Rats were randomly separated into six groups (n = 6). Group 1 (control) received distilled water orally for 21 days. Groups 2 (CP control) received a single dose of CP (7.5 mg/kg bw, i.p) on day 16, group 3 (Plant control) received AHE (400 mg/kg b.w, oral) for 21 days, group 4 (post treated group); CP received on day 16 and AHE (400 mg/kg b.w/day, p.o.) was administered after CP till day 21, Group 5 (pretreated group) received AHE (400 mg/kg b.w/day, p.o.) for 21 days and CP (7.5 mg/kg b.w., i.p.) on day 16, group 6 (Silymarin + CP) received 100 mg/kg b.w., p.o. (11 doses/21 days) and CP (7.5 mg/kg b.w., i.p.) on day 16. Lipid profile, liver functional tests, oxidative stress markers, antioxidant enzymes status and histopathological changes were examined.

RESULTS

The present study revealed that CP caused body weights loss and increase liver index. CP significantly increased serum total lipid, triglycerides and LDL-cholesterol levels. Conversely, it significantly decreased serum HDL-cholesterol level. CP induced marked deteriorations in serum liver function biomarkers, reduced antioxidant enzymes in tissue, while elevated tissue oxidative stress markers along with morphological injuries compared to control rats. Treatment with AHE ameliorated CP induced alterations in lipid profile, serum ALT, AST, ALP and total bilirubin levels and liver weight. Furthermore AHE treatment improved the total protein and antioxidant enzymes levels while decreased the level of MDA, H2O2, and NO. The altered parameters were returned to the control level with AHE pretreatment. Histopathological analysis also supported the biochemical findings. Pretreatment seems to be more effective compared to post treatment indicating protective effect.

CONCLUSION

These results reveal that treatment of AHE may be useful in the prevention of CP induced hepatotoxicity due to its antioxidant potential and polyphenolic constituents.

Atorvastatin attenuates ethanol-induced hepatotoxicity via antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms

The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of inflammation and oxidative damage in hepatotoxicity of ethanol. Also we assessed protective effects of atorvastatin against ethanol-induced hepatotoxicity. In this study, the animals were divided into five groups: control, ethanol (10 mg/kg intraperitoneal (i.p.)), ethanol with atorvastatin (10, 20 mg/kg/day, i.p.) and ethanol-vitamin C group which received ethanol (10 mg/kg/day) plus vitamin C (200 mg/kg, i.p.) for 28 consecutive days. Then, the animals were euthanized and liver tissues were separated. Biochemical markers ALT and AST were measured. Moreover, glutathione (GSH) content, lipid peroxidation, protein carbonyl, nitric oxide and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were evaluated. The administration of ethanol for 28 days resulted in an increase in liver damage, oxidative stress and inflammatory markers. The atorvastatin was able to prevent the ethanol-induced hepatotoxicity by decreasing the oxidative stress and inflammation processes. Our study showed the critical role of oxidative damage and inflammation in ethanol-induced hepatotoxicity that markedly was inhibited by administration of atorvastatin. Therefore, atorvastatin can be suggested for prevention of ethanol-induced hepatotoxicity.

Protective Effect of Withania coagulans Fruit Extract on Cisplatin-induced Nephrotoxicity in Rats

Background:

Fruits of Withania coagulans (Solanaceae) reported to possess several bioactive compounds as curative agents for various clinical conditions. Cisplatin is a chemotherapeutic drug to treat sarcomas, carcinomas, lymphomas, cervical cancer, germ cell tumors, etc. The major factor that limits its clinical use is its dose-dependent nephrotoxicity.

Aim:

To explore the nephroprotective effect of W. coagulans extract and its modulatory effects against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity and genotoxicity.

Materials and Methods:

W. coagulans fruit extract was quantitatively standardized with withaferin A using high-performance thin-layer chromatography. The subacute toxicity study was performed according to OECD guidelines in experimental rats. Nephrotoxicity in rats was induced by a single dose of cisplatin (6 mg/kg, intraperitoneal). Nephroprotective role of W. coagulans fruit extract at different doses had been evaluated. It includes quantification of serum kidney toxicity markers, renal tissue oxidative stress biomarkers and pro-inflammatory cytokines level, DNA fragmentation assay, and histopathological examination of renal tissue.

Results:

Withaferin A was found 3.56 mg/g of W. coagulans fruit extract. It significantly prevented the rise in serum urea and creatinine level and also preserve rat kidneys from oxidative stress and free radical induced DNA damage. Histopathological study showed extract treatment eliminates tubular swelling, cellular necrosis, and protein cast deposition in cisplatin treated kidney tissue. It averted the decline in glutathione content, activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase. These parameters were restored to near normal levels by extract in a dose of 400 mg/kg, per oral. Conclusion: It can be justified that W. coagulans possess dose dependent protective effect against cisplatin induced kidney damages, primarily through its free radical scavenging and anti inflammatory activity

SUMMARY

Authentication and standardization of Withania coagulans fruits

Subacute oral toxicity study

Evaluation of nephroprotective activity against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity

DNA fragmentation assay and histopathological examination of kidney tissue in experimental rats.

Abbreviations Used: WHO: World Health Organization, SOD: Superoxide dismutase, CAT: Catalase, HPTLC: High-performance thin layer chromatography, p.o.: Per.oral, i.p.: Intraperitoneal, TNF-α: Tumor necrosis factor-alpha, IL-1β: Interleukin 1-beta, IL-6: Interleukin-6

Dose-dependent effects of cisplatin on the severity of testicular injury in Sprague Dawley rats: reactive oxygen species and endoplasmic reticulum stress

Cisplatin (CIS) is used in the treatment of cancer, but its nonspecific systemic actions lead to toxic effects on other parts of the body. This study investigated the severity of CIS toxicity by increasing its dose over a constant time period. Sprague Dawley rats were divided into five treatment groups and control group with CIS (2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 mg/kg) administered intraperitoneally for 5 days. The body and organs were weighed, epididymal sperm was counted, and sperm motility and sperm apoptosis were evaluated. Blood samples were evaluated for complete blood count, reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, malondialdehyde levels, and total testosterone. The testicular tissue was examined for steroidogenic acute regulatory protein and endoplasmic reticulum stress protein. Epididymal sperm was collected for CatSper Western blot. The toxic effects of different doses of CIS on the testis and kidney were compared histologically. The weights of body, testis, epididymis, prostate, seminal vesicle, and kidney; sperm count; sperm motility; steroidogenic acute regulatory protein level; and epididymal sperm count were significantly lower in the CIS-treated groups than in the control group. In contrast, sperm apoptosis, plasma reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, and malondialdehyde, testosterone, red blood cell, hematocrit, hemoglobin, and endoplasmic reticulum stress protein levels all increased. Though CIS effectively treats cancer, at an increased dose it is toxic and life-threatening to the genitourinary system and other parts of the body.

Simvastatin attenuates chromium-induced nephrotoxicity in rats

Background

Hexavalent Chromium (Cr (VI)) compounds are extremely toxic and have been demonstrated to induce nephrotoxicity associated with oxidative stress in humans and animals. The wide environmental distribution of these agents lead to an increase interest of preventive effects of its adverse effects.

Objectives

The propose of the present study was to determine the potential protective effects of simvastatin (SIMV) on Cr (VI)-induced nephrotoxicity in rat.

Materials and Methods

Forty-eight adult male Wistar rats (180-220 g BW) were randomly assigned to eight groups (n = 6). Group one received SIMV 20 mg/kg/day. Group two was given vehicle only. Groups three, five and seven received intraperitoneally (i.p) sodium dichromate (Cr (VI)) at doses of 8, 12 and 16 mg/kg body weight. Groups four, six and eight pretreated with the 20 mg/kg SIMV 30 minutes to prior administration of Cr (VI) at doses of 8, 12 and 16 mg/kg, respectively. The experiment repeated for eight consecutive days. Twenty-four hours after the last administration, animals were killed with overdose of sodium pentobarbital. Kidney tissues were excised for measuring malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH) and histopathological examination.

Results

Chromium induced a dose dependent elevation of MDA and reduction of GSH levels. Histopathological manifestations were observed in Cr (VI)-treated rats. SIMV administration restored Cr (VI) produced biochemical and morphological changes in rat kidney. SIMV decreased MDA values and increased GSH levels in Cr (VI)-treated rats. SIMV clearly reversed the microscopic damage, demonstrating its protective effects against Cr (VI)-induced kidney injury.

Conclusions

This observation suggests that SIMV may have a protective effect against Cr (VI)-induced oxidative stress in rat kidney.