Diclofenac - induced hepatotoxicity: Low dose of omega-3 fatty acids have more protective effects

Melissa officinalis Attenuates Diclofenac-Induced Hepatorenal Toxicity via AMPK/SIRT1 and STAT3/Nrf2 Pathways

PURPOSE

This study aimed to assess whether Melissa officinalis (MO) or lemon balm could counteract the detrimental effects of diclofenac (DIC) on the liver and kidneys in male albino rats.

METHODS

Forty adult male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to four groups (n = 10 per group): control, DIC (10 mg/kg intraperitoneally), DIC + MO (10 mg/kg DIC IP + 200 mg/kg lemon balm orally), and MO only (200 mg/kg orally) for 28 days. Biochemical, molecular, and histopathological evaluations were conducted to assess organ function and tissue integrity.

RESULTS

DIC significantly impaired hepatic and renal function (p < 0.05), evidenced by elevated serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alpha-fetoprotein (AFP). Oxidative stress increased, as shown by higher malondialdehyde levels and reduced antioxidants, including glutathione and catalase (CAT). Inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were also elevated. Histopathological analysis indicated severe tissue damage and cell death in the liver and kidneys from DIC. However, adding MO alongside DIC mitigated these effects, improving both biochemical and histopathological parameters in the liver and kidneys. Gene expression analysis revealed upregulation of STAT3 and TNF-α and downregulation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). Coadministration of MO significantly reversed these alterations (p < 0.05), improved tissue architecture, and restored antioxidant and anti-inflammatory balance.

CONCLUSION

MO provided substantial protection against oxidative damage and functional disturbances induced by DIC in liver and kidney tissues.

The Effect of Omega-3 on Mitigating Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage

Exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD) refers to muscle injuries following exercises involving repetitive eccentric muscle contractions. The resultant inflammation and muscle protein leakage into the circulation lead to muscle pain and strength deficit, compromising athletic performance. This narrative review summarizes the current evidence on the effect and mechanism of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA) in potentially mitigating EIMD. Several studies suggested n-3 PUFA's role in alleviating delayed-onset muscle soreness, particularly in untrained individuals and those receiving higher doses of continuous supplementation. However, its impact on muscle strength attenuation and the reduction of performance post-exercise remains inconclusive. Also unclear are n-3 PUFA's effects on the reduction of circulating pro-inflammatory substances and muscle proteins. One of the possible mechanisms is its anti-inflammatory property, which involves its ability to incorporate into cell membranes and displace prostaglandin precursor. n-3 PUFA also decreases cyclooxygenase production and can be converted into specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs), further reducing inflammation. Moreover, n-3 PUFA's incorporation into cell membranes alters cell membrane properties, diminishing protein release during muscle breakdown. n-3 PUFA exhibits analgesic effects through SPM-induced modulation of receptors and ion channels, reducing both peripheral and central sensitization. n-3 PUFA also diminishes mitochondrial free radical production and accelerates nerve conduction, thereby improving voluntary muscle activation.

Fumaric acid per se and in combination with methotrexate arrests inflammation via moderating inflammatory and oxidative stress biomarkers in arthritic rats

Objective: Fumaric acid is a dicarboxylic acid that belongs to the phenolic class enriched in fruits and vegetables that are traditionally used for the treatment of various ailments. The research was planned to find out the anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic activities of fumaric acid using in-vitro and in-vivo assays. Moreover, safety study was also done. Materials and methods: The 0.1 ml complete Freund's adjuvant was injected in left hind paw in all Wistar rats except normal rats at day 1 to induced arthritis. The treatment with fumaric acid at 10, 20, 40, and fumaric acid 40 mg/kg together with methotrexate (MTX) was administered to immunized rats at 8th day via oral gavage and continued till 28th day though, MTX was administered as standard control. Results: The fumaric acid notably (p < 0.0001) lessened the paw edema and arthritic scoring, reinstated body and immune organ weight, and oxidation status in treated rats. Fumaric acid notably restored altered C-reactive protein, rheumatoid factor, liver function tests, ESR, WBCs, RBCs and Hb levels in treated rats. The fumaric acid in combination noticeably (p < 0.01-0.0001) suppressed the expression of TNF- α, IL-6, IL-1β, NF-kβ, and COX-2, and over expressed IL-4, and IL-10 in contrast to other treated groups. Fumaric acid had presented a dose-dependent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic activities while notable activity exhibited by fumaric acid in combination with MTX. The fumaric acid exhibited non-significant clinical signs of toxicity and mortality in acute toxicity study. The LD50 was more than 2000 mg/kg. Conclusion: Fumaric acid in combination can be used as disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug but it will need extensive pre-clinical and clinical studies.

Omega 3 fatty acids preserve testicular function by ameliorating BPF-induced dysthyroidism: role of p53/Bcl-2 signaling and proton pump activities

OBJECTIVE

Bisphenol F (BPF) is an endocrinedisrupting chemical, but information about its effect on thyroid hormones has not been fully explored. Omega 3 fatty acids (O3FA), on the other hand, are antioxidant and antiapoptotic agents. Therefore, this study explored the role and associated molecular mechanism of O3FA in BPF-induced hypothyroidism-mediated testicular dysfunction in male Wistar rats.

METHODS

Twenty (20) male Wistar rats were randomized into four groups (n=5/group), namely: the control group; the BPF treated group (30 mg/kg of BPF); and the intervention groups (30mg/kg BPF + 100mg/kg O3FA (BPF+O3FA-L) and 30mg/kg BPF + 300mg/kg of O3FA for 28 days).

RESULTS

Low and high doses of O3FA ameliorated BPF-induced hypothyroidism-mediated reduction in sperm quality, testosterone, luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, catalase, superoxide dismutase, total antioxidant capacity, and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 and increases in estrogen, malondialdehyde, c-reactive protein, interleukin 1 beta, caspase 3. Furthermore, O3FA prevented BPF-induced Na+/K+-ATPase and Ca2+-ATPase dysfunction, estrogen receptor beta overexpression, and tumor protein P53 (p53)/ b-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) imbalance.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed that O3FA ameliorated BPF-induced dysthyroidism-mediated testicular dysfunction by preventing proton pump dysfunction and p53/BCl-2 imbalance.

Network Pharmacology Prediction and Experimental Validation of Ferulic Acid’s Protective Effects against Diclofenac‐Induced Liver Injury

Despite being one of the most consumed analgesics worldwide, liver injury is an adverse effect of diclofenac (DF). In pursuit of reliable hepatoprotective natural remedies, this study aimed to investigate the potential protective effect of ferulic acid (FA) and its mechanism against DF‐induced liver injury. Various network databases and datasets were used to collect targets corresponding to FA and DF‐induced liver injury. Enrichment analyses of common targets were performed, a protein‐protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed, the hub genes were identified, and the upstream miRNA interacting with the top hub gene was later predicted. A DF‐induced liver injury rat model was established to verify FA’s protective effects, and the selected hub gene expression level with its upstream regulatory miRNA and a downstream set of targets was examined to elucidate the underlying mechanism. A total of 18 genes were identified as potential targets of FA to protect against DF‐induced liver injury. Data from the enrichment and PPI analyses and the prediction of the upstream miRNAs indicated that the most worthwhile pair to study was miR‐296‐5p/Jun. In vivo findings showed that coadministration of FA significantly reduced the DF‐induced alterations in the liver function indices, oxidative stress, and liver histology. Mechanistically, FA downregulated the expression of Jun, Bim, Bax, Casp3, IL‐1β, IL‐6, and TNF‐α, whereas it upregulated the expression of rno‐miR‐296‐5p and Bcl2. In conclusion, combining network pharmacology and an in vivo study revealed that miR‐296‐5p/Jun axis could mediate the mitigative effect of FA against DF‐induced liver injury.

Allicin and Omega-3 fatty acids attenuates acetaminophen mediated renal toxicity and modulates oxidative stress, and cell apoptosis in rats

Acetaminophen (APAP), a widely used medication known for its pain-relieving and fever-reducing effects, can cause kidney failure if taken in excess. To investigate the potential protective effects of allicin (ALC) and/or omega-3 fatty acids (O3FA) against acetaminophen-induced kidney damage, a study was conducted using 49 rats divided into seven groups. The control group was given saline, while the other groups received ALC, O3FA, APAP, ALC + APAP, O3FA + APAP, or ALC + O3FA + APAP. After administering APAP, the rats showed decreased levels of total protein and albumin in their blood, along with increased levels of creatinine and urea. The concentration of reduced glutathione (GSH), as well as the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), decreased, while the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) in the renal tissues increased. The activation of caspase-3 and HSP70 also suggested an impact on kidney histopathology. Overall, the study found that ALC and/or O3FA may have a protective impact against acetaminophen-induced kidney damage through their anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and antioxidant defense systems.

Polyherbal extract improves glycometabolic control in alloxan-induced diabetic rats via down-regulating the MAPK/JNK pathway, modulating Nrf-2/Keap-1 expression, and stimulating insulin signaling

Objectives

This study focused on the evaluation of antioxidant and antidiabetic activities of polyherbal extract (PHE), containing Cassia absus (L.), Gymnema sylvestre (R. Br.), Nigella sativa (L.), and Piper nigrum (L.), in alloxan-induced diabetes model.

Materials and Methods

In vitro, HPLC characterization, DPPH scavenging assay, and α-amylase inhibition test were conducted. In vivo, acute oral toxicity of PHE was assessed. Alloxan-induced diabetic Wistar rats (n=6) were orally treated with PHE (200, 400, and 600 mg/kg/day) and glibenclamide (GLB; 10 mg/kg/day) for six consecutive weeks. Then, biochemical biomarkers, oxidative stress parameters, histopathological examination, and mRNA expression levels (RT-qPCR) were determined.

Results

The presence of polyphenols in PHE was confirmed in correlation to marked DPPH scavenging (IC50: 1.60 mg/ml) and α-amylase inhibition (IC50: 0.82 mg/ml). PHE demonstrated no toxicity in rats up to a dose of 2000 mg/kg. In diabetic rats, PHE dose-dependently ameliorated the serum levels of glucose, insulin, glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), leptin, and glucokinase (GCK). Also, PHE substantially alleviated serum inflammatory markers (TNF-α and CRP) and oxidative stress indicators (MDA, SOD, and CAT) in pancreatic tissues. PHE, particularly at 600 mg/kg, attenuated cellular oxidative stress via modulating the mRNA expression levels of genes regulating MAPK/JNK (Mapk-8, Traf-4, and Traf-6) and Nrf-2/Keap-1 pathways and promoted insulin signaling through up-regulating insulin signaling cascade (Pdx-1, Ins-1, and Ins-2), as compared to GLB. Furthermore, histopathological findings supported the aforementioned results.

Conclusion

Our study suggests that polyherbal extract has promising antioxidant and antidiabetic activities by modulating the MAPK/JNK, Nrf-2/Keap-1, and insulin signaling pathways.

Proteomic analysis of the hepatic response to a pollutant mixture in mice. The protective action of selenium

Metals and pharmaceuticals contaminate water and food worldwide, forming mixtures where they can interact to enhance their individual toxicity. Here we use a shotgun proteomic approach to evaluate the toxicity of a pollutant mixture (PM) of metals (As, Cd, Hg) and pharmaceuticals (diclofenac, flumequine) on mice liver proteostasis. These pollutants are abundant in the environment, accumulate in the food chain, and are toxic to humans primarily through oxidative damage. Thus, we also evaluated the putative antagonistic effect of low-dose dietary supplementation with the antioxidant trace element selenium. A total of 275 proteins were affected by PM treatment. Functional analyses revealed an increased abundance of proteins involved in the integrated stress response that promotes translation, the inflammatory response, carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, and the sustained expression of the antioxidative response mediated by NRF2. As a consequence, a reductive stress situation arises in the cell that inhibits the RICTOR pathway, thus activating the early stage of autophagy, impairing xenobiotic metabolism, and potentiating lipid biosynthesis and steatosis. PM exposure-induced hepato-proteostatic alterations were significantly reduced in Se supplemented mice, suggesting that the use of this trace element as a dietary supplement may at least partially ameliorate liver damage caused by exposure to environmental mixtures.

Omega 3 fatty acid improves sexual and erectile function in BPF-treated rats by upregulating NO/cGMP signaling and steroidogenic enzymes activities

Bisphenol F (BPF) is an environmental pollutant that has been implicated in sexual dysfunction. Omega 3 fatty acid (O3FA), on the other hand, is an antioxidant with the ability to improve fertility indices. However, no study has explored the possible ameliorative effect of O3FA on BPF-induced sexual dysfunction. Thus, the effect of BPF and/or O3FA on male sexual performance was investigated. Male Wistar rats were randomized into 6 groups, corn oil-treated, O3FA low and high dose (100 and 300 mg/kg), BPF-treated, BPF + O3FA low and BPF + O3FA high dose. BPF significantly impaired male sexual competence, evidenced by a reduction in motivation to mate, prolonged mount, intromission and ejaculation latency, and post-ejaculatory index. Furthermore, a reduction in mount, intromission, and ejaculation frequency were observed. Also, BPF caused a decrease in gonadotropin releasing hormone, follicle stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, testosterone, nitric oxide (NO) cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), 3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD), 17beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (17β-HSD), dopamine, and acetylcholine esterase. Furthermore, it was accompanied by a significant increase in prolactin and estrogen and poor pregnancy outcomes. These observed BPF-led alterations were abolished by O3FA administration. This study showed that O3FA ameliorates BPF-induced sexual dysfunction by upregulating NO/cGMP signaling and steroidogenic enzymes activities.

Carvacrol Exerts Anti-Inflammatory, Anti-Oxidative Stress and Hepatoprotective Effects Against Diclofenac-Induced Liver Injury in Male Rats

Background

Diclofenac (DIC) is an NSAID that can cause toxic effects in animals and humans and carvacrol (CAR) is a monoterpene compound that displays effective pharmacological and biological actions. The purpose of this work was to assess the influences of CAR on DIC-induced liver injury and oxidative stress in male rats.

Methods

The male Wistar rats were segregated into four groups. Group 1, the control group; Group 2 received DIC-only (10 mg/kg BW, p.o); Group 3, received CAR-only (10 mg/kg BW, p.o), and group 4 received DIC plus CAR. The serum levels as well as the activity of several liver-associated markers, and oxidative and anti-oxidant compounds were tested. The expression of pro-inflammatory mediators was also studied using the qRT-PCR analysis.

Results

Our results showed that DIC treatment was associated with the elevation in the serum levels of liver-related markers together with the increase in the serum and the hepatic levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and protein carbonyl (PC). Moreover, DIC reduced the activity of the antioxidant system in the rats and increased lymphocyte infiltration into the hepatocytes. CAR; however, protected the hepatocytes from the toxic effects of DIC by enhancing the activity of antioxidant enzymes such as catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and Glutathione (GSH). By diminishing the expression of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, CAR was also capable of preventing the inflammatory effects of DIC on liver cells.

Conclusions

The findings of this study indicated that the administration of CAR could alleviate the noxious effects of DIC on the antioxidant defense system and liver tissue.

Chrysin mitigates diclofenac-induced hepatotoxicity by modulating oxidative stress, apoptosis, autophagy and endoplasmic reticulum stress in rats

BACKGROUND

Diclofenac (DF) is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) generally prescribed for the treatment of pain. In spite of the widespread use of DF, hepatotoxicity has been reported after its administration. The current study discloses new evidence as regards of the curative effects of chrysin (CHR) on DF-induced hepatotoxicity by regulating oxidative stress, apoptosis, autophagy, and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress.

METHODS

The animals were separated into five different groups. Group-I was in control. Group-II received CHR-only (50 mg/kg bw, p.o.) on all 5 days. Group-III received DF-only (50 mg/kg bw, i.p.) on 4th and 5th day. Group-IV received DF (50 mg/kg bw) + CHR (25 mg/kg, bw) and group-V received DF (50 mg/kg, bw) + CHR (50 mg/kg, bw) for 5 days.

RESULTS

DF injection was associated with increased MDA while reduced GSH level, activities of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase and mRNA levels of HO-1 and Nrf2 in the liver. DF injection caused apoptosis and autophagy in the liver by up-regulating caspase-3, Bax, LC3A, and LC3B levels and down-regulating Bcl-2. DF also caused ER stress by increasing mRNA transcript levels of ATF-6, IRE1, PERK, and GRP78. Additionally, it was observed that DF administration up-regulated MMP2 and MMP9. However, treatment with CHR at a dose of 25 and 50 mg/kg considerably ameliorated oxidative stress, apoptosis, autophagy, and ER stress in liver tissue.

CONCLUSION

Overall, the data of this study indicate that liver damage associated with DF toxicity could be ameliorated by CHR administration.

Direct photolysis of diclofenac under simulated sunlight: Transformation pathway and biological concerns

Topical diclofenac gels are frequently applied on human skin and, consequently are exposed to sunlight during outdoor activities. The degradation of diclofenac (DCF) with sunlight exposure is known to occur but the detailed transformation characteristics and biological concerns have not been comprehensively investigated. In the present work, the transformation products during diclofenac photolysis were identified with the aid of ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with triple time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-TripleTOF). Biological concerns, including microtoxicity, genotoxicity, cytotoxicity and antiestrogenicity were examined with multiple in-vitro bioassays. Spearman correlation analysis was conducted to obtain further insight into the contributions of photolysis products to overall biological concerns. The results demonstrated that diclofenac was readily degraded under sunlight to form five main photolysis products via substitution, dechlorination, dehydroxylation, homodimerization and heterodimerization. Products P1, P2 and P5 were reported previously, while two dimer products (P3 and P4) are innovative products and have not been found in prior studies. A significant elevation in the microtoxicity was found during the photolysis of diclofenac, resulting mainly from the carbazole-containing photolysis products P2, P3, P4 and P5. Genotoxicity and antiestrogenicity declined along with the reduction of diclofenac, indicating that no photolysis products were genotoxic or anti-estrogenic. Modest cytotoxicity to the human skin epidermis cell line was observed and attributed to the formation of intermediate species. This outcome highlighted the biological concerns of diclofenac to human health when exposed to sunlight.

Development and Challenges of Diclofenac-Based Novel Therapeutics: Targeting Cancer and Complex Diseases

Simple Summary

Diclofenac is a widely used drug for its anti-inflammatory and pain alleviating properties. This review summarizes the current understanding about the drug diclofenac. The potential applications of diclofenac beyond its well-known anti-inflammatory properties for other diseases such as cancer are discussed, along with existing limitations.

Abstract

Diclofenac is a highly prescribed non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that relieves inflammation, pain, fever, and aches, used at different doses depending on clinical conditions. This drug inhibits cyclooxygenase-1 and cyclooxygenase-2 enzymes, which are responsible for the generation of prostaglandin synthesis. To improve current diclofenac-based therapies, we require new molecular systematic therapeutic approaches to reduce complex multifactorial effects. However, the critical challenge that appears with diclofenac and other drugs of the same class is their side effects, such as signs of stomach injuries, kidney problems, cardiovascular issues, hepatic issues, and diarrhea. In this article, we discuss why defining diclofenac-based mechanisms, pharmacological features, and its medicinal properties are needed to direct future drug development against neurodegeneration and imperfect ageing and to improve cancer therapy. In addition, we describe various advance molecular mechanisms and fundamental aspects linked with diclofenac which can strengthen and enable the better designing of new derivatives of diclofenac to overcome critical challenges and improve their applications.

Protective role of ellagic acid and taurine against fluoxetine induced hepatotoxic effects on biochemical and oxidative stress parameters, histopathological changes, and gene expressions of IL-1β, NF-κB, and TNF-α in male Wistar rats

PURPOSES

Hepatic bioactivation of fluoxetine (FXN) could increase free radicals' generation provoking hepatotoxicity. Therefore, the protective effects of ellagic acid (EA) and taurine (TAU) treatments against fluoxetine-induced liver damage in rats were examined.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sixty four male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to 8 groups (n = 8). Group (1) Control, group (2) FXN, group (3) FXN + EA, group (4) FXN + TAU, group (5) FXN + EA + TAU, group (6) EA, group (7) TAU, and group (8) EA + TAU. Then, the serum and tissue parameters of the oxidative stress were examined.

KEY FINDINGS

FXN significantly raised serum MDA, protein carbonyl, lipid profile, ALT, AST, ALP, total bilirubin, serum IL-1β; and gene expressions of IL-1β, NF-κB, and TNF-α. Moreover, it significantly decreased HDL-C, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), catalase activity, vitamin C, and SOD activity in the liver compared to group 1. When compared to group 2, EA and TAU treatment dramatically increased antioxidant capacity and lowered hepatotoxic biochemical markers and cellular inflammation. Results also showed a protective effect of treatment against oxidative damage caused by hepatocytes' cytoarchitecture.

SIGNIFICANCE

Our study concluded the beneficial effects of EA and TAU on FXN-induced hepatotoxicity. These effects were derived from free radical scavenging properties and the anti-inflammatory effects related to IL-1β, NF-κB, and TNF-α gene expression inhibition.

Hepatoprotective Effect of Coenzyme Q10 in Rats with Diclofenac Toxicity

The liver and kidney are the most important organs in the body, and they both act as target structures for drug-induced injury as a consequence of their functions in metabolisms, detoxifications, storage, elimination of medications, and their metabolites. The present study aimed to examine the role of the natural and free radical scavenger "CoQ10" against diclofenac-induced hepatic and renal tissue injury. In total, 36 adult Wistar rats were randomly divided into three equal groups (n=12). The animals in the control group did not receive any medication or treatments, and the second group included animals that received intramuscular (IM) injection of Diclofenac (DF) (at a dose of 10 mg/kg once daily for 14 days). Moreover, the third group was given the IM injection of DF (at a dose of 10 mg/kg once daily for 14 days) +CoQ10. After 14 days, DF prompted signified hepatic and renal injury indicated by elevated biochemical parameters, such as total serum bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, and uric acid, compared to the control and the third group. However, the group that received Diclofenac+CoQ10 had significantly lower hepatic and renal dysfunctions, compared to the second treated group. DF toxic effects could be the consequences of mitochondrial dysfunction and free radical effects. Remarkably, therapeutic supplementation of CoQ10 diminished the DF-induced toxic oxidative injury and apoptotic cell death. The protective effects of CoQ10 were attributed to its antioxidants and free radical scavenger activity.

Hepatorenal protective activity of Artemisia against diclofenac toxicity in male rats

Introduction

Artemisia is one of the important alternative treatments for many diseases, as well as the prevention of the effect of oxidizing substances that cause damage to the various organs of the body, including the liver and kidneys. The kidney and the liver are considered the body's most critical organs, and their functions in storage, metabolism, detoxification and elimination of medications, and their metabolic products make them target structures for "drug-induced" harm. The goal of this investigation was to see if Artemisia extract might protect hepatic and renal tissues from diclofenac-induced damage.

Methods

a total of 40 adult Wistar rats were separated equally into four groups randomly. The rats of the control group got only distilled water orally without medicine or therapy, while those in the second group administrated 100mg/kg/day of Artemisia orally for one month. The third group received 10mg/kg/day of Diclofenac (DF) orally. The fourth group received 10mg/kg/day of DF and 100mg/kg day of Artemisia orally. After one month, kidney parameters (albumin, creatinine, and urea) and liver parameters (aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP)) were measured.

Results

the results revealed increasing in the kidney (albumin, creatinine, and urea) parameters and liver parameters (AST, ALT, and ALP) in the group treated with diclofenac compared to the control group while they decreased significantly (p≤0.05) in diclofenac + Artemisia group comparing to diclofenac group.

Conclusion

we conclude from these results that Artemisia may have a role in reducing the toxic effect of diclofenac on kidney and liver by decreasing the liver enzymes and kidney criteria in the blood. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the role of Artemisia to reduce the toxic effect of diclofenac on liver and kidney.

Amelioration of the hepatotoxic effects of nonsteroidal drugs using vitamin C and determination of their relationship with the lipid profile

Objective

Despite the various clinical benefits of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, their frequent and prolonged use has led to numerous health risks, including hepatotoxicity. Hepatotoxicity mediated by oxidative stress can affect the lipid profile. The objective was to investigate whether post-treatment with vitamin C can ameliorate the effects of diclofenac and naproxen in the livers of prepubertal rats and to highlight their relationship with lipid profile.

Methods

Forty prepubertal female albino rats were distributed among the control group, the diclofenac-administered group (5 mg/kg/day), and the naproxen-administered group (50 mg/kg/day). This study included two phases. In Phase 1, only five rats from each group were dissected after 21 days of oral administration to assess the hepatotoxic effects of nonsteroidal drugs. In Phase 2, five of the remaining animals in each intervention group were post-treated with 25 mg/kg/day of vitamin C for an additional 21 days. After the administration and post-treatment, serum biochemical parameters and histopathological signs were evaluated.

Results

Extreme elevation in the levels of aspartate and alanine aminotransferases was observed in the diclofenac and naproxen groups compared with those in the control (p < 0.001). In addition, the levels of high- and low-density lipoproteins were significantly impacted in these drug groups (p < 0.01, p < 0.05 respectively). Several pathological signs in the liver histology were observed in both drug groups. After post-treatment with vitamin C, noticeable amelioration of these alterations was observed. There were slightly elevation in the liver enzymes and insignificant increase and decrease in the high and low-density lipoproteins respectively.

Conclusion

Vitamin C post-treatment ameliorated the hepatotoxicity induced by diclofenac sodium and naproxen.

Effect of omega-3 fatty acids supplementation on indirect blood markers of exercise-induced muscle damage: Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Omega 3 fatty acids supplementation may have an attenuative effect on exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD) through the cell membrane stabilization. The purpose of the present meta-analysis was to evaluate the effects of omega 3 fatty acids supplementation, on indirect blood markers of muscle damage following EIMD in trained and untrained individuals.

METHODS

Scopus, Medline, and Google scholar systematically searched up to January 2021. The Cochrane Collaboration tool was used for the quality of studies. Random-effects model, weighted mean difference (WMD), and 95% confidence interval (CI) were applied for the overall effect estimating. The heterogeneity between studies was evaluated applying the chi-squared and I2 statistic.

RESULTS

The outcomes showed a significant effect of omega 3 supplementation on reducing creatine kinase (CK), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and myoglobin (Mb) concentrations. In addition, a subgroup analysis indicated a significant reduction in CK, LDH, and Mb concentrations, based on follow-ups after exercise, studies duration, time of supplementation, and training status.

CONCLUSION

The current meta-analysis indicated an efficacy of omega 3 in reducing CK, LDH, and Mb serum concentration among healthy individuals, overall and in subgroups analysis. Thus, omega 3 should be considered as a priority EIMD recovery agent in interventions.

Synthesis of encapsulated fish oil using whey protein isolate to prevent the oxidative damage and cytotoxicity of titanium dioxide nanoparticles in rats

Fish oil exhibited several beneficial effects on human health; however, its applications face several challenges such as its effects on the organoleptic properties of food and its susceptibility to oxidation. Titanium dioxide NPs (TiO2-NPs) are utilized widely in pharmaceutical and food applications although there are some reports about their oxidative damage to living organisms. The current work was undertaken to identify fatty acids content in mullet fish oil, encapsulation, and characterization of the oil, and to assess the protective efficiency of the encapsulated mullet fish oil (EMFO) against the oxidative damage and genotoxicity of TiO2-NPs in rats. Sixty female Sprague-Dawley rats were distributed to 6 groups and treated for 21 days included the control group; TiO2-NPs-treated group (50 mg/kg b.w); the groups treated with EMFO (50 or 100 mg/kg b.w) and the groups received TiO2-NPs plus EMFO at the low or high dose. Samples of blood, liver, and kidney were taken for different assays and histological studies. The GC-FID analysis showed that a total of 14 different fatty acids were found in Mullet fish oil included 41.4% polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), 31.1% monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), and 25.1% saturated fatty acids (SFAs). The structure of EMFO was spherical with an average diameter of 234.5 nm and a zeta potential of -6.24 mV and was stable up to 10 days at 25 °C with EE of 81.08%. The PV of EMFO was decreased at 5 days then increased at 15 days; however, TBARS was increased throughout the storage time over 15 days. The biological evaluation showed that TiO2-NPs disturb the hepato-nephro functions, lipid profile, inflammatory cytokines, oxidative stress markers, antioxidant enzymes activity, and their corresponding gene expression along with severe pathological alterations in both hepatic and renal tissue. Co-administration of EMFO induced a strong antioxidant role, and the high level could normalize the majority of the parameters tested and the histological picture of the hepatic and renal tissues. These results pointed out that the encapsulation technology enhances the protective role of EMFO against oxidative stress and genotoxicity of TiO2-NPs through the prevention of ω-3 PUFAs oxidation and controlling their release.

Cefepime and diclofenac sodium combined treatment-potentiated multiple organ injury: Role of oxidative damage and disrupted lipid metabolism

Concurrent exposure to antimicrobial and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is usually inevitable in most infections and postsurgery. Consequently, the present study was designed to assess the intertwining impact of coadministration of cefepime (CP, a wide spectrum antibiotic) and diclofenac sodium (DF, an NSAID) on rat's liver, kidney, and testes. Rats received saline, CP (180 mg/kg/day, IM), DF (10 mg/kg/day, IM), or a combination of CP and DF. After 14 days, CP or DF induced tissue damage expressed by marked biochemical alterations in hepatic and renal function tests. Besides this, disrupted lipid metabolism and testosterone levels along with significant histological changes in hepatic, renal, and testicular tissues were noticed. A significant increase in malondialdehyde and decreases in superoxide dismutase and catalase activities alongside significant upregulated caspase 3 expression in tissues following CP or DF treatment suggested a bearable influence of oxidative stress, lipid peroxidation, and cell death. Accordingly, the simultaneous therapy of CP and DF evoked more obvious tissue damage than their individual treatment. Overall, data concluded that concurrent use of CP and DF in medical practice is a worrisome matter, so it should be done cautiously to avoid synergistic deleterious outcomes.

Pharmacological support to anti-arthritic prospective of physostigmine: a new approach

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a slowly progressing inflammatory autoimmune disease. Several features are involved in the RA pathogenesis in addition to environmental and genetic factors. Previously it has been reported that acetyl cholinesterase (AChE) activity is enhanced in old age and may contribute in the progression of RA. The current experimental work was projected to assess the activity of physostigmine (a cholinesterase inhibitor) for treatment of RA. In vitro and in vivo approaches were used for such evaluation. However, enzyme linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) was performed to determine the concentrations of Prostaglandins E2 (PGE2) and tumor necrosis factor-α in arthritic rats after treatment with physostigmine. Moreover, anti-oxidant assays were employed to calculate the level of super oxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase peroxidase (CAT) in tissue of treated animals. The results claimed the dose dependent protective and stabilizing effect of physostigmine on denaturation of albumin (egg and bovine serum) protein and human red blood cell membrane, respectively, through in vitro studies. Furthermore, the physostigmine (10 and 20 mg/kg) significantly (p < 0.001) reduced the swelling of paw after induction of arthritis with formaldehyde or complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) as compared to arthritic control animals. Moreover, significant (p < 0.001) reduction in the levels of inflammatory markers (PGE2 and TNF-α) at doses of 10 and 20 mg/kg of physostigmine has been observed in ELISA test. Likewise, there was a prominent rise in levels of SOD and CAT in animals treated with physostigmine. These findings pharmacologically conclude the anti-arthritic effect of physostigmine.

Anti-arthritic activity of Ricinus communis L. and Withania somnifera L. extracts in adjuvant-induced arthritic rats via modulating inflammatory mediators and subsiding oxidative stress

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to evaluate the anti-arthritic activity of Ricinus communis leaves' and Withania somnifera roots' hydroalcoholic extracts in Complete Freund's adjuvant-induced arthritis in Wistar rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

HPLC and FT-IR analysis detected pharmacologically important phytocompounds in both plant extracts. Oral treatments including methotrexate (MTX; 3 mg/kg twice a week) and extracts at 250 and 500 mg/kg/day were initiated after arthritis induction. Changes in paw swelling, arthritic score, body weight, organ indices (thymus and spleen), hematological and biochemical parameters, and pro-/anti-inflammatory cytokine expression using qRT-PCR were assessed. Oxidative stress markers in hepatic tissue were determined. Histopathological and radiological examinations were also performed.

RESULTS

RCE (R. communis extract) and WSE (W. somnifera extract) demonstrated a reduction in paw swelling, arthritic score, and restoration of body weight and organ indices. Hematological parameters, serum inflammatory markers such as CRP and RF, and liver function markers of arthritic rats were significantly (P<0.01) ameliorated with RCE and WSE treatment. Both plants persuasively down-regulated IL-1β, IL-6, IL-17a, TNF-α, and RANKL and up-regulated IL-4, INF-γ, and OPG relative expression as well as alleviating hepatic oxidative stress parameters. Histopathological and radiological findings revealed a marked reduction in tissue inflammation and bone erosion in extracts treated groups.

CONCLUSION

The study findings suggest that R. communis leaves and W. somnifera roots have markedly subsided inflammation and improved health through modulating pro-/anti-inflammatory cytokine expression and reducing oxidative stress.

Hepatoprotective effects of silymarin against diclofenac-induced liver toxicity in male rats based on biochemical parameters and histological study

Diclofenac (DIC) is a phenyl acetic acid derivative which is well known for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory. In our study, the rats were divided into four groups. Group 1, control group; Group 2 received DIC-only; Groups 3 and 4 received DIC plus silymarin. The results showed that levels of CAT, SOD, GPx and GSH significantly reduced and levels of ALT, AST, ALP, total bilirubin, nitrite content, MDA, serum TNF-α and TNF-α gene expression were significantly elevated in second group compared to control group. In other hand, treatment with silymarin resulted in a significant elevation in CAT, SOD, GPx, GSH and a significant reduction in MDA, ALT, AST, ALP, total bilirubin, nitrite content, serum TNF-α, and gene expression of TNF-α in comparison with second group. Histopathological injuries were also improved by silymarin administration. The results confirm that silymarin has a protective effect on DIC-induced liver toxicity and oxidative stress in male rats.

Hepatoprotective effect of Omega-3 PUFAs against acute paracetamol-induced hepatic injury confirmed by FTIR

Acute paracetamol over dose-induced hepatotoxicity is considered an important medical hazard especially among women. Omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (Omega-3 PUFAs) daily doses are nowadays recommended for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potentials. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy is considered a reliable method in analyzing cellular alterations and is now efficiently used to diagnose several diseases and the efficacy of drugs even in the early stages. The aim of our study was to evaluate the hepatoprotective effect of Omega-3 PUFAs against paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity in rats confirmed through measuring protein alterations in hepatocytes by FTIR. Rats were pretreated with Omega-3 PUFAs (50 and 100 mg/kg) for 21 days prior to oral ingestion of paracetamol. FTIR results revealed that Omega-3 PUFAs (50 mg/kg) limited the toxic effects of paracetamol by restoring the hepatic amide I to amide II ratio. In addition; biochemical analyses demonstrated that serum ALT, AST, Cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol and Il-6 levels as well as hepatic TNF-α, MDA, NOx levels were decreased. Besides; serum HDL-cholesterol level and hepatic GSH level were increased. Histopathological examinations of hepatic sections validated the hepatoprotective potential. The overall effect of this dose was comparable to those of the usual recommended hepatoprotective supplement; silymarin. In conclusion; it would be recommended to use Omega-3 PUFAs in low doses on daily bases as a hepatoprotective agent.

Toxicity of diclofenac sodium salt in Yucatan minipigs (Sus scrofa) following 4 weeks of daily intramuscular administration

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Four-week repeated-dose toxicity of intramuscular DSS was studied in minipigs.

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DSS administration at ≥10 mg/kg/day causes toxicity and injection-site reaction.

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The NOAEL of DSS after 4-week administration was 2 mg/kg/day in minipigs.

Diclofenac sodium salt (DSS) is a widely used nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug. The present study was performed under good laboratory practice (GLP) regulations to investigate the toxicity of DSS after 4 weeks of repeated intramuscular administration at doses of 0, 2, 10, or 20 mg/kg/day in 32 minipigs and to evaluate the DSS effect following a 2-week recovery period. Dose-related clinical signs and alterations of hematological or clinical chemistry parameters, organ weight, and macroscopic as well as histopathological findings in hepatic, renal, gastrointestinal, skin and injection sites were observed in both sexes’ animals of the 10 or 20 mg/kg/day group. With the exception of the skin-related findings, most symptoms showed a tendency to resolve after the 2-week recovery period. The systemic exposure (AUC_last) of DSS in plasma showed similar pattern to the increase rate of the dose and similar values between males and females except for the female 20 mg/kg dose group (56 %) on Day1. The systemic exposure showed a decreasing trend in the 10 or 20 mg/kg group after 4-week of repeated administration compared to Day1. The no-observed-adverse-effect level of DSS in this study was considered to be 2 mg/kg/day in both male and female minipigs.

Cinnamon Aqueous Extract Attenuates Diclofenac Sodium and Oxytetracycline Mediated Hepato-Renal Toxicity and Modulates Oxidative Stress, Cell Apoptosis, and Inflammation in Male Albino Rats

Among commonly consumed anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial drugs are diclofenac sodium (DFS) and oxytetracycline (OTC), especially in developing countries because they are highly effective and cheap. However, the concomitant administration of anti-inflammatory drugs with antibiotics may exaggerate massive toxic effects on many organs. Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum, Cin) is considered one of the most broadly utilized plants with various antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions. This study aimed to evaluate the possible protective effects of cinnamon aqueous extract (Cin) against DFS and OTC hepato-renal toxicity. Eight groups (8/group) of adult male albino rats were treated orally for 15 days with physiological saline (control), Cin aqueous extract (300 mg/kg b.w.), OTC (200 mg/kg b.w.), single dose of DFS at the 14th day (100 mg/kg b.w.), DFS + OTC, Cin + DFS, Cin + OTC, and Cin + DFS + OTC. The administration of DFS and/or OTC significantly increased (p < 0.05) the serum levels of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, urea, creatinine, and uric acid. Serum levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, as well as hepatic and renal malondialdehyde and nitric oxide metabolites, were also raised following DFS and OTC administration. Meanwhile, the activities of reduced glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and catalase in liver and kidney were significantly suppressed in DFS, OTC, and DFS + OTC treated rats. Moreover, hepatic and renal tissue sections from these rats exhibited overexpression of caspase-3 and cyclooxygenase-II on immunohistochemical investigation. The administration of Cin aqueous extract ameliorated the aforementioned deteriorations caused by DFS, OTC, and their combination. Conclusively, Cin is a promising protective plant extract capable of attenuating the oxidative damage, apoptosis, and inflammation induced by DFS and OTC either alone or combined, on hepatic and renal tissues.

Polystichum braunii extracts inhibit Complete Freund's adjuvant-induced arthritis via upregulation of I-κB, IL-4, and IL-10, downregulation of COX-2, PGE2, IL-1β, IL-6, NF-κB, and TNF-α, and subsiding oxidative stress

Polystichum braunii (Spenn.) Fée is a traditional remedy for rheumatoid arthritis, a chronic inflammatory disorder of polygenetic origin. The current project was intended to demonstrate the role of inflammatory and oxidative stress biomarkers in the anti-arthritic activity of the P. braunii extracts. Methanolic and aqueous extracts of the plant roots were prepared by triple maceration. The phytochemical evaluation of the plant extracts was carried out by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The plant extracts at 150, 300, and 600 mg/kg/day and piroxicam (10 mg/kg/day) were orally administered to Wistar rats for 21 days that were previously immunized with Complete Freund's adjuvant (150 µl on right hind paw) except normal and arthritic control rats. Both plant extracts mitigated the paw oedema, restored the immune organ and body weights, and ameliorated the level of blood parameters such as haemoglobin, red blood cells, platelets, white blood cells, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), C-reactive proteins, and rheumatoid factor. The evaluation of gene expression using quantitative-real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) revealed the substantial downregulation of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, Interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, cyclo-oxygenase (COX)-2, nuclear factor (NF)-κB, and upregulation of IL-4, IL-10 and I-κB in polyarthritic rats treated with the plant extracts. Methanolic plant extract exhibited the maximum effect on upregulation of IL-4 (79 ± 3%), IL-10 (62.66 ± 4.93%), and I-κB (73.66 ± 3.05%) at 600 mg/kg/day. Treatment with the plant extracts also reduced the level of prostaglandin E2 and TNF-α in the serum of arthritic rats' dose dependently. It was also found that the plant extracts and piroxicam increased (p < 0.05) the activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase in the liver tissue while reduced the level of malondialdehyde in arthritic rats. Histological examination of ankle joints revealed that the plant extracts decreased the pannus formation, inflammation, and synovial hyperplasia in arthritic animals. HPLC analysis depicted that the plant extracts had contained kaempferol, quercetin, gallic acid, and other phenolic acids. It can be elucidated from the results that the extracts of P. braunii roots exhibited anti-arthritic activity in Wistar rats through modulation of inflammatory cytokines and boosting the antioxidant defense mechanism.

Gallic acid mitigates diclofenac-induced liver toxicity by modulating oxidative stress and suppressing IL-1β gene expression in male rats

CONTEXT

Diclofenac (DIC) is an NSAID and consumption of this drug creates side effects such as liver injury. Gallic acid (GA), a natural component of many plants, is used as an antioxidant agent.

OBJECTIVE

This study assesses the hepatoprotective effects of GA in the rat model of DIC-induced liver toxicity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this research, the male Wistar rats were separated into five groups (n = 6). Group 1, control, received normal saline (1 mL/kg bw, i.p.); Group 2 received DIC-only (50 mg/kg bw, i.p.); Groups 3, received DIC (50 mg/kg bw, i.p.) plus silymarin (100 mg/kg bw, po), groups 4 and 5 received DIC (50 mg/kg bw, i.p.) plus GA (50 and 100 mg/kg, po, respectively).

RESULTS

The data demonstrated that the liver levels of the GSH, GPx, SOD, and CAT significantly reduced and the levels of the serum protein carbonyl, AST, ALP, ALT, total bilirubin, MDA, serum IL-1β, and the liver IL-1β gene expression were remarkably increased in the second group compared to control group. On the other hand, treatment with GA led to a significant elevation in GSH, GPx, SOD, CAT, and a significant decrease in protein carbonyl, AST, ALP, ALT, total bilirubin, MDA, serum IL-1β, and gene expression of IL-1β in comparison with the second group. Histological changes were also ameliorated by GA oral administration. Discussion and Conclusions: The data show that the oral administration of GA could alleviate the noxious effects of DIC on the antioxidant defense system and liver tissue.

HPLC analysis, cytotoxicity, and safety study of Moringa oleifera Lam. (wild type) leaf extract

The study was planned to evaluate toxicity of M. oleifera leaf methanol extract in Wistar rats, cytotoxic potential and chemically characterize it. Acute toxicity study revealed no mortality at 2,000 mg/kg dose. In subchronic toxicity, 150, 300, and 600 mg/kg extract were administered in both sexes for 90 days. A decrease in body weight, cholesterol, and low-density lipoproteins, as well as an increase in the platelet count were observed. The histology of heart, lung, and kidney was normal. The oxidative stress biomarkers were normal in the liver tissue. In vitro cytotoxicity assay revealed that IC50 of the plant extract was more than 1,000 µg/ml. FTIR explored various functional groups and HPLC analysis indicated the presence of kaempferol and quercetin in the plant extract. These results showed that the plant extract might be safe up to 2,000 mg/kg single dose. The long term use of the plant extract was mostly devoid of major system toxicities. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: M. oleifera is a multipurpose tree. It is a cruciferous plant that has nutritional as well as medicinal properties. It is exhibited a multitude of nutraceutical or pharmacological properties such as anti-inflammatory, lipid-lowering, anticancer, hypoglycemic, and antihypertensive activities. It is widely used by local inhabitants for their health, food, agriculture, and cosmetic purposes. Among other plant parts, its leaves are mostly used as a functional food because of abundant proteins, β-carotene, polyphenol, vitamin C, and vitamin E. The current study was designed to validate its safety in acute and long term use. The data of this study suggested that the plant can be safely used as a nutraceutical as well as a nutritional food.

Effect of Carotenoids from Phaeodactylum tricornutum on Palmitate-Treated HepG2 Cells

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease represents the most common liver disease and is characterized by an excess of lipid accumulation in hepatocytes, mainly stored as triglycerides. Phaeodactylum tricornutum is a marine microalga, which is rich in bioactive molecules known to be hepatoprotective, such as n-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids and fucoxanthin. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of a carotenoid extract from P. tricornutum in a cellular model of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease induced by palmitate treatment. The combined effects of carotenoids and lipids, especially n-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, were also investigated by using a total lipophilic extract. HepG2 cells were exposed for 24 h to 250 µM palmitate with or without the addition of carotenoid extract (6 μg/mL) or total lipophilic extract (100 μg/mL). The addition of carotenoid extract or total lipophilic extract prevented the accumulation of triglycerides, total cholesterol and cholesterol esters. The carotenoid extract and total lipophilic extract also decreased the mRNA expression levels of genes involved in lipogenesis (ACACA, FASN, SCD and DGAT1) and cholesterol esterification (ACAT1/SOAT1). In addition, the total lipophilic extract also downregulated the LXR/NR1H3 and SREBF1 genes, which are involved in lipogenesis regulation. By contrast, the carotenoid extract increased the mRNA level of CPT1A, a β-oxidation related gene, and reduced the lipid droplet accumulation. In conclusion, this study highlights the preventive effects against non-alcoholic fatty liver disease of the two microalga extracts.

Selenium attenuates diclofenac-induced testicular and epididymal toxicity in rats

The adverse effect of diclofenac administration on the male reproductive organ in both humans and rats has been reported. Selenium, a trace element vital in nutrition, plays a significant part in cellular redox homeostasis, including male reproduction. However, the impact of selenium on male reproductive toxicity associated with diclofenac administration is lacking in the literature. The current investigation assessed the modulatory effects of selenium on diclofenac-mediated reproductive toxicity in rats. Rats were treated for fourteen consecutive days, either with diclofenac (10 mg/kg) or co-treated with selenium (0.125 and 0.25 mg/kg) body weight. Sperm parameters, enzymes of testicular function, luteinizing, follicle-stimulating hormone and testosterone were assessed in addition to oxidative stress indices and histopathological changes. Selenium significantly alleviated diclofenac-induced decreases in sperm count and motility, testicular function enzymes and levels of luteinizing hormone and testosterone in serum. Moreover, selenium co-administration at 0.125 and 0.25 mg/kg inhibited the diclofenac-induced decrease of antioxidant enzyme activities and increased oxidative stress parameters-lipid peroxidation, reactive nitrogen and oxygen species-in epididymis and testes of rats. Selenium (0.25 mg/kg) alone ameliorated diclofenac-mediated histological injuries in exposed rats. Collectively, selenium enhanced testicular and epididymal function in diclofenac-treated rats by suppressing nitrosative and oxidative stress in rats.

Comparative study of the effects of Cassia spectabilis and Newbouldia laevis leaf extracts on diclofenac-induced hepatorenal oxidative damage in rats

Background

There is high incidence of liver and kidney diseases worldwide but medicinal plants may provide remedy. This study evaluated and compared the protective effects of Cassia spectabilis extract (CSE) and Newbouldia laevis extract (NLE) against diclofenac (DF) induced hepatorenal oxidative damage in rats.

Methods

Twenty four rats were divided into 4 groups with 6 rats in each. Normal saline was given to the rats in group I while those in groups III and IV were treated with 250 mg/kg b. wt. CSE and NLE respectively for 28 days by oral gavages. Those in groups II to IV were exposed to 10 mg/kg DF in the last 7 days of treatment. Serum was separated from the blood and used for estimations of hepatorenal injury markers while the homogenized tissue supernatants were used for assays of oxidative stress markers.

Results

There was a significant (p < 0.01) increase in the levels of ALT, AST, GGT, MDA, creatinine and BUN but a significant (p < 0.01) decrease in the levels of SOD, CAT, GPx, GST, GSH and G6Pase of DF-exposed rats when compared with normal control. However, treatment of DF-exposed rats with CSE and NLE significantly (p < 0.01) increased the levels of SOD, CAT, GPx, GST, GSH, and G6Pase but significantly (p < 0.01) reduced the levels of ALT, AST, GGT, MDA, creatinine and BUN when compared with DF control.

Conclusion

The current findings showed that treatments with CSE and NLE may have protective effects against DF-induced hepatorenal oxidative damage in rats, attributed to certain phytochemicals, but CSE has greater bioactivity than NLE.

Nephroprotective activity of virgin coconut oil on diclofenac-induced oxidative nephrotoxicity is associated with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in rats

OBJECTIVE

Diclofenac is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug linked with considerable organ toxicity caused via increased generation of reactive oxygen species. We evaluated whether the antioxidant effect of virgin coconut oil (VCO) could prevent diclofenac-induced oxidative nephrotoxicity in rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Randomized rats were pre-supplemented orally with VCO (5 or 10 ml/kg body weight) from day 1 to 24, and injected with normal saline or diclofenac (100 mg/kg) from day 22 to day 24 intraperitoneally.

RESULTS

Diclofenac significantly (p<0.05) increased serum urea and creatinine levels. Renal tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels markedly (p<0.05) increased, whereas renal glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities considerably (p<0.05) decreased compared to normal control. Histopathological alterations were caused by diclofenac. However, treatment with oral VCO for 21 days prior to diclofenac administration, attenuated histological renal damage, and restored antioxidant enzyme activities and TNF-α levels in kidney.

CONCLUSION

These findings revealed that VCO has potential benefits to prevent diclofenac-induced nephrotoxic damage.

Investigation of the effects of dietary modification in experimental obesity: low dose of virgin coconut oil has a potent therapeutic value

There is no report in literature on possible physiological changes that accompany dietary modification in obese condition. Moreover, there is no conclusive evidence on the optimal amount of virgin coconut oil (VCO) that could be of health benefit, although it is known to enhance lipid metabolism. Therefore, we investigated the antiobesitogenic action of graded doses of VCO (200, 400 and 600 mg/kg) in obese rats fed with normo/hyper-lipidaemic diet. Sixty rats (n = 10) were divided into 6 groups and treated as follows: the control and high fat diet (HFD) groups were administered normal saline (0.1 mL/day, p.o.) during the last four weeks of the study, and were fed with normal and HFD respectively throughout the twenty weeks duration of the experiment. Groups 3-6 were fed with HFD for 16 weeks, then normal diet during the next 4 weeks. While group - 3 received saline (0.1 mL/day, p.o.) during the last four weeks, groups 4-6 received graded doses of VCO. The results showed that HFD-induced obesity caused impaired glucose homeostasis, distorted hepatic histoarchitecture, selected deviations in hepatic function indices, pro-inflammatory, pro-oxidant, and dsylipidaemic effects. There were evidence of escalated and reversed pathological actions following the replacement of HFD with normal diet. VCO showed no effect on glucose, insulin, insulin resistance, total protein, uric acid and TAC; but equitable effects on CAT, IL-6, CRP, ALT, AST & GGT, irrespective of the dose. Compared to the effects of VCO at 400 and 600 mg/kg, at 200 mg/kg, VCO had more significant therapeutic effects on LDH, MDA, SOD, GPX, TC, TG, LDL-C, total bilirubin, atherogenic and lee indices and hepatic histoarchitecture. Conclusively, VCO, preferably at a low dose could be used to reverse hepatic structural alteration and some biochemical deviations following dietary modifications in obese condition.

Protective effect of royal jelly against diclofenac-induced hepato-renal damage and gastrointestinal ulcerations in rats

Objective

Evaluation of traditionally used royal jelly (RJ) for the management of hepato-renal damage and gastrointestinal ulcerations caused by diclofenac.

Methods

Forty adult male Wistar rats were allocated into four groups. Rats of the 1^st group received only saline and served as normal group. The remaining 3 groups received diclofenac (50 mg/kg/day, I.P.) for 7 days. Group 2 served as diclofenac-control group. Groups 3 and 4 received RJ (150 and 300 mg/kg/day, P.O.) respectively for 30 days. Twenty-four hours after the last treatment, blood samples were collected, rats were sacrificed, and livers, kidneys, stomachs & intestines were harvested. Stomachs and intestines were tested for ulcer counts. Serum levels of AST, ALT, creatinine and urea were investigated. Hepatic, renal, gastric and intestinal tissue contents of myeloperoxidase (MPO) and prostaglandin-E2 (PGE2) were measured. Histopathological examinations were also performed followed by immunohistochemical determination of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression.

Results

Diclofenac administration caused significant deterioration of all the above mentioned parameters. RJ improved hepatic and renal functions. Gastric and intestinal ulcer counts were significantly ameliorated. Hepatic, renal, gastric and intestinal tissue PGE-2 contents and COX-2 expression were significantly elevated. RJ also significantly reduced MPO content and iNOS expression as compared to diclofenac-control group. Improvements of the histopathological pictures of hepatic, renal, gastric and intestinal tissues were also apparent.

Conclusion

The study demonstrates promising protective effects of RJ against diclofenac-induced hepato-renal damage and gastrointestinal ulceration in rats.

Moringa rivae leaf extracts attenuate Complete Freund's adjuvant-induced arthritis in Wistar rats via modulation of inflammatory and oxidative stress biomarkers

Moringa rivae is widely used as a traditional remedy against arthritis. The present research was designed to evaluate the anti-arthritic potential of Moringa rivae extracts. Treatment of rats with adjuvant-induced arthritis with methanolic and aqueous extracts of M. rivae (150, 300 or 600 mg/kg), and piroxicam (10 mg/kg) was started orally at day 8 post-administration of complete Freund's adjuvant and continued till 28th day. The therapeutic effect of the plant extracts was assessed in arthritic rats by arthritic index, body weight, and haematological and biochemical parameters. Furthermore, the modulatory effect on gene expression (I-κB, IL-4 and IL-10, COX-2, IL-1β and IL-6, NF-κB, and TNF-α) in the blood was determined using qRT-PCR, while ELISA assay was used to find PGE2 and TNF-α concentrations in the serum. Oxidative stress parameters in the liver and ankle joint histopathology were also evaluated. Moreover, the most effective methanolic extract was further characterized by GC-MS for the presence of phytochemicals. Treatment with the plant extracts significantly restored arthritic index, change in the body weight and immune organ weight, and the histopathological indices. Both extracts significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the serum concentration of rheumatoid factor, C-reactive protein, PGE2, and TNF-α in arthritic rats. The extracts persuasively down-regulated the COX-2, PGE2, IL-1β, IL-6, NF-κB, and TNF-α, and up-regulated the mRNA expression of I-κB, IL-4, and IL-10. Both extracts increased the activities of CAT and SOD while reducing the formation of MDA in a dose- dependent manner in the liver. Histopathological evaluation showed that treatment with the plant extracts significantly (p < 0.05) reduced joint inflammation, pannus formation, and bone erosion in treatment groups in comparison to arthritic control. Phytochemicals detected by GC-MS in the methanolic extract included esters, alcohols, ketones, fatty acids, and vitamin E. These findings provide evidence of the anti-arthritic potential of M. rivae extracts in chronic polyarthritis model.

Elevated reproductive toxicity effects of diclofenac after withdrawal: Investigation of the therapeutic role of melatonin

Although there are several reports on the toxic actions of sodium diclofenac (DF), there is dearth information on its effect on the male reproductive system. Therefore, the study investigated the effects of DF and melatonin in male rats. Twenty rats were used in this study, which lasted for 6 weeks. The control group (vehicle treated) received normal saline (0.1 ml/day, p.o.). In the experimental groups, DF was administered during the first (group 2) and last (group 3) three weeks of the study. However, in group 4, melatonin was administered for 3 weeks, after 3 weeks of treatment with DF. DF and melatonin were administered at 1 and 10 mg/kg b.w./day (p.o.) respectively. The results showed that unlike melatonin, DF had no effect on gonadotrophins; however, it caused significant decreases in GNRH and testosterone, but a significant increase in prolactin. Melatonin attenuated the pro-antioxidant and pro-inflammatory effects of DF, which caused significant decreases in SOD, TAC, CAT, but significant elevations in LDH, MDA, uric acid and CRP. Moreover, the hormone reversed the adverse effect of DF on sperm count, sperm motility and sperm morphology. There were slight evidence of the precipitation of imbalance in lipid metabolism by DF and the antidyslipidaemic action of melatonin. Compared to DF, DF recovery showed more adverse effects on prolactin, testosterone, LDH, MDA, UA, CRP, semen parameters (except sperm motility), TC, LDL-c, HDL-c and phospholipid. The histological results agreed with the biochemical assays. In conclusion, the reproductive toxicity effects of DF seem to escalate after withdrawal; however, these effects could be attenuated by treatment with melatonin.

Silymarin mitigates diclofenac-induced liver toxicity through inhibition of inflammation and oxidative stress in male rats

Introduction: Diclofenac (DIC) is one of the compounds derived from acetic acid which isknown for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic attributes. Silymarin is a flavonoid compoundwhich is derivate from Silybum marianum seeds. This research was done to assess the protectiverole of silymarin against liver toxicity induced by DIC in male rats.Methods: Randomly, 40 male Wistar rats were assigned into five groups as follows: Group 1:control group, Group 2: DIC-only treated (50 mg/kg, i.p), Group 3: silymarin-only treated (200mg/kg, p.o); Groups 4 and 5: DIC (50 mg/kg, i.p) plus silymarin (100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg, p.o,respectively) treated. Various biochemical, molecular, and histological parameters were evaluatedin serum and tissue.Results: In the DIC-only treated group, the levels of liver glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxidedismutase (SOD), intracellular glutathione (GSH) and catalase (CAT) significantly diminished andthe levels of total bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), nitrite, alanine aminotransferase (ALT),malondialdehyde (MDA), serum tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), aspartate aminotransferase(AST), and TNF-α gene expression were remarkably elevated relative to control animals. In otherhands, treatment with silymarin caused a noticeable elevation in GPx, SOD, GSH, CAT and aremarkable reduction in levels of total bilirubin, ALP, nitrite content, ALT, MDA, serum TNF-α,AST and TNF-α gene expression relative to DIC-only treated group. Histopathological injurieswere also improved by silymarin administration.Conclusion: The results confirm that silymarin has an ameliorative effect on liver toxicity inducedby DIC and oxidative stress in male rats.

Therapeutic activity of sour orange albedo extract and abundant flavanones loaded silica nanoparticles against acrylamide-induced hepatotoxicity

The current research aims to demonstrate the therapeutic effect of sour orange albedo extract (SOAE) and two flavanones loaded-tetraethylorthosilicate (TEOS) using sol-gel technique, in adose100 mg/kg body weight taken orally or45 days against acrylamide (ACR)toxicity in rats. This was achieved through measuring the activities of specific biochemical parameters related to liver functions in tissue of ACR intoxicated rats as compared to normal one. Liver functions included alanine and aspartate aminotransferases, antioxidants and oxidative stress biomarkers; superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione and lipid peroxide (malondialdehyde, MDA). Moreover, histological examination of liver was performed to confirm the biochemical findings. The present results clearly indicated disturbances in all biochemical parameters, such as increase in the liver function enzyme activities and MDA level. Results of ATPase enzyme activities revealed significant decrease in ACR intoxicated rats and liver biomarker enzymes declared significant decrease. On the other hand, treatment of intoxicated rats with the previous different nano-particles natural product demonstrated improvement in all biochemical parameters under investigation.