Anti-multidrug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and anti-dermatophyte activities of secondary metabolites of the endophytic fungus Penicillium brevicompactum ANT13 associated with the Algerian endemic plant Abies numidica

This study aims to identify and assess the antimicrobial activity of endophytic fungi found in the endemic plant Abies numidica. Among all isolates, the ANT13 isolate demonstrated significant antimicrobial activity in the preliminary screening, particularly Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 and Candida albicans ATCC 1024, with inhibition zones of 22 and 21.5 mm, respectively. Based on its morphological and molecular features, this isolate was identified as Penicillium brevicompactum. The maximum activity was observed in the ethyl acetate extract, followed by the dichloromethane extract; however, the n-hexane extract exhibited no activity. The ethyl acetate extract demonstrated very significant activity against the five strains of multidrug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus used, with average zones of inhibition ranging from 21 to 26 mm, in contrast to more resistant Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 49452 and Bacillus cereus ATCC 10876. The ethyl acetate extract was also very active against dermatophytes, where the zones of inhibition for Candida albicans, Microsporum canis, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, Trichophyton rubrum, and Epidermophyton floccosum were 23.5, 31, 43, 47, and 53.5 mm, respectively. The MIC values for dermatophytes ranged between 100 and 3200 µg/mL. The wild isolate of Penicillium brevicompactum ANT13 discovered as an endophyte in Abies numidica may be a distinctive source of novel compounds and drug discovery to trait dermatophytes and multidrug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infections.

Secondary metabolite contents and safety assessment study of the aqueous extract from the Algerian Echium trygorrhizum Pomel roots

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Species of Echium trygorrhizum Pomel, belonging to the Boraginaceae family, grow wild in North Africa. This plant is used in traditional Algerian medicine for the treatment of Diabetes, Jaundice and Tonsillitis.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To our knowledge, no work has been done on the phytochemistry and biological activities of this plant. Moreover, no study has yet corroborated that the use of this plant is safe. Therefore, the present study was carried out to gather information on the various medicinal uses of this plant and to evaluate the total phenolic content and assess its safety after acute and sub-acute toxicity tests with rodents (mice and rats).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

An ethnopharmacological survey was carried out using a direct questionnaire. It included some questions relating to the plant. The content of polyphénols, flavonoids and tannins present in the aqueous extract was determined by colorimetric methods. In the acute toxicity tests, three groups each containing five males and five females Albino mice were formed. The control group received water, while the test groups received different doses of aqueous extract (2000 and 5000) mg/kg body weight. In the subacute toxicity study, different doses (250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg) of the aqueous extract were administered to male and female rats for 28 consecutive days. Hematological analysis, biochemical parameters estimation and histopathological examination have been determined at the end of the treatment.

RESULTS

Data from the ethnopharmacological survey showed that 25, 31% of people used this plant in Algeria as a traditional medicine for the treatment of Jaundice (100%), Diabetes (28, 33%) and Tonsillitis (10%). Results also revealed that aqueous extract contains high amounts of polyphenols, flavonoids and tannins. The extract did not cause any toxicity during the 14-days observation period after a single dose of 5000 mg/kg was administered to mice, with LD50 values greater than 5000 mg/kg. In a further step, the administration of the aqueous extract at all dose levels (250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg) to male and female rats during the 28-days study did not result in any deaths or behavioral changes, and there were no changes in body weight, relative organ weights, or food consumption as a result of this experiment. However, male rats showed a significant difference in relative liver weight in the high dose group (1000 mg/kg) (p < 0.05) and the satellite group (p < 0.01). In female rats, liver weight significantly increased only in the satellite group compared with the control group (p < 0.01). The results showed an increase in red blood cells (RBC), hemoglobin (Hb), and hematocrit (Hct) in the female groups. However, a clear decrease was observed in plasma ALP enzyme activities in females treated with the doses of 250 and 1000 mg/kg (p < 0.05) after the treatment periods.

CONCLUSION

The study indicated that the single dose of 5 g/kg AQE can be considered relatively safe as it did not cause death or any signs of toxicity in mice. Repeated oral administration of AQE at doses below 250 g/kg/day for 28 consecutive days can be considered relatively safe.

In-vivo anti-inflammatory activity and safety assessment of the aqueous extract of Algerian Erica arborea L. (Ericaceae) aerial parts

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Erica arborea known as Khlenj in Algeria is a small shrub belonging to Ericaceae family. E. arborea Aqueous extract (EAAE) is used in traditional medicine for anti-inflammatory, diuretic, antimicrobial, and antiulcer purposes.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To our knowledge, no data reveal the combination between in-vivo anti-inflammatory and toxicological studies of EAAE. For this purpose, the aim of this study is to evaluate the biological activity cited above and assess its safety.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Anti-inflammatory activity was undergone using carrageenan-induced paw edema and croton oil-induced ear edema. The acute and sub-acute toxicity were conducted following the OECD guidelines 423 and 407, respectively. Phytochemical identification was carried out using HPLC-DAD-MS. Quantitative evaluation of polyphenols; flavonoids and antioxidant activity of EAAE were also determined.

RESULTS

Oral administration of EAAE (250 and 500 mg/kg) significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the edema induced by carrageenan. Administration of EAAE dosed at 250 and 500 mg/kg exhibited efficacy in reducing edema induced by croton oil. The acute administration of EAAE at doses of 2000 and 5000 mg/kg did not cause any mortality or adverse effects indicating that the LD50 is above 5000 mg/kg. The prolonged administration of EAAE (500 and 1000 mg/kg) showed a significant reduction in triglycerides levels in male and female rats whereas no significant changes in other biochemical and hematological parameters were observed. Histopathological damages were recorded in both liver and kidney animal's tissues of both sexes treated with medium and maximum doses of EAAE. Phytochemical characterization of EAAE revealed a high amount of phenolic compounds, HPLC-DAD-MS analysis led to the identification of chlorogenic acid and five flavonol glycosides: myricetin pentoside, quercetin-3-O-glucoside, myricetin-3-O-rhamnoside, quercetin-3-O-pentoside, and quercetin-3-O-rhamnoside.

CONCLUSION

In the light of the results obtained in this study, EAAE corroborates the popular use to treat the anti-inflammatory impairments. EAAE can be considered as non-toxic in acute administration and exhibited a moderate toxicity in sub-acute administration. High phenolic content and in-vitro antioxidant activity observed indicate that EAAE may reduce oxidative stress markers in-vivo.

Phytochemical Screening, In vitro Antioxidant and Enzyme Inhibitory Proprieties, and Acute Toxicity of Extracts From the Aerial Parts of Ephedra nebrodensis, a Source of Bioactive Compounds

BACKGROUND

Due to the strong association between the chemistry of medicinal plants and their biological properties, it is important to determine their phytochemical composition to justify experimental tests.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the in vitro antioxidant and the enzyme inhibitory properties and to identify the bioactive compounds present in the extracts of Ephedra nebrodensis growing in Algeria.

METHODS

Total phenolic and flavonoids content in these extracts were quantified by Folin-Ciocalteu and aluminum chloride methods. The antioxidant capacity was assessed using DPPH, ABTS, β-carotene/linoleic acid, CUPRAC and FRAP assays and in vitro cholinesterase activity against acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase were evaluated. The chemical constituents of the extracts were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometric detection and gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometric detection. For the acute toxicity study, extracts were administered to mice at single dose of 2 g/kg and 5 g/kg by gavage.

RESULTS

Plant extracts were rich in phenolic compounds. Ethyl acetate extract presented the highest phenolic (238.44 ± 1.50 µg GAE /mg of extract) and flavonoid (21.12 ± 0.00 µg QE /mg of extract) contents. Likewise, ethyl acetate extract showed potent radical scavenging and reducing properties. Ethanol: acetone extract showed inhibitory activity against acetylcholinesterase, and was a potent inhibitor of butyrylcholinesterase. In all extracts, flavonoids were the most abundant compounds. The phytochemical investigation showed the presence of alkaloids (ephedrine and pseudo-ephedrine). In the acute toxicity, the LD50 was superior to 5 g/kg body weight. There are not alterations in the histology of the liver and kidneys.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated a good antioxidant potential and anticholinesterase activity of aerial parts of E. nebrodensis.

Antimicrobial activity of secondary metabolites produced by Aspergillus neobridgeri isolated from Pistacia lentiscus against multi-drug resistant bacteria

The in vitro antibacterial activity of the endophytic fungus Aspergillus neobridgeri PLR9 (isolated from the plant Pistacia lentiscus) against a wide range of tested bacteria were studied. The maximum inhibitory activity was found on malt extract agar medium with a mean inhibitory zone of 11.3 mm (p<0.05). The ethyl acetate extract showed a significant inhibitory zone of 13.4 mm (p<0.05), followed by dichloromethane 9.1 mm. Whereas, n-hexane extract showed no activity. The largest inhibition zones were observed against Staphylococcus aureus 3, S. aureus 5 and Escherichia coli 1 with 21.0 mm of diameter. The MIC's were ranged between 312.5 and 1,250 μg/mL. The MBC's were ≤2500 μg/mL for most Gram positive bacteria and ≥2500 μg/mL for most Gram negative bacteria. Time kill assay study against the Enterococcus faecium showed a bactericidal effect at 4x MIC and bacteriostatic against Acinetobacter baumannii at different concentrations. Moreover, it is the first report, PLR9 isolated as endophyte and studied for their antimicrobial activity.

Diketopiperazines from Batnamyces globulariicola, gen. & sp. nov. (Chaetomiaceae), a fungus associated with roots of the medicinal plant Globularia alypum in Algeria

Eight diketopiperazines including five previously unreported derivatives were isolated from an endophytic fungus cultured from the medicinal plant Globularia alypum collected in Algeria. The strain was characterised by means of morphological studies and molecular phylogenetic methods and was found to represent a species of a new genus in the Chaetomiaceae, for which we propose the name Batnamyces globulariicola. The taxonomic position of the new genus, which appears phylogenetically related to Stolonocarpus and Madurella, was evaluated by a multi-locus genealogy and by morphological studies in comparison to DNA sequence data reported in the recent monographs of the family. The culture remained sterile on several culture media despite repeated attempts to induce sporulation, and only some chlamydospores were formed. After fermentation in submerged culture and extraction of the cultures with organic solvents, the major secondary metabolites of B. globulariicola were isolated and their chemical structures were elucidated by extensive spectral analysis including nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, high-resolution electrospray ionisation mass spectrometry (HRESIMS), and electronic circular dichroism (ECD) measurements. The isolated compounds were tested for their biological activities against various bacteria, fungi, and two mammalian cell lines, but only three of them exhibited weak cytotoxicity against KB3.1 cells, but no antimicrobial effects were observed.

Furanones and Anthranilic Acid Derivatives from the Endophytic Fungus Dendrothyrium variisporum

Extracts from an endophytic fungus isolated from the roots of the Algerian plant Globularia alypum showed prominent antimicrobial activity in a screening for novel antibiotics. The producer organism was identified as Dendrothyrium variisporum by means of morphological studies and molecular phylogenetic methods. Studies on the secondary metabolite production of this strain in various culture media revealed that the major components from shake flasks were massarilactones D (1) and H (2) as well as two new furanone derivatives for which we propose the trivial names (5S)-cis-gregatin B (3) and graminin D (4). Scale-up of the fermentation in a 10 L bioreactor yielded massarilactone D and several further metabolites. Among those were three new anthranilic acid derivatives (5-7), two known anthranilic acid analogues (8 and 9) and three cyclopeptides (10-12). Their structures were elucidated on the basis of extensive spectroscopic analysis (1D- and 2D-NMR), high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRESIMS), and the application of the modified Mosher's method. The isolated metabolites were tested for antimicrobial and cytotoxic activities against various bacteria, fungi, and two mammalian cell lines. The new Metabolite 5 and Compound 9 exhibited antimicrobial activity while Compound 9 showed cytotoxicity activity against KB3.1 cells.

Preussilides A-F, Bicyclic Polyketides from the Endophytic Fungus Preussia similis with Antiproliferative Activity

Six novel bioactive bicyclic polyketides (1-6) were isolated from cultures of an endophytic fungus of the medicinal plant Globularia alypum collected in Batna, Algeria. The producer organism was identified as Preussia similis using morphological and molecular phylogenetic methods. The structures of metabolites 1-6, for which the trivial names preussilides A-F are proposed, were elucidated using a combination of spectral methods, including extensive 2D NMR spectroscopy, high-resolution mass spectrometry, and CD spectroscopy. Preussilides were tested for antimicrobial and antiproliferative effects, and, in particular, compounds 1 and 3 showed selective activities against eukaryotes. Subsequent studies on the influence of 1 and 3 on the morphology of human osteosarcoma cells (U2OS) suggest that these two polyketides might target an enzyme involved in coordination of the cell division cycle. Hence, they might, for instance, affect timing or spindle assembly mechanisms, leading to defects in chromosome segregation and/or spindle geometry.

Flavonoid profile, antioxidant and cytotoxic activity of different extracts from Algerian Rhamnus alaternus L. bark

Background:

Rhamnus alaternus (Rhamnaceae) L. has been traditionally used for treatment of many diseases.

Objective:

In this study, we determined the antioxidant/free radical scavenger properties, the flavonoid profile and the cytotoxicity of aqueous and methanolic extracts obtained by maceration from Algerian R. alaternus bark, like also of aqueous extract prepared by decoction according to the traditional method. This to estimate the usefulness of the drug traditional preparation and compare it with those made in the laboratory.

Materials and Methods:

The antioxidant activity of the extracts was evaluated using five different redox-based assays, all involving one redox reaction with the oxidant. High-performance liquid chromatography/diode array detection/electrospray ionization mass spectrometry analysis was used to identify and quantify the flavonoids content. Cytotoxicity on human monocytic leukemia cells (U937) was also carried out.

Results:

All the extracts tested showed a good antioxidant/free radical scavenger activity and a similar flavonoid fingerprint. However, the methanolic one presented the best antioxidant activity that can be due to the highest flavonoid amount and significantly reduced the proliferation of leukemia cells. The results confirm that the extract prepared by decoction contains efficient antioxidant compounds and this justifies in part the therapeutic and preventive usefulness. Moreover, the methanolic extract exerted excellent cytotoxicity on U937 that could be attributed to kaempferol and rhamnocitrin glycosides.

CHARACTERIZATION AND BIOCONTROL POTENT OF STREPTOMYCES SP. ISOLATED FROM THE RHIZOSPHERE OF ONONIS ANGUSTISSIMA LAM

A total of 40 actinomycetes isolated from rhizosphere soils of Ononis angustissima Lam. were in vitro tested for their antagonism against deferent pathogenic microorganisms by streak assay. Among the isolates, four (21, 2A26, 1B10 and 2C34) present a potent antagonism against both pathogenic bacteria and fungi, they were selected, identified by 16S rDNA sequence analysis and phenotypic properties, and tested for their antimicrobial activity as well as their biocontrol potential against Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) pathogenic fungus (Fusarium oxysporum). Cultural characteristic studies strongly suggested that these strains belong to the genus Streptomyces. The four Streptomyces sp., solubilize phosphate and produce extracellular fungal cell-wall degrading enzymes chitinase and protease, as well as a marked production of acid-β-indole acetic (AIA). The nucleotide sequence of the 16S rRNA gene of Streptomyces sp. strains 21, 2A26, 1B10 and 2C34 exhibited close similarity (62-75%) with Streptomyces parvulus MARS 16S rRNA genes. The inhibition was higher against fungi and Gram+ bacteria, while Gram- bacteria were less inhibited. The growth of the plant pathogenic fungus Fusarium oxysporum was considerably inhibited in the presence of the strains 21, 2A26, 1B10 and 2C34 culture supernatant. These studies revealed that the presence of the Streptomyces strains in the soil significantly promoted the growth of the Chickpea plants. These results indicate that the Streptomyces strains isolated for rhizosphere from Ononis angustissima Lam. growing in arid conditions in southern Algeria (Sahara) could be an interesting source for antimicrobial bioactive substances and as biocontrol agents.

A PLAUSIBLE ROLE FOR POLLEN-RESIDING MOLDS IN AGRICULTURAL PURPOSES

Pollen microbial content of 15 samples was investigated. Pollen was collected by honeybees. Total aerobic mesophilic count ranged from 3.00 to 5.48 Log CFU/g. Total mold and yeast count ranged from 2.3 to 6.99 Log CFU/g. Selected strains of isolated molds from pollen samples were characterized by conventional methods. Potent phytopathogenic and food spoilage species such as Penicillium sp., Alternaria alternata, Alternaria sp., Cladosporium werneckii, Mucor hiemalis, Rhizomucor pusillus, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, Drechslera tritici-repentis, Verticillium albo-atrum, and Aspergillus alliaceus were recovered. Other fungal species with valuable biotechnological and plant diseases control purposes were isolated. They were characterized as Geotrichum candidum, Monilia sitophilia, and Sepedonium chrysospermum. Animal pathogenic molds were also isolated. Bee pollen may be considered as a source for a highly diverse fungal flora with different applications.

Endophytic fungi isolated from Pinus halepensis needles in M'sila (Algeria) region and their bioactivities

Fungal endophytes grow asymptomatically within the tissues of all vascular plants and some are known to provide their host plants with tolerance to different types of environmental stress. Endophytic fungi were detected, isolated and collected from healthy needles of Alep pine (Pinus halepensis Mill.) from the canton of El-Haourane in M'sila, Algeria. For the author's knowledge, these fungi are reported from this conifer for the first time in this region. A survey has been conducted using randomly sampled needles of symptomless trees for two categories of needles (old and young). From 600 surface-sterilized needles collected from 15 trees (300 needles for each age), 29 fungal isolates were obtained and identified on the basis of the morphological characterization using microscopic observations. The fungal isolates were grouped in Deuteromycetes and Zygomycetes. Species of Moniliales were the most common fungi assaciated with P. halepensis. It appears from the results also that the colonization frequency (CF%) was dependant on the age of the needles; older needles were more densely colonized than the younger needles with a 68.5%. The results of this study indicate that P. halepensis serves as a host to numerous endophytic fungi. These fungi could have significance as a source of novel metabolites. And therefore the mycoendophytes genera of Penicillium, Acremonium, Aspergillus, Rhizopus, Trichosporon, Cladosporium, Fusarium, Trichoderma. Expressed an antagonistic and antibiotic effect against pathogenic microorganisms to humans and plants.

Endophytic fungi isolated from wheat (Triticum durum Desf.): evaluation of their antimicrobial activity, antioxidant activity and host growth promotion

The emergence of antibiotic-resistant micro-organisms calls for inventive research and development strategies. The screening for antimicrobial compounds from endophytes is a promising way to meet the increasing threat of drug-resistant strains of human and plant pathogens. Endophytes may be defined as "microbes that colonize living, internal tissues of plants without causing any immediate, overt negative effects". Endophytes are relatively unstudied as potential sources of novel natural products for exploitation in medicine, agriculture, and industry. The purpose of this study was to evaluate several isolated fungi from wheat (Triticum durum Desf.) Mohamed Ben Bachir variety and to select endophytic fungi for further evaluation of its antimicrobial, antioxidant activities and host growth promotion. A total of 20 endophytic fungi have been isolated. Antimicrobial activity was evaluated for crude ethyl acetate extracts using an agar diffusion assay. All extracts showed inhibitory activity on at least one or more pathogenic microorganism, with an average zone of inhibition varied between 7 mm to 25 mm, a large zone of 23 and 25mm against candida albicans and Escherichia coli respectively. The antioxidant capacity of the extracts was evaluated by beta-carotene/linoleic acid assay. Results showed that 70% of these extracts have antioxidant activity, exhibiting 50, 57% to 78, 96% inhibitions. While 30% from them, their inhibitory activity for oxidation of linoleic acid Were less than 50%. Growth promotion ability of these endophytes was tested on seed germination among ten isolates tested, two isolates showed significant growth promotion effects on wheat seeds. From the present work we can conclude that these microorganisms could be promising source of bioactive compounds, growth promotion and warrant further study.

Evaluation of the toxicity of cypermethrin pesticide on organs weight loss and some biochemical and histological parameters

An increase in global food demand has resulted in a significant increase in the use of pesticides in agriculture. Synthetic pyrethroid pesticides account for over 30% of the global pesticide use; Pyrethroid pesticides were used preferably over organochlorines and organophosphates due to their high effectiveness, low toxicity to non-target organisms and easy biodegrability. It has widespread applications in agriculture through the world and as well in Algeria. Cypermethrin is one of the most insecticidal pyrethroids widely used in agriculture regions of Setif. to control wide range of insect pests in a variety of crops. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of cypermethrin (Cyper-Ac 271 g/l from the active substance of the cypermethrin) on hematological, biochemical parameters, body weight loss, and histopathological study of some organs. Male mice weighing 30-40g were used, separated in 5 groups, n=6, two groups controls given vehicle (oil vegetable) and three experimental groups (Cypermetherin and vegetable oil). The animals were gavaged by 1/5 LD50 (LD50 = 485 mg/kg b/w) for 2 and 4 weeks respectively, and with 1/20 LD50 for 12 weeks, then the animals sacrificed at the end of the experiment.. Blood was collected. Enzyme activities were assayed in the plasma samples obtained. Glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (GOT), Glutamate pyruvate transaminase (GPT), Alkaline phosphatase (ALPH) and Glucose. Red blood cells, (RBC), and white blood cells (WBC) were calculated too. The samples of liver and kidney were processed for histology. The results indicated a significant increase in transaminases GOT, GPT, and AlP. The decrease in Hb, RBC and WBC which are related to the immunity, this is probably due to cell lyses explain the effect of Cypermetherin on erythropoeisis. cypermethrin treatment exhibited severe histopathological changes, especially in the liver and kideney accompanied by weight loss of some organs. We conclude that cypermethrin induces oxidative stress and modifies biochemical parameters and histological aspects of liver and kidney.

Cypermetherin toxic effects on spermatogenesis and male mouse reproductive organs

Cypermetherin has been implicated in the development of a variety of reproductive disorders in humans and infertility in wild life, where it increases the death rate of the offspring and induces aggressiveness (Elbetieha et al., 2001). Studies in workers exposed to handling of agro pesticides indicate that they have defects in their reproduction capabilities characterized by infertility and/or a decrease in the fertilizing potential, fetal death. In this study, mice weighing 30-35 g were used, separated in 3 groups, (1) control (2) vehicle (oil) and (3) experimental (Cypermetherin and oil). The animals were gavaged by 1/5, 1/20 LD50 for 2 and 4 weeks respectively, and with 1/5 LD50 for 12 weeks, then sacrificed. Epididymal spermatozoa were evaluated with respect to quantity, motility and morphology. The histology of testis and epididymis was also studied. Sperm count decreased by around 20% in treated animals compared with control. Teratology observations showed a clear modification of sperm morphology, especially the flagella. Testicular and epididymal morphology was also impaired. It is concluded that Cypermetherin may cause morphological and functional alteration of the male reproductive tract.

Biochemical, hematological and histological parameters induced by cypermetherin toxicity in domestic rabbits

Cypermetherin is widely used in Algeria; this insecticide belongs to the group of pyrethroids classified by the World Health Organization as moderately harmful class II (WHO, 2005). This study was conducted to search the effect of non lethal dose on biochemical parameters, hematological and histological parts of the organs. Male of domestic rabbits Oryctolagus cuniculus (1 kg) received per week and per gavage 1/10 LD50 of Cypermetherin (ARRIVO 25%, active substance of Cypermetherin 250 g/l). blood was collected 72 hours after the treatment. Enzyme activities were assayed in the plasma samples for Glutamate oxalo acetate transaminase (GOT), Glutamate pyruvate transaminase (GPT), Alcaline phosphatase (AlcP), creatinine (Crea) and glucose. Red blood (RBC) cells and white blood cells (WBC) were calculated too. The results indicated a significant increase in transaminases GOT and GPT, and AlcP explain a high energy generating product and dysfunction of the liver. A decline in Crea, Hb, RBC and WBC which is related to the immunity, this is probably due to cell lyses explain the effect of Cypermetherin on erythropoeisis. Histological examination confirmed the biochemical tests by the observation of inflammatory infiltrate and perilobular fibrosis. In conclusion, Cypermetherin with used dose affects biochemical, hematological and histological parameters of the rabbits.

Comparison of xanthine oxidase levels in synovial fluid from patients with rheumatoid arthritis and other joint inflammations

OBJECTIVE

To search whether xanthine oxido-reductase (XOR) present in the synovium is also liberated, to determine its activity in synovial fluid and to establish a possible relationship between XOR levels in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and non-RA patients.

METHODS

This study was carried out in the Laboratory of Immunology, University Ferhat Abbas, Setif, Algeria from 2001-2008. This study is a retrospective controlled study matching cases with RA to non rheumatoid joint inflammations. Synovial fluid (SF) samples were collected with consent of the patients, at Setif University Hospital, from adults suffering from RA (n=36) or only with joint inflammations (n=52). After its detection in SF with indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and dot-immunobinding, using anti-bovine XOR as first antibodies, XOR was assayed with capture ELISA.

RESULTS

Xanthine oxidoreductase is found in all studied SF. Capture ELISA showed levels up to 0.762 and 0.143 mg/mL in SF of RA and other joint inflammations patients, respectively. In most cases, more than 50% of synovial XOR is present as oxidase form. Positive correlation was observed between enzyme level and the disease severity since RA patients had a significantly high enzyme amount compared to patients with other less severe arthritic pathologies.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that the enzyme could well be involved in joint inflammation probably by producing reactive oxygen species.

Biochemical investigation of cypermethrin toxicity in rabbits

Pyrethroids are the most frequently used pesticides in agriculture, forestry, horticulture, hospitals public health, homes and textile industry. Cypermethrin, a composite pyrethroid is moderately toxic to mammals. Exposure to the pyrethroids occurs by inhalation, dermal and oral routes both accidentally as well as from the environment. Cypermethrin and DDT have been detected in human breast milk from malaria endemic area in South Africa. The WHO has recommended that the level of permethrin in drinking water not exceed 20 micrograms per liter (microg/L). The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the dose, the duration, how you are exposed, personal traits, habits and whether other chemicals are present. Pyrethroids are often combined commercially with other chemicals called synergists, which enhance the insecticidal activity of the pyrethrins and pyrethroids. The synergists prevent some enzymes from breaking down the pyrethrins and pyrethroids, thus increasing their toxicity. Because these compounds are broken down in the body quickly, there are several ways to measure the metabolites of these chemicals in human blood and urine. In this study the pyrethroid cypermethrin Sherpa 25% (active substance 250 g/l cypermethrin) was used, rabbits (1 kg weight), were gavaged by 1/20 LD50 for 3 weeks (one dose every week). Blood was collected before dosing and after 24, 72, 144 hours after the treatment. Enzyme activities were assayed in the plasma samples obtained. GOT, GPT, ALPH, CREA, GGT, Glucose and Total Pro were measured. Rabbits showed depression, decrease in feed intake, body weight and loose faeces. Livers exhibited fatty change, necrosis, lesions in kidney included tubular necrosis and pink homogeneous tubular casts. Serum ALT and creatinine concentrations increased while those of total proteins, albumin, serum cholesterol and triglycerides decreased.The results showed a decrease in RBC; WBC and Hb. This probably explained by the effect of cypermethrin on the erythropoiesis. An increase of plasma enzyme activities in GOT, GPT and CPK were recorded, explain a high energy-generating product. An increase, in the plasma enzyme activity in Alkaline phosphatase, related to their role in the cell permeability. The histopathological results showed lesions and morphological changes of hepato-cellular, fibrosis and appearance of inflammatory infiltrate, confirmed disturbances of the biochemical parameters. These changes were much underlines during the animal toxicity.

Toxico-pathological effects in rats induced by lambda-cyhalothrin

Pesticides are widely used chemicals making human exposure to pesticides a realistic possibility. Biomonitoring is a common and useful tool for assessing human exposure to pesticides. Pyrethroids are effective insecticides that are often used in household sprays, aerosol bombs, insect repellents, pet shampoos, and lice treatments. Using products containing these compounds will expose people to these chemicals. Since these compounds frequently are used on crOPs, they are often detected in fruits and vegetables. Biomonitoring of exposure is a useful tool for assessing exposure to pesticides. Biomonitoring involves the measurement of the parent pesticide, its metabolite or reaction product in biological media, typically blood or urine, to determine if an exposure has occurred and the extent of that exposure. Although not without its limitations, biomonitoring has great utility in integrating all routes of exposure allowing for one exposure measurement. Pesticides have much shorter environmental half-lives and tend not to bioaccumulate. In fact, from humans within 24 hr as the parent pesticide, a mercapturic acid detoxification product, oxidative or dealkylation metabolites, and/or glucuronide or sulphate-bound metabolites. However, because of the heavy agricultural and residential use of these chemicals, humans are continually exposed to many of these chemicals. The objective of the present study was to explore modification in toxico-pathological responses of rats treated with lambda-cyhalothrin (commercially called karate). Rats (250 g weight), were gavaged by 1/100 LD50 for 4 weeks (one dose every week). Blood was collected before dosing and after 48 hours from the treatment. Enzyme activities were assayed in the plasma samples obtained. Glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (GOT), Glutamate pyruvate transaminase (GPT), Alkaline phosphatase (ALPH) and Glucose. The results showed a decrease in RBC; WBC and Hb. This probably explained by the effect of lambda cyhalothrin on the erythropoiesis and the destruction of cells. An increase of plasma enzyme activities in GOT and GPT were recorded, explain a high energy-generating product. The histopathological results showed alteration on the target organs such as liver and kidney, these biochemical and histological modifications are probably due to the effect of lambda cyhalothrin or their metabolites.

Characterization of Pseudomonas pathovars isolated from rosaceous fruit trees in East Algeria

A survey of bacterial diseases due to Pseudomonas on rosaceous fruit trees was conducted. In forty two orchards located in the Constantine region ( East Algeria). Pseudomonas isolates were identified on the bases of their cultural and biochemical characteristics . A total of fifty nine phytopathogenic bacteria were isolated from diseased pome and stone fruit trees. Thirty one strains comparable to Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae were isolated from cherry (Prunus avium L.), plum (P. domestica L.), apricot (P. armeniaca L.), almond (P. dulcis L.) and pear trees (Pirus communis L.); sixteen strains comparable to Pseudomonas syringae pv. morsprunorum were obtained from samples of cherry and plum. Twelve strains of Pseudomonas viridiflava were isolated from cherry, apricot and peach (Prunus persica L.).

The physiological development of the chlorotic lesion induced by coronatine

Toxins are secondary metabolites produced by several plant pathogenic microorganisms. These toxins play a major role in the development of disease symptoms. Coronatine, the non specific toxin, was extracted and purified from the culture medium of Pseudomonas syringae pv. glycinea. In this study, the effect of coronatine on the development of the chlorotic lesion on the Phaseolus vulgaris L. leaves, indicates that coronatine induced chlorosis on treated leaves as well as or untreated leaves on the same plant. An other effect of this toxin is the reduction of amount of both chlorophyll a and b. These results, provide that the development of chlorotic lesion is a primarily mode of action of coronatine.

Effects of nutritional factors on production of tabtoxin, a phytotoxin, by Pseudomonas syringae pv. tabaci

Pseudomonas syringae pv. tabaci, the causal agent of the wildfire of tobacco, produces the phytotoxin tabtoxin. The effects of carbon, nitrogen sources and amino acids on growth and tabtoxin production by pv. tabaci, were examined by varying the components of a defined basal medium, which contained the following nutrients per liter: sucrose (10 g), KNO3 (5 g), MgSO(4).7H2O (0.2 g), CaCl(2).2H2O (0.11 g), FeSO(4).7H2O (20 mg), NaH2PO(4).2H2O (0.9 g) and H2PO(4).3HO (1 g). Bacterial growth was determined by cell density, and tabtoxin production was measured by the E. coli bioassay technique. Both growth and quantity of tabtoxin synthesized were significantly affected by carbon source, nitrogen source and amino acid supplements. Sorbitol, xylose and sucrose proved to be the best carbon sources for tabtoxin production. Specific toxin production was very low using glucose as a single carbohydrate source, although bacterial growth was well supported by glucose. Amount and type of nitrogen sources (NH4Cl or KNO3) affected the growth of pv. tabaci and quantities of tabtoxin produced. Nitrate was the best of these two forms of nitrogen for production of tabtoxin. Adding threonine to pv. tabaci grown in batch culture decreased the amount of tabtoxin production. Similar results were obtained with lysine, whereas, serine had no effects on quantities of tabtoxin production. The results of the present study were to formulate a medium which allowed for enhanced tabtoxin production by Pseudomonas syringae pv. tabaci.