Profiling of two Lampranthus species using LC-ESI/MS with evidence of their hepatoprotective activity

Lampranthus glaucus and Lampranthus glaucoides are only reported to have significant cytotoxic activity against certain cancer cell lines with phytochemical investigation of their petroleum ether and the ethyl acetate extracts. Further investigation was suggested concerning their hepatoprotective activity and relating it to the metabolic profile of their defatted methanol extracts using LC-ESI/MS analysis. Hepatoprotective activity was evaluated through assessment of three liver parameters as well as liver histopathological examination in thioacetamide-induced hepatotoxicity model. Sixty-eight and 26 phytochemicals were tentatively identified in L. glaucoides and L. glaucus, respectively, with phenolic compounds as the major class. Both plants showed significant inhibition of serum GPT and GOT levels, inhibition of tissue IL-1β and TNF-α levels and inhibition of tissue NF-κβ and caspase-3 gene expression proving hepatoprotective action. Liver treated with L. glaucoides showed lesion scoring range between negative to mild, whereas L. glaucus showed a range between mild to moderate.

Fexofenadine-loaded chitosan coated solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs): A potential oral therapy for ulcerative colitis

The targeting and mucoadhesive features of chitosan (CS)-linked solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) were exploited to efficiently deliver fexofenadine (FEX) into the colon, forming a novel and potential oral therapeutic option for ulcerative colitis (UC) treatment. Different FEX-CS-SLNs with varied molecular weights of CS were prepared and optimized. Optimized FEX-CS-SLNs exhibited 229 ± 6.08 nm nanometric size, 36.3 ± 3.18 mV zeta potential, 64.9 % EE, and a controlled release profile. FTIR, DSC, and TEM confirmed good drug entrapment and spherical particles. Mucoadhesive properties of FEX-CS-SLNs were investigated through mucin incubation and exhibited considerable mucoadhesion. The protective effect of FEX-pure, FEX-market, and FEX-CS-SLNs against acetic acid-induced ulcerative colitis in rats was examined. Oral administration of FEX-CS-SLNs for 14 days before ulcerative colitis induction reversed UC symptoms and almost restored the intestinal mucosa to normal integrity and inhibited Phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase (73.6 %), protein kinase B (73.28 %), and elevated nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (185.9 %) in colonic tissue. Additionally, FEX-CS-SLNs inhibited tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) and interleukin 6 (IL-6) to (70.79 % & 72.99 %) in colonic tissue. The ameliorative potential of FEX-CS-SLNs outperformed that of FEX-pure and FEX-market. The exceptional protective effect of FEX-CS-SLNs makes it a potentially effective oral system for managing ulcerative colitis.

Pylorus ligation-induced hyperacidity: synergistic prophylactic effects of linagliptin and L-arginine via up-regulation of EP4 receptor subtype and improvement of vascular endothelial damage

Gastric hyperacidity and ulceration are chronic diseases characterized by repeated healing followed by re-exacerbation. The study aims to protect against gastric hyperacidity without interfering with gastric acid secretion. Pylorus ligation-induced hyperacidity is commonly utilized in the induction of gastric ulcers.Forty-two rats were distributed into seven groups (n = 6). Group I comprised sham-operated group. Group II served as pylorus-ligation group. Groups III-VII were given oral Linagliptin (LN; 3 and 6 mg/kg), L-arginine (LA; 150 and 300 mg/kg) and their combination (LN 3 + LA 150 mg/kg), respectively for 7 days. On the 8th day, groups II-VII were subjected to pylorus-ligation.Treatment of pylorus-ligated rats with LN, LA and their combination improved the gastric hyperacidity as exhibited by a marked reduction in the gastric juice volume, total and free acidities and pepsin contents with a noticeable increase in pH. Pre-treatment with LN, LA and their combination showed a marked alleviation in the gastric inflammatory indicators evidenced by reduction in the gastric levels of MCP-1and Il-1β as well as elevation of eNOS levels versus the sham-operated group. A marked up-regulation in the gastric gene expression of PGE, EP4 and VEGF accompanied by an improvement of the histopathologic pictures/scores, and TNF-α and caspase-3 immuno-staining were also recorded.By estimating the combination-index, it can be concluded that combining LN with LA exhibited prophylactic synergistic effects in ameliorating pylorus ligated-induced hyperacidity, mainly via up-regulation of EP4 receptor and improvement of vascular endothelial damage through VEGF expression in gastric mucosa.

Amelioration of acetic acid-induced ulcerative colitis in rats by cetirizine and loratadine via regulation of the PI3K/Akt/Nrf2 signalling pathway and pro-inflammatory cytokine release

Objectives

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes inflammation and ulcers in the rectum and the innermost layer of the large intestine. Our study aimed to elucidate the ameliorative effect of cetirizine (CTZ) and loratadine (LOR) against acetic acid-induced ulcerative colitis in rats via assessment of the PI3K/p-Akt/Nrf2 signaling pathway and proinflammatory cytokine release.

Materials and Methods

Thirty-two rats were allocated into four groups (n=8). Group (I) was considered normal control. Acetic acid (AA) was injected intrarectally in groups (2-4). Group (2) was kept untreated. Group (3) was administered CTZ (20 mg/kg/day) for 7 days. Group (4) was administered LOR (10 mg/kg/day) for 7 days.

Results

AA showed severe macroscopic colonic lesions associated with increased ulcer number, area, and severity with significantly elevated PI3K, p-Akt, Nrf2, TNF-α, and IL-6 in colorectal tissue as compared to the normal control group. All the aforementioned indicators were greatly improved by CTZ and LOR therapy.

Conclusion

This is the first study to elucidate the ameliorative effect of CTZ and LOR against AA-induced UC in rats. CTZ and LOR treatment mitigates UC via amelioration of the PI3K/p-Akt/Nrf2 pathway and proinflammatory cytokine release.

Meclizine moderates lipopolysaccharide-induced neuroinflammation in mice through the regulation of AKT/ NF-κβ/ERK/JNK signaling pathway

Neuroinflammation is identified as significant inflammatory reactions occurring in the central nervous system. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulates innate immune reactions and is used as an in vivo animal model for the investigation of inflammation. Meclizine (MCLZ) is a histamine antagonist with potential neuroprotective qualities. Forty adult male Swiss albino mice were divided into four groups (n = 10). Group 1 served as a control negative group. Groups 2-4 were injected with LPS (5 mg/kg; i.p). Group 2 served as LPS-control. Groups 3 & 4 were given MCLZ (12.5 & 25 mg/kg; p.o) respectively for 14 days. LPS administration resulted in significant neuroinflammation in mice as was revealed by significant inflammatory histopathological changes and positive immunohistochemical staining of glial fibrillary acidic proteins (GFAP) accompanied by significant elevations of brain tissue contents of interleukin-1-beta (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), nuclear factor kappa-beta (NF-κβ), protein kinase B (AKT), extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and C-Jun N-Terminal Kinases (JNK). MCLZ treatment significantly down-regulated all the aforementioned parameters in mice brains. Moreover, MCLZ treatment ameliorated the inflammatory histopathological changes and GFAP immunostaining in brain tissues. The current study identifies for the first time the protective anti-neuroinflammatory effects of MCLZ against LPS-induced neuroinflammation in mice. MCLZ protected against neuroinflammation via the amelioration of inflammatory histopathological changes as well as neuronal GFAP immunostaining and down-regulated the AKT/NF-κβ/ERK/JNK signaling pathway. MCLZ is anticipated as a potential protective candidate for the addition to the treatment protocol of neuroinflammation.

Explicit mechanistic insights of Prosopis juliflora extract in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats at the molecular level

Background

The Ancient system of medicine showed the limelight on the use of herbal remedies and was found to possess minimal side effects and acceptable therapeutic outcomes. In this context, Prosopis juliflora gained importance in managing chronic diseases such as cancer, dermatological diseases, and chronic inflammatory disorders. Hence, P. juliflora was selected for further investigation associated with diabetes and inflammation.

Aim

The present study aimed to evaluate the anti-diabetic activity in chemically induced experimental rats and explore the nature of phytocomponents that may produce this activity.

Methods

Experimentally, diabetes was induced by a single administration of streptozotocin at 50 mg/kg intraperitoneally in Wistar rats. The animals were treated orally with P. juliflora at low and high doses (200 and 400 mg/kg) for 10 days. Blood collected from the retro-orbital plexus was analyzed for parameters like blood glucose levels, insulin, adiponectin, Keap1 and Nrf2. PPAR-γ, AMPK and GLUT 2 levels were analyzed in the pancreatic tissue. Besides, at the end of the experiment, animals were sacrificed, and the pancreatic tissue sections were subjected for histopathological, morphometrical and immune histochemical exploration. The phytochemical composition of the plant was investigated by GC-MS.

Results

The administration of P. juliflora higher dose showed a significant decrease (**p< 0.001) in blood glucose levels with a rise in adiponectin, PPARγ, Keap1, Nrf2, Glut 2, and AMPK significantly (**p< 0.001). The inflammatory cytokine TNFα was also estimated and was found to be lowered significantly (**p< 0.001) in test drug-treated animals. Furthermore, in the pancreatic tissue, the number of Islets, the area, and the number of β-cells were improved significantly with the sub-chronic treatment of P. juliflora extract. The structure and function of β-cells were also revamped.

Conclusion

The study results demonstrated a significant effect of P. juliflora on glycemic status, inflammatory condition, and the architecture of pancreatic tissue. In the identification and isolation process by GC MS, it was noticed that P. juliflora contained few phytochemical constituents from which it might be considered a promising drug for type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Chitosan coated clove oil-based nanoemulsion: An attractive option for oral delivery of leflunomide in rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a distressing inflammatory autoimmune disease, is managed mainly by Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), e.g. leflunomide (LEF). LEF (BCS class II) has limited solubility and adverse effects following its systemic exposure. The appealing antirheumatic properties of both clove oil and chitosan (CS) were exploited to design oral leflunomide (LEF)-loaded nanoemulsion (NE) system to augment the therapeutic action of LEF and decrease its systemic side effects as well. Different LEF-NEs were prepared using clove oil, Tween® 20 (surfactant), and PEG 400(co-surfactant) and characterized by thermodynamic stability, percentage transmittance, cloud point, size analysis, and drug content. Optimized LEF-NE was subjected to CS coating forming LEF-CS-NE that exhibited nanometric size range, prolonged drug release, and good physical stability. In vivo anti-rheumatic activity of pure LEF, market LEF, and LEF-CS-NE was assessed utilizing a complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) rat model. Treatment with LEF-CS-NE reduced edema rate (48.68% inhibition) and caused a marked reduction in interleukin-6 (IL-6) (510.9 ± 2.48 pg/ml), tumor necrosis factor- α (TNF-α) (397.3 ± 2.53 pg/ml), and rheumatoid factor (RF) (42.58 ± 0.49 U/ml). Furthermore, LEF-CS-NE reduced serum levels of glutamic pyruvic transaminase (GPT) to (83.19%) and glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (GOT) to (40.68%) compared to the control + ve group. The effects of LEF-CS-NE were also superior to both pure and market LEF and showed better results in histopathological studies of paws, liver, kidney, lung, and heart. The remarkable therapeutic and safety profile of LEF-CS-NE makes it a potential oral system for the management of RA.

In-vivo assessment of inflammatory cytokines induced oxidative stress signaling, and troponin I gene dysregulation in cardiac tissue associated with chronic administration of Boldenone and Tramadol, alone or in combination

Introduction The risk of cardiotoxicity is associated with the use of anabolic-androgenic steroids and analgesics, several deaths were attributed to such medications. Objectives This study investigates the effects of boldenone (BOLD) and tramadol (TRAM) alone or in combination on the heart.Material and methods Forty adult male rats were divided into four groups. Normal control group, BOLD (5 mg/kg, i.m.) per week, tramadol Hcl (TRAM) (20 mg/kg, i.p.) daily, and a combination of BOLD (5 mg/kg) and TRAM (20 mg/kg), respectively for two months. Serum and cardiac tissue were extracted for determination of serum, AST and CPK, tissue MDA, GSH, SOD, NO, TNF-α, IL-6 and histopathological examination. Troponin I gene expression was quantified in cardiac tissue using real time PCR technique.Results Groups received BOLD and TRAM alone and in combination showed elevated serum biochemical parameters (AST, CPK) and deviations in lipid profiles, elevation in oxidative and inflammatory parameters (MDA, NO, TNF-α & IL-1β), and decrease in GSH and SOD, up-regulated cardiac troponin I as well as distorted cardiac histopathological pictures.Conclusion The current study elucidated the risk of administration of these drugs for sustained periods as well as the marked detrimental effects of using these drugs in combination.

Lactoferrin mitigates ethanol-induced gastric ulcer via modulation of ROS/ICAM-1/Nrf2 signaling pathway in Wistar rats

Objectives

We aimed to investigate the gastroprotective effect of lactoferrin (LF; 100 & 300 mg/kg) in male Wistar rats versus gastric ulcers induced by 96% ethanol.

Materials and Methods

Rats were randomly allocated into 4 groups: control, ethanol, ethanol+LF100, and ethanol+LF300. LF100 & 300 were given 15 days before ulcer induction. At the end of the experiment, the gastric mucosa was examined macroscopically and microscopically.

Results

The ethanol group showed damage and degeneration of the stomach mucosa in addition to elevation of oxidative and inflammatory biomarkers. LF showed explicit healing of the gastric mucosal damage. LF reduced gastric malondialdehyde (MDA), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), myeloperoxidase (MPO), and intracellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1). On the other hand, LF elevated the depleted reduced glutathione (GSH) and Nuclear factor-erythroid factor 2 (Nrf2).

Conclusion

Our current study is the first to study the antiulcer effect of LF via its potential modulatory effects on the ROS/ICAM-1/Nrf2 signaling pathway. Moreover, we concluded that pretreatment with LF100 & 300 mitigated the ethanol-induced gastric ulcer via modulation of both oxidative stress and inflammatory responses.

Ameliorative effect of chitosan nanoparticles against carbon tetrachloride-induced nephrotoxicity in Wistar rats

CONTEXT

Chitosan is a biocompatible polysaccharide that has been widely exploited in biomedical and drug delivery applications.

OBJECTIVE

This study explores the renoprotective effect of chitosan nanoparticles in vivo in rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Chitosan nanoparticles were prepared via ionotropic gelation method, and several in vitro characterizations were performed, including measurements of particle size, zeta potential, polydispersity index, Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) imaging. Wistar rats were divided randomly into four groups; negative control, CCl₄-induced nephrotoxicity (untreated), and two groups receiving CCl₄ + chitosan NPs (10 and 20 mg/kg) orally for 2 weeks. The renoprotective effect was assessed by measuring oxidative, apoptotic, and inflammatory biomarkers, and via histopathological and immunohistochemical examinations for the visualization of NF-κB and COX-2 in renal tissues.

RESULTS

Monodisperse spherical nanosized (56 nm) particles were successfully prepared as evidenced by dynamic light scattering and TEM. Oral administration of chitosan nanoparticles (10 and 20 mg/kg) concurrently with CCl₄ for 2 weeks resulted in 13.6% and 21.5% reduction in serum creatinine and increase in the level of depleted reduced glutathione (23.1% and 31.8%), respectively, when compared with the positive control group. Chitosan nanoparticles (20 mg/kg) revealed a significant (p ˂ 0.05) decrease in malondialdehyde levels (30.6%), tumour necrosis factor-α (33.6%), interleukin-1β (31.1%), and caspase-3 (36.6%).

CONCLUSIONS

Chitosan nanoparticles afforded significant protection and amelioration against CCl₄-induced nephrotoxicity. Thus, chitosan nanoparticles could afford a potential nanotherapeutic system for the management of nephrotoxicity which allows for broadening their role in biomedical delivery applications.

Design, characterization and in vivo performance of solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs)-loaded mucoadhesive buccal tablets for efficient delivery of Lornoxicam in experimental inflammation

Lornoxicam (LRX) is a potent nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used extensively to manage pain and inflammatory conditions. However, the drug possesses poor aqueous solubility (i.e., BCS class II) and a short half-life (3-4 h). Mucoadhesive buccal tablets containing LRX -loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) were developed to enhance the drug solubility and bioavailability and achieve a controlled release pattern for a better anti-inflammatory effect. Different LRX-loaded SLNs were prepared using the hot homogenization /ultra-sonication technique and evaluated using size analysis and entrapment efficiency (EE%). Optimized LRX -loaded SLNs formulation showed particle size of 216 ± 7.4 nm, zeta potential of -27.3 ± 4.6 mV, and entrapment efficiency of 92.56 ± 2.3 %. Dried LRX-loaded SLNs alongside mucoadhesive polymers blend (PVP K30 /HPMC K15) were compressed to prepare the mucoadhesive buccal tablets. The tablets showed proper physicochemical properties, good mucoadhesive strength, long mucoadhesive time, suitable pH surface, good swelling capacity, and controlled drug release profile. Furthermore, Fourier transform-infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Powder X-Ray diffraction (PXRD), and Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) studies were carried out. The in vivo anti-inflammatory effect of pure LRX, market LRX and optimized mucoadhesive buccal tablet of LRX -loaded SLNs (T3) against carrageenan-induced models were evaluated. T3 showed a significant and early anti-inflammatory response after 1 and 2 h (63.62-77.84 % inhibition) as well as an extended effect after 4 h as compared to pure and market LRX. In parallel, T3 showed the best amelioration of PGE2, COX2, and TNF-α serum levels after 4 h of carrageenan injection.

Cross-talk between down-regulation of steroidogenic genes expression and oxidative and apoptotic biomarkers in testes induced by administration of tramadol and boldenone and their combination in male albino rats

OBJECTIVES

The testis is the male reproductive gland or gonad having two vital functions: to produce both sperm and androgens, primarily testosterone. The study aimed to investigate the effect of tramadol and boldenone injected alone or in combination for 2 months in rats on testicular function.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Group 1, normal control; Group 2, tramadol HCl (TRAM) (20 mg/kg bwt.) (IP); Group 3, boldenone undecylenate (BOLD) (5 mg/kg bwt) (i.m); Group 4, combination of TRAM (20 mg/kg bwt.) and BOLD (5 mg/kg); respectively for 2 months.

RESULTS

TRAM and BOLD alone and in combination showed deteriorated testicular functions, lowered serum steroid levels (FSH, LH, and testosterone), elevation in oxidative biomarkers (MDA & NO) and reduction in GSH and SOD, down-regulation of StaR and HSD17B3 as well as histopathological testicular assessment using H&E staining revealing massive degenerative changes in the seminiferous epithelium and vacuolar changes of most of the spermatogenic stages in both TRAM and BOLD groups. PAS stain showed an intensive reaction in the interstitial tissue between the tubules in the TRAM group. Masson trichrome stain showed abundant collagen fiber deposits in the tunica albuginea with congested BV in the TRAM group.

CONCLUSION

The study illuminated the hazard of administration of these drugs for a long period as well as the prominent deleterious effects reported on concurrent use of both drugs.

Piracetam attenuates cyclophosphamide-induced hepatotoxicity in rats: Amelioration of necroptosis, pyroptosis and caspase-dependent apoptosis

AIMS

Cyclophosphamide (Cyclo) is an immunosuppressive and antineoplastic agent. The clinical use of Cyclo is limited by significant hepatotoxicity. Piracetam (Pira) is used to improve cognitive function. Pira possesses diverse physiological functions; however, the exact mechanisms of its activity are still non-elucidated.

MAIN METHODS

Forty rats were allocated in four groups. 1st group comprised normal rats; the remaining groups received single Cyclo dose (200 mg/kg/i.p.) on the experiment's 15th day. 2nd group comprised Cyclo-control rats. 3rd & 4th groups received Pira (100 & 300 mg/kg body weight) for 15 days.

KEY FINDINGS

Cyclo administration resulted in deterioration of serum liver function tests and elevation of hepatic tissue concentration of P53, Nf-kβ, apoptosis-inducing factor-1, NLRP3 inflammasome, Bax; gene expression of receptor-induced protein-1 along with reduction of hepatic Bcl-2 concentration. Bax/Bcl-2 ratio headed for apoptosis. Cyclo administration also resulted in a severe deterioration of the hepatic histopathological picture and significant immunohistochemical expression of caspase-3, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) in hepatic tissues versus the normal group. Pira significantly improved all the aforementioned parameters, reallocating the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio to anti-apoptosis. Moreover, Pira treatment amended Cyclo-induced histopathological abnormalities and significantly reduced caspase-3, TNF-α plus COX-2 immunoreactivity in hepatic tissues.

SIGNIFICANCE

The present work is the first to link Cyclo-induced hepatotoxicity to the activation of caspase-independent apoptosis (necroptosis), pyroptosis and caspase-dependent apoptosis signaling pathways. Pira treatment significantly ameliorated Cyclo-induced hepatotoxicity mainly via the amendment of necroptotic, pyroptotic and caspase-dependent apoptotic changes along with the histopathological deformities in rats' hepatic tissues.

Antihyperlipidemic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic activities of "dimethyl dimethoxy biphenyl dicarboxylate" in male Wistar rats

Dimethyl dimethoxy biphenyl (DDB) dicarboxylate has been applied as a therapeutic modality for curing liver diseases, particularly hepatitis virus. The objective of this study was to assess the protective potential against Triton X-100 induced abnormal fat metabolism in addition to anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic effects of DDB. The anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive, and antipyretic of DDB were investigated through induction of paw edema, pain, and fever in experimental rats. DDB decreased cholesterol and triglyceride contents. DDB resulted in inhibition of inflammation, nociception, and fever in the experimental models. DDB improved lipid profile, as evidence of hypolipidemic potential. It also showed anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic properties.

Famotidine-loaded solid self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system demonstrates exceptional efficiency in amelioration of peptic ulcer

Famotidine (FMD) is a highly potent H₂-receptor antagonist used in peptic ulcer treatment. However, the drug possesses poor aqueous solubility and permeability. FMD-loaded solid self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (FMD-S-SNEDDS) comprised of Labrafil® M 1944 CS, Tween® 20 and PEG 400, adsorbed on Aerosil® 200, has been developed. FMD-S-SNEDDS has demonstrated acceptable micromeritic properties, and upon reconstitution in water, spherical nanosized particles were released, as demonstrated by dynamic light scattering studies and transmission electron microscopy imaging. High encapsulation efficiency of FMD in the developed SNEDDS has been attained, and the saturated solubility of the drug has increased by 20-fold when it was incorporated in the SNEDDS. Several in vitro characterizations have been carried out, including, Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, scanning electron microscopy, and drug dissolution studies. In vivo, upon administration of the free drug suspension, marketed product (FAMOTIN®) and FMD-S-SNEDDS (40 mg/kg) in peptic ulcer rat models, FMD-S-SNEDDS and the marketed FMD demonstrated 12.5- and 4.7-fold reduction in ulcers number, and 28.7- and 7.2-fold reduction in ulcer severity, respectively, compared to the control untreated animals. FMD-S-SNEDDS showed a significant (p < 0.05) increase in the levels of depleted glutathione and endothelial nitric oxide synthase, and significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the elevated level of malondialdehyde, as compared to the free and marketed FMD. Only FMD-S-SNEDDS could restore the elevated proton pump activity and cyclic adenosine monophosphate RNA expression to their normal levels. Hence, FMD-S-SNEDDS provides a great potential as a nanotherapeutic system for treatment of peptic ulcer.

The involvement of TGF-β1 /FAK/α-SMA pathway in the antifibrotic impact of rice bran oil on thioacetamide-induced liver fibrosis in rats

The objective of the current study is to investigate the effect of rice bran oil (RBO) on hepatic fibrosis as a characteristic response to persistent liver injuries. Rats were randomly allocated into five groups: the negative control group, thioacetamide (TAA) group (thioacetamide 100 mg/kg thrice weekly for two successive weeks, ip), RBO 0.2 and 0.4 groups (RBO 0.2mL and 0.4 mL/rat/day, po) and standard group (silymarin 100 mg/kg/day, po) for two weeks after TAA injection. Blood and liver tissue samples were collected for biochemical, molecular, and histological analyses. Liver functions, oxidative stress, inflammation, liver fibrosis markers were assessed. The obtained results showed that RBO reduced TAA-induced liver fibrosis and suppressed the extracellular matrix formation. Compared to the positive control group, RBO dramatically reduced total bilirubin, AST, and ALT blood levels. Furthermore, RBO reduced MDA and increased GSH contents in the liver. Simultaneously RBO downregulated the NF-κβ signaling pathway, which in turn inhibited the expression of some inflammatory mediators, including Cox-2, IL-1β, and TNF-α. RBO attenuated liver fibrosis by suppressing the biological effects of TGF-β1, α-SMA, collagen I, hydroxyproline, CTGF, and focal adhesion kinase (FAK). RBO reduced liver fibrosis by inhibiting hepatic stellate cell activation and modulating the interplay among the TGF-β1 and FAK signal transduction. The greater dosage of 0.4 mL/kg has a more substantial impact. Hence, this investigation presents RBO as a promising antifibrotic agent in the TAA model through inhibition of TGF-β1 /FAK/α-SMA.

Chrysin ameliorates STZ-induced diabetes in rats: possible impact of modulation of TLR4/NF-κβ pathway

Background and purpose:

Growing evidence advocates that upregulation of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) has been suggested as a causative influence in the development and complications of diabetes mellitus. We aimed to study the antidiabetic activity of chrysin against streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes via down-regulation of TLR4/nuclear factor (NF-κβ)/heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) pathway as well as modulation of clusters of differentiation 4 (CD4+) in rats.

Experimental approach:

Fifty rats were divided into five groups (n = 10). Group I, normal rats received a single intraperitoneal injection of buffer citrate; group II, STZ-induced diabetic rats; groups III-V, diabetic rats received glimepiride (0.5 mg/kg; p.o.) or chrysin (40 and 80 mg/kg; p.o.) respectively, for 10 days. Serum samples were extracted to determine nitric oxide (NO), malondialdehyde (MDA), and reduced glutathione (GSH), insulin, CD4+, TLR4, and NF-κβ. Pancreatic tissue samples were extracted to determine glucose transporter 2 (GLUT2). Part of the pancreas was kept in formalin for pathological studies.

Findings/Results:

An elevation in blood glucose, NO, and MDA serum levels and a reduction of pancreatic GLUT2 content, insulin, and GSH serum levels were observed in diabetic rats. STZ injection, also, showed an increase in serum TLR4, NF-κβ, and HSP70 levels and a reduction in serum CD4+ levels with pancreatic cells necrosis. These biochemical and histological changes were reversed in glimepiride and chrysin groups.

Conclusion and implications:

The present study proved that chrysin has a potent anti-diabetic effect through the elevation of insulin and GLUT2 levels, the reduction of oxidative stress, and the inflammatory pathways TLR4/NF-κβ/HSP70 with the regulation of CD4+.

Antimicrobial and Hepatoprotective Effect of Chitosan Nanoparticles In-vitro and In-vivo Study

Nanotechnology has become an extensive area of study due to the peculiar properties of nanoparticles. Chitosan is considered the most promising material for future applications. The purpose of this study was to highlight the antimicrobial and hepatoprotective properties of Chitosan nanoparticles (CTS), as well as their efficacy against multidrug-resistant pathogens and various applications as a natural antioxidant in the biomedical field. CTS were prepared with or without surfactant (L—lecithin, Tween 80) based on inotropic gelation of chitosan with sodium alginate. The nanoparticle obtained displayed a spherical shape with a particle size ranging from 54.3±20.8 to 1256±16.8 nm, zeta potential ranging from 24±1.2 to 30.8±1.1 mV, and polydispersity index ranging from 0.274±0.09 to 0.553±0.06. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) calculations were used to evaluate the antibacterial activity of CTS against four human pathogens: Bacillus subtilis ATCC6633, Staphylococcus aureus NRRLB-767, Escherichia coli ATCC25955, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC101455. The MIC values were 156.3, 39.4, 78.1, and 78.1 ug/mL, while the MBC values were 500,156.3, 312.5, and 312.5 ug/mL, respectively. S.aureus was the most susceptible, while B. subtilis was the most resistant. The hepatoprotective effect was determined by measuring antioxidant, antiapoptotic, and inflammatory biomarkers, histopathological and immunohistochemical studies. Hepatoprotective results showed a remarkable ameliorative effect against hepatotoxicity induced by CCl4.

Design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of new pyrimidine-5-carbonitrile derivatives bearing 1,3-thiazole moiety as novel anti-inflammatory EGFR inhibitors with cardiac safety profile

A new series of pyrimidine-5-carbonitrile derivatives 8a-p carrying the 1,3-thiazole moiety has been designed and synthesized as novel anti-inflammatory EGFR inhibitors with cardiac and gastric safety profiles. 8a-p have been assessed for their inhibitory activity against COX-1/COX-2 activity. Compounds 8h, 8n, and 8p were found to be potent and selective COX-2 inhibitors (IC₅₀ = 1.03-1.71 μM) relative to celecoxib (IC₅₀ = 0.88 μM). The most potent COX-2 inhibitors have been further investigated for their in-vivo anti-inflammatory effect. Compounds 8h, 8n, and 8p showed anti-inflammatory activity up to 90%, 94% and 86% of meloxicam after 4 h interval. 8h, 8n, and 8p showed higher gastric safety profiles than meloxicam. A substantial reduction in serum concentrations of PGE₂, TNF-α, IL-6, iNO and MDA and a significant induction of TAC was also observed. In vivo experiments on heart rate and blood pressure established the cardiovascular safety profile of 8h, 8n, and 8p. Anti-proliferative and wild-type EGFR inhibitory assays displayed similar results to selective COX-2 inhibition where compounds 8h, 8n, and 8p had a superior inhibition than other tested ones. Molecular docking study demonstrated that these compounds revealed similar orientation and binding interactions as selective COX-2 inhibitors with a higher liability to enter the side pocket selectively. Also, they interacted with EGFR tyrosine kinase main amino acids similar to erlotinib with a strong binding energy score.

Anti-oxidant impact of Lisinopril and Enalapril against acute kidney injury induced by doxorubicin in male Wistar rats: involvement of kidney injury molecule-1

Doxorubicin (DOX) is a standard anticancer agent exerting devastating effects as nephrotoxicity, hepatotoxicity and cardiotoxicity. The purpose of this study was to increase the clinical use of DOX through decreasing its detrimental effects via combination with ACE inhibitors to ameliorate the induced acute kidney injury (AKI). AKI was induced by a single injection of DOX (7.5 mg/kg; i.p.) as Group 1; control (vehicle), Group 2; DOX (7.5 mg/kg; i.p.) single dose, Group 3 and 4; Lisinopril (Lis, 20 mg/kg) and Enalapril (Enal, 40 mg/kg) orally administration for 15 consecutive days after DOX injection, respectively. Serum samples were used to measure creatinine and BUN, tissue samples were extracted to determine myeloperoxidase (MPO), malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and kidney injury molecule (KIM-1) using ELISA technique. Heme oxygenase (HO-1) RNA expression was quantified in tissue using real time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Parts of the kidney tissue were kept in formalin for immunohistochemical demonstration of Cleaved Caspase-3 and NF-κβ immune staining and the other part was used for pathological examination. Oral treatment with Lis (20 mg/kg) and Enal (40 mg/kg) for 15 consecutive days reversed DOX effects as they reduced the serum creatinine and BUN, kidney levels of MPO and MDA, whereas the drugs increased tissue TAC. The administration of Lis and Enal with DOX also reduced KIM-1and HO-1 RNA expression. A significant decrease in cleaved caspase-3 and NF-κβ immunostainings in conjunction with pronounced amelioration in pathologies in the rat kidney were observed. We concluded that DOX adverse effects can be controlled by Lis and Enal.

Melatonin suppresses the brain injury after cerebral ischemia/reperfusion in hyperglycaemic rats

Background and purpose

Diabetes mellitus is a disorder accompanied by oxidative and inflammatory responses, that might exacerbate vascular complications. The purpose of this study was to investigate the potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of melatonin (MLN) on streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats subjected to middle cerebral artery occlusion followed by reperfusion (MCAO/Re).

Experimental approach

Diabetes was induced in rats by a single injection of STZ (55 mg/kg; i.p.). The cerebral injury was then induced by MCAO/Re after six weeks. After 24 h of MCAO/Re the MLN (10 mg/kg) was administered orally for 14 days. Serum and tissue samples were extracted to determine malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), nitric oxide (NO), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and the tumor necrosis factor- α (TNF-α). Part of the brain tissue was kept in formalin for pathological and immunohistochemical studies to determine nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) immune reactivity.

Findings/Results

MCAO/Re in STZ-induced hyperglycaemic rats caused a decrease in brain GSH, an increase in brain MDA, and NO was increased in both serum and brain tissue. Rats showed a prominent increase in the serum and brain inflammatory markers viz. IL-1β and TNF-α. Oral treatment with MLN (10 mg/kg) for two weeks reduced the brain levels of MDA, NO, IL-1β, and TNF-α. Impressive amelioration in pathological findings, as well as a significant decrease in NF-kB and COX2 immune stained cells of the cerebral cortex, hippocampus, and cerebellum, occurred after treatment with MLN. It also succeeded to suppress the exacerbation of damage in the brain of hyperglycaemic rats.

Conclusion and implications

Daily intake of MLN attenuates the exacerbation of cerebral ischemic injury in a diabetic state.

Impact of type III collagen on monosodium iodoacetate-induced osteoarthritis in rats

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative chronic disease that affects various tissues surrounding the joints, such as the subchondral bone and articular cartilage. The purpose of the study was to investigate the impact of collagen type III (CIII; 10 mg/kg; p.o.) on OA evidenced by restoration of articular cartilage structural changes as well as inflammatory responses using an established rat model of OA. OA was induced in rats by a single intra-articular injection of monosodium iodoacetate (MIA) through the right knee of the rats. Oral administration of CIII was undergone for 14 consecutive days. Changes in joint volume were measured throughout the experiment period with one-week intervals. At the end of the experiment, the rats were placed in the activity cage, and their activities were counted. Oxidative stress and nitrosative biomarkers were assessed by measuring the serum levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH) and nitric oxide (NOx). Moreover, inflammatory markers viz. interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis nuclear factor-alpha (TNF-α) were measured. In addition, radiographic analysis and histopathological examination of the rat's knee were performed. The results of the current study revealed that oral treatment of MIA-induced osteoarthritic rats with CIII (10 mg/kg) for two weeks showed a marked decrease in the joint volume which led eventually to a prominent increase in the motor activity. Furthermore, treatment with CIII restored the serum levels of MDA, GSH, NOx, IL-6, IL-1β and the TNF-α. Furthermore, CIII succeeded to ameliorate the detrimental effect of MIA on radiographic images and histopathological alterations of the joint. From these findings, it can be concluded that CIII has regenerative and anti-inflammatory properties, thus has the ability to counteract MIA-induced OA in rat. Finally, CIII is said to be a potential anti-osteoarthritic candidate.

Antidepressant Activity of Alpha-lactalbumin in Chronic Unpredictable Stress Model in Swiss Albino Mice

BACKGROUND: Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a leading cause for morbidity and mortality. Whey protein components are recently used as functional foods with health benefits. Alpha-lactalbumin (A-LA) is an important component of whey protein. It is a good source of the essential amino acids. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to examine the possible antidepressant effect of whey protein against MDD induced by chronic unpredictable stress (CUS) in mice. MATERIALS AND METHODS: CUS model is used to induce depression in mice for 24 consecutive days and aimed to evaluate the ability of A-LA compared to fluoxetine to recover depression symptoms. Thirty minutes before exposure to the physical stressor, mice were given A-LA daily in a dose of 75, 150, and 300 mg/kg bwt. RESULTS: The highest dose of A-LA (300 mg/kg bwt.) lessens depression induced in mice. CONCLUSION: This effect might contribute to elevate the level of glutamate and monoamine neurotransmitters, γ-amino-butyric acid inhibition, and enhancement of glutathione in brain tissue.

Isolation of antiosteoporotic compounds from seeds of Sophora japonica

Chemical investigation of Sophora japonica seeds resulted in the isolation of seven metabolites identified as: genistin (1), sophoricoside (2), sophorabioside (3), sophoraflavonoloside (4), genistein 7,4'-di-O-β-D-glucopyransoide (5), kaempferol 3-O-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl(1 → 6)β-D-glucopyranosyl(1 → 2)β-D-glucopyranoside (6) and rutin (7). Compounds 1, 2 and 5 showed significant estrogenic proliferative effect in MCF-7 cell in sub-cytotoxic concentration range. Compounds 1 and 2 showed minimal cell membrane damaging effect using LDH leakage assay. Accordingly, compound 2 (sophoricoside, (SPH)) was selected for further in-vivo studies as a potential anti-osteoporosis agent. The anti-osteoporotic effect of SPH was assessed in ovarectomized (OVX) rats after oral administration (15 mg/kg and 30 mg/kg) for 45 days compared to estradiol (10 µg/kg) as a positive control. Only in a dose of 30 mg/kg, SPH regained the original mechanical bone hardness compared to normal non-osteoporotic group. However, SPH (15 mg/kg) significantly increased the level of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) to normal level. Treatment with SPH (30 mg/kg) increased the level of ALP to be higher than normal group. SPH (15 mg/kg) did not significantly increase the serum level of osteocalcin (OC) compared to OVX group. On the other hand, treatment with SPH (30 mg/kg) significantly increased the level of OC to 78% higher than normal non-ovarectomized animals group. In addition, SPH (15 mg/kg) decreased the bone resorption marker, acid phosphatase (ACP) to normal level and SPH (30 mg/kg) further diminished the level of serum ACP. Histopathologically, sophoricoside ameliorated the ovarectomy induced osteoporosis in a dose dependent manner. The drug showed thicker bony trabeculae, more osteoid, and more osteoblastic rimming compared to OVX group.

Novel CoQ10 antidiabetic mechanisms underlie its positive effect: modulation of insulin and adiponectine receptors, Tyrosine kinase, PI3K, glucose transporters, sRAGE and visfatin in insulin resistant/diabetic rats

As a nutritional supplement, coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) was tested previously in several models of diabetes and/or insulin resistance (IR); however, its exact mechanisms have not been profoundly explicated. Hence, the objective of this work is to verify some of the possible mechanisms that underlie its therapeutic efficacy. Moreover, the study aimed to assess the potential modulatory effect of CoQ10 on the antidiabetic action of glimebiride. An insulin resistance/type 2 diabetic model was adopted, in which rats were fed high fat/high fructose diet (HFFD) for 6 weeks followed by a single sub-diabetogenic dose of streptozotocin (35 mg/kg, i.p.). At the end of the 7^th week animals were treated with CoQ10 (20 mg/kg, p.o) and/or glimebiride (0.5 mg/kg, p.o) for 2 weeks. CoQ10 alone opposed the HFFD effect and increased the hepatic/muscular content/activity of tyrosine kinase (TK), phosphatidylinositol kinase (PI3K), and adiponectin receptors. Conversely, it decreased the content/activity of insulin receptor isoforms, myeloperoxidase and glucose transporters (GLUT4; 2). Besides, it lowered significantly the serum levels of glucose, insulin, fructosamine and HOMA index, improved the serum lipid panel and elevated the levels of glutathione, sRAGE and adiponectin. On the other hand, CoQ10 lowered the serum levels of malondialdehyde, visfatin, ALT and AST. Surprisingly, CoQ10 effect surpassed that of glimepiride in almost all the assessed parameters, except for glucose, fructosamine, TK, PI3K, and GLUT4. Combining CoQ10 with glimepiride enhanced the effect of the latter on the aforementioned parameters. Conclusion: These results provided a new insight into the possible mechanisms by which CoQ10 improves insulin sensitivity and adjusts type 2 diabetic disorder. These mechanisms involve modulation of insulin and adiponectin receptors, as well as TK, PI3K, glucose transporters, besides improving lipid profile, redox system, sRAGE, and adipocytokines. The study also points to the potential positive effect of CoQ10 as an adds- on to conventional antidiabetic therapies.

Protective effect of Calligonum comosum on haloperidol-induced oxidative stress in rat

The aqueous and methanolic extracts of Calligonum comosum were investigated for their antioxidant and dopaminergic effects on haloperidol (HL)-induced neuro- and hepatotoxicities in male albino rat model. The total phenolics, flavonoid content and free radical-scavenging activity of the extracts were determined. The results showed that the antioxidant activity of the methanolic extract was higher than the aqueous one. HL significantly reduced GSH and increased MDA in brain and liver tissues. These values were nearly normalized, in the examined tissues, on concomitant administration of C. comosum methanolic extract with HL. Superoxide dismutase activity in the examined tissues was significantly decreased by HL administration that was normalized by the coadministration of the methanolic extract and, to a less extent, the water extract. Determination of the brain neurotransmitter contents revealed a marked decrease in norepinephrine, dopamine and serotonin, which were restored to near control values by concomitant administration of both C. comosum extracts with HL. The results of this study showed that C. comosum methanolic and aqueous extracts ameliorated HL-induced neuro- and hepatotoxicities in rats.

Evaluation of the Antihyperlipidemic, Anti-inflammatory, Analgesic, and Antipyretic Activities of Ethanolic Extract of Ammi majus Seeds in Albino Rats and Mice

Pharmacological and biochemical studies on the Ammi majus seeds L. (family Umbelliferae) grown in Egypt are limited. Furocoumarins are the major constituents in the plant seeds. In the present study, the evaluation of the antihyperlipidemic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic activities on albino rats and mice was done. After 2 months of administration, both the doses (50 and 100 mg/kg body weight [bwt], respectively) of the alcoholic extract of the A. majus seed result in a significant decrease in the concentrations of cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein and increase in the concentration of high-density lipoprotein. The extract was found to inhibit the rat paw edema at both the doses, which means that it exerts a significant anti-inflammatory activity compared with control-untreated groups at the intervals of 30 and 60 minutes posttreatment. The antipyretic effect of the extract was quite obvious; it showed that 100 mg/kg bwt was more potent in lowering body temperature starting after 1 hour of treatment than the lower dose (50 mg/kg bwt). It is worth to mention that the A. majus extract with its coumarin contents as well as the tested biological activities of the plant was investigated for the first time in the current study. In conclusion, ethanolic extract of the A. majus seeds had antihyperlipidemic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic activities that are dose dependant.