Biosensors for the detection of pathogenic bacteria: current status and future perspectives

Pathogenic microorganisms pose significant threats to human health, food safety and environmental integrity. Rapid and accurate detection of these pathogens is essential to mitigate their impact. Fast, sensitive detection methods such as biosensors also play a critical role in preventing outbreaks and controlling their spread. In recent years, biosensors have emerged as a revolutionary technology for pathogen detection. This review aims to present the current developments in biosensor technology, investigate the methods by which these developments are used in the detection of pathogenic bacteria and highlight future perspectives on the subject.

Assessment of the levels of some prognostic biomolecules (galectins, ACE2, SCUBE1/2/3) in COVID-19 patients

Aim: Our aim was to investigate the differences between healthy people and COVID-19 patients in terms of some immunological biomolecules, especially including those related to the inflammation process. Materials & methods: A total of 180 participants (90 healthy controls and 90 COVID-19 patients) were included. The expression levels of eight different inflammation-related biomolecules were measured by the ELISA technique. Results: The mean levels of ACE2, ANG1-7, GAL3, GAL9, SCUBE1, SCUBE2 and SCUBE3 were elevated in COVID-19 patients when compared with healthy controls, while the mean level of GAL2 was lower in COVID-19 patients than controls. Conclusion: To understand the cytokine storm mechanism and related parameters, more detailed studies should be performed investigating more related biomolecules and related signaling pathways.

Two flavonoids, baicalein and naringin, are effective as anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant agents in a rat model of polymicrobial sepsis

INTRODUCTION

In this study, our aim was to investigate the possible protective and therapeutic effects of these two flavonoids, baicalein, and naringin, in 50 and 100 mg/kg doses applied both before and after cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) procedures in a polymicrobial sepsis rat model, and evaluate the possible contribution of oxidative and inflammatory markers by immunological, biochemical, molecular, and histopathological methods.

METHODS

Sixty-six Wistar albino rats were divided into 11 groups. The pro-inflammatory (TNF-alpha, IL-1-beta, and IL-6) and anti-inflammatory (TGF-beta and IL-10) cytokine levels were measured by ELISA technique. CD3, CD68, and nuclear factor kappa B positivity rates were detected by immunohistochemical methods. Oxidative stress parameters (MDA, SOD, and GSH) were measured by tissue biochemistry.

RESULTS

Sepsis caused a significant increase in all pro-inflammatory cytokine levels and MDA activity. Also, it led to an increase in the positivities of CD3, CD68, and NF-κB markers. However, especially pre-CLP doses of baicalein and naringin inhibited the inflammation process by suppressing pro-inflammatory and increasing anti-inflammatory cytokine levels, as well as regulating the oxidative stress process by normalizing the oxidant/anti-oxidant enzyme levels.

CONCLUSION

Both pre- and post-application of baicalein and naringin are quite effective to prevent sepsis-caused cellular processes. This protective and therapeutic effects by baicalein and naringin in animals with sepsis seems to be originated from the high antioxidant capacity and inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokine production. Thus, those natural agents may prove to be valuable protective agent against septic shock.

All Microbiological Aspects of SARS-CoV-2 Virus

The COVID-19 disease, caused by SARS-CoV-2 virus, which was first seen in Wuhan (China) on December 31, 2019, rapidly spread to cities, countries, and continents and was noted in history as the first pandemic caused by coronaviruses. According to the World Health Organization reports, more than 645 million confirmed SARS-CoV-2-positive cases and more than 6.5 million confirmed deaths were noted all over the world during the pandemic (between December 2020 and December 2022). Although SARS-CoV-2 is a virus belonging to the coronavirus family, our knowledge of the pathogenesis and immune response of SARS-CoV-2 is still limited. Approximately 10 years (2012) after the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV) (nearly 2200 confirmed cases and 791 confirmed deaths) and 20 years (2002-2004) after the SARS-CoV epidemic (29 different countries, nearly 8000 confirmed cases, and 774 confirmed deaths), the current COVID-19 pandemic is a reminder of how new pathogens can emerge and spread rapidly, eventually causing serious public health problems. Further research is needed to establish animal models for SARSCoV-2 to investigate replication, transmission dynamics, and pathogenesis in humans in order to develop effective antiviral treatments and vaccines.

Factors leading to dissemination of cutaneous anthrax: an international ID-IRI study

Background

Although anthrax is a rare zoonotic infection, it still causes significant mortality and morbidity. In this multicenter study, which is the largest anthrax case series ever reported, we aimed to describe the factors leading to dissemination of cutaneous anthrax.

Methods

Adult patients with cutaneous anthrax from 16 referral centers were pooled. The study had a retrospective design, and included patients treated between January 1, 1990 and December 1, 2019. Probable, and confirmed cases based upon CDC anthrax 2018 case definition were included in the study. A descriptive statistical analysis was performed for all variables.

Results

A total of 141 cutaneous anthrax patients were included. Of these, 105 (74%) patients had probable and 36 (26%) had confirmed diagnosis. Anthrax meningitis and bacteremia occurred in three and six patients, respectively. Sequelae were observed in three patients: cicatricial ectropion followed by ocular anthrax (n = 2) and movement restriction on the left hand after surgical intervention (n = 1). One patient had gastrointestinal anthrax. The parameters related to poor outcome (p < 0.05) were fever, anorexia, hypoxia, malaise/fatigue, cellulitis, fasciitis, lymphadenopathy, leukocytosis, high CRP and creatinine levels, longer duration of antimicrobial therapy, and combined therapy. The last two were seemingly the consequences of dissemination rather than being the reasons. The fatality rate was 1.4%.

Conclusions

Rapid identification of anthrax is crucial for prompt and effective treatment. Systemic symptoms, disseminated local infection, and high inflammatory markers should alert the treating physicians for the dissemination of the disease.

The effectiveness of inactivated SARS-CoV-2 vaccine (CoronaVac) on antibody response in participants aged 65 years and older

In this study, it was aimed to determine the antibody responses after the two doses of inactivated severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccinations in people who were above 65 years old and to evaluate the factors affecting this response. A total of 235 participants aged 65 years and older were included. Blood samples were taken and data about age, gender, comorbid diseases, and presence of side effects after vaccination were noted. Anti-SARS-CoV-2 QuantiVac ELISA (IgG) test kit (catalogue number: EI-2606-9601-10-G, Euroimmun) was used. The mean age was 70.38 ± 4.76. Approximately 120 of 235 participants had at least one comorbid disease. The mean levels of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibody after 4 weeks from the first and second doses of vaccine were 37.70 ± 57.08 IU/ml, and 194.61 ± 174.88 IU/ml, respectively. Additionally, 134 of 235 participants (57.02%) had under 25.6 IU/ml antibody level (negative) after 4 weeks from the first vaccine dose while this rate was 11.48% (n = 27) after 4 weeks from the second vaccine dose. The 19 (70.4%) participants who had under had 25.6 IU/ml antibody level after 4 weeks from the first dose of vaccine had at least one comorbid disease including diabetes mellitus, and 8 (29.6%) participants had no comorbid disease (F = 2.352, p = 0.006). Lower rates of antibody response were detected in participants aged 65 years and older and those with comorbidities both in our study and similar studies in the current literature. Further studies should evaluate whether the low antibody titers are really associated with age and comorbidities or not. Finally, prospective studies are needed to determine how long the immunity provided by SARS-CoV-2 vaccines will continue.

Molecular characterization, phylogenetic and variation analyses of SARS-CoV-2 strains in Turkey

Aims: We present the sequence and single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analysis for 47 complete genomes for SARS-CoV-2 isolates on Turkish patients. Methods: The Illumina MiSeq platform was used for sequencing the libraries. The SNPs were detected by using Genome Analysis Toolkit – HaplotypeCaller v.3.8.0 and were inspected on GenomeBrowse v2.1.2. Results: All viral genome sequences of our isolates were located in lineage B under the different clusters, such as B.1 (n = 3), B.1.1 (n = 28) and B.1.9 (n = 16). According to the Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data nomenclature, all of our complete genomes were placed in G, GR and GH clades. In our study, 549 total and 53 unique SNPs were detected. Conclusion: The results indicate that the SARS-CoV-2 sequences of our isolates have great similarity with all Turkish and European sequences.

Prevalence of COVID-19 in 10,000 samples from 7853 patients in Eastern Turkey by positive real-time PCR

Aim:

COVID-19, caused by SARS-CoV-2, started in December 2019 and has spread across the world.

Materials & methods:

We analyzed real-time PCR results of 10,000 samples from 2 April to 30 May 2020 in three neighbor cities located in the East of Turkey. The final study population was 7853 cases, after excluding screening tests.

Results:

Real-time PCR was performed to detect the SARS-CoV-2-specific RNA-dependent-RNA-polymerase gene fragment. The number of total positive samples out of 7853 were 487; however, the number of nonrepeating positive patient was 373 (4.8%). Cough and fever were the most common symptoms in positive cases.

Conclusion:

Epidemiologic studies should be performed about the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 infection to better understand the effect of the virus across the world.

Saliva samples for detection of SARS-CoV-2 in mildly symptomatic and asymptomatic patients

BACKGROUND

The ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic has been rapidly spreading throughout the world with confirmed case numbers already exceeding 75 million. Although nasopharyngeal swabs are the most commonly utilized samples for based severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) RNA detection, collecting these specimens requires healthcare workers and necessitates the use of personal protective equipment as it presents a nosocomial transmission risk. We aimed to assess the diagnostic value of saliva samples in mildly symptomatic and asymptomatic patients with confirmed Covid-19.

METHODS

We performed a cohort study to validate the use of saliva for SARS-CoV-2 detection in mildly symptomatic and asymptomatic patients with a confirmed diagnosis of Covid-19. Saliva samples of the patients were analyzed by reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).

RESULTS

In May 2020, 28 asymptomatic and 25 mildly symptomatic patients were enrolled in the study. The median age was 37 years (range 4-70). None of the patients had a fever on presentation. Among 53 patients with SARS-CoV-2 detected in the nasopharyngeal sample, the real-time RT-PCR was positive in the saliva specimens in 48 (90.56%) patients. The mean cycle threshold (CT) values for nasopharyngeal and saliva specimens (27.80 ± 3.44 and 30.64 ± 2.83, respectively) were significantly correlated between the two sample types (p = .016). The mean CT values of nasopharyngeal and saliva samples in mildly symptomatic and asymptomatic patients (27.18 ± 3.53 and 30.24 ± 3.29 vs. 28.36 ± 3.31 and 30.98 ± 2.39, respectively) were not significantly different (p = .236 and p = .733, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Saliva specimens can be considered as a reliable and less resource-intensive alternative to nasopharyngeal specimens for screening asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infections.

The anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and protective effects of a probiotic mixture on organ toxicity in a rat model

Aim: The objective of this study was to evaluate the possible protective effects of probiotic bacteria, especially Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus strains, on 4,4'-dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT)-induced toxicity. For this reason, we evaluated the relationship between probiotics and toxicity by checking immunological and immunohistochemical parameters. Materials & methods: Probiotic pretreatment was applied to 36 Wistar albino rats for 12 consecutive days. Serum aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase levels were detected. CD3 and NF-κB staining methods were then performed by immunohistochemistry. Finally, pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines were measured by ELISA. Results: DDT caused a serious increase/decrease in some cytokine parameters. The effective dose was 1 × 10¹¹ colony-forming unit probiotic treatment. CD3 and NF-κB positivity were intense in DDT group whereas the intensity was reduced in probiotic treatment groups. Discussion: The probiotic mixture has a potential to prevent inflammatory and oxidative stress related organ injuries. Further studies should be performed to explain the possible mechanisms.

Molecular characterization of small and medium segments of Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus in Turkey

Aim: The objective was to investigate the genotypic relationship of S and M segments in Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV) by phylogenetic analysis in 25 patients from seven endemic cities in Turkey. Materials & methods: A total of 25 samples from patients with CCHF were included between 2012 and 2015. Phylogenetic tree analyses were inferred using MEGA version-6.0 and distances were calculated by Kimura’s 2-parameter. Results: Phylogenetic analysis showed that all isolated viruses (n = 25) were in the predicted clades such as clade V- Europe-1 regarding both S and M segments of the CCHFV. Conclusion: Further epidemiological, molecular and phylogenic studies should be performed in both reservoir animals/vectors and humans to determine the incidence of tick-borne infectious disease and to help to develop vaccines for prevention of the disease.

Serological Investigation of Occupational Exposure to Zoonotic Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Infection

Objective

Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is an acute and highly fatal disease. In this study, our aim was to compare and evaluate the prevalence of CCHF virus (CCHFV) antibody among occupational high-risk groups by using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and draw attention to the occupational groups that are at high risk for CCHF infection in an endemic region for this zoonotic infection in Erzurum, Turkey.

Materials and Methods

The antibody levels against CCHFV were surveyed among slaughterhouse workers, animal breeders, and veterinarians. The study population was composed of 72 participants having direct contact with animals and 19 blood donors who were not in direct contact with animals.

Results

The overall rate of CCHF immunoglobulin G positivity in risk groups was found to be 6.94% (5/72). CCHFV antibodies were found in 4 (12.5%) individuals of the animal breeder group. This ratio was considered significantly higher compared with the healthy control group. CCHFV antibodies were found in only one person (4.0%) who was an abattoir worker. In the veterinarian group, all people were found negative.

Conclusion

In our study, the variables showing important associations with the prevalence of anti-CCHFV antibodies were livestock breeding, rural areas, and age. It was concluded that our region is endemic with regard to CCHF infection and persons who had direct contact with animals are at high risk. Thus, these participants must take necessary measures to protect themselves from CCHF and should be trained by health authorities.

The effects of mucosal media on some pathogenic traits of Crohn's disease-associated Escherichia coli LF82

Aim: Adherent-invasive Escherichia coli (AIEC) pathovar has been identified in intestinal mucosa of patients with Crohn's disease. Our aim was to compare the impact of sterile mucosal media (Muc-M) originated from different parts of the intestine on some pathogenic traits of AIEC LF82 strain. Materials & methods: Muc-M composed of certain rates of cell culture medium or M63 minimal medium and mucosal contents obtained from different part of intestine were designed for cell-infection experiments and biofilm-formation assays. Results: The results showed that Muc-M reduced usually pathogenic properties of AIEC LF82. However, LF82 adhesion, invasion and specific biofilm formations were markedly higher in Muc-MCR than those in Muc-MIR . Conclusion: In this context, the findings of present study could help the endeavors related to determining molecular targets for AIEC bacteria.

Intravitreal Infliximab Injection to Treat Experimental Endophthalmitis

Objective

The purpose of this study was to compare the use of an intravitreal injection of infliximab and of dexamethasone combined with vancomycin to treat experimental endophthalmitis induced by Staphylococcus epidermidis.

Materials and Methods

The study was conducted between March 25 and April 13, 2012. Twenty-five six-month-old healthy rabbits were used, each weighing 2.5-3 kg. The rabbits were randomized into five groups with five animals per group. Endophthalmitis was induced by 0.1 mL (103 colony-forming units) S. epidermidis in all groups. In group 1, injection was not implemented after the occurrence of endophthalmitis. In groups 2, 3, and 4, the following intravitreal injections were given 24 h after the occurrence of endophthalmitis: group 2, 0.1 mg/0.1 mL vancomycin; group 3, 1 mg/0.1 mL vancomycin and 1 mg/0.1 mL dexamethasone; and group 4, 1 mg/0.1 mL vancomycin and 2 mg/0.1 mL infliximab. Group 5 was the control/uninfected group. The rabbits were clinically assessed each day for seven days. On day 9, a histopathologic evaluation was performed after enucleation.

Results

After a clinical evaluation, no statistically significant difference was found between the vancomycin+infliximab and vancomycin+dexamethasone groups (p>0.05). The difference was significant when both groups were compared with the vancomycin group (p<0.001). After the histopathologic evaluation, no statistically significant difference was found among the three groups (p>0.05).

Conclusion

An intravitreal injection of infliximab and of dexamethasone combined with vancomycin have similar clinical and histopathologic effects. To supplement the antibiotic treatment of endophthalmitis, infliximab in a safe dose range can be used as an alternative to dexamethasone to suppress inflammation and prevent ocular damage.

Anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of apigenin in a rat model of sepsis: an immunological, biochemical, and histopathological study

OBJECTIVE

We hypothesize that apigenin may inhibit some cellular process of sepsis-induced spleen injury and simultaneously improve inflammation and oxidative stress. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the potential protective effects of apigenin in a polymicrobial sepsis rat model of by cecal ligation and puncture.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

64 female Wistar albino rats were divided into 8 groups. The pro-inflammatory (tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-6, and interleukin-1-beta) and anti-inflammatory (tumor growth factor-beta and interleukin-10) cytokine levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. CD3, CD68, and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) positivity rates were detected by immunohistochemical methods. Oxidative stress parameters were measured by tissue biochemistry.

RESULTS

Sepsis caused a significant increase in TNF-alpha, IL-1-beta, IL-6, and TGF-beta levels whereas it reduced IL-10 level. Additionally, it led to an increase in CD3, CD68, and NF-κB positivity rates as well as oxidative stress parameters levels. However, apigenin inhibited the inflammation process, increased the IL-10 level and normalized the oxidative stress parameters.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

Pretreatment with apigenin results in a significant reduction in the amount of inflammatory cells. The beneficial effect of apigenin on spleen injury also involved inhibition of NF-κB pathway, suppression of proinflammatory cytokines, and induction of anti-inflammatory cytokine production. Additionally, it led to a decrease in oxidative stress in spleen tissue. Taking everything into account, apigenin may be an alternative therapeutic option for prevention of sepsis-induced organ.

Seroprevalence of hepatitis E virus in animal workers in nonporcine consumption region of Turkey

Aim: Our aim was to investigate the prevalence of hepatitis E virus (HEV) and its potential zoonotic role in occupational groups that come into direct contact with domestic ruminants and chickens. Materials & methods: The seroprevalence of the HEV IgG antibody was determined on 92 samples using a commercial ELISA test kit. Results: The overall rate of HEV-IgG seroprevalence in the risk group was 35.9%. The control group seroprevalence was found to be 4.4%. Conclusion: HEV infection is a potential occupational hazard for people who work in jobs directly related to animals, with the exception of veterinarians, who use protective equipments to prevent the infection. Further studies should be performed with increased observation of specific risk groups in order to understand the local epidemiology and guide vaccination strategies.

The Immunostimulatory Effect of Lactic Acid Bacteria in a Rat Model

BACKGROUND

Probiotics are "live", beneficial microbes that provide important health benefits in their hosts. There is significant interest in the modulation and regulation of the immune function by probiotics.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the immunomodulatory effects of a probiotic mixture, including Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species, by detecting serum cytokine and immunoglobulin levels.

METHODS

The rats were randomly divided into 4 groups. The first group was "Control group" and other 3 groups were probiotic application groups who received different doses of probiotics. The probiotic mixture included 12 probiotic bacteria, mostly Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains. Probiotic mixture was administered to rats for 12 consecutive days. TNF-α, TGF-β, IL-1-β, IL-6, and IL-10 levels as well as serum IgG and IgA concentrations were detected in the sera after 12 days.

RESULTS

Probiotics led to a decrease in the levels of TNF-α, IL-6 and TGF-β; however, they led to increase in the serum levels of IL-10, IgG and IgA. There were significant differences between control group and probiotic application groups (p<0.05).

CONCLUSION

These data suggest that the commensal microbiota are important for stimulating both proinflammatory and regulatory responses in order to rapidly clear infections and minimize inflammation-associated tissue damage.

The protective effects of epigallocatechin gallate on lipopolysa ccharide-induced hepatotoxicity: an in vitro study on Hep3B cells

OBJECTIVES

In the present study, our aim was to investigate the possible protective effects of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced hepatotoxicity by using Hep3B human hepatoma cells. Specifically, the study examines the role of some proinflammatory markers and oxidative damage as possible mechanisms of LPS-associated cytotoxicity. Consequently, the hepatocellular carcinoma cell line Hep3B was chosen as a model for investigation of LPS toxicity and the effect of EGCG on LPS-exposed cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The Hep3B human hepatoma cells were used for this study. The cytotoxic effects of chemicals (EGCG and LPS), AST and ALT levels, SOD and CAT activities, GSH-Px level and TNF-alpha and IL-6 levels were detected by using different biochemical and molecular methods. LPS and EGCG were applied to cells at various times and doses.

RESULTS

The highest treatment dose of EGCG (400 µM) led to a dramatic decrease in SOD level and increase in CAT and GSH levels. Additionally, the highest dose of EGCG also led to a dramatic increase in TNF-alpha and IL-6 levels. On the other hand, effective doses of EGCG (200 and 100 µM) normalized all related parameters levels.

CONCLUSION

LPS caused hepatotoxicity, but interestingly, a high dose of EGCG was found to be a cytotoxic agent in this study. However, other two doses of EGCG led to a decrease in both inflammatory cytokine levels and antioxidant enzyme levels. Further studies should examine the effect of EGCG on secondary cellular signaling pathways.

Preventive effects of a major component of green tea, epigallocathechin-3-gallate, on hepatitis-B virus DNA replication

BACKGROUND

Hepatitis B virus infection is one of the major world health problems. Epigallocatechin-3 gallate is the major component of the polyphenolic fraction of green tea and it has an anti-viral, anti-mutagenic, anti- tumorigenic, anti-angiogenic, anti-proliferative, and/or pro-apoptotic effects on mammalian cells. In this study, our aim was to investigate the inhibition of HBV replication by epigallocatechin-3 gallate in the Hep3B2.1-7 hepatocellular carcinoma cell line.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

HBV-replicating Hep3B2.1-7 cells were used to investigate the preventive effects of epigallocatechin-3 gallate on HBV DNA replication. The expression levels of HBsAg and HBeAg were determined using ELISA. Quantitative real-time-PCR was applied for the determination of the expression level of HBV DNA.

RESULTS

Cytotoxicity of epigallocathechin-3-gallate was not observed in the hepatic carcinoma cell line when the dose was lower than 100 μM. The ELISA method demonstrated that epigallocatechin-3 gallate have strong effects on HBsAg and HBeAg levels. Also it was detected by real-time PCR that epigallocatechin-3 gallate could prevent HBV DNA replication.

CONCLUSIONS

The obtained data pointed out that although the exact mechanism of HBV DNA replication and related diseases remains unclear, epigallocatechin-3 gallate has a potential as an effective anti-HBV agent with low toxicity.

Investigation of Helicobacter pylori antigen in stool samples of patients with upper gastrointestinal complaints

Helicobacter pylori infection is usually acquired in early childhood and it can persist throughout life without antibiotic treatment. This study aimed to compare the accuracy of the noninvasive H. pylori Stool Antigen Test-applied on the stool samples with the invasive gold standart Rapid Urease Test-applied on the gastric biopy samples of patients with upper gastrointestinal complaints. After endoscopy, biopsy and stool specimens were taken in 122 patients. The infection was detected with rapid urease test which is accepted as gold standart test. Rapid, one-step H. pylori card test was applied to all patients stool specimens. In this study 106 of the 122 patients (86.8%) were positive for H. pylori infection, while 16 of the 122 patients (13.2%) were negative. H. pylori card test was negative in 13 of the 16 patients and was positive in 98 of the 106. The sensitivity, specifity, positive and negative predictive values were 92.45%, 81.25%, 97.02%, and 61.90%, respectively. H. pylori card test is rapid, easy, noninvasive and inexpensive methods for detection H. pylori infection. This test showed high sensitivity and specificity. Additionally, it may be a good alternative to invasive tests for the detection of H. pylori infections especially in children.

The protective effects of beta-carotene against ischemia/reperfusion injury in rat ovarian tissue

INTRODUCTION

Beta-carotene is a well-known antioxidant and precursor of Vitamin A that has a preventative role in the oxidative damage process. Our aim was to investigate the possible preventive effects of beta-carotene on oxidative damage via experimental ischemia and ischemia-reperfusion models in rat ovaries.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A traumatic vascular clamps were used for 3h to induce ischemia (Group 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7). The clamps were then removed to allow reperfusion for 3h (Group 3, 6, 7). Sham-operated rats (Group 1) underwent laparotomy without the induction of ischemia/reperfusion injury. Real-Time-PCR was performed to determine IL-1-beta, IL-6 and iNOS expression levels. Histopathological (H&E) and immunohistochemical staining (NF-kβ p65) processes were then performed. Finally, SOD, GSH, and MDA levels were determined.

RESULTS

Intense hemorrhagic areas were observed in both the ischemia and ischemia/reperfusion groups, whereas minimal hemorrhage was observed in the treatment groups. The ischemia and ischemia/reperfusion groups exhibited extreme immunoreactivity, detected by NF-kβ p65 staining; this reactivity decreased after the application of beta-carotene. The expression of IL-1-beta, IL-6, and iNOS in the injury groups increased significantly, whereas a dose-dependent improvement was observed in the treatment groups. Finally, MDA levels increased significantly and SOD and GSH levels decreased drastically in the injury groups. However, these values obtained from I/R groups were normalized after beta-carotene treatment.

DISCUSSION

In this study, we demonstrated via molecular and biochemical parameters the protective effect of beta-carotene, which is a potent antioxidant, on the experimental ischemia-reperfusion model.

Comparative study on effects of nebulized and oral salbutamol on a cecal ligation and puncture-induced sepsis model in rats

AIM

The present study aimed to compare the effects of different routes of salbutamol administration (oral and nebulized) at different doses in a cecal ligation and puncture-induced (CLP-induced) sepsis model of rats.

METHODS

Rats were separated into 8 groups: 1) sham, 2) sham+4 mg/kg oral salbutamol, 3) sham+6 min 2 mg/ml nebulized salbutamol, 4) CLP, 5) CLP+2 mg/kg oral salbutamol, 6) CLP+4 mg/kg oral salbutamol, 7) CLP+3 min 2 mg/ml nebulized salbutamol, 8) CLP+6 min 2 mg/ml nebulized salbutamol. Subsequently, sepsis was induced by CLP through 16 h.

RESULTS

CLP-induced sepsis increased serum cytokine levels (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6), increased tissue oxidative stress (8-Isoprosraglandin F2α), decreased antioxidant parameters (SOD, GSH), and increased lung injury by inflammatory cell accumulation.

CONCLUSION

This study showed for the first time that oral administration of salbutamol exerted protective effects on CLP-induced sepsis and related lung injury in rats. We conclude that despite the greater side effects of oral salbutamol, it should be considered for administration in oral form due to its systemic effectiveness during septic conditions in emergency settings.

Effects of intraocular rifampicin on retinal ganglion cell structure: a stereological and histopathological study

AIM

To determine the histopathological changes of rifampicin applied intravitreally on retinal ganglion cells by means of stereological and histopathological methods.

METHODS

For this study twenty-four New Zealand adult rabbits were divided into four groups (n=6 for each group). 50µg/0.1mL (group 1), 100µg/0.1mL (group 2), 150µg/0.1mL (group 3) and 200µg/0.1mL (group 4), rifampicin were injected into the vitreous of the right eyes of animals, their left eyes were used as control (group 5). After the 28(th) day of application, animals were anesthetised with xylazine (8mg/kg, IM) and then their eyes were enucleated immediately. Patterns were taken away and eyes were prepared for both stereological and electromicroscopic observation.

RESULTS

Depending on the high dose of rifampicin, some histopathological changes such as cytoplasmic dilatation and damaged membrane were observed on the electromicroscopic level. Using quantitative examination, which was done at the light microscopic level, it was shown that the number of neurons decreased linearly as rifampicin dose increased when compared with the control group.

CONCLUSION

Based on these findings, low-dose rifampicin (50µg/0.1mL) may be useful for treatment of the ocular diseases.

Effects of diabetes on cytokines and oxidative organ injury in a rat model of sepsis

We aimed to investigate how Diabetes Mellitus (DM) affects myeloperoxidase activity, antioxidant status, and lipid peroxidation using biochemical approaches in heart, liver, and lung and serum cytokine analyses, such as interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) in rat with sepsis induced by a cecal ligation and puncture-induced (CLP) sepsis. The rats were divided into four groups: control group, diabetic group, sepsis group, and diabetic+sepsis group. DM was induced in the male Wistar albino rats by administration of alloxan. Polymicrobial sepsis was induced by cecal ligation and two-hole puncture. After alloxan administration, all groups of rats were allowed to recover for 1 month. CLP model was applied after 1 month recovery to group 3 and 4. IL-6 and TNF-α, were measured. Effects of antioxidant defenses on the DM and/or sepsis process, the antioxidant levels superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione (GSH) were evaluated in heart, lung and liver tissues. The oxidant levels, such as lipid peroxidation (LPO) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) levels were also evaluated in tissues. We demonstrated DM to augment the level of oxidant and proinflammatory cytokines in lung, liver, and heart and also to exacerbate oxidative injury as assessed by increased LPO and MPO, and decreased GSH and SOD levels in a sepsis model. DM increased levels of proinflammatory cytokines while DM also resulted in significantly increased levels of proinflammatory cytokines following CLP. DM-increased plasma proinflammatory cytokines levels correlated positively with tissue oxidant levels, such as MPO and LPO levels in a rat abdominal sepsis model, based on CLP, which resulted in the exacerbation of oxidative organs injury.