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Mitochondrial biogenesis and destruction in skeletal muscle are coordinated by distinct signaling pathways that are influenced by internal and exogenous variables including, but not limited to, muscle phenotype, physical activity, dietary composition, or drug administration. Previously we found that long-term resveratrol administration (up to 480 mg/day) ameliorates the slow-to-fast phenotypic shift in soleus muscles and promotes the expression in slow myosin heavy chain in the mixed plantaris muscle of non-human primates consuming a high fat/sugar (HFS) diet. Here, we expand on these earlier findings by examining whether mitochondrial content and the markers that dictate their biogenesis and mitophagy/autophagy are similarly affected by HFS and/or influenced by resveratrol while consuming this diet (HFSR). Compared to controls (n = 9), there was a ~20-25% decrease in mitochondrial content in HFS (n = 8) muscles as reflected in the COX2- and CYTB-to-GAPDH ratios using PCR analysis, which was blunted by resveratrol in HFSR (n = 7) soleus and, to a lesser degree, in plantaris muscles. A ~1.5 and 3-fold increase in Rev-erb-α protein was detected in HFSR soleus and plantaris muscles compared to controls, respectively. Unlike in HFSR animals, HFS soleus and plantaris muscles exhibited a ~2-fold elevation in phosphor-AMPKα (Thr172). HFS soleus muscles had elevated phosphorylated-to-total TANK binding protein-1 (TBK1) ratio suggesting an enhancement in mito/autophagic events. Taken together, resveratrol appears to blunt mitochondrial losses with a high fat/sugar diet by tempering mito/autophagy rather than promoting mitochondrial biogenesis, suggesting that the quantity of daily resveratrol supplement ingested and/or its long-term consumption are important considerations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Depression is a severely debilitating psychiatric disorder that influences more than 15% of the population worldwide. It has been demonstrated that it is associated with a high risk of developing other diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, stroke, epilepsy, and cancer. The current study examines the possibility of chrysin and lycopene having an antidepressant effect in a rat model of depression induced by clonidine, as well as the mechanisms underlying this effect, including the role of neuroinflammation and oxidative stress. Rats were allotted into seven groups. The rats in group 1 served as a control. Group 2 received lycopene only. Group 3 was provided chrysin only. Group 4 was administered clonidine and served as the model. Group 5 was offered lycopene and clonidine. Group 6 was administered chrysin and clonidine. Group 7 was given FLX and clonidine and represented the standard. The experiment lasted two weeks, during which behavioral, biochemical, histopathological, and immunohistochemical measurements were performed. Lycopene and chrysin were used to correct the concentrations of noradrenaline and serotonin hippocampal tissue concentrations. These findings were also improved by immunohistochemical analysis of GFAP, VEGF, caspase3, and histopathological examinations, in which pretreatment of rats with lycopene and chrysin reversed all clonidine-induced alterations. The current research demonstrates that lycopene and chrysin have an auspicious antidepressant effect against clonidine that provoked behavioral hopelessness in rats. Manipulating oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis may partially represent the corrective mechanism for the neuroprotective actions against the depressive effect of clonidine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Olives (Olea europaea) have natural phytochemical compounds that are of great importance for their potential beneficially health effects. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of olive leaf powder (OLP) on insulin production and circulating adipokines in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Forty Wistar-albino male rats, weighing 200–225 g were divided into four groups (n = 10); group I: Normal healthy rats received balanced diet; group II: Diabetic control rats receiving balanced diet; group III: Diabetic rats receiving balanced diet + standard antidiabetic drugs (metformin, 600 mg/bw) and group four: Diabetic rats received diet supplemented with 2.0% OLP. The experiment was conducted for four weeks. Our results showed that the consumption of 2.0% OLP decreased serum glucose, triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels, whereas serum high density lipoprotein (HDL) level was increased. OLP supplementation also inhibited the atherogenic index [AI; log (TG/HDL-C) and atherogenic coefficient (AC)] levels relative to those of the untreated diabetic group. Moreover, OLP increased serum adiponectin concentration, and decreased serum leptin concentration. Liver and kidney functions were also attenuated by OLP. This finding also implies that OLP can play an important role in the treatment and delay of diabetic complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of 30 days of β-alanine supplementation on neurophysiological responses of animals exposed to an acute heat stress (HS) was examined. Animals were randomized to one of three groups; exposed to HS (120 min at 40–41 °C) and fed a normal diet (EXP; n = 12); EXP and supplemented with β-alanine (EXP + BA; n = 10); or not exposed (CTL; n = 10). Hippocampal (CA1, CA3 and DG) and hypothalamic (PVN) immunoreactive (ir) cell numbers of COX2, IBA-1, BDNF, NPY and HSP70 were analyzed. Three animals in EXP and one in EXP–BA did not survive the HS, however no significant difference (p = 0.146) was noted in survival rate in EXP + BA. The % change in rectal temperature was significantly lower (p = 0.04) in EXP + BA than EXP. Elevations (p's < 0.05) in COX-2, IBA-1 and HSP70 ir-cell numbers were noted in animals exposed to HS in all subregions. COX-2 ir-cell numbers were attenuated for EXP + BA in CA1 (p = 0.02) and PVN (p = 0.015) compared to EXP. No difference in COX-2 ir-cell numbers was noted between CTL and EXP + BA at CA1. BDNF-ir cell numbers in CA1, DG and PVN were reduced (p's < 0.05) during HS compared to CTL. No difference in BDNF-ir cell numbers was noted between EXP + BA and CTL in CA3 and PVN. NPY-ir density was reduced in exposed animals in all subregions, but NPY-ir density for EXP-BA was greater than EXP in CA3 (p < 0.001) and PVN (p = 0.04). β-Alanine supplementation attenuated the thermoregulatory and inflammatory responses and maintained neurotrophin and neuropeptide levels during acute HS. Further research is necessary to determine whether β-alanine supplementation can increase survival rate during a heat stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute renal failure (ARF) has been documented as a life-threatening disease with high morbidity and mortality. We investigated the protective effect of Luteolin against ARF. In this study, forty-male Wistar albino rats were randomly divided into four groups (n = 10). Group A received normal saline. Group B received glycerol (10 ml/kg BW, 50% v/v in sterile saline, i.m.). Groups C and D were pretreated with Luteolin 100 and 200 mg/kg for 7 days, and thereafter administered Glycerol (10 ml/kg BW, 50% v/v in sterile saline, i.m.). Administration of glycerol significantly increased systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure and mean arterial pressure. Renal protein carbonyl and xanthine oxidase increased significantly while significant reduction in the activity of renal glutathione peroxidase, glutathione S-transferase and glutathione reductase was observed in the glycerol intoxicated rats. Furthermore, administration of glycerol led to significant increases in serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen together with reduction in nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability. Immunohistochemistry revealed that glycerol intoxication enhanced expressions of kidney injury molecule 1, nuclear factor kappa beta and cardiac troponin (CTnI). However, Luteolin pretreatment normalized blood pressure, reduced markers of oxidative stress, renal damage, and improved NO bioavailability. Luteolin also downregulated the expressions of kidney injury molecule 1, nuclear factor kappa beta and cardiac troponin. Together, Luteolin might open a novel therapeutic window for the treatment of acute renal failure and cardiac complication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Manilkara hexandra (Roxb; Family:sapotaceae) is reported to exert preventive effect in several experimental ulcer models. However, there is no report of M. hexandra on gastric ulcer healing property. Thus, the present study was designed to evaluate the gastric ulcer healing activity of methanolic stem bark extract of M. hexandra (MH) and to derive a plausible molecular level of mechanism of action. MH was subjected to several phytochemical screening tests and standardized to quercetin by HPTLC. In the first pharmacological experiment, the standardized MH (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg) was carried out for ulcer healing activity against acetic acid (AA)-induced gastric ulcer in male rats. MH (100 and 200 mg/kg) ameliorated AA-induced rat gastric lesions. Further, MH (100 and 200 mg/kg) attenuated AA-induced changes in the levels of lipid peroxidation (LPO), reduced glutathione (GSH), oxidized glutathione (GSSG) and ratio of GSH/GSSG and activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and glutathione reductase (GR) enzymes, and level of hame oxygenase-1 (HO-1) in stomach tissue. In the subsequent set of experiment, trigonelline (30 mg/kg; p.o.), a potent Nrf2 antagonist, significantly abrogated the gastric ulcer healing activity of MH (100 mg/kg) in AA challenged animals. Further, trigonelline attenuated the effects of MH (100 mg/kg) on the levels of LPO, GSH, GSSG and ratio of GSH/GSSG and activity of SOD, CAT, GPx and GR enzymes, and level of HO-1 in AA challenged rodents. These observations implicate the fact that MH could be a better therapeutic alternative in the management of gastric ulcer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was designed to investigate the changes in rat liver tissue after administration of acrylamide (ACR) and ellagic acid (EA). The latter compound was applied for its strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In the present study, 35 male Wistar rats were randomly divided into five equal groups. These groups were normal saline (NS), ACR (20 mg/kg), ACR + EA (10 and 30 mg/kg EA), and EA (30 mg/kg). At the end of the experiment, the rats were decapitated. Biochemical and histopathological studies were conducted on liver and serum samples. ACR administration significantly decreased hepatic GSH level, SOD, GPx, and CAT activity when compared to the NS group. Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), nitric oxide (NO), protein carbonyl (PC), malondialdehyde (MDA), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), and interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β) levels increased as a result of ACR administration. Administration of EA (more potently at a dose of 30 mg/kg) resulted in a significant reversal of biochemical, inflammatory, and hepatic markers in ACR-intoxicated rats. These biochemical and inflammatory disturbances were supported by histopathological observations of the liver. Our results indicate that EA might be useful for the treatment of the hepatotoxicity induced by ACR via ameliorative effects on biochemical, oxidative stress, and inflammatory indices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chrysophyllum albidum peel ethanol extract (CAPEE) was investigated for its antioxidant and hypolipidemic effects in rats. Dried peel was extracted in 70% ethanol and tested for phenolic content and in vitro antioxidant properties. Acute toxicity effect of CAPEE was tested at dose level of 2,000 mg/kg. The antioxidant and hypolipidemic effects in serum and hepatic tissues were evaluated in normal and triton-X-100-injected rats following 14 days of repeated treatment with CAPEE (50 and 200 mg/kg). Total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) of CAPEE were 49.49 ± 2.48 mg GAE/g of sample and 14.71 ± 0.90 mg RE/g sample, respectively. The extract scavenged DPPH radical in a concentration-dependent manner with an IC50 of 63.1 ± 0.5 µg/mL. CAPEE (2,000 mg/kg) showed no sign of toxicity in mice. CAPEE (50 and 200 mg/kg) did not alter lipid profile in normal rats but ameliorated triton-X-100-induced increases in triglycerides and cholesterol and decrease in high-density lipoprotein (HDL). CAPEE showed hepatoprotective as well as antioxidant activity in serum and liver of normal and hyperlipidemic rats. The results revealed that Chrysophyllum albidum fruit peel ethanol extract possesses antioxidants and hypolipidemic properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phyllanthus muellarianus (Kuntze) Exell. (Euphorbiacea) leaves are widely used in the treatment of neurological disorders in Nigeria. We investigated the protective effect of aqueous leaf extract of Phyllanthus muellarianus on ciprofloxacin neurotoxicity in male rats. Control rats (Group A) received distilled water, Groups C–E According to the Animal grouping and treatment section, Group B did not receive P. muellarianus> rats were administered 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg body weight P. muellarianus, respectively, and Group F rats received 200 mg/kg body weight valproate orally for 7 days. In addition, groups B–F rats were orally administered ciprofloxacin for 7 days. Motor coordination and motor function were assessed using narrow beam and landing foot splay distance. The levels of neurotransmitter and oxidative stress biomarkers were also determined. Aqueous leaf extract of P. muellarianus significantly attenuated ciprofloxacin-mediated increases in narrow beam, landing foot splay distance, and gait scores. Ciprofloxacin-mediated depletion of acetylcholine and dopamine in the brains of rats was significantly annulled by P. muellarianus. Furthermore, the extract significantly reversed ciprofloxacin-mediated increases in acetylcholinesterase, monoamine oxidase A, and monoamine oxidase B by 73.13%, 71.52%, and 86.54%, respectively. The altered biomarkers of oxidative stress were significantly reversed by P. muellarianus. Overall, the results of this study show that P. muellarianus reversed ciprofloxacin-induced neurotoxicity by restoring ciprofloxacin-mediated alterations in acetylcholine, dopamine, acetylcholinesterase, monoaminergic enzymes, and oxidative stress biomarkers in the brains of rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous observational studies have suggested that β-cryptoxanthin, a micronutrient present in yellow and orange fruit and vegetables, may help delay the onset of menopause. Given the widespread social trend of delaying pregnancy, the possibility that β-cryptoxanthin supplementation may delay age-related loss of fertility and onset of menopause is of significant interest. In a parallel study, either saline or β-cryptoxanthin (5 µg/kg rat/day) was delivered to Wistar albino rats via an osmotic pump from 4 to 7 months of age. All control and β-cryptoxanthin-treated dams were fertile at 7 months of age, with no differences in litter size, sex ratio, or pup viability at the time of mating at 7, 9, 11, and 15 months of age (p ≥.05 for all). As expected, over time there was a pronounced decrease in litter size and serum anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), but with no significant differences between the two groups at any time point. Overall, there was a positive correlation between litter size and AMH (r = 0.324, p =.012), confirming a link between this serum marker of ovarian reserve status and fertility potential. At 16 months, bilateral oophorectomies were performed at necropsy, before conducting follicle density assessments of ovarian reserve. The total number and stage of follicle development were similar between the β-cryptoxanthin and control groups (13.8 ± 3.2 cf 10.2 ± 4.8, respectively, p >.05). β-cryptoxanthin supplementation for 3 months early in reproductive life was not effective in delaying ovarian senescence or enhancing fertility in rats later in life, contrary to the association suggested by observational studies in humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic and prophylactic potential of Coriandrum sativum extract in isoproterenol-induced heart failure (HF) in Wistar rats. Two weeks after the isoproterenol administration, rats developed severe impairment in left ventricular functions, reduced baroreflex sensitivity, and significant alteration in hemodynamic parameters and lipid profile. HF rats also exhibited enhanced lipid peroxidation and increased expression of endothelin receptors (ETA and ETB). Therapeutic and prophylactic treatment with C. sativum extract significantly (p <.05) improved the left ventricular functions and hemodynamic parameters and increased baroreflex sensitivity. It also inhibited lipid peroxidation, improved lipid profile, and downregulated the expression of endothelin receptors. Simvastatin treatment showed a similar cardioprotective effect. Our results suggest that C. sativum extract provides significant protection from heart failure possibly due to its ability to improve left ventricular functions and baroreflex sensitivity, attenuate lipid peroxidation, and modulate the expression of endothelin receptors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to evaluate the protective effect of fresh fruit juice of Opuntia dillenii Haw. (FJOD) on acetic acid–induced ulcerative colitis in rats. Fresh FJOD (2.5 and 5 ml/kg) and sulfasalazine (100 mg/kg) were given orally for seven consecutive days prior to colitis induction on the eighth day by intrarectal acetic acid (4% v/v) administration. Macroscopic, clinical activity scoring, biochemical, and histopathological examinations of colon were used to assess colonic damage. FJOD and sulfasalazine treatment significantly attenuated the macroscopic damage, clinical activity score, and wet weight of the colon when compared to disease control and further showed significantly reduced levels of myeloperoxidase, malondialdehyde, and serum lactate dehydrogenase and enhanced colonic levels of reduced glutathione. The protective effect of FJOD may be attributed to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities in ulcerative colitis. The observed effects may be due to the presence of phenolics, flavonoids, and betalains in the fruit juice of Opuntia dillenii. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

First-line antituberculosis drugs, namely, isoniazid (INH), rifampicin (RIF), and pyrazinamide (PZA), contribute to diverse pathological complications. Testicular toxicity is one such complication. Berberis aristata DC is an herb with potentially curative characteristics. The aim of this study was to test whether extract of Berberis aristata DC (Berberidaceae) has curing potential against testicular toxicity. Characterization of extract was done using ultra-performance liquid chromatography along with acute toxicity testing. Antioxidant activity of extract was checked by DPPH inhibition assay and H2O2 scavenging assay. Rats were dosed once daily for 28 days in groups: control group (saline), toxicant group (30.85 mg/kg body weight INH + 61.7 mg/kg body weight RIF + 132.65 mg/kg body weight PZA), treatment groups (TB drugs + 150/300 mg/kg body weight extract) and standard group (TB drugs +100 mg/kg body weight silymarin). Spectrophotometric evaluations of lipid peroxidation (LPO), reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), and catalase (CAT) content in testes were done using standard protocols. DNA fragmentation and histopathological studies were performed to check the damage at the cellular level. Acute toxicity studies revealed LD50 > 5 g/Kg body weight of B. aristata extract. IC50 for DPPH free-radical scavenging activity and H2O2 scavenging assay were 44.78 µg/mL and 85.28 µg/mL, respectively. Results revealed significant increase in thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, decrease in glutathione and different antioxidants levels, DNA fragmentation pattern, and changes in histology in toxicant group. All the changes were absent in high-dose (300 mg/kg body weight) extract treatment group. This work proved that B. aristata extract has protective efficacy against testicular damage caused by anti-TB drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crab shell (CS), which contains antioxidant compounds, has been used as a promising nutritional and medical compound in traditional medicine. Oxidative stress plays a critical role in the development of diabetes. This study aims to investigate the effects of CS extract (CSE) on sperm parameters, antioxidant status, and histopathology changes of testes in diabetic rats. In this experimental study, 40 Wistar male rats were investigated in five groups (n = 8/group): diabetic rats treated with different CS concentrations (i.e., 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg), diabetic group, and nondiabetic control. To induce diabetes, a single dose (60 mg/kg) of streptozotocin (STZ) was injected intraperitoneally; three days later, treatment with CSE was begun and conducted for 14 days. The fasting blood glucose, testes weight, and viability, number, and motility of sperm were assessed. In addition, the levels of ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and nitric oxide (NO) were estimated in the testes. Testes were examined using histological analysis. The results of this study revealed that sperm number, motility, and serum testosterone levels of CSE-treated diabetic rats increased significantly (p =.000) compared with the untreated diabetic group in a dose-depended manner while the number of immotile sperm decreased significantly (p =.017). CS also reduced the testicular level of nitric oxide and fasting blood glucose; however, it led to significant growth in the FRAP levels of testes (p =.002). Our results suggest that CSE improves sperm parameters and protects the testicular tissue against the oxidative stress damage induced by diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The endocrine-disrupting chemical 4-tert-octylphenol (OP) can mimic estrogen and testosterone hormones and threaten health; fertaric acid (FA) is a hydroxycinnamic acid found in grapefruit. This study aimed to investigate whether FA has a protective effect on 4-tert-octylphenol-related hepatotoxicity. Thirty male albino rats were divided into 5 equal groups of 6 rats each as follows: control group—administrated orally with 1 ml saline 3 days/week for 4 weeks; corn oil group—administrated orally with 1 ml corn oil 3 days/week for 4 weeks; FA-treated group—administrated orally with FA (45 mg /kg body weight) dissolved in saline 3 days/week for 4 weeks; OP-treated group—administrated orally with OP (40 mg /kg body weight) dissolved in corn oil 3 days/week for 4 weeks; FA + OP-treated group—administrated orally with FA (45 mg /kg body weight) dissolved in saline 3 days/week for 4 weeks then administrated orally with OP (40 mg/kg body weight) dissolved in corn oil 3 days/week for another 4 weeks. The results obtained showed that OP-exposed rats had significant increase in serum aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, γ-glutamyl transferase, lactate dehydrogenase, bilirubin, serum and liver tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β and malondialdehyde, serum interleukin-6 and interleukin-10 and significant decrease in serum alkaline phosphatase, acid phosphatase, serum and liver superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase. OP caused an inhibitory action on the gene expression of liver proteins. Rats treated with FA before OP exposure had near-normal values. In addition, FA prevented the degradation of liver deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), and DNA reformation occurred. In conclusion, FA protects from dangerous OP-related hepatic effects, and these results were supported by molecular and histological investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Radiation protection research receives intense focus due to its significant impact on human health. The present study was undertaken to investigate the protective effect of pretreatment with tomato seed oil (TSO) against gamma radiation-induced damage in rats. Male Wistar rats were divided into four groups: (1) untreated control; (2) TSO-supplemented; (3) gamma-irradiated; (4) TSO-pretreated and gamma-irradiated. Acute exposure of animals to a single gamma radiation dose (6 Gy) induced oxidative stress in major body organs, altered serum lipid homeostasis, significantly increased serum testosterone and sorbitol dehydrogenase levels, and elicited a systemic inflammation as manifested by the induction of serum vascular cell adhesion molecule-1. Oral pretreatment with TSO (1 ml/kg; 3 times/week for 8 weeks) before exposure to gamma radiation protected rats against ionizing radiation-induced oxidative stress, restored lipid homeostasis, and suppressed systemic inflammation. Histological findings of target tissues verified biochemical data. The radioprotective ability of TSO was attributed to its content of phytosterols, policosanol, and antioxidants, including lycopene, β-carotene, lutein, and tocopherols. TSO is considered a promising radioprotective agent that can be effectively used to protect the body from the damaging effects of harmful radiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sandpaper leaf (Ficus exasperata) is commonly used in folk medicine to manage high blood pressure. However, different methods such as soaking, boiling, hand maceration, and blending have been employed for preparing sandpaper leaf extracts for hypertensive patients. This study sought to investigate and compare the influence of different processing methods on the antihypertensive properties of sandpaper leaf as well as its effect on Fe2+ and sodium nitroprusside- (SNP-) induced lipid peroxidation in rat heart in vitro. Sandpaper leaf extracts were prepared using different methods and the resulting solutions were freeze-dried. Effect of the extracts on angiotensin-1-converting enzymes (ACE) and arginase activity was assessed. Thereafter, antioxidant activities of the extracts were determined using in vitro antioxidant assays, and the total phenolic content and flavonoid content of the extracts were determined. The results revealed that sandpaper leaf extracts from different processing methods inhibited ACE and arginase activity in a dose-dependent manner. However, the soaking method had significantly (p <.05) higher inhibitory effect on angiotensin converting (ACE) and arginase activity than hand maceration, boiling, and blending methods. Sandpaper leaf extracts also exhibited high antioxidant activities as typified by their iron-chelating ability, 2, 2′-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS) radical-scavenging and iron-chelating ability as well as inhibition of Fe2+- and SNP-induced lipid peroxidation in rat heart in vitro. Processing methods alter the inhibitory effect of sandpaper leaf extracts on ACE and arginase activities. Thus, inhibition of ACE and arginase coupled with antioxidant properties could offer protective mechanisms against hypertension. However, the soaking method appears to be the most promising among methods considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nauclea latifolia is used in traditional medicine for the treatment of male reproductive diseases. Despite its vast uses, its effects on the male reproductive system have not been scientifically proven. This study aimed to investigate the effects of Nauclea latifolia root decoction on sexual behavior and functions in male rabbits. Twenty-four male rabbits were divided into four groups: The first group received daily distilled water orally. The second, third, and fourth groups were orally treated with 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg body weight of Nuclea latifolia root, respectively. Sexual behavior parameters were carried out on weeks 1, 2, and 3 of the study. Testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH) were measured from the serum, while the testes tissue samples were used for antioxidant and histopathological examinations. Treatment with 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight resulted in significantly (p <.05) increased frequencies of mounting and intromission. In addition, the ejaculation latency was significantly prolonged (p <.05). The latencies of mounting and intromission were significantly decreased (p <.05), whereas ejaculation frequency increased. Serum testosterone, FSH, and LH increased significantly (p <.05) after treatment with Nuclea latifolia. There was an increase in epididymal sperm counts at 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight doses compared to the control. The extract also increased sperm motility and viability and improved testicular oxidative status. Histological examination revealed an increase in germinal layer thickness. The present study suggests that treatment with N. latifolia improves male sexual function and fertility and protects the testes from oxidative damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pterocarpus marsupium (Roxb.) (family Fabaceae) is widely used as a traditional medicine to treat various diseases, including diabetes. However, the molecular mechanism of Pterocarpus marsupium has not been investigated. Two fractions (2.5% and 5%) of extract from the medicinal plant Pterocarpus marsupium (PME) were administered in a dose-dependent manner in rats with streptozotocin-induced (45 mg/kg body weight) type 2 diabetes. Each fraction of PME was administered intragastrically at a dose of 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg body weight for 45 days. The effective dose 200 mg/kg body weight of 5% fraction was more pronounced in reducing the levels of blood glucose (95.65 mg/dL) and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) (0.41 mg/g Hb) and increasing the plasma insulin (16.20 µU/mL) level. The altered activities of the key enzymes of lipid metabolism along with the lipid profile in diabetic rats were significantly reverted to near normal levels by the administration of PME 5% 200 mg/kg body weight fraction. PME (200 mg/kg body weight) has the ability to reduce oxidative stress and inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) Interleukin-6 (IL-6) messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA), as well as protein expression and apoptotic marker, such as caspase-3 enzyme, in diabetic hepatic tissue. Biochemical findings were also supported by histological studies, such as improvement in pancreas and liver. Pterocarpus marsupium could effectively reduce the inflammation and hyperglycemic condition in diabetic rats; hence, it could be a useful tool in the management of diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intake of thermally oxidized palm oil leads to cytotoxicity and alteration of the potassium ion channel function. This study investigated the effects of fresh and thermally oxidized palm oil diets on blood pressure and potassium ion channel function in blood pressure regulation. Male Wistar rats were randomly divided into three groups of eight rats. Control group received normal feed; fresh palm oil (FPO) and thermally oxidized palm oil (TPO) groups were fed a diet mixed with 15% (weight/weight) fresh palm oil and five times heated palm oil, respectively, for 16 weeks. Blood pressure was measured; blood samples, hearts, and aortas were collected for biochemical and histological analyses. Thermally oxidized palm oil significantly elevated basal mean arterial pressure (MAP). Glibenclamide (10−5 mmol/L) and tetraethylammonium (TEA; 10−3 mmol/L) significantly raised blood pressure in TPO compared with FPO and control groups. Levcromakalim (10−6 mmol/L) significantly (p <.01) reduced MAP by 32.0% in FPO and by 5.4% in TPO. NS1619 (10 mmol/L) significantly (p <.01) decreased MAP by 19.5% in FPO and by 8% in TPO. The TPO significantly (p < 0.01) increased the tissue levels of peroxide, total cholesterol, triglyceride, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol while catalase and superoxide dismutase activities were significantly (p <.01) decreased compared with control and FPO groups. Histological alterations were prominent in aortas and hearts of rats in the TPO group. These results suggest that prolonged consumption of repeatedly heated palm oil increases MAP probably due to the attenuation of adenosine triphosphate-sensitive potassium (KATP) and large-conductance calcium-dependent potassium (BKCa) channels, tissue peroxidation, and altered histological structures of the heart and blood vessels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hypolipidemic effect of red gram prebiotics of raffinose family oligosaccharides was studied in Wistar National Institute of Nutrition male rat strain. The study consisted of 36 rats randomly divided into three groups of 12 rats each. For 16 weeks, Group I was fed with the control diet; Group II was fed with a diet containing 3% standard raffinose as the reference group; Group III received the diet containing 3% red gram prebiotics. The results showed that the gain in body weight was low in the red gram prebiotics-supplemented group followed by the control group; highest increase of body weight was seen in the raffinose standard-fed group. Serum glucose levels of the red gram prebiotic-fed group decreased 14.92% compared to the control group and increased 2.07% compared to the reference group. The decrease in serum triglycerides (TG) levels of the red gram prebiotic-fed groups was 32.76% compared to the control group and 33.64% compared to the reference group. Decrease in the serum TC of the red gram-fed animals was 18.51% and 4.63% compared to the control group and the reference group, respectively. Increase in the level of serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) in the red gram-fed animals was 18.51% compared to the control group and 4.63% compared to the reference group. The present study can be a proof for the use of prebiotics as a preventive measure for overweight and obesity in humans, and legume prebiotics can be explored as a novel prebiotic product in the consumer market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research findings that suggest beneficial health effects of dietary supplementation with virgin coconut oil (VCO) are limited in the published literature. This study investigated the in vivo effects of a 5-week VCO-supplemented diet on lipid profile, hepatic antioxidant status, hepatorenal function, and cardiovascular risk indices in normal rats. Rats were randomly divided into 3 groups: 1 control and 2 treatment groups (10% and 15% VCO-supplemented diets) for 5 weeks. Serum and homogenate samples were used to analyze lipid profile, hepatorenal function markers, hepatic activities of antioxidant enzymes, and malondialdehyde level. Lipid profile of animals fed VCO diets showed significant reduction in total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels; high-density lipoprotein (HDL) level increased significantly (p <.05) compared to control; and there were beneficial effects on cardiovascular risk indices. The level of malondialdehyde (MDA), a lipid peroxidation marker, remarkably reduced and activities of hepatic antioxidant enzymes—superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx)—were markedly increased in VCO diet–fed rats. The VCO diet significantly modulated creatinine, sodium (Na+), potassium (K+), chloride (Cl−), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) compared to control. The findings suggest a beneficial effect of VCO on lipid profile, renal status, hepatic antioxidant defense system, and cardiovascular risk indices in rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parquetina nigrescens is commonly used to treat diseases in humans and animals in developing countries, including Nigeria. This study evaluates the effects of its polyphenol-rich fraction (prf) on dichlorvos-induced cardio- and renal toxicity. There were several factors assessed during this study, including cardiac and renal markers, serum myeloperoxidase and xanthine oxidase, and electrocardiograph (ECG) changes. The changes in electrocardiograph (ECG) were recorded. Immunohistochemistry of cardiac and renal p38 and nitrotyrosine was determined. Dichlorvos exposure caused a significant decrease in L-glutathione (reduced glutathione) and other antioxidant enzymes with increases in malondialdehyde, myeloperoxidase, advanced oxidation protein products, and protein carbonyl levels. It also brought about alterations in microanatomy of the heart and kidneys accompanied by increases in serum creatinine and urea levels. Exposure to dichlorvos induced prolonged QRS interval and shortened QT durations in rats. Immunohistochemistry revealed lower expressions of cardiac nitrotyrosine and renal p38 (mitogen-activated protein kinase; MAPK) in rats treated with prf of P. nigrescens. Combining all, prf of P. nigrescens demonstrated antioxidant as well as protective properties in the heart and kidneys of rats exposed to dichlorvos. It ameliorated dichlorvos-induced cardio- and nephrotoxicity giving credence to its use in ethnomedicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sodium arsenite (NaAsO2) is one of the major environmental toxicants with severe toxicological consequences in some developing and developed countries. Rats in Group A received normal saline. Genotoxicity and apoptosis were induced by single intraperitoneal injection of 10 mg/kg sodium arsenite to rats in Groups B–F. Rats in Groups C and D had earlier been pretreated with Azadirachta indica (100 and 200 mg/kg) or E and F with vitamin E (50 and 100 mg/kg), respectively. Markers of oxidative stress, inflammation, hepatic damage, genotoxicity, and apoptosis were assessed. Pretreatment of rats with either Azadirachta indica or vitamin E led to a significant (p <.05) increase in the activities of glutathione-S-transferase (GST), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and reduced glutathione (GSH) in the liver compared to the group that received NaAsO2 alone. Markers of oxidative stress and inflammation, malondialdehyde (MDA), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) generation, nitric oxide (NO), and myeloperoxidase (MPO), were significantly (p <.05) lowered in rats pretreated with Azadirachta indica or vitamin E. The frequency of micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes (MNPCEs) and expression of caspase-3 were significantly (p <.05) reduced in rats pretreated with either Azadirachta indica or vitamin E compared to rats intoxicated with arsenite. Histopathology of the liver showed areas of infiltration of inflammatory cells with deaths of numerous hepatocytes in NaAsO2-intoxicated rats, and these were reversed by Azadirachta indica. Together, we report for the first time the genoprotective and antiapoptotic effect of Azadirachta indica by a significant reduction in the frequency of micronuclei-induced apoptosis and oxidative stress by arsenic intoxication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyphenolic compounds have been suggested to be involved in the preservation of neural function via the production of neurotrophic factors in the brain. The nonedible joint part of lotus root (a rhizome of Nelumbo nucifera) has been reported to contain large amounts of polyphenolic compounds and, therefore, is expected to improve neural function by stimulating the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in glial cells. The effect of the aqueous extract prepared fromthe joint part of lotus root on BDNF gene expression was examined in C6 glioma cells as an in vitro model. This extractwas shown to increase BDNF messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) levels to the elevation of HO-1 mRNAlevels in the glioma cells, but failed to cause the elevation of BDNF mRNA levels in the cells pretreated with a HO-1 antisense oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN) or an HO-1 enzyme inhibitor zinc protoporphyrin (ZnPP). These findings strongly suggest that the aqueous extract prepared from the nonedible joint part of lotus root might be able to stimulate BDNF gene expression by enhancing HO-1 activity in the glioma cells, proposing the possibility that the joint part of lotus root might potentially improve neural function through the stimulation of BDNF production in glial cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

4-tert-octylphenol (OP) is an endocrine-disrupting chemical that causes harmful effects to human health. Chlorogenic acid is the major dietary polyphenol present in various foods and beverages. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the protective role of chlorogenic acid in anemia and mineral disturbance occurring in OP toxicity in rats. Thirty-two male albino rats were divided into four equal groups (8 rats/group) as follows. The first (control) group was treated daily with an oral dose of 1 ml saline for two weeks. The second group was treated daily with an oral dose of 60 mg chlorogenic acid/kg body weight for two weeks. The third and fourth groups received daily intraperitoneal (ip) injections with 100 mg OP/kg body weight for two weeks; the fourth group was treated daily with an oral dose of 60 mg chlorogenic acid/kg body weight for three weeks starting one week before OP injections. The results revealed that OP induced significant decreases in hemoglobin, hematocrit, red blood cells, mean cell volume, mean cell hemoglobin, mean cell hemoglobin concentration, platelet count, white blood cells, lymphocyte and neutrophil percent, transferrin receptor, serum calcium, phosphorous, sodium, potassium, chloride, glutathione-S-transferase, glutathione peroxidase, catalase, glutathione reductase, and superoxide dismutase. Moreover, significant increases in serum hepcidin, ferritin, transferrin, erythropoietin, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, urea, creatinine, selenium, zinc, manganese, copper, iron, malondialdehyde, and protein carbonyl levels were found in OP groups. OP exposure also induced cell apoptosis. Chlorogenic acid pretreatment in OP-treated groups restored all the mentioned parameters to approach the normal values. In conclusion, chlorogenic acid protects from anemia and mineral disturbances in 4-tert-octylphenol toxicity by ameliorating oxidative stress and apoptosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considering the side effects of current anti-inflammatory drugs, novel therapeutic agents are desired. We have succeeded in separating flavonoid-rich fractions with anti-inflammatory effect from fenugreek seeds (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.). In this work, we aimed to carry out further fractionation to find active anti-inflammatory subfractions. Trigonelline content of the plant was determined by spectrophotometric method. Fenugreek seeds were extracted consecutively with petroleum ether, acidified chloroform (ACC), alkaline chloroform (AKC), methanol, and water. ACC fraction, which had exhibited the highest anti-inflammatory effect, was further fractionated using column chromatography. Obtained subfractions were evaluated using carrageenaninduced paw edema (CIPE) method. Animals were pretreated by test compounds, and after 30minutes edemawas induced by subcutaneous injection of 100 µl of 1% w/v carrageenan into the right paw of animals. Volume difference of both paws was measured at different times after carrageenan injection. The concentration of trigonellinewas determined as 16.2%. ACC fraction inhibited paw edema significantly in comparison to control (p < .05). Four subfractions (dry weight percentage basis)were selected for pharmacological study. F3 subfraction exhibited the greatest inhibition at 15 mg/kg (p<.001). ACC fraction and F4 significantly inhibited paw edema at doses of 5, 10, and 15 mg/kg (p < .001). Phytochemical studies indicated the presence of flavonoids in ACC and active subfractions. Further separation can lead to finding active components from active subfractions, which probably belong to flavonoid phytochemicals. Considering the gastroprotective effect of fenugreek, we hope the separated fractions also would be free of gastrointestinal side effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the inhibitory effects of phenolic-rich extracts from Clerodendrum volubile leaves on cholinergic [acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE)] and monoaminergic [monoamine oxidase (MAO)] enzymes' activities and pro-oxidants [Fe2+ and quinolinic acid-(QA)] induced lipid peroxidation in rats brain homogenates in vitro. Free phenolic extracts (FPE) and bound phenolic extracts (BPE) were obtained via solvent extraction, and the total phenol and flavonoid contents were evaluated. The phenolic constituents of the extracts were also determined using high performance liquid chromatography coupled with diode array detector (HPLC-DAD). Our findings revealed that FPE had higher AChE (2.06 μg/mL), BChE (2.79 μg/mL), and MAO (2.81 μg/mL) inhibitory effects than BPE [AChE, 2.80 μg/mL; BChE, 3.40 μg/mL; MAO, 3.39 μg/mL]. Furthermore, FPE also had significantly (P < 0.05) higher inhibitory effects on Fe2+ and QA-induced lipid peroxidation compared to BPE. FPE (162.61 mg GAE/g) had higher total phenol content than BPE. However, BPE (18.65 mg QE/g) had significantly higher total flavonoid content than FPE (13.32 mg QE/g). Phenolic acids (such as gallic acid, catechin, chlorogenic, caffeic, ellagic, p-Coumaric acids) and flavonoids (catechins, rutin and quercetin) were present in both extracts. This study revealed that the enzymes' inhibitory activities and antioxidant potentials of phenolic-rich extracts from C. volubile could be part of the mechanism of actions behind its use for memory/cognitive function as obtained in folklore. However, FPE exhibited significantly higher enzymes, inhibitory and antioxidant potentials than BPE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The vulnerability to oxidative stress and cognitive decline continue to increase during both normal and pathological aging. Dietary changes and sedentary life style resulting in mid-life obesity and type 2 diabetes, if left uncorrected, further add to the risk of cognitive decline and Alzheimer disease (AD) in the later stages of life. Certain antioxidant agents such as dietary polyphenols, taken in adequate quantities, have been suggested to improve the cognitive processes. In this study, we examined the effect of oral administration of dark chocolate (DC) containing 70% cocoa solids and 4% total polyphenol content for three months at a dose of 500 mg/Kg body weight per day to 17-month-old monosodium glutamate treated obese Sprague–Dawley rats, earlier characterized as a nontransgenic AD (NTAD) rat model after reversal of obesity, diabetes, and consequent cognitive impairments. The results demonstrated that DC reduced the hyperglycemia, inhibited the cholinesterase activity in the hippocampal tissue homogenates, and improved the cognitive performance in spatial memory related Barnes maze task. Histological studies revealed an increase in cell volume in the DC treated rats in the CA3 region of the hippocampus. These findings demonstrated the benefits of DC in enhancing cognitive function and cholinergic activity in the hippocampus of the aged NTAD rats while correcting their metabolic disturbances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective was to determine safety and efficacy of health supplements "Beyond Tangy Tangerine," a multivitamin/mineral complex and combination of multivitamin/mineral complex, "Osteofx," a bone healthy supplement and "Ultimate Essential Fatty Acids" in Sprague Dawley rats consuming high-fat diets. Initially a pilot study was conducted which confirmed palatability and acceptability of supplements. In a second study, rats (n = 15/group) were randomized to Control; Multivitamin/mineral complex (2 g/kg BW) or Combination (2 g Multivitamin/mineral complex, 1.5 g Bone healthy supplement and 0.34 g Essential fatty acids/kg BW). No differences were observed in BW change, feed intake, organ weights or bone mineral composition with supplementations compared to control. Multivitamin/mineral complex supplementation decreased abdominal white adipose tissue weights (WAT) (p =.005), total (p =.033) and fat mass (p =.040), plasma IL-6 (p =.016) and ALKP (p =.038) and elevated plasma calcium (p <.001), phosphorus (p =.038), total protein (p =.002), albumin (p =.014) and globulin (p =.018), compared to control. Similarly, combination supplementation reduced WAT (p <.001), total (p =.023) and fat mass (p =.045), plasma triglycerides (p =.018), IL-6 (p =.002) and ALKP (p <.001) with increases in plasma calcium (p =.031), phosphorus (p <.001) compared to control. Results indicate that consuming either supplement can be considered safe and improves overall health by reducing inflammation, abdominal fat mass and plasma triglycerides, as well as promote bone health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An evidence-based systematic review of yin yang huo (Epimedium spp.) by the Natural Standard Research Collaboration consolidates the safety and efficacy data available in the scientific literature using a validated, reproducible grading rationale. This article includes written and statistical analysis of clinical trials, plus a compilation of expert opinion, folkloric precedent, history, pharmacology, kinetics/dynamics, interactions, adverse effects, toxicology, and dosing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alcohol abuse is recognized as the most common cause for the development of various abnormalities including liver disease. Excessive free radicals are generated during the metabolism of ethanol. The ingestion of alcohol along with polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) aggravates the production of free radicals and enhances the oxidative stress. Medicinal plants contain active phytocomponents, which are the principal healthcare resources. We aimed to analyze the effect of wheatgrass extract on alcohol and thermally oxidized PUFA (ΔPUFA) induced oxidative stress in male albino Wistar rats. The levels of marker enzymes gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), lipid peroxidative markers; thiobarbutric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and lipid hydroperoxides (LH), the levels of enzymatic (catalase [CAT], superoxide dismutase [SOD], glutathione peroxidase [GPx]) and nonenzymatic (reduced glutathione [GSH], vitamin E, vitamin C) antioxidants were analyzed in liver to evaluate the effects of wheatgrass. The levels of TBARS and LH were significantly ( p ≤ .05) increased in alcohol + ΔPUFA group, which were found to be reduced on treatment with wheatgrass. The levels of both enzymatic and nonenzymatic antioxidants were significantly ( p ≤ .05) decreased in alcohol + ΔPUFA group, which were found to be restored on treatment with wheatgrass. From the results obtained, we conclude that wheatgrass protects the liver against alcohol and ΔPUFA induced oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We reported that Jamaican bitter yam (Dioscorea polygonoides) has antilipemic potential in rats; however there is limited data on the toxicological profile of the yam. We therefore investigated the effects of bitter yam consumption for 6 or 12 weeks on renal and hepatic function in rats fed a high (4%) cholesterol diet. Methods: Twenty four rats were divided into six groups ( n = 4); three of which were used for each investigation (6 or 12 weeks). One group was administered 4% cholesterol diet, while the yam group had the cholesterol diet supplemented with 5% bitter yam. The control group was fed standard rat chow. Liver and kidney function tests were performed on serum, liver and kidney. Histological studies were conducted on liver samples. Acute toxicity tests were performed in rats and mice administered a single high dose of bitter yam (10 g/kg). Results: Activities of liver and kidney AST and ALT differed ( p ≤ .02) between control rats and those fed cholesterol with bitter yam for 12 weeks. Albumin to globulin ratio was reduced ( p = .03) in rats fed cholesterol with bitter yam for 6 weeks as compared to the control group. Serum urea concentration was higher ( p < .05) in rats fed bitter yam as compared to normal chow for 6 weeks. The cholesterol diet caused extensive fat deposition in liver cells; however this was inhibited by co-administration of bitter yam. Conclusion: Long-term administration of Jamaican bitter yam may induce slight changes in renal and hepatic functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently the role of adipocytokines in relationship to incidence of diabetes has been demonstrated. One of the medicinal plants that are used in the treatment of diabetes is stevia. This study investigates the effect of stevia on serum omentin and visfatin levels as novel adipocytokines in diabetic induced rats to find potential mechanisms for the anti hyperglycemic effect of stevia. Forty male wistar rats weighing 180-250 g were induced with diabetes by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ). The animals were divided into 5 groups of 8. Rats in group 1 (non-diabetic control) and group 2 (diabetic control) were treated with distilled water, and the rats in the treated groups, group 3 (T250), group 4 (T500), and group 5 (T750) were treated with stevia, gavaged every day at 9 a.m. in doses of 250, 500, and 750 mg/kg, respectively. At the end of the study significant reductions in fasting blood sugar (FBS), the homeostasis model assessment insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), triglyceride (TG), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and Omentin level were found in groups 3 and 4 in comparison with group 2. Pancreatic histopathology slides demonstrated that stevia extract did not induce any increase in the number of β-cells. The conclusion is that prescription of stevia in the doses of 250 and 500 mg/kg/d decreases the omentin level indirectly via activating insulin sensitivity and lowering blood glucose in STZ-induced diabetic rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phenytoin, an anticonvulsant agent used for the treatment of epilepsy has been reported to exhibit toxic side effects on the liver and testes. The present study investigated the protective effects of kolaviron (KV, a bioflavonoid from Garcinia kola seeds) against hepatic and testicular damage in rats exposed to phenytoin. The study consisted of four groups of six rats per group. Group I rats received 2 mL/kg of corn alone while group II received 75 mg/kg of phenytoin (PHT) alone. Groups III and IV were co-treated with kolaviron (200 mg/kg KV) and vitamin E (500 mg/kg VTE), respectively, for 14 days. The antioxidant status, hepatic and reproductive functional parameters were subsequently determined. PHT treatment significantly ( p < 0.05) increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities, elevated lipid peroxidation (LPO) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) levels along with significant reduction in the hepatic and testicular levels of glutathione (GSH). Moreover, PHT exposure elicited significant increases in alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels. The significant reduction in seminal epithelium thickness and the diameter of seminiferous tubules was accompanied with marked decrease in sperm motility, sperm count, and viability in PHT-treated rats. However, antioxidant status and the functional indices of liver and testes were restored to near control levels in rats co-treated with KV and VTE. In conclusion, KV and VTE protect the liver and testes against functional impairment due to PHT treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Efficacy of Kalpaamruthaa on the activities of lipid and carbohydrate metabolic enzymes, electron transport chain complexes and mitochondrial ATPases were studied in heart and liver of experimental rats. Cardiovascular damage (CVD) was developed in 8 weeks after type 2 diabetes mellitus induction with high fat diet (2 weeks) and low dose of streptozotocin (2 × 35 mg/kg b.w. i.p. in 24 hr interval). In CVD-induced rats, the activities of total lipase, cholesterol ester hydrolase and cholesterol ester synthetase were increased, while lipoprotein lipase and lecithin-cholesterol acyltransferase activities were decreased. The activities of lipid-metabolizing enzymes were altered by Kalpaamruthaa in CVD-induced rats towards normal. Kalpaamruthaa modulated the activities of glycolytic enzymes (hexokinase, phosphogluco-isomerase, aldolase and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase), gluconeogenic enzymes (glucose-6-phosphatase and fructose-1, 6-bisphosphatase) and glycogenolytic enzyme (glycogen phosphorylase) along with increased glycogen content in the liver of CVD-induced rats. The activities of isocitrate dehydrogenase, succinate dehydrogenase, malate dehydrogenase, α-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase, Complexes and ATPases (Na+/K+-ATPase, Ca2+-ATPase and Mg2+-ATPase) were decreased in CVD-induced rats, which were ameliorated by the treatment with Kalpaamruthaa. This study ascertained the efficacy of Kalpaamruthaa for the treatment of CVD in diabetes through the modulation of metabolizing enzymes and mitochondrial dysfunction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of herbal mixtures in the hair growth market has increased dramatically over the last decade. In this study, we investigated the hair growth-promoting activity of CARI ONE, a mixture of medicinal plants and mushrooms, in telogenic 6-week-old C57BL/6N mice. CARI ONE promoted hair growth through stimulation of the telogen to anagen transition. Histomorphometry analysis data indicated that topical application of CARI ONE induced an earlier anagen phase and prolonged the mature anagen phase, and also increased the number and size of hair follicles (HFs) as compared to either the control or 1% minoxidil-treated group. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed an earlier induction of β-catenin and Trp-1 protein in the HFs of the CARI ONE-treated group compared to that in the control group or 1% minoxidil-treated group. In vitro, CARI ONE promoted the proliferation of dermal papilla cells and resulted in increased melanin content in B16F10 cells in a dose-dependent manner without affecting cell viability. These results suggest that CARI ONE promotes hair growth through induction of the anagen phase in resting HFs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Semecarpus anacardium is a commonly used drug in the Siddha system of medicine for curing various metabolic disorders. The cardio protective effect of the drug in Type 2 diabetes-induced cardiovascular complications was studied in rats by feeding them with a high fat diet for 2 weeks followed by intra peritoneal injection of streptozotocin at a moderate dosage of 2*35 mg/kg/ b.wt 24 hr apart and leaving them for 8 weeks to develop cardiovascular complications. The effect of the drug was studied by analyzing levels of blood glucose, insulin, HbA1c, marker enzymes, the antioxidative enzymes and the levels of lipid peroxides in Type 2 diabetic rats. Diabetic rats were treated with SA at a dosage of 300 mg/kg/b.wt. for 8 weeks and the results were compared with diabetic rats treated with the combination therapy drugs metformin at a dosage of 100 mg/kg/b.wt and atorvastatin at a dosage of 10 mg/kg/b.wt for 8 weeks. The drug SA significantly decreased the blood glucose levels and also HbA1c levels while improving glucose tolerance at the same time. The levels of marker enzymes and lipid peroxides were significantly increased in diabetic rats when compared with control rats. On the other hand significant decreases in the levels of antioxidative enzymes were observed in diabetic rats. Upon treatment with the drug SA, all of these abnormalities were restored to near normalcy. The present study thereby establishes the protective effect of the drug against diabetes-induced cardiac damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Guggulsterone or guggulipid is a steroidal constituent present in the neutral fraction of gum resin of Commiphora mukul, commonly known as guggul. The traditional uses of guggul-resin extract are well documented in the Ayurveda-where it is prescribed to treat a variety of ailments including lipid-related disorders such as obesity and arteriosclerosis. The hypolipidemic activity of the extracts known since ancient times can be traced to the two closely related steroidal ketones, E-guggulsterone and Z-guggulsterone. In this study, we have investigated the dose dependent (100, 200, 400 mg/kg body weight) effect of guggulsterones on appetite regulating hormones [ghrelin, leptin, cholecystokinin (CCK)] and neurotransmitters (serotonin and dopamine), which play a major role in the energy homeostasis and thus influence obesity related factors. We have also studied its effect on food intake, body weight and plasma triglycerides and glucose in rats. Guggulsterones at the dose of 400 mg/kg body weight was able to significantly reduce food intake and limit body weight gain over a period of 15 days. It also significantly decreased the plasma ghrelin, glucose, triglyceride levels and increased plasma leptin, serotonin, dopamine levels, but did not show much effect on CCK levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study investigated the alleviative effect of aqueous extract of Trichosanthes dioica fruit (AQTD) against arsenic induced cardiotoxicity in Wistar albino rats. AQTD (50 and 100 mg/kg) was administered orally to rats for 20 consecutive days before oral administration of sodium arsenite (10 mg/kg) for 8 days. Then the body weights, heart weights, hematological profile, serum biochemical profile; myocardial antioxidative parameters viz. lipid peroxidation, reduced and oxidized glutathione, glutathione- S-transferase, glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GR), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and DNA fragmentation were evaluated. Pretreatment with AQTD markedly and significantly normalized body weights, heart weights, hematological profile, serum biochemical profile and significantly modulated all the myocardial antioxidative parameters and reduced DNA fragmentation in arsenic intoxicated rats. Therefore, T. dioica fruit possessed remarkable alleviative effects against arsenic induced myocardial toxicity in Wistar albino rats mediated by amelioration of arsenic induced myocardial oxidative stress by several mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]