Search

This study aimed to identify the bioactive compounds of the ethyl acetate extract of Aspergillus niger SH2-EGY using GC-MS and to evaluate their protective role against aflatoxin B 1 (AFB 1)-induced oxidative stress, genotoxicity and cytotoxicity in rats. Six groups of male Sprague-Dawley rats were treated orally for 4 weeks included the control group, AFB 1 -treated group (80 μg/kg b.w); fungal extract (FE)-treated groups at low (140) or high dose (280) mg/kg b.w and the groups treated with AFB 1 plus FE at the two tested doses. The GC-MS analysis identified 26 compounds. The major compounds found were 1,2,3,4,6-Penta-trimethylsilyl Glucopyranose, Fmoc-L-3-(2-Naphthyl)-alanine, D-(-)-Fructopyranose, pentakis (trimethylsilyl) ether, bis (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, trimethylsilyl ether-glucitol, and octadecanamide, N-(2- methylpropyl)-N-nitroso. The in vivo results showed that AFB 1 significantly increased serum ALT, AST, creatinine, uric acid, urea, cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, carcinoembryonic antigen, alpha-fetoprotein, interleukin-6, Malondialdehyde, nitric oxide, Bax, caspase-3 and P53 mRNA expression, chromosomal aberrations and DNA fragmentation. It decreased serum TP, albumin, HDL, Bcl-2 mRNA expression, hepatic and renal TAC, SOD and GPx content and induced histological changes in the liver and kidney. FE prevented these disturbances in a dosage-dependent manner. It could be concluded that A. niger SH2-EGY extract is safe a promising agent for pharmaceutical and food industries. • Endophytic fungi are a rich source of diverse bioactive secondary metabolites. • Twenty six bioactive compounds were isolated from Aspergillus niger SH2-EGY extract. • The extract prevent oxidative stress, cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of aflatoxin B1. • The extract was safe and effective at a dose as high as 280 mg/kg body weight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Unlike organic pollutants, heavy metals are not created nor are biodegradable materials. They naturally occur in earth crust and many of them reach the environment via anthropogenic activities, which belonged to mining, smelting, production of fertilizers, pesticide applications and others. Scope and approach Due to their water solubility and bioaccumulative tendency in different matrices of the environment, some heavy metals are extremely toxic even at low exposure levels and can be transported into the food chain. Key findings and conclusions Many criteria are defined to identify heavy metals based on their specific gravity, weight and atomic number, chemical properties and their toxicity, therefore the heavy metals term is still very loose. Dietary exposure is a significant route for trace metals to the humans and constitutes about 90% of exposure. Long term exposure to metals via food consumption, drinking water or other occupational sources leads to serious problems, e.g., hepatotoxicity, kidney failure and neurotoxicity. Analysis of the current situation concluded that the concentrations of heavy metals declined over the years, but they are still hot spots suffering from domestic wastes, agrochemicals like pesticides, fertilizers and industrial wastes. Due to the contamination sources in those hot spots, levels of some metals exceeded the approved permissible limits and become sources of severe problems to humans. Almost comprehensive hazard assessment of these metals is missing due to insufficient data corresponding to body burden for groups potentially exposed to high concentration of metals and their concentrations in foodstuffs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deoxynivalenol (DON) is a Fusarium mycotoxin that frequently contaminates cereal and cereal-based food and induces liver injury. This study evaluated the protective role of silymarin nanoparticles (SILNPs) and inulin nanoparticles (INNPs) against DON-induced liver injury in rats. Eleven groups of rats were treated orally for 3 weeks as follows: the control group, DON-treated group (5 mg/kg b.w.); INNPs-treated groups at low (LD) or high (HD) dose (100 or 200 mg/kg b.w.); SILPNs-treated group (50 mg/kg b.w.); SILNPs plus INNPs(LD) or INNPs(HD)-treated groups; INNPs(LD) or INNPs(HD) plus DON-treated groups and DON plus SILNPs and INNPs(LD) or INNPs(HD)-treated groups. Blood and tissue samples were collected for different analyses. The results revealed that the practical sizes were 200 and 98 nm for SILNPs and INNPs respectively. DON increased liver enzymes activity, lipid profile, serum cytokines, number and percentage of chromosomal aberration, DNA fragmentation and comet score. It disturbed the oxidative stress markers, down regulated gene expression and induced histological changes in the liver tissue. Treatment with DON and SILNPs and/or INNPs at the two tested doses improved all the tested parameters and SILNPs plus INNPs(HD) normalized most of these parameters in DON-treated animals. SILNPs and INNPs could be promising candidates as hepatoprotective against DON or other hepatotoxins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the protective role of chitosan nanoparticles (COS-NPs) singly or plus quercetin (Q) against OTA-induced oxidative stress and renal genotoxicity. Twelve groups of male Sprague-Dawley rats were treated orally for 3 weeks included the control group, animals fed OTA-contaminated diet (3 mg/kg diet); COS-NPs-treated groups at low (140 mg/kg b.w.) or high (280 mg/kg b.w.) dose, Q-treated group (50 mg/kg b.w.), Q plus low or high dose of COS-NPs-treated groups and OTA plus Q and/or COS-NPs at the two tested doses-treated groups. The results indicated that COS-NPs were roughly rod in shape with average particle size of 200 nm and zeta potential 31.4 ± 2.8 mV. Animals fed OTA-contaminated diet showed significant changes in serum biochemical parameters, increase kidney MDA and DNA fragmentation and decreased GPx and SOD gene expression accompanied with severe histological changes. Q and/or COS-NPs at the two tested doses induced significant improvements in all tested parameters and succeeded to overcome these effects especially in the animals treated with Q plus the high dose of COS-NPs. It could be concluded that COS-NPs are promise candidate to enhance the antioxidant effect of Q and protect against the nephrotoxicity of OTA in high endemic areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study aimed to evaluate the protective role of curcumin nanoparticles loaded hydrogels (Cur-NPs-Hgs) against AFB 1 -induced genotoxicity in rat liver. Animals were divided into 7 treatment groups and treated orally for 3 weeks as follow: the control group, the group treated with Hgs alone (0.5 ml/rat), the groups treated with low or high dose of Cur-NPs-Hgs (100 or 200 mg/kg b.w), the group treated with AFB 1 (0.125 mg/kg b.w) and the groups treated with AFB 1 plus the low or high dose of Cur-NPs-Hgs. Blood ant liver samples were collected for different biochemical, genetical, histological and histochemical analysis. The results revealed that the prepared Cur-NPs have nearly spherical shape with average size of 140 ± 20 nm and negative zeta potential value of 30.7 ± 2.57 mV. The in vivo results showed that treatment with AFB 1 decreased the body weight accompanied biochemical, genotoxicity and histological disturbances. The combined treatment with AFB 1 and Cur-Nps-Hgs at the two tested doses succeeded to induce a significant protection against AFB 1 . It could be concluded that Cur-NPs-Hgs is a promise candidate to protect against AFB 1 -induce liver damage in the high incidence area. Moreover, Hgs are excellent candidates as drug delivery system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to prepare and characterize enzymatic modified chitosan nanoparticles (CSNPs) with gallic acid (GA) or octyl gallate (OG) to optimize its potential in human application and to evaluate their protective role against ochrtoxin A (OTA) toxicity in catfish. The modified CSNPs have average size around 90 nm with positive charge and high scavenging activity especially GA-CSNPs. In the in vivo study, catfish were divided into 8 groups and treated for 3 weeks as follow: the control group, OTA-treated group (1 mg/kg b.w.), the groups treated with CSNPs, GA-CSNPs or OG-CSNPs (280 mg/kg b.w.) anole or in combination with OTA. Blood, liver and kidney samples were collected for different analyses. OTA induced a significant biochemical disturbances accompanied with oxidative stress in liver and kidney, histological changes and increase DNA fragmentation in the kidney. Co-treatment with OTA plus the different CSNPs resulted in a significant improvement in all tested parameters and histological picture of the kidney. This improvement was more pronounced in the group treated with GA-CSNPs. It could be concluded that grafting of GA or its ester improved the properties of CSNPs. Moreover, GA-CSNPs showed strong scavenging properties than OG-CSNPs due to the blocking of carboxyl groups responsible of the scavenging activity in OG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is one of the most commonly used perfluorinated compounds. Being a persistent environmental pollutant, it can accumulate in human tissues via various exposure routes. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the protective role of carboxymethyl chitosan (CMC) against PFOA-induced toxicity at the genetic and protein levels in Nile tilapia using the biochemistry analysis, SDS–PAGE electrophoresis, comet assay and RFLP–PCR methods. The results indicated that exposure to PFOA in water (30 mg/L) for 30 days resulted in a significant increase in ALT, AST, BUN, creatinine accompanied with a significant decrease in total protein and albumin. PFOA also increased DNA damage in electrophoresis condition and induced DNA and protein polymorphic band in comparison to control fish. CMC alone at 1% and 2% (W/W) in fish diets did not induce any alterations in the biochemical parameters, DNA or protein levels compared to the control group. Furthermore, CMC succeeded to decrease the toxicity of PFOA in a dose dependent manner. It could be concluded that PFOA induced genotoxicity and oxidative stress in fish similar to those reported in mammals. CMC is a promising candidate and has a protective effect against-PFOA induced in vivo DNA damage and protein alteration in Nile tilapia. This effect might be attributable to its ability to decrease intracellular ROS and its antioxidant properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zinc (Zn) is an essential trace element required for the function of the immune system. However, Zn fortification of food has faced some challenges, although excess Zn may be induced obesity and other related. This study aimed to use Zn-loaded whey protein nanoparticles (Zn-WPNPs) to enhance the immunomodulatory activity of Zn in rats treated with CCl 4. Zn was loaded to WPNPs at a level of 14 mg/g. Four experimental groups of male albino Wistar rats were treated for 30 days including the control group, CCl 4 -treated group (0.5 ml/100 g b.w), Zn plus CCl 4 -treated group (50 mg/kg b.w), and CCl 4 plus Zn-WPNPs-treated group (50 mg/kg b.w). Blood and tissue samples were collected for different assays and histological examinations. The results revealed that CCl 4 disturbs the serum biochemical, hematological, and immune indicators in different organs besides the liver as a target organ. Animals that received CCl 4 showed a significant increase in oxidative stress markers, cytokines, and the mRNA expression of inflammatory mediators in the lung and spleen accompanied by a significant decrease in the hepatic and renal antioxidant enzymes along with histological changes in the liver, kidney, spleen, and lung. Zn or Zn-WPNPs could improve these parameters and the histological picture of the tested organs and Zn-WPNPs were more effective than Zn alone. WPNPs induced synergistic immune-modulating effects which may control Zn release and may be a suitable candidate to enhance the immune system during any pandemic or the exposure to any chemicals that affect the immune system. • Zn (14.5 mg/g) was loaded to whey protein nanoparticles (Zn-WPNPs). • Zn-WPNPs enhanced the immunomodulatory activity of Zn. • Zn-WPNPs improved the oxidant/antioxidant markers. • Zn-WPNPs increase serum cytokines, and modulate the inflammatory gene expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO 2 -NPs) are widely utilized in medicine and industry; however, their safety in biological organisms is still unclear. In this study, we determined the bioactive constitutes of thyme essential oil (TEO) and utilized the nanoemulsion technique to improve its protective efficiency against oxidative stress, genotoxicity, and DNA damage of biosynthesized titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO 2 -NPs). TEO nanoemulsion (TEON) was prepared using whey protein isolate (WPI). Sixty male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into six groups and treated orally for 21 days including the control group, TEO, or TEON- treated groups (5 mg/kg b.w), TiO 2 -NPs-treated group (50 mg/kg b.w) and the groups received TiO 2 -NPs plus TEO or TEON. Blood and tissues samples were collected for different assays. The GC-MS analysis identified 17 bioactive compounds in TEO and thymol and carvacrol were the major compounds. TEON was irregular with average particles size of 230 ± 3.7 nm and ζ-potential of −24.17 mV. However, TiO2-NPs showed a polygonal shape with an average size of 50 ± 2.4 nm and ζ-potential of −30.44 mV. Animals that received TiO2-NPs showed severe disturbances in liver and kidney indices, lipid profile, oxidant/antioxidant indices, inflammatory cytokines, gene expressions, increased DNA damage, and pathological changes in hepatic tissue. Both TEO and TEON showed potential protection against these hazards and TEON was more effective than TEO. The nanoemulsion of TEO enhances the oil bioactivity, improves its antioxidant characteristics, and protects against oxidative damage and genotoxicity of TiO2-NPs. • Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO 2 -NPs) induced oxidative stress and DNA damage • TiO 2 -NPs induced disturbances in the RNA gene expression • Seventeen bioactive compounds were identified in thyme essential oil (TEO) • TEO nanoemulsion (TEON) improved its antioxidant activity of the oil • TEON showed a potent protection against TiO 2 -NPs [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to prepare and characterize activated carbon (AC) and to evaluate its protective effect against deoxynivalenol (DON) toxicity in rats compared to Egyptian montmorillonite (EM). AC was prepared using a single-step chemical activation with phosphoric acid (H 3 PO 4 ). The resulted AC has a high surface area and a high total pore volume. Male Sprague–Dawley rats were divided into 6 groups (n = 10) and treated for 3 weeks as follow: the control group, the groups fed AC or EM-supplemented diet (0.5% w/w), the group treated orally with DON (5 mg/kg b.w.) and the groups fed AC or EM-supplemented diet and treated with DON. Blood and liver samples were collected for different analyses. Treatment with DON increased liver function enzymes, lipid peroxidation, tumor necrosis factor α, DNA fragmentation, decreased hepatic glutathione content, up regulating mRNA Fas and TNF-α genes expression and increased micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes and normochromatic erythrocytes in bone marrow. Co-treatment of DON plus AC or EM succeeded to normalize the levels of the biochemical parameters, reduced the cytotoxicity of bone marrow and ameliorated the hepatic genotoxicity. Moreover, AC was more effective than EM and has a high affinity to adsorb DON and to reduce its cytotoxicity and genotoxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Liver diseases are amongst the most serious health problems in the world today and hepatocellular carcinoma is one of the world''s deadliest cancers. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the protective effect of sider honey and/or Korean ginseng extract (KGE) against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced hepato-nephrotoxicity in rat. Eighty male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were allocated into different groups and over a 4-week period, they orally received honey and/or KGE or were treated either with CCl4 alone (100mg/kg b.w) or with CCl4 after a pretreatment period with honey, KGE or a combination of both. Clinical, clinico-pathological and histopathological evaluations were done and CCl4-treated groups were compared with rats receiving no treatment and with rats given honey, KGE or a combination of these substances. The results indicated that oral administration of CCl4 induced severe hepatic and kidney injury associated with oxidative stress. The combined treatment with CCl4 plus honey and/or KGE resulted in a significant improvement in all evaluated parameters. This improvement was prominent in the group receiving CCl4 after combined pretreatment with honey and KGE. Animals receiving honey and/or KGE (without CCl4-treatment) were comparable to the control untreated group. It could be concluded that honey and KGE protect SD rats against the severe CCl4-induced hepatic and renal toxic effects. Our results suggest that the protective activity of honey and KGE may have been related to their antioxidant properties. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Cadmium (Cd) is a non-essential element and is a widespread environmental pollutant. Exposure to cadmium can result in cytotoxic, carcinogenic and mutagenic effects. The aim of the current work was to evaluate the protective effect of Aquilegia vulgaris extract against the oxidative stress and the genotoxicity induced by Cd using the chromosomal aberrations in somatic and germ cells assay and random amplified polymorphism DNA (RAPD-PCR) analysis. Forty male Balb/c mice were divided into four groups including the control group, Cd-treated group and the groups treated with the extract alone or plus Cd. The results indicated that Cd increased serum ALT, AST, urea, LDH, CK, lipid peroxidation in liver tissue accompanied with a significant decrease in GPX and SOD. Cd also increased the number of chromosomal aberrations in bone marrow and spermatocytes including structural and numerical aberrations. Animals treated with the extract alone were comparable to the control regarding all the tested parameters. The extract succeeded in preventing or diminishing the oxidative stress and the clastogenic effects of Cd. It could be concluded that Aquilegia vulgaris extract is a promising protective agent against oxidative stress and genotoxicity during the exposure to Cd. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The current study was conducted to evaluate the chemoprevention effects of ginseng extract (GE) against pre-cancerous lesions in female Sprague–Dawley rats treated with aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) and fumonisin (FB). Six experimental groups treated for 12weeks and included: the control group; the GE alone-treated group (150mg/kg b.w); the group treated orally with AFB1 (17μg/kg b.w) during the first 2weeks and fed FB-contaminated diet (250mg/kg diet) during the 6th to 8th weeks; the group treated with GE during the mycotoxin protocol and continued till week 10; the group treated with GE 2weeks before AFB1 administration and continued till the end of FB treatment and the group treated with GE for 4weeks after the toxin protocol stopped. The sequential mycotoxins treatment induced significant changes in serum biochemical parameters accompanied by severe histological and histochemical changes of the liver tissue. Treatment with GE during, before or after the treatment with the mycotoxins improved all biochemical parameters and histological picture of the liver. Moreover, treatment with GE after the administration of the mycotoxins was found to be more effective. It could be concluded that GE has a protective effects as pre-cancerous lesions and therapeutic effects as well. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Ochratoxin A (OTA) is a mycotoxin often found in cereals and agricultural products. There is unequivocal evidence of renal carcinogenicity of OTA in male rats, although the mechanism of action is unknown. Several reports suggest that exposure to OTA resulted in oxidative stress, genotoxicity and DNA damage. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to evaluate the protective effects of aqueous extract of Inula crithmoides growing in Egypt against OTA-induced mutagenicity and oxidative stress. Forty male Sprague–Dawley rats were divided into four groups and treated for 15 days as follows: control group and the groups treated with OTA (3mg/kg b.w), I. crithmoides extract alone (370mg/kg b.w) and OTA+ I. crithmoides extract. Blood and tissue samples were collected for different biochemical analyses. Bone marrow micronucleus test and blood for random amplified polymorphism DNA-PCR (RAPD-PCR) method were performed to assess the antigenotoxic effect of the extract. The results indicated that OTA induced toxicological effects typical to those reported in the literature and increased the frequencies of MnPCEs in bone marrow. The RAPD-PCR analysis revealed the appearance of new bands in DNA resulting from genetic alteration. The extract alone was safe and succeeded in counteracting the oxidative stress and protect against the cytotoxicity resulting from OTA. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The levels of organohalogenated contaminants, i.e. PCBs, PCDDs and PCDFs were determined in sediment and fish samples collected from different locations in the River Nile, Egypt. Thirty-six sediment and eighteen fish samples were carried out during a period of 12 months from February 2003 to February 2004. Determination of PCBs and dioxins was carried out using a high resolution GC mass spectrometer. The results indicated that the PCB and PCDD/F mean concentrations in sediment samples ranged from 1461 to 2244 and from 240 to 775pgg−1 dry wt basis, respectively. The mean concentration of PCBs and PCDD/Fs in fish samples were found to be in the range from 695 to 853pgg−1 fresh wt for PCB congeners and from 27.7 to 121pgg−1 lipid for total PCDD/Fs. Moreover, the concentrations of both PCBs and PCDD/Fs were found to be different at different locations along the River Nile. It could be concluded that the contamination of the River Nile is within the permissible limits set by the FDA and the Egyptian Standards for fish and shellfish. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This study aimed to determine the bioactive compounds of Bacillus sp. MERNA97 extract and to evaluate their efficacy against the oxidative damage, genotoxicity, chromosomal aberration and DNA fragmentation in rats treated with AFB 1. Sixty male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into 6 groups and treated for 6 weeks and included the control group, AFB 1 -treated group (80 μg/kg b. w), the groups treated with Bacillus extract (BE) at low (2 mg/kg b.w) or high (4 mg/kg b.w) dose and the groups treated with AFB 1 plus BE at the two doses. Blood and tissues samples were collected for different assays. The GC-MS results revealed the isolation of 44 compounds belong to different classes. The in vivo results showed that AFB 1 disturbs all the biochemical parameters, oxidative stress markers, cytokines gene expression chromosomal aberration and DNA fragmentation along with the histological changes in the liver tissue. BE at the two tested doses induced a significant improvement in all parameters tested and the histological picture in a dose dependent manner. It could be concluded that the extract of Bacillus sp. MERNA97 isolated from the marine environment in the Red Sea is a promise as a source of novel compounds with therapeutically benefits. • AFB1 in food and feed is well known hepato carcinogens to human and animals. • Bacillus species are able to produce bioactive secondary metabolites. • We identified 44 compounds from the ethyl acetate extract of Bacillus. • Bacillus extract showed a potential hepato protective role against AFB1. • This protection was dose dependent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Polyphenols are important metabolites in plants and have some human health benefits. • Costus speciosus is herbaceous plant has various pharmacological properties. • HPLC analysis identified a total of 13 compounds in C. speciosus. • The aqueous ethanol and methanol extracts showed various antioxidant activities. • Methanolic extract showed a potential anticancer property against HePG2 cell lines. This study aimed to assess the effect of extraction time on the quantitative polyphenolic content, to qualitative the polyphenols of different solvent extracts, to establish the antioxidant and cytotoxic activity against hepatocelular carcinoma (HePG-2) cell lines of C. speciosus extracts. Total falvonoids and polyphenols content in the ethanolic extract was the highest followed by the methanolic then the aqueous extracts and they were increased by increasing the extraction time. The HPLC analysis identified a total of 13 compounds in each extract with different concentrations. Quercetin, Caffeic acid, and gallic acid were high in the aqueous extract, while the hydroalcoholic extracts were rich in syringic acid, chlorogenic acid and naringenin. All the tested extracts have an appreciable antioxidant inhibiting effect with some slight variations with the exception of beta-carotene test and reducing power ions Chelating assay where the hydroalcoholic extracts showed an activity higher than 50% compared to the aqueous extract. Methanolic extract showed a potential anticancer property against HePG2 cell lines followed by the ethanol extract, then the water extract which showed a weak anticancer property. The current results indicated that C. speciosus is rich in polyphenols content which modulate the hazardous effects of free radicals and oxidative stress as well as its anticancer property. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zearalenone (ZEN) is a non-steroidal estrogenic mycotoxin that induces severe health disturbances in humans and animals. This study aimed to determine the bioactive compounds in Costus speciosus extract (CSE) using GC-MS and evaluate its protective capability against ZEN-induced oxidative damage, genotoxicity, and cytotoxicity in rats. Six groups of male Sprague Dawley rats were treated orally for 15 days including the control group, CSE-treated groups at low (200 mg/kg b. w) or high (400 mg/kg b. w) dose, ZEN-treated group (40 μg/kg b. w), and the groups treated with ZEN plus the low or the high dose of CSE. Blood and tissue samples were collected for different assays and pathological analyses. The results of GC-MS indicated the identification of 6 compounds and Azulene was the major. Animals that received ZEN showed severe disturbances in serum biochemical, cytokines, oxidative stress indicators, mRNA expression of iNOS, Nrf2, and inflammatory-related genes. ZEN also increased micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes (MNPCEs) and comet tail formation in bone marrow cells along with the disturbances in the histological architecture of the liver and kidney. Co-administration of CSE plus ZEN could normalize the majority of the tested parameters and the histological picture at a dose as low as 200 mg/kg b. w. Therefore, CSE protects against ZEN toxicity via its antioxidant activity, modulation of iNOS, inflammatory-related genes, and the Nrf2 pathway and it could be used in the endemic regions. [Display omitted] • Zearalenone (ZEN) induced oxidative damage, disturbs inflammatory cytokine, cytotoxicity and genotoxicity in rats. • Six bioactive compounds were isolated from Costus speciosus extract (CSE) and Azulene was the major compound. • CSE alleviated ZEN-induce oxidative damage in a dose-depended fashion and may be used in the area endemic with ZEN. • Costus speciosus extract modulates the cytokines, Nrf2 and iNOS mRNA gene expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The occurrences of mycotoxins as food contaminants in different localities particularly in developing countries and the inevitable exposure of populations and children to these toxins with probable adverse outcomes need be scientifically and systematically assessed. Health risk assessment developed in the 1980s is separate from risk management, both with risk communication form the risk analysis framework adopted by the World Health Organization. The process contributes increasingly to policy development, public health decision making, the establishment of mycotoxin regulations and research planning. However, the exercise of the risk assessment structured approach is not simple and is faced up to lack of data, capable infrastructure facilities and need for trained personnel and resources. Furthermore, adopted methodologies need be developed focusing on child characteristics and health concerns. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Zearalenone (ZEN) is a non-steroidal estrogenic mycotoxin produced by several species of Fusarium in cereals and agricultural products. It has been implicated in several mycotoxicosis in farm animals and in humans. There is unequivocal evidence of reproductive toxicity of ZEN in male mice although the mechanism of action is unknown. Several reports suggest that exposure to ZEN resulted in oxidative stress, genotoxicity and perturbation of reproductive parameters. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to evaluate the protective effects of aqueous extract of Raphanus sativus growing in Tunisia against ZEN-induced reproductive toxicity and oxidative stress. Fifty male Balb/c mice were divided into five groups and treated for 28 days as follows: the control group, olive oil-treated groups, another treated with ZEN (40mg/kg b.w), the last one treated with R. sativus extract alone (15mg/kg b.w) and the other with ZEN+ R. sativus extract. Testis samples were collected for the epididymal sperm count, testosterone concentration, and MDA level, GPx, CAT and SOD activities. Blood samples were collected for different biochemical analyses. Also, RAPD–PCR method was performed to assess the antigenotoxic effect of the extract in germ cells. The results indicated that ZEN-induced toxicological effects in accordance to those reported in the literature: decreasing in the sperm number, testosterone level and antioxidant enzyme status. The RAPD–PCR analysis revealed an alteration in the DNA bands patterns between control and ZEN-treated mice. The extract alone, rich in many antioxidant compounds, was safe and succeeded in counteracting the oxidative stress and protect against the toxicity resulting from ZEN. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The use of nitrofurans as veterinary drugs has been banned in the EU since 1993 due to doubts on the safety of the protein-bound residues of these drugs in edible products. Furazolidone (FUZ) is a nitrofuran drug, which has been used for many years as an antibacterial drug in veterinary practice. The aim of the current study is to investigate the role of l-cysteine and l-methionine in the protection against hormonal imbalance and the genotoxicity induced by FUZ using the micronucleus (MN) assay and random amplified polymorphism DNA (RAPD–PCR) analysis in female rats. Forty female Sprague–Dawley rats were divided into four groups included the untreated control group; a group treated with FUZ (300mg/kg b.w.); a group treated with a mixture of l-cysteine (300mg/kg b.w.) and l-methionine (42.8mg/kg b.w.) and a group treated with FUZ plus the mixture of l-cysteine and l-methionine for 10 days. The results indicated that FUZ induced hormonal disturbances involving thyroid, ovarian and adrenal hormones. Moreover, FUZ increased the micronucleus formation and induced changes in polymorphic band patterns. The combined treatment with FUZ and the mixture of l-cysteine and l-methionine succeeded to prevent or diminish the endocrine disturbance and the clastogenic effects of FUZ. The current study is casting new light on the complex mechanisms underlying the ameliorating action of dietary l-cysteine and l-methionine against FUZ toxicity in experimental animals. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Chromium-picolinate (Cr-picolinate) is a popular nutritional supplement; however its safety has been questioned with regard to its ability to act as a clastogen. The aim of the present work was to evaluate the biochemical, histological and morphological changes in the cornea and lens following oral administration of Cr-picolinate and the possible protective effect of Vitamin C. Ninety male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into five groups included the control group, the groups treated with Cr-picolinate (0.8 and 1.5mg/100g b.w.) alone or in combination with Vitamin C (0.5mg/100g b.w.) for 8 weeks. The results indicated that the high dose of Cr-picolinate induced a significant decrease in SOD, GSH, Na+-, K+-ATPase levels, and a significant increase in MDA level. Severe morphological and histological changes in the cornea and lens accompanied with a decrease in the total soluble protein of the lens homogenate and changes in the crystallines fractions in lens. Vitamin C supplementation succeeded to restore these changes to great extent. It could be concluded that consumption of Cr-picolinate for a long time induced several hazards to cornea and lens. Supplementation with extra amounts of Vitamin C may be useful to restrain the Cr-picolinate induced ocular changes. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The commercially hydrated sodium calcium aluminosilicate (HSCAS) and the Egyptian montmorillonite (EM) had an excellent capability of adsorbing AFB1 and FB1 in an aqueous solution at different tested levels. The adsorption ratio of HSCAS ranged from 95.3% to 99.1% and 84.7% to 92.4% of the available AFB1 and FB1 respectively. EM showed an adsorption ratio ranged from 95.4% to 99.2% and 78.2% to 92.2% for AFB1 and FB1 respectively. Both adsorbents were effective at 0.5% level. Results of the ability of these adsorbents at level of 0.5% (w/v) to adsorb AFB1 and FB1 in malt extract spiked with 50, 100 and 200 ppb indicated that the capability of adsorbing of HSCAS ranged from 98.5% to 98.9% and 88.2% to 91.9% for AFB1 and FB1 respectively. Whereas, the capability of adsorbing of EM ranged from 98.1% to 98.7% and 88.2% to 92.5% for AFB1 and FB1 respectively. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The present study was conducted to determine the abilities of the living Lactobacillus plantarum MON03 cells to degrade Zearalenone (ZEN) in liquid medium, and to elucidate the preventive effect in ZEN-contaminated balb/c mice showing kidney damage. The DNA fragmentation, Bcl-2 and Bax gene expression, caspase-3 activity, mRNA level of inflammation-regulating cytokines and histology of kidney tissues were examined. Female Balb/c mice were divided into four groups (10/group) and treated daily for 2 wk by oral gavage with lactic acid bacteria (L. plantarum MON03) 2 × 109 CFU/L, ~2 mg/kg only, ZEN (40 mg/kg BW) only, ZEN (40 mg/kg BW) + lactic acid bacteria (L. plantarum MON03, 2 × 109 CFU/L, ~2 mg/kg). Control group received vehicle. At the end of experiment, the kidney was collected for the determination of DNA fragmentation, Bcl-2 and Bax gene expression,caspase-3 activity, Malondialdehyde (MDA), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) content, as well as for any alterations in expression of total antioxidant activity (TAC) and mRNA levels of inflammation-regulating cytokines (e.g., IL-10 , IL-6 , TNF-alpha). The results indicated that, kidney cells exposure to ZEN led to increased caspase-3 activity, MDA, and IL-10, IL-6, TNF-alpha and Bax mRNA levels, but decreased TAC content and down-regulated expression of GSH-Px and CAT and Bcl- 2 mRNA. Co-treatment with ZEN plus LP suppressed the levels of DNA fragmentation; normalized kidney MDA and increased CAT levels, up-regulated expression of GSH-Px and CAT, and normalized mRNA levels of the analyzed cytokines. It's concluded that ZEN might have toxic effects in kidney. Further, it can be seen that use of LP induced protective effects against the oxidative stress and kidney toxicity of ZEN in part through adhesion (and so likely diminished bioavailability). • Zearalenone increases DNA damage, Bcl-2 and decrease caspase-3; 9 and Bax mRNA levels. • Lactobacillus plantarum MON03 protects against Zearalenone genotoxicity in kidney. • Lactobacillus plantarum MON03 was safe and can be candidate in the ZEN detoxification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • 8% of Zearalenone (ZEN) LD50 is able to induce micronuclei and chromosome aberrations in bone morrow cells of Mice after 2 weeks of treatment. • ZEN was increased DNA fragmentation, the expression of Bcl-2, and their target proteins, and down regulated caspase-3, caspase-9, and Bax. • Lactobacillus plantarum MON03 protects mice against ZEN-cytotoxicity, DNA fragmentation, genes expression and target proteins content damage. • Lactobacillus plantarum MON03 was safe and haven't any hidden risk and can be a good candidate in the ZEN detoxification technology. Abstract Zearalenone (ZEN) is a potent estrogenic metabolite produced by some Fusarium species. No treatment has been successfully employed to get rid against ZEN contained in foods and/or mitigates its genotoxicity. This study was conducted to evaluate the ability of lactic acid bacteria, isolated from Tunisia traditional butter, Lactobacillus plantarum MON03 (LP) to protect mice against cytotoxicity and genotoxicity induced by ZEN. Two doses of LP (2 × 109 CFU/L, ∼2 mg/kg and 4 × 109 CFU/L, ∼4 mg/kg) was added alone or in combination with a toxic intragastric ZEN (40 mg/kg representing 8% of LD 50) dose daily for 2 wk by oral gavage. The control group received distilled water. The positive control groups received Colchicin (4 mg/kg bw) for the micronucleus assay and mitomycin C (1 mg/kg bw) for the chromosome aberrations assay. 48 h after treatment, the small intestines, femur and tibia are dissected out. Small intestines were collected for the determination of DNA fragmentation, genes expression and target proteins content. The results show that ZEN was cytotoxic and genotoxic to mice as indicated by the increase in frequencies of polychromatic erythrocytes micronucleated (PCEMN) and chromosomal aberrations in bone marrow cells. In the small intestine ZEN was increased DNA fragmentation, down regulated the expressions of caspase-3, caspase-9, and Bax as well as up-regulated the expression of Bcl-2 and their target proteins. The simultaneous intragastric administration of LP with ZEN resulted in a decrease of PCEMN number and chromosomal aberrations frequency and in an increase of polychromatic erythrocytes (PCE) in bone marrow cells compared with the group treated with ZEN alone. In addition, LP succeeded to alleviate the disturbances in DNA fragmentation and the expression of these genes and their target proteins. It could be concluded that the use of LP induced protective effects against genotoxicity of ZEN in part through adhesion and so likely diminished its bio-availability in gastro-intestinal tract. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the hepatoprotective effect of whey protein nanoparticles (WP-NPs) coated Zinc citrate (Zn) against oxidative stress complications and disturbances in gene expression in rats treated with CCl 4. WP-NPs were used to coat Zn at three levels and amino acids content was determined in WP-NPs and the fabrications. Seven groups of male albino rats included the control group, CCl 4 -treated group (0.5 ml/100 g b.w) and the groups treated with CCl 4 plus WP-NPs, Zn and the three Zn-WP-NPs fabrications. Blood and liver samples were collected for different analysis. Particles sizes were 95, 142, 196 and 228 nm and zeta potential values were −95, −114, −85 and −79 for WP-NPs and the three Zn-WP-NPs fabrications, respectively. Twelve amino acids were found in WP-NPs and this number was decreased by increasing Zn content. WP-NPs, Zn and the Zn coated WP-NPs counteracted the disturbances in biochemical, parameters, gene expression and histological changes in CCl 4 -treated rats and Zn-WP-NPs was more effective at the low dose. It could be concluded that WP-NPs enhance the effect of Zn and can be used for coating Zn in the preparation of Zn supplementation to enhance its effect and counteract the side effect of excess Zn. Highlights • Zinc (Zn) is an essential trace element affects several vital biological processes. • Encapsulation of Zn increases its efficiency and prevents any side effects. • Zn loaded whey protein nanoparticles (WP-NPs) improves their antioxidant efficiency. • Low dose of Zn loaded WP-NPs was more effective than Zn alone, medium or high level. • Zn loaded WP-NPs modulate gene expression and counteract the hazards of excess Zn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aflatoxin B 1 (AFB 1) is common carcinogen causing acute and chronic hepatocyte injuries. This study aimed to determine the bioactive components of Teucrium polium methanolic extract (TPE) and to evaluate their protective role against AFB 1 -induced oxidative damage, cytotoxicity, and genotoxicity in rats. Six groups of male albino rats were treated orally for 4 weeks including the control group, the ِAFB 1 -treated group (80 μg/kg b.w.), the groups treated with low (LD) or high (HD) dose TPE (50 or 100 mg/kg b.w.), and the groups treated with AFB 1 plus TEP (LD) or TPE (HD). Blood and serum samples were collected for different assays. The GC-MS identified 34 compounds, the major compounds were pinene, germacrene D, α-cadinol, α-thujene, epi-bicyclosesquiphellandrene, and limonene. Animals that received AFB 1 showed significant changes in all indicators of oxidative stress, biochemistry, cytokines, MNPCEs, comet tail formation in bone marrow, mRNA expression of inflammatory-related genes, Nrf2, and iNOS beside histological changes in the liver. TPE at the two doses tested showed insignificant changes in all tested parameters. The extract could normalize most of these parameters and the hepatic structure in AFB 1 -treated animals in a dose-dependent fashion. therefore, we concluded that TPE supplementation is effective for protection against AFB 1 in endemic areas. [Display omitted] • Aflatoxin B1 induced oxidative damage, disturbs serum biochemistry, and lipid profile • Aflatoxin B1 also disturbs serum cytokines and pro-inflammatory gene expression • The Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry identified 34 bioactive compounds in Teucrium polium extract • Teucrium polium induced potential protection against Aflatoxin B1 in a dose-dependent fashion • Teucrium polium is promising candidate against Aflatoxin B1 toxicity in endemic areas [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to assess the disturbances in intestinal genes expression and DNA fragmentation in mice treated orally with aflatoxin B 1 (AFB 1 ) or aflatoxin M 1 (AFM 1 ) and the protective activity of Lactobacillus plantarum (LP). Male Balb/c mice were divided into 6 groups including the control group, the group treated with 2 mg/kg b.w of LP (2 × 10 9  cfu/mL), the groups treated with AFB 1 or AFM 1 (100 μg/kg b.w), and the groups treated with AFB 1 or AFM 1 during, after or before LP. Small intestines were collected for the determination of DNA fragmentation, gene expression and target protein content. The results showed that AFB 1 or AFM 1 increased DNA fragmentation, down regulated the expressions of caspase-3, caspase-9, CYP3A13, Bax and p53 as well as up-regulated the expression of TNF-α and Bcl-2 and their target proteins. LP succeeded to alleviate the disturbances in DNA fragmentation and the expression of these genes. The improvement was more pronounced in the group co-administered with the toxins plus LP. It could be concluded that AFB 1 and AFM 1 induced disturbances in intestinal function via the disturbances in DNA fragmentation and genes expression. LP induced a potential protective effect and is considered a promising agent against the genotoxicity induced by these mycotoxins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to determine the bioactive compounds of actinomyces (ACT) isolated from the Egyptian environment (D-EGY) and to evaluate their protective activity against AFB 1 in female Sprague-Dawley rats. Six groups of animals were treated orally for 3 weeks included: C, the control group, T1, AFB 1 -treated group (80 μg/kg b.w), T2 and T3, the groups received ACT extract at low (25 mg/kg b.w) or high (50 mg/kg b.w) doses, T4 and T5, the groups received AFB 1 plus the low or high dose of ACT extract. Blood, bone marrow and tissue samples were collected for different analyses and histological examination. The results revealed the identification of 40 components, representing 99.98%. Treatment with AFB 1 disturbs liver function parameters, oxidative stress markers, antioxidant gene expressions, DNA fragmentation and induced severe histological changes. ACT extract at the low or high doses did not induce significant changes in all the tested parameters or histological picture of the liver. Moreover, ACT extract succeeded to induce a significant protection against the toxicity of AFB 1 . It could be concluded that the bioactive compounds in ACT are promise candidate for the development of food additive or drugs for the protection and treatment of liver disorders in the endemic area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mycotoxin contamination of foods from mycotoxigenic fungi such as Aspergillus , Alternaria , Fusarium and Penicillium spp. is a significant threat to food safety and quality. Aflatoxins, ochratoxins, fumonisins, deoxynivalenol, zearalenone, trichothecenes and patulin have been demonstrated to show immune toxicity, carcinogenicity, nephrotoxicity, hepatotoxicity, neurotoxicity and teratogenicity activities in humans and animals. Implementation of the prerequisite programs like the HACCP-based procedures can reduce mycotoxin contamination, while conventional chemical, biological and physical methods can be employed for detoxification after contamination. But the increasing fungal resistance and challenges associated with the conventional systems necessitate the development of innovative strategies for rapid elimination with short processing time and negligible impact on quality. This review evaluated recent innovative strategies of cold atmospheric plasma (CAP), polyphenols and flavonoids, magnetic materials and nanoparticles and natural essential oils (NEOs) for controlling mycotoxin in foods. Although the available studies indicated the promising potential of these strategies, complete decontamination was not achieved. The mechanisms for the reduced bioactivity of mycotoxins included the disruption of fungal cell membrane and structural degradation of complex biochemical molecules by the oxidative effects of reactive species, inhibition of enzymes responsible for breakdown of carbohydrates and adsorption and binding of functional groups of mycotoxins in food substrate. Integrated management systems of combining multiple strategies can be explored for achieving higher efficiency and better adaptability to different food matrices. Additional studies on the toxicity of the food matrices, degraded products and industrial up-scaling are necessary for ensuring widespread adoption and cost-effective commercialisation for sustainable food processing. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Lung cancer is one of the most common types of malignant tumors of the respiratory system and has the highest rates of incidence and mortality of malignant tumors. This study aimed to synthesize and characterize berberine-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (BBR-COSNPs) and to evaluate their protective effects against urethane-induced lung cancer. Forty male albino mice were divided into four groups, with the first serving as a negative control and the other three groups were injected intraperitoneally with urethane (1 mg/kg b.w) each other day for 1 week then group 2 was served as a positive control, however, groups 3 and 4 were treated orally with a daily dose of BBR or BBR-COSNPs (75 mg/kg b.w) for 10 consecutive weeks. Blood and lung tissue samples are collected for laboratory assay. The BBR-COSNPs were spherical, with an average particle size of 45.56 nm and zeta potential of 39.82 1.82 mV. The in vivo data demonstrated that mice given urethane alone had a significant increase in MDA, NO, NF-κB level, HIF1-α, and COX-2-positive expression in the lung tissue and serum VEGFR2, ALT, AST, urea, and creatinine accompanied with a significant decrease in GSH, SOD, caspase 9 in the lung tissue and serum BAX. Co-treatment with BBR-COSNPs suppressed lung cancer growth and promoted apoptosis by modulating serum BAX and lung caspase 9 gene expressions. In addition, BBR-COSNPs inhibited tumor angiogenesis by reduction in levels of serum VEGFR2 and lung HIF 1 gene expression. It is possible to conclude that BBR-COSNPs can be used in oral administration formulations for lung anticancer therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]