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The aim of our work is to assess physicochemical and antibacterial potential of two local honeys compared with two imported honeys. A carbohydrate profile was carried out by HPLC. All honeys are acid and the free acidity of Zriba (36 ± 13 méq.kg-1), Sidi Achour (36.66 ± 0.57 méq.kg-1) were in standards well above those of imported honey: San Francisco (7 méq.kg-1), Elshifa (20 méq.kg-1). Refractive index complied with the standards. Sidi Achour honey was denser (1.4206) than the others. Ash content of local honey (0.76 ± 0.07) and imported honey San Francisco (0.72 ± 0.57) were higher than those of Zriba honey (0.41 ± 0.08) and Elshifa (0.25 ± 0.038). All honeys had a sucrose content within the standard. Local honey contained Trehalose and melezitose, and richer in fructose and raffinose, F & G and maltose levels were consistent with standards. Sidi Achour contained the highest turanose content (2.15 ± 0.49%) relative to the studied honey samples. Antibacterial activity showed that all honeys have antibacterial potential when they are pure. Sidi Achour was active against E.coli (24 ± 6.08 mm), S.enteritidis (26.33 ± 1.15 mm), S.aureus (19.66 ± 0.57 mm), B.cereus (13.33 ± 8.73 mm) and E.faecalis (15 ± 1 mm). Zriba honey showed the same antibacterial honey except for B.cereus (7.66 ± 2.88 mm). The imported honeys were active on the growth of only three bacteria: E.coli, S.enteritidis and S.aureus.

Depressive anxiety is one of the most emotional disorders in our industrial societies. Many treatments of phobias exist and are based on plant extracts therapies, which play an important role in the amelioration of the behavior. Our study aimed to evaluate the adaptogenic activity of different essential oils provided from local plants: Cinnamomum camphora (Camphora), Eucalyptus globulus (Blue gum), Lavandula stœchas (Topped lavender) and Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary) on Wistar rats. The adaptogenic activity was evaluated on the elevated plus-maze. The efficacy of the extract (200 mL/kg) was compared with the standard anxiolytic drug Diazepam® 1 mg. Animals administered by the essential oil of Lavandula stœchas, Cinnamomum camphora, Rosmarinus officinalis and Eucalyptus globulus showed a behavior similar to those treated with Diazepam®. For groups treated with the following essential oils: Rosmarinus officinalis, Lavandula stoechas and Cinnamomum camphora at a dose of 200 mL/kg, we notice an increase in the time spent on the open arms of the elevated plus-maze and a decrease in time spent on the closed arms of the elevated plus-maze, especially for Rosmarinus officinalis, which explains the anxiolytic effect of these plants. We also notice a decrease in the number of entries in closed arms, open arms and the number of passing to the central square. The increase in the number of entries to open arms with Eucalyptus globulus essential oil shows a reduction in anxiety behavior in rodents and this shows that these plants have an inhibitory effect.

Background and objective Despite their effects on human health, the link between smokeless tobacco (ST) consumption and asthma severity in asthmatic patients is still unknown. Thus, the present study aims to complete the lack of information by investigating the aggravation of inflammation, exacerbation of asthma, oxidative stress and cytotoxicity induced by ST in asthmatic patients. Methods The study recruited 80 male volunteers residing in Annaba town, Algeria, divided into four groups by using a questionnaire, each group consists of 20 male volunteers. Herein, biochemical parameters, hematological parameters, C-reactive protein (CRP), total IgE, interleukin-5 (IL-5), nitric oxide (NO) and oxidative stress were measured. Results The obtained results showed that ST clearly enhanced lung inflammation and exacerbation of asthma through total IgE, IL-5 and CRP increased production. In addition, ST was found to intensify oxidative stress via increased lipid peroxidation and decreased reduced glutathione (GSH) levels. Likewise, the biochemical and hematological parameters results showed that ST causes damage and inflammation to tissues. Conclusion Therefore, our study reveals that ST obviously enhances allergic inflammation in patients suffering from asthma.

The aim of this work was to study the nephroprotective role and antioxidant capacity of Atriplex halimus aqueous leaves extract (AHAE) against carbon tetrachloride-induced kidney injury in rats. The experimental rats were randomized into four experimental groups of eight each: Group (C) served as a control received a normal diet, Group (CCl4) received a normal diet for 4 weeks and then was injected with one dose of 1.0 ml/kg body weight of carbon tetrachloride dissolved in olive oil (v/v) intraperitoneally, Group (AHAE + CCl4) received 200 mg/kg body weight of AHAE for 4 weeks and then was injected with one dose of 1.0 ml/kg body weight of carbon tetrachloride dissolved in olive oil (v/v) intraperitoneally, and Group (AHAE) received 200 mg/kg body weight of AHAE for 4 weeks. The AHAE nephroprotective effect was evaluated histopathologically and biochemically through measuring several indices in plasma, urine, and renal tissue homogenates. The results indicated that intraperitoneally injection of CCl4-induced severe kidney injury associated with oxidative stress by increased malondialdehyde (MDA), advanced oxidation protein product (AOPP), and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) levels and reduced the antioxidant defense system such as reduced glutathione (GSH), vitamin C (Vit C), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and glutathione-S-transferase (GST) compared with control group. The pretreatment with AHAE significantly restored the majority of these biochemical parameters to normal levels, as well as improved the histopathological changes compared with CCl4-treated group. The obtained results highlighted the potential use of AHAE as a source of bioactive compounds with pharmacological advantages.

Purpose Studies carried out on the exposure to toxic metals from smokeless tobacco (ST) products and their health effects are limited compared to particulate metal inhalation toxicology. This study aimed to investigate the oxidative stress and cytotoxicity induced by smokeless tobacco (ST), in the context of asthmatic pathology. Furthermore, we explored the preventive and ameliorating effects of oral administration of Nigella sativa oil (NSO) at a dose of 4 mL/kg/day in rats.Results Our results showed that ST clearly intensifies the oxidative stress state induced by Ova-challenge in rat. This has been shown by augmenting lipid peroxidation, protein oxidation and by altering the non-enzymatic and enzymatic antioxidant status. Besides, ST impairs the liver enzymes ASAT, ALAT, ALP, total proteins and albumin. Moreover, aggravation of inflammation and oxidative stress was demonstrated by the histopathological responses observed especially in the liver. Conclusion Our data indicate that acute concurrent exposure to allergen and ST enhances cytotoxicity and oxidative stress. In contrast, NSO administration has shown the recovery of the biochemical parameters in the liver and kidney, restoration of the antioxidant status, reduction of lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation. Finally, NSO treatment improved the histopathological alterations in liver and kidney.

Background: Nitrate (NO3) is the most common chemical contaminant in the world’s ground water aquifer. Oxidative stress has been proposed as a possible mechanism involved in NO3 toxicity on non-target organism. Objectives: The current study aimed to elucidate the potential protective effect of Telfairia occidentalis (pumpkin seed oil, PSO) against hepatotoxicity induced by sodium nitrate. Methods: Wistar rats were exposed either to NaNO3 (200 mg/kg bw) in drinking water in drinking water, or to 4ml PSO/kg bw by gavage or to their combination. Oxidative stress parameters, biochemical biomarkers and liver histopathological examination were determined. Results: Our data showed that the exposure of rats to NaNO3 caused significant changes of some haematological parameters compared to the control. In addition, there was a significant elevation of the levels of biochemical markers as that of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase and lactate dehydrogenase when compared with the control. Furthermore, exposure of rats to NaNO3 induced liver oxidative stress as indicated by the increase of malondialdehyde, pro- gressive oxidation of protein products and protein carbonyl levels. In addition, a reduction in anti-oxidant status (catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione-S-transferase and superoxide dismutase, reduced glutathione and vitamin C) was observed. Conclusion: Co-administration of PSO to the NaNO3 restored most parameters cited above to near-normal values. Therefore, the present investigation revealed the ability of PSO to attenuate NaNO3-induced oxidative damage. Keywords: Sodium nitrate; Telfairia occidentalis; pumpkin seed oil; hepatotoxicity; oxidative stress; protection; anti-oxidant status, rat.

This work focused on the one hand on the characterization of tomato by-products (Solanum lycopersicum L. 1753) and on the other; on the supplementation of tomato spent grain in the diet of Holstein breed cows and its effect on the volume and quality of milk. A comparative study between two lots; one contains dairy cows fed through a diet without tomato spent grain, the second batch fed with tomato spent grain. The physicochemical analyzes of tomato spent grain focused on the water content, dry matter, mineral matter, total proteins, fat, defatted matter, Phosphorus, Calcium and vitamins A and Vitamin E. We note that tomato spent grain is very rich in vitamin A and E as well as in calcium and phosphorus and that it also has a low fat and protein content. According to the results obtained, we notice an improvement in the following physicochemical parameters of milk: a significant increase (p < 0.001) in density which goes from 1026 ± 1.97 to 1028 ± 2.14, a significant increase (p < 0.01) in fat which goes from 40.74 ± 7.07 to 43.94 ± 8.45, and a significant increase (p < 0.001) of the dry extract which goes from 124.56 ± 11.31 to 148.7 ± 29.88. A significant increase (p < 0.001) in the average daily volume of milk is observed in the batch supplemented with tomato spent grain (13.73 ± 3.47 l/d) compared to the batch not supplemented with tomato grain (11.12 ± 3.00 l/d). The statistical study reveals that there is a relationship between the duration of supplementation and the continuous improvement of parameters: density (p < 0.001); dry extract (p < 0.001); degreased material (p < 0.001).

The present study focused on the protective efficacy of Allium sativum oil (ASO) against tebuconazol (TEB)-induced oxidative stress in the liver of adult rats. Thirty-two rats were randomly divided into four groups of eight each: group I served as control rats, group II was treated with TEB (100 mg/kg bw), group III received ASO (5ml/kg bw). The animals of group IV were treated with TEB and ASO, during 4 weeks. The obtained results showed that TEB induced a significant change of some hematological parameters, including red blood cells (RBC), haemoglobin content (Hb), haematocrit (Ht), white blood cells (WBC) and platelet (Plt) compared to the control group. Moreover, while the total cholesterol levels and the activities of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and γ-Glutamyltranspeptidase (γGT) significantly increased due to TEB administration, the concentrations of plasma total protein, albumin and triglyceride considerably decreased. Furthermore, the exposure to TEB significantly increased the malondialdehyde (MDA), protein carbonyl (PCO) and advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP) levels and decreased glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione-S-transferase (GST) activities in the hepatic tissues. The results were confirmed by the histological impairments. Besides, the co-administration of ASO improved the status of all studied parameters. Therefore, our investigation revealed that ASO had protective effects against TEB-induced liver injury, which could be attributed to its phenolic compounds.

The aim of the present work is to set up a production process of goat milk-based yoghurt. Six (06) kinds of yoghurt have been prepared: a mixed unflavored yoghurt with 50% cow & goat milk, a mixed flavored yoghurt with 50% cow & goat milk, an unflavored 100% goat-milk-based yoghurt, a flavored 100% goat-milk-based yoghurt, two types of 100% goat milk-based yoghurts supplemented with natural honey. Results of bacteriological analyses of finished products showed the total absence of pathogenic bacteria Staphylococcus aureus and salmonella as well as the indicator hygiene bacteria like the fecal and total coliforms. Sensory analyses revealed that 100% goat-milk-based yoghurts are always better appreciated in the other categories (flavored or unflavored) compared to 50% mixed yoghurts. Sensory analyses reported that yoghurts made with honey (HGM1 and HGM2) were richer in carbohydrates (10.5g) and in energy (89.1 kilocalories) against natural yoghurts and flavored yoghurts, which recorded a carbohydrate content of 5.3g and 68.3 kilocalories. The protein contents were assessed at 3.9g. Levels of lipids were at 3.5g together with amounts in minerals such like: calcium, phosphorous, potassium and sodium which reached respectively 168 mg, 114 mg, 203 mg and 58 mg.

This study is an attempt to characterize the chemical composition and antioxidant activity of olive leaves variety (namely Bouricha variety) that is very widespread in the East of Algeria. The aqueous extract (AE) of leaves was initially analyzed for its phenolic profile. Using the liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry analysis, it was possible to identify the predominant components in the AE of the leaves. This extract was hydrolyzed with acid and gave hydroxytyrosol (HT). AE and HT were evaluated for their 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging capacity, ferric reducing antioxidant power and total antioxidant activity by phosphomolybdenum method. The antioxidant and anti-asthmatic activities of these extracts were examined in a model of experimental asthma in Wistar rats. For measuring the intensity of the airway inflammation, oxidative stress parameters were analyzed in lungs and a histological study of this tissue was performed. The obtained results showed that the sensitization of the ovalbumin (OVA) group induced lung inflammation and severe lipid peroxidation (LPO) revealed by a significant increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and a decrease in the non-enzymatic and enzymatic antioxidant systems. However, the administration of AE and HT extracts significantly improved the antioxidant state in asthma disease and provided evidence for the relation between phenolic compounds and the high antioxidant activity of olive leaves extracts, especially HT more than AE.

The present study was undertaken to evaluate the protective effects of Linum usitatissimum oil (LuO) against sub-chronic Roundup (RDP)-induced toxicity and oxidative stress in rats. Rats were divided into four groups: control group (no treatment), RDP group (Roundup at 269.9 mg/kg b.w.), LuO group (0.5 g/kg b.w. of LuO) and RDP+LuO group (RDP and LuO simultaneously). LuO decreased the ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) (IC50=10.36 μg/ml) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) (IC50=22.85 mg/ml) in the tested tissues. The 30-day exposure of rats to RDP caused an increase in serum hepatic and renal markers: AST, ALT, ALP, LDH, γGT, bilirubin, urea, and creatinine. In addition, SOD, CAT and GST activities decreased by 43%, 61%, and 61%, respectively, while GPx activity, MDA and PCOs levels increased by 80%, 46%, 25%, respectively. LuO treatment alleviated hepatotoxicity in RDP-treated rats, showing improved levels of oxidative stress biomarkers and plasma biochemical parameters. The histological examination of the liver and kidney confirmed the changes in Roundup-treated rats and demonstrated the protective role of LuO.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the potential protective effect of Atriplex halimus aqueous leaves extract (AHAE) against acute carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced oxidative str...

Bisphenol A, an everywhere chemical, is applied as a plasticizer in polycarbonate plastics, which often used in our everyday products and in epoxy resins as protective coatings and linings for food and beverage cans for decades. Human exposure to BPA may lead to adverse effects by interfering with oestrogen receptors. Our present study was conducted to investigate the protective effects of selenium (Se) and vitamin E (Vit E) on BPA-induced damage in the liver of male rats. Animals were randomly divided into four groups: the first group received olive oil and served as control. The second group received both (Se + Vit E) (0.5 mg/kg diet; 100 mg/kg of diet). The third one treated orally by (10 mg/kg b.w.) of BPA. The last group received (Se + Vit E) (0.5 mg/kg diet; 100 mg/kg of diet) concomitantly with (10 mg/kg b.w.) BPA. Exposure to BPA for three weeks engendered a hepatic disorder. An increased AST and ALT enzymatic activity was noticed in BPA-treated group as compared to other groups. Furthermore, a change in glucose, cholesterol, LDL-C, HDL-C, albumin, and bilirubin level was remarkable. Moreover, exposure to BPA increased malondialdehyde levels while reduced gluthatione content was decreased in the liver homogenate. A decrease in glutathione peroxidase, glutathione s-transferase and catalase activities was observed in the same group. Administration of selenium and vitamin E through the diet in BPA treated rats ameliorated the biochemical parameters cited above. In addition, an improvement in activities of liver enzymes was recorded. The histological findings confirmed the biochemical results. The model of this study that we employed characterized the relationships between BPA-induced hepatotoxicity and its alleviation by natural antioxidants like selenium and vitamin E.

Chronic hyperglycemia and excess reactive oxygen species overproduced in diabetes were associated with oxidative stress, led to continuous injury and functions damage to different organs: eyes, kidneys, neural and cardiovascular system. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the protective effect of Artemisia herba alba (AHA) leaf powder against alloxane-induced oxidative damage in diabetic rats. Rats were randomly divided into four groups: Group I controls received saline solution 9%; Group II was treated with 150 mg alloxane/(kg body weight) administered by intraperitoneal. Rats of Group III have received saline solution and treated with 400 mg AHA/(kg body weight). Animals of Group IV were treated with alloxane and AHA. Alloxane exposure led to increased blood glucose, total cholesterol, triglycerides, malondialdehyde, and a decrease in the antioxidants enzymes activities (catalase, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione-S-transferase). Administration of AHA aqueous extract ameliorated these parameters. These results demonstrate that AHA ameliorates hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia and oxidative damage in alloxan-induced diabetes in rats.

Objective To investigate the antioxidant and hepatoprotective properties of Juniperus phoenicea (J. phoenicea) berries against CCl4-induced oxidative damage in rats. Methods Hepatotoxicity was induced in albino Wistar rats by single dose of CCl4 dissolved in olive oil (1 mL/kg BW, 1/1 in olive oil, i.p.). Aqueous extract of J. phoenicea berries (AEJP) was administered at the dose of 250 mg/kg/day by gavage for 12 days. Results Obtained results revealed that administration of CCl4 caused a significant increase in plasma ASAT, ALAT, ALP and LDH activities and total bilirubin concentration, compared to the control group. While, albumin and total protein concentration were significantly lower. Additionally, a significant decrease in the level of hepatic GSH, GPx and GST activities associated with a significant increase of MDA content in CCl4 group than those of the control. However, the treatment of experimental rats with AEJP prevented these alterations and maintained the antioxidant status. The histopathological observations supported the biochemical evidences of hepatoprotection. Conclusions The results of the present investigation indicate that J. Phoenicea possesses hepatoprotective activity and this effect was may be due to its antioxidant properties.

The aim of the present study is to highlight the kind of indoor aeroallergens and assess their role in asthma severity in children from Annaba city (Algeria). Our study concerned 68 asthmatic children and 50 healthy children. All children's blood samples were obtained to determine biological parameters, followed by home visit to these children to assess meteorological parameters and fungal exposure. It was found that the asthma severity was associated with eosinophilia (χ2, p = 0.01), rate of total IgE (χ2, p < 0.001) and sensitization to indoor aeroallergens. This association between the severity of the disease and sensitization was strengthened with the presence of mites (χ2, p < 0.01) and pets, namely cats (p < 0.001). Moreover, all houses of asthmatic children contain fungal spores, which were also associated with the sensitization to fungi (χ2, p < 0.001). The average indoor temperature and humidity in the houses of asthmatic children represent favorable conditions for the growth of mold and development of mites, whose presence, especially Cladosporium and Alternaria, was associated with sensitization to fungi and severity of asthma. The strongest sensitization was found with dust mites (Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, Der p1 (d1) and Dermatophagoides farinae, Der f2 (d2)) which is closely associated with asthma severity.

Context: To find bioactive medicinal herbs exerting anti-asthmatic activity, we investigated the effect of an aqueous extract of Urtica dioica L. (Urticaceae) leaves (UD), the closest extract to the Algerian traditional use. Objective: In this study, we investigated the in vivo anti-asthmatic and antioxidant activities of nettle extract. Materials and methods: Adult male Wistar rats were divided into four groups: Group I: negative control; group II: Ovalbumin sensitized/challenged rats (positive control); group III: received UD extract (1.5 g/kg/day) orally along the experimental protocol; group IV: received UD extract (1.5 g/kg/day) orally along the experimental protocol and sensitized/challenged with ovalbumin. After 25 days, blood and tissue samples were collected for haematological and histopathological analysis, respectively. The oxidative stress parameters were evaluated in the lungs, liver and erythrocytes. Then, correlations between markers of airway inflammation and markers of oxidative stress were explored. Results: UD extract significantly (p

The objective of this study was to investigate the protective effects of pomegranate (Punica granatum) juice (PGJ) on oxidative damages in liver tissue and erythrocytes of rats intoxicated by sodium fluoride (NaF). Rats were randomly divided into two groups: group I received standard diet and group II received orally 1 mL of PGJ. After 5 weeks of pretreatment, each group was divided again into two subgroups and treated for another 3 weeks as follows: group I was subdivided into a control group and a group that was treated with 100 ppm of NaF (in drinking water); group II was subdivided into one group that was treated daily with both 100 ppm NaF and PGJ (1 mL orally) and one that received daily 1 mL of pomegranate juice. Exposure to NaF decreased hematological parameters, changed the total protein, albumin, bilirubin levels, and increased the activities of hepatic marker enzymes. We also noted an increase in lipid peroxidation contents, accompanied by a decrease of reduced glutathione levels. Antioxidant enzyme activities in both tissues were modified in the NaF group compared with the control group. However, the administration of PGJ juice caused an amelioration of the previous parameters. Our results indicated the potential effects of NaF to induce oxidative damage in tissues and the ability of PGJ to attenuate NaF-induced oxidative injury.

Introduction Le but de la presente etude est de determiner si l’administration de l’extrait de Borago officinalis (BO) a un effet protecteur contre l’inflammation des voies aeriennes dans un modele murin d’asthme. Methodes Un total de 21 rats de la souche wistar ont ete repartis en 3 lots : un lot temoin, un lot sensibilise a l’ovalbumine et un lot sensibilise a l’OVA et traite par l’extrait aqueux de BO (AqBO). Ce dernier a ete administre par voie orale du 1er au 23e jour. La numeration sanguine des leucocytes a ete effectuee dans le serum et le liquide bronchoalveolaire (LBA) et les parametres du stress oxydatif ont ete analyses via le dosage du malondialdehyde (MDA) (Esterbauer et al., 1992) et l’evaluation des activites enzymatiques de la superoxyde dismutase (SOD) (Beyer et Fridovich, 1987) et de la glutathion peroxydase (Gpx) (Flohe et Gunzler, 1984) dans les poumons. Resultats Le pre-traitement des rats sensibilises a l’OVA avec l’AqBO a entraine une reduction significative (p ≤ 0,05) de globules blancs dans le serum et dans le BAL. Ce traitement a egalement permis de diminuer significativement (p ≤ 0,01) la peroxydation lipidique au niveau des poumons et a permis d’augmenter (p ≤ 0,01) les activites enzymatiques de la GPx et de la SOD. Discussion L’utilisation de l’extrait de BO, riche en antioxydants, diminue l’effet inflammatoire de la sensibilisation et aboli l’augmentation des taux de radicaux libres. Borago officinalis aide donc au retour a la normale aussi bien en tant qu’anti-inflammatoire mais aussi en tant antioxydant. Conclusion La presente etude demontre les effets benefiques de l’AqBO sur la pathogenese de l’inflammation allergique des voies aeriennes pouvant ainsi apparaitre comme une categorie supplementaire d’agents pharmacologiques pour le traitement des maladies pulmonaires allergiques.

Asthma is a complex inflammatory disease which constitutes an important problem of public health. Indeed, it is the one of the chronic pathologies most frequent, with more than 300 million people reached in the world and recording more than 250000 deaths a year. In our present study, we selected an animal model of asthma that shows all the salient features of allergic airway inflammation in humans including increased Th2 cytokine levels in BALF, enhanced airway responsiveness, airway eosinophilic inflammation, and goblet cell hypertrophy and hyperplasia. Nigella sativa commonly known as black seed is an annual herbaceous plant belonging to the Ranunculaceae family. It has been widely studied for its pharmacological and therapeutic effects and shown to have extensive range of activities.

Background The comparison of smokeless tobacco (ST) exposure versus Ovalbumin (Ova) sensitized rats or asthmatic patients has hardly been studied in the literature. Thus, the present study aims to investigate the aggravation of inflammation, exacerbation of asthma, oxidative stress and cytotoxicity induced by ST. Methods ST was given at the dose of 40 mg/kg in an allergic asthma model in Wistar rats. Furthermore, the effects of oral administration of Nigella sativa oil (NSO), at a dose of 4 mL/kg/day, were investigated. Results The obtained results showed that ST clearly enhanced lung inflammation through interleukin-4 (IL-4) and Nitric oxide (NO) increased production. Actually, ST was found to intensify the oxidative stress state induced by Ova-challenge in rats, which was proven not only by augmenting lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation, but also by altering the non-enzymatic and enzymatic antioxidant status. Furthermore, the aggravation of inflammation and oxidative stress was obviously demonstrated by the histopathological changes observed in lung. In contrast, NSO administration has shown anti-inflammatory effects by reducing IL-4 and NO production, restoring the antioxidant status, reducing lipid peroxidation and improving the histopathological alterations by both protein oxidation and NSO treatment. Conclusions Our data have proven that severe concurrent exposure to allergen and ST increases airway inflammation and oxidative stress in previously sensitized rats. They also suggest that the oral NSO treatment could be a promising treatment for asthma.

To investigate the antioxidant and hepatoprotective properties of Juniperus phoenicea (J. phoenicea) berries against CClHepatotoxicity was induced in albino Wistar rats by single dose of CClObtained results revealed that administration of CClThe results of the present investigation indicate that J. Phoenicea possesses hepatoprotective activity and this effect was may be due to its antioxidant properties.

Background Our study aims to assess the importance of serum eosinophil cationic protein (ECP) levels as a non-invasive marker of bronchial hyperresponsiveness (BHR) in children with asthma, and may predict objectively the asthmatic severity and sensitivities. Methods This study, which was carried out on 75 asthmatic patients from a paediatric population (average age: nine years old, sex-ratio M/F: 1.64), is based on both interrogation conducted by the clinician and biological explorations, essentially serological testing of ECP and eosinophilia determination, as well as the measurement of serological IgE amounts. Results The analysis of the questionnaires and the biological results allowed us to evaluate the clinico-biological relations within this population. ECP, more than eosinophilia, proves to be a relevant marker of asthma severity (p Conclusion We were able to show that the evaluation of the serological levels of ECP seems to be a good biological marker of asthma.

The present work was undertaken to evaluate the protective effect of an aqueous extract of green tea (GT, Camellia sinensis) leaves against arsenic (NaAsO2)-induced biochemical toxicity and lipid peroxidation production in experimental rats. The treatment with arsenic exhibited a significant increase in some serum hepatic and renal biochemical parameters (alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, total protein, albumin, bilirubin, cholesterol, urea and creatinine). But the co-administration of GT has increased the level of plasmatic concentration of biochemical parameters. Exposure of rats to arsenic caused also a significant increase in liver, kidney and testicular thiobarbituric acid reactive substances compared to control. However, the co-administration of GT was effective in reducing its level. To conclude, our data suggest that arsenic exposure enhanced an oxidative stress by disturbing the tissue antioxidant defense system, but the GT co-administration alleviates the toxicity induced by arsenic exposure.

We determined blood levels of total and specific immunoglobulins E in a cohort of 75 asthmatic children at Annaba (mean age: 9 years, sex ratio M/F: 1,64). Analysis clinical investigation and biological results allowed us to estimate the clinico-biological relations in this population. We showed that: atopy based on family criteria was very frequent (74%); the symptoms of atopy associated with asthma were frequent for atopic children (96%) whose majority (46%) had severe asthma (grade 3) that required treatment. Sensitization to trophallergens was rare in this population and always associated with sensitizations to pneumallergens (acariens: 2/3; cockroaches: 50%). Sensitizations to pneumallergens seemed promoted by climatic conditions in the area of Annaba that increased the risk of developing allergic diseases.

The effect of the thyroid activity on the formation of lipid peroxidation and on liver and heart antioxidant enzyme activities was investigated in Wistar rats. Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism conditions were induced for five weeks by the administration of 0.05% benzythiouracile (BTU) and L-thyroxine sodium salt (0.0012%), in drinking water, respectively. No significant effect was observed on the rates of both lipid peroxidation and the vitamin E in hepatic and cardiac tissues of hypothyroidism rats compared to the controls, contrary to the hyperthyroidism rats, which expressed a pronounced increase. The increased glutathione peroxidase activity in rats suffering from hyperthyroidism was associated with a fall of the reduced glutathione in the homogenate and a marked increase in the glutathione reductase activity. An increase in superoxide dismutase and catalase activities was also recorded in hyperthyroidism. Our results explain the thyroid activity variation in relation to the lipid peroxidation and the tissular contents of the enzymatic and the non-enzymatic antioxidants. To conclude, our results show the occurrence of a state of oxidizing stress in relation to hyperthyroidism.

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of a sub-acute 4-week exposure to methidathion (MD) on the hematological system and hepatic integrity of rats. We also assessed whether co-administration of micronutrients such as selenium (Se) and zinc (Zn) prevented MD-induced hepatic damage. Rats were randomly divided into four groups of six each: the first group served as a control which received standard diet, the second group received both Se (0.5mg/kg of diet) and Zn (0.227 g/l drinking water), the third group received only MD (5 mg/kg b.w. by gavage using corn oil as a vehicle), and the fourth group received MD and combined selenium and zinc. After four weeks, exposure to MD induced a significant increase in plasmatic activities of AST, ALT, ALP, LDH, and liver malondialdehyde level. In contrast, reduced glutathione level (GSH), and the activities of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and the glutathione peroxidase (GPx) content of hepatic tissue decreased significantly. Moreover, treatment with Se and Zn in MD-treated rats maintained all the biochemical parameters cited above. In conclusion, the obtained results indicate the ability of Se and Zn to attenuate the MD-induced liver and erythrocytes oxidative damage. Key words : Biochemical studies, liver, methidathion, oxidative stress, rat, selenium, zinc.

The present study was planned to investigate the protective effects of Nigella sativa oil (NSO) supplementation against aluminium chloride (AlCl3)-induced oxidative damage in liver and erythrocytes of rats. Simultaneously, a preliminary phytochemical study was affected in order to characterize the bioactive components containing in the NSO using chemical assays. The antioxidant capacities of NSO were evaluated by DPPH assay. The results showed that NSO was found to contain large amounts of total phenolics, flavonoids and tannins. Twenty-four rats were equally divided into two groups, in which group A received standard diet, whereas group B treated daily with an oral gavage dose of 2 ml NSO/kg body weight. After 5 weeks pretreatment, both groups were divided again into two subgroups (A and B) of six animals each and treated for other 3 weeks. Therefore, subgroup A1 was served as a control which received standard diet, but subgroup A2 received AlCl3 (34 mg/kg bw mixed with food). Subgroup B1 received both AlCl3 and NSO; however, subgroup B2 received NSO only. Results showed that AlCl3 exhibited an increase in white blood cell counts and a marked decrease in erythrocyte counts and haemoglobin content. Plasma aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, alkaline phosphatase and lactate dehydrogenase activities and total bilirubin concentration were higher in AlCl3 group than those of the control, while albumin and total protein concentration were significantly lower. Compared to the control, a significant raise of hepatic and erythrocyte malondialdehyde level associated with a decrease in reduced glutathione content, glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase and catalase, activities of AlCl3 treated rats. However, the administration of NSO alone or combined with AlCl3 has improved the status of all parameters studied. It can be concluded that AlCl3 has induced the oxidative stress, altered the biochemical parameters and the hepatic histological profile, but the supplementation of NSO has alleviated such toxicity.

Objective: Vanillin (Va), a phenolic substance is a natural antioxidant with proven free radical scavenging activity and offers protection against oxidative damage. This study was designed to investigate the ameliorative effect of Va against metribuzin (Mtz) pesticide-induced toxicity and oxidative stress in rats.Methods: Thirty-two rats were equally divided into four groups: control, vanillin (Va), metribuzin (Mtz) and metribuzin plus vanillin (Mtz+Va). Metribuzin (133.33 mg/kg, 1/20 LD50) was given to rats through their drinking water. Vanillin was supplemented (150 mg/kg) intraperitoneally for three weeks. At the end of experiments, various haematological and biochemical parameters were estimated. Antioxidant defence systems as GPx enzyme activities, GSH and MDA contents were determined in tissues as the indicators of oxidative stress.Results: Compared with the control, a significant decrease in the levels of red blood cells (p≤0.05), haemoglobin (p≤0.003) and hematocrit (p≤0.02) were noticed in the metribuzin-exposed group. The biochemical evaluation showed significantly higher values (p≤0.0001) for glucose, urea, creatinine and bilirubin. Also, Mtz treatment caused significant perturbations in lipids profile as plasma levels of total cholesterol (p≤0.0001) and triglycerides (p≤0.004). MDA levels increased in all the tissues of rats exposed to Mtz whereas the fluctuation in GPX enzyme activities and GSH levels were observed compared with controls. However, treatment with vanillin significantly normalised haematological profiles, serum biochemical profile and modulated all the oxidative stress parameters.Conclusion: The use of vanillin appeared to be beneficial to rats, to a great extent in attenuating and restoring the damage sustained by metribuzin exposure.

Methomyl (MET) is used worldwide in agriculture and health programs. Besides its advantages in the agriculture, it causes several toxic effects. The objective of this study was to examine the potential ability of vitamin C and/or selenium (Se), to alleviate the oxidative damage parameters, against MET-induced changes in blood biochemical markers and oxidative damage in liver and kidney of male Wistar rats. The animals were randomized into five groups of eight each: group I served as control rats; group II received MET (8 mg/kg body weight (BW)) in drinking water; group III received both MET and vitamin C (200 mg/kg BW; by intraperitoneal injection); group IV received both MET and Se (0.6 mg/100 g BW). Animals of group V were treated with MET, vitamin C and Se. A significant increase in the levels of hepatic markers enzymes (alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase and lactate dehydrogenase) was determined. Furthermore, renal markers such as urea and creatinine were increased in MET-treated rats. Additionally, serum cholesterol and triglycerides were significantly enhanced. Exposure of rats to MET caused significant increase in malondialdehyde levels, thus causing a drastic alteration in antioxidant defense system, particularly in the activities of catalase and glutathione- S-transferase and glutathione peroxidase. However, simultaneous supplementation with vitamin C and Se restored these parameters partially. In conclusion, the results of the current study revealed that MET-induced toxicity caused perturbations of some biochemical parameters, lipid peroxidation and alterations in the antioxidant enzymes in liver and kidney homogenates. Administration of vitamin C and Se exhibited protective effect by inhibiting MET-induced toxicity in liver and kidney.

Introduction Le but de ce travail est d’etudier l’effet anti-inflammatoire de Pistacia lentiscus dans un asthme induit experimentalement. Methodes Des rats mâles de la souche Wistar ont ete sensibilises avec l’ovalbumine (OVA) et parallelement traites soit a l’extrait aqueux (EA), soit a l’huile de lentisque (HL). Le dosage de l’IL-4 est realise par la methode Elisa Sandwich en phase solide (invitrogen) et le dosage des proteines totales est determine par la methode colorimetrique au Biuret. Ces deux parametres sont analyses au niveau serique et dans le liquide du lavage bronchoalveolaire (LBA). Resultats La sensibilisation a l’OVA provoque une augmentation significative et tres hautement significative des proteines totales seriques et dans le liquide du LBA (de l’ordre de 4,96 % et de 62,13 %, respectivement) par rapport au lot temoin. Cependant, l’administration de l’HL a montre une diminution significative de leurs taux (de l’ordre de 9,46 % et de 21,74 %, respectivement) par rapport au lot sensibilise (OVA). De plus, l’HL s’est revelee etre significativement plus efficace que son EA (p = 0,01). Nous avons aussi enregistre une augmentation significative du taux de l’IL-4 aussi bien dans le serum que dans le liquide du LBA (de l’ordre de 22,87 % et de 27,33 %, respectivement). Toutefois, les traitements, a l’HL et a son EA, indiquent une diminution de son taux par rapport au lot sensibilise. Cette diminution s’est revelee significative dans le serum lors du traitement a l’HL (p = 0,03). Discussion L’elevation du taux de l’IL-4 et des proteines provoquees par la sensibilisation a l’ovalbumine est resorbee par l’effet anti-inflammatoire observe aussi bien par l’huile que par l’EA de la plante. La richesse de cette plante en tanins, flavonoides et phytosterols serait probablement responsable de son effet anti-inflammatoire. Conclusion Ces resultats sont en faveur d’un effet anti-inflammatoire dont sont dotes les extraits (d’avantage huileux) de P. lentiscus.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the protective effects of vitamin E and/or curcumin against diazinon (DZN) (an organophosphorus insecticide)-induced toxicity of blood, liver and erythrocyte markers of male Wistar rats. The exposure of rats to DZN for 21 days provoked significant changes in red blood cell counts and hemoglobin. Results showed that lipid peroxidation increased significantly in DZN-treated rats, as evidenced by high liver and erythrocyte thiobarbituric acid reactive substance levels. Alteration of the antioxidant system in DZN-treated rats was confirmed by the significant decrease in the activity of catalase, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione- S-transferase, accompanied by a decline in reduced glutathione content in both tissues. On the other hand, a significant increase in the activities of plasma aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, lactate dehydrogenase and alkaline phosphatase was observed in the rats treated with DZN. However, the administration of vitamin E and curcumin has ameliorated the previous markers. In conclusion, our results indicate that the natural antioxidants like vitamin E and curcumin can effectively lower the erythrocytes and hepatic injuries induced by DZN as monitored by lipid peroxides, antioxidant enzyme activities and sensitive serum enzyme levels.

We determined blood levels of total and specific immunoglobulins E in a cohort of 75 asthmatic children at Annaba (mean age: 9 years, sex ratio M/F: 1,64). Analysis clinical investigation and biological results allowed us to estimate the clinico-biological relations in this population. We showed that: atopy based on family criteria was very frequent (74%); the symptoms of atopy associated with asthma were frequent for atopic children (96%) whose majority (46%) had severe asthma (grade 3) that required treatment. Sensitization to trophallergens was rare in this population and always associated with sensitizations to pneumallergens (acariens: 2/3; cockroaches: 50%). Sensitizations to pneumallergens seemed promoted by climatic conditions in the area of Annaba that increased the risk of developing allergic diseases.

The aim of this study was to determine whether the effects of thyroid dysfunction induce oxidative stress in the blood and heart of male Wistar rats. Rats were randomly divided into three groups: group I served as control rats. Group II was treated daily with 0.05% benzythiouracile (BTU) administered in drinking water. Rats of group III have received l-thyroxine sodium salt (0.0012%), in drinking water. The results showed that thyroid dysfunction rats had poor growth performance. On the other hand, in hyperthyroid rats, a marked decrease compared with control occurred of some hematological parameters such red blood cell number (RBC), haemoglobin (Hb) concentration and haematocrit (Ht). There was also a significant increase in erythrocyte numbers and heart TBARS concentrations in hypothyroid rats compared with control. These results were associated with a fall in the total antioxidant status (TAS) in the serum of the hyperthyroid rats. Alteration of the antioxidant system in the hypo-/hyperthyroidism-induced rats was confirmed by the significant increase of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities and a decline in glutathione (GSH) content in both tissues were detected in hyperthyroid group compared to controls. On the other hand, serum transaminase activities (aspartate transaminase (AST); alanine transaminase (ALT)) were elevated indicating hepatic cellular damage after treatment with exogenous L-thyroxine. Moreover, serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) and creatine phosphokinase (CPK) activities were increased in the hyperthyroidism rats. These results indicated that excessive thyroxin (long term) ingestion had an adverse effect on animal health and performance. We conclude that thyroid dysfunction induces oxidative stress and modifies some biochemical parameters of erythrocytes, heart and liver disease; our results show the occurrence of a state of oxidizing stress in relation to hyperthyroidism.

The present study was undertaken to evaluate the protective effect of selenium against arsenic-induced oxidative damage in experimental rats. Males were randomly divided into four groups where the first was served as a control, whereas the remaining groups were respectively treated with sodium selenite (3 mg/kg b.w.), sodium arsenite (5.55 mg/kg b.w.) and a combination of sodium arsenite and sodium selenite. Changes in liver enzyme activities, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) level, antioxidants and reduced glutathione (GSH) contents were determined after 3 weeks experimental period. Exposure of rats to As caused a significant increase in liver TBARS compared to control, but the co-administration of Se was effective in reducing its level. The activities of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and glutathione-S-transferase (GST) of As-treated group were found lower compared to the control and the Se-treated group. The co-administration of Se had an additive protective effect on liver enzyme activities compared to As-treated animals. On the other hand, a significant increase in plasmatic activities of AST, ALT and ALP was observed in As-treated group. The latter was also exhibited a decrease in body weight and an increase in liver weight compared to the control. The co-administration of Se has decreased the activities of AST, AST and ALP and improved the antioxidant status as well. Liver histological studies have confirmed the changes observed in biochemical parameters and proved the beneficial role of Se. To conclude, results suggest that As exposure enhanced an oxidative stress by disturbing the tissue antioxidant defense system, but the Se co-administration protected liver tissues against As intoxication probably owing to its antioxidant properties.

It has been reported that IL-27 specifically induces the production of IgG2a by mouse B cells and inhibits IL-4-induced IgG1 synthesis. Here, we show that human naïve cord blood expresses a functional IL-27 receptor, consisting of the TCCR and gp130 subunits, although at lower levels as compared to naïve and memory splenic B cells. IL-27 does not induce proliferative responses and does not increase IgG1 production by CD19(+)CD27(+) memory B cells. However, it induces a low, but significant production of IgG1 by naïve CD19(+)CD27(-)IgD(+)IgG(-) spleen and cord blood B cells, activated via CD40, whereas it has no effect on the production of the other IgG subclasses. In addition, IL-27 induces the differentiation of a population of B cells that express high levels of CD38, in association with a down-regulation of surface IgD expression, and that are surface IgG(+/int), CD20(low), CD27(high), indicating that IL-27 promotes isotype switching and plasma cell differentiation of naive B cells. However, as compared to the effects of IL-21 and IL-10, both switch factors for human IgG1 and IgG3, those of IL-27 are modest and regulate exclusively the production of IgG1. Finally, although IL-27 has no effect on IL-4 and anti-CD40-induced Cepsilon germline promoter activity, it up-regulates IL-4-induced IgE production by naive B cells. These results point to a partial redundancy of switch factors regulating the production of IgG1 in humans, and furthermore indicate the existence of a common regulation of the human IgG1and murine IgG2a isotypes by IL-27.

Introduction Le but de ce present travail est d’etudier l’effet de Pistacia lentiscus dans un asthme experimental. Methodes Cinquante-quatre rats Wistar ont ete repartis en : lot temoin, lot traite a l’extrait aqueux (EA) de lentisque (200 mL/kg/jour), lot traite a l’huile de lentisque (HL) (3,3 mL/kg/jour), lot sensibilise avec l’ovalbumine (OVA) melangee a l’hydroxyde d’aluminium (1 mg/mL), lot sensibilise et traite avec l’EA et un lot sensibilise et traite avec l’HL. Les parametres hematologiques, ceux de la croissance et les proteines totales (PT) ont ete mesures. Resultats La sensibilisation provoque une diminution du poids corporel ainsi qu’une augmentation significative ( p = 0,04) du poids absolu des poumons tout en augmentant les taux sanguins de cellules leucocytaires totales, des eosinophiles et des lymphocytes, respectivement de 141,61 %, 1466,97 % et 106,76 %. Des augmentations des taux de PT dans le serum ( p = 0,02) ainsi que dans le liquide broncho-alveolaire ( p = 0,0002) ont ete enregistrees. L’HL induit un regain dans le poids corporel avec un retour a la normale du poids absolu des poumons. De plus, l’EA induit une reduction hautement significative du poids absolu du foie ( p = 0,01). Il a egalement ete montre que l’administration de l’HL plus que son EA reduit significativement les taux cellulaires de 41,05 %. L’HL diminue considerablement les taux de PT seriques et dans le LBA (9,46 % et 21,74 %, respectivement). Discussion L’inflammation allergique, provoquee par la sensibilisation a l’OVA est resorbee par l’effet anti-inflammatoire observe aussi bien par l’HL que par son EA. La richesse de cette plante en tanins, flavonoides, phytosterols, ayant tous une activite anti-inflammatoire, serait en partie responsable de cet effet. Conclusion Ces resultats sont en faveur d’un effet anti-inflammatoire dont est dote Pistacia lentiscus , notamment sous forme d’huile.

Introduction Le but de la presente etude est de determiner si l’administration de l’extrait de Urtica dioica (UD) a un effet protecteur contre l’inflammation des voies aeriennes dans un modele murin d’asthme. Methodes Vingt et un rats Wistar ont ete repartis en : un lot temoin, un lot sensibilise a l’ovalbumine et un lot sensibilise a l’OVA et parallelement traite par l’extrait aqueux d’UD. La numeration sanguine des leucocytes et des lymphocytes a ete effectuee et les parametres du stress oxydatif ont ete analyses via le dosage du malondialdehyde [1] et l’evaluation de l’activite de la superoxyde dismutase (SOD) [2] et de la catalase (Cat) [3] . Resultats Le pre-traitement des rats sensibilises a l’OVA avec l’UD a entraine une reduction de 23,24 % du nombre de GB et une reduction significative (p ≤ 0,05) des lymphocytes. Ce traitement a egalement permit d’amoindrir la peroxydation lipidique au niveau des poumons de 14,86 % et d’augmenter les activites de la CAT et de la SOD de 10,87 % et 86,59 %, respectivement. Discussion L’exposition a l’ovalbumine, qui represente un facteur pro-oxydant, a induit une inflammation et une hyperreactivite bronchique, typiques de l’asthme bronchique humain, ainsi qu’un etat de stress oxydatif, de part la diminution de l’activite enzymatique et l’augmentation de la peroxydation lipidique. Cependant, l’utilisation de l’extrait d’UD, riche en antioxydant, diminue l’effet inflammatoire de la sensibilisation et aboli l’augmentation des taux de radicaux libres. Conclusion La presente etude demontre les effets benefiques de l’extrait d’UD sur la pathogenese de l’inflammation allergique des voies aeriennes pouvant ainsi apparaitre comme une categorie supplementaire d’agents pharmacologiques pour le traitement des maladies pulmonaires allergiques.