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Puerarin, an isoflavone, exhibits protective effects against liver damage. This study investigated the effects of puerarin on the growth, liver immunity, and antioxidant capacity of yellowfin seabream fed with oxidized fish oil. A total of 135 yellowfin seabream (13.00±0.05 g) were randomly divided into nine tanks (15 fish per tank), and fed with three types of diets for 56 days: a normal control fed with 6 % fresh fish oil (NC), an experimental control fed with 6 % oxidized fish oil (OFO), and a treatment fed with 6 % oxidized fish oil and supplemented with 400 mg/kg puerarin (OFP). Results showed, oxidized fish oil decreased the growth of fish, caused liver damage, and suppressed the fish's immunity. Compared to the NC group, the weight gain (WG) and specific growth rate (SGR) of the fish in the OFO group were significantly reduced; the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) in serum were significantly decreased; liver morphology showed loose cytoplasm with a large amount of fatty degeneration; the lysozyme (LZM) activity in serum and liver was significantly reduced. On the other hand, compared to the NC and OFO groups, the WG and SGR of fish in the OFP group were significantly improved. Additionally, compared to the OFO group, the serum SOD and liver CAT activities in the fish of the OFP group were significantly increased, and the MDA content in serum and liver was significantly reduced. The extensive fatty degeneration in the liver was alleviated. The LZM activity in the serum and liver of fish in the OFP group was significantly higher than that in the OFO group, returning to the levels of the NC group. Meanwhile, puerarin significantly enhanced the expression of Nrf2. In conclusion, puerarin alleviated the adverse reactions induced by oxidized fish oil and promoted the growth of yellowfin seabream.

Background: Liver is the largest abdominal viscera located in right hypochondrium, epigastrium and left hypochondrium in the abdomen proper. The present study helps radiologists in diagnosis and surgeons in preventing undue surgical complication. The most common causes for morphological variation of liver is embryological in origin. Aim: To determine gross anatomical variations of liver and its clinical importance. Materials and methods: A total of 50 formalin fixed cadaveric livers irrespective of the age, gender studied in the Department of Anatomy, Basaveshwara Medical College and Hospital, Chitradurga, Subbaiah Institute Of Medical Sciences Shimoga Karnataka. Morphological variationswere found in 34 cadavers. The preserved normal livers were studied under day light and photos were recorded. Results: 68%specimens had variations(34 out of 50). Accessory fissures were seen in 26 (52%) specimens, elongated left lobe in 8 (16%) specimens and lingular projection of left lobe in 6(12%) specimens. Ponshepatis observed in 5(10%) specimen. Hypertrophied papillary process was present in 4(8%)specimen. Conclusion: Knowledge of such morphological variations will help the anatomist, radiologists in better interpretation and also surgeons to plan for surgical procedures thereby preventing undue complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity has been on the rise worldwide and there is a need for restorative measures to counter its effect. Silymarin milk thistle is an herb that has been used for the treatment of liver conditions. This current study aimed at determining the restorative effects of silymarin milk thistle on the liver morphology and terminal body weight of paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity among albino rats. Methodology: This study was conducted at Maseno University, and a posttest-only experimental design was used. A total of 24 adult albino rats were randomly selected and grouped into four groups, each consisting of six albino rats. Positive control received (5 days of high-dose paracetamol 750mg/kbwt) and negative control received no drug intervention. Three experimental groups received high-dose paracetamol for five days and were thereafter given varying doses of silymarin milk thistle (low-dose group: 200 mg/kbwt, medium-dose: 400 mg/kbwt and high-dose: 600 mg/kbwt) of silymarin milk thistle. Gross liver morphological data and body weight were expressed as mean ± SEM. A one-way ANOVA analysis of variance was used to test the mean groups and a post hoc test was used to test the difference between the mean groups. A p ≤ 0.05 was found to have statistical significance at a 95% confidence interval. Results: This current study found that there was a significant (p≤ 0.0001) increase in mean weight, volume, length, and width of the liver in the high dose silymarin milk thistle group as compared to the positive control group. There was a significant (p≤ 0.0001) reduction in the terminal mean body weight of the rats in the positive control group, low dose silymarin group and the medium dose silymarin group respectively, as compared to the negative control group. Conclusion: Silymarin milk thistle was found to have restorative effects on the liver morphology and body weight following paracetamol toxicity at high dose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Ovarian cancer is the leading cause of death among all gynecological malignancies. Most patients present with an advanced stage of the disease. The routes of spread in ovarian cancer include peritoneal dissemination, direct invasion, and lymphatic or hematogenous spread, with peritoneal and lymphatic spread being the most common among them. The flow direction of the peritoneal fluid makes the right subphrenic space a target site for peritoneal metastases, and the most frequently affected anatomical area in advanced cases is the right upper quadrant. Complete cytoreduction with no macroscopically visible disease is the most important prognostic factor. Methods: We reviewed published clinical anatomy reports associated with surgery of the liver in cases of advanced ovarian cancer. Results: The disease could disseminate anatomical areas, where complex surgery is required—Morrison's pouch, the liver surface, or porta hepatis. The aim of the present article is to emphasize and delineate the gross anatomy of the liver and its surgical application for oncogynecologists. Moreover, the association between the gross and microscopic anatomy of the liver is discussed. Additionally, the vascular supply and variations of the liver are clearly described. Conclusions: Oncogynecologists performing liver mobilization, diaphragmatic stripping, and porta hepatis dissection must have a thorough knowledge of liver anatomy, including morphology, variations, functional status, potential diagnostic imaging mistakes, and anatomical limits of dissection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liver morphology, intensity of apoptosis, and activity of xenobiotic metabolism enzymes were studied in a chronic model experiment in rats receiving a mixture of 6 pesticides against the background of life-long diets with adequate and insufficient supply of water-soluble vitamins. The dose of each pesticide in the mixture did not exceed the acceptable daily intake (1 ADI). It was found that chronic exposure to low doses of anthropogenic toxicants in combination with permanent vitamin deficiency provokes a number of liver changes, such as increased apoptosis activity, cytochrome P450 system depletion, steatosis, and inflammatory infiltration, which is a potential health risk factor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The diet formulation for trout has changed dramatically over the last decade due to changes in the ingredient markets and advances in feed processing technology. The protein requirements of Oncorhynchus mykiss were established at the end of the last century, and it is unclear whether these requirements are applicable to modern dietary formulations. Therefore, an eight-week feeding trial was performed to measure the protein requirements of O. mykiss by evaluating growth, body composition, antioxidation property, innate immune response and liver morphology. The five experimental diets were prepared to contain the same levels of crude lipid (120 g/kg) and graded levels of crude protein (356.3, 383.9, 411.5, 439.2 and 466.8 g/kg). The results suggested that the growth, feed utilization and whole-body crude protein levels were significantly increased when fish were fed diets containing 439.2 and 466.8 g/kg crude protein. Meanwhile, low dietary protein levels (356.3 and 383.9 g/kg) significantly down-regulated the mRNA levels of insulin-like growth factor I, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, complement 3 and lysozyme, and also up-regulated the insulin-like growth factor binding protein 1 as well as proinflammatory cytokine expression in the liver, including interleukin 1β, interleukin 8 and tumor necrosis factor-α. Moreover, low dietary protein levels (356.3 and 383.9 g/kg) damaged liver structure, suppressed total antioxidative capacity and increased the malondialdehyde content in liver. In conclusion, high dietary protein (439.2 and 466.8 g/kg) promoted fish growth, while low dietary protein (356.3 and 383.9 g/kg) damaged liver structure, induced oxidative stress and inflammatory responses and weakened non-specific immunity. The protein requirement of O. mykiss reared in the convection-water cages is no less than 439.2 g/kg for optimal growth, antioxidant and immune properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Choline is an essential nutrient for dogs, and its dietary supplementation is usually made using choline chloride. However, this compound is highly hygroscopic—meaning it absorbs moisture from the air—which makes it difficult to manipulate during animal food production. Stable herbal additives rich in phosphatidylcholine may be used as an alternative source of choline. In light of this, this study compared the effects of an herbal source of choline with choline chloride on diet digestibility and palatability, blood metabolites, liver morphology, and cardiac function in adult dogs. Our results suggest that the herbal source of choline is a possible substitute for choline chloride in dog diets, in addition to reducing the activity of liver enzymes, total cholesterol, and serum triglycerides. This study is relevant to the pet food market since it concerns pet owners interested in natural alternative foods. We aimed to evaluate the effects of an herbal source of choline on the coefficients of total tract apparent digestibility (CTTAD), diet palatability, fecal characteristics, blood variables, liver morphology, and cardiac function of dogs. Sixteen adult dogs were randomly assigned to two groups (n = 8) which were fed two different diets for 45 days: control, containing 0.28% choline chloride 60, and test, containing 0.14% of an herbal source of choline. Feces were collected between days 39 and 44 to determine nutrient CTTAD and fecal characteristics. On days 0 and 45, blood samples were collected and the liver morphology was evaluated. Cardiac function, in turn, was evaluated only on day 45, and the palatability test was performed on two consecutive days (n = 32). There were no changes in nutrient CTTAD, diet palatability, or fecal characteristics of dogs fed the test diet (p > 0.05). However, on day 45, dogs fed the test diet showed lower (p < 0.05) serum total cholesterol, triglycerides, alkaline phosphatase, and alanine aminotransferase when compared to the control group. We concluded that the herbal source of choline can be a possible substitute for choline chloride in dog nutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Ovarian cancer is the leading cause of death among all gynecological malignancies. Most patients present with an advanced stage of the disease. The routes of spread in ovarian cancer include peritoneal dissemination, direct invasion, and lymphatic or hematogenous spread, with peritoneal and lymphatic spread being the most common among them. The flow direction of the peritoneal fluid makes the right subphrenic space a target site for peritoneal metastases, and the most frequently affected anatomical area in advanced cases is the right upper quadrant. Complete cytoreduction with no macroscopically visible disease is the most important prognostic factor. Methods: We reviewed published clinical anatomy reports associated with surgery of the liver in cases of advanced ovarian cancer. Results: The disease could disseminate anatomical areas, where complex surgery is required—Morrison’s pouch, the liver surface, or porta hepatis. The aim of the present article is to emphasize and delineate the gross anatomy of the liver and its surgical application for oncogynecologists. Moreover, the association between the gross and microscopic anatomy of the liver is discussed. Additionally, the vascular supply and variations of the liver are clearly described. Conclusions: Oncogynecologists performing liver mobilization, diaphragmatic stripping, and porta hepatis dissection must have a thorough knowledge of liver anatomy, including morphology, variations, functional status, potential diagnostic imaging mistakes, and anatomical limits of dissection.

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of glutamine supplementation to soybean meal (SBM) diet in hybrid sturgeon (25.00 ± 1.00 g). Three diets, including fishmeal (FM) diet, SBM diet, and SBMG diet (glutamine addition to SBM diet), were formulated to feed sturgeons for 8 weeks. Growth parameters and muscular crude lipid content were reduced by SBM substitution, and were further increased in SBMG-diet group. In liver morphology detection, moderate lipid droplets accumulation in hepatocytes found in fish fed SBM diet were partially retrieved by glutamine addition. Hepatic gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis detected 156 up-regulated metabolites and 15 related KEGG pathways affected by SBM replacement. Glutamine addition resulted in 102 down-regulated metabolites, together with 9 KEGG pathways enriched. In liver transcriptome sequencing analysis, 1074 and 1564 differentially expressed unigenes (DEGs) were detected by SBM/FM and SBMG/SBM pairwise comparisons, respectively. The least number of DEGs (143) was present in pairwise comparison of SBMG /FM. Our results indicated that glutamine addition attenuated the SBM-based negative effect including growth retardation, and muscle proximate composition alteration. Glutamine supplementation alleviated the liver damage caused by SBM substitution possibly through down regulating the elevated levels of metabolites or gene as well as related metabolic pathways.

The present study examined the effects of dietary lipid levels on growth performance, lipid deposition, oxidative stress and liver morphological changes in giant grouper, Epinephelus lanceolatus. Five isonitrogenous diets containing graded lipid levels (100, 125, 150, 175 and 200 g/kg diet) were applied to triplicate groups of grouper (mean weight: 17.59 ± 0.14 g) in a seawater recirculation system for 56 days. Dietary lipid levels from 100 to 200 g/kg exhibited no influence on weight gain, specific growth rate, protein efficiency ratio and feed efficiency of the fish. Grouper whole‐body and hepatic total lipid content, intraperitoneal fat ratio and oxidative stress (malondialdehyde content) increased linearly (p < 0.05) with escalating dietary lipid levels, reaching the highest values for a fish fed diet with 200 g/kg lipid content. In comparison with the observations in the liver of 100–125 g/kg lipid groups, the liver sections from the 175–200 g/kg lipid groups showed more numerous and larger vacuoles and the presence of round or elliptical hepatocytes. The results indicated that giant grouper could tolerate dietary lipid levels of up to 200 g/kg without exhibiting any negative impacts on growth performance in the 56‐day feeding trial. According to the results of intraperitoneal fat, hepatic lipid content, oxidative stress and liver morphology, a dietary lipid level no higher than 150 g/kg is recommended for this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Liver is divided into four anatomical lobes presenting minor fissures and invisible major fissures. The prevalence of Accessory Fissures in liver ranges widely from 6 to 94%. The morphometric analysis of individual lobes is also scarce in literature. There have been instances where the surgeon has experienced some of these variations as a surprise during surgery as the existing data on the surface variations of liver is still contradictory. A sound knowledge of these variations would aid the surgeons and radiologists to circumvent the misdiagnosis and complications during surgeries. Methods: The study was conducted in 93 cadaveric livers. Minor liver fissures, Accessory fissures and lobes were noted and measured. The livers were classified according to the Netter's classification. The morphology of caudate and quadrate lobes was studied. Any other variations in the appearance of groove for Inferior vena cava, gall bladder and its fossa were also studied. The results are tabulated. Results: The study revealed several variations in the morphological features of liver. Accessory fissures were noted in 51.61% of livers, distributed on various liver surfaces. Accessory lobes were noted in 27.9%. Pons hepatis was present in 22.5%. Gall bladder variations that were noted include the Hartmann's pouch (n = 14; 15.05%) and the Phrygian cap (n = 2; 2.15%). 65.6% livers (n = 61) had the sulcus of the caudate process or fissure of Gans or Rouviere sulcus which is a normal fissure present in majority of normal healthy livers. Conclusion: The current study provides a complete understanding and a thorough knowledge of surface morphological variations in liver. We hope that this will be greatly helpful for surgeons and radiologists to avoid possible errors in interpretations, to plan appropriately and assist during liver surgeries and to do radiological interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to investigate the influence of Thiocetam on morphological changes in the liver of rats and on biochemical changes in their blood after exposure to lead nanoparticles and compounds. The liver is an organ that performs a number of functions, such as the synthesis of enzymes, hormones, plasma components and the neutralization of toxins. It is involved in many metabolic processes in the body.

The diet formulation for trout has changed dramatically over the last decade due to changes in the ingredient markets and advances in feed processing technology. The protein requirements of Oncorhynchus mykiss were established at the end of the last century, and it is unclear whether these requirements are applicable to modern dietary formulations. Therefore, an eight-week feeding trial was performed to measure the protein requirements of O. mykiss by evaluating growth, body composition, antioxidation property, innate immune response and liver morphology. The five experimental diets were prepared to contain the same levels of crude lipid (120 g/kg) and graded levels of crude protein (356.3, 383.9, 411.5, 439.2 and 466.8 g/kg). The results suggested that the growth, feed utilization and whole-body crude protein levels were significantly increased when fish were fed diets containing 439.2 and 466.8 g/kg crude protein. Meanwhile, low dietary protein levels (356.3 and 383.9 g/kg) significantly down-regulated the mRNA levels of insulin-like growth factor I, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, complement 3 and lysozyme, and also up-regulated the insulin-like growth factor binding protein 1 as well as proinflammatory cytokine expression in the liver, including interleukin 1β, interleukin 8 and tumor necrosis factor-α. Moreover, low dietary protein levels (356.3 and 383.9 g/kg) damaged liver structure, suppressed total antioxidative capacity and increased the malondialdehyde content in liver. In conclusion, high dietary protein (439.2 and 466.8 g/kg) promoted fish growth, while low dietary protein (356.3 and 383.9 g/kg) damaged liver structure, induced oxidative stress and inflammatory responses and weakened non-specific immunity. The protein requirement of O. mykiss reared in the convection-water cages is no less than 439.2 g/kg for optimal growth, antioxidant and immune properties.

We aimed to evaluate the effects of an herbal source of choline on the coefficients of total tract apparent digestibility (CTTAD), diet palatability, fecal characteristics, blood variables, liver morphology, and cardiac function of dogs. Sixteen adult dogs were randomly assigned to two groups (n = 8) which were fed two different diets for 45 days: control, containing 0.28% choline chloride 60, and test, containing 0.14% of an herbal source of choline. Feces were collected between days 39 and 44 to determine nutrient CTTAD and fecal characteristics. On days 0 and 45, blood samples were collected and the liver morphology was evaluated. Cardiac function, in turn, was evaluated only on day 45, and the palatability test was performed on two consecutive days (n = 32). There were no changes in nutrient CTTAD, diet palatability, or fecal characteristics of dogs fed the test diet (p > 0.05). However, on day 45, dogs fed the test diet showed lower (p < 0.05) serum total cholesterol, triglycerides, alkaline phosphatase, and alanine aminotransferase when compared to the control group. We concluded that the herbal source of choline can be a possible substitute for choline chloride in dog nutrition.

The liver as the largest organ in the human body is composed of a complex macroscopic and microscopic architecture that supports its indispensable function to maintain physiological homeostasis. Optical imaging of the human liver is particularly challenging because of the need to cover length scales across 7 orders of magnitude (from the centimeter scale to the nanometer scale) in order to fully assess the ultrastructure of the entire organ down to the subcellular scale and probe its physiological function. This task becomes even more challenging the deeper within the organ one hopes to image, because of the strong absorption and scattering of visible light by the liver. Here, we demonstrate how optical imaging methods utilizing highly specific fluorescent labels, as well as label-free optical methods can seamlessly cover this entire size range in excised, fixed human liver tissue and we exemplify this by reconstructing the biliary tree in three-dimensional space. Imaging of tissue beyond approximately 0.5 mm length requires optical clearing of the human liver. We present the successful use of optical projection tomography and light-sheet fluorescence microscopy to derive information about the liver architecture on the millimeter scale. The intermediate size range is covered using label-free structural and chemically sensitive methods, such as second harmonic generation and coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering microscopy. Laser-scanning confocal microscopy extends the resolution to the nanoscale, allowing us to ultimately image individual liver sinusoidal endothelial cells and their fenestrations by super-resolution structured illumination microscopy. This allowed us to visualize the human hepatobiliary system in 3D down to the cellular level, which indicates that reticular biliary networks communicate with portal bile ducts via single or a few ductuli. Non-linear optical microscopy enabled us to identify fibrotic regions extending from the portal field to the parenchyma, along with microvesicular steatosis in liver biopsies from an older patient. Lastly, super-resolution microscopy allowed us to visualize and determine the size distribution of fenestrations in human liver sinusoidal endothelial cells for the first time under aqueous conditions. Thus, this proof-of-concept study allows us to demonstrate, how, in combination, these techniques open up a new chapter in liver biopsy analysis.

The liver as the largest organ in the human body is composed of a complex macroscopic and microscopic architecture that supports its indispensable function to maintain physiological homeostasis. Optical imaging of the human liver is particularly challenging because of the need to cover length scales across 7 orders of magnitude (from the centimeter scale to the nanometer scale) in order to fully assess the ultrastructure of the entire organ down to the subcellular scale and probe its physiological function. This task becomes even more challenging the deeper within the organ one hopes to image, because of the strong absorption and scattering of visible light by the liver. Here, we demonstrate how optical imaging methods utilizing highly specific fluorescent labels, as well as label-free optical methods can seamlessly cover this entire size range in excised, fixed human liver tissue and we exemplify this by reconstructing the biliary tree in three-dimensional space. Imaging of tissue beyond approximately 0.5 mm length requires optical clearing of the human liver. We present the successful use of optical projection tomography and light-sheet fluorescence microscopy to derive information about the liver architecture on the millimeter scale. The intermediate size range is covered using label-free structural and chemically sensitive methods, such as second harmonic generation and coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering microscopy. Laser-scanning confocal microscopy extends the resolution to the nanoscale, allowing us to ultimately image individual liver sinusoidal endothelial cells and their fenestrations by super-resolution structured illumination microscopy. This allowed us to visualize the human hepatobiliary system in 3D down to the cellular level, which indicates that reticular biliary networks communicate with portal bile ducts via single or a few ductuli. Non-linear optical microscopy enabled us to identify fibrotic regions extending from the portal field to the parenchyma, along with microvesicular steatosis in liver biopsies from an older patient. Lastly, super-resolution microscopy allowed us to visualize and determine the size distribution of fenestrations in human liver sinusoidal endothelial cells for the first time under aqueous conditions. Thus, this proof-of-concept study allows us to demonstrate, how, in combination, these techniques open up a new chapter in liver biopsy analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: In this work, we aimed to evaluate the effects of the Leishmania infantum chagasi infection on the liver of vaccinated mice, considering parameters of tissue damage and the inflammatory response elicited by vaccination. Main methods: We used recombinant LPG3 protein (rLPG3) as immunogen in BALB/c mice before challenge with promastigote forms of L. infantum chagasi. The animals were separated into five groups: NI: non-infected animals; NV: non-vaccinated; SAP: treated with saponin; rLPG3: immunized with rLPG3; rLPG3 + SAP: immunized with rLPG3 plus SAP. The experiment was conducted in replicate, and the vaccination protocol consisted of three subcutaneous doses of rLPG3 (40 μg + two boosters of 20 μg). The mice were challenged two weeks after the last immunization. Key findings: Our results showed that rLPG3 + SAP immunization decreased the parasite burden in 99 %, conferring immunological protection in the liver of the infected animals. Moreover, the immunization improved the antioxidant defenses, increasing CAT and GST activity, while reducing the levels of oxidative stress markers, such as H2O2 and NO3/NO2, and carbonyl protein in the organ. As a consequence, rLPG3 + SAP immunization preserved tissue integrity and reduced the granuloma formation, inflammatory infiltrate and serum levels of AST, ALT, and ALP. Significance: Taken together, these results showed that rLPG3 vaccine confers liver protection against L. infantum chagasi in mice, while maintaining the liver tissue protected against the harmful inflammatory effects caused by the vaccine followed by the infection.

A study was conducted to characterize the effects of dietary oxidized fish oil on the growth performance, immunity and antioxidant status of genetically improved farmed tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and to determine the role of ferulic acid on the oxidative damage induced by the oxidized fish oil. The tilapia (13.73 ± 0.31 g) were fed four experimental diets containing untreated (peroxide value, POV: 2.2 meq/kg) and highly oxidized (POV: 120.6 meq/kg) fish oil either with or without ferulic acid (0 or 400 mg/kg) supplementation for 12 weeks. From the results, the oxidized fish oil treatments increased antioxidant enzyme activities and MDA values but decreased the weight gain and the immunological parameters in tilapia. Meanwhile, the serum biochemical indices were significantly affected by the oxidized fish oil. Besides, the addition of ferulic acid partially counteracted the free radical‐induced damage and improved the health status of tilapia. In conclusion, the oxidized fish oil may induce oxidative stress, destroy liver, dysregulate lipid metabolism as well as reduce non‐specific immunity, and eventually result in growth inhibition of tilapia. The ferulic acid supplementation partially offset the negative effects of the oxidized fish oil on tilapia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The spleen presents numerous functions, including the production of immunoglobulins and blood filtration, removing microorganisms and cellular debris. The spleen also has anatomical and functional relationship with the liver, but there are few studies on this topic. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of splenectomy and autologous spleen transplantation on both filtering functions of spleen and acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity. Materials and Methods: Fifty-two BALB/c mice were randomized into four groups: splenectomized; splenectomy and splenic autotransplantation in the greater omentum; sham operated control; and non-operated control. At day 7th, 14th, and 28th after surgery, splenic filtration was assessed by counting Howell-Jolly bodies (HJB) and pitted red cells (PIT). The animals received 400 mg/kg acetaminophen by gavage at day 28th and after 12 or 24 hours were euthanized for evaluation of splenic and hepatic morphology. Results: The splenectomized group demonstrated reduced filtration of HJB and PIT in all analyzes, while the autotransplanted group developed progressive recovery of function after the 14th day. At day 28 after surgery the implants showed similar histology in comparison to normal spleen. Liver histology showed more intense centrilobular necrosis in splenectomized group in comparison to the others, suggesting a protective role of spleen in acetaminophen-induced liver injury. Conclusions: Splenic implants showed structural and functional recovery, demonstrating the ability of autologous implant to rescue filtering function of intact spleen. Furthermore, the integrity of splenic function appears to influence liver morphology, since the presence of the splenic implants mitigated the effects of chemically-induced liver damage.

Sclerosing cholangitis is the liver disease of uncertain etiology, extremely unfavorable prognosis and lack of effective medication therapy. Therefore, the effect of water-soluble biocompatible C60 fullerenes (C60FAS) on the liver functional state on rat acute-cholangitis model was aimed to be discovered. Acute cholangitis was simulated by single α-naphthyl isothiocyanate (ANIT, 100 mg/kg) per os administration; C60FAS (0.5 mg/kg) was administered either per os or intraperitoneally in 24 and 48 h after ANIT ingestion, and in 72 h the animals were sacrificed. The activities of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), the total and direct bilirubin, creatinine and urea in the blood serum were determined, and the liver morphological state was assessed. In animals experienced ANIT-induced acute cholangitis, the total and direct bilirubin, creatinine, ALT, AST, ALP and LDH 1.5–4-fold increase were observed, indicating cytolysis of hepatocytes, cholestasis, and renal dysfunction. The features of periductal fibrosis, biliary epithelium atrophy, and portal–portal linking septa formation were detected, confirming the sclerosing cholangitis development. C60FAS promoted to the normalization of direct and total bilirubin levels, the ALT activity and diminution of fibrotic features. In addition, C60FAS intraperitoneal administration also normalized the ALP activity, indicating the attenuation of disease symptoms. However, the AST activity and creatinine level remained unchanged, and the LDH activity even increased, manifesting the partial persistence of cholestasis and renal dysfunction. Thus, the therapeutic application of C60FAS promotes a partial protection of liver against cholangitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Growth performance, hepatic morphology and antioxidant ability, and expressions of antioxidant, inflammatory and apoptosis related genes were investigated in hybrid grouper fed high lipid diets containing 0, 0.5, 1, 2 and 10 g kg−1 Lycium barbarum extract (LBE) for 8-week feeding. The study showed that dietary LBE significantly increased weight gain rate (WGR) and specific growth rate (SGR) of fish (P < 0.05), the highest WGR and SGR were observed in fish fed 10.00 g kg−1 LBE diet. Dietary LBE improved liver morphology by decreasing hepatocyte necrosis and inflammatory cell infiltration induced by high lipid diets. Meanwhile, high lipid diets supplemented with 0.5–2 g kg−1 LBE improved hepatic antioxidant ability by increasing the expression of antioxidant genes (GPx and CAT) and decreasing Keap1 mRNA levels. Moreover, dietary supplementation with 0.50–2.00 g kg −1 LBE significantly decreased IL-8, caspase-3, caspase-8 and caspase-9 mRNA levels and significantly increased IL-10 and TGF-β1 mRNA levels in the liver of fish fed high lipid diets. In conclusion, high lipid diets supplemented with LBE improved growth performance, feed utilization and liver health in hybrid groupers by increasing hepatic antioxidant enzymes activity and its genes expression, as well as inhibition of hepatic inflammatory response and apoptosis. Highlights • Dietary Lycium barbarum extract (LBE) improved growth in hybrid groupers fed high lipid diets. • Dietary LBE improved hepatic morphology and antioxidant abilities in hybrid groupers. • Dietary LBE reduced inflammation and apoptosis in hybrid groupers fed high lipid diets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the research — to determine the features of morphological changes in the liver, depending on the therapy and duration of chronic hepatitis С. Methods of the Research. Morphological examination of 53 patients with varying duration and the natural course of chronic hepatitis C and 22 patients with different duration of chronic hepatitis С who received interferon therapy. Results of the Research. With increasing duration of chronic hepatitis С, the growth process of chronicity in the liver from low-grade to severe fibrosis was found. The most pronounced fibrotic changes were recorded in patients who are not prescribed interferon therapy. Antiviral therapy has had a significant positive impact on the reduction of indicators characterizing the activity and chronicity of hepatitis С, regardless of length of illness.

Abstract: Lead as any heavy metals may be found in soil, water, air, and is used in everyday life. Once in the body, it causes toxic effect, making the liver, which is one of the main organs of detoxification, suffer. Recently, the study of the action of not only ionic forms of lead, but also its nanoparticles, has become topical. The study aims at determining changes in the liver of rats and biochemical changes in their blood both at late term of exposure to nanoparticles of lead compounds and in the post‐exposure period. The study was performed on 120 male rats of Wistar line, which were divided into two series, each series containing four groups. The first and the second groups of animals were intraperitoneally injected with colloidal solution of nanoparticles of lead sulfide of 10 and 30 nm in size, and the third group were intraperitoneally injected with a solution of lead nitrate. The fourth group of animals served as control. In the first series, the investigated substances were administered 60 times within 12 weeks. In the second series, after 60‐fold administration of the investigated substances, the exposure was discontibued and animals were observed for 6 weeks—overall duration of 18 weeks. Histological, morphometrical and biochemical methods were used. The body weight was reduced in the rats exposed to PbSnano1 at week 12 of experiment and in rats exposed to both PbSnano1 and Pb(NO3)2 in the second series. Absolute liver weight increased at week 12 of experiment in all experimental groups. In the second series this value almost reached that of the control level. Relative liver weight in the animals of all experimental groups was higher than that in the control at week 12 of experiment. In the second series this value remained higher in rats exposed to PbSnano1. After 12 weeks of exposure dystrophic changes in the liver were found in all experimental groups. At week 6 after the exposure (the second series) destructive changes in the liver decreased. Total protein, albumin, glucose, total lipids, cholesterol, triglycerides content in blood serum corresponded with morphological data. The experiment has demonstrated that the 12 weeks long exposure to lead nanoparticles had harmful effect on the liver. Within the postexposure 6‐weeks period structural changes in the liver and biochemical changes in blood serum decreased. Biochemical changes in blood serum corresponded to the morphological data. By many parameters PbSnano1 had more pronounced harmful effect. Toxicity of PbSnano2 and Pb(NO3)2 were comparable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The spleen presents numerous functions, including the production of immunoglobulins and blood filtration, removing microorganisms and cellular debris. The spleen also has anatomical and functional relationship with the liver, but there are few studies on this topic. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of splenectomy and autologous spleen transplantation on both filtering functions of spleen and acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity.Materials and Methods: Fifty-two BALB/c mice were randomized into four groups: splenectomized; splenectomy and splenic autotransplantation in the greater omentum; sham operated control; and non-operated control. At day 7th, 14th, and 28th after surgery, splenic filtration was assessed by counting Howell-Jolly bodies (HJB) and pitted red cells (PIT). The animals received 400 mg/kg acetaminophen by gavage at day 28thand after 12 or 24 hours were euthanized for evaluation of splenic and hepatic morphology.Results: The splenectomized group demonstrated reduced filtration of HJB and PIT in all analyzes, while the autotransplanted group developed progressive recovery of function after the 14th day. At day 28 after surgery the implants showed similar histology in comparison to normal spleen. Liver histology showed more intense centrilobular necrosis in splenectomized group in comparison to the others, suggesting a protective role of spleen in acetaminophen-induced liver injury.Conclusions: Splenic implants showed structural and functional recovery, demonstrating the ability of autologous implant to rescue filtering function of intact spleen. Furthermore, the integrity of splenic function appears to influence liver morphology, since the presence of the splenic implants mitigated the effects of chemically-induced liver damage. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the combination of maximum replacement of fishmeal (FM) and fish oil (FO) by alternative meals (AM) and oils (AO) to develop nutritious, but more eco-friendly diets for European sea bass ( Dicentrarchus labrax ) juveniles. European sea bass of 9.8 ± 1.5 g and 9.1 ± 0.5 cm were fed nine isonitrogenous (45% crude protein) and isolipidic (21%) diets containing gradually reduced levels of FM and FO as follows (%FM/%FO): 58/15, 20/6, 20/3, 10/6, 10/3, 5/6, 5/3 and 0/0. Another diet, 0/0 + , was similar to the 0/0 but supplemented with LC-PUFA from microbial and marine sources. After 90 days of feeding, European sea bass fed the 0/0 diet showed reduced (P < 0.05) final weight, final length, condition factor, perivisceral fat index and viscero-somatic index as well as feed efficiency, whereas addition of LC-PUFA significantly improved daily growth index (DGI) (0/0 + diet). Reduction of FM/FO down to 5/3 did not significantly affect fish survival or condition factor, whereas reduction to 5/6 did neither affect sea bass length or feed conversion and reduction down to 10/3 did not affected body weight, DGI and perivisceral fat or visceral weight. FM reductions down to 5% significantly reduced growth rate. FO substitution by vegetable oils (VO) led to reduced growth and increased liver to body weight ratios, liver lipid deposition and hepatocellular size. In liver and muscle, FO substitution increased n-6 fatty acids (FA) and n-6/n-3 ratio and reduced saturated FA and n-3 LC-PUFA, whereas monounsaturated FA were not increased in proportion to dietary contents. Moreover, FO reduction increased the products from Δ6 desaturase and elongases, Elovl6 and Elovl5. In conclusion, the results of this study show that it is possible to reduce dietary FM and FO levels down to 10% and 3% in mostly plant-based diets without affecting growth performance of European sea bass juveniles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and study aims The complex series of deleterious events among diabetes patients leads to multiple organ failure. Therefore, a holistic approach of treatment is urgently required to prevent worsening of complications. The present investigation was carried out to study the possible protective effects of Roselle or Hibiscus sabdariffa Linn (HSL) calyxes aqueous extract, as an antidiabetic and antioxidant agent against oxidative liver injury in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Material and methods A single dose of streptozotocin (45 mg/kg body weight, iv) was used to induced diabetes in male Sprague Dawley rats which were then divided into two groups: Diabetic control (DC) and HSL-treated diabetic (DR) group. Normal rats were divided into normal control (NC), HSL-treated control (NR). Aqueous calyxes extract of HSL (100 mg/kg/day, orally) was given for 28 consecutive days in the treated group. Weight, biochemical and histopathological (light and electron microscopic) parameters were compared in all groups. Results Supplementation of HSL significantly lowered the level of fasting blood glucose and increased plasma insulin level in DR group compared to DC group (p < 0.05). Alanine aminotransaminases and aspartate aminotransferase enzymes level were found to be significantly reduced in DR compared to DC. Microscopic examination demonstrated destruction of the liver architecture, cytoplasmic vacuolation of the hepatocytes and signs of necrosis in diabetic rats. Moreover, dilatation and congestion of blood vessels with leucocytes adherence were detected. Ultrastructural study using electron microscope showed homogeneous substance accumulation in nuclear chromatin, a decrease of organelles and mitochondrial degeneration in the diabetic rats. Conclusion Administration of HSL in diabetic rats causes significant decrease in hepatocyte destruction and prevented the changes associated with the diabetic condition. Thus, our findings provide a scientific rationale for the use of HSL as promising agent in preventing liver injury in diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluates the effects of dietary mannan oligosaccharides ( MOS) on growth, tissue composition, fatty acid profiles and liver morphology of European sea bass ( Dicentrarchus labrax) fed diets containing either soybean oil ( SBO; SBOMOS) or fish oil ( FO; FOMOS) as unique oil source for 8 weeks. Results showed that MOS supplementation enhanced specific growth rate, regardless of the oil source used, and that dietary oil source reduced fish length, regardless of dietary MOS supplementation. Dietary MOS favoured lipid accumulation in muscle and anterior intestine when supplemented in FO-based diets compared to fish fed SBO diet and reduces it in liver in relation to lower hepatocyte area, particularly in fish fed SBOMOS diet. Dietary MOS favoured liver and not muscular ∑n-3 PUFA, DHA, EPA and ARA deposition, when combined with FO but not when included in SBO-based diets. Thus, MOS dietary supplementation favours fish performance and helps to minimize the side effects derived from high dietary SBO supplementation on liver lipid accumulation and hepatocyte vacuolization, which could be of especial interest on long-term feeding trials; however, the effects on favoured deposition ∑n-3 PUFA are limited to FO-based diets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Cold liver preservation in the University of Wisconsin solution (UW) followed by reperfusion alters hepatic parenchyma and extra cellular matrix. In this study we analyzed the benefit of adding either 500 μM Sodium Nitroprusside (NPNa) or 100 μM S-nitrosoglutathione (GSNO) as Nitric Oxide (NO) donors to the UW solution to prevent hepatic injury. Wistar adult rat livers were stored in UW solution (0°C) for 48Hs and reperfused (60 minutes) in the isolated perfused rat liver model (IPRL). Untreated livers were used as normal controls. Livers perfused but not preserved were used as controls of reperfusion. Parenchyma damages were evaluated by Hematoxylin-Eosin stain. Picrosirius Red and Gordon-Sweets stains were used for collagen and reticulin networks, respectively. An inmunohistochemistry assay for albumin was used as functional test. Cold preservation step was followed by swollen hepatocytes with “light empty halos” surrounding the nucleus, conserved hepatocyte cords and many rounded endothelial cells. The addition of NPNa or GSNO into UW solution, avoid these alterations. Livers preserved for 48 Hs and then reperfused showed extended areas of vacuolation around central veins, and many endothelial cells were rounded and located inside sinusoidal lumens. The collagen network was disorganized while the reticulin one was less altered. Albumin was distributed preferentially in pericentral areas. On the contrary, livers preserved in presence of NPNa or GSNO did not show vacuolation and both collagen and reticulin networks were unchanged. Albumin was more homogeneously distributed in both groups. In conclusion, the addition of 500 μ NPNa or 100 μ GSNO as a NO donor, improves UW solution properties to preserve rat livers by maintaining the hepatic morphology and avoiding hepatic injury post-cold preservation/reperfusion.

One of the principles of prevention and non-medicamentous treatment of liver diseases, including hepatitis of different etiology, is the normalization of the diet through the consumption of food with physiologically active ingredients, in particular betulin, which helps to eliminate the causes of metabolic and oxidative disorders within liver cells. The aim of the research was to assess in vivo the influence of triterpene alcohol betulin extracted from Betula pendula Roth. birch bark in fat-containing products (for example mayonnaise) on the blood biochemical parameters and liver morphological structure of rats with initiated acute toxic hepatitis. Material and methods . Hepatoprotective and antioxidant activities of betulin as part of mayonnaise samples has been investigated in vivo on the model of toxic hepatitis initiated by carbon tetrachloride in male Wistar rats weighing 210-265 g. The animals were divided into 4 groups of 10 animals each: CG-1 - intact, CG-2 and MG - with carbon tetrachloride initiated toxic hepatitis. rats of the main groups were orally administered mayonnaise once a day at a dosage of 1 ml for 21 days after the formation of the model pathology: OG-1 with the added betulin (1 mg per 1 kg of body weight), OG-2 without betulin. Disorders of metabolic and oxidative processes in liver cells of animals were evaluated by biochemical indicators of blood plasma: the level of glucose, albumin, total cholesterol, triglycerides and urea and the activity of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase and γ-glutamyltransferase. Oxidative stress in rats was estimated by the activity of catalase and superoxide dismutase in blood hemolysate (at a dilution of 1:200 and 1:10, respectively); the total prooxidant (in blood plasma) and total antioxidant (in blood hemolysate at a dilution of 1:10) activity were determined spectrophotometrically (colored complexes of TWIN-80 oxidation products with thiobarbituric acid). The morphological structure of rats' liver was estimated by microscopy of prepared cuts of hepatic tissue. Results . Based on biochemical parameters of rat blood plasma, it has been established that the administration of mayonnaise with betulin prevents the development of cytolic syndrome and suppresses the process of peroxidation by directly neutralizing free radicals. Aspartate aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase activity in blood plasma of the experimental animals of the main group MG-1 reduced by 20.7 and 35.2% compared with indicators of the rats of the main group MG-2. Glucose concentration normalized to the level of the control group CG-1. The concentration of bilirubin and triglycerides decreased by 22.9 and by 48.1%, which indicates a significant reduction in the indicators of cholestatic syndrome in the group of animals OG-1 compared to OG-2. The total prooxidant activity and the concentration of thiobarbiturate-reactive products decreased compared to the CG-2 and MG-2 groups, which indicates the suppression of oxidative stress and, as a result, an improvement in liver conditions of animals with toxic hepatitis even when taking a fat-containing product. In liver histopeparates of animals receiving mayonnaise with betulin, necrobotic changes were less pronounced in comparison with the group MG-2. They were estimated at 1 point: small-drip dystrophy spots were found, haemorrhages in the interregional septum with inflammatory infiltration in the course of hemorrhages against the presence of necrosis hepatocytes with pronounced adipose dystrophy in the centres of the lobules, step necrosis with signs of replacing the damaged hepatocytes of the connective tissue, accompanied by centrolobular hemorrhages in MG-2 rats. Conclusion . Introduced into the composition of mayonnaise betulin, reduces the development of cytolic syndrome in toxic hepatitis and suppresses the process of peroxidation, on the basis of which fat-containing foods with betulin can be recommended for clinical examination as specialized products in acute and chronic liver diseases, including complicated cholestasis., Competing Interests: The author declares no conflicts of interest., (Copyright© GEOTAR-Media Publishing Group.)

Ayahuasca tea is employed in Xamanism, in anti-drug therapy and illicitly in hallucinogenic recreations. Current study assesses the liver histologically and biochemically since it is an organ involved in the metabolism of the tea. Twenty-four male adult Wistar rats were divided into two groups (control and treated). A daily dose four times higher than that used within a religious context was given, during four consecutive days. There was no qualitative morphological change but a reduction of hepatocyte volume and its nucleus occurred when the quantitative analysis of the treated group was performed. Biochemical analysis showed a decrease in gamma-glutamyltransferasis and Alkaline Phosphatase. There were no morphological alterations for dose and exposure time in current study. Morphometric analysis showed significant alterations in hepatocyte volume and its nucleus where a decrease in volume of the treated group occurred when compared to that of control. A significant statistical decrease was detected in the gamma-glutamyl-transferasis and alkaline phosphatase parameters. Current analysis also detected a decrease in hepatocyte volume without alterations in hepatic functions and structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To compare accuracy of morphological features of liver on MRI and liver stiffness with MR elastography (MRE) for detection of significant liver fibrosis and cirrhosis. Materials and methods: In this retrospective study, we evaluated 62 patients who underwent liver MRI with MRE and histological confirmation of liver fibrosis within 6 months. Two radiologists, blinded to histology results, independently evaluated liver parenchyma texture, surface nodularity, signs of volumetric changes, and portal hypertension for presence of significant fibrosis and cirrhosis. Two more readers independently calculated mean liver stiffness values with MRE. Interobserver agreement was evaluated with kappa and intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) analysis. Diagnostic accuracy was assessed with area under receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) analysis. Comparison of AUROCs of MRI and MRE was performed. Results: Liver fibrosis was present in 37 patients. The interobserver agreement was poor to good ( κ = 0.12-0.74) for MRI features and excellent for MRE (ICC 0.97, 95% CI 0.95-0.98). MRI features had 48.5%-87.9% sensitivity, 55.2%-100% specificity, and 71.5%-81.6% accuracy/for detection of significant fibrosis. MRE performed better with 100% sensitivity, 96.5% specificity, and 98.9% accuracy. For the detection of cirrhosis, MRE performed better than MRI features with 88.2% sensitivity (vs. 41.2%-82.3%), 91.1% specificity (vs. 64.4%-95.6%), and 93.5% accuracy (vs. 60.6%-80.5%). Among the MRI features, surface nodularity and overall impression had the best accuracies of 80.3% and 81.6% for detection of significant fibrosis, respectively. For cirrhosis, parenchyma texture and overall impression had the best accuracies of 80.5% and 79.7%, respectively. Overall, MRE had significantly greater AUROC than MRI features for detection of both significant fibrosis (0.98.9 vs 0.71-0.82, P < 0.001) and cirrhosis (0.93.5 vs. 0.61-0.80.5, P < 0.01). Conclusion: MRE is superior to MRI for the non-invasive diagnosis of significant liver fibrosis and cirrhosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]