Effect of oral administration of Arabic gum on cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats

Nephroprotective effects of Acacia senegal against aflatoxicosis via targeting inflammatory and apoptotic signaling pathways

Aflatoxin B₁ (AFB1) is a common environmental pollutant that poses a major hazard to both humans and animals. Acacia senegal (Gum) is well-known for having antioxidant and anti-inflammatory bioactive compounds. Our study aimed to scout the nephroprotective effects of Acacia gum (Gum) against AFB1-induced renal damage. Four groups of rats were designed: Control, Gum (7.5 mg/kg), AFB1 (200 µg/kg b.w) and AFB1-Gum, rats were co-treated with both Gum and AFB1. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS) analysis was done to determine the phytochemical constituents in Gum. AFB1 triggered profound alterations in kidney function parameters (urea, creatinine, uric acid, and alkaline phosphatase) and renal histological architecture. Additionally, AFB1 exposure evoked up-regulation of mRNA expression levels of inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and nuclear factor kB p65 (NF-κB/P65) in renal tissue. The oxidative distress and apoptotic cascade are also instigated by AFB1 intoxication as depicted in down-regulated protein expression of the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and superoxide dismutase type 1 (SOD1) along with upregulation of cytochrome c (Cyto c), and cleaved Caspase3 (Casp3-17 and 19) in renal tissue. In conclusion, current study obviously confirms the alleviating effects of Gum supplementation against AFB1-induced renal dysfunction, oxidative harm, inflammation, and cell death. These mitigating effects are suggested to be attributed to Gum's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Our results recommend Gum supplementation as add-on agents to food that might aid in protection from AFB1-induced nephrotoxicity.

Gum Acacia attenuates cisplatin toxic effect spermatogenesis dysfunction and infertility in rats

This study aimed to investigate the potential benefits Gum Arabic/Acacia senegal (GA) in mitigating the harmful effects of cisplatin (CP) on spermatogenesis and testicular health in male adult rats. A total of forty albino rats were used in the study and divided into four groups; control, GA, CP, and Co-treated group, which received both CP and GA concurrently. The results revealed that CP caused a significant increase in oxidative stress and a decrease in antioxidant activities (CAT, SOD, and GSH), which disturbed the testicular machinery. This caused significant histological and ultrastructural damage to the testicular structure, including atrophied seminiferous tubules with severely reduced germinal epithelium. Additionally, CP caused a decrease in reproductive hormones (testosterone and LH), a decline in nucleic proliferation PCNA immunoexpression, and an increase in cytoplasmic apoptotic Caspase-3 protein expression in testicular tissue, when compared to the control and GA groups. Moreover, the CP treatment impaired spermatogenesis and decreased sperm number and motility with abnormal morphology. However, co-administration of GA with CP mitigated the dysfunction in spermatogenesis and reversed testicular damage caused by CP through significantly (P < 0.01) reducing oxidative stress (MDA) and increasing the activities of CAT, SOD, and GSH. Additionally, co-administration of GA elevated the levels of testosterone and luteinizing hormone in blood sera, significantly (P < 0.01) improved the histometric measurements of seminiferous tubules diameter, their epithelial height, Johnsen's score of spermatogenesis, 4-level histological grading scale Cosentino's score, immunohistochemical expression of nucleic PCNA, and cytoplasmic Caspase-3 proteins. Furthermore, TEM examination confirmed the synergistic effect of GA in restoring the germinal epithelial cells ultrastructure, the elongated and transverse sections of spermatozoa in the lumen, and the interstitial tissue. All of these effects resulted in a significant improvement in sperm quality in the Co-treated animals compared with the CP group, as well as, a significant decline in the morphological abnormalities of sperm in Co-treated rats compared to those in the CP group. GA is a valuable agent for ameliorating chemotherapy-related infertility.

The effect of combining basil seeds and gum Arabic on the healing process of experimental acetic acid-induced ulcerative colitis in rats

Background & aim

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic recurrent inflammatory disease of the large intestine and rectum that oxidative stress and severe inflammation are the main features of this disease. Previous studies have shown that separate consumption of basil and gum arabic can reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. The aim of the study was evaluating the effect of treatment with basil seeds given together with gum arabic on healing, inflammation and oxidative stress in the course of experimental colitis in rats.

Experimental procedure

A total number of 50 male rats were used, randomly assigned to five groups of 10 rats each. Colitis was induced in rats by enemas with 4% solution od acetic acid. Four days after induction of colitis, rats were treated for next 4 days with saline or combination of basil seeds plus gum arabic (1 mg/kg) or sulfasalazine (100 mg/g) rectally. The experiment was terminated after last dose of treatment. Rats without induction of colitis were used as a sham group.

Results

Acetic acid-induced colitis increased the macroscopic and histopathological damage scores of the colon as well as colon levels of MDA(Malondialdehyde), MPO(Myeloperoxidase), TNFα(Tissue necrosis factor α), IL6 (Interleukin 6)and IL17(Interleukin 17) and decreased SOD(Superoxide Dismutase), GPx (Glutathione Peroxidase) and IL10 (Interleukin 10) levels compared with the control group(P < 0.001). Treatment with basil and gum arabic reduced macroscopic and histopathological damage scores (P < 0.01) of the colon, MDA, MPO, TNFα, IL6(P < 0.001) and IL17 (P < 0.01) levels of the colon and increased SOD, GPx and IL10 levels compared to the colitis group (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

Rectal administration of combination of basil seeds plus gum arabic after induction of colitis, exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, and accelerates the healing of the colon in experimental colitis evoked by acetic acid.

Arabic Gum Could Alleviate the Aflatoxin B1-provoked Hepatic Injury in Rat: The Involvement of Oxidative Stress, Inflammatory, and Apoptotic Pathways

Aflatoxin B₁ (AF) is an unavoidable environmental pollutant that contaminates food, feed, and grains, which seriously threatens human and animal health. Arabic gum (AG) has recently evoked much attention owing to its promising therapeutic potential. Thus, the current study was conducted to look into the possible mechanisms beyond the ameliorative activity of AG against AF-inflicted hepatic injury. Male Wistar rats were assigned into four groups: Control, AG (7.5 g/kg b.w/day, orally), AF (200 µg/kg b.w), and AG plus AF group. AF induced marked liver damage expounded by considerable changes in biochemical profile and histological architecture. The oxidative stress stimulated by AF boosted the production of plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) level along with decreases in the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) level and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity. Additionally, AF exposure was associated with down-regulation of the nuclear factor erythroid2–related factor2 (Nrf2) and superoxide dismutase1 (SOD1) protein expression in liver tissue. Apoptotic cascade has also been evoked following AF-exposure, as depicted in overexpression of cytochrome c (Cyto c), cleaved Caspase3 (Cl. Casp3), along with enhanced up-regulation of inflammatory mediators such as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-6, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and nuclear factor kappa-B transcription factor/p65 (NF-κB/p65) mRNA expression levels. Interestingly, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory contents of AG may reverse the induced oxidative damage, inflammation, and apoptosis in AF-exposed animals.

Effect of Gum Arabic on plaque-induced gingivitis: A randomised controlled trial

New approaches to treating periodontal diseases aim to balance sustaining the natural oral microbiota and modifying the host immune response. Gum Arabic (GA) is a natural polysaccharide rich in prebiotics.

The aim of this study was to assess the effect of GA on clinical (Plaque Index (PI), Gingival Index (GI)) and immunological (Gingival Crevicular Fluid Interleukin 1 Beta (GCF IL-1 β)) parameters in patients with plaque-induced gingivitis.

Materials and methods

This placebo-controlled, double-blinded randomised clinical trial was conducted at the Department of Periodontology at Khartoum Dental Teaching Hospital, Khartoum, Sudan, from July to October 2016. Patients diagnosed with plaque-induced gingivitis meeting the study eligibility criteria were enrolled. At baseline, PI, GI and GCF IL-1β were measured. Patients received full-mouth scaling and were randomly assigned to receive either GA powder (intervention group) or Microcrystalline cellulose powder (placebo group). The patients were instructed to apply the treatment twice a day throughout the study. The PI, GI and GCF IL-1β were reassessed after 30 and 60 days.

Results

A total of 60 patients were enrolled (30 in each group). Compared to the placebo group, the intervention group showed a statistically significant reduction in GI scores after 30 days and improved PI scores at 30 and 60 days. Between baseline and 60 days, patients who received GA exhibited a significant reduction in GCF IL-1β levels compared to the placebo group.

Conclusion

GA was found to be effective in controlling plaque and gingivitis.

Clinical Trial Registration. ISRCTN registry ISRCTN14209449.

TGF-β1, NAG-1, and antioxidant enzymes expression alterations in Cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in a rat model: Comparative modulating role of Melatonin, Vit. E and Ozone

Cisplatin (CP) is an anticancer medication that is commonly used to treat solid tumors. Its use is, however, dose-restricted due to nephrotoxicity. We planned to compare the nephroprotective effects of three major compounds, including melatonin (MN), Ozone, or vitamin E, against the CP-induced renal damage in rats. CP was given once intraperitoneally (10 mg/kg,) eliciting acute kidney injury as assured by several adverse histological changes; glomerulopathy, tubulopathy, and vasculopathy, an inflammatory response including elevated TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β. Furthermore, biochemical alterations including, elevated plasma levels of urea, uric acid, creatinine, phosphorous, decreased plasma calcium levels, and gene expression abnormalities; upregulation of N-acetyl-β-d-glucosaminidase (NAG) and Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), downregulation of CAT and SOD. Concurrent supplementation with either MN (10 mg/kg per os) or Ozone (1.1 mg/kg ip) and Vit E given by oral gavage (1 g/kg) for five consecutive days prior to CP injection and five days afterward displayed variable significant nephroprotective effects by mitigating the pro-inflammatory secretion, augmenting antioxidant competence, and modulating the gene expression in the renal tissue. The obtained biochemical, histological, and gene expression data suggested that MN had foremost rescue effects followed by Ozone then Vit E. MN's ameliorative effect was augmented in many indices including TNF-α, IL-6 , IL1-β, uric acid, creatinine, sNGAL and GGT, more than observed in Ozone, and Vit E therapy. A combination of these medications is expected to be more useful in relieving the damaging renal effects of CP given to cancer patients, pending further toxicological and pharmacological research.

Gum Arabic in combination with IFN-γ promotes the M1 polarization in macrophage

Gum Arabic, a mixture of polysaccharide and glycoprotein, is used as an emulsifying stabilizer in the food industry. It might have immunomodulatory effects. We hypothesized that the combination of IFN-γ and Gum Arabic promotes the production of pro-inflammatory factors in RAW 264.7 cells. Treatment of RAW 264.7 cells with the combination of 3% Gum Arabic and 40 ng/mL IFN-γ resulted in a drastic increase (320%) in nitric oxide production compared with that induced by IFN-γ alone. PGE-2 was produced after the cells were treated with 3% Gum Arabic and 40 ng/mL IFN-γ for 6 h. Gum Arabic and IFN-γ increased the production of iNOS and COX-2 proteins, and triggered TNF-α release. Apart from TNF-α, the release of both G-CSF and IL-6 increased by more than 100 times. The release of IL-3, RANTES, and IL-10 increased by more than ten times. Gum Arabic and IFN-γ also increased the secretion of IL-10, IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-13, KC, IL-5, IL-4, IL-12, Eotaxin, IL-9, MCP-1, and ROS. Cytokines associated with M1 polarization of macrophages such as TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-12, NO, and ROS were induced by Gum Arabic and IFN-γ. Our findings help to explore the inflammatory reaction caused by Gum Arabic in cosmetics.

Kishk Sa′eedi as a potential functional food for management of metabolic syndrome: A study of the possible interaction with pomegranate seed oil and/ or gum Arabic

Introduction: In the present research, the health benefits of the traditional Egyptian food called Kishk Sa′eedi (KS) and KS mixed with gum Arabic (GA) or with a mixture of GA and pomegranate seed oil (PSO) were studied in a rat model of metabolic syndrome (MS) induced by feeding high fructose high hydrogenated fat diet (HFFD). Methods: Rats were divided into a normal control group (NC) fed on a balanced diet (Diet 1), a MS control (MSC) receiving HFFD (Diet 2), and three test groups feeding on HFFD containing KS (Diet 3), KS with GA (Diet 4), and KS with GA and PSO (Diet 5), respectively for five weeks. Biochemical and histopathological changes were assessed. Results: Significant increase in blood glucose, plasma alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), urea, creatinine, uric acid, malondialdehyde (MDA), dyslipidemia and reduction in reduced glutathione (GSH) were demonstrated in MSC compared to NC (P < 0.05). Significant elevation in liver fat, MDA and gene expression of interleukin-6 (IL-6) with significant down-regulation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR-α) were noticed in MSC compared to NC (P < 0.05). The three test diets improved plasma high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C), uric acid, MDA, liver PPAR-α and IL-6 expression (P < 0.05) compared to MSC without affecting liver lipids. Blood glucose, plasma dyslipidemia, AST, creatinine and urea were improved by diet 3 and diet 5 (P < 0.05). Diet 3 elevated GSH and reduced ALT and MDA (P < 0.05). Histopathological changes induced by HFFD in both liver and kidney showed variable improvement by feeding the tested diets. Conclusion: The tested diets significantly improved MS rat model with superiority to diet 3.

Antioxidant and Antigenotoxic Actions of Gum Arabic on the Intestinal Mucosa, Liver and Bone Marrow of Swiss Mice Submitted to Colorectal Carcinogenesis

Colorectal carcinogenesis is characterized by oxidative stress and the formation of aberrant crypts in its initial stages. Gum arabic (GA) is a natural product with antioxidant properties, and, therefore, supposed antitumor action. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of GA on the formation of aberrant crypts, as well as the local, hepatic, and systemic genotoxicity and oxidative stress. We induced colorectal carcinogenesis in Swiss male mice, afterwards treated them with water, 2.5% GA or 5% GA via gavage for twelve weeks and then performed surgery in order to obtain samples to analysis (proximal and distal colon, liver, blood, and bone marrow). The number of aberrant crypts in the GA-treated animals was lower than in the control groups. Likewise, there was a decline of colonic, hepatic, and systemic genotoxicity and oxidative stress. These results reflect the antioxidant role of GA and may lead to the development of treatments that inhibit colorectal carcinogenesis.

Gum Arabic (Acacia Senegal) Augmented Total Antioxidant Capacity and Reduced C-Reactive Protein among Haemodialysis Patients in Phase II Trial

Background

Oxidative processes might increase in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) according to the current literature. Oxidative stress (OS) is a risk factor of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular complications, which are major causes of mortality among ESRD patients. Haemodialysis (HD) is life-saving procedure, nevertheless it is an active chronic inflammatory status that could augment cardiovascular disease and increase mortality. Gum Arabic (GA) has been claimed to act as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent in experimental studies and clinical trials. Therefore, we assumed GA supplementation among haemodialysis patients would reduce oxidative stress and consequently reduce the state of chronic inflammatory activation associated with haemodialysis.

Methods

Forty end-stage renal failure (ESRF) patients aged 18–80 years who were on regular haemodialysis in Arif Renal Center, Omdurman, Sudan, were recruited. All recruited patients met the inclusion criteria and signed informed consent prior to enrolment. The patients received 30 g/day of GA for 12 weeks. C-reactive protein (CRP) and complete blood count (CBC) were measured as baseline and monthly. Total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and oxidative stress marker malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were measured before and after GA intake. Ethical approval from the National Medicines and Poisons Board was obtained.

Results

Gum Arabic significantly augmented total antioxidant capacity level (P < 0.001) (95% CI, 0.408–0.625) and also attenuated oxidative marker MDA and C-reactive protein (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

GA has revealed potent antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties in haemodialysis patients. Oral digestion of GA (30 g/day) decreased oxidative stress and inflammatory markers among haemodialysis patients. Trial registration. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03214692, registered 11 July 2017 (prospective registration).

Increase in Protective Effect of Panax vietnamensis by Heat Processing on Cisplatin-Induced Kidney Cell Toxicity

Cisplatin is a platinum-based anticancer agent used for treating a wide range of solid cancers. One of the side effects of this drug is its severe nephrotoxicity, limiting the safe dose of cisplatin. Therefore, many natural products have been studied and applied to attenuate the toxicity of this compound. In this study, we found that steamed Vietnamese ginseng (Panax vietnamensis) could significantly reduce the kidney damage of cisplatin in an in vitro model using porcine proximal tubular LLC-PK1 kidney cells. From processed ginseng under optimized conditions (120 °C, 12 h), we isolated seven compounds (20(R,S)-ginsenoside Rh2, 20(R,S)-ginsenoside Rg3, ginsenoside Rk1, ginsenoside-Rg5, and ocotillol genin) that showed kidney-protective potential against cisplatin toxicity. By comparing the 50% recovery concentration (RC₅₀), the R form of ginsenoside, Rh2 and Rg3, had RC₅₀ values of 6.67 ± 0.42 µM and 8.39 ± 0.3 µM, respectively, while the S forms of ginsenoside, Rh2 and Rg3, and Rk1, had weaker protective effects, with RC₅₀ ranging from 46.15 to 88.4 µM. G-Rg5 and ocotillol, the typical saponin of Vietnamese ginseng, had the highest RC₅₀ (180.83 ± 33.27; 226.19 ± 66.16, respectively). Our results suggest that processed Vietnamese gingseng (PVG), as well as those compounds, has the potential to improve kidney damage due to cisplatin toxicity.

Genotoxic, cytotoxic, and cytopathological effects in rats exposed for 18 months to a mixture of 13 chemicals in doses below NOAEL levels

The present study investigates the genotoxic and cytotoxic effects of long term exposure to low doses of a mixture consisting of methomyl, triadimefon, dimethoate, glyphosate, carbaryl, methyl parathion, aspartame, sodium benzoate, EDTA, ethylparaben, buthylparaben, bisphenol A and acacia gum in rats. Four groups of ten Sprangue Dawley rats (5 males and 5 females per group) were exposed for 18 months to the mixture in doses of 0xNOAEL, 0.0025xNOAEL, 0.01xNOAEL and 0.05xNOAEL (mg/kg bw/day). After 18 months of exposure, the rats were sacrificed and their organs were harvested. Micronuclei frequency was evaluated in bone marrow erythrocytes whereas the organs were cytopathologically examined by the touch preparation technique. The exposure to the mixture caused a genotoxic effect identified only in females. Cytopathological examination showed specific alterations of tissue organization in a tissue-type dependent manner. The observed effects were dose-dependent and correlated to various tissue parameters. Specifically, testes samples revealed degenerative and cellularity disorders, liver hepatocytes exhibited decreased glycogen deposition whereas degenerative changes were present in gastric cells. Lung tissue presented increased inflammatory cells infiltration and alveolar macrophages with enhanced phagocytic activity, whereas brain tissue exhibited changes in glial and astrocyte cells' numbers. In conclusion, exposure to very low doses of the tested mixture for 18 months induces genotoxic effects as well as monotonic cytotoxic effects in a tissue-dependent manner.

Biochemical effects and safety of Gum arabic (Acacia Senegal) supplementation in patients with sickle cell anemia

Background

Sickle cell anemia (SCA) is a hereditary chronic hemolytic anemia with several clinical consequences. Intravascular sickling of red blood cells leads to multi-organ dysfunction. Moreover, several biochemical abnormalities have been associated with SCA. Gum arabic (GA) is an edible dried gummy exudate obtained from Acacia Senegal tree. GA showed antioxidant and cytoprotective activities and demonstrated protection against hepatic, renal, and cardiac toxicities in experimental rats. We hypothesized that regular intake of GA improves renal and liver functions in patients with SCA.

Methods

Forty-seven patients (5–42 yr) carrying hemoglobin SS were recruited. The patients received 30 g/day GA for 12 weeks. Blood samples were collected before administering GA and then after 4, 8, and 12 weeks. Liver enzymes, total protein, albumin, electrolytes, urea, creatinine, and uric acid were determined in the serum. The study was approved by the Al Neelain University Institutional Review Board and Research Ethics Committee Ministry of Health. The trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (identifier: NCT02467257).

Results

GA significantly decreased direct bilirubin level [statistical significance (P-value)=0.04]. It also significantly decreased serum alanine transaminase level after 4 weeks, which was sustained till the 8th week. GA, however, had no effect on serum aspartate transaminase level. In terms of renal function, GA decreased serum urea level but the effect was not sustained after the first month.

Conclusion

GA may alter the disease severity in SCA as demonstrated by its ability to decrease direct bilirubin and urea levels in the serum.

Gum Arabic as novel anti-oxidant agent in sickle cell anemia, phase II trial

Background

Sickle cell anemia patients suffer from oxidative stress due to chronic inflammation and self-oxidation of sickle hemoglobin (Hb S). Chronic oxidative stress contributes to endothelial dysfunction, inflammation and multiple organ damage in sickle cell disease (SCD). Thus, antioxidant medication may favorably influence the disease. Gum Arabic (GA), edible, dried, gummy exudates from Acacia Senegal tree, has been claimed to act as an anti-oxidant and cytoprotective agent, protecting against experimental hepatic, renal and cardiac toxicities in rats. We hypothesized that regular intake of GA increases anti-oxidant capacity and reduce oxidative stress.

Methods

Forty-seven patients (5–42 years) carrying hemoglobin SS were recruited. Patients received 30 g/day GA for 12 weeks. Total anti-oxidant capacity (TAC), malondialdehyde (MDA) and hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) levels were measured by spectrophotometric methods before and after GA intake. Complete blood count was measured by sysmex.

Results

Gum Arabic significantly increased TAC level P < 0.001and decreased the oxidative markers MDA (P < 0.05) and H₂O₂ (P < 0.005).

Conclusions

GA has potent anti- oxidative properties in sickle cell anemia. The anti-oxidant effect of GA may thus favorably influence the clinical condition of this and further diseases characterized by oxidative stress.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02467257. Registered 3rd June 2015. Retrospective registration.

Novel calcified gum Arabic porous nano-composite scaffold for bone tissue regeneration

The aim of this study was to investigate the biomechanical and biological properties of a nanocomposite scaffold containing both mineral and polysaccharide constituents. Hydroxyapatite nanoparticles (n-HA) was synthesized from dead abra ovata shells using wet chemical methods and was used in different ratios in concert with gum Arabic, a branched plant polysaccharide. N-HA/gum nanocomposite was fabricated with freeze-drying process and characterized by FTIR and SEM for chemical structure and morphology. Porosity was estimated using liquid substitution method. The scaffold mechanical properties were evaluated by compressive test measurement. Osteogenic differentiation was assessed using alkaline phosphatase production and biomineralization was evaluated using Alizarin red assay. Results demonstrated that the hydroxyapatite/gum Arabic nanocomposite had favorable biocompatibility and a similar structure to natural bone matrix. Porous nanocomposite possessed macropore networks with a porosity 87-93% and mean pore size ranging between 164 and 230 μm. The gum/HA with a ratio of 50% w/w HA had the highest compressive modulus of ∼75.3 MPa Pa (MPa) and the ultimate compressive stress of ∼16.6 MPa. C2C12 cells cultured on a scaffold with higher percentage (40 and 50 w/w) of HA demonstrated increased ALP levels and calcium deposition. The data from the present study demonstrated significant changes to the biomechanical properties and osteoconductivity of the nanocomposite scaffold by modulating its mineral content. Nanocomposite scaffolds containing gum and n-HA of 40-50% exhibited highest mechanical properties, as well as supported increased biomineralization.

Mitochondrial modulation by Epigallocatechin 3-Gallate ameliorates cisplatin induced renal injury through decreasing oxidative/nitrative stress, inflammation and NF-kB in mice

Cancer chemotherapy drug cisplatin is known for its nephrotoxicity. The aim of this study is to investigate whether Epigallocatechin 3-Gallate (EGCG) can reduce cisplatin mediated side effect in kidney and to understand its mechanism of protection against tissue injury. We used a well-established 3-day cisplatin induced nephrotoxicity mice model where EGCG were administered. EGCG is a major active compound in Green Tea and have strong anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. EGCG protected against cisplatin induced renal dysfunction as measured by serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN). EGCG improved cisplatin induced kidney structural damages such as tubular dilatation, cast formation, granulovaculoar degeneration and tubular cell necrosis as evident by PAS staining. Cisplatin induced kidney specific mitochondrial oxidative stress, impaired activities of mitochondrial electron transport chain enzyme complexes, impaired anti-oxidant defense enzyme activities such as glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) in mitochondria, inflammation (tumor necrosis factor α and interleukin 1β), increased accumulation of NF-κB in nuclear fraction, p53 induction, and apoptotic cell death (caspase 3 activity and DNA fragmentation). Treatment of mice with EGCG markedly attenuated cisplatin induced mitochondrial oxidative/nitrative stress, mitochondrial damages to electron transport chain activities and antioxidant defense enzyme activities in mitochondria. These mitochondrial modulations by EGCG led to protection mechanism against cisplatin induced inflammation and apoptotic cell death in mice kidney. As a result, EGCG improved renal function in cisplatin mediated kidney damage. In addition to that, EGCG attenuated cisplatin induced apoptotic cell death and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in human kidney tubular cell line HK-2. Thus, our data suggest that EGCG may represent new promising adjunct candidate for cisplatin.

Renoprotective effect of Egyptian cape gooseberry fruit (Physalis peruviana L.) against acute renal injury in rats

This study aimed to evaluate the renoprotective effect of Physalis peruviana L. extract (PPE) on acute renal injury in rats. Adult male rats (n = 36) were divided into six groups that were fed with basal diet throughout the experiment (33 days). The first group was normal group, the second and the third groups were administered orally with 100 and 150 mg PPE/kg body weight (BW) respectively, the fourth group was injected intraperitoneally with 5 mg/kg BW cisplatin once on the 28th day to induced ARI, and the fifth and sixth groups were treated like the second and the third groups and were injected with cisplatin on the 28th day. Many bioactive compounds were found in PPE. PPE did not cause any changes in the second and third groups compared to normal control group. Administration of PPE prior to cisplatin injection caused significant reduction in relative kidney weight, serum creatinine, urea, blood urea nitrogen, and significant increments in body weight, feed intake, total protein, albumin, and total globulin compared to cisplatin group. Pretreatment with PPE improved kidney histology and diminished the level of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and enhanced other antioxidant enzymes in kidney homogenate compared to cisplatin group.

Antioxidant effect of Arabic gum against mercuric chloride-induced nephrotoxicity

The effects of Arabic gum (AG) against nephrotoxicity of mercury (Hg), an oxidative-stress inducing substance, in rats were investigated. A single dose of mercuric chloride (5 mg/kg intraperitoneal injection) induced renal toxicity, manifested biochemically by a significant increase in serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, and total nitrate/nitrite production in kidney tissues. In addition, reduced glutathione, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase enzymes in renal tissues were significantly decreased. Pretreatment of rats with AG (7.5 g/kg/day per oral administration), starting 5 days before mercuric chloride injection and continuing through the experimental period, resulted in a complete reversal of Hg-induced increase in creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, and total nitrate/nitrite to control values. Histopathologic examination of kidney tissues confirmed the biochemical data; pretreatment of AG prevented Hg-induced degenerative changes of kidney tissues. These results indicate that AG is an efficient cytoprotective agent against Hg-induced nephrotoxicity by a mechanism related at least in part to its ability to decrease oxidative and nitrosative stress and preserve the activity of antioxidant enzymes in kidney tissues.

Effect of gum arabic on oxidative stress and inflammation in adenine-induced chronic renal failure in rats

Inflammation and oxidative stress are known to be involved in the pathogenesis of chronic kidney disease in humans, and in chronic renal failure (CRF) in rats. The aim of this work was to study the role of inflammation and oxidative stress in adenine-induced CRF and the effect thereon of the purported nephroprotective agent gum arabic (GA). Rats were divided into four groups and treated for 4 weeks as follows: control, adenine in feed (0.75%, w/w), GA in drinking water (15%, w/v) and adenine+GA, as before. Urine, blood and kidneys were collected from the rats at the end of the treatment for analysis of conventional renal function tests (plasma creatinine and urea concentration). In addition, the concentrations of the pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF-α and the oxidative stress markers glutathione and superoxide dismutase, renal apoptosis, superoxide formation and DNA double strand break frequency, detected by immunohistochemistry for γ-H2AX, were measured. Adenine significantly increased the concentrations of urea and creatinine in plasma, significantly decreased the creatinine clearance and induced significant increases in the concentration of the measured inflammatory mediators. Further, it caused oxidative stress and DNA damage. Treatment with GA significantly ameliorated these actions. The mechanism of the reported salutary effect of GA in adenine-induced CRF is associated with mitigation of the adenine-induced inflammation and generation of free radicals.

Nephroprotective Effect of POLYCAN on Acute Renal Failure Induced by Cisplatin in Rats

We performed to evaluate the effect of POLYCAN (β-glucan) on cisplatin-(CDDP-)induced acute renal failure (ARF) in rats. POLYCAN was administered orally once a day for 32 days. Each of 8 rats per group was selected based on the body weight (BW) after acclimatization and they were sacrificed at 5 days after CDDP injection. There was significant (P < 0.05) increase of BW after CDDP dosing in all POLYCAN groups than vehicle control and significant (P < 0.01 or P < 0.05) decrease of absolute and relative kidney weight were detected in all POLYCAN groups compared with vehicle control. In addition, serum BUN and creatinine level in all POLYCAN groups were significantly (P < 0.01 or P < 0.05) lower than vehicle control and the percentage of degenerative regions significantly (P < 0.01) decreased in all POLYCAN groups. As the results of CDDP-induced ARF process, dramatic decrease of the BW, increase of the kidney weight, serum BUN, and creatinine level were detected in vehicle control group compared with sham control group. The changes by CDDP-induced ARF process in POLYCAN groups were significantly and dose-dependently improved compared with vehicle control group. Therefore, POLYCAN has enough potential to develop as a new agent of prevention or treatment for ARF.

Acacia Senegal gum exudate offers protection against cyclophosphamide-induced urinary bladder cytotoxicity

Cylophosphamide (CYCL) is a strong anticancer and immunosuppressive agent but its urotoxicity presents one of the major toxic effects that limit its wide usage particularly in high dose regimens. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate Acacia Senegal gum exudate, Gum Arabic (GA), for its possible role as a natural, nontoxic agent against CYCL-induced urotoxicity. Male Swiss albino rats were exposed to CYCL (150 mg/kg BW, once i.p) with or without GA oral supplementation (7.5 g/kg/day for 6 days) through drinking water. Glutathione (GSH), Malondialdehyde (MDA) and Nitric oxide (NO) bladder contents were assessed. Responsiveness of the bladder rings to acetylcholine (ACh) in vitro, microscopic and macroscopic features are also investigated. CYCL produced pronounced harmful effects on bladder urothelial lining with significant increases in (MDA) and NO levels in the tissue homogenates. Bladder-GSH content is dropped by over 60% following CYCL injection. Bladder contractility, as measured by its responsiveness to ACh, recorded a marked reduction. The isolated bladders exhibited such macroscopic changes as severe edema, inflammation and extravasation. The bladder weight increased as well. Histological changes were evident in the form of severe congestion, petechial hemorrhage and chronic inflammatory reaction in the lamina propria accompanied with desquamated epithelia. GA, a potential protective agent, produced an almost complete reversal of NO induction, lipid peroxidation or cellular GSH bladder contents in the GA + CYCL-treated group. Likewise, bladder inflammation and edema were reduced. Bladder rings showed a remarkable recovery in their responsiveness to ACh. Bladder histological examination showed a near normal configuration and structural integrity, with a significant reduction in inflammation and disappearance of focal erosions. These remarkable effects of GA may be attributed to its ability to neutralize acrolein, the reactive metabolite of CYCL and/or the resultant reactive oxygen metabolites, through a scavenging action. GA may limit the cascading events of CYCL-induced damage, initiating a cytoprotective effect leading to structural and functional recovery of the bladder tissues.

Biological effects of gum arabic: a review of some recent research

Gum arabic (GA) is a branched-chain, complex polysaccharide, either neutral or slightly acidic, found as a mixed calcium, magnesium and potassium salt of a polysaccharidic acid. The backbone is composed of 1,3-linked beta-D-galactopyranosyl units. The side chains are composed of two to five 1,3-linked beta-D-galactopyranosyl units, joined to the main chain by 1,6-linkages. Pharmacologically, GA has been claimed to act as an anti-oxidant, and to protect against experimental hepatic-, renal- and cardiac toxicities in rats. These reports could not be confirmed by others. GA has been claimed to alleviate the adverse effects of chronic renal failure in humans. This could not be corroborated experimentally in rats. Reports on the effects of GA on lipid metabolism in humans and rats are at variance, but mostly suggest that GA ingestion can reduce plasma cholesterol concentrations in rats. GA has proabsorptive properties and can be used in diarrhoea. It enhances dental remineralization, and has some antimicrobial activity, suggesting a possible use in dentistry. GA has been shown to have an adverse effect on electrolyte balance and vitamin D in mice, and to cause hypersensitivity in humans. More studies are needed before the pharmacological properties of GA can be utilized in therapy.

Cisplatin nephrotoxicity: mechanisms and renoprotective strategies

Cisplatin is one of the most widely used and most potent chemotherapy drugs. However, side effects in normal tissues and organs, notably nephrotoxicity in the kidneys, limit the use of cisplatin and related platinum-based therapeutics. Recent research has shed significant new lights on the mechanism of cisplatin nephrotoxicity, especially on the signaling pathways leading to tubular cell death and inflammation. Renoprotective approaches are being discovered, but the protective effects are mostly partial, suggesting the need for combinatorial strategies. Importantly, it is unclear whether these approaches would limit the anticancer effects of cisplatin in tumors. Examination of tumor-bearing animals and identification of novel renoprotective strategies that do not diminish the anticancer efficacy of cisplatin are essential to the development of clinically applicable interventions.

Agents ameliorating or augmenting the nephrotoxicity of cisplatin and other platinum compounds: a review of some recent research

Cisplatin (cis-diamminedichloroplatinum (II)) is an effective agent against various solid tumours. Despite its effectiveness, the dose of cisplatin that can be administered is limited by its nephrotoxicity. Hundreds of platinum compounds (e.g. carboplatin, oxaliplatin, nedaplatin and the liposomal form lipoplatin) have been tested over the last two decades in order to improve the effectiveness and to lessen the toxicity of cisplatin. Several agents have been tested to see whether they could ameliorate or augment the nephrotoxicity of platinum drugs. This review summarizes these studies and the possible mechanisms of actions of these agents. The agents that have been shown to ameliorate experimental cisplatin nephrotoxicity include antioxidants (e.g. melatonin, vitamin E, selenium, and many others), modulators of nitric oxide (e.g. zinc histidine complex), agents interfering with metabolic pathways of cisplatin (e.g. procaine HCL), diuretics (e.g. furosemide and mannitol), and cytoprotective and antiapoptotic agents (e.g. amifostine and erythropoietin). Only few of these agents have been tested in humans. Those agents that have been shown to augment cisplatin nephrotoxicity include nitric oxide synthase inhibitors, spironolactone, gemcitabine and others. Combining these agents with cisplatin should be avoided.

Protective Effects of Capsaicin against Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity in Rats

Cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity is related to an increase in lipid peroxidation and oxygen free radicals in a kidney. In the present study, we investigated the effect of the dietary antioxidants, capsaicin (Cap), against cisplatin-induced lipid peroxidation and nephrotoxicity in rats. Nephrotoxicity induced by treatment with a single dose of cisplatin (5 mg/kg body weight i.p.). The animals were divided into 4 groups. Cap (10 mg/kg/d) was given by gavage from the same day of cisplatin injection. Cisplatin administration resulted in significant increases in the kidney weight as a percentage of the total body weight, urine volume, serum creatinine, and blood urea nitrogen by about 132, 315, 797, and 556% in comparison with the control rats, respectively (p < 0.05). Also, the renal tissue from the cisplatin-treated rats showed significant decreases in the kidney glutathione (GSH) content and superoxide dismustase (SOD) activity and a significant increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) production in comparison to the values at 0 h (p < 0.05). Seven days after Cap plus cisplatin treatments, the renal damage induced by cisplatin recovered to a significant statistically level. In addition, Cap prevented the rise of MDA and the reduction of SOD activities. These results suggest that Cap has protective effects against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity and lipid peroxidation in rats.

Peroxynitrite decomposition catalyst ameliorates renal damage and protein nitration in cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats

Background

Oxidative stress is involved in cisplatin-nephrotoxicity. However, it has not completely established if reactive nitrogen species and nitrosative stress are involved in this experimental model. The purpose of this work was to study the role of peroxynitrite, a reactive nitrogen specie, in cisplatin-nephrotoxicity using the compound 5,10,15,20-tetrakis (4-sulfonatophenyl) porphyrinato iron (III) (FeTPPS), a soluble complex able to metabolize peroxynitrite.

Results

In rats treated with cisplatin (a single intraperitoneal dose of 7.5 mg/kg body weight), renal nitrosative stress was made evident by the increase in 3-nitrotyrosine on day 3. In addition, cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity was evident by the histological damage of proximal tubular cells and by the increase in (a) serum creatinine, (b) blood urea nitrogen, and (c) urinary excretion of N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase and total protein. Cisplatin-induced nitrosative stress and nephrotoxicity were attenuated by FeTPPS-treatment (15 mg/kg body weight, intraperitoneally, every 12 hours for 3 days).

Conclusions

Nitrosative stress is involved in cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats. Our data suggest that peroxynitrite is involved, at least in part, in cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity and protein nitration.