Protection against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity by Spirulina in rats

Modulation of mi-RNA25/Ox-LDL/NOX4 signaling pathway by polyphenolic compound Hydroxytyrosol as a new avenue to alleviate cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury, a mechanistic study in rats

Acute kidney injury (AKI) caused by Cis is considered one of the most severe adverse effects, which restricts its use and efficacy. This study seeks to examine the potential reno-protective impact of phenolic compound Hydroxytyrosol (HT) against Cis-induced AKI and the possible involvement of the mi-RNA25/Ox-LDL/NOX4 pathway elucidating the probable implicated molecular mechanisms. Forty rats were placed into 5 groups. Group I received saline only. Group II received Cis only. Group III, IV, and V received 20, 50, and 100 mg/kg b.w, of HT, respectively, with Cis delivery. NOX4, Ox-LDL, and gene expression of mi-RNA 25, TNF-α, and HO-1 in renal tissue were detected. HT showed reno-protective effect and significantly upregulated mi-RNA 25 and HO-1 as well as decreased the expression of NOX4, Ox-LDL, and TNF-α. In conclusion, HT may be promising in the fight against Cis-induced AKI through modulation of mi-RNA25/Ox-LDL/NOX4 pathway.

Ameliorative Effect of Olea europaea Leaf Extract on Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity in the Rat Model

Background

Olea europaea leaf extract (OELE) has potential health benefits and protects against cytotoxicity. This study investigated the possible ameliorative effect of OELE on cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats.

Methods

Rats were assigned into six groups; two groups received 150 mg/kg or 300 mg/kg of OELE, one group received a single dose of cisplatin (6 mg/kg) IP on the first day of the experiment, two groups received a single dose of cisplatin 150 mg/kg or 300 mg/kg of OELE on the first day then starting from the fifth day for 10 consecutive days, and one group acted as a control. Results and Conclusion. The findings showed that cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity was evidenced by a significant increase in serum creatinine blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and a significant decrease in estimated creatinine clearance and potassium level, which corresponded with the alterations in the histopathology of the renal tissue. OELE significantly ameliorated the nephrotoxic effects of cisplatin as dose-dependent.

PROPERTY: study protocol for a randomized, double-blind, multicenter placebo-controlled trial assessing neurotoxicity in patients with metastatic gastrointestinal cancer taking PHYCOCARE® during oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy

BACKGROUND

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is one of the most common adverse effects of antineoplastic agents, ranging in prevalence from 19% to over 85%. Clinically, CIPN is a predominantly sensory neuropathy that may be accompanied by motor and autonomic changes of varying intensity and duration. The high prevalence of CIPN among cancer patients makes it a major problem for both patients and survivors, as well as for their health care providers, especially because there is currently no single effective method of preventing CIPN; moreover, the options for treating this syndrome are very limited. Phycocyanin, a biliprotein pigment and an important constituent of the blue-green algae Spirulina platensis, has been reported to possess significant antioxidant and radical-scavenging properties, offering protection against oxidative stress, which is one of the hypothetic mechanisms, between others, of CIPN occurrence.

METHODS

Our hypothesis is that phycocyanin may give protection against oxaliplatin-induced neuropathy in the treatment of gastrointestinal cancers. Our trial will be a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study with 110 randomized patients suffering from metastatic gastrointestinal adenocarcinoma including esogastric, colorectal, and pancreatic cancers. Patients are being followed up in the gastroenterology or oncology departments of seven French hospitals.

DISCUSSION

Due to the neuropathy, patients need to avoid injury by paying careful attention to home safety; patients' physicians often prescribe over-the-counter pain medications. If validated, our hypothesis should help to limit neurotoxicity without the need to discontinue chemotherapy.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05025826. First published on August 27, 2021.

Spirulina platensis protects against microcystin-LR-induced toxicity in rats

Microcystis aeruginosa produces an abundant cyanotoxin (microcystins (MCs) in freshwater supplies. MCs have adverse health hazards to animals and humans. Microcystin-leucine-arginine (microcystin-LR or MC-LR) is the most studied among these MCs due to their high toxicity. So, this study was designed to evaluate the possible therapeutic role of the natural algal food supplement, Spirulina platensis (SP), against MC-LR-induced toxic effects in male Wistar rats. Forty rats were randomly divided into five groups. Control and SP groups orally administered distilled water and SP (1000 mg/kg/daily), respectively, for 21 days. MC-LR group was intraperitoneally injected with MC-LR (10 μg/kg/day) for 14 days. MC-LR-SP₅₀₀ and MC-LR-SP₁₀₀₀ groups were orally treated with SP (500 and 1000 mg/kg, respectively) for 7 days and concomitantly with MC-LR for 14 days. MC-LR induced oxidative hepatorenal damage, cardiotoxicity, and neurotoxicity greatly, which was represented by reduction of reduced glutathione content and the activities of glutathione peroxidase, catalase, and superoxide dismutase and elevation of concentrations of nitric oxide and malondialdehyde in renal, hepatic, brain, and heart tissues. In addition, it increased serum levels of urea, creatinine, tumor necrosis factor-alfa, interleukin-1beta and interleukin-6 and serum activities of alkaline phosphatase, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, lactate dehydrogenase, creatine kinase, and creatine kinase-MB. However, S. platensis restored normal levels of measured serum parameters, ameliorated MC-LR-induced oxidative damage, and normalized tissue antioxidant biomarkers. In conclusion, SP alleviated MC-induced organ toxicities by mitigating oxidative and nitrosative stress and lipid peroxidation.

The protective impacts of Spirulina platensis against cisplatin-induced renal injury through the regulation of oxidative stress, pro-inflammatory cytokines and Bax/Bcl2

One of the main antineoplastic chemotherapy medications is cisplatin, of which nephropathy is a major side effect. In this current study, we aim to investigate the molecular protective effect of Spirulina platensis (SP) on cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity. In total, 48 healthy male albino rats were allocated into 4 groups. Group 1 received saline intraperitoneally (IP) twice per week (normal rats). Group 2 received SP (100 mg/kg BW orally). Group 3 were injected with cisplatin (1.5 mg/kg IP) twice per week. Group 4 received SP and on the 4th day received cisplatin (1.5 mg/kg IP) for 21 days. After 3 weeks of experiment, blood and renal tissues were taken for serum analysis, gene expression using qRT-polymerase chain reaction, and renal histopathology. As per our findings, it was found that SP significantly ameliorated the alterations in body weight, relative kidney weight, and the disturbance in examined renal markers. Furthermore, SP recovered and restored cisplatin-induced oxidative stress biomarkers (MDA and NO) and antioxidant activity (SOD and GSH) and cisplatin-induced upregulation in the gene expression of TNF-α, inducible nitric oxide synthase, TGF1-β, IL-1β, and IL-6. Interestingly, these gene expressions were ameliorated by the SP pre-administration. Furthermore, cisplatin upregulated pro-apoptotic gene Bax, whereas it downregulated anti-apoptotic gene Bcl2. Interestingly, SP mitigated this alteration in apoptosis and anti-apoptotic associated genes. Renal histopathology revealed the protective impacts of SP against cisplatin-induced severe glomerular congestion, hemorrhage, inflammatory cell infiltration, degeneration, and severe necrosis in renal glomeruli and tubules. In conclusion, SP has a protective effect against cisplatin-induced renal damage through modulating oxidative stress and anti-inflammatory, anti-necrotic, and anti-apoptotic-associated genes.

Ameliorative Effects of Gallic Acid on Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity in Rat Variations of Biochemistry, Histopathology, and Gene Expression

BACKGROUND

Cisplatin is a powerful chemotherapeutic drug mainly used in the treatment of solid tumors. Aggregation of the drug in renal proximal tubule cells causes nephrotoxicity and renal failure. Investigations showed nephrotoxicity as Cisplatin's dose-limiting side effect. One of the Cisplatin toxicity mechanisms is generation of reactive oxygen species, which leads to oxidative stress and renal damage. The purpose of this study was evaluation of the modulating effects of Gallic acid on Cisplatin-induced variations including Caspase-3 and Clusterin expression and histopathological and biochemical parameters in adult male Wistar rats.

METHOD

Rats were kept under standard condition of temperature, light, and humidity. The animals were divided into 4 groups: GpI: control group (received distilled water for 10 days); GpII: Gallic acid (alone) (50 mg/kg bw, once a day for 10 days); GpIII: Cisplatin (alone), single dose (6 mg/kg bw, I.P. on 5th day of study); GpIV: Gallic acid (50 mg/kg bw, once a day for 10 days) and also injected with single dose of Cisplatin (6 mg/kg bw, I.P., on 5th day of study). After 10 days, all rats were anaesthetized and plasma collected to estimate urea, creatinine, and uric acid. The right kidneys were removed for the study of gene expression and biochemical parameters. The left kidneys were used for histopathological studies.

RESULTS

The Cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity was evident from the elevated levels of creatinine, urea, uric acid, and renal tissue MDA and also decreased levels of SOD, CAT, GPX, and GSH in renal tissue. Administration of Gallic acid significantly modulated nephrotoxicity markers, gene expression variations, and histopathological damage.

CONCLUSION

Outcomes of the present investigation suggest that Gallic acid provides protection against CP-induced nephrotoxicity, but for application in people, further studies are needed.

Influence of supplementation of Spirulina platensis on nutritional, physiological and metabolic performance of GIFT Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)

An eight weeks feeding trial was conducted to assess the influence of supplementation of Spirulina platensis on nutritional, physiological and metabolic performance of GIFT Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Fingerlings (120; Initial body weight 3.4±0.01 g) were randomly assigned to four dietary treatments, viz. control (0%), T1 (1%), T2 (3%) and T3 (5% S. platensis meal) in triplicates. The animals were fed with a ration at 5% body weight twice a day throughout the trial. The results indicated that, final body proximate composition, growth performance and nutrients digestibility coefficient were higher in T2 group compared to other treatments and the control. At this level of inclusion, fish digestive enzymes, such as amylase, protease and lipase were significantly higher between control and treatments however, metabolic enzyme activities were not influenced by dietary treatments. The liver and intestinal histology were not affected by dietary treatments, however the intestinal tissues showed a higher intestinal villi length and muscular layer thickness than the control group. It can be concluded that, S. plantesis meal can be supplemented up to 3% without compromising the overall performance of GIFT tilapia.

Isoliquiritigenin Pretreatment Induces Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress-Mediated Hormesis and Attenuates Cisplatin-Induced Oxidative Stress and Damage in LLC-PK1 Cells

Isoliquiritigenin (IsoLQ) is a flavonoid with antioxidant properties and inducer of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. In vitro and in vivo studies show that ER stress-mediated hormesis is cytoprotective; therefore, natural antioxidants and ER stress inducers have been used to prevent renal injury. Oxidative stress and ER stress are some of the mechanisms of damage involved in cisplatin (CP)-induced nephrotoxicity. This study aims to explore whether IsoLQ pretreatment induces ER stress and produces hormesis to protect against CP-induced nephrotoxicity in Lilly Laboratories Cell-Porcine Kidney 1 (LLC-PK1) cells. During the first stage of this study, both IsoLQ protective concentration and pretreatment time against CP-induced toxicity were determined by cell viability. At the second stage, the effect of IsoLQ pretreatment on cell viability, ER stress, and oxidative stress were evaluated. IsoLQ pretreatment in CP-treated cells induces expression of glucose-related proteins 78 and 94 kDa (GRP78 and GRP94, respectively), attenuates CP-induced cell death, decreases reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and prevents the decrease in glutathione/glutathione disulfide (GSH/GSSG) ratio, free thiols levels, and glutathione reductase (GR) activity. These data suggest that IsoLQ pretreatment has a moderately protective effect on CP-induced toxicity in LLC-PK1 cells, through ER stress-mediated hormesis, as well as by the antioxidant properties of IsoLQ.

Antioxidant and protective effect of Stachys pilifera Benth against nephrotoxicity induced by cisplatin in rats

The aim of current study was to assess the antioxidant and renoprotective effects of Stachys pilifera Benth (S.P.B.) hydroalcoholic extract on nephrotoxicity induced with cisplatin (CP). Adult rats with bodyweight of 180-220 g were divided into five groups (n = 7) treated as follows: group 1, control; group 2, CP; group 3, pretreatment with S.P.B. before CP; group 4, posttreatment with S.P.B. after CP; and, group 5, S.P.B. extract. A single dose of CP (7 mg/kg) was intraperitoneally injected on the fifth day and hydroalcoholic extract of S.P.B. (500 mg kg^-1  day^-1 ) was orally administered. The levels of oxidative stress markers, biochemical tests, and histopathological staining were assayed in serum and renal tissue. Also, the chemical composition of S.P.B. extract was determined by GC-MS analysis. The main compositions of S.P.B. extract identified by GC-MS analysis, were hexadeca-2,6,10,14-tetraen-1-ol, 3,7,11,16-tetramethyl (24.77%), thymol (14.1%), and linolenic acid (13.4%). In groups treated and pretreated with S.P.B., blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, malondialdehyde, and nitric oxide metabolite in serum as well as malondialdehyde and protein carbonyl content of kidney tissues were significantly decreased in comparison to CP group; in contrast, total thiol group showed a significant increase in treated group as compared to CP group. Furthermore, histological investigation indicated that treatment with S.P.B. improved renal damages induced by CP. The current study showed that S.P.B. hydroalcoholic extract improved the biochemical parameters and kidney function as well as restored antioxidant activity in CP-induced nephrotoxicity. However, it needs more investigations to define the mechanism of S.P.B. action. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: In different regions of Iran, Stachys is demonstrated by 34 species, out of which 13 are endemic, one of these endemic species is Stachys pilifera Benth (S.P.B.). The oil of S.P.B. is mainly consisted of cis-chrysanthenyl acetate, cis-chrysanthenol, spathulenol, β-caryophyllene, linalool, and terpinen-4-ol. Moreover, phytochemical studies have shown the presence of compounds such as diterpenes, phenylethanoid glycosides, saponins, terpenoides, and flavonoids in Stachys species. The aerial parts of S.P.B. are consumed as herbal tea to treat several disorders, for example, infections, asthma, and rheumatoid arthritis in Iranian folk medicine. The aim of current study was to evaluate the antioxidant and protective effects of S.P.B. hydroalcoholic extract on nephrotoxicity induced with cisplatin (CP). The current study showed that S.P.B. hydroalcoholic extract improved the biochemical parameters and kidney function as well as restored antioxidant activity in CP-induced nephrotoxicity. However, it needs more researches to define the mechanism of S.P.B. action.

Effect of memantine hydrochloride on cisplatin-induced neurobehavioral toxicity in mice

Cisplatin is an anticancer agent widely used in the treatment of malignant tumors. One of the major adverse effects of cisplatin is its neurotoxicity. Memantine, an uncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist, has been reported to have neuroprotective effects against neurological deficits. This study therefore investigated the possible protective role of memantine as an agent to minimize the neurobehavioral toxic side effects of cisplatin. Two different therapeutic doses of memantine (5 mg/kg) and (10 mg/kg) were orally administered for 30 days to 50 male BALB/c mice divided into 5 groups: G1: no treatment; G2: cisplatin treatment; G3: memantine treatment; G4: pretreatment of (5 mg/kg) memantine with cisplatin (4 mg/kg); G5: pretreatment of 10 mg/kg memantine with cisplatin (4 mg/kg). Weekly neurobehavioral investigations were conducted using the following battery of tests: open field activity, negative geotaxis, hole-board test, swimming test, and calculation of weight. At the end of the experimental period the mice were euthanized, and immunohistochemistry was then used to measure the expression scores of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) in the muscles and brain. Results revealed that mice in G2 showed a significant decrease in the ability to perform neurobehavioral tasks. The mice in G5 exhibited a significantly improved ability on these tests, indicating a complete neurobehavioral protective effect, while the mice in G4 showed partial protection. The nAChRs score showed higher expression in the case of G2 in comparison with G3, G4, and G5. Weight loss was exhibited in G2, while in G3 and G1 these values were normal. A therapeutic dose of memantine 10 mg/kg yielded more protection than 5 mg/kg in the treatment of neuropathy; this highlights the importance of using memantine to decrease the main side effects of cisplatin.

Dietary restriction regimens for fighting kidney disease: Insights from rodent studies

This review critically discusses the research findings on the effects of various dietary restriction regimens in rodent models of kidney disease. Long-term caloric restriction executed at both early and progressive stages of kidney disease was found to exert beneficial effects in rodents. Moreover, some studies have also demonstrated the efficacy of short-term caloric restriction in treating the kidney disease of variable aetiologies possibly by improving mitochondrial dysfunction, autophagy process and suppression of inflammation. However, the mechanisms underlying these short-term caloric restriction mediated protective effects in rodent models of kidney disease are not completely understood. Importantly, few available evidences have also suggested that carbohydrate restriction can exert beneficial effects in aging and experimentally induced renal injury models, but the mechanisms are not explored yet. Interestingly, the benefits of low protein diet in kidney disease models are extensively reported in literature. However, in most of these studies implementation of the low protein dietary regimen was found to associated with increased high carbohydrate and caloric intake (non-isocaloric). Thus, testing the effects of low protein diet under isocaloric conditions might further help to particularly understand the role of dietary protein content in pathology of kidney disease. Moreover, the direct evidences comparing the efficacy of various dietary restriction regimens in rodent models of kidney diseases are also scarce at present.

C-phycocyanin from Limnothrix Species KNUA002 Alleviates Cisplatin-Induced Ototoxicity by Blocking the Mitochondrial Apoptotic Pathway in Auditory Cells

Ototoxicity, or adverse pharmacological effects on the inner ear or auditory nerve, is a common side effect of cisplatin, a platinum-based drug widely used in anticancer chemotherapy. Although the incidence of ototoxicity is high among patients that receive cisplatin therapy, there is currently no effective treatment for it. The generation of excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) is considered to be the major cause of cisplatin-induced ototoxicity. C-phycocyanin (C-PC), a blue phycobiliprotein found in cyanobacteria and red algae, has antioxidant and anticancer activities in different experimental models in vitro and in vivo. Thus, we tested the ability of C-PC from Limnothrix sp. KNUA002 to protect auditory cells from cisplatin-induced ototoxicity in vitro. Pretreatment with C-PC from Limnothrix sp. KNUA002 inhibited apoptosis and protected mitochondrial function by preventing ROS accumulation in cisplatin-treated House Ear Institute-Organ of Corti 1 (HEI-OC1) cells, a mouse auditory cell line. Cisplatin increased the expression of Bax and reduced the expression of Bcl-2, which activate and inhibit, respectively, the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway in response to oxidative stress. Pretreatment with C-PC prior to cisplatin treatment caused the Bax and Bcl-2 levels to stay close to the levels in untreated control cells. Our results suggest that C-PC from Limnothrix sp. KNUA002 protects cells against cisplatin-induced cytotoxicity by inhibiting the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway.

Effect of Methanolic Extract of Corn Silk on Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity in Rats

Background:

Cisplatin is a cytotoxic agent in cancer therapy. Nephrotoxicity is considered as a side effect of cisplatin usage. Using rate models, we studied the possible protective impact of corn-silk (CS) extract against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity.

Materials and Methods:

Thirty-five experimental rats were divided into five groups (n=7 per each group) as follow: C1: Control received distilled water only; C2: received one dose of cisplatin, and CS: received 300 mg/kg/day of CS. Both CS1 and CS2 received 200 and 300 mg/kg/day of the CS extract orally, individually, for eight consecutive days. CS1 and CS2 received a single dose of cisplatin on the first day only. The specific biochemical markers and histopathological alterations were evaluated.

Result:

According to our results, cisplatin administration could have induced severe degeneration in all parts of the nephron tubules and liver. Pre-treatment with CS exhibited a significant decrease in the malondialdehyde (MDA) levels as compared to the values obtained after treatment with cisplatin alone (P<0.01). Moreover, the CS extract with 200 mg dose showed significant (P<0.01) protection against the cisplatin-induced elevation of blood urea nitrogen. Further, the serum levels of alanine transaminase and aspartate transaminase were higher in the cisplatin-treated groups, when compared to the control group (P<0.05). Furthermore, the hepatic function was also improved in cisplatin-treated animals, which were pre-treated with CS.

Conclusion:

CS has the potential to attenuate nephrotoxicity and lipid peroxidation induced by cisplatin in rats.

Phycobiliproteins and phycocyanin of Arthrospira maxima (Spirulina) reduce apoptosis promoters and glomerular dysfunction in mercury-related acute kidney injury

Arthrospira maxima ( Spirulina) is considered a nutraceutical or functional food because it provides health benefits and it is used as nephroprotector because it contains nucleophilic compounds as phycobiliproteins and phycocyanin that prevent oxidative stress and cellular damage process. Also, it is known that inorganic mercury is bioaccumulated and exerted kidney toxicity. Despite the nephroprotective effect of Spirulina and its components, there is not enough information about the effect of them on renal function as well as the apoptosis process inhibition. This work aimed to investigate whether phycobiliproteins and phycocyanin of Spirulina can improve HgCl2-related glomerular and tubular renal dysfunction as well as the Bax, Bcl2, and effectors caspases alterations. Male mice were administrated with Spirulina, phycobiliproteins or phycocyanin 30 min before 5 mg/Kg HgCl2 administration. The nutraceuticals were administrated for the next 5 days. Then, the mice were euthanized. The renal function, caspases 3 and 9 activities, as well as Bax and Bcl2 expression were evaluated. Spirulina and its components prevent HgCl2-related apoptosis induction and glomerular dysfunction. We concluded that phycobiliproteins and phycocyanin of Spirulina reduce glomerular damage but not the tubular dysfunction in a mercury-related acute kidney injury.

Antagonistic effects of Spirulina platensis on diazinon-induced hemato-biochemical alterations and oxidative stress in rats

Spirulina platensis (SP) is a traditionally used microalga for a wide range of pharmacological activities, including amelioration of heavy metals and pesticides toxicity. This study evaluated the antioxidant and organoprotective effects of SP against diazinon (DZN)-induced subacute toxicity on the blood, heart, liver, and kidneys of male Wistar albino rats. Diazinon (20 mg/kg, subcutaneous) was administered to animals either alone or along with an oral pure SP powder at doses of 500 and 1000 mg/kg. Alterations in hematological and serum biochemical parameters, as well as oxidative stress markers in the hepatic, renal, and cardiac tissues were evaluated, using colorimetric spectrophotometric techniques. The obtained results revealed that in comparison to the control group, DZN-treated rats exhibited significantly lower (p < 0.05) red blood cells and platelets counts, hemoglobin and hematocrit values, and activities of serum acetylcholinesterase and tissue antioxidant enzymes (glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and catalase). Meanwhile, biochemical analysis showed significantly higher (p < 0.05) white blood cells count, serum concentrations of tumor necrosis factor-α and cardiac [creatine kinase (CK) and CK-muscle/brain fraction], hepatic [transaminases and alkaline phosphatase], and renal [uric acid, urea and creatinine] injury markers, and tissue levels of malondialdehyde (a marker of lipid peroxidation) in the DZN-intoxicated group, compared to normal controls. Interestingly, the administration of SP significantly ameliorated the previous hemato-biochemical alterations and mitigated DZN-induced organ injuries and oxidative stress. In conclusion, the natural antioxidant microalga (SP) effectively alleviated the DZN-induced hematologic alterations and organ injuries, probably through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities.

Potential protective effects of the edible alga Arthrospira platensis against lead-induced oxidative stress, anemia, kidney injury, and histopathological changes in adult rats

Oxidative damage has been proposed as a possible mechanism involved in lead toxicity. This study investigated the possible protective effect of dietary Arthrospira platensis supplementation against lead acetate-induced kidney injury in adult male rats. Rats were divided into 4 groups: normal rats (control rats), rats treated with spirulina, rats treated with lead (Pb) (0.344 g/kg body weight), and rats treated with Pb and spirulina. The exposure of rats to Pb for 30 days provoked renal damage with significant increases in hematological parameters, oxidative stress-related parameters (i.e., thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, protein carbonyl content, advanced oxidation protein products, and hydrogen peroxide), creatinine and urea levels in plasma, and uric acid level in urine. Conversely, antioxidant enzyme activities (i.e., catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase) and levels of nonprotein thiols, plasma uric acid, and urinary creatinine and urea decreased. The administration of spirulina to Pb-treated rats significantly improved weight, peripheral blood parameters, oxidative stress-related parameters, renal biomarker levels, and antioxidant enzyme activities. Also, rats treated with Pb and spirulina had normal kidney histology. These healing effects are likely the result of the high phenol content and significant antioxidant capacity of A. platensis. Our data strongly suggest that spirulina supplementation improves kidney function and plays an important role in the prevention of complications of Pb intoxication.

Ameliorative effects of Spirulina platensis against lead-induced nephrotoxicity in newborn rats: Modulation of oxidative stress and histopathological changes

Our experimental work was aimed at evaluating the safety and protective effects of dietary spirulina supplementation on the kidney of newborn rats, the offspring of lead contaminated lactating mothers. Female rats were randomly divided into four groups: group I (control) was given a normal diet, group II (positive control, S) received a diet enriched with spirulina, group III received only lead through drinking water (Pb), and group IV received both a diet enriched with spirulina and lead contaminated water (S Pb). The treatment of pregnant rats with lead administrated in drinking water, from the 5^th day of pregnancy until day 14 after delivery, induced an increased level of renal lipid peroxidation, protein carbonyl, hydrogen peroxide and advanced oxidation protein product, a decreased renal content of glutathione and antioxidant enzyme activities such as superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase in newborns. A statistically significant increase of renal DNA, mRNA, hematological parameters as well as in plasma urea and creatinine serum levels and lactate dehydrogenase was seen in pups, while those of uric acid declined. Interestingly, these biochemical modifications were accompanied by a significant decrease of lactate dehydrogenase in kidney, plasma alkaline phosphatase and gamma glutamyl-transpeptidase levels, urinary levels of creatinine and urea. Conversely, supplementation of lead-treated mother's with spirulina alleviated hematotoxicity induced by lead as evidenced, by restoring the biochemical markers cited above to near normal levels. Nevertheless, the distorted histoarchitecture in rat kidney attenuated following spirulina supplementation. It can be then concluded that spirulina is an important protective source against kidney impairments.

Arthrospira Platensis - Potential in Dermatology and Beyond

The search for natural products with benefits for health in general and of potential for treating human disease has gained wider interest world-wide. Here, we analyse current data on the microalga Arthrospira platensis (AP), that has been used in nutrition since ancient times in Fare East and African communities, for medical purposes with a focus on dermatology. Extracts of AP have been investigated in vitro and in vivo. The alga is rich in proteins, lipopolysaccharides and gamma-linolenic acid. AP extracts, phycocyanin compounds and polysaccharide calcium spirulan (Ca-SP) have been evaluated in various models. It could be demonstrated, that AP has significant antioxidant activity, prevents viruses from entry into target cells and inhibits the colonisation of wounds by multi-resistant bacteria. Furthermore, anti-cancer activity was documented in models of oral cancer, melanoma, and UV-induced non-melanoma skin cancer.

Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) supplementation improves growth performance, feed utilization, immune response, and relieves oxidative stress in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) challenged with Pseudomonas fluorescens

One hundred and eighty Nile tilapia fish were used in eighty-three-day growth trial. Fish were divided into three treatment groups. The first group T0 was given the basal diet without any supplementation and served as the control group. The second group T1 was given the basal diet supplemented by 1% Spirulina. The third group T2 was given the basal diet supplemented by 2% Spirulina. At the end of the growth performance trial, a challenge trial was conducted using virulent strain of Pseudomonas fluorescens. Clinical signs, mortalities, postmortem lesions and histopathological alterations were recorded. Hematological, biochemical, oxidative stress and immunological parameters were measured after challenge with Pseudomonas fluorescens. Growth performance was non significantly improved in tilapia fed the diet with 1% Spirulina supplementation (T1). There were neither signs nor mortalities among fishes belonging to 1% Spirulina challenged group. The results showed that Spirulina has a positive effect on hematological, biochemical parameters, MDA, SOD and CAT at T1 (1% spirulia) rather than T2 (2%spirulia). Moreover, the results indicate that Spirulina 1% enhanced bactericidal, phagocytic and lysozyme activities conferring protection against infection. Our results demonstrated a significant up-regulation of pro-inflammatory cytokine (IL-1β and TNF-α) and a down-regulation of anti-inflammatory cytokine (IL-10). We concluded that 1% Spirulina supplementation significantly improved immunity of Nile tilapia against Pseudomonas fluorescence than 2% Spirulina supplementation.

Effects of Spirulina platensis on lipid peroxidation, antioxidant defenses, and tissue damage in kidney of alloxan-induced diabetic rats

Chronic hyperglycemia in diabetes causes free radicals overproduction, which contributes to the development of diabetic nephropathy. In modern medicine, no satisfactory therapy is available to cure diabetes mellitus. In that context, we investigated the potential therapeutic action of spirulina-enriched diet on renal impairment and oxidative stress in diabetic rats. Diabetes was induced by a single subcutaneous injection of alloxan (120 mg·kg^-1) in rats. Following alloxan treatment, male Wistar rats were fed daily with 5% spirulina-enriched diet or treated with insulin (0.5 IU·rat^-1) for 3 weeks. Diabetes was associated with hyperglycemia, increase in renal oxidative parameters (lipid peroxidation, thiobarbituric-acid reactive substances, protein carbonyl and advanced oxidation protein products levels, changes in antioxidant enzyme activities), and nephropathology markers. The renal injury induced by alloxan was confirmed by histological study of the diabetic rat kidney. Treatment with spirulina or insulin significantly ameliorated renal dysfunction by reducing oxidative stress, while rats recovered normal kidney histology. Overall, this study indicates that spirulina is efficient in inhibiting hyperglycemia and oxidative stress induced by diabetes, and suggests that the administration of this alga may be helpful in the prevention of diabetic complications. This amelioration was even more pronounced than that caused by insulin injection.

Hepatoprotective efficacy of Spirulina platensis against lead-induced oxidative stress and genotoxicity in catfish; Clarias gariepinus

Lead (Pb) is a toxic environmental pollutant that induces a broad range of biochemical and physiological hazards in living organisms. We investigated the possible hepatoprotective effects of Spirulina platensis (SP) in counteracting the Pb-induced oxidative damage. Ninety-six adult African catfish were allocated into four equal groups. The 1st group (control) fed basal diet while the 2nd group (Pb-treated) fed on basal diet and exposed to 1mg Pb(NO₃)₂/L. The 3rd and 4th groups fed SP-supplemented basal diets at levels of 0.25% and 0.5%, respectively and exposed to Pb. Serum samples were used to analyze hepatic function biomarkers, electrolytes, and oxidant and antioxidant status. Lipid peroxidation and DNA fragmentation were determined in the liver tissues. Pb exposure induced hepatic dysfunction, electrolytes (Na⁺, K⁺, Ca⁺², and Cl^-) imbalance, as well a significant decrease in GSH content, and LDH, AChE, SOD, CAT and GST enzymes activity. SP supplementation reverted these biochemical and genetic alterations close to control levels. This amelioration was higher with 0.5% SP and at the 4th week of exposure, showing concentration- and time-dependency. Thus, the current study suggests that SP could protect the catfish liver against lead-induced injury by scavenging ROS, sustaining the antioxidant status and diminishing DNA oxidative damage. The dietary inclusion of SP can be used as a promising protective agent to counteract oxidative stress-mediated diseases and toxicities.

Effect of Honey and Royal Jelly against Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity in Patients with Cancer

OBJECTIVES

Cisplatin constitutes one of the most potent antineoplastic drugs; however, nephrotoxicity limited its eligibility for optimal clinical use. This study was designed to evaluate the role of honey and royal jelly with antioxidant properties in the protection of cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury in patients with cancer.

METHODS

Patients with cancer assigned for cisplatin chemotherapy were randomly divided into bee honey and royal jelly groups pretreated before the initiation and during cisplatin chemotherapeutic regimen and control group on cisplatin only. Serum creatinine and urea levels were measured before and after the chemotherapeutic cycle and over 2 cycles.

RESULTS

Patients on crude bee honey and royal jelly capsules showed lower serum levels of renal injury products (creatinine and urea) compared to those in the control group. The changes in kidney parameters were significantly (p < 0.05) lower when compared within the bee honey group before and after cisplatin treatment. Royal jelly was found to be effective; however, the difference in creatinine and urea levels before and after chemotherapy was not statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of bee honey and royal jelly as natural compounds is effective in reducing cisplatin nephrotoxicity and may offer a promising chance for clinically meaningful prevention. This study has potentially important implications for the treatment of cisplatin kidney side effects and is considered to be the first to investigate this effect of honey and royal jelly in human subjects. However, due to its small sample size, we recommend further investigation using a larger sample size.

Effect of pycnogenol and spirulina on vancomycin-induced renal cortical oxidative stress, apoptosis, and autophagy in adult male albino rat

Vancomycin-induced nephrotoxicity has been reported to occur in 5%-25% of patients who were administered with it. Several natural antioxidants were found to be effective against drug-induced toxicity. We evaluated the possible protective effects of spirulina and pycnogenol alone or in combination on vancomycin-induced renal cortical oxidative stress. Forty-nine rats were randomly divided into 7 groups: group I, control; group II, received spirulina 1000 mg/kg per day; group III, received pycnogenol 200 mg/kg per day; group IV, received vancomycin 200 mg/kg per day every 12 h; group V, (spirulina + vancomycin); group VI, (pycnogenol + vancomycin); and group VII, (pycnogenol + spirulina + vancomycin). At the end of the experiment, kidney functions were estimated and then the kidneys were removed, weighed, and sampled for histopathological, immunohistochemistry, and biochemical studies. Administration of spirulina and pycnogenol alone or in combination decreased elevated serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, renal malondialdehyde, and immunoexpression of the proapoptotic protein (Bax), autophagic marker protein (LC3/B), and inducible nitric oxide synthase induced by vancomycin. They increased reduced glutathione, glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and immunoexpression of the antiapoptotic protein (Bcl2). They also ameliorated the morphological changes induced by vancomycin. The combination therapy of spirulina and pycnogenol showed better protective effects than the corresponding monotherapy.

Role of pH on antioxidants production by Spirulina (Arthrospira) platensis

Algae can tolerate a broad range of growing conditions but extreme conditions may lead to the generation of highly dangerous reactive oxygen species (ROS), which may cause the deterioration of cell metabolism and damage cellular components. The antioxidants produced by algae alleviate the harmful effects of ROS. While the enhancement of antioxidant production in blue green algae under stress has been reported, the antioxidant response to changes in pH levels requires further investigation. This study presents the effect of pH changes on the antioxidant activity and productivity of the blue green alga Spirulina (Arthrospira) platensis. The algal dry weight (DW) was greatly enhanced at pH 9.0. The highest content of chlorophyll a and carotenoids (10.6 and 2.4mg/g DW, respectively) was recorded at pH 8.5. The highest phenolic content (12.1mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/g DW) was recorded at pH 9.5. The maximum production of total phycobiliprotein (159mg/g DW) was obtained at pH 9.0. The antioxidant activities of radical scavenging activity, reducing power and chelating activity were highest at pH 9.0 with an increase of 567, 250 and 206% compared to the positive control, respectively. Variation in the activity of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and peroxidase (POD) was also reported. While the high alkaline pH may favor the overproduction of antioxidants, normal cell metabolism and membrane function is unaffected, as shown by growth and chlorophyll content, which suggests that these conditions are suitable for further studies on the harvest of antioxidants from S. platensis.

Modulating Effects of Spirulina platensis against Tilmicosin-Induced Cardiotoxicity in Mice

Objective

Tilmicosin (TIL) is a long-acting macrolide antibiotic used to treat cattle for pathogens that cause bovine respiratory disease. However, overdoses of this medication have been reported to induce cardiac damage. Our experimental objective was to evaluate the protective effects of Spirulina platensis (SP) administration against TIL-induced cardiotoxicity in mice.

Materials and Methods

Our experimental in vivo animal study used 40 male albino mice that were divided into five groups of eight mice per group. The first group served as a control group and was injected with saline. The second group received SP at dose of 1000 mg/kg body weight for five days. The third group received a single dose of TIL (75 mg/kg, subcutaneously). Groups 4 and 5 were given SP at doses of 500 and 1000 mg/kg body weight for five consecutive days just before administration of TIL at the same dose and regimen used for group 3.

Results

TIL treated animals showed a significant increase in serum cardiac injury biomarkers as well as cardiac lipid peroxidation, however they had evidence of an inhibition in antioxidant biomarkers. SP normalized elevated serum levels of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine kinase (CK), and CK-MB. Furthermore, SP reduced TIL-induced lipid peroxidation and oxidative stress in a dose-dependent manner.

Conclusion

Administration of SP minimized the toxic effects of TIL by its free radicalscavenging and potent antioxidant activity.

Protective effects of thymol against nephrotoxicity induced by cisplatin with using 99mTc-DMSA in mice

BACKGROUND

In this study, we investigated the protective effect of thymol as a natural compound against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity by quantitative renal 99mTc-DMSA uptake and compared its effect with histopathology in mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Mice were divided into six groups as control, cisplatin (7.5 mg/kg, intraperitoneally), thymol+cisplatin (thymol; 50 and 150 mg/kg+cisplatin; 7.5 mg/kg) and thymol (50 and 150 mg/kg). Thymol was orally administrated for two days before cisplatin injection and continued for 4 days. (99m)Tc-DMSA was injected through the tail of mice after the drug administration. The percentage of the injected dose per gram of kidney tissue (%ID/g) was calculated. In other experiment, kidneys of treated mice were assessed for histopathology.

RESULTS

99mTc-DMSA uptake per gram tissue of the kidneys as %ID/g was 85.27±21.81, 45.55±5.50, 65.02±32.21 and 88.46±20.46 in the control, cisplatin, thymol (50 mg/kg)+cisplatin and thymol (150 mg/kg)+cisplatin. Thymol administration with cisplatin resulted in a significant increase in the level of %ID/g. Histopathological examinations showed a protective effect of thymol against cisplatin nephrotoxicity in mice.

CONCLUSION

The results showed that thymol significantly attenuates the cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in mice, and 99mTc-DMSA uptake in kidney is a suitable method for assessment of nephrotoxicity in mice.

Potentiation of cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity by repeated exposure to diesel exhaust particles: An experimental study in rats

Several epidemiological and clinical studies have shown that exposure to particulate air pollution is associated with increases in morbidity and mortality, and this is more evident in patients with renal diseases. However, the basis of the possible exacerbating effect of particulate air pollution on animal model of renal injury has received scant attention. Here, we assessed the effect of repeated exposure to diesel exhaust particles (DEP) on cisplatin (CP)-induced nephrotoxicity in rats. DEP (0.5 m/kg) was intratracheally (i.t.) instilled every second day for eight days (a total of five exposures). CP, 6 mg/kg was given 1 h before the third exposure to DEP. Two days following the last exposure to either DEP or saline (control), various renal endpoints were measured. Water intake, urine volume, and relative kidney weight were significantly increased in CP + DEP versus DEP and CP + saline versus saline. Plasma creatinine increased and creatinine clearance decreased in CP + DEP versus DEP and CP + saline versus saline. Interestingly, blood urea nitrogen, albumin concentrations, and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) activity in urine were significantly increased in DEP + CP compared with either DEP or saline + CP. The combination of DEP and CP enhanced kidney injury molecule-1, neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin, 8-isoprostane and total nitric oxide in the kidney compared with either saline + CP or DEP. Similarly, systolic blood pressure was increased in CP + DEP versus CP + saline or DEP. The renal tubular necrosis observed in kidneys of CP-treated rats was aggravated by the combination of CP + DEP. We conclude that repeated exposure to DEP potentiated CP-induced nephrotoxicity. Our data provide experimental evidence that patients with kidney injury could be at higher risk than the general population.

Protective effect of Hygrophila spinosa against cisplatin induced nephrotoxicity in rats

Objective:

To evaluate the nephroprotective effect of methanolic extract of Hygrophila spinosa (HSME) (Acanthaceae) in (CP)-induced acute renal failure in rats.

Materials and Methods:

HSME (250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg body weight), were administered orally to male wistar albino rats.CP was used to induce acute renal failure. The parameters studied included blood urea and serum creatinine and malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and GSH peroxidase activities. Histopathological examination was also carried out.

Results:

The results revealed that HSME pretreatment signiûcantly reduced blood urea and serum creatinine levels elevated by CP administration. Furthermore, HSME signiûcantly attenuated CP-induced increase in MDA and decrease in reduced GSH, and CAT and SOD and GSH peroxidase activities in renal cortical homogenates. Additionally, histopathological examination showed that HSME markedly ameliorated CP-induced renal tubular necrosis.

Conclusion:

The results indicate that the aerial parts of H. spinosa are endowed with nephroprotective activity.

Beneficial effects of short-term calorie restriction against cisplatin-induced acute renal injury in aged rats

BACKGROUND

The therapeutic use of the antineoplastic drug cisplatin (DDP) in the elderly is limited by its nephrotoxic effects. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of short-term calorie restriction (CR) on DDP-induced nephrotoxicity in aged rats.

METHODS

A group of 25-month-old male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into two groups: ad libitum (AL) and CR, which were fed 60% of the food consumed by AL rats for 8 weeks. The two groups were each further randomly divided into two subgroups: OAL control, OAL+DDP, OCR control, and OCR+DDP. A single dose of DDP (6 mg/kg) was injected intraperitoneally. Functional and structural changes of the kidneys were evaluated quantitatively by biochemical, histopathological, and morphometric analyses.

RESULTS

At the end of the 8 weeks, rats in the OCR group lost 14.8% more body mass than rats in the OAL group. Pretreatment with CR had several effects: (1) it reduced the levels of blood urea nitrogen and serum creatinine, (2) it reduced the magnitude of the renal tubular epithelial damage, and (3) it significantly reduced the incidence of activated caspase-3 and TUNEL-positive cells in kidneys injured by DDP. However, SIRT1 had the opposite trend after DDP application between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Short-term CR exhibits a renoprotective effect in experimental DDP-induced renal injury, the mechanism of which may involve CR antiapoptotic effects and promotion of SIRT1.

C-Phycocyanin prevents cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity through inhibition of oxidative stress

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the antioxidant C-phycocyanin (C-PC, 5–30 mg kg⁻¹ i.p.) was able to prevent cisplatin (CP, 18 mg kg⁻¹ i.p.) induced nephrotoxicity by reducing oxidative stress in CD-1 mice.

Inhibitory Effects of Spirulina platensis on Carcinogen-Activating Cytochrome P450 Isozymes and Potential for Drug Interactions

Spirulina platensis (SP) has been considered as potential food source of 21st century due to its remarkable nutrient profile and therapeutic benefits. However, the cytochrome P450 (CYP)-mediated drug/chemical interaction potential of SP has not yet been pursued. We investigated the effects of SP on the expressions and enzymatic activities of main CYP isozymes. After the rats were orally administered with SP daily for 5 consecutive weeks, there were significant downregulations in hepatic expression levels and inhibition in enzymatic activities of CYP1A2 and CYP2E1 compared to controls. In addition, a significant decrease was observed in CYP2C6-associated enzyme activity with no remarkable changes in messenger RNA (mRNA)/protein levels. The SP application resulted in significant increases in mRNA/protein levels of both CYP2B1 and CYP3A1 without a significant change in enzyme activities. These findings partly explain the chemopreventive properties of SP toward various organ toxicities, mutagenesis, and carcinogenesis; however, its coadministration with some CYP substrates may lead to undesirable drug interactions.

Protective role of Spirulina platensis against acute deltamethrin-induced toxicity in rats

Deltamethrin is a broad-spectrum synthetic pyrethroid insecticide and acaricide widely used for agricultural and veterinary purposes. However, its human and animal exposure leads to hepatonephrotoxicity. Therefore, the present study was undertaken to examine the hepatonephroprotective and antioxidant potential of Spirulina platensis against deltamethrin toxicity in male Wistar albino rats. Deltamethrin treated animals revealed a significant increase in serum biochemical parameters as well as hepatic and renal lipid peroxidation but caused an inhibition in antioxidant biomarkers. Spirulina normalized the elevated serum levels of AST, ALT, APL, uric acid, urea and creatinine. Furthermore, it reduced deltamethrin-induced lipid peroxidation and oxidative stress in a dose dependent manner. Therefore, it could be concluded that spirulina administration able to minimize the toxic effects of deltamethrin by its free radical-scavenging and potent antioxidant activity.

Optimization of a process for high fibre and high protein biscuit

Biscuits are popular and convenient food products due to their ready to eat nature. Biscuits were prepared from sorghum and whole wheat flour with the addition of spirulina (Spirulina platensis) powder to produce high fibre and high protein biscuit. Levels of ingredients in biscuits such as spirulina powder, sorghum flour and guar gum were optimized using response surface methodology (RSM) for its sensory, textural and antioxidant attributes. Sensory attributes as colour intensity (R2 = 0.89, P < 0.0001), flavor (R2 = 0.98, P < 0.0001), sweetness (R2 = 0.97, P < 0.0001), graininess (R2 = 0.99, P < 0.0001), and crispiness (R2 = 0.94, P < 0.0001), textural attributes as hardness (R2 = 0.95, P < 0.0001) and fracturability (R2 = 0.96, P < 0.0001), antioxidant activity as DPPH inhibition (R2 = 0.87, P < 0.0001) and antioxidant activity as ABTS inhibition (R2 = 0.98, P < 0.0001) were significantly related to processing parameters of biscuit. Rheological characteristics (TPA and extensograph) of biscuit dough were measured. Studies indicated that amongst all the processing parameters, the composition of spirulina powder and sorghum flour was found to have significant effect on the responses.

Does aliskiren protect the kidney following ischemia reperfusion injury?

The effect of blocking the first and rate-limiting step in renin-angiotensin cascade on the renal function in ischemia reperfusion injury has not been previously investigated. We investigated the effect of aliskiren, the first approved direct oral renin inhibitor, on the alterations in renal functional parameters in this condition. Wistar rats underwent left renal ischemia for 40 min. Group-1 received normal saline whereas Group-2 received aliskiren (30 mg/kg/day) by gavage for 6 days commencing one day before IRI. The hemodynamic and tubular functions and gene expression of neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) and plasminogen activating inhibitor (PAI-1) in the right and left kidneys were measured five days following the IRI. Comparing Group-1 and Group-2, the left renal blood flow was significantly higher in Group-2 (1.28+/-0.36 vs. 0.39+/-0.05, P=0.007). Left kidney glomerular filtration rate was also higher in Group-2 but did not reach statistical significance (0.18+/-0.05 vs. 0.10+/-0.02, P=0.07). The left renal FE(Na) was significantly lower in Group-2 (29.9+/-6.4 vs. 49.7+/-7.8, P=0.03). Aliskiren also caused a significant decrease in the gene expression of both NGAL and PAI-1 in the left ischemic kidney. In conclusions, the administration of aliskiren before and after IRI appears to have ameliorated the IRI effect on the total renal artery blood flow, fractional excretion of sodium and gene expression of both NGAL and PAI-1 indicating a renoprotective effects in IRI.

Vitamin E, Vitamin C, or Losartan Is Not Nephroprotectant against Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity in Presence of Estrogen in Ovariectomized Rat Model

Background. The nephroprotective effect of vitamins E and C or losartan against cisplatin (CP)- induced nephrotoxicity when they are accompanied by estrogen was investigated. Methods. The ovariectomized rats received estradiol valerate for two weeks. At the end of the first week, a single dose of CP (7 mg/kg, IP) was also administered, and they received placebo (group 1), vitamin E (group 2), vitamin C (group 3), or losartan (group 4) every day during the second week, and they were compared with another three control groups. Results. CP alone increased the serum levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine (Cr), and kidney tissue damage score (KTDS), significantly (P < 0.05), however at the presence of estradiol and CP, vitamin C, vitamin E, or losartan not only did not decrease these parameters, but also increased them significantly (P < 0.05). The serum level of superoxidase dismutase (SOD) was reduced by CP (P < 0.05), but it was increased when estradiol or estradiol plus vitamin C or losartan were added (P < 0.05). Conclusion. The particular pharmacological dose of estrogen used in this study abolish the nephroprotective effects vitamins C and E or losartan against CP-induced nephrotoxicity.

Curcumin provides incomplete protection of the kidney in ischemia reperfusion injury

Curcumin, a component of the spice turmeric, was shown to have a protective effect on acute kidney injury markers following ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI). However, its effect on glomerular and tubular renal functions following IRI is not known and this data is probably of more clinical relevance. In this study, curcumin was tested for its effect on renal functional parameters following two different periods of warm IRI in the rat. Groups V-30 (n=10) and C-30 (n=10) underwent ischemia for 30 minutes whereas groups V-45 (n=8) and C-45 (n=8) underwent ischemia for 45 minutes. C-30 and C-45 received oral curcumin (200 mg/kg/day) whereas V-30 and V-45 received a vehicle. The left renal artery blood flow was measured by a flowmeter before and 15 minutes after reperfusion. Serum TNF-alpha was measured before and 2 days after ischemia. The function of both kidneys was measured 2 days following ischemia using clearance technique. IRI caused significant increase in TNF-alpha in all groups. Curcumin significantly ameliorated the ischemia-induced alterations in serum TNF-alpha and associated histological changes but did not affect the alterations in renal artery blood flow, glomerular (glomerular filtration rate, renal blood flow) or tubular (urinary volume, urinary sodium and fractional excretion of sodium) functions following 30 or 45 min of IRI.

Cilastatin protects against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity without compromising its anticancer efficiency in rats

Cisplatin is an anticancer agent marred by nephrotoxicity; however, limiting this adverse effect may allow the use of higher doses to improve its efficacy. Cilastatin, a small molecule inhibitor of renal dehydropeptidase I, prevents proximal tubular cells from undergoing cisplatin-induced apoptosis in vitro. Here, we explored the in vivo relevance of these findings and the specificity of protection for kidney cells in cisplatin-treated rats. Cisplatin increased serum blood urea nitrogen and creatinine levels, and the fractional excretion of sodium. Cisplatin decreased the glomerular filtration rate, promoted histological renal injury and the expression of many pro-apoptotic proteins in the renal cortex, increased the Bax/Bcl2 ratio, and oxidative stress in kidney tissue and urine. All these features were decreased by cilastatin, which preserved renal function but did not modify the pharmacokinetics of cisplatin area under the curve. The cisplatin-induced death of cervical, colon, breast, and bladder-derived cancer cell lines was not prevented by cilastatin. Thus, cilastatin has the potential to prevent cisplatin nephrotoxicity without compromising its anticancer efficacy.

Modulation of DNA damage and alteration of gene expression during aflatoxicosis via dietary supplementation of Spirulina (Arthrospira) and Whey protein concentrate

Spirulina (SPN) and Whey protein (WPC) are being touted as functional foods with a number of health benefits. SPN is blue green algae while WPC is a protein complex derived from milk and both have strong antioxidant activity and provoke a free radical scavenging enzyme system. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the antioxidant potentials of SPN and WPC to regulate the alteration of genes' expression and counteract oxidative stress in rats during aflatoxecosis. Eighty male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into eight groups, which included the control group, the group fed with aflatoxins (AFs)-contaminated diet (2.5 mg/kg diet) for 30 day, the group treated orally with WPC (300 mg/kg b.w.), the group treated orally with SPN (50 mg/kg b.w), the group treated orally with WPC plus SPN and the groups fed with AFs-contaminated diet and treated orally with WPC, SPN and/or WPC. Oxidative stress markers and gene expression were assayed in liver and testis and the damage of DNA was evaluated by DNA fragmentation and micronucleus tests. The results demonstrated that supplementation of SPN and/or WPC reduced the oxidative stress induced by AFs as indicated by decreased lipid peroxidation level, increased glutathione content and up-regulated PHGPx gene expression. Both agents succeed to inhibit DNA damage as indicated by the down-regulation of Fas gene expression, and decreased the percentage of DNA fragmentation and micronucleated erythrocytes. Moreover, WPC was found to be effective than SPN and the combined treatment was more effective than the single treatment. It could be concluded that both SPN and WPC induced a protective action and regulated the alteration of genes expression induced by AFs; however, the combined treatment may be useful than the single treatment.

Beneficial effects of montelukast against cisplatin-induced acute renal damage in rats

OBJECTIVE

In this study, the therapeutic and protective effects of montelukast against cisplatin (CP)-induced acute renal damage were investigated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty-five female rats were divided into five groups as follows: (1) control, (2) montelukast (10 mg/kg daily for 10 days per-oral (p.o.), (3) CP (single dose 7 mg/kg intraperitoneally (i.p.)), (4) CP + montelukast (10 mg/kg daily for 10 days p.o., after 3 days of the injection of CP), (5) montelukast (10 mg/kg daily for 10 days p.o.) + CP (single dose 7 mg/kg i.p., after the last dose of montelukast). At the end of the experiment, malondialdehyde (MDA), a lipid peroxidation product, myeloperoxidase (MPO), and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels were determined in the renal tissue. Also, blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine (Cr) levels were assayed from the trunk blood samples.

RESULTS

CP treatment caused a significant elevation of MDA, MPO, BUN, and Cr levels when compared with the control group. Also, GSH levels were found to be reduced due to the CP treatment. Montelukast administration after CP injection ameliorated all of these parameters. Our histopathological findings (marked swelling of epithelial cells, tubular dilatation, tubular desquamation, and loss of brush border in the kidney) were consistent with the biochemical results.

CONCLUSION

Montelukast treatment after CP injection exerted therapeutic effects against CP-induced acute kidney damage.