Ameliorating activity of ginger (Zingiber officinale) extract against lead induced renal toxicity in male rats

Extraction, Phytochemical profile, and neuroprotective activity of Phyllanthus emblica fruit extract against sodium valproate-induced postnatal autism in BALB/c mice

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of the ethyl acetate fraction of amla (EAFA) extract on valproic acid (VPA)-induced postnatal autism in BALB/c mice. Our study revealed that mice treated with VPA on postnatal day 14 (PND14) showed significant abnormal behaviours such as social interaction, social affiliation, anxiety, and motor coordination compared to the control group, while EAFA extract treatment (100 mg/kg) ameliorated these symptoms. Our study highlights the protective effect of EAFA extract on improving behavioural alterations, significantly restoring anti-oxidative enzymes such as GST and GR, and reducing MDA and NO levels. Furthermore, the EAFA-treated group significantly lowered the proinflammatory markers (IL-1β and TNF-α) and the expression of up-regulated 5-HT1D, 5-HT2A, and D2 receptor proteins. Based on histopathological studies, the percentage of neuronal injury in the EAFA-treated group as well as cellular structural changes were reduced using SEM analysis. In conclusion, the present study suggests that treatment with EAFA extract ameliorates VPA-induced autism due to its anti-oxidant and neuroprotective activity.

Exploring the Antioxidative Effects of Ginger and Cinnamon: A Comprehensive Review of Evidence and Molecular Mechanisms Involved in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Other Oxidative Stress-Related Disorders

Oxidative stress represents the pathophysiological basis for most disorders, including reproductive issues. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is heterogeneous endocrine disorder of women characterized primarily by irregular menstrual cycles, hyper-androgenism, and ovulatory dysfunction. In the last decades, PCOS was recognized as a systemic silent inflammation and an oxidative disturbance-related disorder, exerting multifaceted symptoms, including metabolic. PCOS treatment should involve a personalized approach tailored to individual symptoms; however, the results are often unsatisfactory. Various supplementary treatments have been proposed to assist in the management and alleviation of PCOS symptoms. Cinnamon and ginger, known for millennia as herbs used in spices or traditional medicine for the treatment of various diseases, are of interest in this study. The aim of this study is to evaluate and investigate the effects of cinnamon and ginger in PCOS patients. Using relevant keywords we searched through PubMed/MEDLINE, Science Direct, Google Scholar and Web of science to find animal studies, pre-clinical, and clinical studies which were then reviewed for usage. Out of all of the reviewed studies a total of 65 studies were included in this review article. Cinnamon and ginger can affect hormonal status, lipid profile, obesity, and insulin resistance by mitigating oxidative stress and inflammation. Generally, based on current clinical evidence, it was revealed that supplementation with cinnamon or ginger had a useful impact in patients with PCOS. This review summarizes the antioxidative effects of ginger and cinnamon in PCOS treatment, highlighting their potential benefits in other oxidative stress-related pathologies.

A novel mushroom (Auricularia polytricha) glycoprotein protects against lead-induced hepatoxicity, promotes lead adsorption, inhibits organ accumulation of lead, upregulates detoxifying proteins, and enhances immunoregulation in rats

Introduction

Lead is a ubiquitous environmental and industrial pollutant. Its nonbiodegradable toxicity induces a plethora of human diseases. A novel bioactive glycoprotein containing 1.15% carbohydrate, with the ability of adsorbing lead and effecting detoxification, has been purified from Auricularia polytricha and designated as APL. Besides, its mechanisms related to regulation of hepatic metabolic derangements at the proteome level were analyzed in this study.

Methods

Chromatographic techniques were utilized to purify APL in the current study. For investigating the protective effects of APL, Sprague-Dawley rats were given daily intraperitoneal injections of lead acetate for establishment of an animal model, and different dosages of APL were gastrically irrigated for study of protection from lead detoxification. Liver samples were prepared for proteomic analyses to explore the detoxification mechanisms.

Results and discussion

The detoxifying glycoprotein APL displayed unique molecular properties with molecular weight of 252-kDa, was isolated from fruiting bodies of the edible fungus A. polytricha. The serum concentrations of lead and the liver function biomarkers aspartate and alanine aminotransferases were significantly (p<0.05) improved after APL treatment, as well as following treatment with the positive control EDTA (300 mg/kg body weight). Likewise, results on lead residue showed that the clearance ratios of the liver and kidneys were respectively 44.5% and 18.1% at the dosage of APL 160 mg/kg, which was even better than the corresponding data for EDTA. Proteomics disclosed that 351 proteins were differentially expressed following lead exposure and the expression levels of 41 proteins enriched in pathways mainly involved in cell detoxification and immune regulation were normalized after treatment with APL-H. The results signify that APL ameliorates lead-induced hepatic injury by positive regulation of immune processing, and suggest that APL can be applied as a therapeutic intervention of lead poisoning in clinical practice. This report represents the first demonstration of the protective action of a novel mushroom protein on lead-elicited hepatic toxicity.

Ginkgo biloba Supplement Reverses Lead (II) Acetate-Induced Haematological Imbalances, Hepatic and Renal Dysfunctions in Male Wistar Rat

Lead is a heavy metal abundant in nature that causes haematological imbalances, and hepatic and renal dysfunction, and this imbalance has been linked to oxidative stress. Several reports have shown that natural products are implicated in ameliorating metal poisonings. Ginkgo biloba is a flavonoid-rich natural herbal supplement with several pharmacological properties. The present study investigated effect of Ginkgo biloba supplement (GBS) on lead-induced toxicity. Animals were given a lead dose of 25 mg/kg for 14 days orally and then given Ginkgo biloba supplements of 50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg orally for 14 days. Animals given GBS had significantly improved haematological and rheological parameters. GBS showed a protective impact in terms of improved kidney and liver histology, anti-oxidant enzyme activity (CAT, SOD, GSH, and MDA), organ function indices, and a lower rate of erythrocyte osmotic fragility. Conclusively, Ginkgo biloba supplementation attenuated lead toxicity by normalization of haematological imbalances, and hepatic and renal dysfunction as well as maintaining erythrocyte membrane integrity.

Hepatorenal Protective Effect of Fenugreek Aqueous Extract against Lead Toxicity in Experimental Rats

In this study, aqueous extract of germinated fenugreek seeds was investigated to assess its therapeutic effect on hepatorenal lead toxicity in experimental rats. After overnight fasting, rats were injected intraperitoneally with 0.5 mL of lead acetate at a dose of 35 mg/kg body weight for five consecutive days. Animals were divided into four groups of ten rats each: normal control; untreated negative control and rats treated with 200 or 400 mg/kg body weight of the aqueous extract. Treatments were performed by intraperitoneal injection of 1mL of the extract once a day for 28 consecutive days. Results showed significant differences between treated and control groups during the whole period of the experiment. This was demonstrated by improving body weight and level of serum total protein, decreasing levels of serum ALT, AST, total bilirubin, blood urea nitrogen, and creatinine. As well, histological analysis revealed a marked reduction in inflammation and structural alterations of liver and kidney organs of fenugreek-treated rats. This hepatoprotective effect can be attributed to the anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and regenerative capacity of the high content of the phytochemical constituents in the extract.

Therapeutic roles of plants for 15 hypothesised causal bases of Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is progressive and ultimately fatal, with current drugs failing to reverse and cure it. This study aimed to find plant species which may provide therapeutic bioactivities targeted to causal agents proposed to be driving AD. A novel toolkit methodology was employed, whereby clinical symptoms were translated into categories recognized in ethnomedicine. These categories were applied to find plant species with therapeutic effects, mined from ethnomedical surveys. Survey locations were mapped to assess how this data is at risk. Bioactivities were found of therapeutic relevance to 15 hypothesised causal bases for AD. 107 species with an ethnological report of memory improvement demonstrated therapeutic activity for all these 15 causal bases. The majority of the surveys were found to reside within biodiversity hotspots (centres of high biodiversity under threat), with loss of traditional knowledge the most common threat. Our findings suggest that the documented plants provide a large resource of AD therapeutic potential. In demonstrating bioactivities targeted to these causal bases, such plants may have the capacity to reduce or reverse AD, with promise as drug leads to target multiple AD hallmarks. However, there is a need to preserve ethnomedical knowledge, and the habitats on which this knowledge depends.

Pharmacological Effects of Cisplatin Combination with Natural Products in Cancer Chemotherapy

Cisplatin and other platinum-based drugs, such as carboplatin, ormaplatin, and oxaliplatin, have been widely used to treat a multitude of human cancers. However, a considerable proportion of patients often relapse due to drug resistance and/or toxicity to multiple organs including the liver, kidneys, gastrointestinal tract, and the cardiovascular, hematologic, and nervous systems. In this study, we sought to provide a comprehensive review of the current state of the science highlighting the use of cisplatin in cancer therapy, with a special emphasis on its molecular mechanisms of action, and treatment modalities including the combination therapy with natural products. Hence, we searched the literature using various scientific databases., such as MEDLINE, PubMed, Google Scholar, and relevant sources, to collect and review relevant publications on cisplatin, natural products, combination therapy, uses in cancer treatment, modes of action, and therapeutic strategies. Our search results revealed that new strategic approaches for cancer treatment, including the combination therapy of cisplatin and natural products, have been evaluated with some degree of success. Scientific evidence from both in vitro and in vivo studies demonstrates that many medicinal plants contain bioactive compounds that are promising candidates for the treatment of human diseases, and therefore represent an excellent source for drug discovery. In preclinical studies, it has been demonstrated that natural products not only enhance the therapeutic activity of cisplatin but also attenuate its chemotherapy-induced toxicity. Many experimental studies have also reported that natural products exert their therapeutic action by triggering apoptosis through modulation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and p53 signal transduction pathways and enhancement of cisplatin chemosensitivity. Furthermore, natural products protect against cisplatin-induced organ toxicity by modulating several gene transcription factors and inducing cell death through apoptosis and/or necrosis. In addition, formulations of cisplatin with polymeric, lipid, inorganic, and carbon-based nano-drug delivery systems have been found to delay drug release, prolong half-life, and reduce systemic toxicity while other formulations, such as nanocapsules, nanogels, and hydrogels, have been reported to enhance cell penetration, target cancer cells, and inhibit tumor progression.

Sex Differences in Animal Models of Sodium-Valproate-Induced Autism in Postnatal BALB/c Mice: Whole-Brain Histoarchitecture and 5-HT2A Receptor Biomarker Evidence

Simple Summary

Valproic acid (VPA) is a well-known antiepileptic medication and mood stabiliser that is frequently prescribed for the treatment of epilepsy, particularly in children, and has proven human teratogenic activity. VPA inhibits histone deacetylase, which causes teratogenicity and cell toxicity. VPA-induced autism in rodents during the pre- and postnatal periods has shown the development of an autism-like phenotype. In mice, the 14th postnatal day is thought to correspond to the third trimester of human development; it is an important period in which neuronal migration, differentiation, myelination, synaptogenesis and gliogenesis occur in the cerebellum, striatum and hippocampus. Therefore, we exposed postnatal day 14 (PND 14) mice to VPA, which resulted in autistic-like behaviours manifested as reduced social interaction, increased repetitive stereotyped behaviour and anxiety, cognitive dysfunction, lowered sensitivity to pain and neurodevelopmental delay. BALB/c mice were used in this work because they are less reactive to social contact in VPA-induced autism than many other inbred mouse strains, such as C57/129 mice. In humans, two to three times more men are affected by autism spectrum disorder (ASD) than women, and, for this reason, the current study compares the histopathological changes and 5-hydroxy-tryptamine 2A (5-HT2A) receptor protein expression in the brain tissue of male and female animals with VPA-induced autism.

Abstract

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterised by problems with social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication and repetitive behaviour. In mice, the 14th postnatal day is believed to correspond to the third trimester of human embryonic development and is considered a vital period for central nervous system development. It has been shown that ASD affects 2 to 3 times more male than female individuals. In the present study, ASD was induced in 14 postnatal day (PND) BALB/c mice using valproic acid (VPA). VPA administration brought about substantial differences in the histoarchitecture of the brain in both male and female mice, linked to behavioural deficits. We observed that both male and female mice showed similar morphological changes in the prefrontal cortex, hippocampus and Purkinje cells. We also observed hair loss from PND 17 to 25, which was again similar between male and female mice. However, there were higher rates of change in the cerebral cortex, frontal cortex and temporal lobe and hippocampus in VPA-treated male animals. With respect to the cerebellum, we did not observe any alterations by haematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, but detailed morphological observation using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed a higher rate of phenotype changes in VPA-treated male animals. Moreover, 5-HT2A receptor protein levels were upregulated in the cerebral cortex, hippocampus and Purkinje cells in VPA-treated male mice compared with control animals and VPA-treated female mice, as shown by immunohistochemical analysis. Based on all these findings, we conclude that male animals are more susceptible to VPA-induced ASD than females.

Cabbage juice protect against lead-induced liver and kidney damage in male Wistar rat

AIM

Liver and kidney has been implicated in Lead toxicity and this has been linked to oxidative damage. On the other hand, cabbage is one of the widely consumed vegetables with a plethora of health benefits. This present study investigated the protective effect of cabbage juice on lead-induced toxicity in male Wistar rats.

METHODS

Twenty male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups (n = 5) and were treated with distilled water (1 ml/100 g b.wt), Lead acetate (25 mg/kg b.wt), cabbage juice (1 ml/100 g b.wt) and Lead acetate plus cabbage juice respectively. All treatments were administered orally for 28 days. Following euthanasia, blood was collected and serum decanted for biochemical assay and liver and kidney tissues were harvested, prepared for antioxidant activity and histological study.

RESULT

Cabbage juice significantly attenuated Lead-induced liver and kidney dysfunction by lowering serum concentrations of urea, creatinine, ALP, AST and ALT. Antioxidants (SOD, CAT, GSH) were also upregulated in liver and kidney tissues. Cabbage juice restored the histoarchitectural changes caused by lead intoxication.

CONCLUSION

Cabbage juice consumption protected the liver and kidney against lead-induced toxicity by enhancing in vivo anti-oxidant defense system.

Natural products against cisplatin-induced male reproductive toxicity: A comprehensive review

Cisplatin is widely used as one of the most effective anticancer agents in the treatment of some neoplasms. Reproductive toxicity is the most common outcome associated with cisplatin testicular damage. Alternative natural medicines for treating male testicular disorders and infertility have received extensive attention in research. Natural products, medicinal herbs, and their secondary metabolites have been shown as promising agents in the management of testicular damage induced by chemotherapy drugs. This study aimed to review the research related to natural substances that are promising in mitigation of the cisplatin-induced toxicity in the reproductive system. PubMed and Scopus were searched for studies on various natural products for their potential protective property against reproductive toxicity induced by cisplatin from 2000 to 2020. Eligibility was checked based on selection criteria. Fifty-nine articles were included in this review. Mainly in animal studies, several natural agents have positively affected cisplatin-reproductive-toxicity factors, including reactive oxygen species, inflammatory mediators, DNA damage, and activation of the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway. Most of the natural agents were investigated in short-term duration and high doses of cisplatin exposure, considering their antioxidant activity against oxidative stress. Considering antioxidant properties, various natural products might be effective for the management of cisplatin reproductive toxicity. However, long-term recovery of spermatogenesis and management of low-dose-cisplatin toxicity should be considered as well as the bioavailability of these agents before and after treatment with cisplatin without affecting its anticancer activity.

Genetic susceptibility of δ-ALAD associated with lead (Pb) intoxication: sources of exposure, preventive measures, and treatment interventions

Delta-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (δ-ALAD) is involved in the synthesis of haem and exhibits a polymorphic nature. δ-ALAD polymorphism produces two alleles, namely δ-ALAD-1 and δ-ALAD-2, which in turn produce three different phenotypes, namely δ-ALAD1-1, δ-ALAD1-2, and δ-ALAD2-2. δ-ALAD gene is more susceptible to lead (Pb) toxicity than any other genes. Its genotype and phenotype frequencies change with respect to different geographical areas and extent of Pb exposure. The δ-ALAD-2 allele dominancy is linked with high concentration of lead in the body. It has also been thought that the δ-ALAD-2 allele can provoke Pb toxicity by producing a protein that binds more tightly with Pb than δ-ALAD-1 protein. However, few evidences suggest that δ-ALAD-2 may reduce harmful effects by increasing excretion of Pb from the body, thus producing its unavailability towards pathophysiologic alterations. However, the recent evidences have supported that the individuals who are heterozygote for the δ-ALAD-1 allele may be associated with a higher risk of long-term Pb toxicity. In this regard, the individuals who are exposed at occupational levels are among the most frequent study population. The main objective of our study was to explore the gene susceptibility associated with Pb poisoning. Moreover, this study also summarizes various sources of Pb exposure and thereafter outlined multiple strategies to minimize the Pb toxicity in order to save the exposed residential communities.

Coadministration of Ginger Extract and Fluconazole Shows a Synergistic Effect in the Treatment of Drug-Resistant Vulvovaginal Candidiasis

BACKGROUND

Azoles are the most common antifungal drugs used in the treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC). The frequency of azole-resistant Candida isolates has increased dramatically in the last two decades. Here, we assessed the antifungal activity of a combination of fluconazole (FLZ) and methanolic extract of ginger (Meth-Gin) against drug-resistant vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) in a murine model.

METHODS

The in vitro activity of FLZ or a combination of FLZ and Meth-Gin was determined against Candida albicans by the agar well diffusion, macrodilution, time-kill and the biofilm eradication methods. The therapeutic efficacy of the formulations was assessed by analyzing the fungal load, pro-inflammatory cytokines, percent apoptotic cells and the histological changes in the vaginal tissues of the mice. Moreover, the renal toxicity the drug formulation was evaluated by analyzing the levels of the blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine.

RESULTS

The results of in vitro study demonstrated that FLZ did not show any activity against C. albicans, whereas a combination of FLZ and Meth-Gin demonstrated greater activity as shown by the data of the zone of growth inhibition, MIC and time-kill assay. FLZ or Meth-Gin treatment could not completely cure VVC, whereas a combination of FLZ and Meth-Gin was greatly effective in the treatment of VVC. The vaginal tissue from mice of the infected control group had the highest fungal load of 155370 ± 20617 CFUs. Treatment with FLZ at a dose of 40 mg/kg reduced the fungal load to 120863 ± 10723 CFUs. Interestingly, the mice treated with a combination of FLZ (40 mg/kg) and Meth-Gin (200 mg/kg) had a fungal load of 256 ± 152 CFUs. Besides, FLZ and Meth-Gin combination effectively reduced the pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α and IL-17) and the percentage of apoptotic cells in the vaginal tissues. Likewise, the histological analysis revealed the epithelial necrosis, shedding and ulceration in the vaginal tissue, whereas treatment with FLZ and Meth-Gin combination reversed the histopathological changes in the vaginal epithelium and lamina propria.

CONCLUSION

The findings of the current study suggest that the co-administration of Meth-Gin and FLZ may have a potential therapeutic effect in the treatment of azole-resistant candidiasis.

Effect of ginger (Zingiber officinale) supplementation on oxidative stress parameters: A systematic review and meta-analysis

A wide variety of antioxidant properties are attributed to ginger (Zingiber officinale) and several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have investigated the effect of ginger intake on major oxidative stress (OS) parameters. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the effects of using ginger to improve OS levels. Medline, Scopus, ISI Web of Science, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were systematically searched up until March 2020 to gather RCTs that evaluated the impact of ginger intake on the levels and activity of OS parameters in adult subjects. Means and standard deviations for relevant OS variables were extracted and evaluated to assess the quality of the trials based on the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials. The gathered data were pooled and expressed as standardized mean difference (SMD) with 95% Confidence Intervals (95% CI). Twelve trials were included in this review. Ginger intake was shown to significantly increase glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity (SMD: 1.64; 95% CI: 0.43, 2.85; I2  = 86.8%) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) (SMD: 0.40; 95% CI: 0.06, 0.73; I2  = 42.8%) and significantly decrease malondialdehyde (MDA) levels (SMD: -0.69; 95% CI: -1.26, -0.12; I2  = 85.8%) compared to control groups. Ginger supplementation also non-significantly associated with an increase in CAT activity (SMD: 1.09; 95% CI: -0.07, 2.25; I2  = 87.6%). This systematic review and meta-analysis presents convincing evidence supporting the efficacy of ginger supplementation on improving OS levels. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: In health sciences, OS, due to its pivotal role in the pathophysiology of several chronic diseases, is a subject with a long history. Recent research strives for a safe, ideal, and effective antioxidant. Ginger is herbal medicine, which has been widely used in traditional and complementary medicine. Proving the antioxidant effect and potential benefit of ginger has positive clinical implications for the application of this practical herb.

Ginger (Zingiber officinale roscoe) extract could upregulate the renal expression of NRF2 and TNFα and prevents ethanol-induced toxicity in rat kidney

OBJECTIVE

Ginger has protective effects on the kidney, however the molecular mechanism of this effect has not yet been fully elucidated. Therefore, this work studied molecular mechanisms of ginger effects on ethanol-induced kidney injury.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty-four male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups: control, ginger (1 g/kg/day ginger extract by oral gavage), ethanol (4 g/kg/day ethanol by oral gavage) and ginger-ethanol group and treated daily for 28 days. Kidney function, expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α genes and oxidative stress parameters in kidney tissue, were evaluated. Total phenolic content (TPC) and 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging activity of ginger extract were also evaluated.

RESULTS

Hydroethanolic extract of ginger showed a good level of DPPH scavenging activity and TPC. In the ethanol group, serum level of urea, creatinine and uric acid and the expression of NRF2 and TNF-α significantly increased compared to control group, while co-treatment with ginger in ginger+ethanol group significantly ameliorated them compared to the ethanol group. Ethanol exposure significantly reduced the activity of superoxide dismutase  (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and catalase (CAT) compared to the control values ,while the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) significantly increased. Ginger significantly ameliorated the level of MDA and activity of SOD, GPx and CAT in the ginger-ethanol group compared to the ethanol group.

CONCLUSION

The results showed that ginger's protective effects against ethanol renotoxicity were mediated via enhancing the NRF2 and TNF-α expression.

Zingiber officinale Ethanolic Extract Attenuated Reserpine-Induced Depression-Like Condition and Associated Hippocampal Aberrations in Experimental Wistar Rats

BACKGROUND

Repeated and regimented treatment with reserpine causes depression-like condition characterized by persistent mood disorder, feelings of severe despondency and dejection, thus altering the hippocampal morphology. Our study compared a well-known antidepressant (fluoxetine), with the potential of Zingiber officinale to ameliorate reserpine-induced depression and the associated hippocampal cornu ammonis 1 (CA1) neuronal cell damage.

METHODS

Forty-eight male Wistar rats, weighing 130-160 g, were randomly assigned to 6 groups (n=8), housed in plastic cages under natural light and dark cycles at room temperature with access to feed and water ad libitum. Group-A (control) received distilled water. Group-B and Group-C orally received 400 mg/kg of Zingiber officinale and 10 mg/kg of fluoxetine, respectively, for 7 days, while Group-D intraperitoneally received 0.2 mg/kg of reserpine for 14 days. Group-E and Group-F intraperitoneally received 0.2 mg/kg of reserpine for 14 days followed by 400 mg/kg of Zingiber officinale and 10 mg/kg of fluoxetine respectively for 7 days. All animals were sacrificed by cervical dislocation at the end of experiment, and the brains hippocampi were dissected, excised and processed for various analyses including histology [H&E], histochemistry of GFAP expression by astrocytes and specific gene expressions including p53 gene, glutathione reductase (GSR), glutathione peroxidase and catalase (CAT).

RESULTS

Reserpine significantly depleted the expression of P53 and glutathione reductase (GSR) genes while significantly increasing the expression of glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPx-1) gene (P≤0.05). Also, a marked increase in the expression of catalase (CAT) gene was observed. Furthermore, histoarchitecture (photomicrographs) of hippocampus CA1 region showed disruption in the arrangement of pyramidal neurons and alterations in their morphologies when animals were treated with reserpine (Group D). There was also accompanying increased astrocyte densities within the CA1 region following reserpine treatment. These features indicated deleterious effects of reserpine. Both Zingiber officinale and fluoxetine treatments ameliorated these effects.

CONCLUSION

These findings showed structural and molecular alterations associated with reserpine-induced depression. Also, Zingiber officinale was effective to provide ameliorative and protective effects against the neurotoxic effects of reserpine in the hippocampus, making it a potential candidate for treating depression and its associated neurodegenerative diseases.

Ginger juice prevents cisplatin-induced oxidative stress, endocrine imbalance and NO/iNOS/NF-κB signalling via modulating testicular redox-inflammatory mechanism in rats

The off-target testicular toxicity of the anticancer drug, cisplatin, is a current clinical concern and worrisome to male cancer patients. Growing evidence has implicated oxidative stress and inflammation in cisplatin toxicity. We have explored whether fresh ginger juice could mitigate testicular toxicity induced by anticancer drug cisplatin in rats. Rats were subjected to oral administration of fresh ginger juice (5 ml/kg body weight/day) for 5 days against testicular damage induced by single ip injection of cisplatin (CIS) (10 mg/kg body weight) on day 2 only. Testicular activities of antioxidant enzymes, malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), nitric oxide (NO), inflammatory cytokines, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and nuclear factor-ĸB (NF-ĸB) and serum hormone levels were estimated. CIS-induced prominent decreases in antioxidant enzyme activities, GSH and serum hormone levels, whereas levels of MDA, cytokines, NO, iNOS and NF-ĸB increased remarkably (p < .05) compared to control. Interestingly, the CIS-induced testicular alterations were considerably mitigated by the fresh ginger juice via abrogation of oxidative stress and anti-inflammatory mechanism. The study suggests, for the first time, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of ginger juice against CIS testicular damage. Fresh ginger juice may have beneficial health impact on testicular side effect of CIS chemotherapy.

Zingerone prevents lead-induced toxicity in liver and kidney tissues by regulating the oxidative damage in Wistar rats

Among the heavy metal poisonings, lead is considered as a major toxic metal causing hematological, neurological, immunological, hepatic, and renal dysfunctions. Lead causes inhibition of ALAD leading to the ALA accumulation inside the cells. Lead also leads to disruption of the anti-oxidative enzyme system, organ function, and lipid membranes of the cell causing oxidative stress. Zingerone, a phenolic alkanone, is an active edible ingredient present in the ginger that possess varied pharmacological properties. The aim of our study was to evaluate the protective effect of zingerone in lead-induced toxicity in wistar rats. ALAD concentration was improved in kidney and liver tissues treated with zingerone. Protective effect of zingerone was observed in terms of significant improvement in kidney and liver histology, anti-oxidant enzyme activity (CAT, SOD, GPx, and GR), organ function parameters, lipid profile, and decreased level of LPO. Therefore, zingerone pretreatment can be a promising agent for alleviation of lead-induced oxidative damage in cells. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Published reports have revealed that consumption of certain bioactive nutrients for example, flavonoids, mineral elements, and vitamins can offer defense from the environmental lead contamination. Zingerone is a strong anti-oxidant, with very less side effects and has exceptional property of scavenging free radicals, hence reducing the oxidative stresses. This fundamental property of zingerone can alone help in countering the heavy metal toxicity. Different groups have published reported numerous properties of zingerone but as per our understanding till date no study about alleviation of lead toxicity by zingerone in animal model has been undertaken. Hence, we conducted this research to explore the preventive effect of zingerone in lead induced kidney and liver toxicity. The outcome of our study shows potent anti-oxidant effect and ALAD modulatory property of zingerone which makes it suitable edible candidate for use in countering lead toxicity.

Neuromodulatory effects of ethyl acetate fraction of Zingiber officinale Roscoe extract in rats with lead-induced oxidative stress

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated the ameliorative potential of Zingiber officinale Roscoe extract against lead-induced brain damage in rats.

METHODS

Thirty male rats were divided into 5 groups of 6 rats each. Lead-acetate toxicity was induced by intraperitoneal injection (10 mg/kg body weight (b.w.)) in Groups B-E. Group A (control) and Group B (lead-acetate) were left untreated; vitamin C (200 mg/kg b.w.) was administered to Group C; ethyl acetate fraction from Z. officinale extract (200 and 100 mg/kg b.w.) was administered to Group D and E by oral gavage once daily for 7 days. Changes in the content of some key marker enzymes such as acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), monoamine oxidase (MAO), epinephrine, dopamine, Na+/K+-ATPase, catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) as well as malonaldehyde (MDA) levels were determined in serum.

RESULTS

Exposure to lead acetate resulted in a significant decrease (P < 0.05) in the activities of BChE, AChE, Na+/K+-ATPase, SOD, CAT and GPx with a corresponding increase in the levels of MDA, xanthine oxidase, epinephrine, dopamine and MAO relative to the control group. Levels of all disrupted parameters were alleviated by co-administration of Z. officinale fraction and by the standard drug, vitamin C.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that ethyl acetate fraction of Z. officinale extract attenuates lead-induced brain damage and might have therapeutic potential as a supplement that can be applied in lead poisoning.

Ameliorative and protective effects of ginger and its main constituents against natural, chemical and radiation-induced toxicities: A comprehensive review

Fatal unintentional poisoning is widespread upon human exposure to toxic agents such as pesticides, heavy metals, environmental pollutants, bacterial and fungal toxins or even some medications and cosmetic products. In this regards, the application of the natural dietary agents as antidotes has engrossed a substantial attention. One of the ancient known traditional medicines and spices with an arsenal of metabolites of several reported health benefits is ginger. This extended literature review serves to demonstrate the protective effects and mechanisms of ginger and its phytochemicals against natural, chemical and radiation-induced toxicities. Collected data obtained from the in-vivo and in-vitro experimental studies in this overview detail the designation of the protective effects to ginger's antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties. Ginger's armoury of phytochemicals exerted its protective function via different mechanisms and cell signalling pathways, including Nrf2/ARE, MAPK, NF-ƙB, Wnt/β-catenin, TGF-β1/Smad3, and ERK/CREB. The outcomes of this review could encourage further clinical trials of ginger applications in radiotherapy and chemotherapy regime for cancer treatments or its implementation to counteract the chemical toxicity induced by industrial pollutants, alcohol, smoking or administered drugs.

Ginger alleviates hyperglycemia-induced oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis and protects rats against diabetic nephropathy

Oxidative stress plays a major role in the development and progression of diabetic nephropathy (DN). In this study, the potential protective effect of ginger (Zingiber officinale) rhizome extract on hyperglycemia-induced oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis was investigated. An experimental diabetic rat model was induced by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin. Diabetic rats were treated orally with 400 or 800 mg/kg/day Z. officinale extract for six weeks. Diabetic animals exhibited elevated blood glucose levels and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) with altered lipid profile. Blood urea nitrogen, serum creatinine and urea, and urine albumin levels were significantly increased in diabetic rats. Treatment with Z. officinale ameliorated hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia and kidney function. In addition, Z. officinale minimized the histological alterations in the kidney of diabetic rats. Chronic hyperglycemia resulted in a significant increase in malondialdehyde, protein carbonyl, pro-inflammatory cytokines, cytochrome c and caspase-3 in the kidney of rats. Z. officinale extract significantly attenuated oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis, and enhanced antioxidant defenses in the diabetic kidney. In conclusion, this study strongly suggests that Z. officinale rhizome extract exerts a protective role against diabetes-induced renal injury by ameliorating oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis.

Toxicodynamics of Lead, Cadmium, Mercury and Arsenic- induced kidney toxicity and treatment strategy: A mini review

Environmental pollution has become a concerning matter to human beings. Flint water crisis in the USA pointed out that pollution by heavy metal is getting worse day by day, predominantly by Lead, Cadmium, Mercury and Arsenic. Despite of not having any biological role in flora and fauna, they exhibit detrimental effect following exposure (acute or chronic). Even at low dose, they affect brain, kidney and heart. Oxidative stress has been termed as cause and effect in heavy metal-induced kidney toxicity. In treatment strategy, different chelating agent, vitamins and minerals are included, though chelating agents has been showed different fatal drawbacks. Interestingly, plants and plants derived compounds had shown possible effectiveness against heavy metals induced kidney toxicity. This review will provide detail information on toxicodynamics of Pb, Cd, Hg and As, treatment strategy along with the possible beneficiary role of plant derived compound to protect kidney.

EVALUATION OF THE CHELATING EFFECT OF METHANOLIC EXTRACT OF CORIANDRUM SATIVUM AND ITS FRACTIONS ON WISTAR RATS POISONED WITH LEAD ACETATE

Background:

The rate of lead poisoning has decreased in recent years due to increased health control in industries that use this metal. However, it is still a public health problem worldwide. The use of various plants with chelating properties has been a topic of research today. In traditional medicine, it is said that Coriandrum sativum has chelating properties, but there is no scientific evidence to support this fact. The purpose of this research is to evaluate the chelating effect of methanol extract of coriander and its fractions on Wistar rats intoxicated with lead.

Materials and Methods:

In this research, male Wistar rats were poisoned with 50 mg/kg of lead acetate and treated with 50 mg/kg of methanol extract and its fractions. The extract and its fractions were administered to four treatment groups. Positive and negative controls were established. Hemoglobin, hematocrit and lead concentrations were analyzed; liver was evaluated histologically in control and treatment groups.

Results:

The methanol extract of coriander presented a LD₅₀ >1000 mg/dL. The group administered with the methanol extract showed significant difference in the levels of hemoglobin and hematocrit compared to the negative control group. Lead concentration in treatment groups showed a decrease compared to the positive control. Histological evaluation of tissue showed less damage in groups administered with methanolic extract and its fractions compared to the positive control which presented structural alterations.

Conclusion:

Coriander extracts protect liver and lower lead concentration in rats intoxicated with lead in contrast to the positive control group.

Protective effect of Allium sativum (garlic) aqueous extract against lead-induced oxidative stress in the rat brain, liver, and kidney

The present investigation was undertaken to evaluate the ameliorative activity of Allium sativum against lead-induced oxidative stress in the brain, liver, and kidney of male rats. Four groups of male Wistar strain rats (100-120 g) were taken: group 1 received 1000 mg/L sodium acetate and group 2 was given 1000 mg/L lead acetate through drinking water for 2 weeks. Group 3 and 4 were treated with 250 mg/kg body weight/day of A. sativum and 500 mg/kg body weight/day of A. sativum, respectively, by oral intubation for a period of 2 weeks along with lead acetate. The rats were sacrificed after treatment and the brain, liver, and kidney were isolated on ice. In the brain, four important regions namely the hippocampus, cerebellum, cerebral cortex, and brain stem were separated and used for the present investigation. Blood was also drawn by cardiac puncture and preserved in heparinized vials at 4 °C for estimation of delta-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (ALAD) activity. The results showed a significant (p < 0.05) increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS), lipid peroxidation products (LPP), total protein carbonyl content (TPCC), and lead in the selected brain regions, liver, and kidney of lead-exposed group compared with their respective controls. Blood delta-ALAD activity showed a significant (p < 0.05) decrease in the lead-exposed rats. However, the concomitant administration of A. sativum resulted in tissue-specific recovery of oxidative stress parameters namely ROS, LPP, and TPCC. A. sativum treatment also restored the blood delta-ALAD activity back to control. Overall, our results indicate that A. sativum administration could be an effective antioxidant treatment strategy for lead-induced oxidative insult.

Gamma-Glutamyl Cysteine Attenuates Tissue Damage and Enhances Tissue Regeneration in a rat Model of Lead-Induced Nephrotoxicity

Lead is a biohazardous metal that is commonly involved in human illness including renal injury. Although it is a non-redox reactive metal, lead-induced renal injury is largely based on oxidative stress. The current work aimed at exploring the possible protective effect of γ-glutamyl cysteine (γGC) against lead-induced renal injury. Rats were allocated to normal and γGC control groups, lead-treated group, and lead and γGC-treated group. γGC alleviated lead-induced renal injury as evidenced by attenuation of histopathological aberration, amelioration of oxidative injury as demonstrated by significant reduction in lipid and protein oxidation, elevation of total antioxidant capacity, and glutathione level. The activity of antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) was significantly elevated. γGC significantly decreased levels of the proinflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-6, and IL-1β and the activity of the apoptotic marker caspase-3. In addition, γGC reduced kidney lead content, enhanced weight gain, and improved renal function as demonstrated by reduced serum levels of urea and creatinine. Importantly, γGC upregulated proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) expression, denoting enhanced renal regenerative capacity. Together, our findings highlight evidence for alleviating effects of γGC against lead-induced renal injury that is potentially mediated through diminution of oxidative tissue injury, reduction of inflammatory response, attenuation of apoptosis, and enhancement of renal regenerative capacity.

Effects of vitamin D on kidney histology and trpv1 channels in doxorubicin-induced nephropathy

Doxorubicin (DXR) is an antineoplastic agent of the anthracycline group, and may show nephrotoxic effects in animal models and humans. We investigated changes in kidney tissue following doxorubicin treatment and the effects of vitamin D on kidney tissue and TRPV1 channels. In this study, 24 adult male Wistar Albino rats were used. The animals were divided into four groups of six animals. During the 14-day experiment period, Group I did not have any application. 200 IU/day cholecalciferol was administered orally to Group II. Group III received 10 mg/kg single dose of DXR intraperitoneally (IP); and Group IV had a single 10 mg/kg dose of IP DXR and 200 IU/day of oral cholecalciferol. At the end of the experiment, the rats were decapitated, and their kidney tissues were removed. TRPV1 expression and apoptosis were detected in the tissue section by using immunohistochemical, TUNEL and real time-PCR (RT-PCR) techniques. The findings were examined and photographed with BH2 Olympus photomicroscope. As result of immunohistochemical staining, RT-PCR and examination with light microscope, it was found that the TRPV 1 immunoreactivity of the DXR group decreased in comparison with the control group, and the vitamin D application did not reverse this effect. Apoptosis detected by the TUNEL method tended to increase in the doxorubicin group and was relatively reversed with the administration of vitamin D. Tissue malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were observed to correlate with the findings of apoptosis. This study showed that vitamin D has anti- apoptotic and antioxidant effects on kidney tissue after DXR-induced injury.

Silymarin and dimercaptosuccinic acid ameliorate lead-induced nephrotoxicity and genotoxicity in rats

We studied the effect of silymarin and dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA), a chelating agent that was administered individually or in combination against lead (Pb) toxicity in rats. Wistar rats (200 ± 20) were randomly divided into five groups. Group A served as a control. Groups B-E were exposed to 2000 ppm of lead acetate in drinking water for 8 weeks. Group B served as a positive control. Group C received silymarin (100 mg kg(-1) orally) for 8 weeks. Group D received DMSA (75 mg kg(-1) orally) once daily for the last 5 days of treatment. Group E received DMSA and silymarin as groups C and D, respectively. The effect of Pb was evaluated and accordingly the treatments on blood lead levels (BLLs), renal system, and genotoxic effects were calculated using comet assay. The BLLs were significantly increased following the exposition of lead acetate. The administration of silymarin and DMSA provided reduction in BLLs. Silymarin and DMSA provided significant protection on the genotoxic effect of Pb. The toxic effect of Pb on kidneys was also studied. Our data suggest that silymarin and DMSA improve the renal histopathological lesions.

Dietary strategies for the treatment of cadmium and lead toxicity

Cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) are toxic heavy metals that cause adverse health effects in humans and animals. Chelation therapy, the conventional treatment for heavy metal toxicity, is reported to have a number of safety and efficacy issues. Recent studies have shown that dietary supplements play important roles in protecting against Cd and Pb toxicity. This paper reviews the evidence for protective effects of essential metals, vitamins, edible plants, phytochemicals, probiotics and other dietary supplements against Cd and Pb toxicity and describes the proposed possible mechanisms. Based on these findings, dietary strategies are recommended for people at risk of Cd and Pb exposure. The application of these strategies is advantageous for both the prevention and alleviation of Cd and Pb toxicity, as such supplements can be added easily and affordably to the daily diet and are expected to have very few side effects compared to the chelation therapy.