The protective effects of ozone therapy in a rat model of acetaminophen-induced liver injury

Evaluation of the Efficacy of Ozone Therapy on Liver Tissue in the Treatment of Sepsis in Rats with Cecal Perforation

Background and Objectives: Sepsis and its related complications are associated with high morbidity and mortality, often leading to liver damage. Ozone, a molecule with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, may offer protective effects. This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic and protective impact of ozone on liver injury in a rat model of sepsis induced by cecal ligation and perforation (CLP). Material and Methods: A total of 36 rats were randomly divided into five groups: control (Group C), ozone (Group O), cecal ligation and perforation (Group CLP), ozone + cecal ligation and perforation (Group O+CLP), and cecal ligation and perforation + ozone (Group CLP+O). In the ozone groups, 4 mL of ozone (20 µ/mL) was injected intraperitoneally. Biochemical and histopathological parameters were evaluated in liver tissue samples obtained at the end of 24 h. Results: Polymorphonuclear leukocyte and monocyte infiltration and the total injury score were significantly reduced in the ozone-treated groups compared to the CLP group (p < 0.001). Tumor necrosis factor and interleukin 10 levels in the rat liver tissue were significantly reduced in the O+CLP and CLP+O groups compared to the CLP group, with the O+CLP group showing a more substantial decrease than the CLP+O group (p < 0.001). Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and glutathione s-transferase levels were significantly lower in the ozone-treated groups compared to the CLP group (p < 0.001). Catalase activity was significantly elevated in the O+CLP group compared to the CLP group (p < 0.001). Serum aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, gamma-glutamyl transferase, and total bilirubin were significantly increased in the CLP group and decreased in the ozone-treated groups (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p = 0.01, p < 0.001 respectively). Conclusions: Administering ozone to rats one hour before the CLP significantly mitigated liver damage, showing a more pronounced effect compared to administering ozone one hour after CLP. The results indicate that ozone could serve a protective function in managing sepsis-induced liver damage.

Impact of ozone therapy on mouse liver mitochondrial function and antioxidant system

Ozone therapy's efficacy might stem from the regulated and mild oxidative stress resulting from ozone's interactions with various biological elements. The present work aimed to characterize the hepatic mitochondrial response to ozone treatment and its relationship with the antioxidant system response. Two groups of mice were used: one control group and another injected intraperitoneally with an O3/O2 mixture (80 ml/kg) for 5 days. Mitochondrial respiration supported by different substrates was significantly inhibited, as well as complexes I and II/III, but not complex IV. The analysis of the electron transport chain complex activity showed significant inhibitions in complexes I and II/III but not in complex IV. These inhibitions can prevent mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Additionally, there was a decline in glutathione content, unaccompanied by a rise in its oxidized form. The ozone-treated groups showed a significant increase in the activity of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase, while catalase and glutathione reductase experienced no significant alterations. Adenine nucleotides increased in the ozone group, but only the increase in adenosine diphosphate is significant, so the cell's energy charge is unaffected. This study shows that mitochondria may play a crucial role in ozone treatment. However, it also highlights the need for further studies to understand the molecular mechanism.

Ozone Exposure Controls Oxidative Stress and the Inflammatory Process of Hepatocytes in Murine Models

(1) Background: Ozone exposure is a promising tool for treating liver damage since it is known to control the release of free radicals and increase the expression of antioxidant enzymes. The objective is to investigate the main intracellular pathways activated after exposure to ozone, considering the dosage of antioxidant enzymes and markers of oxidative stress. (2) Methods: This systematic review was performed based on the PRISMA guidelines and using a structured search in MEDLINE (PubMed), Scopus, and Web of Science. Bias analysis and methodological quality assessments were examined using the SYRCLE Risk of Bias tool. (3) Results: Nineteen studies were selected. The results showed that the exposure to ozone has a protective effect on liver tissue, promoting a decrease in inflammatory markers and a reduction in oxidative stress in liver tissue. In addition, ozone exposure also promoted an increase in antioxidant enzymes. The morphological consequences of controlling these intracellular pathways were reducing the tissue inflammatory process and reducing areas of degeneration and necrosis. (4) Conclusions: Ozone exposure has a beneficial effect on models of liver injury through the decrease in oxidative stress in tissue and inflammatory markers. In addition, it regulates the Nrf2/ARE antioxidant pathway and blocks the NF-κB inflammatory pathway.

A ratiometric nanoprobe for the in vivo bioimaging of hypochlorous acid to detect drug-damaged liver and kidneys

As the organs responsible for toxin transformation and excretion in the body, damage to the liver and kidneys induced by inevitable drug toxicity is the main cause of acute liver and kidney injury. P-Acetamidophenol overdose leads hypochlorous acid (HClO) to accumulate in the mitochondria of tissues, ultimately resulting in acute liver and kidney injury in humans, despite its clinical use as an antipyretic medicine. Herein, we report an HClO-activatable self-assembling ratiometric nanoprobe NRH-800-PEG for screening the upregulation of HClO by colocalization in mitochondria while monitoring the changes in the endogenous HClO levels in cells with ratiometric signals. Furthermore, NRH-800-PEG was constructed to evaluate injury by fluorescence ratio imaging in the tissues of inflammatory mice. Our strategy offers a novel tool for assessing disease progression during drug-induced liver and kidney injury.

Modification effects of ambient temperature on associations of ambient ozone exposure before and during pregnancy with adverse birth outcomes: A multicity study in China

BACKGROUND

Epidemiological studies suggest that both ambient ozone (O₃) and temperature were associated with increased risks of adverse birth outcomes. However, very few studies explored their interaction effects, especially for small for gestational age (SGA) and large for gestational age (LGA).

OBJECTIVES

To estimate the modification effects of ambient temperature on associations of ambient O₃ exposure before and during pregnancy with preterm birth (PTB), low birth weight (LBW), SGA and LGA based on multicity birth cohorts.

METHODS

A total of 56,905 singleton pregnant women from three birth cohorts conducted in Tianjin, Beijing and Maoming, China, were included in the study. Maximum daily 8-h average O₃ concentrations of each pregnant woman from the preconception period to delivery for every day were estimated by matching their home addresses with the Tracking Air Pollution in China (TAP) datasets. We first applied the Cox proportional-hazards regression model to evaluate the city-specific effects of O₃ exposure before and during pregnancy on adverse birth outcomes at different temperature levels with adjustment for potential confounders, and then a meta-analysis across three birth cohorts was conducted to calculate the pooled associations.

RESULTS

In pooled analysis, significant modification effects of ambient temperature on associations of ambient O₃ with PTB, LBW and LGA were observed (P_interaction < 0.05). For a 10 μg/m³ increase in ambient O₃ exposure at high temperature level (> 75^th percentile), the risk of LBW increased by 28 % (HR: 1.28, 95% CI: 1.13-1.46) during the second trimester and the risk of LGA increased by 116% (HR: 2.16, 95%CI: 1.16-4.00) during the entire pregnancy, while the null or weaker association was observed at corresponding low (≤ 25^th percentile) and medium (> 25^th and ≤ 75^th percentile) temperature levels.

CONCLUSION

This multicity study added new evidence that ambient high temperature may enhance the potential effects of ambient O₃ on adverse birth outcomes.

Interactive effects of ambient air pollution and sunshine duration on the risk of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy

INTRODUCTION

While the associations among ambient pollutants and various pregnancy complications are well documented, the effect of ambient pollutants on intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) has not been examined. This study aimed to explore the effects of ambient pollutants and sunshine duration on ICP.

METHODS

The study enrolled 169,971 pregnant women who delivered between 2015 and 2020 in two hospitals. The associations between ICP and exposure to ambient pollutants and sunshine duration, averaged throughout different periods (including the 3 months before conception, 1st trimester and 2nd trimester), were estimated using a generalized linear model. The interaction effects of ambient pollutants and sunshine duration on ICP were estimated.

RESULTS

The fitted curves for ICP incidence were similar to the temporal trends of PM_2.5, PM₁₀, SO₂, CO and NO₂ but not that of O₃. The risk of ICP was significantly elevated following a 10-μg/m³ increase in PM_2.5 (aOR [adjusted odds ratio] = 1.057, 95% CI [confidence interval]: 1.017-1.099) and PM₁₀ (aOR = 1.043, 95% CI: 1.013-1.074) and a 1-h decrease in sunshine duration (aOR = 1.039, 95% CI: 1.011-1.068) during the 3 months before conception. In the second trimester, a 1-μg/m³ increase in the concentration of SO₂ was associated with an increased risk of ICP (aOR = 1.011, 95% CI: 1.001-1.021). Increased concentrations of PM_2.5 and PM₁₀ had interactive effects with reduced sunshine duration during the 3 months before conception on increasing the risk of ICP.

CONCLUSIONS

Exposure to PM_2.5 and PM₁₀ during the 3 months before conception and exposure to SO₂ in the second trimester were associated with an increased ICP risk. Reduced sunshine duration had an interactive effect with increased concentrations of PM_2.5 and PM₁₀ during the 3 months before conception on the occurrence of ICP.

Effects of Ozone Therapy on Chronic Arsenic Poisoning in Rats

Arsenic (As) is a toxic metalloid that affects many organs through drinking water. This study aims to examine the efficacy of ozone therapy on chronic arsenic toxicity. Twenty-four male Wistar albino rats were housed in individual cages and grouped as control, As, O₃, and As + O_3. As was applied by adding 5 mg/kg/day in drinking water for 60 days. Ozone therapy was applied at 0.5 mg/kg/day (i.p.) O₃ in the last 5 days of the experimental period. Tissues were harvested and analyzed for histopathological injury and apoptotic markers. There was no significant difference between the As + O₃ and O₃ groups (p = 0.186 and p = 0.599) for light microscopic criteria: inflammatory cell infiltration and hydropic degeneration in liver tissue.In TUNEL assessments, similar outcomes were obtained in the control and As + O₃ groups. A statistically significant increase was observed in p53 and Caspase 3 (Casp-3) expression levels in the As group compared to the O₃ and As + O₃ groups. There was no significant difference between the As + O₃ and O₃ groups on peritubular hemorrhage and desquamation parameters in kidneys (p = 0.147 and p = 0.094). The KIM-1 expression level was significantly increased in the As group compared to the As + O₃ group (p = 0.01), and the Casp-3 expression level was not significantly changed in the O₃ group compared to the As + O₃ group (p = 0.59). In conclusion, it is determined that ozone therapy has ameliorative effects on the microscopic injury of liver and kidney tissues. In addition to microscopic improvement, KIM-1 gene expression levels were ameliorated in the kidneys. The apoptotic cell counts and the Casp-3 and p53 gene expression levels were decreased by O₃ administration. Thus, ozone therapy can be a treatment choice for As toxicity.

Prenatal exposure to air pollution and the risk of preterm birth in rural population of Henan Province

Due to the poor living and healthcare conditions, preterm birth (PTB) in rural population is a pressing health issue. However, PTB studies in rural population are rare. To explore the effects of air pollutants on PTB in rural population, we collected 697,316 medical records during 2014-2016 based on the National Free Preconception Health Examination Project. Logistic regression models were used to estimate the association between air pollutants and PTB and the modifying effects of demographic characteristics. Relative contribution and principal component analysis-generalized linear model (PCA-GLM) analysis were used to explore the most significant air pollutant and gestational period. Our results demonstrated that PTB risk is positively associated with exposure to air pollutants including PM₁₀, PM_2.5, SO₂, NO₂, and CO, while negatively associated with O₃ exposure (P < 0.05). In addition, we found that NO₂ was the largest contributor to the risk of PTB caused by air pollutants (26.5%). The third trimester of pregnancy was the most sensitive exposure window. PCA-GLM analysis showed that the first component (a combination of PM, SO₂, NO₂, and CO) increased the risk of PTB. Moreover, we found that rural women who are younger, had higher educated, multi-parity, or smoke appeared to be more sensitive to the association between air pollutants exposure and PTB (P_-interaction<0.05). Our findings suggested that increased air pollutants except O₃ were associated with elevated PTB risk, especially among vulnerable mothers. Therefore, the effects of air pollutants exposure on PTB should be mitigated by restricting emission sources of NO₂ and SO₂ in rural population, especially during the third trimester.

Microenvironment Activatable Nanoprodrug Based on Gripper-like Cyclic Phenylboronic Acid to Precisely and Effectively Alleviate Drug-induced Hepatitis

Drug-induced hepatitis (DIH), which seriously interferes with disease treatment, is one of the most common reasons for termination of new drugs during preclinical studies or post-marketing surveillance. Although antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents are promising, their nonspecific distribution and insolubility limit their application. Therefore, precise drug release at the disease site is an important way to alleviate DIH and avoid side effects.

Methods: A gripper-like hydrophilic cyclic phenylboronic acid (cPBA) was synthesized and a nanoprodrug (cPBA-BE) was established by coupling cPBA with hydrophobic baicalein (BE). The stimuli-responsive release properties and therapeutic effect of cPBA-BE on drug-injured hepatocyte were investigated. The biodistribution and therapeutic effect of cPBA-BE both in acetaminophen-induced acute hepatitis model and rifampicin-induced chronic hepatitis model were further evaluated.

Results: cPBA-BE conjugate could self-assemble into nanoprodrug with cPBA as the hydrophilic external layer and BE as the hydrophobic core. In HepaRG cells, cPBA-BE showed stronger cellular uptake. Due to the H₂O₂- and acid-sensitivity, cPBA-BE could achieve adequate BE release, significantly resist the depletion of GSH, mitochondrial dysfunction, downregulation of inflammation and cell apoptosis in the acetaminophen injured HepaRG cells. Biodistribution showed that cPBA-BE specifically increased the concentration of BE in the liver of DIH mice. cPBA-BE could alleviate acetaminophen-induced acute hepatitis or rifampicin-induced chronic hepatitis more effectively through relieving the oxidative stress, inflammation and block the neutrophil infiltration in liver.

Conclusions: cPBA is expected to be a good platform for constructing injectable nanoprodrug with both H₂O₂ and pH-responsive properties by coupling a wide range of drugs containing o-diol. In this study, the nanoprodrug cPBA-BE was determined to be effective for alleviating the DIH.

Associations of adverse pregnancy outcomes with high ambient air pollution exposure: Results from the Project ELEFANT

BACKGROUND

Investigations on the potential effects of high air pollution exposure before pregnancy on adverse pregnancy outcomes are limited, and it is unknown whether air quality standards looser than that set by World Health Organization (WHO) still can provide sufficient protection pregnant women from adverse pregnancy outcomes.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the potential effects of high ambient air pollution around pregnancy on preterm birth (PTB) and low birth weight (LBW), and assess the risk of PTB and LBW associated with air pollutants with reference to different air quality standards of WHO and China.

METHODS

Our study leveraged 10,960 pregnant women from the Project ELEFANT. Daily average particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter of ≤2.5 μm (PM_2.5) and ≤10 μm (PM₁₀), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), carbon monoxide (CO) and ozone (O₃) concentrations were collected based on Chinese Air Quality Reanalysis datasets. Hazard ratios (HR) of PTB and LBW were estimated for maternal PM_2.5, PM₁₀, NO₂, SO₂, CO and O₃ exposures and related proportions of days with daily average air pollution concentrations exceeding air quality standards of WHO and China around pregnancy using Cox proportional hazards regression models with adjustment for potential confounders.

RESULTS

Ambient PM_2.5, PM₁₀, NO₂, SO₂ and CO exposure during the before pregnancy and pregnancy period were both significantly and positively associated with increased risk of PTB, PTB subtypes and LBW. A 10% increase in proportion of days with daily average PM_2.5 exceeding 25 μg/m³ over the entire pregnancy was most apparently associated with risk of PTB (HR, 12.66; 95% CI, 8.20-19.53) and LBW (HR, 17.42; 95% CI, 6.88-44.10) among all PM_2.5 proportion variables based on different air quality standards.

CONCLUSION

Air quality standards of WHO are necessary to be implemented to control for risks of adverse pregnancy outcomes associated with ambient air pollution in areas with high air pollution levels.

Selenium or ozone: Effects on liver injury caused by experimental iron overload

AIMS

Iron is an important metal ion as a biocatalyst on the other hand iron overload causes various diseases. Iron overload can result in fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma with various pathophysiological mechanisms, including oxidative damage in the liver. Therefore; in this study the effects of ozone and selenium -whose antioxidant properties are known- were evaluated in liver injury induced by iron overload.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Iron overload model was provided by intraperitoneal administration of 88 mg/kg iron dextrate for 4 weeks. After iron dextran administration, ozone and selenium administrations were made for 3 weeks. From the obtained blood and tissue samples total oxidant status (TOS) and total antioxidant status (TAS) were determined and histopathological examination was performed in liver tissue samples.

KEY FINDINGS

In rats with iron overload, the lowest mean serum TOS was observed in the selenium administration group. The highest tissue TOS means and the lowest tissue TAS means were determined in the group in which ozone and selenium were administrated together. When histopathological data were evaluated, the presence of increased apoptosis in the ozone group compared to the iron group (p = 0.019) and selenium group (p = 0.019) was noted. Similarly, increased periportal inflammation (p = 0.001) and fibrosis (p = 0.005) were observed in the ozone group compared to the selenium group.

SIGNIFICANCE

In iron-induced liver damage, ozone was thought to be effective by decreasing ROS, but contrary to expectations, it was observed that it may negatively affect the picture by showing synergistic effect. However, the effects of selenium on both serum and tissue levels are promising.

FGF1 protects against APAP-induced hepatotoxicity via suppression of oxidative and endoplasmic reticulum stress

Acetaminophen (APAP) overdose/abuse is the leading cause of acute liver failure in many countries. Fibroblast growth factor 1 (FGF 1) is a metabolic regulator with several physiological functions. Previous studies suggested that FGF1 promotes differentiation and maturation of liver-derived stem cells. In this study, we investigated the protective effects of FGF1 against APAP-induced hepatotoxicity in mice. APAP markedly increased circulating levels of ALT and AST, while FGF1 significantly inhibited increases in the serum levels of ALT and AST, as compared to littermates. In addition, histopathological evaluation of the livers revealed that FGF1 prevented APAP-induced centrilobular necrosis. Livers exhibited severe inflammation, apoptosis, oxidative stress and endoplasmic reticulum stress in response to APAP toxicity, whereas these changes were reversed by a single injection of FGF1. In conclusion, our findings suggest that FGF1 protects mice from APAP-induced hepatotoxicity through suppression of inflammation, apoptosis, and oxidative and endoplasmic reticulum stress. Therefore, FGF1 may represent a promising therapeutic agent for APAP-induced acute liver injury.

Efficacy of Ozone and Selenium Therapy for Alcoholic Liver Injury: An Experimental Model

BACKGROUND/AIM

Alcoholic liver disease is an important health problem which is reversible during early stages of liver damage, but becomes permanent with time. Nowadays, many studies focus on various agents that prevent, reduce or slow the progression of the toxic effects of alcohol. In our study, we investigated the efficiency of ozone and selenium against oxidative damage in a model of alcohol-induced liver damage.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty-eight female Wistar Albino rats between 4 and 6 months of age and weighing 190-250 g were included in the study and were used as models of alcohol liver damage. Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), serum and tissue total oxidant levels, serum and tissue total antioxidant levels, and the histopathological evaluation of the liver were performed in 8 groups.

RESULTS

In the statistical analysis, it was observed that ozone and/or selenium therapies decreased the AST levels. Total oxidant and antioxidant serum levels were found to vary in serum and tissue. Ozone and/or selenium therapies decreased liver damage, according to histopathological findings.

CONCLUSION

Through ozone and/or selenium therapies, less damage was observed histopathologically compared to the alcohol group. It is thought that the results of our study can be used in individual treatments following confirmation of liver damage in alcoholic patients.

The beneficial effects of ozone therapy in acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity in mice

BACKGROUND

The aim of the present study was to determine the therapeutic effects of medical ozone therapy on acute acetaminophen (APAP)-induced hepatotoxicity which were not clearly demonstrated in prior studies.

METHOD

Twenty-four mice were randomly assigned into three equal groups: Group 1 (control), Group 2 (APAP) and Group 3 (APAP +ozone). Hepatotoxicity was induced by APAP given as a single dose of 300mg/kg intraperitoneally in Groups 2 and 3. Additionally, Group 3 received 20mcg/0.5mL ozone intraperitoneal twice a day for the remaining of the study. Other groups received saline injections. On the fourth day of the study, biochemical variables (AST, ALT, ALP) and liver histopathology was assessed.

RESULTS

Intraperitoneal administration of a single dose of APAP induced hepatocellular damage that was shown by both liver enzymes and histopathological changes (p<0.001). AST, ALT, ALP levels were elevated in both groups 2 and 3 and the difference from group 1 was statistically significant (p<0.01).Mean ALT and AST levels of group 2 were statistically significantly higher versus group 3 (p<0.01). In histopathological examinations; necrosis and inflammation were more prominent in Group 2 compared to Group 3 (p<0.01).

CONCLUSION

Ozone showed beneficial effects on APAP hepatotoxicity at a statistically significant level. It is known that ozone has therapeutic effects in various diseases owing to its antioxidant effects. The present study suggests that ozone may be utilized as a routine supplementary therapy in acute APAP hepatotoxicity.

Acetaminophen-Induced Liver Injury Alters the Acyl Ethanolamine-Based Anti-Inflammatory Signaling System in Liver

Protective mechanisms against drug-induced liver injury are actively being searched to identify new therapeutic targets. Among them, the anti-inflammatory N-acyl ethanolamide (NAE)-peroxisome proliferators activated receptor alpha (PPARα) system has gained much interest after the identification of its protective role in steatohepatitis and liver fibrosis. An overdose of paracetamol (APAP), a commonly used analgesic/antipyretic drug, causes hepatotoxicity, and it is being used as a liver model. In the present study, we have analyzed the impact of APAP on the liver NAE-PPARα system. A dose-response (0.5-5-10-20 mM) and time-course (2-6-24 h) study in human HepG2 cells showed a biphasic response, with a decreased PPARα expression after 6-h APAP incubation followed by a generalized increase of NAE-PPARα system-related components (PPARα, NAPE-PLD, and FAAH), including the NAEs oleoyl ethanolamide (OEA) and docosahexaenoyl ethanolamide, after a 24-h exposure to APAP. These results were partially confirmed in a time-course study of mice exposed to an acute dose of APAP (750 mg/kg). The gene expression levels of Pparα and Faah were decreased after 6 h of treatment and, after 24 h, the gene expression levels of Nape-pld and Faah, as well as the liver levels of OEA and palmitoyl ethanolamide, were increased. Repeated APAP administration (750 mg/kg/day) up to 4 days also decreased the expression levels of PPARα and FAAH, and increased the liver levels of NAEs. A resting period of 15 days completely restored these impairments. Liver immunohistochemistry in a well-characterized human case of APAP hepatotoxicity confirmed PPARα and FAAH decrements. Histopathological and hepatic damage (Cyp2e1, Caspase3, αSma, Tnfα, and Mcp1)-related alterations observed after repeated APAP administration were aggravated in the liver of Pparα-deficient mice. Our results demonstrate that the anti-inflammatory NAE-PPARα signaling system is implicated in liver toxicity after exposure to APAP overdose, and may contribute to its recovery through a long-term time-dependent response.

Chrysin Protects Rat Kidney from Paracetamol-Induced Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, Apoptosis, and Autophagy: A Multi-Biomarker Approach

Paracetamol (PC) is a safe analgesic and antipyretic drug at therapeutic doses, and it is widely used in clinics. However, at high doses, it can induce hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity. Chrysin (CR) is a natural flavonoid that has biological activities that include being an antioxidant, an anti-inflammatory, and an anti-cancer agent. The main objective of this study was to investigate the efficacy of CR against PC-induced nephrotoxicity in rats. CR was given orally via feeding needle to male Sprague Dawley rats as a single daily dose of 25 or 50 mg/kg for six days. PC was administered orally via feeding needle as a single dose on the sixth day. PC caused significant glutathione depletion, lipid peroxidation, increased serum toxicity markers (serum urea and creatinine), and reductions in activities of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase — SOD, catalase — CAT, and glutathione peroxidase — GPx). The renal protective effect of CR was associated with decreasing the regulation of serum renal toxicity markers and increasing the regulation of antioxidant enzyme activities. Additionally, PC led to significant increases in the levels of inflammatory markers including tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and interleukin-33 (IL-33). Furthermore, PC induced apoptotic tissue damage by increasing cysteine aspartate-specific protease-3 (caspase-3) activity and autophagic tissue damage by increasing the expression of light chain 3B (LC3B). CR therapy significantly decreased these values in rats. This study demonstrated that CR has antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory and anti-autophagic effects on PC-induced kidney toxicity in rats.

Assessing the Effect of Leptin on Liver Damage in Case of Hepatic Injury Associated with Paracetamol Poisoning

Background Aim. In case of high-dose acetaminophen intake, the active metabolite can not bind to the glutathione, thereby inducing cellular necrosis through binding to the cytosol proteins. This trial was performed to histologically and biochemically investigate whether leptin was protective against liver damage induced by paracetamol at toxic doses. Material and Method. In our trial, 30 female rats, divided into 5 groups, were used. IP leptin administration was performed after an hour in the group of rats, in which paracetamol poisoning was induced. The groups were as follows: Group 1: the control group, Group 2: 20 µg/kg leptin, Group 3: 2 g/kg paracetamol, Group 4: 2 g/kg paracetamol + 10 µg/kg leptin, and Group 5: 2 g/kg paracetamol + 20 µg/kg leptin. Results. The most significant increase was observed in the PARA 2 g/kg group, while the best improvement among the treatment groups occurred in the PARA 2 g/kg + LEP 10 µg/kg group (p < 0.05). While the most significant glutathione (GSH) reduction was observed in the PARA 2 g/kg group, the best improvement was in the PARA 2 g/kg + LEP 10 µg/kg group (p < 0.05). Conclusion. Liver damage occurring upon paracetamol poisoning manifests with hepatocyte breakdown occurring as a result of inflammation and oxidative stress. Leptin can prevent this damage thanks to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory efficacy.

The effects of air pollution on adverse birth outcomes

BACKGROUND

Air pollution has been shown to have adverse effects on many health outcomes including cardiorespiratory diseases and cancer. However, evidence on the effects of prenatal exposure is still limited. The purpose of this retrospective cohort study is to evaluate the effects of prenatal exposure to air pollutants including particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter less than 2.5 μm (PM2.5) and ozone (O3) on the risk of adverse birth outcomes (ABOs) including term low birth weight (LBW), preterm delivery (PTD) and very PTD (VPTD).

METHODS

singleton births from 2004 to 2005 in Florida were included in the study (N=423,719). Trimester-specific exposures to O3 and PM2.5 at maternal residence at delivery were estimated using the National Environmental Public Health Tracking Network data, which were interpolated using Hierarchical Bayesian models.

RESULTS

After adjustment for potential confounders such as demographics, medical and lifestyle factors PM2.5 exposures in all trimesters were found to be significantly and positively associated with the risk of all ABOs. Second-trimester exposure had the strongest effects. For an interquartile range (IQR) increase in PM2.5 during the second trimester, the risk of term LBW, PTD and VPTD increased by 3% [95% confidence interval (CI): 1-6%)], 12% (11-14%) and 22% (18-25%), respectively. O3 was also found to be positively associated with PTD and VPTD with the strongest effects over the whole pregnancy period [3% (1-5%) for PTD and 13% (7-19%) for VPTD for each IQR increase]. However, O3 was observed to have protective effects on term LBW. Results were consistent for multi-pollutant models.

CONCLUSION

PM2.5 has consistent adverse effects on ABOs whereas O3 has inconsistent effects. These findings warrant further investigation.

The relation between oxidative stress, inflammation, and neopterin in the paraquat-induced lung toxicity

Paraquat (PQ) is a well-known quaternary nitrogen herbicide. The major target organ in PQ poisoning is the lung. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and inflammation play a crucial role in the development of PQ-induced pulmonary injury. Neopterin is synthesized in macrophage by interferon γ and other cytokines. We aimed to evaluate the utility of neopterin as a diagnostic marker in PQ-induced lung toxicity. Sprague Dawley rats were randomly divided into two groups (sham and PQ), administered intraperitoneally 1 mL saline and PQ (15 mg/kg/mL) respectively. Blood samples and lungs were collected for analyses. Lung injury and fibrosis were seen in the PQ group. Serum total antioxidant capacity, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and lung transforming growth factor-1β (TGF-1β) levels were significantly higher than the sham group (in all, p < 0.001). In addition, in the PQ group, serum neopterin and lung malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were also significantly higher than the sham group (in all, p = 0.001). Serum neopterin levels were correlated with LDH activities, lung MDA, lung TGF-1β levels, and the degree of lung injury. These findings demonstrated that oxidative stress, reduction of antioxidant capacity, and inflammation play a crucial role in the PQ-induced lung injury. Elevated serum neopterin levels may be a prognostic parameter to determine extends of PQ-induced lung toxicity. Further studies may be performed to clarify the role of neopterin by different doses of PQ.

The relationship between N-acetylcysteine, hyperbaric oxygen, and inflammation in a rat model of acetaminophen-induced nephrotoxicity

An overdose of acetaminophen (APAP) produces acute tubular necrosis. The aim of this study was to observe the effects of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) only and combined with N-acetylcysteine (NAC) on inflammatory cytokines in kidney. Thirty-two male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four groups: sham, control (APAP), NAC, and NAC + HBO. In the APAP, NAC, and NAC + HBO groups, renal injury was induced by oral administration of 1 g/kg APAP. The NAC group received NAC (100 mg/kg/day). NAC + HBO group received NAC (100 mg/kg/day) intraperitoneally and HBO underwent at 2.8 ATA pressure with 100 % oxygen inhalation for 90 min every 12 h for 5 days. Rats in the sham group received distilled water only by gastric tube. All animals were killed on 6 days after APAP or distilled water administration. Creatinine, urea, neopterin, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interleukin (IL)-6 levels were measured in sera. There was a significant increase in serum creatinine and urea levels in the control group compared to the sham group (in both, p = 0.001). NAC and NAC + HBO significantly decreased serum neopterin, TNF-α, and IL-6 levels compared to control group. APAP administration caused tubular necrosis in the renal. NAC and NAC + HBO treatments significantly reduced APAP-induced renal damage. The results of this study showed that renal dysfunction in APAP toxicity was attenuated by the use of HBO and NAC treatments. The combination of NAC and HBO treatments might be recommended as an effective treatment modality for APAP-induced nephrotoxicity.

Hyperbaric oxygen treatment and N-acetylcysteine ameliorate acetaminophen-induced liver injury in a rat model

An overdose of acetaminophen (APAP) produces centrilobular hepatocellular necrosis. We aimed to investigate the hepatoprotective effects of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) only and hyperbaric oxygen (O(2)) treatment (HBOT) combined with NAC, and their anti-inflammatory properties in liver tissue. In the current study, a total of 32 male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into 4 groups: sham, APAP, NAC, and NAC + HBOT. In the APAP, NAC, and NAC + HBOT groups, liver injury was induced by oral administration of 1 g/kg APAP. The NAC group received 100 mg/kg NAC per day. NAC + HBOT group received intraperitoneal injection of 100 mg/kg/day NAC and were given HBOT at 2.8 ATA pressure with 100% O(2) inhalation for 90 min every 12 h for 5 days. Rats in the sham group received distilled water only by gastric tube. All animals were killed on day 6 after APAP or distilled water administration. Serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activities, hepatic neopterin, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interleukin 6 (IL-6) levels were measured. There was a significant increase in serum AST and ALT activities in the APAP group compared with the sham group (in both p = 0.001). NAC and NAC + HBOT groups had significant decreases in hepatic neopterin, TNF-α, and IL-6 levels compared with the APAP group. APAP administration caused extensive hepatic necrosis. NAC and NAC + HBO treatments significantly reduced APAP-induced liver injury. Our results showed that the liver damage in APAP toxicity was attenuated by NAC and NAC + HBO treatments. NAC + HBOT exhibit hepatoprotective activity against APAP-induced liver injury in rats.

The role of infliximab on paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity in rats

Paracetamol has a reasonable safety profile when consumed in therapeutic doses. However, it could induce hepatotoxicity and even acute liver failure when taken at an overdose. Infliximab is tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) inhibitor agent, which has been developed as a therapeutic agent for TNF-α-mediated disease. It acts by binding and neutralizing TNF. The aim of our study was to evaluate the hepatoprotective activity of infliximab on paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity and to understand the relationship between the TNF-α and paracetamol-induced liver injury. Fifty-six rats were divided into eight groups as each composed of seven rats: (1) intact, (2) 7 mg/kg infliximab, (3) 140 mg/kg NAC, (4) 2 g/kg paracetamol, (5) 2 g/kg paracetamol + 140 mg/kg NAC, (6) 2 g/kg paracetamol + 3 mg/kg infliximab, (7) 2 g/kg paracetamol + 5 mg/kg infliximab and (8) 2 g/kg paracetamol + 7 mg/kg infliximab groups. Liver function tests including lipid peroxidation levels were analyzed and histopathological changes of liver were also observed. There were statistically significant increases in the activities of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), levels of TNF-α and malondialdehyde (MDA) and decreases in the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and level of glutathione (GSH) in the group treated with paracetamol. Infliximab administration dramatically reduced serum ALT, AST and TNF-α level. Also, it restored GSH, SOD and decreased MDA levels in liver. Liver histopathological examination showed that infliximab administration antagonized paracetamol-induced liver pathological damage. The results of present study suggest that infliximab has significant hepatoprotective activity on paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity.