Curcumin prevents oxidative renal damage induced by acetaminophen in rats

Sodium Pentaborate Prevents Acetaminophen-Induced Hepatorenal Injury by Suppressing Oxidative Stress, Lipid Peroxidation, Apoptosis, and Inflammatory Cytokines in Rats

Acetaminophen (N-acetyl-p-aminophenol, APAP, or paracetamol) is one of the drugs that may be damaging to the kidneys and liver when used in excess. In this context, it is vital to treat these side effects on the liver and kidneys with various antioxidants. Diseases have been treated using herbal and mineral remedies since ancient times. The mineral boron, found in rocks and water, is a crucial ingredient with multiple positive biological effects. The primary objective of this research is to determine whether or not boron has a protective effect against the toxicity generated by APAP in rats. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were pretreated orally with boron-source sodium pentaborate (B50 and B100 mg/kg) for 6 days by gastric gavage in order to counteract the toxicity caused by a single dose of APAP (1g/kg). APAP increased lipid peroxidation as well as serum BUN, creatinine concentrations, and serum activities of AST, ALP, and ALT by consuming GSH in liver and kidney tissues. In addition, the activity of antioxidative enzymes, including SOD, CAT, and GPx, was diminished. Inflammatory indicators such as TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-33 were elevated in conjunction with APAP toxicity. In kidney and liver tissues, APAP dramatically increased the activity of caspase-3 and triggered apoptosis. Sodium pentaborate therapy on a short-term basis reduced biochemical levels despite these effects of APAP. This study showed that boron protects rats from the harmful effects of APAP by acting as an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-apoptotic agent.

Methanol Crude Peel Extract of P. granatum Prevents Oxidative Damage in Kidneys of Rats Exposed to Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy

Background

Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART) has been linked to oxidative damage to kidney cells leading to renal disease in people living with HIV/AIDS on HAART treatment. The toxic effects of HAART affect the patients' quality of life leading to poor adherence to their regimen. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the nephron-protective activity of methanol crude peel extract of Punica granatum (MPEPG) in HAART-administered Wistar rats.

Methods

Thirty male albino Wistar rats weighing between 180-200g were randomly divided into six groups of five rats each. Group one served as normal control and was given distilled water only. Group two serves as a negative control and was given HAART at a dosage of 64 mg/kg. Groups 3 and 4 were given 100 and 400 mg/kg of MPEPG, respectively, while groups 5 and 6 were given MPEPG dosages of 100 and 400 mg/kg along with HAART, respectively, for 40 days. The rats were sacrificed under halothane anaesthesia, and the kidneys were removed for histological evaluation, while blood samples were analyzed for biochemical parameters.

Results

In the HAART (TLD) treated group, there was a significantly high amount of MDA and a lower level of the antioxidant enzymes SOD and CAT. Biochemical analysis revealed that animals treated with HAART (TLD) had significantly higher levels of urea and creatinine, which are biomarkers of kidney damage than the normal control animals. In contrast, all the kidney function markers were returned to normal levels in the HAART-treated group after administration of methanol crude peel extract of P. granatum. The kidney tissues of animals given HAART had considerable structural damage as revealed by histopathological studies. When HAART-exposed rats were treated with MPEPG, both the biochemical and histological results significantly improved.

Conclusion

Methanol crude peel extract of P. granatum provided effective protection against kidney oxidative injury brought on by HAART because of its anti-oxidant and free radical scavenging properties.

Involvement of Nrf2, JAK and COX pathways in acetaminophen-induced nephropathy: Role of some antioxidants

Objectives

Acetaminophen (APAP)-induced nephrotoxicity is detrimental consequence for which there has not been a standardized therapeutic regimen. Although, N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a well-known antidote used in APAP-induced hepatotoxicity, its benefit in nephrotoxicity caused by APAP is almost lacking. This study aimed to compare the possible protective effect of thymoquinone (TQ), curcumin (CR), and α-lipoic acid (α-LA), either in solo or in combination regimens with that of NAC against APAP-induced renal injury.

Design and method

Rats were divided into nine groups; control group, APAP intoxicated group (1000 mg/kg; orally), and the remaining seven groups received, in addition to APAP, oral doses of NAC, TQ, CR, α-LA, CR plus TQ, TQ plus α-LA, or CR plus α-LA. The first dose of the aforementioned antioxidants was given 24 h before APAP, and then the second dose was given 2 h after APAP, whereas the last dose was given 10 h after administration of APAP.

Results

Treatment with APAP elevated kidney markers like serum uric acid, urea, and creatinine. In addition, it increased the serum level of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1beta (IL-1β) and thiobarbituric acid reactive species (TBARS). Also, the protein expression of renal janus kinase (JAK) and cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 were all upregulated by APAP. In contrast, the expression of Nrf2 and the renal levels of superoxide dismutase and glutathione were downregulated. Treatment with the indicated natural antioxidants resulted in amelioration of the aberrated parameters through exhibiting anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and free radical-scavenging effects with a variable degree.

Conclusion

The combined administration of CR and TQ exerted the most potent protection against APAP-induced nephrotoxicity through its anti-inflammatory and free radical-scavenging effects (antioxidant) which were comparable to that of NAC-treatment.

The Role of Vitamin E in Protecting against Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and the Neurotoxic Effects of Acute Paracetamol in Pregnant Female Rats

Paracetamol (acetaminophen, APAP) is the most common non-prescription analgesic drug used during pregnancy. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of vitamin E on acute APAP toxicity in pregnant rats. Toxicity in the liver, kidney, and brain (hippocampus, cerebellum, and olfactory bulb) was examined. Twenty pregnant female Wistar rats at gestational day 18 were used. Pregnant rats were divided into four groups: Control, APAP, E + APAP, and APAP + E. The Control group was treated with 0.5 mL p.o. corn oil. The APAP group received 3000 mg/kg p.o. APAP. The E + APAP group received 300 mg/kg p.o. vitamin E one hour before 3000 mg/kg APAP. The APAP + E group received 3000 mg/kg paracetamol one hour before 300 mg/kg p.o. vitamin E. Twenty-four hours after the last treatment administration, rats were euthanized and blood, brain, liver, and kidney samples were collected. Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine levels, uric acid (UA), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels, as well as the relative mRNA expression of Cyp1a4, Cyp2d6, and Nat2, were determined. Acute APAP treatment upregulated ALT, AST, BUN, and creatinine levels. APAP treatment downregulated UA and SOD levels. APAP treatment upregulated the relative mRNA expression of Cyp1a4 and Cyp2d6, but downregulated Nat2 expression. Vitamin E treatment, either before or after APAP administration, attenuated the toxic effects of APAP. In conclusion, the results showed that an acute toxic APAP dose in late pregnancy can cause oxidative stress and dysregulation in Cyp isoform expression, and that vitamin E treatment attenuates these effects.

Hepatoprotective Effect of Curcumin Nano-Lipid Carrier against Cypermethrin Toxicity by Countering the Oxidative, Inflammatory, and Apoptotic Changes in Wistar Rats

This study investigated the potential hepatoprotective activity of curcumin-incorporated nano-lipid carrier (Cur-NLC) against cypermethrin (Cyp) toxicity in adult Wistar male rats. All animals in groups III, IV, V, and VI were subjected to Cyp (50 mg/kg) toxicity for 15 days. Three different doses of Cur-NLC (1, 2.5, and 5 mg/kg/day) were administered orally for 10 days. The toxic effects were evaluated considering the increases in serum hepatic biomarkers alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total protein and albumin, and lipid peroxidation (LPO), as well as a decrease in antioxidative activity (reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase) and the upregulation of inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α). Immunohistochemistry studies of proteins (NF-κB, Apaf-1, 4-HNE, and Bax) showed enhanced expression, and histopathological examination revealed architectural changes in liver cells, indicating liver toxicity in animals. Toxicity was determined by quantitative and qualitative determinations of DNA fragmentation, which show massive apoptosis with Cyp treatment. The administration of Cur-NLC significantly ameliorates all changes caused by Cyp, such as a decrease in the levels of serum liver markers, an increase in antioxidative parameters, a decrease in expression of inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and NF-κB), and apoptosis (caspases-3, 9, Apaf-1, 4-HNE, and Bax), according to calorimetric and immunohistochemistry studies. The smear-like pattern of DNA is ameliorated similarly to the control at a high dose of Cur-NLC. Furthermore, all histopathological changes were reduced to a level close to the control. In conclusion, Cur-NLC could be a potent nutraceutical that exhibits a hepatoprotective effect against Cyp-induced hepatotoxicity in rats.

Notoginsenoside Fc ameliorates renal tubular injury and mitochondrial damage in acetaminophen-induced acute kidney injury partly by regulating SIRT3/SOD2 pathway

Introduction

Mitochondria dysfunction is one of the primary causes of tubular injury in acute kidney injury (AKI). Notoginsenoside Fc (Fc), a new saponin isolated from Panax notoginseng, exhibited numerous pharmacological actions. However, the beneficial effects of Fc on renal tubular impairment and mitochondrial dysfunction in AKI have not been fully studied.

Methods

In this study, we established acetaminophen (APAP)-induced AKI model in mice to examine the therapeutic impacts of Fc on AKI.

Results

Our results showed that Fc could decrease the levels of the serum creatinine (Scr), blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and Cystatin C in mice with AKI. Fc also ameliorated renal histopathology, renal tubular cells apoptosis and restored expression of apoptosis-related proteins such as Bax, Bcl-2 and caspase3 (C-caspase3). Additionally, Fc increased the protein expression of SIRT3 and SOD2 in kidneys from mice with AKI. In vitro studies further showed Fc reduced the apoptosis of HK-2 cells exposure to APAP, attenuated the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential and decreased the formation of mitochondrial superoxide. Fc also partly restored the protein expression of Bax, Bcl-2, C-Caspase3, SIRT3, and SOD2 in HK-2 cells exposure to APAP.

Conclusion

In summary, Fc might reduce renal tubular injury and mitochondrial dysfunction in AKI partly through the regulation of SIRT3/SOD2 pathway.

Curcumin attenuates renal ischemia reperfusion injury via JNK pathway with the involvement of p300/CBP-mediated histone acetylation

Apoptosis is proved responsible for renal damage during ischemia/reperfusion. The regulation for renal apoptosis induced by ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) has still been unclearly characterized to date. In the present study, we investigated the regulation of histone acetylation on IRI-induced renal apoptosis and the molecular mechanisms in rats with the application of curcumin possessing a variety of biological activities involving inhibition of apoptosis. Sprague–Dawley rats were randomized into four experimental groups (SHAM, IRI, curcumin, SP600125). Results showed that curcumin significantly decreased renal apoptosis and caspase-3/-9 expression and enhanced renal function in IRI rats. Treatment with curcumin in IRI rats also led to the decrease in expression of p300/cyclic AMP response element-binding protein (CBP) and activity of histone acetyltransferases (HATs). Reduced histone H3 lysine 9 (H3K9) acetylation was found near the promoter region of caspase-3/-9 after curcumin treatment. In a similar way, SP600125, an inhibitor of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), also attenuated renal apoptosis and enhanced renal function in IRI rats. In addition, SP600125 suppressed the binding level of p300/CBP and H3K9 acetylation near the promoter region of caspase-3/-9, and curcumin could inhibit JNK phosphorylation like SP600125. These results indicate that curcumin could attenuate renal IRI via JNK/p300/CBP-mediated anti-apoptosis signaling.

Nephroprotective activity of Annona Squamosa leaves against paracetamol-induced nephrotoxicity in rats: in vitro and in vivo experiments

Background

Paracetamol (PCM), being extensively adapted analgesic and anti-inflammatory drug all over the world, beyond therapeutic dosages, the oxidative stress-involved nephrotoxicity has been evidenced. However, herbal plants are the windfall for the humankind providing solution for most of the wellness breakdowns. Annona squamosa (AS) is one of such plants with enormous therapeutic and nutraceutical potencies. The main aspiration of the current investigation is to evaluate the nephroprotective ability of ethanolic extract of Annona squamosa (EEAS) leaves against paracetamol-induced nephrotoxicity using in vitro human embryonic kidney (HEK)-293 cells and in vivo experiments in Wistar rats through biochemical parameters, oxidative parameters, and histopathological findings.

Results

When HEK-293 cells were incubated with PCM, an increased cell death associated with alterations in the morphology of normal cells was observed. At variable concentrations, HEK-293 cells co-treated with PCM and EEAS extracts gave a significant improvement in cell growth on comparing with PCM treatment showing cytoprotective feature of EEAS with an IC50 28.75 μg/mL. In vivo nephroprotective property was assessed from the amount of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) along with creatinine and uric acid which were reduced (P < 0.001) within serum and compact levels of glutathione, catalase, and superoxide dismutase which were termed as GSH, CAT, and SOD, respectively, were increased (P < 0.001) in kidney tissue homogenate in the treated groups than the PCM alone group. Results were additionally supported by histopathological observations.

Conclusion

The results exhibited that EEAS has impending benefits against PCM-induced nephrotoxicity through in vitro and in vivo experiments.

Acetaminophen-induced renal toxicity: preventive effect of silver nanoparticles

Present study was planned to investigate the ameliorative effect of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) on acetaminophen-induced nephrotoxicity. Our results demonstrate that therapy of AgNPs at three different doses (50, 100 and 150 μg/kg once only) prevented the acetaminophen (2 g/kg once only) induced acute renal toxicity. AgNPs treated animals also show less intensity in the histological alterations in kidneys and corroborating the results of analysis of serum urea and creatinine. In addition, AgNPs therapy prevented the acetaminophen-induced oxidative stress, which was confirmed by the alleviated lipid peroxidation, enhanced renal reduced glutathione content and restored enzymatic activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase and adenosine triphosphatase in kidney. Thus, our results demonstrate a possible protective potential of AgNPs on renal toxicity induced by acetaminophen. This study will definitely lead to the development of therapeutic drug against nephrotoxicity, after further clinical and preclinical studies.

Curcumin Supplementation Alleviates Polymyxin E-Induced Nephrotoxicity

Background

The last-line agent for gram-negative bacteria that have developed resistance towards commonly used antibiotics is polymyxin E (PolyE). The renal toxicity attributed to this agent limits its use, proper dosing, and eventually its clinical efficacy. Although the exact mechanism of PolyE-induced nephrotoxicity is not obvious, some investigations suggest the role of oxidative stress and its associated events in this complication. Curcumin (CUR) is a potent antioxidant molecule. The aim of the current investigation was the evaluation of the potential nephroprotective properties of CUR in PolyE-treated mice.

Materials and Methods

Mice were randomly allocated into five groups (n = 8 per group). PolyE (15 mg/kg/day, i.v, for 7 days) alone or in combination with CUR (10, 100 and 200 mg/kg, i.p) were administered to mice. Renal injury biomarkers, in addition to markers of oxidative stress and kidney histopathological alterations, were evaluated.

Results

Plasma creatinine (Cr) and blood urine nitrogen (BUN) significantly raised in PolyE group. Oxidative stress biomarkers consisting of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipid peroxidation (LPO) also increased, and concomitantly GSH and antioxidant capacity of renal cells significantly decreased following the use of PolyE. Interstitial nephritis, tissue necrosis, and glomerular atrophy were all induced by the use of PolyE in the mice kidney. CUR (10, 100, and 200 mg/kg, i.p) treatment alleviated PolyE-induced oxidative stress and histopathological alterations in the kidney tissue significantly.

Conclusion

According to the results of this study, CUR has a protective role against renal toxicity induced by PolyE. Hence, more research is necessary until this compound could be clinically applicable to alleviate PolyE-induced renal injury.

Evaluation of the protective potential of hydroalcoholic extract of Thymus daenensis on acetaminophen-induced nephrotoxicity in rats

Background

Acetaminophen (APAP) is an antinociceptive and antipyretic drug that can be useful in therapeutic doses, although it can cause serious damage to the kidney if used overdose. The current study aimed to evaluate the protective effect of Thymus daenensis (TD) extract on APAP-induced kidney damage in rats.

Methods

Thirty female Wistar rats were randomly divided into 5 groups: control, APAP (3 g/kg), TD (500 mg/kg), APAP + TD (500 mg/kg), and APAP + N- acetylcysteine (140 mg/kg). The APAP groups received APAP on the 6th day and the rats were sacrificed on the 7th day. Plasma levels of creatinine (Cr) and urea were measured. Ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), nitric oxide (NO) metabolite, total thiol (T-SH), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and antioxidant enzymes activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and catalase (CAT) were measured in kidney tissue. The gene expression of TNF-α was also measured by real-time PCR. The histological examination of kidney tissue was also performed.

Results

Results showed that urea, Cr and FRAP markers markedly elevated in the APAP rats compared with the control group. There was a significant decrease in T-SH levels in the APAP animals in comparison with the control group. CAT activity also augmented in the APAP group compared to the control group. Urea and Cr levels were significantly decreased in the APAP + TD group in comparison with the APAP group. The administration of TD extract significantly increased the SOD enzyme activity. Histological findings were improved in the group treated with TD extract.

Conclusion

In general, the results indicate that TD extract can protect against APAP-induced nephrotoxicity by improving biochemical, histological and antioxidant effects. However, more studies are required to determine the mechanism of this extract.

Curcumin reduces malondialdehyde and improves antioxidants in humans with diseased conditions: a comprehensive meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Objective: This systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to collate the effects of curcumin on MDA and antioxidant markers in individuals with diseased conditions. In this study the research question was “does curcumin supplementation improves oxidative stress and antioxidant defense enzymes in human subjects compared to a group without curcumin supplementation?

Methods: This research included randomized controlled trials published in English in any year, in which intervention with curcumin was compared to either placebo, or standard of care or no intervention. Pubmed, Embase, Cochrane Central, Scopus and Google Scholar were searched. Meta-analysis was performed using RevMan (version 5.3), with standardized mean differences (SMD) and random-effects models.

Results: One hundred twenty-seven titles and abstracts were identified which 17 articles were included for final analysis. The number of participants ranged from 22 to 160 across the included studies. The duration of intervention, dose of curcumin and location of outcomes measurements varied across the studies. Curcumin significantly reduced MDA [SMD −0.46 (95% CI: −0.68 to −0.25)] and increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) [0.82 (0.27 to 1.38)], catalase [10.26 (0.92 to 19.61)], and glutathione peroxidase [8.90 (6.62 to 11.19)] when compared with control group. Subgroup analyses displayed that curcumin could significantly reduce MDA levels with or without use of piperine, however it could increase SOD level in presence of piperine.

Conclusions: These findings suggest that curcumin may be used as an adjunct therapy in individuals with oxidative stress. The administration of piperine with curcumin may enhance the efficacy of curcumin on antioxidant defense system.

Efficacy of curcumin on prevention of drug-induced nephrotoxicity: A review of animal studies

Drug-induced nephrotoxicity is a frequent serious adverse effect, contributing to morbidity and increased healthcare utilization. Prevention or reversal is key. Curcumin has useful biological features that include antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties. This review covers aspects of curcumin in relation to prevention of drug-induced nephrotoxicity: dosage and schedule, effect on kidney biomarkers and histological changes, and mechanisms of curcumin's protective effects. Despite success in some animal models, human studies and clinical administration of curcumin for nephroprotection remains limited due to difficulty in achieving therapeutic levels following oral administration and in determining the optimal dosing schedule. Lack of sufficient evidence from animal studies, coupled with low systemic bioavailability, continues to limit the utilization of curcumin in addressing and controlling drug-induced nephrotoxicity. Therefore, human studies are required to fully assess and validate the therapeutic potential of curcumin.

Effect of Ocimum basilicum leaves extract on acetaminophen-induced nephrotoxicity in BALB/c mice

Background

Acetaminophen (APAP) is one of the most widely used drugs to treat pain. Its overdose is lethal causing liver and kidney failure. Nephrotoxicity and hepatotoxicity are mostly due to the overproduction of reactive oxygen species. Ocimum basilicum, known as basil, is a commonly used medicinal plant due to its versatile role as antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-oxidative. We aim in this study to investigate the preventive and protective effect of basil leaves aqueous extract against APAP-induced hepatorenal toxicity in BALB/c mice.

Methods

Acute kidney injury (AKI) was induced in mice using APAP. Mice were treated with basils extract pre and post AKI induction. Kidney and liver functions were assessed by measuring creatinine, urea, alanine transaminase, and aspartate transaminase levels in serum. Superoxide dismutase, catalase (CAT), and malondialdehyde levels of renal and hepatic tissues were assayed using Elisa. Kidney injury molecule (KIM-1) was quantified in kidney homogenate. Histopathological analysis of kidney and liver were examined.

Results

Significant increase in all serum parameters, in hepatic and renal MDA, and in renal KIM-1 levels was observed post AKI induction. Treatment with basils post AKI induction minimized APAP damage by reducing serum markers and MDA in both organs and by increasing SOD and CAT. However, pretreatment with basils extract caused additional increase in serum ALT and AST and MDA in liver, with a significant increase in renal antioxidant enzymes. These results were confirmed by histopathological examination.

Conclusion

Basil extract may act as a natural antioxidant to treat APAP-induced acute hepato-renal toxicity when used as a post-treatment.

All-trans retinoic acid prevents cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats

The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) use on cisplatin (CP)-induced nephrotoxicty. Twenty-eight rats were randomly divided into four groups. The rats in the control group were injected a single dose of 1 ml/kg saline intra-peritoneally (IP) during 10 days. The rats in the ATRA group were injected a single dose of ATRA during 10 days. The rats in the ATRA+CP group were injected a single dose of CP on the fourth day of the 10 days of ATRA treatment. The rats in the CP group were injected a single dose of CP on the fourth day of 10 days without administering a treatment. After treatment, the groups were compared with regard to total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS), and oxidative stress index (OSI) levels in renal tissue and renal histopathology. The serum creatinine and urea values were statistically significantly higher in the CP group compared to the other groups. The serum creatinine and urea values were statistically significantly lower in the ATRA+CP group when compared to the CP group. Although the TOS and OSI levels were found to be lower in the ATRA+CP group compared to the CP group, the difference was not statistically significant. Administration of ATRA together with CP was observed to reduce the histopathologic destruction in the kidney and lead to mild tubular degeneration, vacuolization, and necrosis (57.1% grade 1; 28.6% grade2, and 14.3% grade 3 necrosis). The results of the present study have revealed that ATRA administration ameliorates CP-induced nephrotoxicity; however, further studies are required to identify this issue before clinical application.

Bioavailable curcumin formulations: A review of pharmacokinetic studies in healthy volunteers

Curcumin is a widely studied natural compound which has shown tremendous in vitro therapeutic potential. Despite that, the clinical efficacy of the native curcumin is weak due to its low bioavailability and high metabolism in the gastrointestinal tract. During the last decade, researchers have come up with different formulations with a focus on improving the bioavailability of curcumin. As a result, a significant number of bioavailable curcumin-based formulations were introduced with the varying range of enhanced bioavailability. The purpose of this review is to collate the published clinical studies of curcumin products with improved bioavailability over conventional (unformulated) curcumin. Based on the literature search, 11 curcumin formulations with available human bioavailability and pharmacokinetics data were included in this review. Further, the data on clinical study design, analytical method, pharmacokinetic parameters and other relevant details of each formulation were extracted. Based on a review of these studies, it is evident that better bioavailability of formulated curcumin products is mostly attributed to improved solubility, stability, and possibly low first-pass metabolism. The review hopes to provide a quick reference guide for anyone looking information on these bioavailable curcumin formulations. Based on the published reports, NovaSol® (185), CurcuWin® (136) and LongVida® (100) exhibited over 100-fold higher bioavailability relative to reference unformulated curcumin. Suggested mechanisms accounting for improved bioavailability of the formulations and details on the bioanalysis methods are also discussed.

Nano-composites chitosan-curcumin synergistically inhibits the oxidative stress induced by toxic metal cadmium

The present study intends to compare the influence of pre-treatment with nanoparticles of curcumin (Cr-NPS), chitosan (Ch-NPS) and nanocomposites chitosan-curcumin (CC-NPS) on cadmium (Cd)-induced oxidative damage in the liver, kidneys, and blood indices in Swiss strain adult male mice. The pretreated mice with Cr-NPS, Ch-NPS, and CC-NPS were exposed to Cd (10mg/kg) for three weeks. The non-enzymatic Oxidative Stress (OS) indices like lipid peroxides (TBARS), reduced total glutathione (GSH), enzymatic OS indices like catalase (CAT), glutathione S-transferase (GST) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were estimated together with some blood indices. Cadmium was able to induce a significant increase in TBARS and a significant decrease in GSH, GST, CAT and SOD levels in all the tissues, which were pretreated with nanocomposite. Furthermore, the blood indices like counts of red and white blood cells, platelets, hemoglobin and packed cell volume were also depleted due to Cd exposure but remained unaffected and kept under normal levels in pretreated mice group. The results indicate that Cr-NPS, Ch-NPS, and CC-NPS may act as natural antioxidants and when compared among the three, CC-NPS appears to be the best antioxidant.

Modulatory effect of curcumin against genotoxicity and oxidative stress induced by cisplatin and methotrexate in male mice

The use of dietary antioxidants to modulate the toxic side effects induced by the anticancer drugs used in chemotherapy is currently eliciting considerable interest. This study was undertaken to investigate the possible protective role of the antioxidant curcumin (CMN) against genotoxicity, cytotoxicity and oxidative stress induced by cisplatin and methotrexate. Male mice were administered CMN orally in the dosages of 60, 90, and 120 mg/kg for three consecutive days before a single intraperitoneal injection of either cisplatin (6.5 mg/kg) or methotrexate (10 mg/kg). Animals were sacrificed 24 h after treatment with the used anticancer drugs. The protective role of CMN against the genotoxic and cytotoxic effects of the tested anticancer drugs was evaluated by using micronucleus and comet assay. The oxidative stress induced by the two anticancer drugs was assessed by determining malondialdehyde and reduced glutathione levels in kidney tissues. The results indicated that CMN pretreatment at the tested doses reduced the incidence of micronuclei and DNA damage induced by cisplatin and methotrexate. Moreover, malondialdhyde level was significantly decreased while glutathione level was significantly increased in CMN pretreated groups compared with cisplatin- and methotrexate-treated groups. This protective effect of CMN could be attributed to its ability to scavenge reactive oxygen species.

The Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects of Curcumin in Middle Ear Infection

AIM

To investigate and analyze the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant efficacy of curcumin in experimentally induced middle ear infection.

METHOD

Twenty-four Wistar albino rats with otomicroscopic examination findings within normal limits were included in the study. Study groups were established after Streptococcus pneumoniae was inoculated into the middle ear cavity of all rats. No medication was administered to Group 1, the control group. Group 2 was administered 50 mg/kg/day amoxicillin intraperitoneally. Group 3 was administered 50 mg/kg/day amoxicillin together with 30 mg/kg/day curcumin intraperitoneally. Blood specimens and temporal bones were collected on the 10th day of medication from the 22 rats in which acute otitis media developed. Serum glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase activities and malondialdehyde levels were measured. Inflammatory cell infiltration, vascular proliferation, and epithelial proliferation were assessed histopathologically in middle ear mucosa specimens, and the results were compared among the groups.

RESULTS

Malondialdehyde levels in the group given curcumin were significantly lower than those of the control group, while serum glutathione peroxidase activity was also lower compared to that of the control group. No significant difference was observed among the groups in terms of superoxide dismutase activity. Although there were no significant findings in terms of histopathological data, epithelial proliferation in the groups receiving antibiotherapy was suppressed compared to the control group. Similarly, curcumin was observed to have a positive effect on inflammatory cell infiltration. No significant changes were observed in terms of vascular proliferation.

CONCLUSION

With its wide and safe dose range, curcumin represents grounds for optimism in terms of anti-inflammatory treatment in acute otitis media.

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.

Evaluation of ameliorative effect of curcumin on imidacloprid-induced male reproductive toxicity in wistar rats

This study was undertaken to investigate the toxic effects of imidacloprid (IM) on male reproductive system and ameliorative effect of curcumin (CMN) in male Wistar rats. For this purpose, IM (45 and 90 mg/kg, body weight) and CMN (100 mg/kg, body weight) were administered orally to the rats either alone or in combinations for a period of 28 days. At the end of experiment, male reproductive toxicity parameters (total sperm count and sperm abnormalities), testosterone level, steroidal enzymatic activity [3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD) and 17β-HSD], and oxidative stress indicators were estimated in testis and plasma. IM treatments resulted in significant decrease (p < 0.05) in total epididymal sperm count, sperm motility, live sperm count, and increase (p < 0.05) in sperm abnormalities. Activities of gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase, lactate dehydrogenase-x, and sorbitol dehydrogenase were significantly increased (p < 0.05), while, 3β-HSD and 17β-HSD enzymatic activity along with testosterone concentration in testis and plasma were decreased significantly (p < 0.05) in IM-treated rats. IM exposure resulted in significant increase (p < 0.05) in LPO and decrease (p < 0.05) in GSH level along with decreased activities of CAT, SOD, GPx, and GST. IM-treated rats showed histopathological alterations in testis and epididymis. However, the reproductive toxicity parameters, oxidative stress indicators, and histopathological changes were minimized and functional restorations were noticed by co-administration of CMN in IM-treated rats. The results of this study suggest that IM-induced male reproductive toxic effects could be ameliorated by CMN supplementation. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 31: 1250-1263, 2016.

Membrane Stabilization and Detoxification of Acetaminophen-Mediated Oxidative Onslaughts in the Kidneys of Wistar Rats by Standardized Fraction of Zea mays L. (Poaceae), Stigma maydis

This study evaluated membrane stabilization and detoxification potential of ethyl acetate fraction of Zea mays L., Stigma maydis in acetaminophen-induced oxidative onslaughts in the kidneys of Wistar rats. Nephrotoxic rats were orally pre- and posttreated with the fraction and vitamin C for 14 days. Kidney function, antioxidative and histological analyses were thereafter evaluated. The acetaminophen-mediated significant elevations in the serum concentrations of creatinine, urea, uric acid, sodium, potassium, and tissue levels of oxidized glutathione, protein-oxidized products, lipid peroxidized products, and fragmented DNA were dose-dependently assuaged in the fraction-treated animals. The fraction also markedly improved creatinine clearance rate, glutathione, and calcium concentrations as well as activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione reductase, and glutathione peroxidase in the nephrotoxic rats. These improvements may be attributed to the antioxidative and membrane stabilization activities of the fraction. The observed effects compared favorably with that of vitamin C and are informative of the fraction's ability to prevent progression of renal pathological conditions and preserve kidney functions as evidently supported by the histological analysis. Although the effects were prominently exhibited in the fraction-pretreated groups, the overall data from the present findings suggest that the fraction could prevent or extenuate acetaminophen-mediated oxidative renal damage via fortification of antioxidant defense mechanisms.

The modulatory effect of Moringa oleifera leaf extract on endogenous antioxidant systems and inflammatory markers in an acetaminophen-induced nephrotoxic mice model

N-Acetyl-p-Aminophenol (APAP), also known as acetaminophen, is the most commonly used over-the counter analgesic and antipyretic medication. However, its overdose leads to both liver and kidney damage. APAP-induced toxicity is considered as one of the primary causes of acute liver failure; numerous scientific reports have focused majorly on APAP hepatotoxicity. Alternatively, not many works approach APAP nephrotoxicity focusing on both its mechanisms of action and therapeutic exploration. Moringa oleifera (MO) is pervasive in nature, is reported to possess a surplus amount of nutrients, and is enriched with several bioactive candidates including trace elements that act as curatives for various clinical conditions. In this study, we evaluated the nephro-protective potential of MO leaf extract against APAP nephrotoxicity in male Balb/c mice. A single-dose acute oral toxicity design was implemented in this study. Group 2, 3, 4 and 5 received a toxic dose of APAP (400 mg/kg of bw, i.p) and after an hour, these groups were administered with saline (10 mL/kg), silymarin—positive control (100 mg/kg of bw, i.p), MO leaf extract (100 mg/kg of bw, i.p), and MO leaf extract (200 mg/kg bw, i.p) respectively. Group 1 was administered saline (10 mL/kg) during both the sessions. APAP-treated mice exhibited a significant elevation of serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, sodium, potassium and chloride levels. A remarkable depletion of antioxidant enzymes such as SOD, CAT and GSH-Px with elevated MDA levels has been observed in APAP treated kidney tissues. They also exhibited a significant rise in pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6) and decreased anti-inflammatory (IL-10) cytokine level in the kidney tissues. Disorganized glomerulus and dilated tubules with inflammatory cell infiltration were clearly observed in the histology of APAP treated mice kidneys. All these pathological changes were reversed in a dose-dependent manner after MO leaf extract treatment. Therefore, MO leaf extract has demonstrated some therapeutic effectiveness against APAP-induced nephrotoxicity through enhancement of the endogenous antioxidant system and a modulatory effect on specific inflammatory cytokines in kidney tissues.

Satkara (Citrus macroptera) Fruit Protects against Acetaminophen-Induced Hepatorenal Toxicity in Rats

Although Citrus macroptera (Rutaceae), an indigenous fruit in Bangladesh, has long been used in folk medicine, however, there is a lack of information concerning its protective effects against oxidative damage. The protective effects of an ethanol extract of Citrus macroptera (EECM) against acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity were investigated in rats. Rats (treatment groups) were pretreated with EECM at doses of 250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg, respectively, orally for 30 days followed by acetaminophen administration. Silymarin (100 mg/kg) was administered as a standard drug over a similar treatment period. Our findings indicated that oral administration of acetaminophen induced severe hepatic and renal injuries associated with oxidative stress, as observed by 2-fold higher lipid peroxidation (TBARS) compared to control. Pretreatment with EECM prior to acetaminophen administration significantly improved all investigated biochemical parameters, that is, transaminase activities, alkaline phosphatase, lactate dehydrogenase, γ-glutamyl transferase activities and total bilirubin, total cholesterol, triglyceride and creatinine, urea, uric acid, sodium, potassium and chloride ions, and TBARS levels. These findings were confirmed by histopathological examinations. The improvement was prominent in the group that received 1000 mg/kg EECM. These findings suggested that C. macroptera fruit could protect against acetaminophen-induced hepatonephrotoxicity, which might be via the inhibition of lipid peroxidation.

Curcumin Ameliorates Lead (Pb(2+))-Induced Hemato-Biochemical Alterations and Renal Oxidative Damage in a Rat Model

This study aims to evaluate the protective role of curcumin (Curc) against hematological and biochemical changes, as well as renal pathologies induced by lead acetate [Pb (CH3COO)2·3H2O] treatment. Male albino rats were intraperitoneally treated with Pb(2+) (25 mg of lead acetate/kg b.w., once a day) alone or in combination with Curc (30 mg of Curc/kg b.w., twice a day) for 7 days. Exposure of rats to Pb(2+) caused significant decreases in hemoglobin (Hb) content, hematocrit (Ht) value, and platelet (Plt) count, while Pb(2+)-related leukocytosis was accompanied by absolute neutrophilia, monocytosis, lymphopenia, and eosinopenia. A significant rise in lipid peroxidation (LPO) and a marked drop of total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were evident in the kidney, liver, and serum of Pb(2+) group compared to that of control. Furthermore, significantly high levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TGs), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and a sharp drop in serum high-density lipoprotein (HDL-C) level were also seen in blood after injection of Pb(2+). Additionally, hepatorenal function tests were enhanced. Meanwhile, Pb(2+) produced marked histo-cytological alterations in the renal cortex. Co-administration of Curc to the Pb(2+)-treated animals restored most of the parameters mentioned above to near-normal levels/features. In conclusion, Curc appeared to be a promising agent for protection against Pb(2+)-induced toxicity.

Thearubigins protect against acetaminophen-induced hepatic and renal injury in mice: biochemical, histopathological, immunohistochemical, and flow cytometry study

CONTEXT

Acetaminophen toxicity is used as a model for studying chemical toxicity. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is used for the treatment of hepatotoxicity; however, there is no specific therapy for nephrotoxicity.

OBJECTIVE

This study was designed to investigate the potential protective effect of black tea extract (BTE) and its main phenolic pigment, thearubigins (TRs), against acetaminophen (APAP)-induced hepatic and renal injury in mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Besides control groups, six groups (n = 8) were given intraperitoneally APAP (300 mg/kg) and then after 1.5 hours were treated intraperitoneally as follows: NAC (318 mg/kg), BTE (3%, 4.5%), and TRs (50, 60, and 70 mg/kg). Six hours post-APAP injection, blood was collected for biochemical measurements. Later, liver and kidneys were removed for histopathological, immunohistochemical, and flow cytometry studies.

RESULTS

APAP increased alanine aminotransferase and malondialdehyde and decreased glutathione levels in blood. Treatments significantly reversed these changes mostly with NAC and TRs70. TRs showed dose-dependent significant differences. The APAP-induced central lobular hepatic necrosis and increased TUNEL positivity were mild with co-administration of NAC and TRs (60, 70) while moderate with co-administration of BTE (3, 4.5) and TRs50. The APAP-increased serum creatinine level was significantly reversed by treatments (mostly TRs60, 70). The APAP-induced renal tubular epithelial degeneration and necrosis were mild with co-administration of TRs (60, 70) while moderate with co-administration of NAC, BTE (3, 4.5), and TRs50. The APAP-accumulated apoptotic cells in sub-G1 phase were significantly decreased by treatments, mostly by NAC and TRs70 in the liver and TRs (60, 70) in kidneys.

CONCLUSION

Thearubigins protected against acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity in mice possibly through their antioxidant activity.

Effects of local curcumin on oxidative stress and total antioxidant capacity in vivo study

Plants have been one of the important sources of medicine even since the-dawn of human civilization. Curcumin has been found to possess tremendous therapeutic potency as antiinflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial agent. The present study was designed to examine possible potential therapeutic and protective effect of curcumin from oxidative stress and on total antioxidant capacity in liver damage. The study was conducted using H2O2 as inducing agent of oxidative stress in vivo. Rats were randomly divided into five groups, where n = 20 for each group. Group 1 (G1) rats served as control group. Group 2 (G2) rats subjected to experimentally induced oxidative stress by the ad libitum supply of drinking water containing 0.5% H2O2(v/v) was prepared daily over entire 60 days. Group 3 (G3) rats received H2O2 for sixty days followed by giving 200 mg kg(-1) of curcumin for 30 days. Group 4 (G4) was simultaneously given curcumin (200 mg kg(-1)) for 15 days then followed by receiving H2O2 with curcumin for sixty days. Group 5 (G5) rats was received H2O2 for sixty days followed by giving 200 mg kg(-1) of N-acetyl 1-cystine as standard drug for 30 days. Levels of marker enzymes (ALT, AST and ALP), uric acid, Total Protein (TP) and tumor necrosis factor (α-TNF) were assessed in serum for all studied groups. Malondialdehyde (MDA), 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguinosine, Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC), reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) were assayed in liver homogenates for all studied groups. The results revealed significant increase (p < 0.05) in levels of ALT, AST, ALP, uric acid and α-TNF while there are significant decrease (p < 0.05) in levels of TP in G2 comparing to G1. Also there are significant differences (p < 0.05) between G3 and G4 comparing to G2 and between G3, G4 and G5 which curcumin elicited a significant hepatoprotective activity by lowering the levels of serum marker enzymes and lipid peroxidation. The results also revealed a significant increase (p < 0.05) in levels of MDA and 8-H-2-deoxy guinosine while there was significant reduction (p < 0.05) in TAC, GSH, SOD and catalase in G2 comparing to G1. Also there are significant differences (p < 0.05) between G3 and G4 comparing to G2 and between G3, G4 and G5. The conclusion could be drown from this study that the ability of curcumin as therapeutic agent and hepatoprotective against liver damage from oxidative damage and on TAC more than N-acetyl 1-cystine related to its antioxidant and free radical scavenger activity.

The protective effect of curcumin administration on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced nephrotoxicity in rats

BACKGROUND

The aim of the present study was to examine the protective effect of curcumin (CUR) on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced nephrotoxicity to evaluate the detailed mechanisms by which CUR exerts its protective action.

METHODS

Thirty male Wistar-Albino rats weighing 250-300 g were randomly divided into three groups: administrations of olive oil (control, po), CCl4 (0.5mg/kg in olive oil sc) every other day for 3 weeks, and CCl4 (0.5mg/kg in olive oil sc) plus CUR (200mg/kg) every day for 3 weeks.

RESULTS

Administration of CCl4 significantly (p<0.001) increased the levels of renal function test such as creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN). Furthermore, treatment of CCl4 significantly elevated the oxidant status of renal tissues while decreasing its anti-oxidant status (p<0.001). CUR displayed a renal protective effect as evident by significant decrease in inflammation and apoptosis during histopathological examination. The administration of CCl4 resulted in an increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) production due to an increase in membrane lipid peroxidation; however, the administration of CUR attenuated this, probably via its antioxidant and free radical scavenging properties.

CONCLUSION

The finding of our study indicates that CUR may have an important role to play in protecting the kidney from oxidative insult.

Protective Effect of Curcumin against the Liver Toxicity Caused by Propanil in Rats

We investigated the protective effects of curcumin on propanil-induced alterations in biochemical indices in blood and liver of male Wistar rats. The study consisted of four treatment groups, with six animals each, designated as control, propanil (20mg/kg), curcumin(50 mg/kg), and curcumin (50 mg/kg) + propanil (20 mg/kg). Rats were administered their respective doses orally, every other day, for 28 days. Propanil administration elicited significant (P < 0.001) increases in plasma aspartate aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase activities, by 24% and 56%, respectively, compared to the control. Treatment with propanil elevated bilirubin, creatinine, and total cholesterol levels in rats, but these were not significant relative to controls. Administration of propanil to rats significantly (P < 0.001) increased lipid peroxidation levels. However, catalase activity, vitamin C, and reduced glutathione levels were significantly reduced. Exposure to propanil did not produce any significant changes in packed cell volume, neutrophils, and leukocyte counts. The supplementation of curcumin attenuated the adverse effects of propanil intoxication by reducing lipid peroxidation levels and restored the levels of serum enzymes and reduced glutathione. The present study showed that propanil increased oxidative stress and altered some biochemical parameters in the rats but curcumin could afford some protection to attenuate propanil-induced toxicity in the liver.

Curcumin prevents maleate-induced nephrotoxicity: relation to hemodynamic alterations, oxidative stress, mitochondrial oxygen consumption and activity of respiratory complex I

The potential protective effect of the dietary antioxidant curcumin (120 mg/Kg/day for 6 days) against the renal injury induced by maleate was evaluated. Tubular proteinuria and oxidative stress were induced by a single injection of maleate (400 mg/kg) in rats. Maleate-induced renal injury included increase in renal vascular resistance and in the urinary excretion of total protein, glucose, sodium, neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) and N-acetyl β-D-glucosaminidase (NAG), upregulation of kidney injury molecule (KIM)-1, decrease in renal blood flow and claudin-2 expression besides of necrosis and apoptosis of tubular cells on 24 h. Oxidative stress was determined by measuring the oxidation of lipids and proteins and diminution in renal Nrf2 levels. Studies were also conducted in renal epithelial LLC-PK1 cells and in mitochondria isolated from kidneys of all the experimental groups. Maleate induced cell damage and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in LLC-PK1 cells in culture. In addition, maleate treatment reduced oxygen consumption in ADP-stimulated mitochondria and diminished respiratory control index when using malate/glutamate as substrate. The activities of both complex I and aconitase were also diminished. All the above-described alterations were prevented by curcumin. It is concluded that curcumin is able to attenuate in vivo maleate-induced nephropathy and in vitro cell damage. The in vivo protection was associated to the prevention of oxidative stress and preservation of mitochondrial oxygen consumption and activity of respiratory complex I, and the in vitro protection was associated to the prevention of ROS production.

Prevention of renal dysfunction by nutraceuticals prepared from oil rich plant foods

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the protective effect of extracts prepared from avocado, walnut, flaxseed and Eruca sativa seeds in a rat model of kidney dysfunction induced by intraperitoneal cisplatin.

METHODS

Ethanol and petroleum ether extracts mixture was prepared from each plant. Six groups of rats were conducted; control healthy, cisplatin group and four test groups where rats were given daily oral dose of each extract mixture before cisplatin injection. Different biochemical and cytogenetic parameters and kidney histopathology were determined. Acute toxicity was tested for the nutraceuticals. Total phenolic contents, fatty acids (FA) and unsaponifiable matter were assessed in the extracts.

RESULTS

Walnut ethanol extract showed the highest content of total phenolic. FA analysis revealed that all the studied plants were rich in unsaturated FA. Gas-liquid chromatographic investigation of the unsaponifiable matter showed the presence of campesterol, stigmasterol and β-sitosterol in all the studied plants. Cisplatin treatment induced significant increase in plasma urea, creatinine and malondialdehyde along with significant reduction of plasma albumin, total protein, catalase and total antioxidant as well as reduction in creatinine clearance. Histopathological examination proved the induction of kidney dysfunction. Some sorts of chromosomal aberration and sperm-shape abnormalities were noticed after cisplatin treatment. Administration of extracts mixtures produced improvements in biochemical, histopathological and cytogenetic parameters.

CONCLUSIONS

Administration of the studied nutraceuticals proved to possess protective role against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity, chromosomal aberration and abnormal sperms. All studied nutraceuticals showed complete safety.

Curcumin Protects against Ovariectomy-Induced Bone Changes in Rat Model

Osteoporosis is a metabolic disease affecting both men and women especially in postmenopausal women. Curcumin possesses many medicinal properties. In this study, thirty two female Sprague-Dawley rats were used to determine the potential effect of curcumin in prevention of bone loss following ovariectomy. The animals were divided into Sham group, ovariectomised control, ovariectomised treated with curcumin 110 mg/kg and ovariectomised treated with Premarin 100 μg/kg. The treatments were given via daily oral gavages for 60 days. The structural parameters such as bone volume, trabecular number, trabecular thickness and trabecular separation were found to be deteriorated in ovariectomised rats compared to Sham group. Moreover, the reduced osteoblast count, the increased osteoclast count and increased eroded surface were found in ovariectomised groups. Treatment with curcumin was able to reverse all these ovariectomy-induced deteriorations. Curcumin treatment was as effective as Premarin in most parameters except the bone volume and eroded surface, which were better than Premarin. The high dose of curcumin treatment was not only able to reduce the osteoclast number but also increase the osteoblast count. Therefore, the potential effect of curcumin can be applied as an alternative to oestrogen for prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis.

Curcumin induces Nrf2 nuclear translocation and prevents glomerular hypertension, hyperfiltration, oxidant stress, and the decrease in antioxidant enzymes in 5/6 nephrectomized rats

Renal injury resulting from renal ablation induced by 5/6 nephrectomy (5/6NX) is associated with oxidant stress, glomerular hypertension, hyperfiltration, and impaired Nrf2-Keap1 pathway. The purpose of this work was to know if the bifunctional antioxidant curcumin may induce nuclear translocation of Nrf2 and prevents 5/6NX-induced oxidant stress, renal injury, decrease in antioxidant enzymes, and glomerular hypertension and hyperfiltration. Four groups of rats were studied: (1) control, (2) 5/6NX, (3) 5/6NX +CUR, and (4) CUR (n = 8–10). Curcumin was given by gavage to NX5/6 +CUR and CUR groups (60 mg/kg/day) starting seven days before surgery. Rats were studied 30 days after NX5/6 or sham surgery. Curcumin attenuated 5/6NX-induced proteinuria, systemic and glomerular hypertension, hyperfiltration, glomerular sclerosis, interstitial fibrosis, interstitial inflammation, and increase in plasma creatinine and blood urea nitrogen. This protective effect was associated with enhanced nuclear translocation of Nrf2 and with prevention of 5/6NX-induced oxidant stress and decrease in the activity of antioxidant enzymes. It is concluded that the protective effect of curcumin against 5/6NX-induced glomerular and systemic hypertension, hyperfiltration, renal dysfunction, and renal injury was associated with the nuclear translocation of Nrf2 and the prevention of both oxidant stress and the decrease of antioxidant enzymes.

Induction of oxidative stress in kidney

Oxidative stress has a critical role in the pathophysiology of several kidney diseases, and many complications of these diseases are mediated by oxidative stress, oxidative stress-related mediators, and inflammation. Several systemic diseases such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and hypercholesterolemia; infection; antibiotics, chemotherapeutics, and radiocontrast agents; and environmental toxins, occupational chemicals, radiation, smoking, as well as alcohol consumption induce oxidative stress in kidney. We searched the literature using PubMed, MEDLINE, and Google scholar with “oxidative stress, reactive oxygen species, oxygen free radicals, kidney, renal injury, nephropathy, nephrotoxicity, and induction”. The literature search included only articles written in English language. Letters or case reports were excluded. Scientific relevance, for clinical studies target populations, and study design, for basic science studies full coverage of main topics, are eligibility criteria for articles used in this paper.

Challenges associated with curcumin therapy in Alzheimer disease

Curcumin, the phytochemical agent in the spice turmeric, which gives Indian curry its yellow colour, is also a traditional Indian medicine. It has been used for millennia as a wound-healing agent and for treating a variety of ailments. The antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative and other properties of curcumin have only recently gained the attention of modern pharmacology. The mechanism of action of curcumin is complex and multifaceted. In part, curcumin acts by activating various cytoprotective proteins that are components of the phase II response. Over the past decade, research with curcumin has increased significantly. In vitro and in vivo studies have demonstrated that curcumin could target pathways involved in the pathophysiology of Alzheimer disease (AD), such as the β-amyloid cascade, tau phosphorylation, neuroinflammation or oxidative stress. These findings suggest that curcumin might be a promising compound for the development of AD therapy. However, its insolubility in water and poor bioavailability have limited clinical trials and its therapeutic applications. To be effective as a drug therapy, curcumin must be combined with other drugs, or new delivery strategies need to be developed.

Curcuma as a functional food in the control of cancer and inflammation

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Several nutritional compounds are the focus of public attention because of their potential beneficial health effects. Turmeric is a spice that comes from the root Curcuma longa. Extensive research over the past half century and especially in recent years has revealed important functions of curcumin and a timely review of clinical state-of-the-art using curcumin.

RECENT FINDINGS

In-vitro and in-vivo research has shown various activities, such as anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antifungal, cytokines release, antioxidant, immunomodulatory, enhancing of the apoptotic process, and antiangiogenic properties. Curcumin also have been shown to be a mediator of chemo-resistance and radio-resistance.

SUMMARY

Various in-vitro and in-vivo and scarce number of clinical studies on curcumin were identified. The various effects and properties of curcumin are summarized in this review, including preclinical and especially clinical studies. This review concentrates on recent knowledge and research with curcumin clinical applications, and clinical studies, focusing on studies published between 2008 and 2011 demonstrating the gap between preclinical and clinical research.

Protective effect of curcumin on cypermethrin-induced oxidative stress in Wistar rats

The aim of present study was to investigate the protective effect of curcumin on cypermethrin-induced changes in blood biochemical markers and tissue antioxidant enzyme in rats. Rats were divided into six groups of six each: group I used as control and II and III groups were used as vehicle control. While, groups IV, V and VI were orally treated with curcumin (100 mg/kg body weight), cypermethrin (25 mg/kg body weight) and cypermethrin plus curcumin, respectively for 28 days. Serum biochemical markers were measured in the serum, and the levels of lipid peroxidation and antioxidant enzyme activity were determined in the liver, kidney and brain. Cypermethrin administration caused elevated level of blood biochemical markers in serum and lipid peroxidation in liver, kidney and brain. While the activities of non-enzymatic and enzymatic antioxidants levels were decreased except superoxide dismutase in liver, kidney and brain tissues. The presence of curcumin with cypermethrin significantly decreased the blood biochemical markers and lipid peroxidation but significantly increased the reduced glutathione, catalase and glutathione peroxidase level and preserved the normal histological architecture of the liver, kidney and brain. Our results indicate that curcumin can be potent protective agent against cypermethrin-induced biochemical alterations and oxidative damage in rats.

Curcumin improves early functional results after experimental spinal cord injury

BACKGROUND

Curcumin is a polyphenol extracted from the rhizome of Curcuma longa and well known as a multifunctional drug with anti-oxidative, anticancerous, and anti-inflammatory activities. The aim of the study was to evaluate and compare the effects of the use of the curcumin and the methylprednisolone sodium succinate (MPSS) functionally, biochemically, and pathologically after experimental spinal cord injury (SCI).

METHOD

Forty rats were randomly allocated into five groups. Group 1 was performed only laminectomy. Group 2 was introduced 70-g closing force aneurysm clip injury. Group 3 was given 30 mg/kg MPSS intraperitoneally immediately after the trauma. Group 4 was given 200 mg/kg of curcumin immediately after the trauma. Group 5 was the vehicle, and immediately after trauma, 1 mL of rice bran oil was injected. The animals were examined by inclined plane score and Basso-Beattie-Bresnahan scale 24 h after the trauma. At the end of the experiment, spinal cord tissue samples were harvested to analyze tissue concentrations of malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, and catalase (CAT) activity and pathological evaluation.

FINDINGS

Curcumin treatment improved neurologic outcome, which was supported by decreased level of tissue MDA and increased levels of tissue GSH-Px, SOD, and CAT activity. Light microscopy results also showed preservation of tissue structure in the treatment group.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed the neuroprotective effects of curcumin on experimental SCI model. By increasing tissue levels of GSH-Px, SOD, and CAT, curcumin seems to reduce the effects of injury to the spinal cord, which may be beneficial for neuronal survival.

Effects of medical ozone therapy on acetaminophen-induced nephrotoxicity in rats

Acetaminophen (APAP), also known as paracetamol, is the commonest cause of toxic ingestion in the world. Because overdose of APAP has life-threatening effects on kidney, treatment of APAP-induced nephrotoxicity has life-saving importance. Aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of medical ozone therapy in experimental model of APAP toxication. Twenty-one male Wistar rats (200-250 g) were randomly assigned into three groups containing seven rats each: Sham, control (only APAP treated), and APAP + ozone therapy groups. Rats were killed 48 hours after administration of APAP. Urea, creatinine levels in the blood, and malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity in renal tissue were measured. Kidney tissues were stained with hematoxylin and eosin for histological assessment. APAP administration deteriorated the renal functions and significantly elevated renal MDA levels and depleted SOD and GSH-Px activities. Ozone therapy significantly reduced the MDA level, increased the SOD and GSH-Px activities, and normalized the renal histology. In conclusion, our study results are consistent with encouraging data for ozone therapy on APAP-induced nephrotoxicity in rats by improving antioxidant mechanism and oxidative stress.