The effects of evening primrose oil on lipid peroxidation induced by subacute aflatoxin exposure in mice

Baicalin protects against hepatocyte injury caused by aflatoxin B1 via the TP53-related ferroptosis Pathway

OBJECTIVE

Baicalin has antioxidative, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. However, its ability to alleviate oxidative stress (OS) and DNA damage in liver cells exposed to aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), a highly hepatotoxic compound, remains uncertain. In this study, the protective effects of baicalin on AFB1-induced hepatocyte injury and the mechanisms underlying those effects were investigated.

METHODS

Stable cell lines expressing CYP3A4 were established using lentiviral vectors to assess oxidative stress levels by conducting assays to determine the content of reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA), and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Additionally, DNA damage was evaluated by 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and comet assays. Transcriptome sequencing, molecular docking, and in vitro experiments were conducted to determine the mechanisms underlying the effects of baicalin on AFB1-induced hepatocyte injury. In vivo, a rat model of hepatocyte injury induced by AFB1 was used to evaluate the effects of baicalin.

RESULTS

In vitro, baicalin significantly attenuated AFB1-induced injury caused due to OS, as determined by a decrease in ROS, MDA, and SOD levels. Baicalin also considerably decreased AFB1-induced DNA damage in hepatocytes. This protective effect of baicalin was found to be closely associated with the TP53-mediated ferroptosis pathway. To elaborate, baicalin physically interacts with P53, leading to the suppression of the expression of GPX4 and SLC7A11, which in turn inhibits ferroptosis. In vivo findings showed that baicalin decreased DNA damage and ferroptosis in AFB1-treated rat liver tissues, as determined by a decrease in the expression of γ-H2AX and an increase in GPX4 and SLC7A11 levels. Overexpression of TP53 weakened the protective effects of baicalin.

CONCLUSIONS

Baicalin can alleviate AFB1-induced OS and DNA damage in liver cells via the TP53-mediated ferroptosis pathway. In this study, a theoretical foundation was established for the use of baicalin in protecting the liver from the toxic effects of AFB1.

Aflatoxin B1 exposure deteriorates immune abnormalities in a BTBR T+ Itpr3tf/J mouse model of autism by increasing inflammatory mediators' production in CD19-expressing cells

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by deficiencies in communication, repetitive and stereotyped behavioral patterns, and difficulties in reciprocal social engagement. The presence of immunological dysfunction in ASD has been well established. Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is a prevalent mycotoxin found in food and feed, causing immune toxicity and hepatotoxicity. AFB1 is significantly elevated in several regions around the globe. Existing research indicates that prolonged exposure to AFB1 results in neurological problems. The BTBR T+ Itpr3tf/J (BTBR) mice, which were used as an autism model, exhibit the primary behavioral traits that define ASD, such as repeated, stereotyped behaviors and impaired social interactions. The main objective of this work was to assess the toxic impact of AFB1 in BTBR mice. This work aimed to examine the effects of AFB1 on the expression of Notch-1, IL-6, MCP-1, iNOS, GM-CSF, and NF-κB p65 by CD19+ B cells in the spleen of the BTBR using flow cytometry. We also verified the impact of AFB1 exposure on the mRNA expression levels of Notch-1, IL-6, MCP-1, iNOS, GM-CSF, and NF-κB p65 in the brain of BTBR mice using real-time PCR. The findings of our study showed that the mice treated with AFB1 in the BTBR group exhibited a substantial increase in the presence of CD19+Notch-1+, CD19+IL-6+, CD19+MCP-1+, CD19+iNOS+, CD19+GM-CSF+, and CD19+NF-κB p65+ compared to the mice in the BTBR group that were treated with saline. Our findings also confirmed that administering AFB1 to BTBR mice leads to elevated mRNA expression levels of Notch-1, IL-6, MCP-1, iNOS, GM-CSF, and NF-κB p65 in the brain, in comparison to BTBR mice treated with saline. The data highlight that exposure to AFB1 worsens immunological abnormalities by increasing the expression of inflammatory mediators in BTBR mice.

Aflatoxin B1 exposure exacerbates chemokine receptor expression in the BTBR T+ Itpr3tf/J Mouse Model, unveiling insights into autism spectrum disorder: A focus on brain and spleen

OBJECTIVE

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by significant difficulties in social interaction, communication, and repeated stereotypic behaviour. Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is the most potent and well-known mycotoxin in various food sources. Despite its propensity to generate significant biochemical and structural changes in human and animal tissues, the influence of AFB1 on ASD has yet to be thoroughly studied. Mounting evidence indicates that chemokine receptors play a crucial function in the central nervous system and are implicated in developing several neuroinflammatory disorders. Chemokine receptors in individuals with ASD were elevated in the anterior cingulate gyrus astrocytes, cerebellum, and brain.

METHODS

The BTBR T+Itpr3tf/J (BTBR) mice are inbred strains that exhibit strong and consistently observed deficits in social interactions, characterized by excessive self-grooming and limited vocalization in social contexts. We examined the impact of AFB1 on CCR3-, CCR7-, CCR9-, CXCR3-, CXCR4-, and CXCR6-expressing I-A/I-E+ cells in the spleen of the BTBR mouse model of autism. We evaluated the mRNA levels of CCR3, CCR7, CCR9, CXCR3, CXCR4, and CXCR6 chemokine receptors in the brain.

RESULTS

The exposure to AFB1 in BTBR mice resulted in a significant rise in the number of I-A/I-E+CCR3+, I-A/I-E+CCR7+, I-A/I-E+CCR9+, I-A/I-E+CXCR3+, I-A/I-E+CXCR4+, and I-A/I-E+CXCR6+ cells. Furthermore, exposure to AFB1 increased mRNA expression levels of CCR3, CCR7, CCR9, CXCR3, CXCR4, and CXCR6 in the brain.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings highlight that AFB1 exposure increases the expression of chemokine receptors in BTBR mice, indicating the necessity for further research into AFB1's role in the development of ASD.

Natural compounds mitigate mycotoxins-induced neurotoxicity by modulating oxidative tonus: in vitro and in vivo insights - a review

This review explores the repercussions of mycotoxin contamination in food and feed, emphasising potential threats to agriculture, animal husbandry and public health. The primary objective is to make a comprehensive assessment of the neurotoxic consequences of mycotoxin exposure, an aspect less explored in current literature. Emphasis is placed on prominent mycotoxins, including aflatoxins, fumonisins, zearalenone (ZEA) and ochratoxins, known for inducing acute and chronic diseases such as liver damage, genetic mutation and cancer. To elucidate the effects, animal studies were conducted, revealing an association between mycotoxin exposure and neurological damage. This encompasses impairments in learning and memory, motor alterations, anxiety and depression. The underlying mechanisms involve oxidative stress, disrupting the balance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidant capacity. This oxidative stress is linked to neuronal damage, brain inflammation, neurochemical imbalance, and subsequent behavioural changes. The review underscores the need for preventive measures against mycotoxin exposure. While complete avoidance is ideal, exploration into the potential use of antioxidants as a viable solution is discussed, given the widespread contamination of many food products. Specifically, the protective role of natural compounds, such as polyphenols, is highlighted, showcasing their efficacy in mitigating mycotoxicosis in the central nervous system (CNS), as evidenced by findings in various animal models. In summary, countering mycotoxin-induced neurotoxicity requires a multifaceted approach. The identified natural compounds show promise, but their practical use hinges on factors like bioavailability, toxicity and understanding their mechanisms of action. Extensive research is crucial, considering the diverse responses to different mycotoxins and neurological conditions. Successful implementation relies on factors such as the specific mycotoxin(s) involved and achievable effective concentrations. Further research and clinical trials are imperative to establish the safety and efficacy of these compounds in practical applications.

Acute aflatoxin B1-induced hepatic and cardiac oxidative damage in rats: Ameliorative effects of morin

Aflatoxins (AFs) are secondary metabolites produced by the fungus Aspergillus flavus, of which Aflatoxin-B1 (AFB1) appears to be the most cancerogenic and of the highest toxicity. AFB1 causes serious effects on several organs including the liver. Morin is a flavonol that exists in many fruits and plants and has diverse biological properties including anticancer, anti-atherosclerotic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and multi-organ protective activities. The present study aims to evaluate the potential protective effects of morin against acute AFB1-induced hepatic and cardiac toxicity in rats. Forty rats were divided into five groups (n = 8) as follows: control received the vehicle, morin was orally administered 30/mg/kg body weight (MRN30), the AFB1 was administered orally at a dose of 2.5 mg/kg, twice on days 12 and 14 of the experiment for the 3rd, 4th, and 5th groups., AFB1-MRN15 was orally given morin at a dose of 15 mg/kg body weight, and AFB1-MRN30 orally received morin at 30 mg/kg body weight. The results indicated a significant decrease in serum AST, ALP, LDH, GGT, CK, CK-MB, 8-OHdG, IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-a levels in MRN30 compared to AFB1, and AFB1-MRN15 groups. However, the results indicated non-significant differences in the serum levels between MRN30, control, and AFB1-MRN30 groups. Meanwhile, regarding the hepatic and cardiac parameters, there were significant differences in the levels of MDA, NO, GSH, GSH-Px, SOD, and CAT in MRN30 compared to AFB1, and AFB1-MRN15 groups, overall implying the protective effects of morin. To conclude, morin at a dose of 30 mg/kg b. wt. showed significant enhancements in acute AFB1-induced hepatic and cardiac toxicity in rats, which could play a role in limiting the public health hazards of AFs.

Aflatoxin B1 Exposure Aggravates Neurobehavioral Deficits and Immune Dysfunctions of Th1, Th9, Th17, Th22, and T Regulatory Cell-Related Transcription Factor Signaling in the BTBR T+Itpr3tf/J Mouse Model of Autism

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disease characterized by impaired communication, reciprocal social interactions, restricted sociability deficits, and stereotyped behavioral patterns. Environmental factors and genetic susceptibility have been implicated in an increased risk of ASD. Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is a typical contaminant of food and feed that causes severe immune dysfunction in humans and animals. Nevertheless, the impact of ASD on behavioral and immunological responses has not been thoroughly examined. To investigate this phenomenon, we subjected BTBR T+Itpr3tf/J (BTBR) mice to AFB1 and evaluated their marble-burying and self-grooming behaviors and their sociability. The exposure to AFB1 resulted in a notable escalation in marble-burying and self-grooming activities while concurrently leading to a decline in social contacts. In addition, we investigated the potential molecular mechanisms that underlie the impact of AFB1 on the production of Th1 (IFN-γ, STAT1, and T-bet), Th9 (IL-9 and IRF4), Th17 (IL-17A, IL-21, RORγT, and STAT3), Th22 (IL-22, AhR, and TNF-α), and T regulatory (Treg) (IL-10, TGF-β1, and FoxP3) cells in the spleen. This was achieved using RT-PCR and Western blot analyses to assess mRNA and protein expression in brain tissue. The exposure to AFB1 resulted in a significant upregulation of various immune-related factors, including IFN-γ, STAT1, T-bet, IL-9, IRF4, IL-17A, IL-21, RORγ, STAT3, IL-22, AhR, and TNF-α in BTBR mice. Conversely, the production of IL-10, TGF-β1, and FoxP3 by CD4+ T cells was observed to be downregulated. Exposure to AFB1 demonstrated a notable rise in Th1/Th9/Th22/Th17 levels and a decrease in mRNA and protein expression of Treg. The results above underscore the significance of AFB1 exposure in intensifying neurobehavioral and immunological abnormalities in BTBR mice, hence indicating the necessity for a more comprehensive investigation into the contribution of AFB1 to the development of ASD.

Curcumin as a Potential Antioxidant in Stress Regulation of Terrestrial, Avian, and Aquatic Animals: A Review

Stress has brought about a variety of harmful impacts on different animals, leading to difficulties in the management of animal husbandry and aquaculture. Curcumin has been recognized as a potential component to ameliorate the adverse influence of animal stress induced by toxicity, inflammation, diseases, thermal effect, and so on. In detail, this compound is known to offer various outstanding functions, including antibacterial properties, antioxidant effects, immune response recovery, and behavioral restoration of animals under stress conditions. However, curcumin still has some limitations, owing to its low bioavailability. This review summarizes the latest updates on the regulatory effects of curcumin in terms of stress management in terrestrial, avian, and aquatic animals.

Polydatin reduces aflatoxin-B1 induced oxidative stress, DNA damage, and inflammatory cytokine levels in mice

This study showed the protective effect of polydatin (PD), which has an antioxidant activity against oxidative stress in mice caused by aflatoxin B1 (AFB1). In this study, 36 male Swiss albino mice were divided equally into 6 groups: 0.2 mL of FTS was administered to the control group, 0.2 mL of olive oil to the second group, and 0.75 mg/kg AFB1 to the third group by intragastric gavage every day for 28 days. The fourth, fifth, and sixth groups were administered 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg PD and 0.75 mg/kg AFB1 intragastrically for 28 days, respectively. AFB1 administration increased plasma aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, and malondialdehyde levels in blood and tissue samples but decreased the level of glutathione and the activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase. On the other hand, it was determined that PD applications depending on the increasing doses brought these levels closer to normal. In addition, AFB1 administration increased the amount of ssDNA and liver COX-2, TNF-α, IL-6, NFκB, and Cyp3a11 mRNA expression levels; on the other hand, it decreased the IL-2 mRNA expression level. In contrast, increasing doses of PD application regulated the amount of ssDNA and these mRNA expression levels. Additionally, histopathological damage was observed in the liver and kidney tissues of the AFB1 group, while PD applications in a dose-dependent manner improved these damages. As a result, it was determined that PD reduced AFB1-induced oxidative stress, DNA damage, and inflammation and exhibited a protective effect on tissues in mice.

Boron exhibits hepatoprotective effect together with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic pathways in rats exposed to aflatoxin B1

BACKGROUND

Aflatoxins are one of the important environmental factors that pose a risk to living organisms. On the other hand, it has been indicated in research that boron intake has beneficial effects on organisms. In this study, the effect of boron was disclosed in rats exposed to aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), which poses a toxicological risk.

METHODS

A total of 36 male Sprague Dawley rats were separated into 6 groups and 0.125 mg/kg bw AFB1 and 5, 10, or 20 mg/kg bw doses of boron were given orally for 21 days. End of the experiment, biochemical, molecular, and histopathological analyses were performed.

RESULTS

AFB1 treatment increased liver enzyme activities (AST, ALT, and ALP) and malondialdehyde level; on the other hand, it caused a decrease in glutathione level, superoxide dismutase and catalase activities. In addition, the mRNA expression levels of apoptotic (Bax, Caspase-3, Caspase-8, Caspase-9, and p53) and pro-inflammatory (TNF-α and NFκB) genes increased and the mRNA expression of the anti-apoptotic gene (Bcl-2) decreased in liver tissue. Also, AFB1 treatment increased DNA damage and caused histopathological alterations in the liver tissue. Additionally, boron applications at doses of 5, 10, and 20 mg/kg bw given with AFB1 reversed these negative changes.

CONCLUSIONS

As a result, boron exhibited hepatoprotective effect together with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects against AFB1-induced liver damage.

Evening primrose oil attenuates oxidative stress, inflammation, fibrosis, apoptosis, and ultrastructural alterations induced by metanil yellow in the liver of rat: a histological, immunohistochemical, and biochemical study

The food color metanil yellow (Myl) is hazardous to several body systems. Evening primrose oil (EPO) was reported to have anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties. The present work investigated the impact of Myl on the hepatic structure and function of rats and evaluated the protective effect of EPO. Forty adult male rats were divided into four groups: control, EPO (5 g/kg/day), Myl (200 mg/kg/day), and EPO- Myl group. Myl significantly increased liver enzymes, advanced glycation end products (AGE), oxidative stress parameters, pro-inflammatory cytokines, nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). Blood vessels in the liver were dilated and congested, with cellular infiltration around them and associated with fibrosis. The hepatocytes were vacuolated and had dark nuclei. The immunohistochemical expression of iNOS, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), and Bax was significantly elevated. Ultrastructurally, the hepatocytes showed lipid droplets, irregular condensed nuclei with widened perinuclear space, dilated rER, mitochondria with destructed cristae, and multiple vacuoles. Dilated congested blood sinusoids and collagen fiber bundles were seen between hepatocytes. Interestingly, these alterations were less pronounced in rats co-administrated with EPO and Myl. In conclusion, EPO can protect liver against the toxic effects of Myl due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant activities.

Penthorum Chinense Pursh Extract Alleviates Aflatoxin B1-Induced Liver Injury and Oxidative Stress Through Mitochondrial Pathways in Broilers

Aflatoxin is an important toxicant of the fungal origin and poses a threat to the poultry industry. This study was designed to reveal the underlying mechanism and protective methods against aflatoxin B1 (AFB1)-induced liver injury, oxidative stress, and apoptosis using a Traditional Chinese medicine, Penthorum chinense Pursh extract (PCPE), in broilers. A total of 164 (day-old) broilers were equally allocated to the control, AFB1 (3 mg/kg feed), positive drug (Yin-Chen-Hao Tang extract, 10 ml/kg feed), PCPE (2 g PCPE/kg), and PCPE low, medium, and high dose groups (1 g, 2 g, 3 g PCPE/kg feed, respectively). AFB1 significantly decreased the growth performance and serum immunoglobulin level, altered normal serum biochemical parameters and antioxidant activities, and induced histopathological lesions in the liver as compared to control group. Additionally, AFB1 significantly up-regulated the mRNA expression levels of apoptosis-related genes such as Bax, Bak, caspase-9, caspase-3, and p53, whereas it down-regulated the expression levels of BCL2 in the liver of broilers. The supplementation of different doses of PCPE to AFB1-affected birds significantly eased AFB1 negative effects by improving growth performance, immunoglobulin level, and oxidative capacity, and reversed oxidative stress and pathological lesions in liver. Furthermore, supplementation of PCPE to the AFB1 group reversed apoptosis by significantly down-regulating the mRNA expression levels of Bax, Bak, caspase-9, caspase-3, and p53 and up-regulating the expression levels of BCL2 in the liver of broilers. Based on these results, we conclude that supplementation of PCPE is protective and safe against oxidative stress, is anti-apoptotic, and reverses the liver damage caused by AFB1 in broilers.

Aflatoxin B1 induces microglia cells apoptosis mediated by oxidative stress through NF-κB signaling pathway in mice spinal cords

Many studies have shown that aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) can cause cytotoxicity in numerous cells and organs induced by oxidative stress. However, the toxic effects and related mechanism of AFB1 on the microglia cells in the spinal cords have not been studied yet. Our results showed that AFB1 significantly reduced the number of microglia cells, increased the oxidants (malonaldehyde and hydrogen peroxide) but decreased the anti-oxidants (superoxide dismutase and total antioxidant capacity) in a dose dependent manner in mice spinal cords. In addition, AFB1 significantly increased the oxidative stress, promoted apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in G2-M phase, and activated NF-κB phosphorylation in BV2 microglia cells. However, the addition of active oxygen scavenger N-acetylcysteine can significantly reduce the ROS production, improve cell cycle arrest, reduce apoptosis, and the expression of phosphorylated NF-κB in BV2 microglia cells. These results indicate that AFB1 induces microglia cells apoptosis through oxidative stress by activating NF-κB signaling pathway.

Penthorum chinense Pursh Compound Ameliorates AFB1-Induced Oxidative Stress and Apoptosis via Modulation of Mitochondrial Pathways in Broiler Chicken Kidneys

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is a carcinogenic mycotoxin widely present in foods and animal feeds; it represents a great risk to human and animal health. The aim of this study was to investigate the protective effects of Penthorum chinense Pursh compound (PCPC) against AFB1-induced damage, oxidative stress, and apoptosis via mitochondrial pathways in kidney tissues of broilers. One-day-old chickens (n = 180) were randomly allocated to six groups: control, AFB1 (2.8 mg AFB1/kg feed), positive drug (10 mLYCHT/kg feed), and PCPC high, medium, and low-dose groups (15, 10, and 5 ml PCPC/kg feed, respectively). AFB1 treatment reduced weight gain and induced oxidative stress and kidney damage in broiler tissues; however, PCPC supplementation effectively enhanced broiler performance, ameliorated AFB1-induced oxidative stress, and inhibited apoptosis in the kidneys of broilers. The mRNA expression levels of mitochondria-related apoptosis genes (Bax, Bak, cytochrome c, caspase-9, and caspase-3) were significantly increased, whereas BCL2 expression level decreased in the AFB1 group. Supplementation of PCPC to the AFB1 group significantly reversed the changes in mRNA expression levels of these apoptosis-associated genes compared to those in the AFB1 group. The mRNA levels of NRF2 and HMOX1 in the kidneys of the AFB1 group were significantly reduced compared to those in the control group, whereas PCPC significantly increased the NRF2 and HMOX1 mRNA levels. AFB1 decreased the levels of Beclin1, LC3-I, and LC3-II and increased P53 levels in the kidney compared to those in the control, whereas PCPC significantly reversed these changes to normal levels of autophagy-related genes compared to those in the AFB1 group. In conclusion, our findings demonstrated that PCPC ameliorated AFB1-induced oxidative stress by regulating the expression of apoptosis-related genes and mitochondrial pathways. Our results suggest that PCPC represents a natural and safe agent for preventing AFB1-induced injury and damage in broiler tissues.

Protective Effects of Evening Primrose Oil against Cyclophosphamide-Induced Biochemical, Histopathological, and Genotoxic Alterations in Mice

Cyclophosphamide (CP) is a well-known antineoplastic agent; however, its clinical use can be associated with various organ toxicities. Evening primrose oil (EPO) contains several phytoconstituents with potent anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. This experimental study was performed to investigate the chemoprotective effects of EPO in the liver and pancreas of CP-intoxicated mice. Thirty-two albino mice were randomly divided into 4 equal groups: group I received saline (control mice), group II were treated with CP at 100 mg/kg/day for two subsequent days, and groups III and VI were treated with 5 and 10 mg/kg/day bw EPO, respectively for 14 days, followed by two doses of CP at the 15th and 16th days of the experiment. Then, mice were sacrificed and histopathological examinations, biochemical studies, and DNA laddering tests were conducted for hepatic and pancreatic tissues. Cyclophosphamide-intoxicated mice showed significant increases (p < 0.05) in the serum levels of liver enzymes, pancreatic amylase and tissue levels of malondialdehyde, and TNF-α, as well as a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in the serum insulin level. In addition, both hepatic and pancreatic tissues showed disturbed tissue architecture, hydropic degeneration, congested vessels, and inflammatory infiltrates, as well as increased DNA fragmentation. In a dose-dependent manner, pretreatment with EPO was associated with significant improvements (p < 0.05) in all biochemical parameters and significant amelioration of histopathological alterations and DNA fragmentation in CP-intoxicated mice. Pretreatment with EPO showed significant antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and genoprotective effects against the toxic effects of CP in mice hepatic and pancreatic tissues.

Protective effects of lycopene against AFB1-induced erythrocyte dysfunction and oxidative stress in mice

To evaluate the protective role of lycopene (LYC) against aflatoxin B₁ (AFB₁)-induced erythrocyte dysfunction and oxidative stress, male kunming mice were treated with LYC (5 mg/kg) and/or AFB₁ (0.75 mg/kg) by intragastric administration for 30 d. Hematological indices were detected to assess erythrocyte function. The erythrocytes C3b receptor rate (E-C3bRR) and erythrocytes C3b immune complex rosette rate (E-ICRR) were detected to assess erythrocyte immune function. Hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and malondialdehyde (MDA) contents and superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities were determined to evaluate erythrocyte oxidative stress. The results showed that LYC administration significantly relieved AFB₁-induced erythrocyte dysfunction by increasing the levels of red blood cell count (RBC), hemoglobin (HGB) and hematocrit (HCT), as well as reducing red blood cell volume distribution width (RDW) level, while the levels of mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) and mean platelet volume (MPV) had no significant differences among the four groups. Besides, LYC ameliorated AFB1-induced erythrocyte immune dysfunction by increasing E-C3bRR and decreasing E-ICRR. Furthermore, LYC also alleviated AFB₁-induced erythrocyte oxidative stress by decreasing H₂O₂ and MDA contents and increasing SOD and CAT activities. These results indicated that LYC protected against AFB₁-induced erythrocyte dysfunction and oxidative stress in mice. The findings could lead a possible therapeutics for the management of AFB₁-induced erythrocyte toxicity.

Oxidative DNA damage and multi-organ pathologies in male mice subchronically treated with aflatoxin B1

Although the acute and/or chronic exposure to AFB₁ has been widely investigated, the study on the toxic effects resulted from the subchronic exposure of AFB₁ which is more close to the real scenario in view of the regional and seasonal characters of aflatoxin-producing strains is still limited. To understand the subchronically toxic effects of AFB₁, we studied the AFB₁-induced oxidative damage, reproductive impairment as well as their potential correlations and mechanisms at the molecular level. Generally, our results showed that subchronic exposure of AFB₁ gave rise to pathological and oxidative damages in mice, disrupted oxidation-reduction homeostasis, activated mitochondrial apoptotic and p53-regulated signaling pathways, induced DNA and chromosomal damages and increased the rate of sperm malformation. Importantly, reproductive toxic effects were detected in AFB₁-treated mice under a subchronic exposure, which was evidenced by the ascended sperm malformation. Based on our pilot study, it's speculated that the partial mechanism of reproductive toxicity may be the oxidative damages, especially DNA damages directly induced by AFB₁. In short, our study demonstrated that severe damages can be caused even by a subchronic exposure as well as hinted that reproductive toxicity also should be taken into consideration when conducting risk assessments of the subchronic exposure of AFB₁.

Behavioural and biochemical effects of one-week exposure to aflatoxin B1 and aspartame in male Wistar rats

Food products are susceptible to contamination by mycotoxins, and aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) stands as the most toxic among them. AFB1 intoxication results in distinct signs, including widespread systemic toxicity. Aspartame (ASP) is an artificial sweetener used as a sugar substitute in many products, and compelling evidence indicates ASP can be toxic. Interestingly, mechanisms underlying ASP and AFB1 toxicity involve oxidative stress. In this context, concomitant use of ASP and AFB1 in a meal may predispose to currently unidentified behavioural and biochemical changes. Therefore, we evaluated the effect of AFB1 (250 μg/kg, intragastrically (i.g.)) and/or ASP (75 mg/kg, i.g.) exposure for 7 days on behavioural and biochemical markers of oxidative stress in male Wistar rats. AFB1 and/or ASP increased hepatic glutathione S-transferase (GST) activity when compared to controls. In the kidneys, increased GST activity was detected in AFB1 and AFB1+ASP groups. In addition, AFB1 and or ASP elicited behavioural changes in the open field, marble burying and splash tests, however no additive effects were detected. Altogether, present data suggest AFB1 and ASP predispose to anxiety- and obsessive-compulsive-like symptoms, as well as to enzymatic defence system imbalance in liver and kidney of Wistar rats.

Lycopene attenuates AFB1-induced renal injury with the activation of the Nrf2 antioxidant signaling pathway in mice

Oxidative stress is an important molecular mechanism for kidney injury in aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) nephrotoxicity. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is a master transcription factor for regulating the cellular oxidative stress response, which has been confirmed in animal models. Lycopene (LYC), a natural carotenoid, has received extensive attention due to its antioxidant effect with the activation of Nrf2. However, the role of LYC in protecting against AFB1-induced renal injury is unknown. To evaluate the chemoprotective effect of LYC on AFB1-induced renal injury, forty-eight male mice were randomly divided into 4 groups and treated with LYC (5 mg per kg of bodyweight) and/or AFB1 (0.75 mg per kg of bodyweight) by intragastric administration for 30 days. AFB1 and LYC were respectively dissolved in olive oil. We found that AFB1 exposure significantly increased the serum concentrations of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinine (SCR), and caused damage to the renal structure. Notably, LYC potentially alleviated AFB1-induced kidney lesions through attenuating AFB1-induced oxidative stress. Renal nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and its downstream target gene (CAT, NQO1, SOD1, GSS, GCLM and GCLC) translation and protein expression were ameliorated by pretreatment with LYC in AFB1-exposed mice. These results suggested that LYC potentially alleviates AFB1-induced renal injury. This effect may be attributed to the enhancement of renal antioxidant capacity with the activation of the Nrf2 antioxidant signaling pathway.

Egg Yolk Immunoglobulin Supplementation Prevents Rat Liver from Aflatoxin B1-Induced Oxidative Damage and Genotoxicity

Egg yolk immunoglobulins (IgY), as nutraceutical supplement for therapeutic or prophylactic intervention, have been extensively studied. The effects of IgY on small molecular toxin-induced toxicity in animals are unclear. In the present study, the protection of highly purified and specific anti-AFB₁ IgY against AFB₁-induced genotoxicity and oxidative damage on the rat liver model were investigated. Our results revealed that AFB₁ induced significant oxidative damage markers, as well as AFB₁-induced protein expression in antioxidant, pro- and antiapoptosis processes in rat liver. These effects could be significantly inhibited by cogavage with anti-AFB₁ IgY in a dose-dependent manner. However, anti-AFB₁ IgY did not significantly induce hepatic CAT and SOD1. To explore mechanisms, metabolite experiments were established to evaluate the influence of anti-AFB₁ IgY on the absorption of AFB₁ in rats. Middle and high doses of anti-AFB₁ IgY reduced hepatic AFB₁-DNA adducts by 43.3% and 52.9%, AFB₁- N⁷-guanine urinary adducts by 19.6% and 34.4%, and AFB₁-albumin adducts by 10.5% and 21.1%, respectively. The feces of high dose anti-AFB₁ IgY cogavaged rats contained approximately 2-fold higher AFB₁ equivalents at 3-6 h after ingestion than AFB₁ group feces, indicating IgY inhibited AFB₁ uptake. These results had provided insight that anti-AFB₁ IgY could prevent animal organs from damage caused by AFB₁ and will be beneficial for the application of detoxification antibody as a supplement in food.

Oxidative Stress in Extrahepatic Tissues of Rats Co-Exposed to Aflatoxin B1 and Low Protein Diet

Early life exposure to aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) and low protein diet through complementary foods during weaning is common in parts of Africa and Asia. This study evaluated the effect of co-exposure to AFB1 and low protein diet on the extrahepatic tissues of rats. Twenty-four three-week old weanling male albino rats were used for this study and were randomly assigned into four groups: group 1 served as control and was fed normal protein diet (20% protein), group 2 was fed low protein diet (5% protein), group 3 was fed normal protein diet + 40 ppb AFB1 while group 4 received low protein diet + 40 ppb AFB1, all for eight weeks. Afterward, biomarkers of anemia (packed cell volume (PCV), hemoglobin) and kidney function (urea, uric acid, and creatinine) were determined in the blood while biomarkers of oxidative stress were determined in the tissues spectrophotometrically. Co-exposure to AFB1 and low protein diet significantly (p < 0.05) decreased body weight gain and PCV, increased biomarkers of kidney functions and induced oxidative stress in the tissues studied. There was significant (p < 0.05) reduction in glutathione concentration while TBARS was significantly increased in the tissues. Co-exposure to AFB1 and low protein diet had additive effects on decreasing the weight gain and potentiation effect of kidney dysfunction in the rats. The co-exposure also decreased antioxidant enzymes and increased oxidant status in the tissues. Our results demonstrate that this co-exposure has deleterious health effects on extrahepatic tissues and should be a public health concern especially in developing countries where AFB1 contamination is common.

The effects of diosmin on aflatoxin-induced liver and kidney damage

Aflatoxin is among the natural toxins that cause serious side effects on living things. Diosmin is also one of the compounds with broad pharmacological effects. In this study, the effects on the oxidant/antioxidant system of 50 mg/kg body weight/day dose of diosmin, aflatoxin (500 μg/kg body weight/day), and combined aflatoxin (500 μg/kg body weight/day) plus diosmin (50 mg/kg body weight/day) given to the stomach via catheter female adult Wistar Albino rats is examined. Forty rats were used in the experiment, and these animals were randomly allocated to four equal groups. The test phase lasted 21 days, and blood samples and tissue (liver and kidney) samples were taken after this period was over. Some biochemical parameters (glucose, triglyceride, cholesterol, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, uric acid, lactate dehydrogenase, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, total protein, albumin) and levels of malondialdehyde, nitric oxide, and 4-hydroxynonenal and activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase were analyzed in the samples. The aflatoxin administered over the period indicated a significant increase in levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), and 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE) in all tissues and blood samples. Therewithal, the activity of antioxidant enzymes showed a change in the decreasing direction. Biochemical parameters of the group in which aflatoxin were administered alone changed unfavorably. Parallel effects were also observed in the histopathological findings of this group. The results showed that aflatoxin changed antioxidant/oxidant balance in favor of oxidant and eventually led to lipid peroxidation. Diosmin administration to aflatoxin-treated animals resulted in positive changes in antioxidant enzyme activities while the levels of MDA, NO, and 4-HNE were reduced in all tissues and blood samples examined. Diosmin alleviates the oxidative stress caused by aflatoxin. Similar improvement was observed in biochemical parameters of this group as well as in liver and kidney histopathology. No significant change was observed in the group treated with diosmin alone in terms of the parameters examined and histologic findings. As a result, diosmin may be included in compounds that can be used as a therapeutic and prophylactic agent in the event of the formation of aflatoxin exposure and poisoning in animals.

The ameliorative effect of Aspergillus awamori on aflatoxin B1-induced hepatic damage in rabbits

This study was conducted to investigate the effect of dietary supplementation of Aspergillus awamori on aflatoxin B1 (AFB1)-induced liver damage in rabbits. Administration of AFB1 (0.3 mg/kg diet) led to a significant reduction in body weight, body weight gain, total feed intake, total serum proteins, albumin, high density lipoprotein-cholesterol, phagocytic activity, phagocytic index, and the antioxidant enzyme, glutathione peroxidase (GPx). Moreover, AFB1 administration was associated with a significant increase in feed conversion ratio, lipid peroxidation and serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, gamma-glutamyl transferase, lactate dehydrogenase and total bilirubin. In addition, livers of AFB1-supplemented animals showed fatty degeneration with vacuolisation, focal areas of necrosis, mononuclear cells infiltration hyperplasia of bile ducts and sinusoids. A significant increase in the hepatic expression of the biotransformation gene (Cyp3A6), stress-sensitive genes (HO1 and SOD1), and inflammation-related genes (IL6, TNFa, NF-kB, and Cox2) was also observed. Supplementation of the diets with 0.05, 0.1 or 0.15% A. awamori ameliorated all AFB1 deleterious effects with the best improvement observed at the lowest concentration. This is the first investigation to report that supplementation of rabbit diets with A. awamori has an ameliorative effect against AFB1-induced liver damage possibly through preventing hepatic oxidative stress, promoting the antioxidant defence systems, and inhibiting expression of Cyp3A6, HO1, SOD1, IL6, TNFa, NF-kB, and Cox2. Therefore, A. awamori could be used as a potential preventive or therapeutic agent for aflatoxicosis.

Evaluation of the bioactive extract of actinomyces isolated from the Egyptian environment against aflatoxin B1-induce cytotoxicity, genotoxicity and oxidative stress in the liver of rats

This study aimed to determine the bioactive compounds of actinomyces (ACT) isolated from the Egyptian environment (D-EGY) and to evaluate their protective activity against AFB₁ in female Sprague-Dawley rats. Six groups of animals were treated orally for 3 weeks included: C, the control group, T1, AFB₁-treated group (80 μg/kg b.w), T2 and T3, the groups received ACT extract at low (25 mg/kg b.w) or high (50 mg/kg b.w) doses, T4 and T5, the groups received AFB₁ plus the low or high dose of ACT extract. Blood, bone marrow and tissue samples were collected for different analyses and histological examination. The results revealed the identification of 40 components, representing 99.98%. Treatment with AFB₁ disturbs liver function parameters, oxidative stress markers, antioxidant gene expressions, DNA fragmentation and induced severe histological changes. ACT extract at the low or high doses did not induce significant changes in all the tested parameters or histological picture of the liver. Moreover, ACT extract succeeded to induce a significant protection against the toxicity of AFB₁. It could be concluded that the bioactive compounds in ACT are promise candidate for the development of food additive or drugs for the protection and treatment of liver disorders in the endemic area.

Curcumin Prevents Aflatoxin B₁ Hepatoxicity by Inhibition of Cytochrome P450 Isozymes in Chick Liver

This study was designed to establish if Curcumin (CM) alleviates Aflatoxin B₁ (AFB₁)-induced hepatotoxic effects and to determine whether alteration of the expression of cytochrome P450 (CYP450) isozymes is involved in the regulation of these effects in chick liver. One-day-old male broilers (n = 120) were divided into four groups and used in a two by two factorial trial in which the main factors included supplementing AFB₁ (< 5 vs. 100 μg/kg) and CM (0 vs. 150 mg/kg) in a corn/soybean-based diet. Administration of AFB₁ induced liver injury, significantly decreasing albumin and total protein concentrations and increasing alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase activities in serum, and induced hepatic histological lesions at week 2. AFB₁ also significantly decreased hepatic glutathione peroxidase, catalase, and glutathione levels, while increasing malondialdehyde, 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine, and exo-AFB₁-8,9-epoxide (AFBO)-DNA concentrations. In addition, the mRNA and/or activity of enzymes responsible for the bioactivation of AFB₁ into AFBO-including CYP1A1, CYP1A2, CYP2A6, and CYP3A4-were significantly induced in liver microsomes after 2-week exposure to AFB₁. These alterations induced by AFB₁ were prevented by CM supplementation. Conclusively, dietary CM protected chicks from AFB₁-induced liver injury, potentially through the synergistic actions of increased antioxidant capacities and inhibition of the pivotal CYP450 isozyme-mediated activation of AFB₁ to toxic AFBO.

Effect of the Fusarium toxins, zearalenone and deoxynivalenol, on the mouse brain

The aim of this study was to find effects of Fusarium toxins on brain injury in mice. We evaluated the individual and combined effect of the Fusarium toxins zearalenone and deoxynivalenol on the mouse brain. We examined brain weight, protein, antioxidant indicators, and apoptosis. After 3 and 5days of treatment, increased levels of nitric oxide, total nitric oxide synthase, hydroxyl radical scavenging, and malondialdehyde were observed in the treatment groups. This was accompanied by reduced levels of brain protein, superoxide dismutase (apart from the low-dose zearalenone groups), glutathione, glutathione peroxidase activity, and percentage of apoptotic cells. By day 12, most of these indicators had returned to control group levels. The effects of zearalenone and deoxynivalenol were dose-dependent, and were synergistic in combination. Our results suggest that brain function is affected by zearalenone and deoxynivalenol.

Exposure to aflatoxin B1 in late gestation alters protein kinase C and apoptotic protein expression in murine placenta

Mycotoxins are chemicals with diverse toxicities that are produced by fungi. Aflatoxin B1 is commonly found in plant food, and is generally regarded as one of the most toxic mycotoxins. In the present study, pregnant ICR mice were given p.o. daily doses of aflatoxin B1 at 0, 0.05, 0.5, 5mg/kg for 4days (from E13.5 to E16.5). Compared to the control group, time of delivery was shortened and low birth weight was induced in mice treated with 0.5 and 5mg aflatoxin B1/kg, respectively. Placental tissue isolated from pregnant mice at E17.5 showed that the mRNA expression of crh was increased in aflatoxin-treated groups. This upregulation might signify premature delivery. Further analysis indicated that Pkc proteins were activated and Bcl-2 was reduced in the placental tissue of the aflatoxin-treated groups. Reduction of the anti-apoptotic proteins, on the other hand, might affect the morphorgenesis and maintenance of the placenta.

Coexistence of Aflatoxicosis with Protein Malnutrition Worsens Hepatic Oxidative Damage in Rats

To investigate the effects of the coexistence of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) and protein malnutrition in rat liver, weanling rats were fed either normal protein diet (20% protein), low-protein (PEM) diet (5%), normal protein diet + 40 ppb AFB1, or low-protein diet + 40 ppb AFB1. After 8 weeks, biomarkers of hepatic functions and oxidative stress, caspase-3 activity, and tumor suppressor protein 53 (p53) were determined spectrophotometrically. Randomly amplified polymorphic DNA polymerase chain reaction (RAPD-PCR) was employed to determine genomic alterations among the groups. Coexistence of aflatoxicosis and PEM significantly decreased glutathione, glutathione-S-transferase, glutathione peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase, while it increased peroxidase and catalase. RAPD-PCR showed genomic alterations that were associated with significant increases in p53 level and caspase-3 activity in rats fed PEM diet + AFB1. In conclusion, the coexistence of aflatoxicosis and protein malnutrition induced oxidative stress with concomitant genomic alterations in the liver of weanling rats.

Molecular Mechanisms of Lipoic Acid Protection against Aflatoxin B₁-Induced Liver Oxidative Damage and Inflammatory Responses in Broilers

Alpha-lipoic acid (α-LA) was evaluated in this study for its molecular mechanisms against liver oxidative damage and inflammatory responses induced by aflatoxin B₁ (AFB₁). Birds were randomly allocated into four groups with different diets for three weeks: a basal diet, a 300 mg/kg α-LA supplementation in a basal diet, a diet containing 74 μg/kg AFB₁, and 300 mg/kg α-LA supplementation in a diet containing 74 μg/kg AFB₁. In the AFB₁ group, the expression of GSH-P_X mRNA was down-regulated (p < 0.05), and the levels of lipid peroxide and nitric oxide were increased (p < 0.05) in the chicken livers compared to those of the control group. Additionally, the mRNA level of the pro-inflammatory factor interleukin-6 was up-regulated significantly (p < 0.05), the protein expressions of both the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) p65 and the inducible nitric oxide synthase were enhanced significantly (p < 0.05) in the AFB₁ group. All of these negative effects were inhibited by α-LA. These results indicate that α-LA may be effective in preventing hepatic oxidative stress, down-regulating the expression of hepatic pro-inflammatory cytokines, as well as inhibiting NF-κB expression.

Hepatotoxic effects of mycotoxin combinations in mice

This study was performed to assess the individual and combined toxic effects of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), zearalenone (ZEA) and deoxynivalenol (DON) within the liver of mice. A total of 56 4-week-old weanling female mice were divided into seven groups (n = 8). For 2 weeks, each group received an oral administration of either solvent (control), AFB1, ZEA, DON, AFB1 + ZEA, AFB1 + DON or ZEA + DON per day. The results showed that AFB1, ZEA and DON induced liver injury, indicated by elevated relative liver weight, activities of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and/or aspartate aminotransferase (AST), as well as decreased albumin (ALB) and/or total protein (TP) concentration in the serum. These mycotoxins also decreased hepatic total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), and/or increased the concentration of malondialdehyde (MDA). Moreover, AFB1 + DON displayed synergistic effects, while AFB1 + ZEA displayed antagonistic effects on those parameters previously described. Furthermore, the apoptotic potential was demonstrated associated with an upregulation of the apoptotic genes Caspase-3 and Bax, along with a downregulation of the antiapoptotic gene Bcl-2 in liver. In conclusion, this study provides a better understanding of the toxic effects of AFB1, ZEA, DON, alone or in combinations on the liver of mice, which could contribute to the risk assessment of these mycotoxins in food and feed.

Effectiveness of activated carbon and Egyptian montmorillonite in the protection against deoxynivalenol-induced cytotoxicity and genotoxicity in rats

This study was conducted to prepare and characterize activated carbon (AC) and to evaluate its protective effect against deoxynivalenol (DON) toxicity in rats compared to Egyptian montmorillonite (EM). AC was prepared using a single-step chemical activation with phosphoric acid (H3PO4). The resulted AC has a high surface area and a high total pore volume. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into 6 groups (n = 10) and treated for 3 weeks as follow: the control group, the groups fed AC or EM-supplemented diet (0.5% w/w), the group treated orally with DON (5 mg/kg b.w.) and the groups fed AC or EM-supplemented diet and treated with DON. Blood and liver samples were collected for different analyses. Treatment with DON increased liver function enzymes, lipid peroxidation, tumor necrosis factor α, DNA fragmentation, decreased hepatic glutathione content, up regulating mRNA Fas and TNF-α genes expression and increased micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes and normochromatic erythrocytes in bone marrow. Co-treatment of DON plus AC or EM succeeded to normalize the levels of the biochemical parameters, reduced the cytotoxicity of bone marrow and ameliorated the hepatic genotoxicity. Moreover, AC was more effective than EM and has a high affinity to adsorb DON and to reduce its cytotoxicity and genotoxicity.

Prevention of Aflatoxin B1 Hepatoxicity by Dietary Selenium Is Associated with Inhibition of Cytochrome P450 Isozymes and Up-Regulation of 6 Selenoprotein Genes in Chick Liver

BACKGROUND

The involvement of cytochrome P450 (CYP450) isozymes and the selenogenome in selenium-mediated protection against aflatoxin B1 (AFB1)-induced adverse effects in broilers remains unclear.

OBJECTIVE

This study was designed first to determine whether selenium could reduce AFB1-induced hepatotoxic effects and then to determine whether these effects were due to changes in the CYP450 isozymes and selenogenome expression in the liver of chicks.

METHODS

Male avian broilers (aged 120 d) were allocated to 4 groups with 5 replicates of 6 birds to be included in a 2-by-2 factorial trial in which the main factors included supplementation of AFB1 (<5 compared with 100 μg/kg) and selenium (0.2 compared with 0.5 mg/kg) in a corn/soybean-based diet for 4 wk. Serum biochemistry, hepatic histology, and mRNA and/or activities of hepatic antioxidant enzymes, CYP450 isozymes, and 26 selenoproteins were analyzed at week 2 and/or 4.

RESULTS

Administration of AFB1 induced liver injury, decreasing (P < 0.05) total protein and albumin concentrations by 33.3-43.8% and increasing (P < 0.05) alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase activities by 26.0-33.8% in serum, and induced hepatic necrosis and bile duct hyperplasia at week 2. AFB1 also decreased (P < 0.05) hepatic activities of glutathione peroxidase (GPX), thioredoxin reductase (TXNRD), and catalase, and the glutathione concentration by 13.1-59.9% and increased (P < 0.05) malondialdehyde, 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine and exo-AFB1-8,9-epoxide (AFBO) DNA concentrations by 17.9-1200%. In addition, the mRNA and activity of enzymes responsible for the bioactivation of AFB1 into AFBO, which included CYP450 A1, 1A2, 2A6, and 3A4, were significantly induced (P < 0.05) by 29.2-271% in liver microsomes after 2-wk exposure to AFB1. These alterations induced by AFB1 were prevented by selenium supplementation. Dietary selenium supplementation increased (P < 0.05) mRNA and/or activities of 6 selenoprotein genes (Gpx3, Txnrd1, Txnrd2, Txnrd3, iodothyronine deiodinase 2, and selenoprotein N) in the liver of AFB1-treated groups at week 2.

CONCLUSIONS

Dietary selenium protected chicks from AFB1-induced liver injury, potentially through the synergistic actions of inhibition of the pivotal CYP450 isozyme-mediated activation of AFB1 to toxic AFBO, and increased antioxidant capacities by upregulation of selenoprotein genes coding for antioxidant proteins.

Protective roles of sodium selenite against aflatoxin B1-induced apoptosis of jejunum in broilers

The effects of aflatoxin B₁ (AFB₁) exposure and sodium selenite supplementation on cell apoptosis of jejunum in broilers were studied. A total of 240 one-day-old male AA broilers were randomly assigned four dietary treatments containing 0 mg/kg of AFB₁ (control), 0.3 mg/kg AFB₁ (AFB₁), 0.4 mg/kg supplement Se (+ Se) and 0.3 mg/kg AFB₁ + 0.4 mg/kg supplement Se (AFB₁ + Se), respectively. Compared with the control broilers, the number of apoptotic cells, the expression of Bax and Caspase-3 mRNA were significantly increased, while the expression of Bcl-2 mRNA and the Bcl-2/Bax ratio were significantly decreased in AFB₁ broilers. The number of apoptotic cells and the expression of Caspase-3 mRNA in AFB₁ + Se broilers were significantly higher than those in the control broilers, but significantly lower than those in AFB₁ broilers. There were no significant changes in the expression of Bax mRNA between AFB₁ + Se and control broilers; the expression of Bcl-2 mRNA and the Bcl-2/Bax ratio in AFB₁ + Se broilers were significantly lower than those in the control broilers, but significantly higher than those in AFB₁ broilers. In conclusion, 0.3 mg/kg AFB₁ in the diet can increase cell apoptosis, decrease Bcl-2 mRNA expression, and increase of Bax and Caspase-3 mRNA expression in broiler’s jejunum. However, supplementation of dietary sodium selenite at the concentration of 0.4 mg/kg Se may ameliorate AFB₁-induced apoptosis by increasing Bcl-2 mRNA expression, and decreasing Bax and Caspase-3 mRNA expression.

Ameliorative effects of thyme and calendula extracts alone or in combination against aflatoxins-induced oxidative stress and genotoxicity in rat liver

The aims of the current work were to evaluate the hepatoprotective effect of calendula flowers and/or thyme leave extracts on aflatoxins (AFs)-induced oxidative stress, genotoxicity and alteration of p53 bax and bcl2 gene expressions. Eighty male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into eight equal groups including: the control group, the group fed AFs-contaminated diet (2.5 mg/kg diet) for 5 weeks, the groups treated orally with thyme and/or calendula extract (0.5 g/kg b.w) for 6 weeks and the groups pretreated orally with thyme and/or calendula extract 1 week before and during AFs treatment for further 5 weeks. Blood, liver and bone marrow samples were collected for biochemical analysis, gene expression, DNA fragmentation and micronucleus assay. The results showed that AFs induced significant alterations in oxidative stress markers, increased serum AFP and inflammatory cytokine, percentage of DNA fragmentation, the expression of pro-apoptotic gene p53 and bax accompanied with a decrease in the expression of bcl2. Animals treated with the extracts 1 week before AFs treatment showed a significant decrease in oxidative damage markers, micronucleated cells, DNA fragmentation and modulation of the expression of pro-apoptotic genes. These results suggested that both calendula and thyme extracts had anti-genotoxic effects due to their higher content of total phenolic compounds.

The antioxidant effects of pumpkin seed oil on subacute aflatoxin poisoning in mice

This study was aimed at the investigation of the antioxidant effect of pumpkin seed oil against the oxidative stress-inducing potential of aflatoxin. For this purpose, 48 male BALB/c mice were used. Four groups, each comprising 12 mice, were established. Group 1 was maintained as the control group. Group 2 was administered with pumpkin seed oil alone at a dose of 1.5 mL/kg.bw/day (∼1375mg/kg.bw/day). Group 3 received aflatoxin (82.45% AFB1 , 10.65% AFB2 , 4.13% AFG1, and 2.77% AFG2 ) alone at a dose of 625 μg/kg.bw/day. Finally, group 4 was given both 1.5 mL/kg.bw/day pumpkin seed oil and 625 μg/kg.bw/day aflatoxin. All administrations were oral, performed with the aid of a gastric tube and continued for a period of 21 days. At the end of day 21, the liver, lungs, kidneys, brain, heart, and spleen of the animals were excised, and the extirpated tissues were homogenized appropriately. Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities were determined in tissue homogenates. In conclusion, it was determined that aflatoxin exhibited adverse effects on most of the oxidative stress markers. The administration of pumpkin seed oil diminished aflatoxin-induced adverse effects. In other words, the values of the group, which was administered with both aflatoxin and pumpkin seed oil, were observed to have drawn closer to the values of the control group.

Protective role of sodium selenite on histopathological lesions, decreased T-cell subsets and increased apoptosis of thymus in broilers intoxicated with aflatoxin B₁

For evaluating the ability of selenium (Se) in counteracting the adverse effects of aflatoxin B₁ (AFB₁), two hundred 1-day-old male Avian broilers, divided into five groups, were fed with basal diet (control group), 0.3 mg/kg AFB₁ (AFB₁ group), 0.3 mg/kg AFB₁+0.2 mg/kg Se (+Se group I), 0.3mg/kg AFB₁+0.4 mg/kg Se (+Se group II) and 0.3mg/kg AFB₁+0.6 mg/kg Se (+Se group III), respectively. Compared with control group, the decreased relative weight of thymus and percentages of mature thymocytes, congestion in medulla and much debris in cortex of thymus, and the increased apoptotic thymocytes were observed in AFB1 group. However, supplied dietary sodium selenite could increase the relative weight of thymus and percentages of mature thymocytes, and alleviate histopathological lesions. Compared with AFB1 group, the percentages of apoptotic thymocytes detected by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end labeling method and flow cytometry method in three +Se groups were decreased, the expression of Caspase-3 and Bax, through quantitative real-time PCR and immunohistochemical method, in three +Se groups were decreased, while the expression of Bcl-2 was increased. The results indicate that sodium selenite supplied in the diet, through a mechanism of apoptosis regulation, may ameliorated AFB₁-induced lesions of thymus and accordingly improve the impaired cellular immune function.

Dietary Supplementation of Calendula officinalis Counteracts the Oxidative Stress and Liver Damage Resulted from Aflatoxin

This study was conducted to evaluate the total phenolic compounds, the antioxidant properties, and the hepatorenoprotective potential of Calendula officinalis extract against aflatoxins (AFs-) induced liver damage. Six groups of male Sprague-Dawley rats were treated for 6 weeks included the control; the group fed AFs-contaminated diet (2.5 mg/kg diet); the groups treated orally with Calendula extract at low (CA1) and high (CA2) doses (500 and 1000 mg/kg b.w); the groups treated orally with CA1 and CA2 one week before and during AFs treatment for other five weeks. The results showed that the ethanol extract contained higher phenolic compounds and posses higher 1,1-diphenyl 1-2-picryl hydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity than the aqueous extract. Animals fed AFs-contaminated diet showed significant disturbances in serum biochemical parameters, inflammatory cytokines, and the histological and histochemical pictures of the liver accompanied by a significant increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) and a significant decrease in superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) in liver. Calendula extract succeeded to improve the biochemical parameters, inflammatory cytokines, decreased the oxidative stress, and improved the histological pictures in the liver of rats fed AFs-contaminated diet in a dose-dependent manner. It could be concluded that Calendula extract has potential hepatoprotective effects against AFs due to its antioxidant properties and radical scavenging activity.