Protective effect of royal jelly against diclofenac-induced hepato-renal damage and gastrointestinal ulcerations in rats

Research progress on rat model of drug-induced liver injury established by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (celecoxib) and royal jelly ameliorative effect

OBJECTIVES

NSAIDs, like celecoxib, are widely used to treat pain, fever, and inflammation, with celecoxib being particularly effective in managing arthritis symptoms and acute or chronic pain especially with its favorable gastrointestinal tolerability. The study aimed at exploring the effect of chronic administration of celecoxib on hepatic tissues in male albino rats. It also examined the royal jelly celecoxib interplay.

METHODS

50 male albino rats in 5 equal groups; Group 1: received no drug. Group 2: received celecoxib (50 mg/kg/day, orally), for 30 successive days. Group 3: received celecoxib plus royal jelly (300 mg/kg/day, orally) for 30 successive days. Group 4: received celecoxib, for 30 days, then were left untreated for another 30 days. Group 5: received celecoxib plus royal jelly for 30 days, then were left untreated for another 30 days.

RESULTS

Chronic celecoxib administration caused hepatotoxicity in male albino rats, with ameliorative effect of royal jelly. Celecoxib discontinuation significantly diminished the celecoxib-induced toxicity, and normal liver enzymes and serum protein levels were regained in the case of dual medications (celecoxib+RJ) discontinuation.

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term celecoxib administration caused hepatotoxicity, with ameliorative effects of royal jelly against celecoxib-induced oxidative and apoptotic stress. In addition, it could be concluded that royal jelly may prove a useful adjunct in patients being prescribed celecoxib.

Cardioprotective role of royal jelly in the prevention of celecoxib-mediated cardiotoxicity in adult male albino rats

BACKGROUND

Celecoxib, a cyclooxygenase-2 selective inhibitor non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, is used for the management of short- and long-term pain as well as in other inflammatory conditions. Unfortunately, its chronic use is highly associated with serious abnormal cardiovascular events. The current study was designed to explore the effect of long-term administration of celecoxib on the cardiac tissues of male albino rats. The study also examined the alleged cardioprotective effect of royal jelly.

METHODS

Thirty, male albino rats were randomly divided into 3 equal groups; 10 each: (1) rats served as the control group and received no drug; (2) rats received celecoxib (50 mg/kg/day, orally), for 30 consecutive days; (3) rats received celecoxib (50 mg/kg/day, orally) plus royal jelly (300 mg/kg/day, orally) for 30 consecutive days. Sera were collected to assay cardiac enzymes and oxidant/antioxidant status. Rats were euthanatized and cardiac tissues were dissected for quantitative estimation of apoptotic genes (Bax) and anti-apoptotic gene (Bcl-2).

RESULTS

Long-term celecoxib administration caused cardiotoxicity in male albino rats as manifested by significant elevation of serum levels of creatine phosphokinase (CPK), creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), with ameliorative effects of royal jelly against celecoxib-induced cardiotoxicity as manifested by significantly decrease in serum CPK, CK-MB, and LDH levels. It also showed a significant decrease in the oxidative stress indicator malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and the bax gene. Additionally, it demonstrated significant increases in the bcl-2 gene and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels, which contribute to its therapeutic effects against celecoxib-induced cardiotoxicity.

CONCLUSION

Long-term celecoxib administration caused cardiotoxicity in male albino rats with protective effect of royal jelly being given together. It could be concluded that royal jelly may prove a useful adjunct in patients being prescribed celecoxib.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Not applicable.

Royal Jelly, A Super Food, Protects Against Celecoxib-Induced Renal Toxicity in Adult Male Albino Rats

Background

Celecoxib is a COX-2 nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It is widely used for the treatment of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis.

Objective

This study aimed to explore the effect of long-term administration of celecoxib on kidney of male albino rats, and to study the potential effect of treatment discontinuation on such tissues. The study also examined the alleged ameliorative effect of royal jelly (RJ).

Methods

Fifty, male albino rats were divided into 5 equal groups; 10 each. Group 1: rats received no drug (control group). Group 2: rats received celecoxib (50 mg/kg/day, orally for 30 successive days). Group 3: rats received celecoxib (50 mg/kg/day, orally) and royal jelly (300 mg/kg/day, orally) for 30 successive days. Group 4: rats received celecoxib for 30 successive days, then rats were left untreated for another 30 days. Group 5: rats received celecoxib and RJ for 30 successive days, then rats were left untreated for another 30 days.

Results

Long-term celecoxib administration caused significant elevation in kidney function tests, with ameliorative effects of RJ against celecoxib-induced renal toxicity.

Conclusion

Long-term celecoxib administration caused renal toxicity in male albino rats, with ameliorative effects of RJ.

Mandarin peel ethanolic extract attenuates diclofenac sodium induced hepatorenal toxicity in rats by mitigating oxidative stress and inflammation

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) constitute approximately one-third of the global pharmaceutical market and are the first drugs of choice when treating fever and pain. Furthermore, among NSAIDs, the use of diclofenac sodium (DS) is preferred as it is a strong inhibitor of cyclooxygenase enzyme. However, despite its strong efficacy, DS is known for its potential to cause hepatorenal damage. Currently, to mitigate the adverse effects of certain drugs, medically effective agricultural products are often preferred as they are inexpensive, effective and safe. One such agricultural product-mandarin-is noteworthy for its high phenolic contents. The purpose of the present study was to assess the efficacy of mandarin peel ethanolic extract (MPEE) in protecting against hepatorenal damage induced by DS. Four groups (six/group) of adult male albino rats received oral administration of physiological saline (control group), DS (10 mg/kg body weight), MPEE (200 mg/kg body weight), and DS + MPEE for 7 days. Rats in the DS group showed increased serum levels of ALT, AST, ALP, BUN, CRE, and UA. Furthermore, the hepatic and renal tissue levels of MDA, TNF-α and IL-1β increased, whereas those of GSH, SOD, GP-x and IL-10 decreased (p < 0.05). Investigation of MPEE in terms of its effects on biochemical, oxidative and inflammatory parameters, it exerted protective and healing effects. Therefore, MPEE can be used to ameliorate DS-induced hepatorenal damage.

Pylorus ligation-induced hyperacidity: synergistic prophylactic effects of linagliptin and L-arginine via up-regulation of EP4 receptor subtype and improvement of vascular endothelial damage

Gastric hyperacidity and ulceration are chronic diseases characterized by repeated healing followed by re-exacerbation. The study aims to protect against gastric hyperacidity without interfering with gastric acid secretion. Pylorus ligation-induced hyperacidity is commonly utilized in the induction of gastric ulcers.Forty-two rats were distributed into seven groups (n = 6). Group I comprised sham-operated group. Group II served as pylorus-ligation group. Groups III-VII were given oral Linagliptin (LN; 3 and 6 mg/kg), L-arginine (LA; 150 and 300 mg/kg) and their combination (LN 3 + LA 150 mg/kg), respectively for 7 days. On the 8th day, groups II-VII were subjected to pylorus-ligation.Treatment of pylorus-ligated rats with LN, LA and their combination improved the gastric hyperacidity as exhibited by a marked reduction in the gastric juice volume, total and free acidities and pepsin contents with a noticeable increase in pH. Pre-treatment with LN, LA and their combination showed a marked alleviation in the gastric inflammatory indicators evidenced by reduction in the gastric levels of MCP-1and Il-1β as well as elevation of eNOS levels versus the sham-operated group. A marked up-regulation in the gastric gene expression of PGE, EP4 and VEGF accompanied by an improvement of the histopathologic pictures/scores, and TNF-α and caspase-3 immuno-staining were also recorded.By estimating the combination-index, it can be concluded that combining LN with LA exhibited prophylactic synergistic effects in ameliorating pylorus ligated-induced hyperacidity, mainly via up-regulation of EP4 receptor and improvement of vascular endothelial damage through VEGF expression in gastric mucosa.

Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of Royal Jelly in Metabolic Disorders and Gastrointestinal Diseases

Metabolic disorders, encompassing diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular diseases, gastrointestinal disorders, etc., pose a substantial global health threat, with rising morbidity and mortality rates. Addressing these disorders is crucial, as conventional drugs often come with high costs and adverse effects. This review explores the potential of royal jelly (RJ), a natural bee product rich in bioactive components, as an alternative strategy for managing metabolic diseases. RJ exhibits diverse therapeutic properties, including antimicrobial, estrogen-like, anti-inflammatory, hypotensive, anticancer, and antioxidant effects. This review's focus is on investigating how RJ and its components impact conditions like diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, and gastrointestinal illnesses. Evidence suggests that RJ serves as a complementary treatment for various health issues, notably demonstrating cholesterol- and glucose-lowering effects in diabetic rats. Specific RJ-derived metabolites, such as 10-hydroxy-2-decenoic acid (10-HDA), also known as the "Queen bee acid," show promise in reducing insulin resistance and hyperglycemia. Recent research highlights RJ's role in modulating immune responses, enhancing anti-inflammatory cytokines, and suppressing key inflammatory mediators. Despite these promising findings, further research is needed to comprehensively understand the mechanisms underlying RJ's therapeutic effects.

Network Pharmacology Prediction and Experimental Validation of Ferulic Acid’s Protective Effects against Diclofenac‐Induced Liver Injury

Despite being one of the most consumed analgesics worldwide, liver injury is an adverse effect of diclofenac (DF). In pursuit of reliable hepatoprotective natural remedies, this study aimed to investigate the potential protective effect of ferulic acid (FA) and its mechanism against DF‐induced liver injury. Various network databases and datasets were used to collect targets corresponding to FA and DF‐induced liver injury. Enrichment analyses of common targets were performed, a protein‐protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed, the hub genes were identified, and the upstream miRNA interacting with the top hub gene was later predicted. A DF‐induced liver injury rat model was established to verify FA’s protective effects, and the selected hub gene expression level with its upstream regulatory miRNA and a downstream set of targets was examined to elucidate the underlying mechanism. A total of 18 genes were identified as potential targets of FA to protect against DF‐induced liver injury. Data from the enrichment and PPI analyses and the prediction of the upstream miRNAs indicated that the most worthwhile pair to study was miR‐296‐5p/Jun. In vivo findings showed that coadministration of FA significantly reduced the DF‐induced alterations in the liver function indices, oxidative stress, and liver histology. Mechanistically, FA downregulated the expression of Jun, Bim, Bax, Casp3, IL‐1β, IL‐6, and TNF‐α, whereas it upregulated the expression of rno‐miR‐296‐5p and Bcl2. In conclusion, combining network pharmacology and an in vivo study revealed that miR‐296‐5p/Jun axis could mediate the mitigative effect of FA against DF‐induced liver injury.

Targeting NF-κB/COX-2 signaling by soyasaponin I alleviates diclofenac-induced gastric ulceration in male albino rats

Gastric ulceration is a prevalent worldwide clinical presentation due to altered gastric defense mechanisms. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are one of the common causes of gastric ulcers mediated by the release of inflammatory mediators. The study aimed to investigate the potential protective effect of soyasaponin I (soya) against diclofenac (DIC)-induced gastric ulcer in rats and to highlight the underlying mechanisms. The experiment was conducted on 40 male Wistar albino rats, equally distributed into five groups: control, DIC-induced ulcer (9 mg/kg/d, orally, twice daily for 3 days), ulcer/soya-, ulcer/ranitidine-, and ulcer/soya/selective nuclear factor kappa B inhibitor (JSH-23)-treated groups. The doses of soya, ranitidine, and JSH were 20, 25, and 5 mg/kg/d, respectively, given orally. Gastric specimens were prepared for gene and histological study and for biochemical analysis of gastric prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), oxidative markers, and inflammatory cytokines. The gastric samples were formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded, and subjected to hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), PAS staining, and immunohistochemical assay for identification of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and proliferation marker (Ki67) expressions. The findings revealed decreased gastric PGE2 and altered inflammatory and oxidative markers in the ulcer model group. The H&E staining showed mucosal injury characterized by mucosal surface defects and inflammatory cell infiltrations. The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and immunohistochemistry demonstrated an upregulation of NF-κB and COX-2 expression at gene/protein levels; meanwhile, Ki67 downregulation. The soya-treated group showed maintained biochemical, histological, and PCR findings comparable to the ranitidine-treated group. The JSH-23-treated group still showed partial gastric protection with biochemical and immunohistochemical changes. Soyasaponin I ameliorated DIC-induced gastric ulcers by targeting the COX-2 activity through modulation of NF-κB signaling.

Protective effects of royal jelly and Echinacea against moxifloxacin-induced renal and hepatic injury in rats

Antibiotic use, especially fluoroquinolones, has been linked to extensive renal and hepatic injury thus inflicts a considerable health problem. Fifty rats were allocated into five groups (n = 10). Group 1 represented the normal-control group. Group 2 received moxifloxacin only (MOX; 8 mg/kg/day, i.p.) for seven days and represented the MOX-control group. Groups 3, 4, and 5 received MOX for seven days accompanied by royal jelly (RJ; 100 mg/kg/day, p.o.), Echinacea (ECH; 40 mg/kg/day, p.o.), and a combination of both at the aforementioned doses respectively for 30 days. All groups were investigated for renal and hepatic function tests. Renal tissue content of kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1) along with renal and hepatic tissue contents of reduced glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were assessed for all groups. Histopathological examination was performed followed by immunohistochemical staining for caspase-3 in renal and hepatic tissues. MOX administration resulted in significant renal and hepatic damage. RJ and ECH significantly improved the serum parameters of renal and hepatic functions along with increasing GSH and decreasing MDA in renal and hepatic tissues. Renal contents of KIM-1 were also reduced. Moreover, RJ, ECH, and their combination amended MOX-induced histopathological changes and significantly reduced caspase-3 immunohistochemical staining in both renal and hepatic tissues. The current study is the first to elucidate the effect of RJ, ECH, and their combination against MOX-induced renal and hepatic injury in rats. The study suggests that these protective effects are mainly via the reduction of oxidative stress induced by MOX administration.

Tubuloside A, a phenylethanoid glycoside, alleviates diclofenac induced hepato-nephro oxidative injury via Nrf2/HO-1

The most prominent adverse effects of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as diclofenac (DF) are hepato-renal damage. Natural antioxidants can be preferred as an alternative and/or combination to improve this damage. This present study was conducted to evaluate the protective effect of Tubuloside A (TA) against diclofenac (DF)-induced hepato-renal damage. TA (1 mg/kg, ip) was administered to male Sprague-Dawley rats for 5 days, and DF (50 mg/kg, ip) was administered on Days 4 and 5. Plasma aspartate amino transferase, alanine amino transferase, alkaline phosphatase, blood urea nitrogen and creatinine were measured to evaluate liver and kidney functions. Additionally, oxidative stress parameters (malondialdehyde, glutathione, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-2'-deoxyguanosine) in blood, liver, and kidney tissues, changes in mRNA expression of genes involved in the Nrf2/HO-1 signalling pathway (Nrf2, HO-1, NQO-1, IL-6, iNOS, Cox-2, TNF-α, IL1-β and NFκB) and apoptotic process (Bcl-2, Cas-3 and Bax) in liver and kidney tissues were determined. Additionally, tissue sections were evaluated histopathologically. Biochemical, histopathological, and molecular results demonstrated the hepato-renal toxic effects of DF, and TA treatment protected the liver and kidney from DF-induced damage. This provides an explanation for the hepato-nephro damage caused by DF and offers new ideas and drug targets together with TA for the prevention and treatment of DF injury.

Hepatoprotective and nephroprotective effects of Tessaria integrifolia Ruiz and Pav. on diclofenac-induced toxicity in rats

Background and Aim

Tessaria integrifolia Ruiz and Pav. (also known as "Pájaro bobo") is known for its medicinal properties, including antiulcer, antiasthmatic, leishmanicidal, antipyretic, antispasmodic, diuretic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and hepatoprotective effects. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate its hepatoprotective and nephroprotective effects using a rat model of diclofenac-induced toxicity.

Materials and Methods

We administered three different doses of the methanolic extract of T. integrifolia (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg/day orally) and compared them with the commercial medicine silymarin (100 mg/kg orally). The rats received the T. integrifolia extracts for 5 days, and on days 3 and 4, 1 h after receiving the extracts, diclofenac was administered intraperitoneally at a dose of 50 mg/kg. The animals were euthanized 48 h after the last diclofenac injection, and blood samples were obtained to measure biochemical parameters related to liver and kidney function, such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), bilirubin, cholesterol, triglycerides, creatinine, and urea. Kidney and liver tissues were preserved in 10% formaldehyde and sent for histopathological analysis.

Results

The results show that T. integrifolia has hepatoprotective and nephroprotective effects. These effects are verified by the lower blood levels of ALT, AST, urea, and creatinine compared to the diclofenac group, which exhibited elevated biochemical parameters. In addition, histopathological analysis showed that the groups that received T. integrifolia did not display necrosis or infiltration, which were observed in the diclofenac group.

Conclusion

The methanolic extract of T. integrifolia has hepatoprotective and nephroprotective effects, with the highest protective activity observed at a dose of 400 mg/kg/day.

Royal jelly: a predictive, preventive and personalised strategy for novel treatment options in non-communicable diseases

Royal jelly (RJ) is a bee product produced by young adult worker bees, composed of water, proteins, carbohydrates and lipids, rich in bioactive components with therapeutic properties, such as free fatty acids, mainly 10-hydroxy-trans-2-decenoic acid (10-H2DA) and 10-hydroxydecanoic acid (10-HDA), and major royal jelly proteins (MRJPs), as well as flavonoids, most flavones and flavonols, hormones, vitamins and minerals. In vitro, non-clinical and clinical studies have confirmed its vital role as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. This narrative review discusses the possible effects of royal jelly on preventing common complications of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as inflammation, oxidative stress and intestinal dysbiosis, from the viewpoint of predictive, preventive and personalised medicine (PPPM/3PM). It is concluded that RJ, predictively, can be used as a non-pharmacological therapy to prevent and mitigate complications related to NCDs, and the treatment must be personalised.

Spirulina (Arthrospira maxima) mitigates the toxicity induced by a mixture of metal and NSAID in Xenopus laevis

Cadmium (Cd) is often detected in the environment due to its wide use in industry; also, NSAIDs are one of the most consumed pharmaceuticals, particularly diclofenac (DCF). Several studies have reported the presence of both contaminants in water bodies at concentrations ranging from ng L-1 to μg L-1; in addition, they have shown that they can induce oxidative stress in aquatic species and disturb signal transduction, cell proliferation, and intercellular communication, which could lead to teratogenesis. Spirulina has been consumed as a dietary supplement; its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and nutritional properties are well documented. This work aimed to evaluate if Spirulina reduces the damage induced by Cd and DCF mixture in Xenopus laevis at early life stages. FETAX assay was carried out: 20 fertilized oocytes were exposed to seven different treatments on triplicate, control, Cd (24.5 μg L-1), DCF (149 μg L-1), Cd + DCF, Cd+DCF+Spirulina (2 mg L-1), Cd+DCF+Spirulina (4 mg L-1), Cd+DCF+Spirulina (10 mg L-1), malformations, mortality, and growth were evaluated after 96 h, also lipid peroxidation, superoxide dismutase and catalase activity were determined after 192 h. Cd increased DCF mortality, Cd and DCF mixture increased the incidence of malformations as well as oxidative damage; on the other hand, the results obtained show that Spirulina can be used to reduce the damage caused by the mixture of Cd and DCF since it promotes growth, reduce mortality, malformations, and oxidative stress in X. laevis.

CYP24A1 and CYP3A4 Levels, Renal, Hepatic Changes, and Incidence of Oxidative Stress in Tramadol-Alcohol Concomitant Misuse

Introduction Long-term population-based research has demonstrated a link between heavy drinking and the prevalence of kidney disorders; similarly, alcohol abuse has long been recognized as one of the main causes of liver diseases. A recent trend of concomitant use of the opioid analgesic Tramadol and alcohol among young males in sub-Saharan Africa has emerged. Aim and objectives This study's primary aim was to evaluate the incidence of concomitant use of alcohol and Tramadol among adult males, and observe the role of cytochrome p450 3A4 and CYP24A1 proteins and some oxidative stress indicators such as Malondialdehyde, lactate dehydrogenase, among study participants. The secondary aim was to evaluate the effect of alcohol and Tramadol concomitant use on Liver and kidney indices. Methods Our study population was male subjects with a history of Alcohol and Tramadol concomitant use. Liver enzymes, renal indices, oxidative stress markers, and CYP3A4 and CYP24A1 were determined from the serum of test and control participants. IBM Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) Statistics (version 21.0) was used to analyze the data obtained. Result One hundred and forty-two male subjects were included in this study. Eighty two (82) were males who admitted to abuse of Alcohol and Tramadol concomitantly for at least a year. The dose of Tramadol commonly used by Test subjects was 200 mg (43.9% of the test population), Tramadol users in the study population were largely Undergraduates (75.6% of Test participants). Gamma-glutamyl transferase and lactate dehydrogenase were significantly higher in Test subjects consuming Tramadol and alcohol combination (43.13±1.02 and 117.29±2.45, respectively) versus control (24.87±0.82; p=0.00 and 101.93±1.25; p=0.00). There was a significant decrease in serum bicarbonate levels of Test subjects (16.19±0.53) versus control (22.60±0.68; p=0.000). Cytochrome P450 24A1, was significantly lower in Test subjects (subjects consuming Tramadol and alcohol combination) (0.90±0.06; p=0.01), and significantly threefold higher in subjects with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) (5.16±0.5; p=0.00), when compared with values of non-drug/alcohol users that served as normal control (1.27±0.07). Conclusion The menace of Tramadol and alcohol concomitant abuse has taken a worrisome dimension in sub-Saharan Africa. In this study 77.4% of participants reported euphoria as reason for combining Alcohol and Tramadol, 6.5% claimed it was for faster pain relief and enhanced sexual performance or prolong penile erection was the response of 58.1% of the test participants. Findings of reduced CYP3A4 with Alcohol and Tramadol concomitant use could be associated with delayed drug inactivation and increased drug euphoric action.

Royal Jelly and Chlorella vulgaris Mitigate Gibberellic Acid-Induced Cytogenotoxicity and Hepatotoxicity in Rats via Modulation of the PPARα/AP-1 Signaling Pathway and Suppression of Oxidative Stress and Inflammation

Gibberellic acid (GA3) is a well-known plant growth regulator used in several countries, but its widespread use has negative effects on both animal and human health. The current study assesses the protective effect of royal jelly (RJ) and Chlorella vulgaris (CV) on the genotoxicity and hepatic injury induced by GA3 in rats. Daily oral administration of 55 mg/kg GA3 to rats for 6 constitutive weeks induced biochemical and histopathological changes in the liver via oxidative stress and inflammation. Co-administration of 300 mg/kg RJ or 500 mg/kg CV with GA3 considerably ameliorated the serum levels of AST (aspartate aminotransferase), ALT (alanine aminotransferase), ALP (alkaline phosphatase), γGT (gamma-glutamyl transferase), total bilirubin, and albumin. Lowered malondialdehyde, tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), and nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) levels along with elevated SOD (superoxide dismutase), CAT (catalase), and GPx (glutathione peroxidase) enzyme activities indicated the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of both RJ and CV. Also, they improved the histological structure and reduced cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expressions along with up-regulating peroxisome proliferator activated receptor α (PPARα) and down-regulating activator protein 1 (AP-1) gene expression. Additionally, chromosomal abnormalities and mitotic index were nearly normalized after treatment with RJ and CV. In conclusion, RJ and CV can protect against GA3-induced genotoxicity and liver toxicity by diminishing oxidative stress and inflammation, and modulating the PPARα/AP-1 signaling pathway.

Royal jelly arranges apoptotic and oxidative stress pathways and reduces damage to liver tissues of rats by down-regulation of Bcl-2, GSK3 and NF-κB and up-regulation of caspase and Nrf-2 protein signalling pathways

IntroductionRoyal jelly (RJ) from the honey bee, Apis mellifera, is a traditional product that is widely used as a food supplement to support the medical treatment of various diseases.Material and methodsOur study continued for 8 weeks. 42 Wistar albino (8 weeks old) male rats were used in the study. The study included 6 groups; Group 1: Control group (fed with standard diet), Group 2: RJ (100 mg/kg, bw), Group 3: F-50 (50 mg/kg, bw), group 4: F-100 (100 mg/kg, bw) group 5: F-50 (50 mg/kg, bw) + RJ (100 mg/kg, bw) Group 6: F-100 (100 mg/kg, bw) + RJ (100 mg/kg, bw). Malondialdehyde (MDA), catalase (CAT) and glutathione (GSH) activities in liver tissue were determined by spectrophotometer. Liver tissue samples were examined histopathologically and various protein levels were determined by Western blotting technique.ResultsRJ caused a significant decrease in MDA level, Bcl-2, GSK3 and NF-κB protein expression levels, whereas induced a significant increase in GSH level, CAT activities and Bax, BDNF, caspase-6, caspase-3, Nrf-2 protein expression levels.ConclusionOur findings suggest RJ to be used as a hepatoprotective agent in the clinic to modulate the toxic effects of fluoride and other chemicals in the future.

Enhancement of the Antioxidant Capacity of Thyme and Chestnut Honey by Addition of Bee Products

Honey consumption and imports have increased in recent years, and it is considered by consumers to be a healthy alternative to more commonly used sweeteners. Honey contains a mixture of polyphenols and antioxidant compounds, and the botanical origin and geographical area of collection play an important role on its chemical composition. The present study investigated the physicochemical properties, total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity of Spanish thyme honey and chestnut honey, and their mixtures with royal jelly (2% and 10%) and propolis (2% and 10%). The analysis of the physicochemical parameters of both honey samples showed values within the established limits. Propolis showed the highest value of total phenolic content (17.21–266.83 mg GAE/100 g) and antioxidant capacity (DPPH, ORAC and ABTS assays; 0.63–24.10 µg eq. Tx/g, 1.61–40.82 µg eq. Tx/g and 1.89–68.54 µg eq. Tx/g, respectively), and significantly reduced ROS production in human hepatoma cells. In addition, mixtures of honey with 10% of propolis improved the results obtained with natural honey, increasing the value of total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity. A significant positive correlation was observed between total phenolic compounds and antioxidant capacity. Therefore, the antioxidant capacity could be attributed to the phenolic compounds present in the samples, at least partially. In conclusion, our results indicated that thyme and chestnut honey supplemented with propolis can be an excellent natural source of antioxidants and could be incorporated as a potential food ingredient with biological properties of technological interest, added as a preservative. Moreover, these mixtures could be used as natural sweeteners enriched in antioxidants and other bioactive compounds.

Protective effect of royal jelly on fluoride-induced nephrotoxicity in rats via the some protein biomarkers signaling pathways: A new approach for kidney damage

Introduction: Protective effect of royal jelly (RJ) on fluoride-induced nephrotoxicity was investigated in this study.Methods: 42 healthy male Wistar rats (n = 42, 8 weeks of age) were divided equally into 6 groups with 7 rats in each; (1) Group-1: Controls fed with standard diet; (2) Group-2: RJ [100 mg/kg] bw (body weight), by oral gavage; (3) Group-3: Fluoride [50 mg/kg] bw, in drinking water; (4) Group-4: Fluoride [100 mg/kg] bw, in drinking water; (5) Group-5: RJ [100 mg/kg] bw, by oral gavage + Fluoride [50 mg/kg] bw, in drinking water; (6) Group-6: RJ [100 mg/kg] bw, by oral gavage + Fluoride [100 mg/kg] bw, in drinking water. After 8 weeks, all rats were decapitated and their kidney tissues were removed for further analysis. The protein expression levels of caspase-3, caspase-6, caspase-9, Bcl-2, Bax, VEGF, GSK-3, BDNF, COX-2 and TNF-α proteins in kidney tissue were analysed by western blotting techniqueResults: RJ increased Bcl-2, COX-2, GSK-3, TNF-α and VEGF protein levels and a decreased caspase-3, caspase -6, caspase-9, Bax and BDNF protein levels in fluoride-treated rats.Conclusion: RJ application may have a promising therapeutical potential in the treatment of many diseases in the future by reducing kidney damage.

Quercetin exerts an ameliorative effect in the rat model of diclofenac-induced renal injury through mitigation of inflammatory response and modulation of oxidative stress

Diclofenac (DIC) is administrated to treat pain, inflammatory disorders, and dysmenorrhea but kidney problems are the main worries of the agent. The literature has revealed that quercetin (QR) has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant attributes. This study aims to highlight the possible nephroprotective effects of QR on DIC-exposed rats.

In this study, the animals after exposure to DIC (50 mg/kg, i.p) were administrated to QR (100 mg/kg, p.o). Then, the levels, as well as the activity of several oxidant and anti-oxidant mediators, were evaluated.

Our results showed that DIC treatment was coupled with the elevation in the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), and some pro-inflammatory factors such as TNF-α, NF-κB, and IL-1β, suggesting that probably this agent exert its toxicity in the kidney tissue through inducing both oxidative stress and inflammation. Interestingly, QR was successful in restoring the activity of antioxidant compounds such as GSH, GPx, SOD, and CAT in the kidney tissue of DIC-treated rats. Moreover, in the presence of QR, DIC was unable to increase the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, suggesting that perhaps QR might have anti-inflammatory properties. In agreement with this, the results of the histopathological evaluation also showed that while DIC increased the lymphocyte infiltration into the kidney tissue, QR reduced the number of lymphocytes in DIC-treated rats.

The results revealed that QR exerted a supportive effect against diclofenac-induced renal injury in male rats through modulation of oxidative stress and mitigation of inflammatory response.

Involvement of NOX-4/JAK/STAT pathway in the protective effect of aprepitant against diclofenac-induced renal toxicity

AIMS

Aprepitant, a neurokinin-1 (NK1) receptor antagonist, is a clinically approved anti-emetic drug. Recently, inhibition of the NK1 receptor has been reported as a potential nephroprotective strategy. We aimed to assess the pharmacological mechanisms of aprepitant against diclofenac (DIC)-induced renal toxicity.

MAIN METHODS

An in vivo study was conducted using twenty-four male Wistar rats, divided into 4 groups. Aprepitant was administered for 5 days (5 mg/kg/day) with or without DIC which was given on the 4th and 5th days (50 mg/kg, i.p.). At the end of the study, renal function biomarkers, renal oxidative parameters, prostaglandin E (PGE-2), and NADPH oxidase (NOX-4) were measured. Histopathological changes as well as expression of renal inflammatory and apoptotic markers (tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and caspase-3) were investigated.

KEY FINDINGS

DIC caused significant renal damage, as evidenced by deterioration of renal functions, oxidative stress, inflammatory and apoptotic markers, and confirmed by histopathological findings. Pretreatment with aprepitant successfully ameliorated and improved all biochemical and molecular parameters induced by DIC. Moreover, aprepitant restored the decrease in renal PGE-2 concentration and inhibited DIC-activated Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) signaling in renal tissues.

SIGNIFICANCE

The protective effect of aprepitant is possibly attributed to its anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory roles via the NOX-4/JAK/STAT pathway.

Amelioration of the hepatotoxic effects of nonsteroidal drugs using vitamin C and determination of their relationship with the lipid profile

Objective

Despite the various clinical benefits of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, their frequent and prolonged use has led to numerous health risks, including hepatotoxicity. Hepatotoxicity mediated by oxidative stress can affect the lipid profile. The objective was to investigate whether post-treatment with vitamin C can ameliorate the effects of diclofenac and naproxen in the livers of prepubertal rats and to highlight their relationship with lipid profile.

Methods

Forty prepubertal female albino rats were distributed among the control group, the diclofenac-administered group (5 mg/kg/day), and the naproxen-administered group (50 mg/kg/day). This study included two phases. In Phase 1, only five rats from each group were dissected after 21 days of oral administration to assess the hepatotoxic effects of nonsteroidal drugs. In Phase 2, five of the remaining animals in each intervention group were post-treated with 25 mg/kg/day of vitamin C for an additional 21 days. After the administration and post-treatment, serum biochemical parameters and histopathological signs were evaluated.

Results

Extreme elevation in the levels of aspartate and alanine aminotransferases was observed in the diclofenac and naproxen groups compared with those in the control (p < 0.001). In addition, the levels of high- and low-density lipoproteins were significantly impacted in these drug groups (p < 0.01, p < 0.05 respectively). Several pathological signs in the liver histology were observed in both drug groups. After post-treatment with vitamin C, noticeable amelioration of these alterations was observed. There were slightly elevation in the liver enzymes and insignificant increase and decrease in the high and low-density lipoproteins respectively.

Conclusion

Vitamin C post-treatment ameliorated the hepatotoxicity induced by diclofenac sodium and naproxen.

Carvacrol exerts nephroprotective effect in rat model of diclofenac-induced renal injury through regulation of oxidative stress and suppression of inflammatory response

Diclofenac (DIC) is an NSAID that can cause toxic effects in animals and humans and carvacrol (CAR) is a monoterpene compound that displays effective pharmacological and biological actions. The purpose of this work was to assess the influences of CAR on DIC-induced renal injury and oxidative stress in male rats. The rats were segregated into four groups. Group 1, control group; Group 2 received DIC-only; Groups 3, received CAR-only and group 4 received DIC plus CAR. Changes in biochemical indexes, pathological changes, molecular biological indexes, and genes related to the inflammation of main organs were evaluated. The results of this work indicated that the amounts of the serum protein carbonyl, sGOT, sGPT, urea, creatinine, uric acid, nitrite content, MDA, serum TNF-α, and renal TNF-α gene expression were remarkably increased and the levels of the GPx, GSH, CAT, and SOD were significantly reduced in DIC-only treated animals compared to the control group. On the other hand, treatment with CAR after exposure to DIC led to significant improvements in abnormalities of DIC-induced renal injury and serum biochemical factors. The data approve that CAR diminished the deleterious effects of DIC exposure. In this regard, the findings of this study indicated that the administration of CAR could alleviate the noxious effects of DIC on the antioxidant defense system and renal tissue.

A role of connexin 43 on the drug-induced liver, kidney, and gastrointestinal tract toxicity with associated signaling pathways

Drug-induced organ toxicity/injury, especially in the liver, kidney, and gastrointestinal tract, is a systematic disorder that causes oxidative stress formation and inflammation resulting in cell death and organ failure. Current therapies target reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging and inhibit inflammatory factors in organ injury to restore the functions and temporary relief. Organ cell function and tissue homeostasis are maintained through gap junction intercellular communication, regulating connexin hemichannels. Mis-regulation of such connexin, especially connexin (Cx) 43, affects a comprehensive process, including cell differentiation, inflammation, and cell death. Aim to describe knowledge about the importance of connexin role and insights therapeutic targeting. Cx43 misregulation has been implicated in recent decades in various diseases. Moreover, in recent years there is increasing evidence that Cx43 is involved in the toxicity process, including hepatic, renal, and gastrointestinal disorders. Cx43 has the potential to initiate the immune system to cause cell death, which has been activated in the acceleration of apoptosis, necroptosis, and autophagy signaling pathway. So far, therapies targeting Cx43 have been under inspection and are subjected to clinical trial phases. This review elucidates the role of Cx43 in drug-induced vital organ injury, and recent reports compromise its function in the major signaling pathways.

Ameliorative activity of aqueous leaf extract from Madhuca longifolia against diclofenac-administered toxicity on rat stomach and intestine

Madhuca longifolia, a tropical tree used as medicine and food, is known to have a beneficial effect against stomach gastric toxicity. Madhuca longifolia is used in treating cough, skin disease and nerve disorders. Diclofenac, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), with overdosage and prolonged use, is known to cause gastric toxicity. Silymarin (SLY), a polyphenolic antioxidant flavonoid, is a derivative of Silybum marianum extracted from milk thistle seeds and fruits, has been widely used in the treatment of gastric ulcer. SLY was used as the standard drug to compare the effects with the Madhuca longifolia aqueous leaf extract treatment. The aim of the current study is to understand the effect of Madhuca longifolia aq. leaf extract on rat stomach and intestine against diclofenac-administered toxicity. Rats (n = 30) were divided into Group I normal control, Group II treated with diclofenac, Group III treated with diclofenac and Madhuca longifolia leaf extract, Group IV treated with diclofenac and silymarin, and Group V was treated with Madhuca longifolia leaf extract alone. After the study duration, rats were euthanized and tissue samples were analyzed for antioxidant, cytokine, protein expression levels and histopathological changes. Diclofenac treated rats had significant (p < 0.05) changes in levels of antioxidants, cytokines, protein expression and pathological changes as compared to rats treated with Madhuca longifolia. This study demonstrated that Madhuca longifolia leaf extract had gastroprotective activity in rats treated with diclofenac.

Health Promoting Properties of Bee Royal Jelly: Food of the Queens

Royal jelly (RJ) demand is growing every year and so is the market for functional foods in general. RJ is formed by different substances, mainly carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids, but also vitamins, minerals, and phenolic or volatile compounds in lower proportion. Major royal jelly proteins (MRJP) are, together with 10-hydroxy-2-decenoic acid (10-HDA), key substances of RJ due to their different biological properties. In particular, 10-HDA is a unique substance in this product. RJ has been historically employed as health enhancer and is still very relevant in China due to the traditional medicine and the apitherapy. Nowadays, it is mainly consumed as a functional food or is found in supplements and other formulations for its health-beneficial properties. Within these properites, anti-lipidemic, antioxidant, antiproliferative, antimicrobial, neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antiaging, and estrogenic activities have been reported for RJ or its specific components. This manuscript is aimed at reviewing the current knowledge on RJ components, their assessment in terms of authenticity, their biological activities, and related health applications.

Royal Jelly and Aliskiren mutually annul their protective effects against gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats

Background and Aim

Gentamicin (GM) is one of the most effective antibiotics for severe, life-threatening Gram-negative infections. Nevertheless, its clinical use has been restrained because of its nephrotoxic potential. Royal jelly (RJ) and aliskiren (ALK) can individually prevent such toxic effects. The aim of this study was to explore the protective effects of a combination treatment of RJ and ALK on GM-mediated nephrotoxicity.

Materials and Methods

Thirty-two adult female. Wistar rats were divided equally into four groups: (I) Receiving normal saline; (II) GM (100 mg/kg, intraperitoneal [i.p.] injection); GM (100 mg/kg, i.p. injection) plus ALK (50 mg/kg, i.p. injection); and (IV) GM (100 mg/kg, i.p. injection) plus ALK (50 mg/kg, i.p. injection) in combination with RJ (150 mg/kg, orally). All treatments were administered daily for 10 days. The blood levels of creatinine, urea, uric acid, albumin, and total protein were measured. Then, the animals were sacrificed, and the kidneys were taken for histopathology.

Results

Compared to normal control rats, GM-injected rats showed significantly (p<0.001) higher serum concentrations of uric acid, urea, and creatinine as well as evidently (p<0.001) lower blood levels of albumin and total protein. Moreover, GM administration was associated with significant renal histopathological changes. All these alterations were considerably (p<0.05) improved in GM-injected rats receiving ALK compared to rats receiving GM alone. However, when RJ was given in combination with ALK to GM-injected rats, it lessened the beneficial nephroprotective effects of both agents.

Conclusion

The combination treatment of RJ and ALK is not desirable for GM-induced nephrotoxicity. Further studies are crucial to accurately explore the precise mechanism of RJ antagonistic interaction with ALK.

Effescts of acute diclofenac exposure on intestinal histology, antioxidant defense, and microbiota in freshwater crayfish (Procambarus clarkii)

In the present study, we exposed Procambarus clarkii to different doses (0, 1, and 10 mg/L) of diclofenac (DCF). Meanwhile, we investigated the effects of exposure to DCF on intestinal histology, antioxidant defense, and microbial communities in P. clarkii. The results showed DCF caused histological changes in the intestines. Additionally, DCF induced significant changes in the expression of antioxidant genes including Mn-sod, cat, gst, and gpx. High-throughput sequencing of 16 S rRNA gene revealed DCF changed the diversity, richness, and composition of intestinal microbial communities. The relative abundances of the predominant phyla Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, and Actinobacteria showed significant changes at the phylum level after treatment with DCF. At the genus level, the most predominant genera with marked differences in abundance were Lucibacterium, Shewanella, Bacteroides, Anaerorhabdus, Aeromonas, Acinetobacter, Clostridium XlVb, Arcobacter, Bosea, and so on. To conclude, treatment with DCF could cause intestinal histological damage, induce significant changes of the expression of intestinal antioxidant genes, and impact the composition of intestinal microbiota in P. clarkii. This research will provide novel insights into the toxic effects of DCF on aquatic crustaceans.

Royal jelly attenuates gastric mucosal injury in a rat ethanol-induced gastric injury model

The aim of the study was to investigate traditionally used Royal Jelly (RJ) for treating an ethanol-induced gastric ulcer model in rats. A total of 32 Wistar albino male rats were divided into 4 groups of 8: group I = Control, group II = Ethanol, group III = RJ + Ethanol, and group IV = Lansoprazole + Ethanol. In groups II, III, and IV, animals were administered 1 ml of absolute ethanol orally after a 24-h fast to induce ulcer formation. The histopathological changes in the gastric mucosa were determined using hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) staining. Immunohistochemically, inducible nitric oxide (iNOS) and nuclear factor kappa beta (Nf-κβ) markings were evaluated in gastric tissue. Cell death in the gastric mucosa was determined by the TUNEL method. Oxidative status markers, superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), catalase (CAT), and myeloperoxidase (MPO) levels were determined spectrophotometrically. Expression of the interleukin - 1 beta (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) genes in gastric tissues was determined by real-time PCR; and TNF-α, IL-10, and IL-1β levels were determined. RJ was found to inhibit iNOS and Nf-κβ activity in the gastric mucosa and prevent epithelial cell apoptosis. In particular, pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-1β levels were significantly decreased in the RJ + Ethanol group compared to the Ethanol group. In addition, a decrease in the MPO level indicated that RJ prevented tissue damage, especially by preventing inflammatory cell infiltration. The study demonstrated a possible gastroprotective effect of RJ in a rat ethanol-induced gastric ulcer model.