Grape juice concentrate protects reproductive parameters of male rats against cadmium-induced damage: a chronic assay

Cadmium exposure in infants and children: toxicity, health effects, dietary risk assessment and mitigation strategies

As a non-essential metal, cadmium (Cd) poses a significant threat to food safety and public health. This risk is particularly pronounced for infants and young children due to their high food consumption relative to body weight and immature physiological systems. This review examines the health risks associated with Cd exposure, particularly during the prenatal period through adolescence. It evaluates the prevalence of Cd-rich foods in children's diets and their intake levels across various countries. The review demonstrates that Cd exposure is associated with neurodevelopmental disorders, immune dysfunction, and cardiovascular diseases. It also highlights geographic differences in exposure, with some Asian countries, such as Thailand and China, exhibiting higher overall levels of Cd intake among children compared to other regions. This review presents several recommendations to mitigate Cd intake during early childhood, including reducing the Cd content in food, inhibiting Cd absorption, and promoting its excretion from the body. To minimize the risk of dietary Cd intake in children, it is recommended that stringent regulations of Cd limits in children's food be implemented, alongside a coordinated multi-stakeholder effort. This review provides important insights into effective public health policy development, laying the foundation for achieving broader public health goals.

Environmental and occupational exposure to cadmium associated with male reproductive health risk: a systematic review and meta-analysis based on epidemiological evidence

There is an abundance of epidemiological evidence and animal experiments concerning the correlation between cadmium exposure and adverse male reproductive health outcomes. However, the evidence remains inconclusive. We conducted a literature search from PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science over the past 3 decades. Pooled r and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were derived from Cd levels of the type of biological materials and different outcome indicators to address the large heterogeneity of existing literature. Cd was negatively correlated with semen parameters (r = - 0.122, 95% CI - 0.151 to - 0.092) and positively correlated with sera sex hormones (r = 0.104, 95% CI 0.060 to 0.147). Among them, Cd in three different biological materials (blood, semen, and urine) was negatively correlated with semen parameters, while among sex hormones, only blood and urine were statistically positively correlated. In subgroup analysis, blood Cd was negatively correlated with semen density, sperm motility, sperm morphology, and sperm count. Semen Cd was negatively correlated with semen concentration. As for serum sex hormones, blood Cd had no statistical significance with three hormones, while semen Cd was negatively correlated with testosterone. In summary, cadmium exposure might be associated with the risk of a decline in sperm quality and abnormal levels of sex hormones.

Ameliorative effect of Vitis vinifera (Linn.) seed extract on lead acetate induced oxidative damage on testis and sperm quality in Wistar rats

Lead is considered one of the most prevalent environmental and biologically hazardous toxicants among metallic elements. It severely affects human health and especially the male reproductive system by causing reproductive organ dysfunction leading to infertility. Natural dietary antioxidants are studied for their ability to ameliorate the cells' miscellaneous damage. The current study was designed to explore the effect of Vitis vinifera (Linn.) (grape) seed extract (GSE) on lead acetate (LA)-induced oxidative damage on testis and sperm quality in rats. Twenty-four male Wistar rats were allocated into four equal groups. Group I received distilled water; Group II received LA 50 mg/kg body weight (Bw); Group III received LA 50 mg/kg + GSE 200 mg/kg Bw; and Group IV received LA 50 mg/kg + GSE 400 mg/kg Bw (orally once a day for 28 days). After 28 days, levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and reduced glutathione (GSH) were estimated in the testicular tissue. The cauda of the epididymis was used to study the characteristics of the sperm, such as sperm count, motility, viability, tail-coiled sperm, and morphology. The hematoxylin and eosin staining method was used to study histomorphology. Results revealed that LA induction significantly increased MDA concentration and decreased the levels of SOD, CAT, GPx, and GSH. It also reduced the weight of the testis and testosterone hormone levels, declined the quality of sperm, and increased morphologically abnormal sperm. Moreover, LA severely altered the histomorphology of the testis, such as atrophy of the seminiferous tubule, degeneration of germinal epithelium, and increased interstitial space, compared with the control group. In Groups III and IV, coadministration of LA with GSE reduced the MDA concentration, preserved the antioxidant enzyme system and testosterone hormonal levels, restored the sperm characteristics, reduced the abnormal sperm, and improved histomorphological alterations in the testis compared with the LA-induced group. In conclusion, GSE has a potent natural antioxidant that provides promising protection against LA-induced testicular oxidative damage on testis and sperm quality in rats.

Ameliorative effects of morel mushroom (Morchella esculenta) against Cadmium-induced reproductive toxicity in adult male rats

Cadmium (Cd) is one of the major toxicants, which affects human health through occupational and environmental exposure. In the current study, we evaluated the protective effects of morel mushrooms against Cd-induced reproductive damages in rats. For this purpose, 30 male rats were divided into 6 groups (n=5/group), the first group served as the control group, second group was treated with an intraperitoneal (i.p) injection of 1 mg/kg/day of Cd. Third and fourth groups were co-treated with 1 mg/kg/day of Cd (i.p) and 10 and 20 mg/kg/day of morel mushroom extract (orally) respectively. The final 2 groups received oral gavage of 10 and 20 mg/kg/day of morel mushroom extract alone. After treatment for 17 days, the animals were euthanized, and testes and epididymis were dissected out. One testis and epididymis of each animal were processed for histology, while the other testis and epididymis were used for daily sperm production (DSP) and comet assay. Our results showed that Cd and morel mushrooms have no effect on animal weight, but Cd significantly decreases the DSP count and damages the heritable DNA which is reversed in co-treatment groups. Similarly, the histopathological results of testes and epididymis show that morel mushrooms control the damage to these tissues. Whereas the morel mushroom extract alone could enhance the production of testosterone. These results conclude that morel mushrooms not only control the damage done by Cd, but it could also be used as a protection mechanism for heritable DNA damage.

Herbal foodstuffs in Avicenna's recommended diet to improve sperm quality and increase male fertility; an evidence-based approach

Attention to diet was considered important issues in improvement of men infertility in Persian Medicine (PM). The purpose of this study was to extract herbal foodstuffs introduced by Avicenna, one of the greatest PM physicians to improve the semen production and to provide evidence of their impact on the basis of current studies."Canon of Medicine", the most important Avecinna's book, was searched with keywords equivalent to semen, fertility and infertility, main herbal foodstuffs were extracted and was searched with keywords sperm, semen, infertility, and fertility in Google scholar, PubMed and Scopus databases. Manuscripts from 1950 up to December 2019 were selected and reviewed. Almond, Onion, Chickpea, Garlic, Coconut, Palm date, Sesame, Fenugreek, Carrot, Fig, Grapes, Pistachio, Hazelnut and Walnut are among main foodstuffs which recommended by Avicenna and there is also evidence that they have positive effects on testosterone production and improvement of various sperm parameters, including count, motility and morphology. Containing large amount of different macro and micronutrients such as vitamins including vit B, C, A and E, minerals such as Mg, Se, Zn, Cu and Fe, important unsaturated fatty acids such as linoleic and oleic acids, amino acids such as lysine and arginine and phytochemicals such as polyphenols, flavonoids, triterpenes and steroids can be considered as a main factor in the effectiveness of these foodstuffs. Designing a diet based on the fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds that Avicenna has recommended, may be effective in treating male infertility but further studies are needed to clarify this issue. Research on the effectiveness of his other recommended foodsuffs may also offer new treatments and supplements for this purpose.

A review on Cadmium Exposure in the Population and Intervention Strategies Against Cadmium Toxicity

The rapid industrial development has led to serious cadmium (Cd) pollution. Cd is a toxic heavy metal placing severe health threat to human. Cd can enter the body through the atmosphere, water, soil and food, and has a long half-life (10-30 years), it largely accumulates in kidneys, liver, bone and other organs and causes irreversible damage to the target organs. Cd pollution has also further caused certain carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic health risk. This study summarizes the current situation of Cd pollution, the toxicity of specific target organs, carcinogenic risk and non-carcinogenic risk in the general population, as well as dietary supplements to prevent and mitigate Cd toxication, which aims to focus on the adverse effects of Cd to human from both individual and population perspectives, hoping that not only the health risk of Cd poisoning can be reduced, but also the accurate prevention and control of Cd poisoning can be achieved in the future.

Metal toxicity and natural antidotes: prevention is better than cure

Toxicity due to heavy metals (HM), specifically mercury (Hg), arsenic (As), lead (Pb), and cadmium (Cd) remains a challenge to scientists till date. This review gives insights into natural antidotes for the management and prevention of HM toxicity. Various databases such as PubMed, Embase, and Science Direct were searched for available facts on natural antidotes and their commercial products against HM toxicity till date. Toxicity owing to such metals needs prevention rather than therapy. Natural antidotes, fruits and vegetables, rich in antioxidant are the answers to such toxicities. Synthetic chelators impart a major drawback of removing essential metals required for normal body function, along with the toxic one. Natural antioxidants are bestowed with scavenging and chelation properties and can be alternative for synthetic chelating agents. Natural compounds are abundantly available, economic, and have minimal side effects when compared with classical chelators. Prevention is better than cure and thus adding plentiful vegetables and fruits to our diet can combat HM toxicity-related illness. Graphical abstract.

Sulforaphane response on aluminum-induced oxidative stress, alterations in sperm characterization and testicular histomorphometry in Wistar rats

Background

The exposure of male individual to environmental toxicant is regarded as a channel that results in reduced sperm counts and infertility.

Objective

This study investigated the ameliorative response of Sulforaphane (SFN) on Aluminum trichloride (AlCl3) induced testicular toxicity in adult male Wistar rats.

Materials and Methods

A total of 32 adult male Wistar rats (180-200 gm between 8-10 wk) were divided into four groups (n = 8/each). Group A) received distilled water orally as placebo; Group B) received 100 mg/kgbw AlCl3 only orally; Group C) received 100 mg/kgbw AlCl3 and 100 mg/kgbw SFN orally; and Group D) received 100 mg/kgbw SFN only orally. After 28 days of experiment, animals underwent cervical dislocation, blood serum was obtained for analysis, and testes were harvested for biochemical assays, histology, hormonal profile, and sperm characterization.

Results

The sperm parameters showed a significant difference within the AlCl3 only group compared with the control and SFN only groups (p = 0.02). However, AlCl3 and SFN co-treatment showed improvement in the motility, viability, and sperm count compared with the AlCl3 only group (p = 0.02). Furthermore, there was a significant decline in the levels of hormones profile and antioxidant status in AlCl3 only group compared to the control and SFN only (p = 0.02). The testicular histoarchitecture of the AlCl3 only group showed shrinkage of seminiferous tubules, spermatogenesis disruption, and empty lumen compared to the control and SFN only groups.

Conclusion

The present study revealed the ameliorative response of SFN on AlCl3-induced testicular toxicity on serum hormone profiles, antioxidant status, lipid peroxidation, and histomorphometric analysis through oxidative stress.

Brazilian berry extract (Myrciaria jaboticaba): A promising therapy to minimize prostatic inflammation and oxidative stress

BACKGROUND

Brazilian berry is a fruit popularly known as "Jaboticaba," rich in bioactive compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Senescence and overweight are increasing worldwide and are considered risk factors to prostatic pathogenesis mainly due to oxidative and inflammatory processes induction. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of two increasing doses of the patented jaboticaba peel extract (PJE) on oxidative-stress and inflammation in the prostate of aging or high-fat-fed aging mice.

METHODS

PJE and/or high-fat diet (HFD) treatments started with 11-month-old mice and lasted 60 days. The levels or the immunoexpression of different inflammatory (nuclear factor κB [NFκB], CD3+, cyclooxygenase 2 [COX-2], toll-like receptor 4 [TLR4], phosphorylated signal transducers and activators of transcription 3 [pSTAT-3], tumor necrosis factor α [TNF-α], interleukin 6 [IL-6], and IL-1β) and oxidative-stress (catalase, superoxide dismutase 2 [SOD2], glutathione reductase [GSR], reduced glutathione, and glutathione peroxidase 3 [GPx3]) related molecules were analyzed by western-blotting, immunohistochemistry, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays.

RESULTS

Both PJE doses reduced the levels of oxidative-stress-related molecules (GPx3, GSR, catalase), lipid peroxidation (4-hydroxynonenal), inflammatory mediators (COX-2, TNF-α, and pSTAT-3) and CD3+ T cells number, which were associated with the maintenance of the glandular morphological integrity in aging and HFD-fed-aging mice. Nevertheless, only the high PJE dose reduced the NFκB and TLR4 levels in aging mice; and SOD2, IL-6, and IL-1β levels in HFD-aging mice. Aging itself promoted an oxidative inflammation in the prostate, interfering in the levels of the different oxidative-stress, lipid peroxidation, and inflammatory mediators evaluated, in association with high incidence of prostate epithelial and stromal damages. The HFD intake intensified aging alterations, showing an unfavorable prostatic microenvironment prone to oxidative and inflammatory damages.

CONCLUSIONS

PJE exerted a dose-dependent effect controlling inflammation and oxidative-stress in aging and HFD-fed aging mice prostate. This fact contributed to prostate microenvironment balance recovery, preserving the tissue architecture of this gland. Thus, the PJE emerges as a potential therapy to prevent inflammation and oxidative stress in the prostate.

Ameliorative effect of edible Halopteris scoparia against cadmium-induced reproductive toxicity in male mice: A biochemical and histopathologic study

Cadmium (Cd) is a toxic metal affecting the reproductive system. Halopteris scoparia (brown algae) is generally consumed as a salad in the Far East countries. This study was conducted to compare and determine the possible protective effects of H. scoparia and vitamin E and C combination (VEC) against cadmium chloride (CdCl2 )-induced reproductive toxicity. A total of 36 male mice were equally divided into as control, CdCl2 (2 mg/kg), CdCl2  + H. scoparia (900 mg/kg), CdCl2  + VEC (200 mg/kg), H. scoparia alone and VEC alone groups. Blood and testis samples were taken for biochemical, histochemical and immunohistochemical analyses. H. scoparia was also examined for antioxidant activity (by DPPH assay) and mineral/trace element content (by ICP-MS method). CdCl2 exposure caused a significant deterioration in body weight, sperm parameters (count, motility, viability and morphology) (p < .001), histopathology, immunoreactivity and testosterone levels. However, H. scoparia improved CdCl2 -induced deterioration effects more successfully than VEC-treated group. The present study suggests that edible H. scoparia can be used as a natural protective agent against Cd-induced testicular damage by possibly enhancing essential element levels or increasing antioxidant defence system.

Benefits of the consumption of Brazil nut (Bertholletia excelsa) extract in male reproductive parameters of streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

Objective

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of intake of Brazil nut extract (BN) or sodium selenite solution on reproductive parameters of male diabetic animals.

Methods

A total of 48 Wistar rats were distributed into six groups: diabetes (n = 8); diabetes and Brazil nut extract (n = 8); diabetes and sodium selenite (Na₂SeO₃) (n = 8); Brazil nut extract (n = 8); sodium selenite (n = 8) and control (n = 8). A single dose of streptozotocin (65 mg/kg) was injected intravenously to the rats to induce diabetes. BN or Na₂SeO₃ were administered by gavage for 56 days.

Results

The diabetes caused critical alterations on body mass gain, reproductive parameters and antioxidant capacity. Treatments with both BN or Na₂SeO₃ were able to increase significantly the glutathione peroxidase and the daily sperm production, both in diabetic (p < 0.01 and p < 0.05) and in healthy animals (p < 0.01 and p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The Brazil nut extract and sodium selenite were able to improve some reproductive parameters of diabetic rats. Moreover, we could infer that this effect is probably due to the natural selenium content of the BN.

Plants in the management of male infertility

This review attempts to collate existing data and provide the perspectives for future studies on the effects of plants on the male gonads. For many of these medicinal plants such as Lepidium meyenii, Rupus coreanus, Tribulus terrestres, Panax ginseng, Petasites japonicas, Apium graveolens, Eurycoma longifólia, Pedalium murex, Corchorus depressus, Mucuna pruriens, Astragalus membranaceus, Nigella sativa, Crataegus monogyna, Fagara tessmannii, Phaleria macrocarpa, Anacyclus pyrethrum, Cynomorium songaricum and Morinda officinalis, the mechanism of actions of their active principles and crude extracts has been shown in both laboratory animals, in vitro, and human studies, and includes their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, spermatogenesis-inducing, aphrodisiac, smooth muscle relaxing and androgenic properties. Several active chemical leads including glucosinolates, anthocyanins, protodioscin, ginsenosides, sesquiterpenes, phyto-oestrogens, quassinoids, diosgenin, thymoquinone, proanthocyanidins and bajijiasu isolated from these plants are known to have target effects on the testis, but efforts have been limited in their application at the clinical level. There still appear to be many more extracts of medicinal plants that have not been characterised to determine the phytochemicals unique to them that have target effects on the gonads. Further, collaborative efforts at isolating pro-drug candidates from medicinal plants for studies at the molecular, cellular and clinical level towards elucidating their mechanisms of action on the testes are therefore warranted in the light of the current male fertility crisis.

Natural antidotes and management of metal toxicity

The global burden of heavy metal especially mercury, arsenic, lead, and cadmium toxicities remains a significant public health challenge. Developing nations are particularly at high risk and carry the highest burden of this hazard. Chelation therapy has been the mainstay for treatment of heavy metal poisoning where the chelating agent binds metal ions to form complex ring-like structures called "chelates" to enhance their elimination from the body. Metal chelators have some drawbacks such as redistribution of some heavy metals from other tissues to the brain thereby increasing its neurotoxicity, causing loss of essential metals such as copper and zinc as well as some serious adverse effects, e.g., hepatotoxicity. The use of natural antidotes, which are easily available, affordable, and with little or no side effects compared to the classic metal chelators, is the focus of this review and suggested as cheaper options for developing nations in the treatment of heavy metal poisoning.

Grape skin extract mitigates tissue degeneration, genotoxicity, and oxidative status in multiple organs of rats exposed to cadmium

The aim of this study was to investigate whether grape skin extract can mitigate the noxious activities induced by cadmium exposure in multiple organs of rats. For this purpose, histopathological analysis for the liver, genotoxicity, and oxidative status in the blood and liver were investigated in this setting. A total of 20 Wistar rats weighing 250 g, on average, and 8 weeks of age were distributed into four groups (n=5) as follows: control group (nontreated group); cadmium group (Cd); and grape skin extract groups (Cd+GS) at 175 or 350 mg/l. Histopathological analysis in liver showed that animals treated with grape skin extract showed improved tissue degeneration induced by cadmium intoxication. Genetic damage was reduced in blood and hepatocytes as indicated by comet and micronucleus assays in animals treated with grape skin extract. Copper-zinc superoxide dismutase and cytochrome c gene expression increased in groups treated with grape skin extract in liver cells. Grape skin extract also reduced the 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine levels in liver cells compared with the cadmium group. Taken together, our results indicate that grape skin extract can mitigate tissue degeneration, genotoxicity, and oxidative stress induced by cadmium exposure in multiple organs of Wistar rats.

Grape juice concentrate alleviates epididymis and sperm damage in cadmium-intoxicated rats

The possibility of long-term grape juice concentrate (GJC) consumption conferring a protective effect against cadmium (Cd)-induced damage to the epididymis, completely preserving sperm profile, was evaluated here for the first time in the scientific literature. Male Wistar rats (n = 6/per group) received an intraperitoneal Cd injection (1.2 mg/Kg) at age 80 days and GJC (2 g/Kg) by gavage from 50 days until 136 days old. Groups receiving either Cd or GJC were added. An intraperitoneal injection of saline (0.9%) and water by gavage was administered in the absence of treatment with Cd or GJC. Animals were anaesthetized and exsanguinated at 136 days; the vas deferens, left testis and epididymis were removed; and perfusion continued with fixative. The right epididymis was collected for morphological analysis. Cd had a devastating effect demonstrated by reduced sperm count in testes and epididymis, sperm production and normal sperm count, besides increased epididymis sperm transit time and completely disorganized morphology. These alterations were attributed to higher Cd levels in the testes and a lipid peroxidation (LP) process. Consumption of GJC plus Cd intoxication was effective, reducing metal accumulation and LP. Consequently, we could identify a preserved sperm profile, with improvement in testis and epididymis sperm count, normal sperm structure and sperm transit time. Moreover, GJC extends its protective effect to the epididymis, allowing complete re-establishment of its morphology, ensuring successful sperm maturation process. In conclusion, our study indicates long-term GJC as a promising therapy against reproductive chemical intoxication injury damage, preserving sperm prior to ejaculation.

Potential ameliorative effects of grape seed-derived polyphenols against cadmium induced prostatic deficits

Grape (Vitis vinifera) is consumed as fruit and wine for people. In this study, rat model of prostatic deficits was induced by orally receiving 60mg/L cadmium chlorine (CdCl₂) through drinking water for 20 weeks. Grape seed-derived polyphenols extract (GSP) was orally given for 20 weeks. Finally, the prostatic levels of E-cadherin, fibronectin, and α-smooth muscle actin were measured by immunohistochemical and qPCR analysis. The oxidative stress was measured by detecting the levels of malondialdehyde, nitric oxide, reduced glutathione/oxidized glutathione and enzymatic antioxidant status. Additionally, the prostatic expressions of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), type I TGF-β receptor (TGF-βRI), Smad3, phosphorylation-Smad3 (p-Smad3), Smad7, nuclear related factor-2 (Nrf-2), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and γ-glutamate cysteine ligase catalytic subunit (γ-GCLC) were measured by western blot. The levels of microRNA (miR)-133a/b were measured by qPCR. It was observed that GSP ameliorated the prostatic oxidative stress and fibrosis induced by CdCl₂. GSP also inhibited the over-generation of TGF-β1 and p-Smad3, as well as enhanced the levels of Smad7, Nrf-2, HO-1, γ-GCLC and miR-133a/b. These results showed that GSP could attenuate Cd-induced prostatic deficits.

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

Background:

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

Materials and Methods:

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

Results:

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

Conclusion:

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

Rutin, an antioxidant flavonoid, induces glutathione and glutathione peroxidase activities to protect against ethanol effects in cadmium-induced oxidative stress in the testis of adult rats

Exposure to cadmium (Cd) reduces sperm quality and induces oxidative stress in the testis. Rutin is an effective antioxidant flavonoid. We studied the effect of ethanol (EtOH, 5 g/kg b.wt.) intake on Cd (50 mg/kg b.wt.)-induced testicular toxicity with or without RUT pre-treatment (25, 50, 100 mg/kg b.wt.) in rats. At the end of the 15-day oral treatment, co-treatment with EtOH decreased the activities of glutathione (GSH), GSH-peroxidase and superoxide dismutase resulting to slight increase in the testicular MDA level compared to Cd-treated rats. The Cd+EtOH animals had higher levels of abnormal spermatozoa, decreased epididymal sperm number and serum testosterone levels (p < .05) compared to the Cd-treated animals. Rutin co-administration protected against the EtOH effects in a dose-dependent manner, with the Cd+EtOH+50 mg/kg RUT- and Cd+EtOH+100 mg/kg RUT-treated animals having higher GSH and GSH-Px activities beyond the control values (p < .05). In a supplementary study, animals treated daily with RUT alone (25, 50, 100 mg/kg b.wt.) for 15 days dose-dependently increased testicular GSH-peroxidase and GSH activities by 9.38%, 31.25%, 56.25% and 7.14%, 32.14%, 60.71%, respectively, compared to control values. Therefore, RUT induces GSH and GSH-Px activities to protect against Cd+EtOH-induced testis oxidative stress in rats.

Anti-Apoptotic and Anti-Oxidant Effects of Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester on Cadmium-Induced Testicular Toxicity in Rats

Cadmium (Cd) is a serious environmental and occupational contaminant and may represent a serious health hazard to humans and other animals. Cd is reported to induce the generation of reactive oxygen species, and induces testicular damage in many species of animals. The goal of our study was to examine the anti-apoptotic and anti-oxidant effects of caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) on Cd-induced oxidative stress, apoptosis, and testicular injury in rats. A total of 40 male Wistar albino rats were divided into four groups: control, CAPE alone, Cd-treated, and Cd-treated with CAPE; each group consisted of 10 animals. To induce toxicity, Cd (1 mg/kg body weight) was dissolved in normal saline and subcutaneously injected into rats for 30 days. The rats in CAPE-treated group were given a daily dose of 10 μmol/kg body weight of CAPE by using intraperitoneal injection. This application was continued daily for a total of 30 days. To date, no examinations of the anti-apoptotic and anti-oxidant properties of CAPE on Cd-induced apoptosis, oxidative damage, and testicular injury in rat testes have been reported. CAPE-treated animals showed an improved histological appearance and serum testosterone levels in Cd-treated group. Our data indicate a significant reduction in the number of apoptotic cells in testis tissues of the Cd-treated group with CAPE treatment. Moreover, CAPE significantly suppressed lipid peroxidation, compensated deficits in the anti-oxidant defenses in testes tissue resulted from Cd administration. These findings suggest that the protective potential of CAPE in Cd toxicity might be due to its anti-oxidant and anti-apoptotic properties, which could be useful for achieving optimum effects in Cd-induced testicular injury.

Phytochemicals Mediated Remediation of Neurotoxicity Induced by Heavy Metals

Almost all the environmental components including both the abiotic and biotic factors have been consistently threatened by excessive contamination of heavy metals continuously released from various sources. Different heavy metals have been reported to generate adverse effects in many ways. Heavy metals induced neurotoxicity and impairment in signalling cascade leading to cell death (apoptosis) has been indicated by several workers. On one hand, these metals are required by the cellular systems to regulate various biological functions of normal cells, while on the other their biomagnification in the cellular systems produces adverse effects. The mechanism by which the heavy metals induce neurotoxicity follows free radicals production pathway(s) specially the generation of reactive oxygen species and reactive nitrogen species. These free radicals produced in excess have been shown to create an imbalance between the oxidative and antioxidative systems leading to emergence of oxidative stress, which may cause necrosis, DNA damage, and many neurodegenerative disorders. This mini review summarizes the current knowledge available on the protective role of varied natural products isolated from different herbs/plants in imparting protection against heavy metals (cadmium, lead, arsenic, and mercury) mediated neurotoxicity.

Grape juice concentrate (G8000(®) ) intake mitigates testicular morphological and ultrastructural damage following cadmium intoxication

Cadmium is a well-known testicular toxicant, and parts of the world population are exposed chronically by inhalation or by food and water intake. Grape products have been highlighted as important sources of bioactive compounds, having anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and metal chelating properties. Since maintenance of tissue morphology is essential for testicular sperm development and hence male fertility, we analysed the protective effect of grape juice concentrate (GJC) (G8000(®) ) consumption on testicular morphology in rats exposed to cadmium. Thus, four groups of male Wistar rats (n = 6 per group), 50 days old, ingested either water or G8000(®) (2 g/kg/day) until they had completed one spermatogenic cycle in adult life (136 days old). Cadmium (1.2 mg / kg) was injected intraperitoneally when the animals were 80 days old into one of the water and one of the G8000 groups; intraperitoneal saline was used as a control in the other two groups. Animals anaesthetised and exsanguinated at 136 days and then perfused with Karnovsky's fixative and then the testes were collected for morphological analysis. We describe evident disruption of testicular morphology by cadmium, with alteration in tissue component proportions, reduced Leydig cells volume and initial signs of an inflammatory process. Ultrastructural analysis showed greater damage, suggesting spermatogenesis disruption. G8000(®) ingestion allowed tissue architecture to be re-established, as was corroborated by our stereological and morphometric findings. Animals from the group where G8000(®) had been administered together with cadmium revealed a significant reduction in macrophages and blood vessel volume, suggesting diminished inflammation, when compared to animals that received only cadmium. Moreover, smaller number of ultrastructural alterations was noted, revealing fewer areas of degeneration and disorganized interstitium. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that GJC consumption prevented the spermatogenic disruption promoted by cadmium, and thus could be a promising form of therapy against male infertility.

Dietary strategies for the treatment of cadmium and lead toxicity

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

Antimutagenic and antigenotoxic potential of grape juice concentrate in blood and liver of rats exposed to cadmium

The aim of this study was to evaluate the antimutagenic and antigenotoxic potential of grape juice concentrate in rodent organs exposed to cadmium chloride intoxication. A total of 15 Wistar rats were distributed into three groups (n = 5), as follows: control group (CTRL; nontreated group), cadmium group (Cd), and cadmium-grape juice group (Cd + GJ). Exposed animals received intraperitoneal injection of cadmium chloride (1.2 mg/kg body weight) diluted in water and, after 15 days, Cd + GJ group received grape juice concentrate for 15 days, by gavage (0.8 mL, 1.18 mg of polyphenols kg(-1) day(-1)). Grape juice concentrate was able to decrease genotoxic effects induced by cadmium in peripheral blood and liver cells as depicted by single cell gel (comet) and micronucleus assays. A decrease for anti-8-hydroxy-20-deoxyguanosine (8OHdG) expression in hepatocytes of animals exposed to cadmium and treated with grape juice concentrate was also detected. Higher CuZn-SOD activity was observed in liver cells of the Cd + GJ group. No remarkable differences were seen regarding Mn-SOD activity among groups. Taken together, our results demonstrate that grape juice concentrate was able to exert antimutagenic and antigenotoxic activities in blood and liver cells of rats exposed to cadmium.

Anti-tumor activity of grape juice concentrate in the rat tongue two-stage initiation-promotion protocol induced by 4-nitroquinoline 1-oxide

The aim of this study was to evaluate the anti-tumor activity of grape juice concentrate following medium-term oral carcinogenesis assay induced by 4-nitroquinoline 1-oxide (4NQO). A total of 30 male Wistar rats were distributed into five groups, as follows (n = 6 per group): Group 1 - negative control group (non-treated group); Group 2 - received grape juice concentrate at 1% dose by gavage for eight consecutive weeks; Group 3 - received 4NQO for 8 weeks at 20 ppm dose in drinking water daily; Group 4 - received 4NQO at 20 ppm dose during 8 weeks in drinking water and treated with grape juice concentrate at 1% dose orally by gavage for first 4 weeks after 4-NQO administration; Group 5 - received 4NQO at 20 ppm dose for 8 weeks in drinking water and treated with grape juice concentrate at 1% dose orally by gavage between the 5th and 8th weeks daily. Histopathological analysis revealed a decrease in hyperplasic and dysplastic lesions in Group 4. Groups 4 and 5 showed decreased COX-2 and TNF-alpha and eNOS gene expression. Grape juice concentrate also increased SOD Cu/Zn and catalase expression. However, Ki-67 immunoexpression was reduced at the promotion step of oral carcinogenesis (G5). Taken together, our results demonstrate that grape juice concentrate modulates rat tongue carcinogenesis as a result of anti-inflammatory activity, antioxidant activity and down-regulation of oral cells proliferation.