Development of food-grade antimicrobials of fenugreek oil nanoemulsion-bioactivity and toxicity analysis

Antimicrobials of natural origin are proving to be an effective solution to emerging antimicrobial resistance and its physiological side effects. Recent studies have demonstrated that essential oils encapsulated in the form of nanoemulsions have better antimicrobial activity than the oil itself, possibly due to its high stability, solubility, sustained release, and increased bioavailability. In the present study, fenugreek oil-a well-known antimicrobial and antioxidant-has been used to fabricate nanoemulsion (NE), with an objective to meet potential alternative to synthesized antimicrobials. A combination of three different components, water, fenugreek oil, and Tween 80, has been used to prepare the nanoemulsions of different size and one of the most stable nanoemulsion with lowest concentration of surfactant Tween 80 was used to assess its bioactivity, antimicrobial properties, and toxicity against human hepatic cell line. Among all the formulations, nano-emulsion with 2.5% oil concentration, 30 min sonication (hydrodynamic size 135.2 nm, zeta potential 36.8 mV, PDI 0.135, and pH 5.12), was selected for all studies. The nanoemulsion showed potential antibacterial activity against all the microbial strains (Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) used in this study. Interestingly, the nanoemulsion showed potential antibacterial activity against P. aeruginosa, known to show resistance against ampicillin. The toxicity evaluation in human hepatic cell line (WRL-68) indicated no significant toxicity of nanoemulsion up to the concentration of 800 µg/ml. The synthesized nanoemulsion thus has a translational potential as a food-grade non-toxic natural nanoantimicrobials.

Subchronic toxicity of oral deltamethrin in laying chickens

Pyrethroid pesticides, with low toxicity to birds and mammals and short persistence in the environment, are widely used now. With the development of intensive poultry farming, pesticide application leads to residues in poultry products and pollution in ecological environment. The aim of the present study was to examine deltamethrin subchronic toxicity in laying chickens. One hundred and twelve laying chickens were randomly assigned to 14 groups including 13 groups medicated with deltamethrin (n = 8) and one unmedicated group used as control (n = 8). Tissue samples were collected during and after administration for weighing and histopathological analysis. A single dose of deltamethrin (20 mg·kg^-1·BW·d) was administered orally to laying chickens for 14 days. The results showed that deltamethrin has no significant effect on the relative organ weight of laying chickens (p > 0.05). The activities of aspartate aminotransferase and cholinesterase in the plasma gradually decreased over time in the medicated group (p < 0.05). Plasma concentrations of urea nitrogen, uric acid, cholesterol, triglycerides, and creatinine significantly increased during treatment (p < 0.05), and significant liver damage and loss of intestinal villous epithelium were observed. The intestinal wall thickness, villus height, and crypt depth of laying chickens were altered by deltamethrin treatment. During treatment was withdrawn, the intestinal repair was more extensive than the liver repair.

Biochemical, molecular and cytological impacts of alpha-lipoic acid and Ginkgo biloba in ameliorating testicular dysfunctions induced by silver nanoparticles in rats

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are commonly utilized in medicine. However, they have negative effects on the majority of organs, including the reproductive system. AgNPs were reported to be able to reach the testicular tissues due to their nano size, which allows them to pass through blood-testicular barriers. The goal of this study was to see if alpha-lipoic acid (LA) or Ginkgo biloba (GB) might protect adult rat testes after intraperitoneal injection of AgNPs. Forty male healthy adult Wister albino rats were randomly assigned to four groups: control, AgNPs-intoxicated group intraperitoneally injected AgNPs 50 mg/kg b.w, 3 times a week; LA + AgNPs group intoxicated with AgNPs and orally gavaged with 100 mg LA/kg b.w; and GB + AgNPs group injected with AgNPs and orally given GB extract 120 mg/kg b.w for 30 consecutive days. Biochemical changes (testosterone, ACP, and prostatic acid phosphatase), oxidative indices, mRNA expression of proapoptotic (BAX) and anti-apoptotic (BCL-2) biomarkers, histological, and immunohistochemical changes in testicular tissues were investigated. Significant decrease in serum testosterone level and elevation in ACP and PACP enzyme activity in AgNPs-treated rats. As well, there were lowering in tGSH, GSH GR, GPx, and elevation in MDA and GSSG values. AgNPs-exposed rats expressed downregulation of testicular thirodexin-1 (Txn-1), transforming growth factor-1β (TGF-1β), anti-apoptotic (BCL-2), and upregulaion of proapoptotic biomarkers (BAX) mRNA expressions. Strong positive action to BAX and lowering the action of Ki-67 antibody were observed. Because of their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties, cotreatment with LA or GB could be beneficial in reducing the harmful effects of AgNPs on the testicles.

α-Lipoic Acid, an Organosulfur Biomolecule a Novel Therapeutic Agent for Neurodegenerative Disorders: An Mechanistic Perspective

Lipoic acid (α-LA) (1,2-dithiolane3-pentanoic acid (C₈H₁₄O₂S₂) is also called thioctic acid with an oxidized (disulfide, LA) and a reduced (di-thiol: dihydro-lipoic acid, DHLA) form of LA. α-LA is a potent anti-oxidative agent that has a significant potential to treat neurodegenerative disorders. α-LA is both hydrophilic and hydrophobic in nature. It is widely distributed in plants and animals in cellular membranes and in the cytosol, which is responsible for LA's action in both the cytosol and plasma membrane. A systematic literature review of Bentham, Scopus, PubMed, Medline, and EMBASE (Elsevier) databases was carried out to understand the Nature and mechanistic interventions of the α-Lipoic acid for central nervous system diseases. Moreover, α-LA readily crosses the blood-brain barrier, which is a significant factor for CNS activities. The mechanisms of α-LA reduction are highly tissue-specific. α-LA produces its neuroprotective effect by inhibiting reactive oxygen species formation and neuronal damage, modulating protein levels, and promoting neurotransmitters and anti-oxidant levels. Hence, the execution of α-LA as a therapeutic ingredient in the therapy of neurodegenerative disorders is promising. Finally, based on evidence, it can be concluded that α-LA can prevent diseases related to the nervous system.

Protective Effects of Alpha Lipoic Acid Against Arsenic Induced Oxidative Stress in Isolated Rat Liver Mitochondria

Arsenic as a heavy metal and toxic pollutant has been established that has the hepatotoxic effect in animal and human models. Previous studies showed that mitochondria as the first target of arsenic toxicity has a pathogenic role in liver diseases. This study investigated alpha lipoic acid (ALA) as an antioxidant could ameliorate against liver toxicity induced by arsenic in rat mitochondria. First, mitochondria were isolated by the liver tissue centrifugation protocol. Then, isolated mitochondria were exposed with different concentrations of ALA and arsenic in different times for receiving the optimum dose and time. Finally, mitochondria were pretreated with the optimum concentrations and times of ALA and then treated with optimum concentration and time of arsenic (160 μg/ml; 30 min). The results demonstrated a significant decrease in total mitochondrial dehydrogenase activity (mitochondrial complex II) by 3, 4 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay after arsenic exposure. Mitochondria treated with arsenic also showed a significant increase in ROS generation, MMP, and MDA levels. The activity of mitochondrial catalase and mitochondrial GSH significantly decreased after exposure of mitochondria with arsenic. Pretreatment of mitochondria with ALA improved mitochondrial complex II activity; decreased mitochondrial membrane damage, MDA, and ROS amounts; and ameliorated mitochondrial GSH levels and mitochondrial catalase activity. These findings revealed that arsenic induced oxidative stress and mitochondria dysfunction, while ALA improved mitochondrial function through increasing of antioxidant defense or preserving of complex II, but suggested that ALA could prevent from mitochondria dysfunction.

The Effect of Subacute Poisoning with Deltamethrin on the Levels of Interleukin 1ß and Tumour Necrosis Factor Α in the Livers and Kidneys of Mice

Deltamethrin is a type II pyrethroid. Deltamethrin’s action is characterised by nephrotoxicity, hepatotoxicity and immunotoxicity.

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of poisoning with deltamethrin on the levels of interleukin1ß and TNFα in the livers and kidneys of mice.

A total of 24 female mice were divided into 3 groups of 8:

- controls,

- receiving deltamethrin i.p. at the dose of 41.5 mg/kg for 28 days

- receiving deltamethrin i.p. at the dose of 8.3 mg/kg for 28 days.

On day 29 the animals were euthanised, livers and kidneys were obtained, homogenised and centrifuged. The supernatant was used for measuring IL-1ß and TNFα concentration with ELISA tests. The results were analysed with Statsoft Statistica.

The interleukin 1ß concentrations were significantly higher in the kidneys (18.30±16.85) of mice exposed to the higher dose of deltamethrin than in the controls (8.15±4.66) (p<0.05). In the livers of mice receiving 41.5mg/kg deltamethrin it was 203±71.63 vs 46.77±34.79 (p<0.05). In the livers of animals receiving the lower dose it was higher than in the control group (96.51±24.73) (p<0.05). The TNF α was elevated in the kidneys of mice exposed to the higher dose of deltamethrin (6.56±3.26 vs 2.89±1.57)(p<0.05).

Conclusion: Deltamethrin produces a significant increase of interleukin 1ß in the livers and kidneys of mice and so the cytokine seems to be a good marker of hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity in the course of subacute poisoning.

N-Acetylcysteine Alleviated the Deltamethrin-Induced Oxidative Cascade and Apoptosis in Liver and Kidney Tissues

Deltamethrin (DLM) is a synthetic pyrethroid with anti-acaricide and insecticidal properties. It is commonly used in agriculture and veterinary medicine. Humans and animals are exposed to DLM through the ingestion of polluted food and water, resulting in severe health issues. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a prodrug of L-cysteine, the precursor to glutathione. It can restore the oxidant-antioxidant balance. Therefore, this research aimed to examine whether NAC may protect broiler chickens against oxidative stress, at the level of biochemical and molecular alterations caused by DLM intoxication. The indicators of liver and kidney injury in the serum of DLM-intoxicated and NAC-treated groups were examined. Furthermore, lipid peroxidation, antioxidant markers, superoxide dismutase activity, and apoptotic gene expressions (caspase-3 and Bcl-2) were investigated. All parameters were significantly altered in the DLM-intoxicated group, suggesting that DLM could induce oxidative damage and apoptosis in hepato-renal tissue. The majority of the changes in the studied parameters were reversed when NAC therapy was used. In conclusion, by virtue of its antioxidant and antiapoptotic properties, NAC enabled the provision of significant protection effects against DLM-induced hepato-renal injury.

Composition of Zingiber officinale Roscoe (Ginger), Soil Properties and Soil Enzyme Activities Grown in Different Concentration of Mineral Fertilizers

Ginger is rich in different chemical compounds such as phenolic compounds, terpenes, polysaccharides, lipids, organic acids, minerals, and vitamins. The present study investigated the effect of mineral fertilizers on the content of mineral elements in the rhizomes of Zingiber officinale Roscoe, soil enzymes activity, and soil properties in Surkhandarya Region, Uzbekistan. To the best of our knowledge, the present study is the first in Uzbekistan to investigate the mineral elements of ginger rhizome inhabiting Termez district, Surkhandarya region. A Field experiment was conducted at the Surkhandarya experimental station research Institute. Four treatments have been studied (Control with no fertilizers (T-1), N75P50K50 kg/ha (T-2), N125P100K100 kg/ha (T-3) and N100P75K75 + B3Zn6Fe6 kg/ha (T-4)). Results showed that T-4 treatment significantly increased ginger rhizome K, Ca, P, Mg, Fe, Na, Mn, Zn, Si, Li, and V content as compared to all other treatments and control. T-3 treatment significantly increased Mo, Ga, and Ag content in comparison to other treatments. Soil enzymes showed a significant increase for all treatments against control, while T-4 treatment has recorded the highest enzyme activity in comparison to all other treatments in urease, invertase, and catalase content. Soil chemical properties have significantly changed for all treatments against the non-cultivated soil and the zero fertilizers plantation with variation among different treatments. Results showed that ginger root is rich in minerals and can be used as a great potential for nutritional supplements and soil enrichment. This study suggest that combination of macro-microelements have the potential to increase the content of mineral elements in the rhizomes of ginger in field conditions.

Inflammatory Response and Oxidative Stress as Mechanism of Reducing Hyperuricemia of Gardenia jasminoides-Poria cocos with Network Pharmacology

Hyperuricemia (HUA) is a metabolic disease, closely related to oxidative stress and inflammatory responses, caused by reduced excretion or increased production of uric acid. However, the existing therapeutic drugs have many side effects. It is imperative to find a drug or an alternative medicine to effectively control HUA. It was reported that Gardenia jasminoides and Poria cocos could reduce the level of uric acid in hyperuricemic rats through the inhibition of xanthine oxidase (XOD) activity. But there were few studies on its mechanism. Therefore, the effective ingredients in G. jasminoides and P. cocoa extracts (GPE), the active target sites, and the further potential mechanisms were studied by LC-/MS/MS, molecular docking, and network pharmacology, combined with the validation of animal experiments. These results proved that GPE could significantly improve HUA induced by potassium oxazine with the characteristics of multicomponent, multitarget, and multichannel overall regulation. In general, GPE could reduce the level of uric acid and alleviate liver and kidney injury caused by inflammatory response and oxidative stress. The mechanism might be related to the TNF-α and IL-7 signaling pathway.

Effect of Low-Dose Gamma Radiation and Lipoic Acid on High- Radiation-Dose Induced Rat Brain Injuries

Aim

This work aims to investigate the possible radio-adaptive mechanisms induced by low-dose (LD) whole-body γ-irradiation alone or combined with alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) administration in modulating high-dose (HD) head irradiation–induced brain injury in rats.

Materials and Methods

Rats were irradiated with LD (.25 Gy) 24 hours prior HD (20 Gy), and subjected to ALA (100 mg/kg/day) 5 minutes after HD and continued for 10 days. At the end of the experiment, animals were sacrificed and brain samples were dissected for biochemical and histopathological examinations.

Results

HD irradiation-induced brain injury as manifested by elevation of oxidative stress, DNA damage, apoptotic, and inflammatory markers in brain tissue. Histological examination of brain sections showed marked alterations. However, LD alone or combined with ALA ameliorated the changes induced by HD.

Conclusion

Under the present experimental conditions, LD whole-body irradiation exhibited neuroprotective activity against detrimental effects of a subsequent HD head irradiation. This effect might be due to the adaptive response induced by LD that activated the anti-oxidative, anti-apoptotic, and anti-inflammatory mechanisms in the affected animals making them able to cope with the subsequent high-dose exposure. However, the combined LD exposure and ALA supplementation produced a further modulating effect in the HD-irradiated rats.

Protective effects of rutin against deltamethrin-induced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity in rats via regulation of oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis

Deltamethrin is a type-II pyrethroid synthetic insecticide that is extensively used for controlling mosquitoes, flies, pests, and insects worldwide. This study was carried out to evaluate the likelihood protective effects of rutin, a natural antioxidant, against deltamethrin-induced liver and kidney toxicities in rats. Hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity were evaluated after the rats were treated orally with deltamethrin (1.28 mg/kg b.w.) alone or with rutin (25 and 50 mg/kg b.w.) for 30 days. Deltamethrin administration caused an increase in lipid peroxidation level and a decrease in activities of SOD, CAT, GPx, and GSH levels in the both tissues. Deltamethrin also increased serum ALT, AST, ALP, urea, and creatinine levels, while reduced nephrine levels in rats. In addition, deltamethrin increased the activation of inflammatory and apoptotic pathways by decreasing Bcl-2 and increasing TNF-α, NF-κB, IL-1β, p38α MAPK, COX-2, iNOS, beclin-1, Bax, and caspase-3 protein levels and/or activities. Furthermore, deltamethrin increased mRNA expression levels of PARP-1, VEGF, and immunohistochemical expressions of c-fos in the tissues. Rutin treatment significantly improved all examined parameters and restored the liver and kidney histopathological and immunohistochemical alterations. These findings demonstrate that rutin could be used to ameliorate hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity associated with oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in deltamethrin-induced rats.

Bioremediation role of Spirulina platensis against deltamethrin-mediated toxicity and its chemical residues in chicken meat

Deltamethrin (DM) is a synthetic pyrethroid insecticide commonly used in veterinary and agriculture. However, both animal and human exposure are associated with hepatorenal toxicity. Our experimental goal was to assess the protective effects of Spirulina platensis (SP) against DM-induced hepatorenal injury, growth performance, meat chemical composition, and its residues in meat, liver, and skin of broiler chickens. Sixty 1-day-old Cobb broiler chicks were assigned to 4 experimental groups; each was divided into 3 replicates with five chicks each; the 1st group received basal diet alone (control), 2nd group supplemented with SP 20 g/kg diet, 3rd group supplemented with DM 300 mg/kg diet, and 4th group supplemented with DM and SP diet. All groups have received the treatment for 35 days. DM, decreased body weight, weight gain, and increased feed conversion rate. DM showed a significant increase in ALT, AST, urea, creatinine, and MDA and a significant decrease in SOD, and GSH levels. Also, SP significantly reduced DM levels in meat, skin, and liver with a reduction 63.01, 63.00, and 62.90 %, respectively. The DM intoxicated group showed a significant decrease in protein and a marked increase in fat, cholesterol, and triglycerides when compared to the control group. Histopathological changes were also recorded. Dietary SP improved these parameters. Dietary inclusion of SP can be recommended due to the protective effects on DM-induced toxicity in broiler chickens.

Protective effects of natural products against drug-induced nephrotoxicity: A review in recent years

Drug-induced nephrotoxicity (DIN) is a major cause of kidney damage and is associated with high mortality and morbidity, which limits the clinical use of certain therapeutic or diagnostic agents, such as antineoplastic drugs, antibiotics, immunosuppressive agents, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and contrast agents. However, in recent years, a number of studies have shown that many natural products (NPs), including phytochemicals, various plants extracts, herbal formulas, and NPs derived from animals, confer protective effects against DIN through multi-targeting therapeutic mechanisms, such as inhibition of oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, fibrosis, and necroptosis, regulation of autophagy, maintenance of cell polarity, etc., by regulating multiple signaling pathways and novel molecular targets. In this review, we summarize and discuss the protective effects and mechanisms underlying the action of NPs against DIN found in recent years, which will contribute to the development of promising renal protective agents.

Antioxidant Effects of Eugenol on Oxidative Stress Induced by Hydrogen Peroxide in Islets of Langerhans Isolated from Male Mouse

BACKGROUND

The antioxidant system in islets of Langerhans is weak, which can lead to diabetes. Meanwhile, the main component of cloves that produce antioxidant effects is eugenol. Accordingly, the present study was conducted to investigate the antioxidant effect of eugenol on oxidative stress induced by hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) in islets of Langerhans isolated from the male mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this experimental study, adult Naval Medical Research Institute (NMRI) mice (20-25 g) were prepared. The collagenase digestion method was used for dissecting the islets of Langerhans. H₂O₂ 50 μM was administered for 30 min to induce oxidative stress, with 50, 100, and 200 μM of eugenol employed for 2 hours before the administration of H₂O₂. The experimental groups were divided into five groups: (control, H₂O₂, and H₂O₂+eugenol 50, 100, and 200 μM). Finally, the islet's lipid peroxidation and antioxidants levels were measured by the ELISA assay method.

RESULTS

Malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) increased in all groups when compared to the control (P < 0.05). MDA diminished in H₂O₂+eugenol 50, 100, and 200 μM (P < 0.01) groups versus the H₂O₂. TAC was elevated when eugenol 50, 100, and 200 μM was administered in oxidative stress-induced islets (P < 0.001). Also, CAT increased in the H₂O₂+eugenol 50 (P < 0.05) group in comparison with the H₂O₂ group.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, H₂O₂ induced oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation in the islets, and administration of eugenol recovered these alterations by raising the level of TAC and CAT, while reducing MDA as a lipid peroxidation biomarker.

Does alpha-lipoic acid-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers improve post-thawed sperm quality and ameliorate apoptosis-related genes of rooster sperm?

Oxidative stress could be prevented by antioxidant-loaded nanoparticles. The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of 10 (A10), 20 (A20), 30 (A30), 40 (A40), and 50 (A50) μM alpha-lipoic acid and alpha-lipoic acid nanostructured lipid carriers (ALN) at 10 (ALN10), 20 (ALN20), 30 (ALN30), 40 (ALN40), and 50 (ALN50) μM on post-thawed sperm quality, fertility, and apoptosis-related genes of rooster sperm. The extender supplemented with ALN30 led to higher total and progressive motility, straight-line velocity, and linearity in comparison to the control group. The ALN30 resulted in higher percentage of mitochondria activity and glutathione peroxidase level compared with control (P < 0.05). The extender supplemented with ALN30 led to lower percentage of apoptotic sperm, when compared with the control. CASPASE 3 expression in ALN30 was lower (P < 0.05) than the other groups. The results showed that BCL-2 mRNA expression of sperm was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in ALN30 compared with the other groups (P < 0.05). Higher percentages of fertility and hatchability rates were observed in ALN30 group. The results indicate that ALN30 could be regarded as a novel potential cryoprotectant for the cryopreservation of rooster semen. Therefore, nanostructured lipid carriers improve not only the active compound (such as alpha-lipoic acid) of biomedical applicability but also the potential for industrial application in sperm cryopreservation.

Therapeutic Effects of the Combination of Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA) and Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) on Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity

Background

Nephrotoxicity of cisplatin has been recognized since its introduction more than 25 years ago. However, despite intense efforts to develop less toxic and equally effective alternatives, cisplatin continues to be widely prescribed. Aim and Objectives. The study is aimed at assessing the possible prophylactic effect of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) and alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) (separately or in combination) on experimentally cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity. Subjects and Methods. An experimental study was performed on adult male albino rats (n = 40), weighing 200–250 g. Rats were randomly divided into 5 groups: group I (normal saline control), group II (cisplatin control), group III (CoQ10 and cisplatin), group IV (ALA and cisplatin), and group V (CoQ10, ALA, and cisplatin). CoQ10 and/or ALA were given as pretreatment for 9 days, followed by cisplatin injection in the 10th day of the study, followed by a short posttreatment course for 3 days. Renal functions, tissue antioxidant activity, and inflammatory markers (tumor necrosis factor, TNF) were estimated along with histopathological study.

Results

Renal function tests and urinary proteins were significantly higher within group II compared with other groups (P value <0.001). Creatinine clearance was significantly higher with combination therapy (group V compared to other groups). Both TNF and malondialdehyde (MDA) were significantly higher within group II whereas GSH content, catalase, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were significantly lower in group II. MDA level was significantly lower when combination therapy was used. Marked renal damage was histologically detected in the cisplatin group, whereas the least renal damage was noticed in the combination group.

Conclusion

The study confirmed the role of antioxidants in preventing nephrotoxicity caused by cisplatin; the prophylactic effect of combined therapy with CoQ10 and ALA is superior to that of monotherapy.

Deltamethrin induces liver fibrosis in quails via activation of the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway

Deltamethrin (DLM) is an important member of the pyrethroid pesticide family, and its widespread use has led to serious environmental and health problems. Exposure to DLM causes pathological changes in the liver of animals and humans and can lead to liver fibrosis. However, the mechanism of DLM-induced liver fibrosis remains unclear. Therefore, to address its potential molecular mechanisms, we used both in vivo and in vitro methods. Quails were treated in vivo by intragastric administration of different concentrations of DLM (0, 15, 30, or 45 mg kg^-1), and the chicken liver cancer cell line LMH was treated in vitro with various doses of DLM (0, 50, 200, or 800 μg mL^-1). We found that DLM treatment in vivo induced liver fibrosis in a dose-dependent manner through the promotion of oxidative stress, activation of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and phosphorylation of Smad2/3. Treatment of LMH cells with different concentrations of DLM similarly induced oxidative stress and also decreased cell viability. Collectively, our study demonstrates that DLM-induced liver fibrosis in quails occurs via activation of the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway.

Sub-chronic exposure to Kalach 360 SL-induced damage in rats' liver and hematological system

We investigated the effects of sub-chronic exposure to Kalach 360 SL (KL), glyphosate-based herbicide used in Tunisia, on liver and hematological system in different groups of female rats. Group 1 was used as a control, while animals of groups 2 and 3 received orally 0.07 mL and 0.175 mL of KL, respectively (126 and 315 mg of glyphosate/kg), for 60 days. As a result, the KL-exposed groups exhibited hypochromic microcytic anemia, systemic inflammation, cytolysis, decrease in hepatic enzyme activity, and cholestasis. Exposure to different doses of KL could induce erythrocyte destruction (hemolysis) in hematopoietic organs (bones). Moreover, lipid peroxidation contents and protein oxidation markers significantly increased in exposed groups, while enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant activities decreased considerably, in both erythrocytes and liver tissues, compared with those in controls. Liver histological studies confirmed the presence of inflammatory reaction with pathology involving the damage or necrosis of hepatocytes, however, without fibrosis remodulation. Thus, KL sub-chronic exposure caused hepatonecrosis, systemic inflammation, and hemolysis.

Activation of PXR, CAR and PPARα by pyrethroid pesticides and the effect of metabolism by rat liver microsomes

In this study, we used reporter gene assays in COS-1 cells to examine the activation of rat pregnane X receptor (PXR), rat constitutive androstane receptor (CAR) and rat peroxisome-proliferator activated receptor (PPAR)α by pyrethroid pesticides, and to understand the effects of metabolic modification on their activities. All eight pyrethroids tested in this study showed rat PXR agonistic activity; deltamethrin was the most potent, followed by cis-permethrin and cypermethrin. However, when the pyrethroids were incubated with rat liver microsomes, their rat PXR activities were decreased to various extents. Cis- and trans-permethrin showed weak rat CAR agonistic activity, while the other pyrethroids were inactive. However, fenvalerate showed dose-dependent inverse agonistic activity toward rat CAR, and this activity was reduced after metabolism. None of the pyrethroids showed rat PPARα agonistic activity, but a metabolite of cis-/trans-permethrin and phenothrin, 3-phenoxybenzoic acid, activated rat PPARα. Since PXR, CAR and PPARα regulate various xenobiotic/endobiotic-metabolizing enzymes, activation of these receptors by pyrethroids may result in endocrine disruption due to changes of hormone-metabolizing activities.

Protective effects of kefir against deltamethrin-induced hepatotoxicity in rats

Deltamethrine (DLM) is a synthetic pyrethroid with broad spectrum activities against acaricides and insects. Widely used for agricultural and veterinary purposes, its human and animal exposure occurs by ingestion of contaminated water and food and leads to serious health problems. Kefir is fermented milk with numerous health favors counting restorative properties of bacterial flora, immune system stimulation, cholesterol reduction, as well as anti-mutagenic and anti-tumor properties. The present study was undertaken to examine the hepatoprotective and antioxidant potential of kefir against DLM toxicity in male Wistar albino rats. DLM-treated animals revealed a significant increase in serum biochemical parameters as well as hepatic protein and lipid oxidations but caused an inhibition in antioxidant enzymes. Additionally, we have observed an increase in hepatocyte DNA damages. This toxic effect was confirmed by histological study. Kefir administration normalized the elevated serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), total bilirubin (T bilirubin), and cholesterol. It also reduced DLM-induced protein carbonyl (PC) and malondialdehyde (MDA) formations. Furthermore, Kefir treatment restored catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities. The co-treatment as well as the pre-treatment by kefir showed an improvement of oxidative status as well as suppressed inflammation and DNA damages. However, the pre-treatment seems to be the most efficient. Therefore, it could be concluded that kefir is a natural product able to protect against the hepatotoxic effects of DLM by its free radical-scavenging and potent antioxidant activity.

Permethrin and ivermectin modulate lipid metabolism in steatosis-induced HepG2 hepatocyte

Recent studies have reported the positive association between exposure to insecticides and increased risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes, which are closely associated with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). However, it is not known if insecticide exposure can contribute to NAFLD. Thus, the goal of the current study was to determine if insecticide exposures can exacerbate the physiological conditions of NAFLD by modulating hepatic lipid metabolism. The effects of 12 insecticides on triglycerides (TG) accumulation were tested using palmitic acid (PA)-induced HepG2 hepatoma steatosis model. Results showed that among tested insecticides, permethrin and ivermectin significant interacted with palmitic acid to potentiate (permethrin) or decrease (ivermectin) TG accumulation. Further study showed that permethrin significantly promoted fatty acid synthesis, while suppressed lipid oxidation-related genes only under steatosis conditions. In comparison, ivermectin inhibited lipogenesis-related genes and promoted farnesoid X receptor, which upregulates fatty acid oxidation. Results in this study suggested that hepatic lipid metabolism may be more susceptible to insecticide exposure in the presence of excessive fatty acids, which can be associated with the development of NAFLD.

Deltamethrin toxicity: A review of oxidative stress and metabolism

Deltamethrin is widely used worldwide due to its valuable insecticidal activity against pests and parasites. Increasing evidence has shown that deltamethrin causes varying degrees of toxicity. Moreover, oxidative stress and metabolism are highly correlated with toxicity. For the first time, this review systematically summarizes the deltamethrin toxicity mechanism from the perspective of oxidative stress, including deltamethrin-mediated oxidative damage, antioxidant status, oxidative signaling pathways and modulatory effects of antagonists, synergists and placebos on oxidative stress. Further, deltamethrin metabolism, including metabolites, metabolic enzymes and pathways and deltamethrin metabolite toxicity are discussed. This review will shed new light on deltamethrin toxicity mechanisms and provide effective strategies to ensure pest control and prevention of human and animal poisoning.

Antioxidant activities of Moringa oleifera leaf extract against pendimethalin-induced oxidative stress and genotoxicity in Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus (L.)

To assess the ameliorative effects of Moringa oleifera (MO) leaf extract on haematological and biochemical changes, liver DNA damage and oxidative stress biomarkers in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) exposed to a sublethal concentration (0.52 mg/l) of pendimethalin (PM). Tilapia fish were allocated into four equal groups in tri-replicates as follows: first group was the control group, second group was treated with MO (20 ml/30 l water), third group was exposed to 0.52 mg PM/l and fourth group was exposed to 0.52 mg PM/l and treated with MO leaf extract (20 ml/30 l water) for 28 days. At the end of this period, blood and liver tissue samples were collected and haematological and biochemical changes, hepatic DNA fragmentation and oxidative stress biomarkers were analysed. Pendimethalin caused significant reduction in haematological profile [White blood cells (WBCs) and red blood cells (RBCs) counts, haemoglobin (Hb) concentration and haematocrit (Ht) level]; meanwhile, serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), creatinine, uric acid, glucose, cortisol, cholesterol and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were significantly increased. On the other hand, serum total protein, albumin, globulin and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) were decreased. Significant reduction in hepatic superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) levels and marked increments of hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA) and DNA fragmentation were observed in PM-exposed fish compared to the control group. The addition of Moringa oleifera leaf extract into the water could overcome the negative impacts of pendimethalin and normalise the examined parameters nearly to the control values. Moringa oleifera was used for the first time to protect tilapia fish against PM-induced toxicity. The present study revealed that Moringa oleifera has potent antioxidant and antigenotoxic actions against pendimethalin toxicity.

Alpha lipoic acid protects against chlorpyrifos-induced toxicity in Wistar rats via modulating the apoptotic pathway

The chronic exposure to chlorpyrifos (CPF) pesticide induces several human disorders including hepatotoxicity. Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is a natural antioxidant compound found in plants and animals. The present study aimed to investigate the possible protective effect of ALA against CPF-induced hepatotoxicity and the possible underlying molecular mechanism. Thirty-two male Wistar rats were divided into: Normal rats received only vehicle; ALA group received ALA (10 mg/kg, i.p.); CPF group received CPF (18 mg/kg, s.c.) and CPF-ALA group received CPF (18 mg/kg, s.c.) once daily for 14 days. The present results demonstrated that administration of ALA significantly improved liver functions (p < 0.05) and limited the histopathological lesions induced by CPF in liver tissues. Furthermore, ALA decreased hepatic malondialdehyde contents while increased the glutathione peroxidase, catalase, superoxide dismutase and acetylcholinesterase activities. Interestingly, ALA showed significant antiapoptotic effects through downregulation of Bax and Caspase-3 expression levels. In conclusion, ALA possess protective effects against CPF-induced liver injury through attenuation of apoptosis and oxidative stress.

Protective effects of Asparagus officinalis extract against Bisphenol A- induced toxicity in Wistar rats

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1 Bisphenol A treatment lead to histopathologic changes in liver and kidney tissues.

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2- Bisphenol A decreased the antioxidant capacities in rats.

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3- Asparagus officinalis alleviate the extent of oxidative status induced by BPA.

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3- Asparagus officinalis decreases the pathological change of liver and kidney caused by BPA.

Asparagus officinalis is an herbal medicine with remarkable antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antihepatotoxic properties. The present study aimed to investigate whether Bisphenol A (BPA) could induce histopathological changes and oxidative stress in the liver and kidney tissues of male rats. In addition, we evaluated whether the co-administration of the Asparagus officinalis extract (AOE) could prevent the possible damages. In total, 40 adult male Wistar rats with the mean weight of 200 ± 20 grams were divided into five groups. Control subjects were placed in the first group, while group two was the vehicle (5 ml/kg bwt/day). Subjects in group three were administered with 400 mg/kg of AOE (bwt/day), group four received 10 mg/kg of BPA (bwt/day) dissolved in 5 ml/kg of olive oil, and group five received oral BPA and AOE daily for eight weeks. After the experiments, the blood, liver, and kidneys of the animals were collected and examined. Biochemical results showed a significant elevation in the levels of liver and kidney biomarkers in the BPA group (P ≤ 0.05). Moreover, malondialdehyde was observed to increase, while thiol protein and total antioxidant capacity decreased. Histopathological results of the BPA group indicated dilated and congested central and portal veins and inflammatory areas in the liver. In addition, renal test results showed casts in the urinary tubules and acute tubular necrosis. According to the results, the co-administration of AOE and BPA could increase the total antioxidative capability, thereby improving the function and structure of the liver and kidney tissues. Therefore, AOE is a potential protective agent against oxidative stress, liver, and kidney damage.

New insights on the modulatory roles of metformin or alpha-lipoic acid versus their combination in dextran sulfate sodium-induced chronic colitis in rats

BACKGROUND

Dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis is the most widely used model that resembles ulcerative colitis (UC) in human with challenging chronic mechanistic oxidative stress-inflammatory/immunological cascades. In models of acute colitis, reduction of oxidative stress and inflammatory burdens beside manipulation of many transcriptional factors were achieved by metformin or alpha-lipoic acid (α-LA). Currently, in vivo DSS-induced chronic colitis was conducted and the possible therapeutic roles of metformin and/or α-LA were explored.

METHODS

Chronic UC was induced by adding 5% DSS orally in drinking water for 7days followed by 3% DSS in drinking water for 14days in adult male albino Wistar rats. Intraperitoneal administration of α-LA (25mg/kg, twice/day) and/or metformin (100mg/kg/day) were set at day 7 of DSS administration and continued for 14days. Body weights, survival rates, disease activity index (DAI), colonic oxidative stress markers, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α levels, colonic nuclear factor-kappa-B (NF-κB) immunohistochemical expression, and the colonic histopathological changes were observed.

RESULTS

Metformin or/and α-LA attenuated the severity of the DSS-induced colitis through improving the reductions in body weights, the DAI, the colonic oxidative stress markers, TNF-α, and NF-κB levels, and the morphological mucosal damage scores. Significant synergetic therapeutic effects were observed with combined therapeutic regimens.

CONCLUSION

Therapeutically, metformin and α-LA could be administered in chronic colitis. The combination of currently used pharmaceutics with natural and synthetic potent antioxidant compounds will become a therapeutic strategy of choice for UC to improve the quality of life if sufficient clinical trials are available.

Cis-bifenthrin causes immunotoxicity in murine macrophages

Synthetic pyrethroids (SPs) are commonly used insecticides that have been detected in mammals, including humans, indicating a potential threat to human health. Bifenthrin (BF), as well as other pyrethroids, has been shown to possess neurotoxic, reproductive, hepatotoxic and nephrotoxic potential in mammals. However, studies regarding the immunotoxicity of BF and its mechanism are limited. In this study, we aim to exam the immunotoxicity of cis-BF on the murine macrophage cell line, RAW 264.7. MTT assay results demonstrated that cis-BF exposure induced apoptosis in RAW 264.7 cells in a concentration-dependent manner. We found that the expression of p53 and caspase-3 was up-regulated, while the expression of Bcl-2 was down-regulated during cis-BF-induced apoptosis. In addition, we also found that cis-BF exposure caused oxidative stress in RAW 264.7 cells in a dose-dependent manner. Interestingly, cis-BF exposure was found to inhibit the increase in transcription levels of IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α responding to LPS stimulation. We also found that the induced increase in IFN-β mRNA levels upon Sendai virus infection was blocked with cis-BF exposure. Finally, we found that cis-BF exposure increased ROS levels and dysregulated mRNA levels of oxidative stress-related genes in RAW 264.7 cells. The present study elucidates the immunotoxicity effect of cis-BF on macrophages and its possible underlying mechanism. The results from this study support the necessity to evaluate immune dysfunction in the risk assessment of cis-BF exposure.

Nephroprotective efficacy of ceftriaxone against cisplatin-induced subchronic renal fibrosis in rats

Cisplatin, or cis-diamminedichloridoplatinum(II), (CDDP) is a broad-spectrum antineoplastic chemotherapeutic agent with a potent efficacy against several malignancies. Its main clinical antineoplastic therapy-limiting adverse effect is nephrotoxicity, where the developments of effective nephroprotectors are needed. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the nephroprotective and antifibrotic potential of ceftriaxone (CTX) against CDDP-induced toxicity. Male Wister rats were treated with saline or CTX (100 or 200 mg kg^-1 bw) an hour before CDDP administration (1 mg kg^-1 bw). All the treatments were intraperitoneally administered twice weekly for consecutive 10 weeks. Twenty-four hours after last CDDP dose, blood samples were collected, then the animals were euthanized and their kidneys were isolated for measurements. CDDP significantly increased serum uric acid, urea, and creatinine contents. Toxicopathic changes showed that CDDP induced marked tubulointerstitial damage, overexpressed fibrogenic factors α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), and down expressed cellular proliferating biomarker bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU). CTX pretreatment, particularly 200 mg/kg bw, improved the renal function biomarkers; histoarchitecture; and α-SMA, TGF-β1, and BrdU expressions. It could be concluded that CTX is endowed with antifibrotic properties and could be, therefore, used as adjuvant therapy to improve CDDP-induced nephrotoxicity. Further clinical researches are necessary to evaluate whether CTX may exhibit a new therapeutic choice for treating renal fibrotic diseases.

Synergistic ameliorative effects of sesame oil and alpha-lipoic acid against subacute diazinon toxicity in rats: hematological, biochemical, and antioxidant studies

Diazinon (DZN) is a common organophosphorus insecticide extensively used for agriculture and veterinary purposes. DZN toxicity is not limited to insects; it also induces harmful effects in mammals and birds. Our experiment evaluated the protective and antioxidant potential of sesame oil (SO) and (or) alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) against DZN toxicity in male Wistar albino rats. DZN-treated animals exhibited macrocytic hypochromic anemia and significant increases in serum biochemical parameters related to liver injury, including aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), γ-glutamyl transferase (γGT), cholesterol, and triglycerides. They also had elevated levels of markers related to cardiac injury, such as lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and creatine phosphokinase (CPK), and increased biomarkers of renal injury, urea and creatinine. DZN also increased hepatic, renal, and cardiac lipid peroxidation and decreased antioxidant biomarker levels. SO and (or) ALA supplementation ameliorated the deleterious effects of DZN intoxication. Treatment improved hematology and serum parameters, enhanced endogenous antioxidant status, and reduced lipid peroxidation. Importantly, they exerted synergistic hepatoprotective, nephroprotective, and cardioprotective effects. Our findings demonstrate that SO and (or) ALA supplementation can alleviate the toxic effects of DZN via their potent antioxidant and free radical-scavenging activities.

Protective Effects of Diallyl Sulfide and Curcumin Separately against Thallium-Induced Toxicity in Rats

Thallium acetate (TI) is a cumulative poison intimately accompanied by an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation that represents an important risk factor for tissue injury and malfunction. This study aims to determine the possible hepatoprotective and antioxidant effects of diallyl sulfide (DAS) from garlic and curcumin from turmeric against TI-induced liver injury and oxidative stress (OS) in rats. This in vivo animal study divided rats into six groups of 8 rats per group. The first group received saline and served as the control group. The second and third groups received DAS or curcumin only at a dose of 200 mg/kg. The fourth group received TI at a dose of 6.4 mg/kg for 5 consecutive days. The fifth and sixth groups received DAS or curcumin orally 1 hour before TI intoxication at the same dose as the second and third groups. Liver integrity serum enzymes aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and γ-glutamyltransferase (γ-GT) were evaluated. Serum and liver tissue homogenate lipid peroxidation and OS biomarkers were measured. The data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA followed by Duncan's multiple range test for post hoc analysis using SPSS version 16. TI induced marked oxidative liver damage as shown by significantly (P≤0.05) elevated serum AST, ALT, ALP, LDH and γ-GT levels. There were significant (P≤0.05) increases in serum and hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA) and serum nitric oxide (NO) as well as decreased hepatic glutathione (GSH) and catalase (CAT) activities. There were significantly (P≤0.05) less serum and hepatic superoxide dismutase (SOD) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC). Pre-treatment with DAS or curcumin ameliorated the changes in most studied biochemical parameters. DAS and curcumin effectively reduced TI-induced liver toxicity.

Protective role of polyphenols from Bauhinia hookeri against carbon tetrachloride-induced hepato- and nephrotoxicity in mice

The hepatoprotective and nephroprotective activity of a polyphenol-rich fraction (BHPF) obtained from Bauhinia hookeri was investigated against CCl4-induced acute hepatorenal toxicity in mice. BHPF was administered (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg/day) for 5 days, then CCl4 was administered. BHPF pretreatment significantly (p < 0.001) inhibited the CCl4-induced increase in ALT, AST, ALP, LDH, total bilirubin, cholesterol, creatinine, uric acid, urea and malondialdehyde in a dose-dependent manner. In contrast, BHPF pretreatment markedly increased the contents of glutathione and superoxide dismutase in the liver and kidney tissues, indicating the strong in vivo antioxidant activity of BHPF. Pretreatment with BHPF preserved the hepatic architecture and conferred marked protection against necrosis and ballooning degeneration. Pretreatment with BHPF reduced the inflammatory cell aggregation and degenerative changes in the lining epithelium of the kidney tubules. It can be concluded that BHPF has a remarkable hepato- and nephroprotective activity by enhancing the antioxidant defense status, reducing lipid peroxidation and protecting against the histopathological changes induced by CCl4 in the liver and kidney tissues.

Effect of alpha-lipoic acid on boar spermatozoa quality during freezing–thawing

Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is known to be a natural antioxidant. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the cryoprotective effect of ALA on the motility of boar spermatozoa and its antioxidant effect on boar spermatozoa during freezing–thawing. Different concentrations (2.0, 4.0, 6.0, 8.0 or 10.0 mg/ml) of ALA were added to the extender used to freeze boar semen, and the effects on the quality and endogenous antioxidant enzyme activities of frozen–thawed spermatozoa were assessed. The results indicated that the addition of ALA to the extender resulted in a higher percentage of motile spermatozoa post-thaw (P < 0.05). The activities of superoxide dismutase, lactate dehydrogenase, glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase and catalase improved after adding ALA to the extender (P < 0.05). Artificial insemination results showed that pregnancy rate and litter size were significantly higher at 6.0 mg/ml in the ALA group than in the control group (P < 0.05). In conclusion, ALA conferred a cryoprotective capacity to the extender used for boar semen during the process of freezing–thawing, and the optimal concentration of ALA for the frozen extender was 6.0 mg/ml.

Protective effects of alpha lipoic acid on high glucose-induced neurotoxicity in PC12 cells

Hyperglycemia plays an important role in the development of diabetic neuropathy. In this study, we investigated the protective effects of alpha lipoic acid (ALA) against high glucose-induced neurotoxicity in PC12 cells as a suitable in vitro model for studying neuronal functions. PC12 cells were treated with high glucose (25 mg/ml for 24 h) in the absence and presence of ALA (100 μM for 24 h). The viability of PC12 cells was estimated by using MTT assay. The expression of pro- apoptotic Bax, anti- apoptotic Bcl-2 and caspase 3 protein were evaluated by western blotting. The reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were determined with 2,7-dichlorodihydro- fluorescein diacetate (H2DCFDA). Biochemical markers of oxidative stress were assessed by using the total antioxidant power (TAP), lipid peroxidation (LPO), ADP/ATP ratio, activity of antioxidant enzymes catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Pretreatment of PC12 cells with ALA, significantly improved high glucose-induced toxicity by increasing activity of antioxidant enzymes CAT and SOD in the PC12 cell. It also increased the concentrations of TAP. An elevated level of cell death and ROS in high glucose conditions, diminished with ALA treatment. Over expression of Bax and caspase 3 protein, elevation of ADP/ATP ratio and LPO level in high glucose- treated PC12 cells, were significantly reduced by ALA. It was concluded that ALA attenuates neurotoxicity induced by high glucose in PC12 cells.

Influence of green tea extract on oxidative damage and apoptosis induced by deltamethrin in rat brain

In the present study, we investigated the protective effect of an aqueous extract of green tea leaves (GTE) against neurotoxicity and oxidative damage induced by deltamethrin (DM) in male rats. Four different groups of rats were used: the 1st group was the vehicle treated control group, the 2nd group received DM (0.6 mg/kg BW), the 3rd group received DM plus GTE, and the 4th received GTE alone (25 mg/kg BW). The brain tissues were collected at the end of the experimental regimen for subsequent investigation. Rats that were given DM had a highly significant elevation in MDA content, nitric oxide concentration, DNA fragmentation and expression level of apoptotic genes, TP53 and COX2. Additionally, a significant reduction in the total antioxidant capacity in the second group was detected. The findings for the 3rd group highlight the efficacy of GTE as a neuro-protectant in DM-induced neurotoxicity through improving the oxidative status and DNA fragmentation as well as suppressing the expression of the TP53 and COX2 genes. In conclusion, GTE, at a concentration of 25mg/kg/day, protected against DM-induced neurotoxicity through its antioxidant and antiapoptotic influence; therefore, it can be used as a protective natural product against DM-induced neurotoxicity.

Antagonistic activity of dietary allicin against deltamethrin-induced oxidative damage in freshwater Nile tilapia; Oreochromis niloticus

Allicin, the main biologically active component of garlic clove extracts, has been evaluated for its' efficacy in preventing deltamethrin-induced oxidative damage in Nile tilapia; Oreochromis niloticus. Fish were fed on 2 different doses of 0.5 g and 1 g of allicin/kg diet for 28 days. Serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), cholesterol, urea, uric acid, creatinine, total protein, albumin and globulin were estimated. Moreover, the level of malonaldehyde (MDA) was analyzed as a lipid peroxidation marker. In addition, reduced glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) were analyzed as antioxidant biomarkers in liver, kidney and gills. Results show that deltamethrin subacute intoxication (1.46 µg/L for 28 days) increased serum AST, ALT, ALP, cholesterol, urea, uric acid, creatinine and tissue MDA. At the same time, serum total protein and albumin as well as tissue level of GSH, GSH-Px, SOD and CAT were reduced. Allicin supplemented diets enhanced all the altered serum biochemical parameters as well as tissues' lipid peroxidation and antioxidant biomarkers in a dose-dependent manner. The results suggest that feeding allicin can ameliorate deltamethrin-induced oxidative stress and might have some therapeutic properties to protect Nile tilapia on subacute deltamethrin toxicity.

Synergistic protective role of mirazid (Commiphora molmol) and ascorbic acid against tilmicosin-induced cardiotoxicity in mice

Tilmicosin (TIL) is a long-acting macrolide antibiotic approved for the treatment of cattle with Bovine Respiratory Disease. However, overdose of TIL has been reported to induce cardiotoxicity. The purpose of our experiment was to evaluate the protective effects of Commiphora molmol (mirazid (MRZ); myrrh) and (or) ascorbic acid (AA) against TIL-induced cardiotoxicity in mice. MRZ and AA were orally administered using stomach gavage, either alone or in combination for 5 consecutive days, followed with a single TIL overdose. TIL overdose induced a significant increase in serum levels of cardiac damage biomarkers (AST, LDH, CK, CK-MB, and cTnT), as well as cardiac lipid peroxidation, but cardiac levels of antioxidant biomarkers (GSH, SOD, CAT, and TAC) were decreased. Both MRZ and AA tended to normalize the elevated serum levels of cardiac injury biomarkers. Furthermore, MRZ and AA reduced TIL-induced lipid peroxidation and oxidative stress parameters. MRZ and AA combined produced a synergistic cardioprotective effect. We conclude that myrrh and (or) vitamin C administration minimizes the toxic effects of TIL through their free-radical-scavenging and potent antioxidant activities.