In vivo induction of hepatocellular carcinoma by diethylnitrosoamine and pharmacological intervention in Balb C mice using Bergenia ciliata extracts

Assessment of growth, reproduction, and vermi-remediation potentials of Eisenia fetida on heavy metal exposure

Heavy metal pollution is a significant environmental concern with detrimental effects on ecosystems and human health, and traditional remediation methods may be costly, energy-intensive, or have limited effectiveness. The current study aims were to investigate the impact of heavy metal toxicity in Eisenia fetida, the growth, reproductive outcomes, and their role in soil remediation. Various concentrations (ranging from 0 to 640 mg per kg of soil) of each heavy metal were incorporated into artificially prepared soil, and vermi-remediation was conducted over a period of 60 days. The study examined the effects of heavy metals on the growth and reproductive capabilities of E. fetida, as well as their impact on the organism through techniques such as FTIR, histology, and comet assay. Atomic absorption spectrometry demonstrated a significant (P < 0.000) reduction in heavy metal concentrations in the soil as a result of E. fetida activity. The order of heavy metal accumulation by E. fetida was found to be Cr > Cd > Pb. Histological analysis revealed a consistent decline in the organism's body condition with increasing concentrations of heavy metals. However, comet assay results indicated that the tested levels of heavy metals did not induce DNA damage in E. fetida. FTIR analysis revealed various functional group peaks, including N-H and O-H groups, CH2 asymmetric stretching, amide I and amide II, C-H bend, carboxylate group, C-H stretch, C-O stretching of sulfoxides, carbohydrates/polysaccharides, disulfide groups, and nitro compounds, with minor shifts indicating the binding or accumulation of heavy metals within E. fetida. Despite heavy metal exposure, no significant detrimental effects were observed, highlighting the potential of E. fetida for sustainable soil remediation. Vermi-remediation with E. fetida represents a novel, sustainable, and cutting-edge technology in environmental cleanup. This study found that E. fetida can serve as a natural and sustainable method for remediating heavy metal-contaminated soils, promising a healthier future for soil.

Evaluating the biological (antidiabetic) potential of TEM, FTIR, XRD, and UV-spectra observed berberis lyceum conjugated silver nanoparticles

Diabetes is a life-threatening disease that affects different parts of the body including the liver, kidney, and pancreas. The core root of diabetes is mainly linked to oxidative stress produced by reactive oxygen species (ROS). Berberis lyceum Royle (BLR) is the source of natural products. It comprises numerous bioactive compounds having antioxidant activities. In the current investigation, silver nanoparticles from BLR root extract were synthesized, characterized, and assessed for antidiabetic potential. UV spectrophotometry, Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy (FTIR), and x-ray diffraction (XRD) were applied for the characterization of NPs. It was evident from the morphological studies that the synthesized NPs were spherical and the average size was 11.02 nm. Results revealed that BLR-AgNPs showed higher radical scavenging activity as compared to BLR extract. Moreover, BLR-AgNPs displayed superior in vivo and in vitro antidiabetic activity in comparison to BLR extract. Glucose level (116.5 ± 5.1 mg/dL), liver function test (ALAT: 54.038 ± 6.2 IU/L; ASAT: 104.42 ± 13.9 IU/L; ALP: 192.6 ± 2.4 IU/L; bilirubin: 1.434 ± 0.14 mg/dL; total protein: 5.14 ± 0.24 mg/dL), renal function test (urea: 39.6 ± 0.63 mg/dL; uric acid: 21.4 ± 0.94 mg/dL; creatinine: 0.798 ± 0.03 mg/dL; albumin: 4.14 ± 0.2 mg/dL), lipid profile level (cholesterol: 101.62 ± 3 mg/dL; triglyceride: 110.42 ± 7 mg/dL; HDL-C: 29.7 ± 3 mg/dL; LDL-C: 47.056 ± 1 mg/dL; VLDL-C: 22.0 ± 1.3 mg/dL) and hematology (WBCs: 3.82 ± 0.24 103 /μL; RBCs: 4.78 ± 0.42 106 /μL; Hb: 12.6 ± 1.0 g/dL; Hematocrit: 39.4 ± 3.7%; MCV: 65.8 ± 3 fL; platelets: 312 ± 22.4; neutrophils: 34.8 ± 1.87; eosinophils: 3.08 ± 0.43; monocytes: 3.08 ± 0.28; lymphocytes: 75.6 ± 3.77) confirmed the significant antidiabetic potential of BLR-AgNPs. Histopathological examination authenticated that BLR-AgNPs caused a significant revival in the morphology of the liver, kidney, and pancreas. Hence, findings of the study suggested the BLR-AgNPs as a potent antidiabetic agent and could be an appropriate nanomedicine to prevent diabetes in future. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Berberis lyceum extract as a reducing, capping, and stabilization agent for the BLR-AgNPs synthesis Evaluation of α-amylase inhibition, antioxidant, and α-glucosidase inhibition potential Thorough characterization using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Transmission electron microscopy, x-ray diffraction, and UV-VIS spectrophotometer, which is 1st of its kind In-vivo antidiabetic activity evaluation through multiple biomarkers.

Alleviation of doxorubicin adverse effects via loading into various drug-delivery systems: a comparative study

Aim: Drug resistance is still a significant barrier to effective hepatocellular carcinoma therapy. Address the issue of doxorubicin resistance and inter-receptor crosstalk various doxorubicin formulations were investigated. Methods: Hepatocellular carcinoma was carried out using 3-methylechloroanthrene. Animals were then treated with doxorubicin, liposomal doxorubicin, titanium-loaded doxorubicin (TiO2-Dox), lactoferrin-doxorubicin and PEGylated doxorubicin. Biochemical and molecular analyses were assessed. Results: Results have declared a significant alternation of both sodium and potassium concentrations upon 3-methylechloroanthrene administration. Arginase-I and α-L-Fucodinase tumor biomarkers were significantly elevated. C-myc, Hprt-1 and EGFR gene expression were over-expressed. Treatment with the aforementioned treatment regimens significantly modulated all measured parameters. Conclusion: TiO2-Dox, doxorubicin-lactoferrin and PEGylated doxorubicin could be a promising regimen in hepatocellular carcinoma and overcoming the problem of drug resistance.

Phytochemical screening, antimicrobial activity, in vitro and in vivo antioxidant activity of Berberis lycium Royle root bark extract

Abstract Antioxidants are materials that scavenge or remove free radicals from living systems. The oxidation process ends in the production of free radicals. These free radicals are the chief birthplace of cancerous cells. Antioxidizing agents remove free radical intermediates by terminating oxidation processes by being oxidized themselves. On the other hand, infectious diseases affect the world on a large scale. To fight these diseases several synthetic compounds have been used. Plant based medications play important role in this regard. So, the current research aimed to investigate the antibacterial and antioxidant effect of Berberis lycium Royle root bark (BLR) extract. Berberis lycium Royle was used for phytochemical analysis and also as antimicrobial and antioxidant agents. The antimicrobial activity was evaluated by the agar well diffusion method. Current study revealed that BLR was rich in phytochemicals and toxic against tested pathogenic bacteria. BLR showed the highest activity against S. pyogenes (13.3±0.8 mm). The lowest antibacterial activity was reported against E. coli (0±0 mm). In case of minimum inhibitory concentration, it was observed that BLR with 10 μg/mL concentration showed the highest activity while 2.5 μg/mL of BLR showed the least inhibitory activity. The highest In vitro antioxidant activity was recorded as 65% at 100 µg/mL. In case of in vivo antioxidant activity level of CAT, GSH and SOD were decreased while that of MDA was enhanced in groups treated with CCl4 as compared to the control group. BLR extract treatment reversed all these changes significantly. Current results indicate that BLR is effective against bacterial pathogens and also has antioxidant potential.

Efficacy of cow and buffalo dung on vermiremediation and phytoremediation of heavy metals via Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and comet assay

Heavy metal contamination raised significant concerns throughout the world. The current research aimed to evaluate the impact of organic manure (cow dung and buffalo dung) on vermiremediation and phytoremediation and to remediate heavy metals, i.e., cadmium, lead, and chromium, from artificial contaminated soil via both remediation techniques. The impact of livestock manure was evaluated for the first time which could be effective in in situ as well as ex situ studies. Eisenia fetida, Pheretima lignicola, and Spinacia oleracea were used for the remediation process. Results revealed that E. fetida tolerated lead at 280 mg, cadmium at 150 mg, and chromium at 860 mg compared to P. lignicola. The growth and reproduction of E. fetida were efficient in the cow dung manure compared to buffalo dung. Similarly, seed germination and growth of Spinacia oleracea were better in cow dung media compared to buffalo dung. Bioaccumulation factor showed that E. fetida showed a higher accumulation of heavy metals in their tissues when vermi + phytoremediation was jointly applied (9.50 mg/l of Pb, 24.166 of Cd, and 6.695 of Cr). Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy indicated that heavy metals had no drastic effects on E. fetida and S. oleracea. Similarly, comet assay revealed that heavy metals had no genotoxic effect on the E. fetida and S. oleracea. It was concluded that both E. fetida and S. oleracea are appropriate for heavy metals remediation in cow dung manure.

Ameliorative effect of Nigella sativa conjugated silver nanoparticles against chromium-induced hepatotoxicity and renal toxicity in mice

Hexavalent chromium induces oxidative stress in the liver and kidney. Therefore an in vivo study was designed to investigate the modulatory effect of biosynthesized AgNP against Cr (VI) induced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity. The organs index, serum level of ALT, AST, ALP, MDA, total protein and creatinine were measured. The histopathology and micrometry of the liver and kidney were examined. The liver index was significantly increased (0.098 ± 0.13 g) with slight increase in kidney index in Cr exposed group. The serum level of ALT (163.0 ± 5.5 U/L), AST (484.0 ± 10.7 U/L), ALP (337.6 ± 9.6 U/L), MDA (641.2 ± 29.2 U/L), and creatinine (2.9 ± 0.2 mg/dL) were significantly increased (P ≤ 0.05) with significant decrease in total protein level (2.9 ± 0.2 g/dL) (P ≤ 0.05) in chromium treated group. In histopathology, distorted hepatic cords, necrosis, damaged glomerulus and Bowman's capsule were observed. Micrometric studies of the liver and kidney showed significant increase in size of hepatocytes (1188.2 ± 467.7 µ²) and their nuclei (456.4 ± 206.7 µ²), ACSA of Bowman's capsule (11835.5 ± 336.7 µ²) and glomerulus (9051.8 ± 249.8 µ²⁾ in Cr (VI) treated group. The size of brush border (10.1 ± 3.0 µ) was significantly reduced in Cr (VI) treated group however the ACSA of lumen was not significantly changed. With the administration of NSSE and Nigella sativa AgNPs, decreased the oxidative damage caused by Cr (V).

Apoptotic and antiproliferative effects of silk protein sericin conjugated-AgNO3 nanoparticles in human breast cancer cells

Bombyx mori silk sericin is a globular-like protein that is used as an antioxidant, antibacterial, and antitumor agent. In this current research, we isolated sericin by degumming process and formation of sericin-AgNO₃ NPs confirmed by UV-vis spectra, SEM, EDX, FTIR, and XRD patterns. The sericin and sericin-AgNO₃ NPs mediated changes in human breast cancer cells were determined. The antiproliferative activity of sericin-AgNO₃ NPs was analyzed by MTT dye reduction assay. Alterations at molecular levels were investigated by qRT-PCR, while apoptotic effects were studied by nuclear DNA staining. After 72 h treatment, sericin and sericin-AgNO₃ NPs showed significant antiproliferative effects in MDA-MB-231 (26 %) and MCF-7 (41 %) cells. Expression modification showed prominent stimulation of cell cycle arrest and stress related genes such as cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors (CDKN1A, CDKN1B), and GADD family genes. RT-PCR results of the GADD family include GADD45A, B, G, 34, 153 and cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors (CDKN1A, 1B) showed pronounced induction of 3.1 to 19.8-folds in MCF-7 cell line while induction in MDA-MB-231 cell line was 2.5 to 34.3-folds. Nuclear DAPI staining showed significant induction of apoptosis and nuclear fragmentation in MDA-MB-231 cells at a concentration of 1 mg/mL for both sericin and sericin-AgNO₃ NPs. Meanwhile, in case of MCF-7 cells, after treatment with sericin and sericin-AgNO₃ NPs (1 mg/mL), the cells changed into a round shape and lost their original spindle outlook in dose-dependent manners. We concluded that sericin-AgNO₃ NPs have significant antiproliferative, apoptosis, and genetic profiling effects in both breast cancer cell lines at the highest concentration.

Bioactive Natural Products for Chemical Control of Microorganisms: Scientific Prospecting (2001–2021) and Systematic Review

The inappropriate use of synthetic antibiotics has become a global public health problem. Therefore, the study of new alternatives for the treatment of infectious diseases is relevant and natural bioactive products are on the rise. This study conducted a scientific prospection of bioactive natural products with promising applications in the chemical control of microorganisms. A systematic review of the most recent articles was performed according to the following three steps: (i) eligibility assessment, (ii) screening, and (iii) inclusion of articles and information extraction. There has been an increase in the number of scientific publications on bioactive natural products for microbial control in the CAPES and SciELO databases (2001–2021). Seventeen relevant articles were included, most of which focused on extracts. Ascorbic acid, chlorogenic acid, chrysin, and quercetin were the most cited compounds. Natural products were shown to be effective in inhibiting more than 30 microorganisms. A discussion was presented on the research trends.

Smilax china root extract as a novel Glucose- 6-phosphate dehydrogenase inhibitor for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma

A novel therapeutic strategy for cancer treatment is to target altered tumor metabolism. Glucose- 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) has been recently discovered to be implicated in apoptosis and angiogenesis, making it an excellent target in cancer treatment. The current study aimed to screen the plant extracts library to find potent hits against G6PD through enzymatic assay. Protein expression was induced by IPTG and purified using Ni-NTA columns after transformation of the pET-24a-HmG6PD plasmid into E. coli BL21-DE3 strain. An enzymatic assay was established by using purified rG6PD protein, for the screening of G6PD inhibitors. Out of 46 plant extracts screened, the sixteen plant extracts have shown inhibitory activity against the G6PD enzyme. At doses from 1 to 4 µg/ml, this extract demonstrated concentration-dependent inhibition of G6PD with an IC₅₀ value of I.397 µg/ml. Moreover, the anticancer activity evaluation against HepG2 cells determined Smilax china as a potent inhibitor of cancer cells (IC₅₀ value of 16.017 μg/ml). The acute and subacute toxicities were not observed in mice with various concentrations (50, 100, 200 and 2000 mg/kg). Furthermore, to identify the compounds from Smilax china as G6PD inhibitors, a literature-based phytochemical investigation of Smilax china was conducted, and sixty compounds were docked against the NADP+ and G6P binding sites of G6PD. The results of this study showed that three compounds were Scirpusin A, Smilachinin and Daucosterol with MolDock Score of −156.832, −148.215, and −145.733 respectively, against NADP+ binding site of G6PD. Conclusively, Smilax china root extract could be a safer drug candidate for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma.

Black coffee mitigates diethyl phthalate disrupted folliculogenesis, reduced gonadotropins, and ovarian lesions in female albino mice

Phthalates are multifunctional compounds with extensive applications and emerging environmental pollutants. Due to their ubiquity in the environment and unavoidable exposure to humans, concerns have been voiced about public health dangers. This study was aimed to explore the diethyl phthalate (DEP) toxicity and the potential protective effect of black coffee in female Swiss albino mice. Four-week-old mice, weighing 12 ± 1 g were segregated into five groups (n = 10), designated as G-I (without any treatment), G-II (treated with corn oil), G-III (exposed to 1.5 mg/g body wt. (B.W.) DEP), G-IV (received 2 μg/g B.W coffee), and G-V (co-administrated with 1.5 mg/g DEP and 2 μg/g B.W coffee). Before dose administration, the coffee extract was assessed for its antioxidant potential through FRAP, TPC, and GC-MS analyses. Respective phthalates/coffee doses were administrated orally, once a day for 8 weeks consecutively starting from the prepubescent stage. After 56 days, mice were acclimated for 4 days then dissected. Morphological assessments showed an irregular shape of the ovaries in DEP-treated mice as compared to the control. The average bodyweight of DEP-intoxicated mice (p ≤ 0.05) increased notably against control, while DEP plus coffee group showed a regular gain in the average weight of mice. The gonado-somatic index showed non-significant variations among all groups. Micrometric studies showed that the diameter of secondary follicles (115 µm) in the ovaries of DEP-exposed mice (p ≤ 0.001) decreased significantly as compared to control (204 µm); conversely, follicular diameter in the coffee control group (248) increased significantly. Serum FSH and LH levels were significantly increased in DEP-exposed mice with a noteworthy decrease in estrogen level while hormonal levels of all other groups were comparable to control. Histological sections of DEP-exposed mice ovaries showed anatomical disruptions contrary to other groups, which were comparable with control. Antioxidant potential was checked in ovaries homogenates; FRAP values showed a notable decrease in DEP group in comparison with the control group, in contrast to G-V, when DEP was co-administrated with coffee. This study concluded that black coffee has protective effect, against DEP-instigated reproductive toxicity in Swiss albino female mice.

Protective effects of Persea americana fruit and seed extracts against chemically induced liver cancer in rats by enhancing their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and apoptotic activities

This study aims to explore the chemopreventive mechanisms of hydroethanolic extracts from avocado (Persea Americana) in diethylnitrosamine (DEN)/2-acetylaminofluorene (2AAF)-induced hepatocarcinogenesis. Chemical induction of hepatocarcinogenesis was induced by intraperitoneal injection of DEN at 150 mg/kg body weight (b.w.) twice a week for a fortnight, followed by oral administration of 2AAF at 20 mg/kg b.w. four times a week for 3 weeks. Rats administered DEN/2AAF were orally treated with hydroethanolic extracts of avocado fruits and seeds at a dose of 50 mg/kg b.w. every other day for 20 weeks. Moreover, rats administered DEN/2AAF and treated with avocado extracts revealed a marked decrease in liver enzyme activities, total bilirubin levels, and elevated liver tumor markers, but revealed an increase in total protein and albumin levels. The hepatocytes with hyperchromatic and bile duct cystadenoma observed in the liver of rats administered DEN/2AAF were reduced due to treatment with avocado extracts. Furthermore, the treatments prevented the elevation of lipid peroxidation levels and ameliorated the lowered glutathione peroxidase, glutathione-S-transferase, superoxide dismutase activities, and glutathione content in the liver tissues. Also, antigen Ki-67, cyclooxygenase-2, and nuclear factor kappa-B expression levels were decreased, but of the suppressor proteins p53 and BAX levels were increased in the liver of rats administered DEN/2AAF and treated with avocado extracts. In conclusion, the current results demonstrated that avocado extracts could abate hepatocarcinogenesis in rats administered DEN/2AAF through activation of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and apoptotic properties.

Isatin Counteracts Diethylnitrosamine/2-Acetylaminofluorene-Induced Hepatocarcinogenesis in Male Wistar Rats by Upregulating Anti-Inflammatory, Antioxidant, and Detoxification Pathways

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) represents around 85% of all known types of liver cancers and is estimated to be the fifth most common cause of cancer-related death worldwide. The current study assessed the preventive efficacy of isatin on diethylnitrosamine (DENA)/2-acetylaminofluorene (2-AAF)-induced hepatocarcinogenesis in male Wistar rats and investigated the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms. HCC was initiated by intraperitoneal injection of DENA (150 mg/kg/week) for two weeks, followed by oral 2-AAF (20 mg/kg) every other day for three successive weeks. Oral isatin or vehicle (control) was administered at 25 mg/kg for 20 weeks during and following HCC induction. Isatin ameliorated the deleterious effects of DENA/2-AAF on liver function as evidenced by reduced serum levels of AST, ALT, total bilirubin, albumin, and liver tumor biomarkers (CA19.9 and AFP) compared to control DENA/2-AAF-treated rats. Histopathological evaluations demonstrated that isatin-mediated protection against hepatocarcinogenesis was accompanied by a decline in hepatic lipid peroxidation, a marker of oxidative stress, and enhanced antioxidant capacity, as evidenced by increased glutathione and superoxide dismutase expression. Isatin treatment also upregulated expression of the major stress-response transcription factor Nrf2 and the detoxifying enzymes NAD(P)H quinine oxidoreductase and glutathione-S-transferase alpha 2 and downregulated expression of the proliferation marker Ki67. Moreover, isatin significantly reduced the DENA/2-AAF-induced decrease in hepatic expression of anti-apoptotic Bcl2 and the DENA/2-AAF-induced increases in pro-inflammatory and pro-apoptotic factors (TNF-α, NF-κB p50, NF-κB p65, p53, and caspase 3). Thus, it can be concluded that isatin may protect against chemically induced hepatocarcinogenesis by enhancing cellular antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and detoxification mechanisms, in part through upregulation of the Nrf2 signaling pathway.

The B-Cell-Specific Ablation of B4GALT1 Reduces Cancer Formation and Reverses the Changes in Serum IgG Glycans during the Induction of Mouse Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Simple Summary

As serum IgG glycosylation is associated with various cancers, our goal is to explore whether serum IgG galactosylation and its associated glycans could be used as tumor markers associated with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). At the same time, we explore the effect of the B-cell-specific ablation of B4GALT1 on HCC and finally analyze whether the low incidence of female cancer was related to the findings from the above perspective. The results demonstrate that the tumor marker of serum IgG glycosylation is galactosylation and its associated glycans and that the B-cell-specific ablation of B4GALT1 reduces HCC formation by reducing serum IgG galactosylation levels and by modulating the associated glycans, meaning that the lower incidence of cancer in women may be related to minor changes in the B-cell B4GALT1 and unchanged serum IgG galactosylation levels. This study aims to provide a theoretical basis for the early diagnosis and prevention of HCC and to determine why it has such a high incidence in males.

Abstract

Serum immunoglobulin G (IgG) glycosylation, especially galactosylation, has been found to be related to a variety of tumors, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, whether IgG glycan changes occur in the early stages of HCC formation remains unclear. We found that the galactosylation level increased and that the related individual glycans showed regular changes over the course of HCC induction. Then, the effect of the B-cell-specific ablation of β1,4galactosyltransferase 1 (CKO B4GALT1) and B4GALT1 defects on the IgG glycans that were modified during the model induction process and HCC formation is investigated in this study. CKO B4GALT1 reduces serum IgG galactosylation levels and reduces cancer formation. Furthermore, insignificant changes in the B-cell B4GALT1 and unchanged serum IgG galactosylation levels were found during cancer induction in female mice, which might contribute to the lower cancer incidence in female mice than in male mice. The gender differences observed during glycan and B4GALT1 modification also add more evidence that the B4GALT1 in B cells and in serum IgG galactosylation may play an important role in HCC. Therefore, the findings of the present research can be used to determine the methods for the early detection of HCC as well as for prevention.

Silybum marianum total extract, silymarin and silibinin abate hepatocarcinogenesis and hepatocellular carcinoma growth via modulation of the HGF/c-Met, Wnt/β-catenin, and PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathways

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has been identified as one of the most deadly malignancies with limited therapeutic efficacy worldwide. However, understanding the molecular mechanisms of crosstalk between signaling pathways in HCC and predicting cancer cell responses to targeted therapeutic interventions remain to be challenge. Thus, in this study, we aimed to evaluate the anticancerous efficacy of Silybum marianum total extract (STE), silymarin (Sm), and silibinin (Sb) against experimentally-induced HCC in rats. In vitro investigations were also performed and the anticancer effects against HCC cell lines (HepG2 and Huh7) were confirmed. Wistar rats were given diethylnitrosamine (DEN)/2-acetylaminofluorene (AAF)/carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) and were orally treated with STE (200 mg/kg body weight (bw)), Sm (150 mg/kg bw), and Sb (5 mg/kg bw) every other day from the 1st or 16th week to the 25th week of DEN/AAF/CCl4 injection. Treatment with STE, Sm, and Sb inhibited the growth of cancerous lesions in DEN/AAF/CCl4-treated rats. This inhibition was associated with inhibition of Ki-67 expression and repression of HGF/cMet, Wnt/β-catenin, and PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathways. STE, Sm, and Sb improved liver function biomarkers and tumor markers (AFP, CEA, and CA19.9) and increased total protein and albumin levels in serum. STE, Sm, and Sb treatment was also noted to reduce the hepatic production of lipid peroxides, increase hepatic glutathione content, and induce the activities of hepatic antioxidant enzymes in DEN/AAF/CCl4-treated rats. These results indicate that STE, Sm, and Sb exert anti-HCC effects through multiple pathways, including suppression of Ki-67 expression and HGF/cMet, Wnt/β-catenin, and PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathways and enhancement of antioxidant defense mechanisms.

Minocycline-Derived Silver Nanoparticles for Assessment of Their Antidiabetic Potential against Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Mice

Diabetes is a life-threatening disease, and chronic diabetes affects parts of the body including the liver, kidney, and pancreas. The root cause of diabetes is mainly associated with oxidative stress produced by reactive oxygen species. Minocycline is a drug with a multi-substituted phenol ring and has shown excellent antioxidant activities. The objective of the present study was to investigate the antidiabetic potential of minocycline-modified silver nanoparticles (mino/AgNPs) against alloxan-induced diabetic mice. The mino/AgNPs were synthesized using minocycline as reducing and stabilizing agents. UV-visible, FT-IR, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were applied for the characterization of mino/AgNPs. A 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl free radical scavenging assay was conducted to determine the antioxidant potential of newly synthesized mino/AgNPs. The results revealed that the mino/AgNPs showed higher radical scavenging activity (IC₅₀ = 19.7 µg/mL) compared to the minocycline (IC₅₀ = 26.0 µg/mL) and ascorbic acid (IC₅₀ = 25.2 µg/mL). Further, mino/AgNPs were successfully employed to examine their antidiabetic potential against alloxan-induced diabetic mice. Hematological results showed that the mice treated with mino/AgNPs demonstrated a significant decrease in fasting blood glucose level and lipid profile compared to the untreated diabetic group. A histopathological examination confirmed that the diabetic mice treated with mino/AgNPs showed significant recovery and revival of the histo-morphology of the kidney, central vein of the liver, and islet cells of the pancreas compared to the untreated diabetic mice. Hence, mino/AgNPs have good antidiabetic potential and could be an appropriate nanomedicine to prevent the development of diabetes.

Evaluation of sex steroid hormones and reproductive irregularities in diethyl phthalate-exposed premature mice: modulatory effect of raw honey against potential anomalies

Phthalates, plasticizing chemicals, are top-rated environmental contaminants. Diethyl phthalate (DEP), a chief member of this family, was declared a potent endocrine disruptor and carcinogen in animals and humans. The current study was designed to explore the probable reproductive damage induced by DEP and the therapeutic efficacy of raw honey in male albino mice. Four-week-old 50 male mice were randomized equally in five groups, as control (C) received 0.1 ml distilled water; vehicle control (VC) received corn oil (0.1 ml/mouse); DEP (3mg/g/BW) dissolved in corn oil; honey control (HC) administered with honey (0.2 mg/g/day); and phthalate plus honey (P+H) administered with DEP and honey (3mg and 0.2 mg/g/BW/day respectively). Mice were treated through oral gavage for 54 days routinely, acclimatized for 6 days, and dissected. In the first instance, the antioxidant potential and total phenolic contents (TPC) of honey were analyzed through ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay and Folin-Ciocalteu assay to confirm the antioxidant capacity of honey. The morphological, morphometric, histological, micrometric, sperm count, and hormonal analyses, and antioxidant capacity test in tissue homogenates were conducted by using tissues (testis, epididymis) and blood samples of mice. Mice exposed to DEP have a significant increase in body weight, LH level, and seminiferous tubule lumen diameter and decrease in the gonado-somatic index, testosterone level, sperm count, and seminiferous tubule diameter. Additionally, histopathology of testes showed interstitial space dilations, exfoliations, Leydig cell atrophy, germ cell degenerations, and spermatid retention in DEP-exposed testes sections. However, concomitant use of honey and DEP had shown a significant improvement in histopathological lesions, steroid hormone levels, and healthy sperm count. By these results, it is concluded that honey possessed antioxidant potential that can efficiently protect DEP-induced anomalies in male mice.

Tackling of Renal Carcinogenesis in Wistar Rats by Silybum marianum Total Extract, Silymarin, and Silibinin via Modulation of Oxidative Stress, Apoptosis, Nrf2, PPARγ, NF-κB, and PI3K/Akt Signaling Pathways

The present work was designed to assess the efficacy of Silybum marianum total extract (STE), silymarin (Sm), and silibinin (Sb) against experimentally induced renal carcinogenesis in male Wistar rats and their roles in regulating oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, and carcinogenesis. The diethylnitrosamine (DEN)/2-acetylaminofluorene (AAF)/carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-administered rats were orally treated with STE (200 mg/kg b.w.), Sm (150 mg/kg b.w.), and Sb (5 mg/kg b.w.) every other day either from the 1st week or from the 16th week of carcinogen administration to the end of 25th week. The treatments with STE, Sm, and Sb attenuated markers of toxicity in serum, decreased kidney lipid peroxidation (LPO), and significantly reinforced the renal antioxidant armory. The biochemical results were further confirmed by the histopathological alterations. The treatments also led to suppression of proinflammatory mediators such as NF-κβ, p65, Iκβα, and IL-6 in association with inhibition of the PI3K/Akt pathway. Furthermore, they activated the expressions of PPARs, Nrf2, and IL-4 in addition to downregulation of apoptotic proteins p53 and caspase-3 and upregulation of antiapoptotic mediator Bcl-2. The obtained data supply potent proof for the efficacy of STE, Sm, and Sb to counteract renal carcinogenesis via alteration of varied molecular pathways.

Evaluation of Cadmium Chloride-Induced Toxicity in Chicks Via Hematological, Biochemical Parameters, and Cadmium Level in Tissues

Cadmium is a heavy metal and a non-biodegradable environmental contaminant, and its omnipresence ensures its recurrent exposure to humans and animals. Its intake by chicks leads to fatal implications. Cadmium chloride (CdCl₂) because of its bio-accumulative nature is an emerging threat to the poultry industry as well as to the humans which consumes these cadmium-intoxicated chickens. In the current study, the target was to elucidate the toxic effects of CdCl₂on body weight, hematological, and biochemical parameters as well as its bioaccumulation in different organs of broiler chicks. Various concentrations of CdCl₂ (0, 12, 24, 38, and 48 mg/kg body weight) were administered orally to five groups (A, B, C, D, and E) of broiler chicks, respectively. The biometric screening of the exposed birds was carried out by hematological parameters such as packed cell volume (PCV), total erythrocyte count (TEC), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), total protein, white blood cells (WBC), and hemoglobin (Hb), as well as biochemical parameters superoxide dismutase (SOD), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) with commercially available kits. Metal accumulation in different organs was detected using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The compound exposure produced a varied impact on broiler birds. Hematological parameters showed a significant decrease except for WBC. Biochemical parameters also decreased significantly in a dose-dependent manner. However, it was revealed that the body weight of chickens was not affected considerably after CdCl₂ exposure. A direct relationship was detected between the accumulation of metal within tissues (lungs, heart, and flesh) and exposure frequency. It can be deduced that an increase in Cd deposition in tissues may lead to an alteration in hematological-biochemical markers which may significantly contribute to systemic toxicity in broilers.

Phytochemical analysis and biological activities of ethanolic extract of Curcuma longa rhizome

Curcuma longa is an important dietary plant which possess several pharmacological activities, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflamatory, anticancer and anti clotting etc. The aim of the present study was to determine the phenolic profile of Curcuma longa and in vitro antioxidant and antidiabetic activities. In HPLC chromatogram of Curcuma longa rhizome extract 15 phenolic compounds were identified namely Digalloyl-hexoside, Caffeic acid hexoside, Curdione, Coumaric, Caffeic acid, Sinapic acid, Qurecetin-3-D-galactoside, Casuarinin, Bisdemethoxycurcumin, Curcuminol, Demethoxycurcumin, and Isorhamnetin, Valoneic acid bilactone, Curcumin, Curcumin-O-glucuronide respectively. The ethanolic extract displayed an IC50 value of 37.1±0.3 µg/ml against alpha glucosidase. The IC50 value of DPPH radical scavenging activity was 27.2 ± 1.1 μg/mL. It is concluded that ethanolic extract of Curcuma long is rich source of curcumin and contain several important phenolics. The in vitro antioxidant and alpha glucosidase inhibitory effect of the plant justifies its popular use in traditional medicine.

Mild Hyperthermia Responsive Liposomes for Enhanced In Vitro and In Vivo Anticancer Efficacy of Doxorubicin against Hepatocellular Carcinoma

The current study is aimed to fabricate doxorubicin (Dox) loaded mild temperature responsive liposomes (MTLs) by thin film hydration technique for enhanced in vitro and in vivo anticancer efficacy against hepatocellular carcinoma. The aforementioned Dox loaded MTLs were developed and optimized with extrusion and drug loading techniques. The optimized MTLs were in optimum size range (118.20 ± 2.81–187.13 ± 4.15 nm), colloidal stability (−13.27 ± 0.04 to −32.34 ± 0.15 mV), and enhanced entrapment of Dox (28.71 ± 2.01–79.24 ± 2.16). Furthermore, the optimized formulation (MTL1-E_(AL)) embodied improved physicochemical stability deducted by Fourier transform infra-red (FTIR) spectroscopy and mild hyperthermia-based phase transition demonstrated from differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). An in vitro drug release study revealed mild hyperthermia assisted rapid in vitro Dox release from MTLs-E_(AL) (T_100% ≈ 1 h) by Korsmeyer–Peppas model based Fickian diffusion (n < 0.45). Likewise, an in vitro cytotoxicity study and lower IC₅₀ values also symbolized mild hyperthermia (40.2 °C) based quick and improved cytotoxicity of MTL1-E_(AL) in HepG2 and MCF-7 cells than Dox. The fluorescence microscopy also represented enhanced cellular internalization of MTL1-E_(AL) at mild hyperthermia compared to the normothermia (37.2 °C). In addition, an in vivo animal study portrayed the safety, improved anticancer efficacy and healing of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) through MTL1-E_(AL). In brief, the Dox loaded MTLs could be utilized as safe and effective therapeutic strategy against HCC.

An Overview of Hepatocellular Carcinoma with Emphasis on Dietary Products and Herbal Remedies

The most common principal malignant tumor that accounts for ∼80% of cases of liver cancer across the world is hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). It is a multifacetedillness that is caused by several risk factors and often progresses in the context of underlying cirrhosis. It is tremendously difficult and essential for the screening of novel therapeutic medications to establish HCC preclinical models that are equivalent to clinical diseases settings, i.e., representing the tumor microenvironment of HCC. In the progress of HCC, numerous molecular cascades have been supposed to play a part. Sorafenib is the only drug permitted by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of HCC. Yet because of the increasing resistance to the drug and its toxicity, clinical treatment methods are not completely adequate. Newer treatment therapy options are essential for the management of HCC in patients. Natural compounds can be afforded by the patients with improved results with less toxicity and fewer side effects, among different methods of liver cancer treatment. The treatment and management of HCC with natural drugs and their phytoconstituents are connected to several paths that can prevent the occurrence and progress of HCC in several ways. The present review summarizes the etiology of HCC, molecular pathways, newer therapeutic approaches, natural dietary products, herbal plants and phytoconstituents for HCC treatment.

Prophylactic effects of Cynara scolymus L. leaf and flower hydroethanolic extracts against diethylnitrosamine/acetylaminoflourene-induced lung cancer in Wistar rats

The study examines the prophylactic action of artichoke leaf hydroethanolic extract (ALE) and artichoke flower head hydroethanolic extract (AFE) against diethylnitrosamine (DEN)/acetylaminofluorene (AAF)-induced lung cancer in Wistar rats. To chemically induce lung cancer, DEN was injected intraperitoneally twice a week for a fortnight at a dose of 150 mg/kg body weight (b.w.), followed by oral supplementation of AAF four times a week for 3 weeks at a dose of 20 mg/kg b.w. The DEN/AAF-administered rats were orally supplemented with ALE or AFE at a dose of 100 mg/kg b.w. for 17 weeks starting from the 1st week of DEN injection to the 17th week of the experiment. The lung cancerous injuries resulting from DEN/AAF-administration were significantly improved by the treatment with ALE and AFE as observed in histological examination. In addition, there was a significant reduction in lung lipid peroxidation, with resultant elevation in antioxidant enzymatic activity of glutathione-S-transferase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, and superoxide dismutase as well as glutathione content in DEN/AAF-supplemented rats treated with ALE and AFE as compared to DEN/AAF-administered control. The lung tumor suppressor protein (p53) and B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) mRNA expression significantly increased in the rats treated with ALE and AFE. In conclusion, the finding showed that ALE and AFE produced anti-cancer prophylactic effects against DEN/AAF-induced lung cancer in rats via suppression of oxidative stress and improved apoptotic signal induction.

The protective role of etoricoxib against diethylnitrosamine/2-acetylaminofluorene-induced hepatocarcinogenesis in Wistar rats: The impact of NF-κB/COX-2/PGE2 signaling

BACKGROUND

Liver cancer ranks as the 7th and 5th leading cause of cancer morbidity worldwide in men and women, respectively. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of liver cancer and is associated with an increasing global burden of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).

OBJECTIVE

The present study aimed to investigate the possible chemopreventive effect of etoricoxib on diethylnitrosamine (DENA) and 2-acetylaminofluorene (2AAF)-induced HCC in male Wistar rats.

METHODS

HCC was induced by DENA (150 mg/kg/week; i.p) for 2 weeks, then 2AAF (20 mg/kg; p.o) every other day for three successive weeks. Etoricoxib (0.6 mg/kg, p.o.) was given to DENA/2AAF-administered rats for 20 weeks.

RESULTS

Etoricoxib significantly suppressed alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA19.9) as liver tumor biomarkers. It also decreased serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and total bilirubin levels while increasing serum albumin levels. Besides, it alleviated DENA/2AAF-induced histopathological abrasions and inflammatory cell infiltration. Furthermore, etoricoxib showed a potent antioxidant effect, supported by a significant lipid peroxide reduction and elevation in superoxide dismutase and GSH content activity. In addition, Etoricoxib significantly down-regulated the protein expression of interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), nuclear Factor-kappa B (NF-κB), phosphorylated nuclear Factor-kappa B (p-NF-κB), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2).

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the current results proved that etoricoxib possesses an anticarcinogenic effect via its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and modulation of NF-κB/COX-2/PGE2 signaling.

Lactobacillus acidophilus ATCC 4356 Exopolysaccharides Suppresses Mediators of Inflammation through the Inhibition of TLR2/STAT-3/P38-MAPK Pathway in DEN-Induced Hepatocarcinogenesis in Rats

Probiotics have been suggested as a safe and cost-effective approach to prevent or treat hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Some of the exopolysaccharides (EPSs) produced by lactic acid bacteria confer health benefits such as immunomodulatory and antitumor activities. The present study was therefore aimed to investigate the immunomodulatory effect of Lactobacillus acidophilus ATCC 4356 EPSs against diethylnitrosamine (DEN) and gamma radiation (IR) induced HCC either as prevention or treatment in male rats' model. Biochemical results revealed a significant increase in serum ALT and γ-GT activities as well as MDA, IL-17, TGF-β1, signal transducer and activator of transcription-3 protein (STAT3), mitogen-activated protein kinase p38 (p38MAPK) levels in the liver tissue. The gene expression level of the liver toll-like receptor 2 (TLR-2) gene was also increased. However, prevention and treatment with EPSs ameliorated most of the investigated parameters. The histopathological observations of liver tissues were in agreement with restored biochemical results. In conclusion, Lactobacillus acidophilus ATCC 4356 EPSs are efficacious control against HCC throughout the regulation of TLR2/STAT-3/P38-MAPK Pathway associated with inflammation. Therefore, our novel EPSs ATCC 4356 could be used as a good, safe and effective probiotic to prevent hepatocarcinogenesis in suspected patients.

Anticancer Effects of Tacrolimus on Induced Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Mice

BACKGROUND

Tacrolimus is a calcineurin inhibitor widely used for immunological disorders. However, there is a significant controversy regarding its effect on the liver. The present study was conducted to evaluate the anticancer effects of tacrolimus on an induced murine hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) model and its possible hepatotoxicity at standard therapeutic doses.

METHODS

Fifty-four male mice were divided into five groups: a control healthy group, control HCC group, tacrolimus-treated group, doxorubicin (DOXO)-treated group, and combined tacrolimus- and DOXO-treated group. The activity of liver enzymes, including alkaline phosphatase, gamma-glutamyl transferase, lactate dehydrogenase, alanine transaminase, and aspartate transaminase, was determined. Serum vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. A quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was conducted to measure the expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), Bax, and p53 mRNA. Immunohistochemical staining for cyclin D1 and VEGF was performed.

RESULTS

Mice that received combined treatment with tacrolimus and DOXO exhibited the best improvement in all parameters when compared with the groups that received DOXO or tacrolimus alone (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The combination of DOXO and tacrolimus was more effective in the management of HCC compared with either agent alone. This improvement was detected by the reduction of liver enzymes and the improvement of the histopathological picture. The involved mechanisms included significant apoptosis induction demonstrated by upregulation of bax along with a reduction in angiogenesis demonstrated by downregulation of VEGF. This was accompanied by inhibition of cell cycle progression mediated by upregulated p53 and downregulated PCNA and cyclin D1.

Phenolics-Enriched Fraction of Pterospermum Lanceifolium Roxb. efficiently Reverses the Hepatocellular Carcinoma in NDEA-Induced HCC Rats

Hepatocellular Carcinoma is one of the most frequently diagnosed cancer and highly refractory for chemotherapeutics agents. Therefore, the study aims to explore the new therapeutic agents for HCC. Phenolics rich fraction of leaves of P. lanceifolium was studied against hepatic cancer cell lines (HepG2) and NDEA-induced HCC rat model system. The obtained results showed that PLE induces reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and chromatin condensation in nucleus and, alters the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) in HepG2 cell lines. The acridine orange/propidium iodide analysis and annexin-V FITC/PI analysis confirms that PLE induces apoptosis-mediated cell death in HepG2-cell lines. In In Vivo analysis, the administration of PLE in NDEA-induced rats declined the elevated biochemicals markers (ALT, AST, ALP, and GGT), interleukins, TNF-α, α-fetoprotein, carcinoembryonic antigen, and total bilirubin. PLE reinstated the level of antioxidant enzyme (GSH, GST, catalase, SOD, and GPX) and the expression of pro-apoptotic (p53, caspase-3, caspase-9, and Bax) and anti-apoptotic (Bcl-2) genes in a dose-dependent manner. The GC-MS analysis of Pterospermum lanceifolium fraction (PLE) represents the presence of palmitic acid, myristic acid, β-sitosterol, and catechin as major bioactive phytocompounds. The study discloses the new lead for HCC that can be further useful for development of new chemopreventive agent.

The effects of some heavy metals on some fish species

The current research was designed to investigate the adverse effects of dense ores in different organs exposed to these metals polluted water on three edible fish species (Wallago attu, Catla catla and Tilapia nilotica), sampled from River Sutlej at Head Islam (Hasilpur), Pakistan. The assimilation of different elements Ni, Fe, Cd, Cr and Pb in body parts of normal fish took from the fish farm and also made a comparison among understudied fishes. Overall absorption of ores in fishes was ranked as Fe > Ni > Cr > Cd > Pb. A remarkable variation in the deposition of elements in different organs of three fish species and was analyzed statistically (p < 0.05). High levels of ore assimilation in fish organs pointed out potential health risks for the fish, other aquatic organisms and human beings too.

Abnormal steroidogenesis, oxidative stress, and reprotoxicity following prepubertal exposure to butylparaben in mice and protective effect of Curcuma longa

Mammalian reproduction is a highly regulated process that can be distorted following exposure to synthetic antimicrobial preservatives like butylparaben (BP). Besides, studies have not investigated the potential antioxidant effects of turmeric on BP-provoked reprotoxicity. The present research was planned on prepubertal mice, orally treated with BP (150 μg/g body weight/day) with and without Curcuma longa (turmeric) (400 μg/mice/day) from postnatal day 35 to 65 routinely. Results showed an insignificant reduction in body weight of both sexes but contrary to these, gonadal weight increased significantly in PB-exposed mice. Additionally, elevated levels of follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone while decreased estrogen levels were observed in BP-treated females against control. Sperm count and motility were disturbed, coupled with abnormal sperm morphology in BP-intoxicated group. These findings were synchronized with a decreased testosterone levels in the same group as compared with control. The follicular count revealed reduction in the number of antral follicles while an increase in empty follicles. The BP also significantly increased lipid peroxidation and decreased glutathione content, superoxide dismutase, and catalase activities, while the morphometric, biochemical, and histological deviations were less pronounced in the group, which was co-administered with BP and turmeric. Results indicated that turmeric has antioxidant potential to protect BP-induced oxidative stress and reprotoxicity in mice.

Silk derived formulations for accelerated wound healing in diabetic mice

BACKGROUND

The present study aimed to prepare effective silk derived formulations in combination with plant extract (Aloe vera gel) to speed up the wound healing process in diabetic mice.

METHODS

Diabetes was induced in albino mice by using alloxan monohydrate. After successful induction of diabetes in mice, excision wounds were created via biopsy puncture (6 mm). Wound healing effect of silk sericin (5%) and silk fibroin (5%) individually and in combination with 5% Aloe vera gel was evaluated by determining the percent wound contraction, healing time and histological analysis.

RESULTS

The results indicated that the best biocompatible silk combination was of 5% silk fibroin and 5% Aloe vera gel in which wounds were healed in 13 days with wound contraction: 98.33 ± 0.80%. In contrast, the wound of the control group (polyfax) healed in 19 day shaving 98.5 ± 0.67% contraction. Histological analysis revealed that the wounds which were treated with silk formulations exhibited an increased growth of blood vessels, collagen fibers, and much reduced inflammation.

CONCLUSION

It can be concluded that a combination of Bombyx mori silk and Aloe vera gel is a natural biomaterial that can be utilized in wound dressings and to prepare more innovative silk based formulations for speedy recovery of chronic wounds.

Cardiac toxicity of heavy metals (cadmium and mercury) and pharmacological intervention by vitamin C in rabbits

Mercury and cadmium are highly dangerous metals that can lead to disastrous effects in animals and humans. The aim of the current research was to elucidate the poisonous effects of mercuric chloride and cadmium chloride individually and in combination on biochemical profiles of plasma and their accumulation in heart. The therapeutic effect of vitamin C against these metals in rabbits was also studied. Mercuric chloride (1.2 μg/g), cadmium chloride (1.5 μg/g), and vitamin C (150 μg/g of body weight) were orally given to treatment groups of the rabbits (1-control; 2-vitamin; 3-CdCl₂; 4-HgCl₂; 5-vitamin + CdCl₂; 6-vitamin + HgCl₂; 7-CdCl₂ + HgCl₂, and 8-vitamin + CdCl₂ + HgCl₂. After the biometric determination of all intoxicated rabbits, biochemical parameters, viz low-density lipoproteins (LDL), high-density lipoproteins (HDL), cholesterol, creatine kinase, and troponin T (TnT) were analyzed using available kits. Levels of cholesterol (0.7 ± 0.1 mmol/l), creatine kinase (2985.2 ± 11 IU/L), LDL (20.35 ± 1.31 mg/dl), and troponin T (1.22 ± 0.03 μg/l) were significantly (P < 0.05) increased. HDL (84.78 ± 4.30 mg/dl) was significantly (P < 0.05) decreased, while supplementation of vitamin C decreased the adverse effects of CdCl₂ and HgCl₂ on biochemical parameters in all metal-exposed groups. A similar trend was also seen in rabbits treated with CdCl₂ + vitamin and vitamin + CdCl₂ + HgCl₂. Accumulation of Cd and Hg was higher in heart tissues. This study, therefore, provides awareness on the cardiac toxicity of mercury and cadmium chlorides in the rabbits and the possible protective role of vitamin C against the perturbations induced by metals.

Dose and duration-dependent toxicological evaluation of lead acetate in chicks

Lead is one of the utmost contaminated and dangerous heavy metals. This toxicant ultimately enters into the human body through the food chain and accumulated in the body because the animal/human body has not an appropriate mechanism to excrete it from the body. The main objective of the present research was to assess the toxicological effects of lead on body weights, biochemical, and hematological parameters of chickens and also to measure its bioaccumulation in the brain. Lead acetate was administrated orally at doses of 0, 71, 142, 213, and 284 mg/kg of body weight of chicken for groups A, B, C, D, and E, respectively. Along with determination of biometry of all experimental chicks, hematological [hemoglobin (Hb), packed cell volume (PCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), total erythrocyte count (TEC), white blood cells (WBCs), leukocyte differential count (LDC)] and biochemical [low density lipoprotein (LDL), total protein, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and alanine aminotransferase (ALT)] parameters were measured. The present study showed that the bodyweight of chickens was not affected significantly by lead acetate exposure. The levels of MCHC, PCV, TEC, Hb, LDL, HDL, and total protein were found to be significantly decreased while WBC, LDC, and ALT profile were enhanced due to administration of lead acetate. Bioaccumulation of lead acetate was found to be higher in the brain. We conclude that the chronic administration of lead acetate affected the blood and biochemical profile of exposed chicken. These effects might be due to the accumulation of the chemical in certain vital organ(s). However, further studies in the future are suggested to refine such findings.

Repeated exposure to the irrigative wastewater in Shijiazhuang induced precancerous lesion associated with cytochrome P450

In the present study, the carcinogenic effects of the wastewater sample collected from the Dongming Canal in Shijiazhuang city were first detected by the rat medium-term liver bioassay. The experiment contained five groups: a negative control group, a DEN-alone group, 25% wastewater, 50% wastewater, and 100% wastewater. The body weight of rats decreased significantly as the dose increased. Morphologically, we also found that the damage of the hepatic lobule was more serious and the proliferation of liver cells was more obvious as the dose increased. In addition, we observed a significantly increased liver organ coefficient in rat. With the increase in dose, the damage of the hepatocytes was more serious, which was manifested in significantly elevated of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and gammaglutamyl transfer peptide enzyme (γ-GT). And, the irrigative wastewater significantly increased GST-p in the liver of rats at both the transcriptional and translational levels dose-dependently, eventually causing precancerous lesions in the liver tissues. CYP1A1 and CYP1B1 expressions in the rat liver cells at the level of transcription and translation were also significantly increased dose-dependently. Our data clearly demonstrated that the irrigative wastewater had a carcinogenetic effect that was associated with CYP1A1 and CYP1B1. The risk of carcinogenic potential to human health might be due to joint action and accumulative effects over a long period of exposure. We can also concluded that the medium-term liver bioassay could be used as an effective method for evaluating the carcinogenicity of complex water mixtures such as irrigative wastewater.

Quercetin and naringenin abate diethylnitrosamine/acetylaminofluorene-induced hepatocarcinogenesis in Wistar rats: the roles of oxidative stress, inflammation and cell apoptosis

This study was designed to assess the preventive effects and to suggest the probable mechanisms of action of quercetin and naringein in diethylnitrosamine (DEN)/2-acetylaminofluorene (2AAF)-induced hepatocarcinogenesis in Wistar male rats. The chemical-induction of hepatocarcinogenesis was performed by injection of DEN intraperitoneally at 150 mg/kg body weight (b.w.) twice/week for two weeks, followed by oral administration of 2AAF at 20 mg/kg body weight (b.w.) 4 times/week for 3 weeks. The DEN/2AAF-administered rats were co-treated with quercetin and naringenin at dose level of 10 mg/kg b. w. by oral gavage for 20 weeks. The treatment of DEN/2AAF-administered rats with quercetin and naringenin significantly prevented the elevations in serum levels of liver function indicators (ALT, AST, ALP, γ-GT, total bilirubin and albumin) and liver tumor biomarkers including AFP, CEA and CA19.9. The cancerous histological lesions and inflammatory cells infiltration in liver of DEN/2AAF-administered rats were remarkably suppressed by treatments with quercetin and naringenin. The hepatic oxidative stress markers including NO level and lipid peroxidation significantly decreased while the SOD, GPx and CAT activities and GSH content significantly increased in DEN/2AAF-administered rats treated with quercetin and naringenin when compared to DEN/2AFF-administered control rats. Furthermore, the lowered mRNA expression of liver IL-4, P53 and Bcl-2 in of DEN/2AAF-administered rats were significantly counteracted by treatment with quercetin and naringenin. Taken together, our results demonstrate that quercetin and naringenin may abate hepatocarcinogenesis via enhancement of anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and apoptotic actions.

Study on the mechanism underlying Al-induced hepatotoxicity based on the identification of the Al-binding proteins in liver

Aluminum (Al) is the most abundant metal element in the earth's crust, and is implicated in the pathogenesis of liver lesions. However, the mechanisms underlying Al³⁺-induced hepatotoxicity are still largely elusive. Based on analysis with native gel electrophoresis, Al³⁺ plus 8-hydroxyquinoline staining and LC-MS/MS, the proteins with high Al³⁺ affinity were identified to be carbamoyl-phosphate synthase, adenosylhomocysteinase, heat shock protein 90-alpha, carbonic anhydrase 3, serum albumin and calreticulin. These proteins are involved in physiological processes such as the urea cycle, redox reactions, apoptosis and so on. Then we established an Al³⁺-treated rat model for biochemical tests, morphology observation and Ca²⁺ homeostasis analysis, in order to evaluate the extent of oxidative damage, hepatic histopathology and specific indicators of Al³⁺-related proteins in liver. Our findings indicated the high-affinity interactions with Al³⁺ perturbed the normal function of the above proteins, which could account for the mechanism underlying Al³⁺-induced hepatotoxicity.