Effects of Berberis vulgaris fruit extract on oxidative stress status in the kidney and liver of diabetic rats

OBJECTIVES

Oxidative stress has a key role in the diabetes pathogenesis and complications. Berberis vulgaris is known in folk medicine for curing several diseases. The current research aimed to assess the influences of Berberis vulgaris fruit extract against oxidative stress in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.

METHODS

Streptozotocin (60 mg/kg, ip) was injected to male rats. After diabetes confirmation, animals received the Berberis vulgaris fruit extract daily at amounts of 3.5 and 7.5 % of drinking water (v/v) for six weeks. Total thiol and lipid peroxidation levels were assessed in the serum, liver, kidney and spleen at the end of the study.

RESULTS

Diabetic rats exhibited hyperglycemia along with enhancement of lipid peroxidation levels in the serum, liver, kidney and spleen, and decrement of total thiol content in the kidney and liver tissues. Chronic administration of Berberis vulgaris fruit extract at amount of 3.5 % of drinking water decreased the lipid peroxidation level in the serum and liver, and enhanced total thiol level in the liver and kidney.

CONCLUSIONS

Berberis vulgaris fruit extract exerts antioxidant activity in the serum, liver and kidney organs of diabetic rats. Therefore, it might be used in the prevention and control of diabetes complications.

Neuroprotective effects of sesamol against LPS-induced spatial learning and memory deficits are mediated via anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities in the rat brain

Objective

Sesamol is a phenolic lignan extracted from sesame seeds, and it possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is known to produce neuroinflammatory responses and memory impairment. The current study aimed to investigate the protective influence of sesamol against LPS-mediated neuroinflammation and memory impairment.

Materials and Methods

Sesamol (10 and 50 mg/kg) was injected to Wistar rats for two weeks. Then, animals received LPS injection (1 mg/kg) for five days, while treatment with sesamol was performed 30 min before LPS injection. Spatial learning and memory were assessed by the Morris water maze (MWM), two hours after LPS injection on days 15-19. Biochemical assessments were performed after the end of behavioral experiments.

Results

LPS-administered rats showed spatial learning and memory deficits, since they spent more time in the MWM to find the hidden platform and less time in the target quadrant. Besides these behavioral changes, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and lipid peroxidation levels were increased, while total thiol level was decreased in the hippocampus and/or cerebral cortex. In addition, sesamol treatment (50 mg/kg) for three weeks decreased the escape latency and increased the time on probe trial. Sesamol also reduced lipid peroxidation and TNF-α level, while enhanced total thiol level in the brain of LPS-exposed rats.

Conclusion

Supplementation of sesamol attenuated learning and memory impairments in LPS-treated rats via antioxidative and anti-inflammatory activities in the rat brain.

Treadmill running and Levisticum Officinale extract protect against LPS-induced memory deficits by modulating neurogenesis, neuroinflammation and oxidative stress

Neuroinflammation plays an essential role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease. The preventive effect of physical exercise on attenuating neuroinflammation has not been completely defined. Levisticum officinale is known as a medicinal plant with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The current study was designed to investigate the neuroprotective impacts of treadmill running and Levisticum officinale on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced learning and memory impairments and neuroinflammation in rats. Male Wistar rats ran on a treadmill and/or were pretreated with Levisticum officinale extract at a dose of 100 mg/kg for a week. Then, rats received intraperitoneal injection of LPS at a dose of 1 mg/kg. Treadmill running and/or treatment of extract lasted three more weeks. Behavioral, molecular, biochemical and immunohistochemical assessments were carried out after the end of the experiment. LPS administration resulted in spatial learning and memory impairments along with increased mRNA expression of interleukin-6 and malondialdehyde levels, as well as decreased superoxide dismutase activity and neurogenesis in the hippocampus. Moreover, treadmill running for four weeks, alone and in combination with Levisticum officinale extract attenuated spatial learning and memory deficits, decreased the mRNA expression of interleukin-6 and malondialdehyde levels, and enhanced superoxide dismutase activity and neurogenesis in the hippocampus. In conclusion, the advantageous effects of running exercise and Levisticum officinale extract on LPS-induced memory impairments are possibly due to the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity and enhancing neurogenesis.

Supplementation of carvacrol attenuates hippocampal tumor necrosis factor-alpha level, oxidative stress, and learning and memory dysfunction in lipopolysaccharide-exposed rats

Background:

Carvacrol is a natural phenolic monoterpene with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant bioactivities. Neuroinflammatory and oxidative stress responses play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease. The present study examined the effect of carvacrol on brain tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) level and oxidative stress as well as spatial learning and memory performances in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-exposed rats.

Materials and Methods:

The rats were treated with either carvacrol (25 and 50 mg/kg) or Tween 80 for 2 weeks. Thereafter, LPS (1 mg/kg) or saline was intraperitoneally administered on days 15–19, 2 h before Morris water maze task, and treatments with carvacrol or Tween 80 were performed 30 min prior to behavioral testing. The level of TNF-α, lipid peroxidation, and total thiol concentration were measured in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex at the end of the experiment.

Results:

It was found that LPS-exposed rats exhibited spatial learning and memory dysfunction, which was accompanied by increased TNF-α level and lipid peroxidation, and decreased total thiol concentration in the hippocampus and/or cortex. Moreover, treatment with carvacrol at a dose of 25 mg/kg attenuated learning and memory impairments, decreased TNF-α and lipid peroxidation level in the hippocampus and cortex, and increased total thiol concentration in the cortex.

Conclusion:

Carvacrol exerts neuroprotective effects against LPS-induced spatial memory deficits through attenuating hippocampal TNF-α level and oxidative stress in rats.

Neuroprotective effects of Levisticum officinale on LPS-induced spatial learning and memory impairments through neurotrophic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties

Levisticum officinale (Apiaceae) has been identified as a medicinal plant in traditional medicine, with the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticholinesterase activities. The present study aims to evaluate the effects of Levisticum officinale extract (LOE) on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced learning and memory deficits and to examine its potential mechanisms. LOE was administered to adult male Wistar rats at doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg kg-1 for a week. Later, LPS was intraperitoneally injected at a dose of 1 mg kg-1 to induce neuroinflammation, and treatment with LOE continued for 3 more weeks. Behavioral, biochemical, and molecular analyses were performed at the end of the experiment. Moreover, quantitative immunohistochemical assessments of the expression of Ki-67 (intracellular proliferation marker) in the hippocampus were performed. The results revealed that LPS injection caused spatial memory impairment in the rats. Daily LOE treatment at applied doses for 4 weeks attenuated spatial learning and memory deficits in LPS-injected rats. Furthermore, LPS significantly increased the mRNA expression level of interleukin-6 in the hippocampus, which was accompanied by decreased brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) mRNA expression levels. Moreover, LPS increased the levels of malondialdehyde, reduced the antioxidant enzyme activities of catalase and superoxide dismutase in the hippocampus, and impaired neurogenesis. However, pre-treatment with LOE at a dose of 100 mg kg-1 significantly reversed the LPS-induced changes, and improved neurogenesis. In conclusion, the beneficial effect of LOE on the improvement of learning and memory could be attributed to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, along with its ability to increase BDNF expression and neurogenesis in the hippocampus.

Effects of crocin on spatial or aversive learning and memory impairments induced by lipopolysaccharide in rats

OBJECTIVE

Neuroinflammation and oxidative stress play essential roles in the pathogenesis and progression of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease. Crocin, main active constituent of Crocus sativus L. (saffron), possesses anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic and anti-oxidative capacity. The aim of the present study was to investigate the neuroprotective effect of crocin on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced learning and memory deficits and neuroinflammation in rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The animals were randomly classified into four groups, including control, LPS, crocin 50 and crocin 100. The rats were treated with either crocin (50 and 100 mg/kg) or saline for a week. Later, LPS (1 mg/kg, i.p.) or saline was administered, and treatments with crocin or saline were continued for 3 more weeks. The behavioral tasks for spatial and aversive memories were performed by the Morris water maze and passive avoidance tasks from post-injection days 18 to 24. Furthermore, the levels of interleukine-1β, lipid peroxidation and total thiol were assayed in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex.

RESULTS

Our results demonstrated that treatment of LPS-treated rats with crocin decreased the escape latency in the Morris water maze and increased the time spent in the target quadrant in the probe trial. Moreover, crocin increased step-through latency in the passive avoidance test. However, there was no significant difference in the oxidative and neuroinflammatory responses among the experimental groups.

CONCLUSION

Pretreatment with crocin attenuates spatial or aversive learning and memory deficits in LPS-treated rats.

The effects of concurrent treatment of silymarin and lactulose on memory changes in cirrhotic male rats

Introduction: Chronic liver disease frequently accompanied by hepatic encephalopathy (HE). Changes in the permeability of the blood-brain barrier in HE, make an easier entrance of ammonia among other substances to the brain, which leads to neurotransmitter disturbances. Lactulose (LAC), causes better defecation and makes ammonia outreach of blood. Silymarin (SM) is a known standard drug for liver illnesses. The purpose of this research was to determine the results of LAC and SM combined treatment, on the changes in memory of cirrhotic male rats. Methods: The cirrhotic model established by treatment with thioacetamide (TAA) for 18 weeks. Cirrhotic rats randomized to four groups (n = 7): TAA group (received drinking water), LAC group (2 g/kg/d LAC in drinking water), SM group (50 mg/kg/d SM by food), SM+ LAC group (similar combined doses of both compounds) for 8 weeks. The control group received drinking water. The behavior examined by wire hanging (WH), passive avoidance (PA), and open field (OF) tests.

Results: Our findings showed that treatment with SM+LAC effectively increased PA latency, compared with the control group. The results showed that the administration of LAC and SM+LAC affected the number of lines crossed, the total distance moved and velocity in the OF tests.

Conclusion: SM and LAC have anti-inflammatory effects that are memory changing. It may be due to their useful effects. These results indicated that SM+LAC restored memory disturbance and irritated mood in the cirrhotic rats. Comparable neuroprotection was never previously informed. Such outcomes are extremely promising and indicate the further study of SM+LAC.

Effects of carvacrol and physical exercise on motor and memory impairments associated with Parkinson's disease

The present study was undertaken to investigate the effects of carvacrol and treadmill exercise on memory deficit, rotational behavior and oxidative stress biomarkers in a 6-OHDA-lesioned rat model of Parkinson's disease. Wistar rats were treated with carvacrol at a dose of 25 mg/kg and/or ran on a treadmill for a week. Then, 6-OHDA was microinjected into the medial forebrain bundle and treatments continued for six more weeks. Aversive memory, rotational behavior and oxidative stress biomarkers were assessed at the end of week six. The 6-OHDA-lesioned group showed a significant increase in rotational behavior and a decrease in step-through latency in the passive avoidance test compared with the sham group. These behaviors were accompanied by increased lipid peroxidation levels and decreased total thiol concentration in the striatum and/or hippocampus of the hemiparkinsonian rats. Moreover, treatment with carvacrol and exercise reduced rotational behavior and improved aversive memory deficit, which was accompanied by decreased lipid peroxidation levels and increased total thiol concentration in the striatum and/or hippocampus. In conclusion, treatment with carvacrol and treadmill exercise ameliorated motor and memory deficits by modulating oxidative stress in the striatum and hippocampus of hemiparkinsonian rats. Therefore, the combination of carvacrol and treadmill exercise could be an effective therapeutic tool for treatment of neurobehavioral deficits in Parkinson's disease patients.

Effects of Boswellia serrata resin extract on motor dysfunction and brain oxidative stress in an experimental model of Parkinson's disease

OBJECTIVE

Boswellia serrata oleo-gum resin (frankincense) exerted antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects against several diseases, such as; asthma, rheumatoid arthritis and irritable bowel syndrome. In the current study, the influences of B. serrata resin extract on motor dysfunction and oxidative stress markers were investigated in the intrastriatal 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) model of Parkinson's disease (PD).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The animals were randomly assigned to sham, lesion (6-OHDA), and three lesion groups treated with ethyl alcoholic extract of B. serrata at doses of 125, 250 and 500 mg/kg for 3 weeks. The neurotoxin 6-OHDA (12.5 µg) was microinjected into the left striatum to induce PD in male rats. Motor behavior was assessed by rotational and elevated narrow beam tests. Oxidative stress markers were measured in striatal and midbrain homogenates.

RESULTS

There was a significant increase in contralateral rotations in 6-OHDA group versus sham group (p<0.001), and treatment with B. serrata resin extract at doses of 125 and 250 mg/kg significantly decreased the rotations in comparison to 6-OHDA group (p<0.001 and p<0.001, respectively). The 6-OHDA group also showed considerable elevation in the latency to initiate crossing (p<0.001) and the total time (p<0.001) on narrow beam test. Moreover, treatment with B. serrata extract at doses of 125, 250 and 500 mg/kg caused a significant reduction in the latency and total time (p<0.001, p<0.001, and p<0.01, respectively). Biochemical analysis showed no significant difference in oxidative stress markers levels among the groups.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that B. serrata resin extract acts as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agent that protects nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons and improve motor impairments in PD.

Pretreatment with crocin along with treadmill exercise ameliorates motor and memory deficits in hemiparkinsonian rats by anti-inflammatory and antioxidant mechanisms

The motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease (PD) are preceded by non-motorized symptoms including memory deficits. Treatment with dopamine replacement medications, such as L-DOPA only control motor symptoms and does not meet the clinical challenges of the disease, such as dyskinesia, non-motor symptoms, and neuroprotection. The purpose of the current study was to examine the neuroprotective potential of crocin and physical exercise in an animal model of PD. Male Wistar rats ran on a horizontal treadmill and/or pretreated with crocin at a dose of 100 mg/kg. Then, 16 μg of the neurotoxin 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) was microinjected into left medial forebrain bundle. Crocin treatment and/or exercise continued for 6 more weeks. Spatial and aversive memories, rotational behaviour, inflammatory and oxidative stress parameters were assessed at the end of week 6 post surgery. The results showed that pretreatment with crocin alone and in combination with exercise decreased the total number of rotaions as compared with 6-OHDA-lesioned group. Furthermore, treatment of parkinsonian rats with crocin along with exercise training improved aversive and spatial memories. Biochemical analysis showed that crocin and exercise (alone and in combination) reduced tumor necrosis factor- (TNF) α levels in the striatum. Moreover, treatment with crocin at a dose of 100 mg/kg decreased the lipid peroxidation levels in the hippocampus, while exercise training increased the total thiol concentration. In conclusion, our findings indicated that pretreatment with crocin along with treadmill exercise ameliorated motor and memory deficits induced by 6-OHDA, which is considered to be due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. The results suggest that combined therapy with crocin and exercise may be protective for motor and memory deficits in PD patients.

Chronic treatment with carvacrol improves passive avoidance memory in a rat model of Parkinson's disease

ABSTRACT The present study investigated the effects of carvacrol on motor and memory deficits as well as hyperalgesia in the 6-OHDA-lesioned rat model of Parkinson's disease. The animals were subjected to unilateral microinjection of 6-OHDA into the medial forebrain bundle and treated with carvacrol (25, 50 and 100 mg/kg, ip) for six weeks after surgery. The 6-OHDA-lesioned rats showed contralateral rotations towards the lesion side, which was accompanied by learning and memory deficits in a passive avoidance test and a decrease in tail withdrawal latency in a tail flick test at the end of week 6. The results also showed that treatment with carvacrol at a dose of 25 mg/kg ameliorated memory deficits, with no effect on rotations and hyperalgesia in lesioned rats. In conclusion, carvacrol improves memory impairments in rats with Parkinson's disease; therefore, it may serve as an adjunct therapy for the alleviation of memory deficits in Parkinson's disease patients.

Effect of intra-hippocampal injection of human recombinant growth hormone on synaptic plasticity in the nucleus basalis magnocellularis-lesioned aged rats

In this study, we proposed that administration of hippocampal growth hormone in ageing animals with growth hormone deficiency can compensate long-term potentiation and synaptic plasticity in nucleus basalis magnocellularis (NBM)-lesioned rats. Aged male Wistar rats were randomly divided into six groups (seven in each) of sham-operated healthy rats (Cont); NBM-lesioned rats (L); NBM-lesioned rats and intrahippocampal injection of growth hormone vehicle (L + Veh); NBM-lesioned and intrahippocampal injection of growth hormone (10, 20 and 40 µg.2 µl-1) (L + GH). In vivo electrophysiological recording techniques were used to characterize maintenance of long-term potentiation at distinct times (1, 2, 3, 24 and 48 hours) after high-frequency stimulation. The population spike was enhanced significantly for about 48 hours following tetanic stimulation in rats treated with a dose-dependent growth hormone compared to the vehicle group (p < 0.05), possibly through neuronal plasticity and neurogenesis in affected areas.

Effects of lactulose and silymarin on liver enzymes in cirrhotic rats

Silymarin, a mixture of antihepatotoxic flavonolignans used in the treatment of liver diseases, and lactulose, a nonabsorbable synthetic disaccharide, were investigated to analyze their probable synergic and healing effects in a hepatic cirrhotic rat model. Liver damage was induced by the administration and subsequent withdrawal of thioacetamide. The significant decrease in liver enzymes and malondialdehyde levels confirmed the curative effects of silymarin and lactulose. In the silymarin + lactulose group, liver enzyme and malondialdehyde levels were significantly reduced compared with those in the thioacetamide group. All treatments led to liver regeneration and triggered enhanced regeneration. Silymarin and lactulose alone or in combination have potent curative effects and reduce thioacetamide-induced liver damage.

Crocin improves spatial learning and memory deficits in the Morris water maze via attenuating cortical oxidative damage in diabetic rats

The purpose of the current study was to examine the influence of crocin on improving spatial memory deficits and cerebral oxidative damage in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Crocin was administered intraperitoneally daily at doses of 15, 30 and 60mg/kg for 6 weeks. Spatial memory performance was measured in rats by the Morris water maze paradigm. Lipid peroxidation and total thiol levels as parameters of oxidative stress were assessed in the cerebral cortex at the end of week 6. Diabetic rats showed spatial learning and memory deficits in the Morris water maze which was accompanied by increased lipid peroxidation levels in the cerebral cortex. By contrast, chronic treatment with crocin (15, 30 and 60mg/kg, ip, 6 weeks) improved cognitive performance and lowered hyperglycaemia and oxidative stress in diabetic rats. In conclusion, the results suggest that beneficial effects of crocin on streptozotocin-induced memory dysfunction may be attributed to its antidiabetic and antioxidant activity, which could find clinical use in treating cognitive dysfunction in diabetics.

Rheum turkestanicum rhizomes possess anti-hypertriglyceridemic, but not hypoglycemic or hepatoprotective effect in experimental diabetes

OBJECTIVE

Rheum turkestanicum (R. turkestanicum) rhizomes have been used in Iranain traditional medicine as an anti-diabetic agent. The purpose of the present investigation was to evaluate the anti-diabetic and antioxidant activities of R. turkestanicum rhizome extract in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Diabetes was induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of 55 mg/kg streptozotocin in male Wistar rats. Diabetic rats received the decoction extract of R. turkestanicum rhizomes at the doses of 200, 400 and 600 mg/kg daily by gavage for 3 weeks. Serum glucose and lipid levels were measured in all groups before diabetes induction and at the end of week 3. Oxidative stress was evaluated in the liver by measurement of malondialdehyde levels and total thiol concentration at the end of the experiment.

RESULTS

A significant increase in serum glucose and triglyceride levels was observed in diabetic rats, which was accompanied by increased malondialdehyde levels and decreased total thiol concentration in the liver after 3 weeks. Treatment of diabetic rats with R. turkestanicum rhizome extract at the doses of 200, 400 and 600 mg/kg over a 3-week period did not change serum glucose, hepatic malondialdehyde and total thiol levels in diabetic rats. However, treatment with R. turkestanicum extract significantly decreased serum triglyceride levels in a dose-dependent manner at the end of the experiment.

CONCLUSION

R. turkestanicum rhizome extract possess anti-hypertriglyceridemic, but not hypoglycemic or hepatoprotective effect in diabetic rats. Therefore, R. turkestanicum rhizome should be consumed with more caution by diabetic patients.

The Effects of Crocin on 6-OHDA-Induced Oxidative/Nitrosative Damage and Motor Behaviour in Hemiparkinsonian Rats

BACKGROUND

Crocin is considered to prevent oxidative stress-related diseases, such as ischemia and Alzheimer's. The aim of the present investigation was to evaluate the effects of crocin on motor behaviour and 6-OHDA-induced oxidative/nitrosative damage to the striatum in an experimental model of Parkinson's disease.

METHODS

Left medial forebrain bundle was lesioned by microinjection of 6-OHDA (16μg in 0.2% ascorbate-saline). Crocin (30 and 60 mg/kg) was injected intraperitoneally three days before surgery until six weeks. Rotational behaviour and biochemical analysis were used to evaluate the effect of crocin in a unilateral 6-OHDA-induced model of Parkinson's disease.

RESULTS

The contralateral rotations induced by apomorphine in 6-OHDA lesioned group were highly significant (P < 0.001) as compared to the sham group. Moreover, chronic administration of crocin at doses of 30 and 60 mg/kg over six weeks did not change the rotations. The TBARS and nitrite levels in the striatum were also significantly (P < 0.05) increased in lesioned group. Treatment with crocin at a dose of 60 mg/kg significantly decreased the nitrite levels (P < 0.05) in the striatum.

CONCLUSION

Crocin at a dose of 60 mg/kg could be effective in preventing the nitrosative damage in the striatum. Further investigations using higher doses of crocin is suggested to get the full neuroprotective effects of crocin in Parkinson's disease.

Effects of crocin on brain oxidative damage and aversive memory in a 6-OHDA model of Parkinson’s disease

ABSTRACT The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of crocin on brain oxidative damage and memory deficits in a 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) model of Parkinson’s disease. Male Wistar rats were subjected to unilateral injection of 6-OHDA (16 µg) into the medial forebrain bundle and treated with crocin (30 and 60 mg/kg) for six weeks. The rats were tested for memory performance at six weeks after 6-OHDA infusion, and then were killed for the estimation of biochemical parameters. The increase in thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and nitrite levels in the hippocampus were observed in the 6-OHDA lesioned rats, which was accompanied by memory deficits in a passive avoidance test at the end of week 6. Moreover, treatment with crocin decreased TBARS and nitrite levels in the hippocampus, and improved aversive memory. The present study conclusively demonstrated that crocin acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent in the hippocampus of parkinsonian rats and could improve aversive memory through its properties.

Renal injury, nephrolithiasis and Nigella sativa: A mini review

OBJECTIVE

The incidence and prevalence of kidney stone is increasing worldwide. After the first recurrence the risk of subsequent relapses is higher and the time period between relapses is shortened. Urinary stones can be severely painful and make a huge economic burden. The stone disease may increase the vulnerability of patients to other diseases such as renal failure. Medicinal herbs are rich sources of antioxidants which are increasingly consumed globally for their safety, efficacy and low price. Nigella sativa is a spice plant that is widely used for prevention and treatment of many ailments in Muslim countries and worldwide. This review aims at investigation of the effects of Nigella sativa on renal injury and stone formation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The scientific resources including PubMed, Scopus, and Google scholar were searched using key words such as: nephrolithiasis, urolithiasis, kidney/renal stone, renal injury, renal failure, urinary retention and black seed, black cumin, Nigella sativa and thymoquinone.

RESULTS

N. sativa and its main component, thymoquinone showed positive effects in prevention or curing kidney stones and renal failure through various mechanism such as antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, anti-eicosanoid and immunomodulatory effects. The putative candidate in many cases has been claimed to be thymoquinone but it seems that at least in part, particularly in kidney stones, the herbal melanin plays a role which requires further investigation to prove.

CONCLUSION

N. sativa and its components are beneficial in prevention and curing of renal diseases including nephrolithiasis and renal damages.

Effects of fenugreek seeds on adipogenesis and lipolysis in normal and diabetic rats

Several studies support hypolipidemic effect of fenugreek in normal and diabetic subjects. However, very little is known about the possible direct action of fenugreek on adipose tissue. The present study was designed to investigate the effects of fenugreek seeds on adipogenesis and lipolysis. Preadipocytes were isolated from adipose tissue of normal rats and differentiated to adipocyte in the presence of ethanolic extract of fenugreek seeds. The effect of this extract on lipolysis was also evaluated in fat tissue isolated from diabetic rats. Fenugreek led to a significant reduction in lipid droplet accumulation as evaluated with Oil Red O staining. Incubation of preadipocytes with the extract for 24 h resulted in significant decrease in cell viability. The extract, even at high concentrations (up to 1000 μg mL(-1)), had virtually no significant effect on lipolysis. The present data demonstrated that fenugreek seed inhibits formation of new differentiated adipocytes from precursor cells through an anti-proliferative effect on preadipocytes.

Effects of Hydroalcoholic Extract of Watercress (Nasturtium Officinale) Leaves on Serum Glucose and Lipid Levels in Diabetic Rats

OBJECTIVE

Hyperlipidemia is a known complication of diabetes mellitus and predisposes to coronary heart disease. The lowering of total cholesterol and low density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol should reduce the incidence of coronary disease. The aim of the present study was to examine the antihyperlipidemic and antidiabetic effects of the hydroalcoholic extract of watercress (Nasturtium officinale) leaves in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.

METHODS

Female Wistar rats were randomly divided into 4 groups: control, diabetic and diabetic rats treated with the extract of watercress (Nasturtium officinale) at doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg. Diabetic rats received the watercress extract daily in drinking water for 4 weeks since the day after diabetes confirmation. The levels of serum glucose and lipids were spectrophotometrically measured in all groups at weeks 0 (before diabetes induction), 2 and 4.

RESULTS

There was a significant increase in serum glucose, triglycerides, total cholesterol, and LDL-cholesterol in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats, accompanied by a decrease in high density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol. The treatment of diabetic rats with hydroalcoholic extract of watercress (Nasturtium officinale) leaves over a 4-week period significantly reduced serum glucose, total cholesterol and LDL- cholesterol in comparison with diabetic untreated rats.

CONCLUSION

Our findings demonstrated that a 4-week treatment with watercress extract at a dose of 200 mg/kg has hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effects in streptozotocin-diabetic rats. This implies that the consumption of watercress leaves can be helpful in reducing the complications of hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia associated with diabetes.

Antihyperglycemic and antihyperlipidemic effects of hydroalcoholic extract of Securigera securidaca seeds in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

Background:

Hyperlipidemia is an associated complication of diabetes mellitus. Lowering of serum lipid levels seems to be associated with a decrease in the risk of vascular disease and related complications. The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the antihyperglycemic and antihyperlipidemic effects of the hydroalcoholic extract of Securigera securidaca seeds in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.

Materials and Methods:

Female Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups as follows: Control, diabetic, and diabetic rats treated with the Securigera extract at doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg. The animals were rendered diabetic by a single intraperitoneal injection of 55 mg/kg streptozotocin. Diabetic rats received the Securigera extract daily in drinking water from the day on which diabetes was confirmed for 4 weeks. The levels of serum glucose and lipids were spectrophotometrically measured in all groups at weeks 0 (before diabetes induction), 2, and 4.

Results:

The results showed that there was a significant increase in serum glucose, triglycerides, total cholesterol, and low density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats, accompanied by a decrease in high density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol. Treatment of diabetic rats with S. securidaca seed extract at a dose of 200 mg/kg over a 4-week period significantly reduced the levels of serum glucose, total cholesterol, and LDL-cholesterol and increased the level of HDL-cholesterol, compared to diabetic untreated rats.

Conclusions:

Securigera extract at a dose of 200 mg/kg exhibited hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic activities in streptozotocin-diabetic rats during the 4-week treatment period. This provides a valid scientific basis for using it in the treatment of diabetes in Iranian folk medicine.

Effects of melatonin on biochemical factors and food and water consumption in diabetic rats

Background:

Diabetic neuropathy is one of the serious problems due to microvessel vasculopathy in diabetes. It has been reported that hyperglycemia and hypertriglyceridemia are the underlying mechanisms in inducing and progression of diabetic neuropathy. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of melatonin on serum glucose and lipid levels, as well as food consumption and water intake in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.

Materials and Methods:

Eighty male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to six groups including; normal control group, diabetic control group and 4 diabetic experimental groups that received melatonin intraperitoneally at doses of 2.5, 5, 10, and 20 mg/kg at the end of sixth week after verification of neuropathy by means of evaluation of sciatic nerve conduction velocity (MNCV), for two weeks. Blood glucose and lipid levels, body weight, the amounts of food consumption, and water intake were determined in all groups at weeks 0 (before diabetes induction), 3, 6, and at the end of eighth week.

Results:

Treatment with melatonin reduced significantly the serum glucose (P < 0.001) and triglyceride (P < 0.05) levels, food consumption (P < 0.001), and water intake (P < 0.001) in diabetic rats at the end of eighth week. However, melatonin had no significant effect on body weight of diabetic animals.

Conclusions:

Treatment with melatonin could improve several signs of diabetes, including hyperglycemia, hypertriglyceridemia, polyphagia, and polydipsia. Therefore, melatonin may be used as an adjunct therapy in the treatment of diabetes.

The role of local renin-angiotensin system on high glucose-induced cell toxicity, apoptosis and reactive oxygen species production in PC12 cells

OBJECTIVES

Hyperglycemia, oxidative stress and apoptosis have key roles in pathogenesis of diabetic neuropathy. There are local renin-angiotensin systems (RASs) in different tissues such as neural tissue. Local RASs are involved in physiological and pathophysiological processes such as inflammation, proliferation and apoptosis. This study aimed to investigate the role of local renin-angiotensin system on high glucose-induced cell toxicity, apoptosis and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in PC12 cells, as a cell model of diabetic neuropathy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

PC12 cells were exposed to a high glucose concentration (27 mg/ml), captopril (ACE inhibitor), telmisartan and losartan (AT1 antagonists), and also PD123319 (AT2 antagonist) were administered before and after induction of high glucose toxicity. Then cell viability was assessed by MTT assay and apoptotic cells and intracellular ROS production were detected by annexin V-propidium iodide and DCFDA, respectively, using flow cytometry.

RESULTS

High glucose concentration decreased cell viability, and increased apoptotic cells. Intracellular ROS production was also increased. In PC12 cells pretreatment and treatment by the drugs showed a significant improvement in cell viability and reduced apoptosis in captopril, telmisartan and PD123319 but only captopril and telmisartan were able to reduce ROS production. Losrtan significantly lowered ROS but didn't show any improvements in cell viability and apoptotic cells.

CONCLUSION

The results of the present study showed that RAS inhibitors reduced cell toxicity and apoptosis and ROS production was induced by high glucose. It may be suggested that local RAS has a role in high glucose toxicity.

Effect of aqueous extract of Rheum ribes on cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in rat

Objective:

The purpose of the present study was to examine whether Rheum ribes extract prevents cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity.

Materials and Methods:

The animals were divided into three groups: Group A considered as control group, group B were treated with cisplatin (3 mg/kg B.W. for 3 alternative days), and group C further to cisplatin received the aqueous extract of Rheum ribes (150 mg/rat).

Results:

Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level increased in group B on days 14 and 42 compared to day 0 (P < 0.001); it was also increased in group B vs. group A on day 14 (P < 0.001). Rheum ribes extract decreased the serum BUN level on day 14 compared to group B (P < 0.001). Serum creatinine level in group B had a similar profile as serum BUN level but Rheum ribes had no effect on blood creatinine level. Serum cholesterol level was increased in group B on days 14 and 42 compared to day 0 (P < 0.001). Also, cholesterol level was significantly increased in group B when compared to group A on day 14 (P < 0.001). Rheum ribes decreased the blood cholesterol level on day 42 in comparison to group B (P < 0.001). Serum glucose level was increased in group B on days 14 and 42 vs. day 0 (P < 0.001). Also, glucose level was significantly increased in group B when compared to group A on day 42 (P < 0.001). Rheum ribes increased the serum glucose level on days 14 and 42 compared to day 0 (P < 0.05). Histology of kidneys exposed to cisplatin showed renal injury, but Rheum ribes had no effect on the kidney architecture.

Conclusion:

Cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity was confirmed in our study. Although Rheum ribes had some effects on biochemical parameters; its effect on renal histology in injured kidney was insignificant.

Effects of valerian consumption during pregnancy on cortical volume and the levels of zinc and copper in the brain tissue of mouse fetus

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the present study was to determine the effects of valerian (Valeriana officinalis) consumption in pregnancy on cortical volume and the levels of zinc and copper, two essential elements that affect brain development and function, in the brain tissues of mouse fetuses.

METHODS

Pregnant female mice were treated with either saline or 1.2 g/kg body weight valerian extract intraperitoneally daily on gestation days (GD) 7 to 17. On GD 20, mice were sacrificed and their fetuses were collected. Fetal brains were dissected, weighed and processed for histological analysis. The volume of cerebral cortex was estimated by the Cavalieri principle. The levels of zinc and copper in the brain tissues were measured by atomic absorption spectroscopy.

RESULTS

The results indicated that valerian consumption in pregnancy had no significant effect on brain weight, cerebral cortex volume and copper level in fetal brain. However,it significantly decreased the level of zinc in the brain (P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Using valerian during midgestation do not have an adverse effect on cerebral cortex; however,it caused a significant decrease in zinc level in the fetal brain. This suggests that valerian use should be limited during pregnancy.

Brain tissue oxidative damage as a possible mechanism for the deleterious effect of a chronic high dose of estradiol on learning and memory in ovariectomized rats

In addition to antioxidative effects, estrogens also exert pro-oxidative actions. The effect of chronic administration of a high dose of estradiol valerate on Morris water maze tasks and brain tissues oxidative damage was investigated. The Sham-Est and OVX-Est groups were treated with estradiol valerate (4 mg/kg) for 12 weeks. Escape latency and traveled path in the Sham-Est and OVX-Est groups were significantly higher than in the Sham and OVX groups (p≪0.01 and p≪0.001). In the probe trial, the animals of the Sham-Est and OVX-Est groups spent lower time in Q1 compared to Sham and OVX groups (p≪0.05 and p≪0.001). In Sham-Est and OVX-Est groups, the brain tissue total thiol concentration was significantly lower, and malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations were higher than in the Sham and OVX groups (p≪0.05 and p≪0.001). It is concluded that administration of high exogenous levels of estradiol impairs performance and enhances oxidative stress.

The preventive effect of N-butanol fraction of Nigella sativa on ethylene glycol-induced kidney calculi in rats

Background:

The current study was carried out to determine whether the aqueous-ethanolic extract or the butanolic fraction of Nigella sativa (NS) seeds could prevent or reduce calculi aggregation in experimental calcium oxalate nephrolithiasis in Wistar rats.

Materials and Methods:

Male Wistar rats were randomly divided into 5 groups: group A received tap drinking water for 28 days. Groups B, C, D and E received 1% ethylene glycol for induction of calcium oxalate (CaOx) calculus formation for 28 days. Rats in groups C, D and E also received aqueous-ethanolic extract of NS, N-butanol fraction and N-butanol phase remnant of NS, respectively, in drinking water at a dose of 250 mg/kg for 28 days. Urine concentration of oxalate, citrate, and calcium on days 0, 14, and 28, and also serum concentration of magnesium and calcium on days 0 and 28, were measured. On day 29, kidneys were removed for histopathologic study and examined for counting the calcium oxalate deposits in 10 microscopic fields.

Result:

Treatment of rats with N-butanol fraction and N-butanol phase remnant of NS significantly reduced the number and size of kidney calcium oxalate deposits compared with ethylene glycol group. Urinary concentration of oxalate in all experimental groups increased compared with control group on days 14 and 28, whereas the urine citrate concentration was lower in all experimental groups compared with control group on days 14 and 28.

Conclusion:

N-butanol fraction and N-butanol phase remnant of NS showed a beneficial effect on calcium oxalate deposition in the rat kidney. Therefore, the butanolic fraction of NS may be suggested for prevention of calcium oxalate calculi in humans.

Alcea rosea root extract as a preventive and curative agent in ethylene glycol-induced urolithiasis in rats

Introduction:

Alcea rosea L. is used in Asian folk medicine as a remedy for a wide range of ailments. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of hydroalcoholic extract of Alcea rosea roots on ethylene glycol-induced kidney calculi in rats.

Materials and Methods:

Male Wistar rats were randomly divided into control, ethylene glycol (EG), curative and preventive groups. Control group received tap drinking water for 28 days. Ethylene glycol (EG), curative and preventive groups received 1% ethylene glycol for induction of calcium oxalate (CaOx) calculus formation; preventive and curative subjects also received the hydroalcoholic extract of Alcea rosea roots in drinking water at dose of 170 mg/kg, since day 0 or day 14, respectively. Urinary oxalate concentration was measured by spectrophotometer on days 0, 14 and 28. On day 28, the kidneys were removed and examined histopathologically under light microscopy for counting the calcium oxalate deposits in 50 microscopic fields.

Results:

In both preventive and curative protocols, treatment of rats with hydroalcoholic extract of Alcea rosea roots significantly reduced the number of kidney calcium oxalate deposits compared to ethylene glycol group. Administration of Alcea rosea extract also reduced the elevated urinary oxalate due to ethylene glycol.

Conclusion:

Alcea rosea showed a beneficial effect in preventing and eliminating calcium oxalate deposition in the rat kidney. This effect is possibly due to diuretic and anti-inflammatory effects or presence of mucilaginous polysaccharides in the plant. It may also be related to lowering of urinary concentration of stone-forming constituents.

Effect of alcoholic extract of Nigella sativa on cisplatin-induced toxicity in rat

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to test whether Nigella sativa (NS) seeds can reduce cisplatin-induced toxicity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty rats were divided into 3 groups to receive distilled water (control group), cisplatin (3 mg/kg per body weight for 3 days), and cisplatin and alcoholic extract of NS (100 mg/kg per body weight). Biochemical and histopathologic parameters were compared between the three groups on days 14 and 42 of the study.

RESULTS

Blood urea nitrogen increased in the cisplatin and NS groups on days 14 and 42 compared to day 0 (P < .001). It was significantly in the cisplatin than in the control group on day 14 (P < .001). Serum creatinine had a similar profile in the cisplatin and NS groups as blood urea nitrogen. Serum triglyceride increased in the cisplatin and NS groups on day 14, but it decreased on day 42 (P < .05). Urine glucose concentration decreased in the cisplatin group on days 14 and 42 compared to day 0 (P < .001), and the same trend was seen in the NS group (P < .001). Histology of the kidneys exposed to cisplatin showed significant kidney injury, but the rats treated with NS showed a relatively well-preserved architecture.

CONCLUSIONS

Cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity was confirmed in our study. Nigella sativa seeds had nonsignificant effects on biochemical parameters, although the histopathologic properties of the kidneys relatively recovered after NS use.

The beneficial effect of cynodon dactylon fractions on ethylene glycol-induced kidney calculi in rats

PURPOSE

To assess the beneficial effect of different fractions of Cynodon dactylon (C. dactylon) on ethylene glycol-induced kidney calculi in rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Male Wistar rats were randomly divided into control, ethylene glycol, curative, and preventive groups. The control group received tap drinking water for 35 days. Ethylene glycol, curative, and preventive groups received 1% ethylene glycol for induction of calcium oxalate (CaOx) calculus formation. Preventive and curative subjects also received different fractions of C. dactylon extract in drinking water at 12.8 mg/kg, since day 0 and day 14, respectively. After 35 days, the kidneys were removed and examined for histopathological findings and counting the CaOx deposits in 50 microscopic fields.

RESULTS

In curative protocol, treatment of rats with C. dactylon N-butanol fraction and N-butanol phase remnant significantly reduced the number of the kidney CaOx deposits compared to ethylene glycol group. In preventive protocol, treatment of rats with C. dactylon ethyl acetate fraction significantly decreased the number of CaOx deposits compared to ethylene glycol group.

CONCLUSION

Fractions of C. dactylon showed a beneficial effect on preventing and eliminating CaOx deposition in the rat kidney. These results provide a scientific rational for preventive and treatment roles of C. dactylon in human kidney stone disease.

Study of sympathetic skin response in visceral leishmaniasis

BACKGROUND

Neurologic changes in visceral leishmaniasis are rarely reported. Some articles have reported symptoms suggestive of peripheral neuropathy and showed some degree of axonal degeneration and demyelination. The main purpose of the present study was to identify and quantitatively evaluate sympathetic dysfunction in VL.

METHOD

Twenty patients with visceral leishmaniasis and 20 healthy controls were studied. All the patients and controls were examined at first and skin sympathetic response was measured in all of the patients and control group by standard protocol.

RESULTS

The patients had mean age of 24.2 +/- 17.8 months. The SSR to the electrical stimulus was absent in 10 patients with VL. In four patients all responses were present and, in four patients only one response from hand or foot was present and, in two cases responses were present from both hands. For right median nerve, median latency was 2.4 (min: 1.19, max: 6.92) seconds.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion impairment of SSR was demonstrated electrophysiologically in the patients with visceral leishmaniasis.

Ascorbate reduces morphine-induced extracellular DOPAC level in the nucleus accumbens: A microdialysis study in rats

Most drugs of abuse increase dopamine and 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) release in the shell of the nucleus accumbens. The effects of ascorbate, which is known to modulate dopamine neurotransmission, on the extracellular level of DOPAC in the nucleus accumbens of naive rats and of rats treated acutely with morphine were studied by using in vivo microdialysis and high performance liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection (HPLC-ECD). Acute morphine (20 mg/kg ip) treatment increased the level of DOPAC in the nucleus accumbens to approximately 170% of basal level. Acute treatment with ascorbate (500 mg/kg ip) alone did not alter nucleus accumbens' DOPAC level, but pretreatment with ascorbate (500 mg/kg ip) 30 min before morphine administration attenuated the effects of acute morphine on the level of DOPAC. These results suggest that ascorbate modulates the mesolimbic dopaminergic pathway.