Chronic ethanol and nicotine interaction on rat tissue antioxidant defense system

Ethanol consumption and cigarette smoking are common in societies worldwide and have been identified as injurious to human health. This study was undertaken to examine the interactive effects of chronic ethanol and nicotine consumption on the antioxidant defense system in different tissues of rat. Male Fisher-344 rats were divided into four groups of five animals each and treated for 6.5 weeks as follows: (1) Control rats were administered normal saline orally; (2) ethanol (20% [wt./vol.]) was given orally at a dose of 2 g/kg; (3) nicotine was administered subcutaneously at a dose of 0.1 mg/kg; and (4) a combination of ethanol plus nicotine was administered by the route and at the dose described above. The animals were killed 20 h after the last treatment, and liver, lung, kidney, and testes were isolated and analyzed. Chronic ingestion of ethanol resulted in a significant depletion of glutathione (GSH) content in liver, lung, and testes, whereas chronic administration of nicotine significantly depleted GSH content in liver and testes. The combination of ethanol plus nicotine resulted in a significant depletion of GSH content in liver, lung, and testes. Ethanol, nicotine, or a combination of ethanol plus nicotine significantly increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in liver and decreased SOD activity in kidney. Ethanol, nicotine, or a combination of ethanol plus nicotine significantly decreased catalase (CAT) activity in liver and increased CAT activity in kidney and testes. Chronic ingestion of ethanol resulted in a significant decrease in glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity in liver and kidney, whereas a combination of ethanol plus nicotine increased GSH-Px activity in liver and decreased GSH-Px activity in kidney and testes. Ethanol, nicotine, or a combination of ethanol plus nicotine significantly increased lipid peroxidation, respectively, in liver. It is suggested that prolonged exposure to ethanol and nicotine produce similar, and in some cases additive, oxidative tissue injuries in rat.

Moringa Genus: A Review of Phytochemistry and Pharmacology

Moringa is a genus of medicinal plants that has been used traditionally to cure wounds and various diseases such as colds and diabetes. In addition, the genus is also consumed as a source of nutrients and widely used for purifying water. The genus consists of 13 species that have been widely cultivated throughout Asia and Africa for their multiple uses. The purpose of this review is to provide updated and categorized information on the traditional uses, phytochemistry, biological activities, and toxicological research of Moringa species in order to explore their therapeutic potential and evaluate future research opportunities. The literature reviewed for this paper was obtained from PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar journal papers published from 1983 to March 2017. Moringa species are well-known for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antihyperglycemic activities. Most of their biological activity is caused by their high content of flavonoids, glucosides, and glucosinolates. By documenting the traditional uses and biological activities of Moringa species, we hope to support new research on these plants, especially on those species whose biological properties have not been studied to date.

Long-term outcome of cognitive behavior therapy versus relaxation therapy for chronic fatigue syndrome: a 5-year follow-up study

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluated the long-term outcome of cognitive behavior therapy versus relaxation therapy for patients with chronic fatigue syndrome.

METHOD

Sixty patients who participated in a randomized controlled trial of cognitive behavior therapy versus relaxation therapy for chronic fatigue syndrome were invited to complete self-rated measures and participate in a 5-year follow-up interview with an assessor who was blind to treatment type.

RESULTS

Fifty-three patients (88%) participated in the follow-up study: 25 received cognitive behavior therapy and 28 received relaxation therapy. A total of 68% of the patients who received cognitive behavior therapy and 36% who received relaxation therapy rated themselves as "much improved" or "very much improved" at the 5-year follow-up. Significantly more patients receiving cognitive behavior therapy, in relation to those in relaxation therapy, met criteria for complete recovery, were free of relapse, and experienced symptoms that had steadily improved or were consistently mild or absent since treatment ended. Similar proportions were employed, but patients in the cognitive behavior therapy group worked significantly more mean hours per week. Few patients crossed the threshold for "normal" fatigue, despite achieving a good outcome on other measures. Cognitive behavior therapy was positively evaluated and was still used by over 80% of the patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Cognitive behavior therapy for chronic fatigue syndrome can produce some lasting benefits but is not a cure. Once therapy ends, some patients have difficulty making further improvements. In the future, attention should be directed toward ensuring that gains are maintained and extended after regular treatment ends.

Dose-dependent protection by lipoic acid against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats: antioxidant defense system

This study was designed to investigate the role of graded doses of lipoic acid pretreatment against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity. Male Wistar rats were divided into six groups and treated as follows: 1) vehicle (saline) control; 2) cisplatin (16 mg/kg, intraperitoneally); 3) lipoic acid (100 mg/kg, intraperitoneally); 4) cisplatin plus lipoic acid (25 mg/kg); 5) cisplatin plus lipoic acid (50 mg/kg) and 6) cisplatin plus lipoic acid (100 mg/kg). Rats were sacrificed three days after treatment, and plasma as well as kidneys were isolated and analyzed. Plasma creatinine increased (677% of control) following cisplatin administration alone which was decreased by lipoic acid in a dose-dependent manner. Cisplatin-treated rats showed a depletion of renal glutathione (GSH), increased oxidized GSH and decreased GSH/GSH oxidized ratio (62%, 166% and 62% of control), respectively which were restored with lipoic acid pretreatment. Renal superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase (GSH peroxidase) and glutathione reductase activities decreased (62%, 75%, 62% and 80% of control), respectively, and malondialdehyde content increased (204% of control) following cisplatin administration, which were restored with increasing doses of lipoic acid. The renal platinum concentration increased following cisplatin administration, which was possibly decreased by chelation with lipoic acid. The data suggest that the graded doses of lipoic acid effectively prevented a decrease in renal antioxidant defense system and prevented an increase in lipid peroxidation, platinum content and plasma creatinine concentrations in a dose-dependent manner.

Raging the War Against Inflammation With Natural Products

Over the last few decade Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) are the drugs of choice for treating numerous inflammatory diseases including rheumatoid arthritis. The NSAIDs produces anti-inflammatory activity via inhibiting cyclooxygenase enzyme, responsible for the conversation of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins. Likewise, cyclooxegenase-2 inhibitors (COX-2) selectively inhibit the COX-2 enzyme and produces significant anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-pyretic activity without producing COX-1 associated gastrointestinal and renal side effects. In last two decades numerous selective COX-2 inhibitors (COXIBs) have been developed and approved for various inflammatory conditions. However, data from clinical trials have suggested that the prolong use of COX-2 inhibitors are also associated with life threatening cardiovascular side effects including ischemic heart failure and myocardial infection. In these scenario secondary metabolites from natural product offers a great hope for the development of novel anti-inflammatory compounds. Although majority of the natural product based compounds exhibit more selectively toward COX-1. However, the data suggest that slight structural modification can be helpful in developing COX-2 selective secondary metabolites with comparative efficacy and limited side effects. This review is an effort to highlight the secondary metabolites from terrestrial and marine source with significant COX-2 and COX-2 mediated PGE2 inhibitory activity, since it is anticipated that isolates with ability to inhibit COX-2 mediated PGE2 production would be useful in suppressing the inflammation and its classical sign and symptoms. Moreover, this review has highlighted the potential lead compounds including berberine, kaurenoic acid, α-cyperone, curcumin, and zedoarondiol for further development with the help of structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies and their current status.

Ficus carica L. (Moraceae): Phytochemistry, Traditional Uses and Biological Activities

This paper describes the botanical features of Ficus carica L. (Moraceae), its wide variety of chemical constituents, its use in traditional medicine as remedies for many health problems, and its biological activities. The plant has been used traditionally to treat various ailments such as gastric problems, inflammation, and cancer. Phytochemical studies on the leaves and fruits of the plant have shown that they are rich in phenolics, organic acids, and volatile compounds. However, there is little information on the phytochemicals present in the stem and root. Reports on the biological activities of the plant are mainly on its crude extracts which have been proven to possess many biological activities. Some of the most interesting therapeutic effects include anticancer, hepatoprotective, hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, and antimicrobial activities. Thus, studies related to identification of the bioactive compounds and correlating them to their biological activities are very useful for further research to explore the potential of F. carica as a source of therapeutic agents.

Protection by ebselen against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity: antioxidant system

This study was designed to investigate the cisplatin-induced alteration in renal antioxidant system and the nephroprotection with ebselen. Male Wistar rats were injected with (1) vehicle control; (2) cisplatin; (3) ebselen; and (4) cisplatin plus ebselen. Rats were sacrificed three days post-treatment and plasma as well as kidney were isolated and analyzed. Plasma creatinine increased 598% following cisplatin administration alone which decreased by 158% with ebselen pretreatment. Cisplatin-treated rats showed a depletion of renal glutathione (GSH) levels (52% of control), while cisplatin plus ebselen injected rats had GSH values close to the controls. Antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities decreased 38, 75 and 62% of control, respectively, and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels increased 174% of control following cisplatin administration, which were restored to control levels after ebselen treatment. The renal platinum level did not significantly change with ebselen pretreatment. This study suggests that the protection offered by ebselen against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity is partly related to the sparing of antioxidant system.

Are investigations anxiolytic or anxiogenic? A randomised controlled trial of neuroimaging to provide reassurance in chronic daily headache

OBJECTIVES

Aims were to investigate (a) whether neuroimaging in patients with chronic daily headache reassures patients or fails to reassure them and/or worsens outcome, impacting on service use, costs, health anxieties, and symptoms, and (b) whether this reassurance process occurs differentially in patients with different levels of psychological morbidity.

DESIGN

randomised controlled trial; setting: headache clinic in secondary care, South London; participants: 150 patients fulfilling criteria for chronic daily headache, stratified using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS); intervention: treatment as usual or the offer of an MRI brain scan; main outcome measures: use of services, costs, and health anxiety.

RESULTS

Seventy six patients were randomised to the offer of a brain scan and 74 patients to treatment as usual. One hundred and thirty seven (91%) primary care case notes were examined at 1 year, 103 (69%) patients completed questionnaires at 3 months and 96 (64%) at 1 year. Sixty six (44%) patients were HADS positive (scored >11 on either subscale). Patients offered a scan were less worried about a serious cause of the headaches at 3 months (p = 0.004), but this was not maintained at 1 year; other health anxiety measures did not differ by scan status. However, at 1 year HADS positive patients offered a scan cost significantly less, by 465 pounds Sterling (95% confidence interval (CI): -1028 pounds Sterling to -104 pounds Sterling), than such patients not offered a scan, due to lower utilisation of medical resources.

CONCLUSIONS

Neuroimaging significantly reduces costs for patients with high levels of psychiatric morbidity, possibly by changing subsequent referral patterns of the general practitioner.

Family-focused cognitive behaviour therapy versus psycho-education for chronic fatigue syndrome in 11- to 18-year-olds: a randomized controlled treatment trial

BACKGROUND

Only one previous randomized controlled trial (RCT) has examined the efficacy of cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) for chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) in children. The aim of this study was to compare family-focused CBT with psycho-education for CFS in adolescents.

METHOD

Sixty-three 11- to 18-year-olds (43 girls, 20 boys) with CFS were randomly assigned to either family-focused CBT or psycho-education delivered over 6 months. School attendance was the main outcome, which was assessed at the end of treatment and at 3, 6 and 12 months follow-up.

RESULTS

At the main outcome point (the 6-month follow-up) both groups had improved similarly. However, although those who received family-focused CBT were attending school for longer than those who received psycho-education, at discharge from treatment and at 3 months follow-up, they improved less quickly across the follow-up period.

CONCLUSIONS

Adolescents with CFS get back to school more quickly after family-focused CBT. This is important as they are at a crucial stage of their development. However, the finding that psycho-education was as effective as family-focused CBT at 6 and 12 months follow-up has important implications for health service delivery.

Genistein: A Review on its Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Nowadays, non-resolving inflammation is becoming a major trigger in various diseases as it plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, asthma, cancer, obesity, inflammatory bowel disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, neurodegenerative disease, multiple sclerosis, and rheumatoid arthritis. However, prolonged use of anti-inflammatory drugs is usually accompanied with undesirable effects and hence more patients tend to seek for natural compounds as alternative medicine. Considering the fact above, there is an urgency to discover and develop potential novel, safe and efficacious natural compounds as drug candidates for future anti-inflammatory therapy. Genistein belongs to the flavonoid family, in the subgroup of isoflavones. It is a phytoestrogen that is mainly derived from legumes. It is a naturally occurring chemical constituent with a similar chemical structure to mammalian estrogens. It is claimed to exert many beneficial effects on health, such as protection against osteoporosis, reduction in the risk of cardiovascular disease, alleviation of postmenopausal symptoms and anticancer properties. In the past, numerous in vitro and in vivo studies have been conducted to investigate the anti-inflammatory potential of genistein. Henceforth, this review aims to summarize the anti-inflammatory properties of genistein linking with the signaling pathways and mediators that are involved in the inflammatory response as well as its toxicity profile. The current outcomes are analysed to highlight the prospect as a lead compound for drug discovery. Data was collected using PubMed, ScienceDirect, SpringerLink and Scopus databases. Results showed that genistein possessed strong anti-inflammatory activities through inhibition of various signaling pathways such as nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB), prostaglandins (PGs), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), proinflammatory cytokines and reactive oxygen species (ROS). A comprehensive assessment of the mechanism of action in anti-inflammatory effects of genistein is included. However, evidence for the pharmacological effects is still lacking. Further studies using various animal models to assess pharmacological effects such as toxicity, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and bioavailability studies are required before clinical studies can be conducted. This review will highlight the potential use of genistein as a lead compound for future drug development as an anti-inflammatory agent.

Dose- and time-dependent effects of ethanol on plasma antioxidant system in rat

This study investigates the dose- as well as time-dependent effects of ethanol ingestion on antioxidant system and lipid peroxidation in plasma of the rat. The plasma ethanol concentrations were 154+/-18, 231+/-53, and 268+/-49 mg/dl 1 h after oral ethanol doses of 2, 4, and 6 g/kg, respectively. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) (71%, 56%, and 41 % of control) and glutathione reductase (GR) (71%, 66%, and 55% of control) activity in plasma were significantly decreased in a dose-dependent manner. Catalase (CAT)/SOD and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px)/SOD ratios were significantly increased whereas GR/GSH-Px ratio was significantly decreased with increasing dose of ethanol. In a time course study, plasma ethanol concentrations were 177+/-9.7, 143+/-11, 99+/-17, and 26+/-11 mg/dl at 1.5, 2, 4, and 6 h after an oral dose (4 g/kg) of ethanol in rat indicating time-dependent elimination of ethanol. Plasma SOD and GSH-Px activity significantly increased 4-6 h whereas GR activity significantly decreased 2-4 h after ethanol ingestion. The ratio of GR/GSH-Px and the ratio of reduced glutathione (GSH) to oxidized glutathione (GSSG) in plasma decreased at 1.5-6 h after ethanol ingestion. Plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) levels significantly elevated with respect to an increase in time after ethanol ingestion, indicating time-dependent augmentation of lipid peroxidation. The data indicate that ethanol ingestion perturbs the plasma antioxidant system in a dose- and time-dependent manner. The significant changes in the ratios of CAT/SOD, GSH-Px/SOD, GR/GSH-Px, and GSH/GSSG in plasma may be used as an index of alcohol-induced oxidative stress.

Dose dependent protection by lipoic acid against cisplatin-induced ototoxicity in rats: antioxidant defense system

This study investigated the alterations that occur in auditory brainstem-evoked responses (ABRs) concurrent with changes in cochlear concentrations of glutathione (GSH), lipid peroxidation, and antioxidant enzyme activity in cisplatin-induced ototoxicity and in dose-dependent otoprotection by an antioxidant lipoate. Male Wistar rats were divided into different groups and were treated as follows, with: (1) vehicle (saline) control; (2) cisplatin (16 mg/kg, i.p.); (3) lipoate (100 mg/kg, i.p.) plus saline; (4) cisplatin plus lipoate (25 mg/kg); (5) cisplatin plus lipoate (50 mg/kg), and (6) cisplatin plus lipoate (100 mg/kg). Post-treatment ABRs were evaluated after three days, the rats were sacrificed, and cochleae were harvested and analyzed. The cisplatin-injected rats showed ABR threshold elevations above the pre-treatment thresholds. Rats treated with lipoate plus cisplatin did not show significant elevation of hearing thresholds. Cisplatin administration resulted in a depletion of cochlear GSH concentration (69% of control), whereas, cisplatin-plus-lipoate treatment increased GSH concentration close to control value. Cisplatin-treated rats showed a decrease in cochlear superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and glutathione reductase (GR) activities (57, 78, 59, and 58% of control, respectively), and an increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration (196% of control). Cochlear SOD, CAT, GSH-Px, and GR activities and MDA concentrations were restored in the rats injected with cisplatin plus graded doses of lipoate than those with cisplatin alone. It is concluded that cisplatin-induced ototoxicity is related to impairment of the cochlear antioxidant defense system, and the dose-dependent otoprotection conferred by an antioxidant lipoate against cisplatin ototoxicity is associated with sparing of the cochlear antioxidant defense system.

A Review on the Potential Use of Medicinal Plants From Asteraceae and Lamiaceae Plant Family in Cardiovascular Diseases

Cardiovascular diseases are one of the most prevalent diseases worldwide, and its rate of mortality is rising annually. In accordance with the current condition, studies on medicinal plants upon their activity on cardiovascular diseases are often being encouraged to be used in cardiovascular disease management, due to the availability of medicinal values in certain dedicated plants. This review was conducted based on two plant families, which are Asteraceae and Lamiaceae, to study on their action in cardiovascular disease relieving activities, to review the relationship between the phytochemistry of Asteraceae and Lamiaceae families and their effect on cardiovascular diseases, and to study their toxicology. The medicinal plants from these plant family groups are collected based on their effects on the mechanisms that affect the cardiovascular-related disease which are an antioxidant activity, anti-hyperlipidemic or hypocholesterolemia, vasorelaxant effect, antithrombotic action, and diuresis effect. In reference to various studies, the journals that conducted in vivo or in vitro experiments, which were used to prove the specific mechanisms, are included in this review. This is to ensure that the scientific value and the phytochemicals of the involved plants can be seen based on their activity. As a result, various plant species from both Asteraceae and Lamiaceae plant family have been identified and collected based on their study that has proven their effectiveness and uses in cardiovascular diseases. Most of the plants have an antioxidant effect, followed by anti-hyperlipidemia, vasorelaxant, antithrombotic, and diuretic effect from the most available to least available studies, respectively. These are the mechanisms that contribute to various cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attack, stroke, coronary heart disease, and hypertension. Further studies can be conducted on these plant species by identifying their ability and capability to be developed into a new drug or to be used as a medicinal plant in treating various cardiovascular diseases.

Dose response of ethanol on antioxidant defense system of liver, lung, and kidney in rat

This study investigated the alterations in levels of glutathione, lipid peroxidation, and antioxidant enzyme activity in the liver, lung, and kidney of rats treated with acute doses of ethanol. Male Fisher-344 rats were randomly divided into four groups, and were treated as follows: (1) vehicle (saline) control; (2) ethanol 2 g/kg, p.o.; (3) ethanol 4g/kg, p.o.; and (4) ethanol 6 g/kg, p.o. The animals were sacrificed 1 h after treatment, and tissues were isolated and analyzed. The hepatic GSH levels significantly decreased (73, 68, and 66% of control) due to ethanol ingestion at 2, 4, and 6g/kg, respectively. The hepatic GSH/GSSG ratio also decreased with increasing doses indicating stress response due to ethanol. The hepatic SOD activity significantly decreased (70, 75 and 71% of control) with graded doses of ethanol ingestion. The hepatic CAT/SOD and GSH-Px+CAT/SOD ratios significantly increased (147, 169 and 177% of control) and (140, 167 and 178% of control), respectively with increasing doses of ethanol. In the lung, graded doses of ethanol increased GSH-Px activity (120, 114 and 141% of control) and decreased GR activity (98, 89 and 89% of control), respectively. The MDA concentrations in the lung also increased after higher ethanol ingestion. Most of the antioxidant enzyme ratios increased with increasing doses of ethanol in the lung. In the kidney, GSH-Px activity increased (139, 119 and 151% of control), whereas GR activity decreased (84, 85 and 83% of control). GSH-Px/SOD and GSH-Px+CAT/SOD ratios increased whereas GR/GSH-Px ratio decreased after graded doses of ethanol. GSH levels in the kidney decreased after ethanol ingestion. MDA concentrations increased with increasing dose of ethanol in the kidney. These results showed the dose dependant and tissue specific changes in the antioxidant system after ethanol ingestion. Ethanol exerts oxidative stress on antioxidant systems of liver, lung and kidney in proportion to the amount of ethanol ingestion.

Interaction of exercise and ethanol on antioxidant enzymes in brain regions of the rat

This study investigates the effect of ethanol ingestion on antioxidant enzymes (AOE) and lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde, (MDA) in different brain regions of the rat after acute exercise. Acute exercise (100% VO2max) significantly increased glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity and decreased glutathione reductase (GR) activity in the cerebral cortex. Acute exercise significantly increased MDA level in the corpus striatum. Ethanol (20%) (1.6 g/kg, PO) significantly increased MDA level in the cerebral cortex. Ethanol also significantly increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in the cortex and catalase (CAT), GSH-Px, and GR activities in the corpus striatum. Ethanol significantly augmented CAT activity in the medulla and GSH-Px activity in the hypothalamus. However, CAT activity significantly decreased in the hypothalamus after ethanol ingestion. The combination significantly increased GSH-Px activity in the hypothalamus, SOD activity in the cortex, GR activity in the striatum, and MDA level in the medulla. In conclusion, the cerebral cortex, striatum medulla, and hypothalamus reacted differentially in response to ethanol as well as to acute exercise-induced oxidative stress whereas the combination moderated the changes in AOE activity in specific brain regions.

Dermal intoxication of mice with bis(2-chloroethyl)sulphide and the protective effect of flavonoids

The influence of dermal application of sulphur mustard (SM) on hepatic lipid peroxidation and the protective effect of flavonoids in SM toxicity was investigated. SM applied on the skin of mice (0.25 or 0.5 LD50) depleted glutathione (GSH) in blood and liver. Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in the liver showed an increase indicating lipid peroxidation. Administration of vitamin E or two flavonoids, gossypin (GN) and hydroxyethyl rutosides (HR) after dermal application of SM did not alter depletion of GSH but did reduce the MDA level significantly. Survival time of mice with 1 LD50 SM applied dermally was increased by GN and HR to a greater extent than by vitamin E or sodium thiosulphate probably due to one or more of the analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antihepatotoxic, antihistaminic, mast cell stabilization, lipid peroxidation inhibitory and free radical scavenging actions of the flavonoids. The present study indicates that dermally applied SM can induce lipid peroxidation and GSH depletion, and flavonoids may be beneficial in reducing the toxicity.

Response of cardiac antioxidant system to alcohol and exercise training in the rat

Recent evidence has shown that alcohol as well as exercise induces oxidative stress. However, the combination of both on the cardiac antioxidant system is not known. This study investigates the interactive effects of exercise training and chronic ethanol consumption on the antioxidant system of the rat heart. Male Fisher-344 rats were treated as follows: 1) sedentary control (SC); 2) exercise training (ET) for 6.5 weeks; 3) ethanol (2 g/kg, PO) for 6.5 weeks, and 4) ET plus ethanol for 6.5 weeks. Rats were sacrificed and hearts were isolated. Glutathione (GSH), oxidized glutathione (GSSG), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), glutathione reductase (GR), and lipid peroxidation (MDA) were determined in heart tissues. SOD and GSH-Px activities were significantly increased 118% and 148% of SC, respectively, due to ET. GSH level increased 118% of SC in ET rats. GSH-Px activity increased 118% of SC whereas SOD activity and CuZn-SOD protein level and GR activity decreased 87%, 71%, and 90% of SC due to chronic ethanol administration. GSH level decreased 87% of SC and lipid peroxidation increased 149% of SC due to ethanol consumption. GSH-Px activity and GSH levels increased 143% and 130% of SC due to combination of ET and ethanol. This study suggests that ET and chronic ethanol ingestion augments the antioxidant enzyme activity and GSH levels in the heart. This combination reduced the extent of ethanol-induced lipid peroxidation. The data suggest that ET may reduce the extent of the damage caused by ethanol consumption on the myocardium.

Effect of topically applied sulphur mustard on antioxidant enzymes in blood cells and body tissues of rats

The effect of sulphur mustard (0.5 LD50, percutaneous) on antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px)) in blood cells (erythrocytes (RBC), leucocytes (WBC) and platelets) and body tissues (liver, kidney, spleen and brain) of rats has been investigated 24 h post exposure. The SOD activity was significantly decreased in WBC, platelets, spleen and brain as compared to control. The CAT activity was significantly inhibited in RBC, WBC and spleen as compared to control. The GSH-Px activity was signficantly depressed in WBC, spleen and liver as compared to control. It is concluded that sulphur mustard at a sublethal dose inhibited antioxidant enzyme activities in WBC and spleen. Thus, antioxidant enzymes in lymphatic tissues may be used as suitable models for assessing mustard toxicity. The study suggests the formation of reactive oxygen species in sulphur mustard intoxication.

Protection by 4-methylthiobenzoic acid against cisplatin-induced ototoxicity: antioxidant system

This study was undertaken in order to determine the changes in auditory brainstem-evoked responses relationship with the changes in the levels of GSH, lipid peroxidation and antioxidant enzymes activity in cisplatin-induced ototoxicity and otoprotection by 4-methylthiobenzoic acid (MTBA). Male Wistar rats in different groups were treated as follows: 1) saline control; 2) cisplatin (16 mg/kg, intraperitoneally); 3) MTBA (250 mg/kg, intraperitoneally), and 4) cisplatin plus MTBA. Post-treatment auditory brainstem-evoked responses were performed after three days and the rats were sacrificed and cochleae harvested. The cochleae were analyzed for glutathione (GSH), antioxidant enzyme activity, and malondialdehyde levels. The cisplatin injected rats showed a threshold elevation of 31.9 +/- 16.0 dB above the pretreatment thresholds using click stimulus. Rats treated with MTBA plus cisplatin did not show significant elevation of hearing threshold. Cisplatin plus MTBA administration showed a higher levels of cochlear GSH (5.59 +/- 0.35 nmoles/mg protein) compared to cisplatin alone (4.46 +/- 0.13 nmoles/mg protein). Cisplatin treated rats showed a decrease in superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase (GSH-peroxidase), and glutathione reductase (GSH-reductase) activities (57%, 83%, 78% and 58% of control). Cochlear superoxide dismutase, catalase and GSH-reductase activities and MDA levels were restored in the rats injected with cisplatin plus MTBA, compared to cisplatin alone. It is concluded that the protection conferred by MTBA against cisplatin ototoxicity is associated with sparing of the cochlear antioxidant system.

Carboplatin-induced oxidative stress in rat cochlea

Carboplatin is currently being used in the clinic against a variety of human cancers. However, high dose carboplatin chemotherapy resulted in ototoxicity in cancer patients. This is the first study to show carboplatin-induced oxidative stress response in the cochlea of rat. Male Wistar rats were divided into two groups of six animals each and treated as follows: (1) control (normal saline, i.p.) and (2) carboplatin (256 mg/kg, i.p.). Animals in both groups were sedated with ketamine/xylazine and auditory brainstem-evoked responses were recorded before and 4 days after treatments. The animals were sacrificed on the fourth day and cochleae were harvested and analyzed. A significant elevation of the hearing threshold shifts was noted at clicks, 8, 16, and 32 kHz tone burst stimuli following carboplatin administration. Carboplatin significantly increased nitric oxide and malondialdehyde levels, xanthine oxidase and manganese-superoxide dismutase activities in the cochlea indicating enhanced flux of free radicals. Cochlear glutathione levels, antioxidant enzyme activities such as copper zinc-superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase and glutathione S-transferase and enzyme protein levels were significantly depleted 4 days after carboplatin treatment. The data suggest that carboplatin induced free radical generation and antioxidant depletion, and caused oxidative injury in the cochleae of rats.

Interaction of exercise training and chronic ethanol ingestion on hepatic and plasma antioxidant system in rat

This study was undertaken in order to investigate the interactive effects of exercise training and chronic ethanol consumption on the antioxidant system in rat liver and plasma. Fisher-344 rats were treated in separate groups as follows: sedentary control (SC); exercise training (ET) for 6.5 weeks; ethanol 20% (2.0 g kg-1, p.o.) for 6.5 weeks; and ET and ethanol administration. In liver, ET significantly decreased the malondialdehyde (MDA) level (73% of SC). Chronic ethanol significantly increased catalase (CAT) activity and MDA levels (126% and 135% of SC), respectively, and also depleted the reduced glutathione (GSH) level and the reduced to oxidized glutathione (GSH/GSSG) ratio (81% and 38% of SC), respectively. Exercise training plus ethanol significantly increased CAT and glutathione reductase (GR) activity (126% and 118% of SC), respectively, and decreased the MDA level (67% of SC). In plasma, ethanol significantly enhanced CAT activity and MDA levels (173% and 221% of SC), respectively. Ethanol ingestion also increased the CAT/superoxide dismutase (SOD) ratio (216% of SC) in plasma. Training plus ethanol ingestion significantly increased CAT activity and MDA levels (208% and 148% of SC), respectively, and increased CAT/SOD and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px)/SOD ratios (279% and 142% of SC), respectively. The data indicate that the combination of exercise and ethanol ingestion resulted in an enhanced hepatic CAT and GR activity to eliminate H2O2 and to maintain endogenous GSH levels. Thus, training ameliorated the ethanol-induced oxidative injury in the liver. The ratio of CAT/SOD in plasma increased twofold due to chronic ethanol intake and threefold due to the combination, which may be used as an index of oxidative stress.

Nephroprotective effects of Zingiber zerumbet Smith ethyl acetate extract against paracetamol-induced nephrotoxicity and oxidative stress in rats

Paracetamol (PCM) overdose can cause nephrotoxicity with oxidative stress as one of the possible mechanisms mediating the event. In this study, the effects of ethyl acetate extract of Zingiber zerumbet rhizome [200 mg per kg of body weight (mg/kg) and 400 mg/kg] on PCM-induced nephrotoxicity were examined. Rats were divided into five groups containing 10 rats each. The control group received distilled water while other groups were treated with extract alone (400 mg/kg), PCM alone (750 mg/kg), 750 mg/kg PCM+200 mg/kg extract (PCM+200-extract), and 750 mg/kg PCM+400 mg/kg extract (PCM+400-extract), respectively, for seven consecutive days. The Z. zerumbet extract was given intraperitoneally concurrent with oral administration of PCM. Treatment with Z. zerumbet extract at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg prevented the PCM-induced nephrotoxicity and oxidative impairments of the kidney, as evidenced by a significantly reduced (P<0.05) level of plasma creatinine, plasma and renal malondialdehyde (MDA), plasma protein carbonyl, and renal advanced oxidation protein product (AOPP). Furthermore, both doses were also able to induce a significant increment (P<0.05) of plasma and renal levels of glutathione (GSH) and plasma superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity. The nephroprotective effects of Z. zerumbet extract were confirmed by a reduced intensity of renal cellular damage, as evidenced by histological findings. Moreover, Z. zerumbet extract administered at 400 mg/kg was found to show greater protective effects than that at 200 mg/kg. In conclusion, ethyl acetate extract of Z. zerumbet rhizome has a protective role against PCM-induced nephrotoxicity and the process is probably mediated through its antioxidant properties.

Interaction of exercise training and chronic ethanol ingestion on testicular antioxidant system in rat

Recent evidence has indicated that exercise as well as ethanol exerts oxidative stress on vital organs/tissues of the body. However, the combination of both on the testicular antioxidant system is not known. This study investigates the interactive effects of exercise training and chronic ethanol ingestion on the testicular antioxidant system in rats. Male Fisher-344 rats were treated as follows: sedentary control (SC); exercise training (ET) for 6.5 weeks; ethanol (2 g kg(-1), p.o.) for 6.5 weeks; and ET plus ethanol for 6.5 weeks. Exercise training significantly decreased copper-zinc superoxide dismutase (CuZn-SOD) activity and enzyme protein concentration (73% and 67% of SC), whereas manganese SOD (Mn-SOD) and catalase (CAT) activity significantly increased (157% and 141% of SC) in the testes of rat. Exercise training significantly decreased the testicular malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration (70% of SC). Chronic ethanol ingestion significantly decreased testicular CuZn-SOD activity, enzyme protein concentration and CAT activity (65, 70 and 47% of SC) in rats. Ethanol significantly increased the testicular MDA level (129% of SC). The combination of exercise training and chronic ethanol ingestion significantly decreased testicular CuZn-SOD protein, MDA and the reduced glutathione oxidized glutathione ratio (GSH/GSSG) by 62, 70 and 79%, respectively. The data suggest that exercise training provides protection whereas chronic ethanol ingestion exerts oxidative damage to the testes of rat. Exercise training seems to reduce the extent of oxidative damage caused by ethanol on the testes of rats.

Preliminary structure determination of the capsular polysaccharide of Vibrio cholerae O139 Bengal Al1837

Vibrio cholerae O139 Bengal has recently been identified as a cause of epidemic cholera in Asia. In contrast to V. cholerae O1, V. cholerae O139 Bengal has a polysaccharide capsule. As determined by high-performance anion-exchange chromatography and 1H nuclear magnetic resonance analysis, the capsular polysaccharide of V. cholerae O139 Bengal strain Al1837 has six residues in the repeating subunit; this includes one residue each of N-acetylglucosamine, N-acetylquinovosamine (QuiNAc), galacturonic acid (GalA), and galactose and two residues of 3,6-dideoxyxylohexose (Xylhex). The proposed structure is [formula: see text]

Interaction of exercise training and chronic ethanol ingestion on antioxidant system of rat brain regions

This study investigates the interactive effects of chronic ethanol ingestion and exercise training on the antioxidant system and lipid peroxidation in cortex, cerebellum, medulla, striatum and hypothalamus of the rat brain. Exercise training (6.5 weeks) significantly increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in striatum, the region associated with motor activity, but decreased SOD activity in other brain regions. Catalase (CAT) activity decreased significantly in hypothalamus, the region associated with behavior, due to exercise. The training significantly increased glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity in brain regions studied with the exception of cerebellum. In addition, glutathione reductase (GR) activity increased in brain regions, with the exception of medulla. The training significantly decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in all brain regions studied, which is due to training adaptation. Ethanol (20%) (2.0 g kg[-1], p.o. for 6.5 weeks) significantly decreased SOD activity in all regions except cortex, CAT activity in cortex, striatum and hypothalamus, GSH-Px activity in cerebellum and GR activity in medulla. Similarly, ethanol significantly decreased the GSH level in cortex, medulla and striatum and the GSH/GSSG ratio in medulla and cerebellum. Conversely, ethanol significantly augmented GR activity in cortex, cerebellum and striatum. When ethanol and exercise were combined, there was significantly increased SOD and CAT activity in striatum, GSH-Px activity in cortex, striatum and hypothalamus and GR activity in cortex and striatum. The GSH level was significantly depleted in cortex, striatum and medulla. Combining training and ethanol also decreased MDA levels in medulla and cerebellum. In conclusion, the sensitivity of specific brain regions in reaction to chronic ethanol ingestion or training is a function of variability in antioxidant system activity. Thus, exercise training protects specific brain regions against ethanol-induced oxidative injury.