Soluble Fibrin Monomer Complexes, Plasma Fibrinolytic Activity and Aortic Wall

It has been stated that in prolonged CS2 intoxication of albino rats, the percentage of soluble fibrin monomer complexes in blood increases and there is a drop in plasma fibrinolytic activity. Simultaneous serotonin administration lowers the fibrinolytic activity to still greater extent. Prolonged CS2 intoxication does not alter the antiparacoagulating activity of the aorta. Deseril and cinarine administration elevates the aortic antiparacoagulating activity, while serotonin decreases it.

The influence of active components of Eleutherococcus senticosus on cellular defence and physical fitness in man

The influence of active components of Eleutherococcus senticosus, contained in Taiga Wurzel preparation, were studied on cellular defence and physical fitness in man. 50 healthy volunteers of both sexes were selected, and basic clinical examination and laboratory tests were performed in all subjects. All were randomly subdivided into two study groups: group A with 35 subjects receiving Taiga Wurzel and group B with 15 subjects receiving Echinacea. 20 healthy males were randomly selected from both groups and underwent an ergospirometric study. The preparations were administered for 30 days as follows: Taiga Wurzel 25 drops three times daily, Echinacea 40 drops three times daily. After 1 month blood was drawn for control tests. Changes in the following blood parameters were observed in comparison to initial values in group A: total and LDL cholesterol, triglycerides and glucose. No alterations were seen in group B. The ergospirometric test revealed a higher oxygen plateau in group A (Taiga Wurzel). On the basis of the present study the following conclusions were drawn: active components in Eleutherococcus senticosus contained in Taiga Wurzel preparation affect cellular defence and physical fitness, as well as lipid metabolism.

The influence of exogenous antioxidants and physical exercise on some parameters associated with production and removal of free radicals

Metabolic processes generate chemically active forms of oxygen, among which a prominent role is played by the superoxide ion. Cells are equipped with defence systems against the effects of superoxide radicals, superoxide dismutase is the most important one. The organism depends on the delivery of exogenous antioxidants, like selenium, vitamins E and C. Physical exercise triggers the production of superoxide radicals, which can at least partly be responsible for muscular damage. This work has studied the effect of Protection Zellaktiv (Smith Kline Beecham, Fink Naturarznei GmbH), a preparation containing selenium, vitamins C, E, B2, niacin and beta-carotene on the activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase, levels of glutathione malondialdehyde selenium, iron, zinc, triglicerides, total cholesterol, HDL- and LDL-cholesterol, before and after physical exercise. Muscle status was monitored by the activities of lactic dehydrogenase and creatine kinase. Protecton Zellaktiv was administered orally for one month, the measurements were repeated and the results before and after treatment were compared. It was found that treatment diminished the levels of malondialdehyde and zinc in serum, as well as cholesterol and triglicerides. Physical exercise before treatment decreased the levels of reduced glutatione, zinc and triglycerides. As expected, the levels of selenium were increased by the preparation. Protecton Zellaktiv suppressed the production of malondialdehyde during physical exercise. The preparation had a beneficial effect on lipid levels and it is inferred that lipid peroxidation was suppressed.

Comparative pharmacokinetics and bioavailability of flavonoid glycosides of Ginkgo biloba after a single oral administration of three formulations to healthy volunteers

Eighteen healthy volunteers received three different formulations of Ginkgo biloba: capsules (A) and drops (B) (delivered by Agon Pharma), and tablets (C) (Tebonin-Dr. W. Schwabe) in equal an quantity, orally as a single dose, at an interval of at least five days. The pharmacokinetic parameters of the most important flavonoid glycosides: quercetin, kaempferol and isorhamnetin were established. The bioavailability was estimated using capsules as a standard formulation. Only the time to reach the peak concentration (tmax) of quercetin, kaempforol and isorhamnetin administered in the form of capsules, was significantly prolonged as compared with drops and tablets. Area under the curve (AUC) was the largest for formulation B for all the evaluated flavonoid glycosides, however the differences were not statistically significant. It is concluded that the three formulations of Ginkgo biloba extract are bioequivalent.

Extractum Fagopyri reduces atherosclerosis in high-fat diet fed rabbits

A group of 30 male mongrel rabbits was divided into 3 subgroups: controls, animals receiving a high-fat diet (HFD) containing cholesterol and coconut oil, HFD + Extr. Fagopyri (EF) were treated for 12 weeks. Surface areas of lipid deposites after 12 weeks of treatment measured planimetrically in the intima of the aorta, averaged 86.5% in HFD-fed animals, but 68.6% in EF treated rabbits. The positive effect of EF was confirmed histopathologically. The finding of this study is that the EF administration results in the reduction of atherosclerotic plaque formation.

Clinical efficacy of 'essential' phospholipids in patients chronically exposed to organic solvents

A total of 45 workers, who had been chronically exposed to a potentially hepatotoxic xylene-toluene-benzene mixture in the atmosphere, were treated for 3 months with 'essential' phospholipids. Routine biochemical tests and radioisotope investigations to assess liver damage were carried out both at baseline and after treatment. The liver:spleen index was increased in 71% of subjects and the mean isotope transit time in the liver was reduced in 90% of the patients after treatment. The biochemical parameters remained within the normal range throughout the treatment period. The results suggest that 'essential' phospholipids may be of value in the treatment of liver damage that has arisen as a result of chronic exposure to organic solvents.

Caffeine reduces the hepatotoxicity of paracetamol in mice

Paracetamol causes extensive liver damage when taken in overdose quantities; however, it is less hepatotoxic when administered in combination with caffeine. The present work in mice was undertaken to study the effect of caffeine on mortality rates and biochemical and histological parameters of liver damage after administration of toxic doses of paracetamol. It was found that caffeine markedly increased the survival rate after administration of a dose of paracetamol that was lethal to 50% and 100% of mice, reduced liver damage as assessed by serum glutamic pyruvic and glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase activities, partially prevented the depletion of reduced glutathione and reduced histological changes to the liver accompanying paracetamol intoxication. The results support the possibility that caffeine might be useful for the treatment of paracetamol intoxication in humans.

Essential phospholipids modify immunological functions and reduce experimental atherosclerosis in rabbits

Atherosclerosis was induced in male mongrel rabbits with a high-fat diet and the influence of essential phospholipids (EPL) on plaque formation, parameters of lipid metabolism and immunological functions was studied. When EPL were added to the high-fat diet there was a significant reduction in the area of atherosclerotic involvement of the aorta. The serum concentration of lipids decreased, often to normal values, and cholesterol esterified with polyunsaturated fatty acids appeared. Normalization of the malonyldialdehyde level in plasma was accompanied by a decrease in the concentration of ascorbate free radicals in blood and liver. The high-fat diet caused a depression of both non-specific and specific immune functions studied. With EPL in the diet the tests showed near normal or normal values. It is inferred from these results that a normal state of the immune system is important for preventing the progress of atherosclerotic changes. This is discussed with reference to the role of some immune cells in the metabolism of lipids and to participation of essential phospholipids in plasma membrane functions.

Protective effect of selenium and vitamin E against changes induced in heart vessels of rabbits fed chronically on a high-fat diet

The effect of selenium and vitamin E on lipid level in the blood serum, on the oxygen free radicals generation and on morphology of heart was tested after separate and combined administration to mongrel male rabbits fed on a high-fat diet (HFD). The lipid level and oxygen free radical generation was depressed markedly in animals fed on a HFD and receiving simultaneously selenium and vitamin E. In animals on a HFD the walls of the heart vessels were thickened, always to their complete obliteration. The presence of lipid droplets in endocardium could be observed as well. The hearts of the rabbits receiving selenium showed markedly fewer atheromatously changed vessels. Moreover, no accumulation of lipid droplets was seen in the endocardium of these animals. The least atherosclerotic alterations were observed in the myocardium of rabbits given HFD with addition of selenium and vitamin E in combination, no accumulation of lipids was shown in endocardium of these rabbits. An important finding of this study is, that the combination of selenium and vitamin E results in an intensified protective effect against changes evoked in the heart muscle of rabbits fed on a HFD.

Effect of selenium and vitamin E on the development of experimental atherosclerosis in rabbits

Male mongrel rabbits, divided into 5 groups (1) controls, (2) animals receiving a high-fat diet (HFD) containing cholesterol and coconut oil, (3) HFD + selenium, (4) HFD + vitamin E, (5) HFD + selenium + vitamin E, were treated for 12 weeks. In the groups receiving selenium and/or vitamin E, the elevation of serum total lipids, beta-lipoproteins, total cholesterol and triglyceride was markedly suppressed. HDL cholesterol in these groups of animals was increased. The cytochrome P-450 content in liver microsomes was increased, and the concentration of malondialdehyde in the blood plasma of rabbits was significantly decreased, while thyroid hormones (T4, T3), cortisol and insulin level were increased. Surface area of the lipid deposits at 12 weeks measured planimetrically averaged 76% in HFD-fed animals but only 28% in selenium + vitamin E treated rabbits. The important finding of this study is that combination of selenium and vitamin E, results in an intensified effect on the improvement of metabolic processes and on the reduction of atherosclerotic plaque formation.

Derivatives of (R,S)-1-N-(theophyllinyl-7'-ethyl)-amino-2-propanol with antiarrhythmic activity

Three (R,S)-1-N-(theophyllinyl-7'-ethyl)-amino-2-propanol derivatives were obtained as soluble hydrochlorides and tested in four models of experimental arrhythmia. Two compounds 1a and 2 have shown antiarrhythmic properties and very low toxicity.

Inhibition of ethanol-induced changes in rats by Padma 28

In male Wistar rats the protective effect of Padma 28 against changes induced by prolonged treatment with ethyl alcohol was investigated. Exposure of the animals to prolonged ethyl alcohol consumption caused a significant increase in AspAT (by 32%), A1AT (by 50%) and alkaline phosphatase (by 372%) activities as well as an increase in the levels of bilirubin (by 98%) and lipids in the blood serum and lipids in the liver homogenate. Padma 28 administration was found to exert a protective action against these changes: a significant reduction of blood total lipid, triacylglycerol, total cholesterol and bilirubin concentrations as well as in the activity of the liver enzymes was observed.

Endocrine functions in atherosclerotic rabbits

Radioimmunoassay of serum thyroid hormones (T3 and T4), testosterone, estradiol, insulin and cortisol of rabbits fed on a high-fat diet (coconut oil, cholesterol, cholic acid) for three months and developing experimental atherosclerosis (confirmed by biochemical tests and morphological changes in the aorta) have revealed an increase in the content of estradiol and insulin, and a decline in the level of thyroid hormones and testosterone.

The influence of mestranol and chlormadinone given separately or in combination on the effects evoked by a high-fat diet in female rabbits

The effect of mestranol and chlormadinone, the hormones contained in oral contraceptives: on lipid metabolism, some hemostatic parameters and on morphology of aorta, liver and heart was tested after separate or combined administration to mongrel female rabbits fed on a normal or high-fat diet (HFD). HFD administration led to typical atheromatous changes in the aortal intima. The hormones given together with HFD attenuated the augmentation of lipid serum level and the extent of atheromatous plaques in the intima. The percent content of alpha-lipoproteins was significantly lower in groups receiving HFD with or without the hormones than in the controls, but it was higher than in controls in the rabbits receiving the hormones alone. Chlormadinone given together with HFD potentiated atheromatous aortal changes, which occurred not only in the intima but also in the media. Mestranol given together with HFD significantly counteracted the development of atheromatous changes. Female rabbits receiving mestranol and chlormadinone displayed a significant increase in fibrinogen content, while those receiving mestranol showed an increased time of fibrinolysis. HFD produced a hepatic damage, which was augmented in rabbits concomitantly receiving the hormones. The hormones alone also displayed some, a less pronounced hepatotoxic action.

[Hypolipidemic effect of the new diprophylline derivative, [2-hydroxy-3-(theophylline-7-ol] propyl ester of 4-benzylhydroxybenzoic acid]

A new derivative of diprophylline--[2-hydroxy-3(theophylline-7-ol)] propyl ester 4-benzyloxybenzoic acid was shown to decrease the content of cholesterol and of atherogenic lipoproteins in blood serum of hyperlipidemic guinea pigs. In blood serum of rabbits the new substance studied decreased cholesterol, free fatty acids and malonic dialdehyde concentrations.

(RS), (R)(-) and (S)(+) derivatives of 2-N-arylalkylamino-1-butanol having antiarrhythmic properties

A series of theophyllinyl-7'-ethyl derivatives of (RS), (R)(-) and (S)(+) 2-aminobutanol were synthesized and tested in various models of experimental arrhythmia for their preventive and curative properties; (R)(-) 2-N-theophyllinyl-7'-ethyl amino-1-butanol (1a) and (R)(-) theophyllinyl-7'-ethyl-2-N-methylamino-1-butanol (3a) hydrochlorides showed interesting antiarrhythmic properties. The levorotatory compounds of R configuration showed stronger protective and also therapeutic effect in different experimental arrhythmias.

Hypolipemic and potential antiatherosclerotic properties of diprophyllinyl-4-benzyloxybenzoate

To assess the hypolipemic and antiatherosclerotic activity of diprophyllinyl-4-benzyloxybenzoate guinea-pigs were kept on a high-lipid diet alone or with the tested compound for 21 days, and rabbits--for 3 months. It was found that diprophyllinyl-4-benzyloxybenzoate displays a distinct hypolipemic activity, particularly with respect to cholesterol, both in guinea-pigs and rabbits. It also depresses the cholesterol and the trigliceride content in liver homogenates and shows a tendency to normalize the low-density-lipoprotein fraction in guinea-pigs, as well as cholesterol of the high-density lipoprotein fraction, and malon dialdehyde in rabbits. The area of intima covered with atheromatous plaques was smaller in rabbits receiving the high-lipid diet with diprophyllinyl-4-benzyloxybenzoate than in those receiving that diet alone.

Effect of pollen extract on the development of experimental atherosclerosis in rabbits

Our previous studies have shown that the pollen extract, Cernitin, reveals lipid-lowering properties in animals and humans. The present study was designed to investigate the influence of Cernitin on the development of experimental atherosclerosis in rabbits over a period of 12 weeks. Forty male mongrel rabbits were divided into 4 equal groups: (1) controls, (2) animals receiving high-fat diet (HFD) containing cholesterol and coconut oil, (3) HFD + pollen extract, and (4) HFD + clofibrate. The most pronounced reduction in lipid metabolism and in the severity of plaque formation occurred after the pollen extract had been applied. The total cholesterol content in serum and liver homogenate was depressed by 67% and 45%, respectively, while the serum HDL cholesterol and alpha-lipoproteins level was increased by 19% and from 7.73% to 21.73% respectively. The cytochrome P-450 content in the liver microsomes was elevated by 98% (nmol/g liver). Atherosclerotic plaque intensity at 12 weeks, measured planimetrically, averaged 85.5% in HFD-fed animals vs 33.7% in pollen extract-treated rabbits. These findings suggest that Cernitin, in addition to significantly lowering serum lipid levels in rabbits on an experimental diet, may modify lipid deposition in major arteries.

The effect of colchicine on the development of experimental atherosclerosis in rabbits

The effect of colchicine on the course of experimental atherosclerosis was investigated in rabbits receiving for 3 months a high-lipid diet (HLD) in addition to the basal diet. Colchicine was given in a dose of 0.2 mg/kg ip twice a week. An evident antiatherosclerotic action of colchicine was demonstrated both by macroscopic and microscopic investigation of the aorta. The level of blood total lipids was significantly depressed, and the level of triglycerides was back to normal. The content of total lipids in liver homogenates was similar to that in the controls. A significant decline in the fibrinogen concentration in the blood of rabbits receiving colchicine was also found.

The effect of amino acid derivative of clofibric acid (WKLB-5), and theophylline monoester of nicotinic acid (ME1) on the development of experimental atherosclerosis in rabbits

In order to determine the efficacy of new compounds--an amino acid derivative of clofibric acid (WKLB-5), and a theophylline monoester of nicotinic acid (ME1)--a high fat diet (HFD) was applied to rabbits for 3 months, with or without the above mentioned compounds. The HFO included coconut oil, cholesterol and cholic acid. A substantial hypolipemic activity of those compounds was demonstrated; however, the studied lipid fractions did not undergo normalization, except FFA whose level after ME1 administration was distinctly lower than in control animals. Sudanophilic changes were found on 83% of surface of the interior membrane of aorta in rabbits kept on the HFD only, on 35% of surface--in rabbits treated with the HFD + WKLB-5, and on 75% of surface--in rabbits treated with the HFD + ME1. Thus in those animals no parallelism between the hypolipemic and antiatherosclerotic activities was observed.

A search for a model of experimental atherosclerosis: comparative studies in rabbits, guinea pigs and rats

Rabbits, guinea pigs and rats received for 3 months a high lipid diet containing coconut oil and cholesterol, separately or in combination. The blood lipid content was assayed. Lipoproteins were separated into fractions by agarose electrophoresis. The aorta, heart and liver were investigated macro- and microscopically. The most pronounced changes in lipid metabolism appeared as a consequence of combined administration of coconut oil and cholesterol; they were most expressed in rabbits, less in guinea pigs, and most weakly in rats. Typical atherosclerotic lesions were observed only in rabbit's aorta. They were accompanied by a marked depression of the percentage content of alpha-lipoproteins in blood serum.

Experimental model of hyperlipidemia in rats

Rats conceived for 14 days high-lipid diet containing coconut oil and cholesterol, given in various doses, separately or in combination, with or without cholic acid. Lipid serum fractions were assayed and lipoproteins were separated by agarose electrophoresis. The model of alimentary hyperlipidemia consisting of feeding rats for 14 days with a diet containing coconut oil (10 g/kg/day), cholesterol (4 g/kg/day) and cholic acid (0.2 g/kg/day) is proposed.

Experimental atherosclerosis model in domestic pigs. Part II. Electrocardiographic and morphologic investigation

Experimental atherosclerosis was produced in domestic pigs by administration for 24 weeks a high lipid diet containing cholesterol and coconut oil. ECG changes were not uniform: negative T, prolonged intraventricular conduction, and premature ventricular beats were observed. Macroscopic and microscopic anatomo-pathological studies revealed atheromatous changes in the aorta.

The effect of N-(3, 5, 5-trimethyl-2-pyrazolino-1-carbonimidoyl)-guanidine hydrochloride (BPC-151) on lipid metabolism of rats and pigs

The effect of BPC-151 on the lipid level in the rat and pig blood serum and on the lipid content in the homogenate of rat liver, on pyruvate and lactate in the blood serum of pigs, and on aggregation of blood platelets in pigs was investigated. Hyperlipidemia was induced by administration for 6 months a high lipid diet containing coconut oil, cholesterol and cholic acid. The hypolipemic action of BPC-151, particularly against the increase in free fatty acids, was demonstrated. The investigated compound did not affect the level of lactate in the pig blood serum but depressed the aggregation of blood platelets.

A model of experimental atherosclerosis in pigs. Part I. Study on blood lipids and coagulation

Pigs received for 24 weeks a high-lipid diet containing cholesterol and coconut oil. Blood lipid fractions were assayed, electrophoretic separation of lipoproteids was carried out, and tests for blood coagulation parameters (fibrinogen content, partial thromboplastin time, paracoagulation test, blood platelets aggregation) were carried out. In the blood serum of experimental animals the content of triglycerides, cholesterol, free fatty acids, lipid phosphorous and beta-lipoproteids gradually increased. A hyperlipidemia corresponding to type IV of Fredrickson was obtained. No parallel changes in the results of studies on blood coagulation parameters were observed.

Effect of papaverine and atropine on pharmacokinetics of paracetamol administered orally

The effect of intramuscular injection of atropine and papaverine on the pharmacokinetics of a single oral dose of paracetamol in healthy men was investigated. The open two-compartment model was applied and the calculations were performed using a program for the Hewlett-Packard 9830 B system. An increase of the extent of bioavailability of paracetamol was observed after the atropine administration, however the absorption of the drug was delayed. The administration of papaverine did not change the AUC and Cmax, but tmax was significantly longer.

The effect of new furanochrome derivatives on circulatory system and respiratory activity of experimental animals

Six new compounds of furanochromone group were tested for their acute toxicity (LD50), the effect on arterial blood pressure, respiratory activity of the cat, the effect on ECG and antiarrhythmic activity. All compounds produce a moderate hypotension. Protection against BaCl2-induced arrhythmia is offered by hydrochlorides of N-2-morpholino-etyl ester of alpha-2-methyl-8-methoxyfurano (3', 2' :6,7)-chromonoxy-5-butyric acid, 3, and of N, N-diethylaminoethyl ester of alpha-2-methyl-8-methoxyfurano-(3', 2' : 6,7)-chromonoxy-5-propionic acid, 4. These compounds show the weakest hypotensive activity. The most potent hypotensive action is produced by hydrochlorides of N,N-diethylaminoethyl ester of alpha-2-methyl-8-methoxyfurano (3', 2' : 6,7)-chromonoxy-5-butyric acid 1, and of N-/2-piperidinoethyl ester of alpha-2-methyl-8-methoxyfurano(3', 2' : 6,7)-chromonoxy-5-propionic acid, 5, (short-lasting action).

The influence of atherogenic diet and "essential" phospholipids upon the contents of noradrenaline and dopamine in the brain of rats and their exploratory activity

The influence of atherogenic diet and "essential" phospholipids (EPL) both on exploratory activity and catecholamine content in the brain of rats has been examined. The atherogenic diet caused a decrease of the animals' exploratory activity as well as a diminution of catecholamines. It was observed that these changes correlated. Prophylactic administration of EPL is capable of preventing such changes. Therapeutic administration of EPL increased exploratory activity and catecholamines in the atherogenic group which subsequently received the basic laboratory diet.