Selenium mitigates methotrexate-induced testicular injury: Insights from male NMRI mice model

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Chemotherapy, particularly with methotrexate (MTX), often elicits testicular toxicity, leading to impaired spermatogenesis and hormone imbalances. This study aimed to investigate the potential protective effects of selenium (Se) against MTX-induced testicular injury.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Male mice were divided into control, MTX, Se, and MTX + Se groups. Histopathological examination involved the preparation of testicular tissue sections using the Johnsen's tubular biopsy score (JTBS) for spermatogenesis evaluation. Biochemical tests included the assessment of testosterone, malondialdehyde (MDA), luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was employed to analyze the expression of caspase 3 (casp3), tumor protein 53 (p53), B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl2), and Bcl2-associated X protein (Bax) genes. Statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA and Tukey's tests (p < .05).

RESULTS

Histopathological analysis revealed significant testicular damage in the MTX group, with decreased spermatogenesis and Leydig cell count, while Se administration mitigated these effects, preserving the structural integrity of the reproductive epithelium. Biochemical analysis demonstrated that MTX led to elevated malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and reduced testosterone, LH, and FSH levels, suggesting oxidative stress and Leydig cell dysfunction. Gene expression analysis indicated that MTX upregulated proapoptotic genes (casp3, p53, and bax) while downregulating the antiapoptotic Bcl2 gene. In contrast, Se treatment reversed these trends, highlighting its potential antiapoptotic properties.

CONCLUSION

Our findings underscore the potential of Se as a therapeutic agent to mitigate the reproductive toxicity associated with MTX-induced testicular injury. Se exerts protective effects by regulating oxidative stress, preserving hormone balance, and modulating apoptotic pathways. These results suggest that Se supplementation could be a promising strategy to alleviate chemotherapy-induced testicular damage and preserve male fertility.

Brain targeting based nanocarriers loaded with resveratrol in Alzheimer's disease: A review

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is one of the chief neurological difficulties in the aged population, identified through dementia, memory disturbance, and reduced cognitive abilities. β-amyloid (Aβ) plaques aggregations, generation of reactive oxygen species, and mitochondrial dysfunction are among the major signs of AD. Regarding the urgent need for the development of novel treatments for neurodegenerative diseases, researchers have recently perused the function of natural phytobioactive combinations, such as resveratrol (RES), in vivo and in vitro (animal models of AD). Investigations have shown the neuroprotective action of RES. This compound can be encapsulated by several methods (e.g. polymeric nanoparticles (NPs), solid lipid nanoparticles, Micelles, and liposomes). This antioxidant compound, however, barely crosses the blood-brain barrier (BBB), thereby limiting its bioavailability and stability at the target sites in the brain. Thanks to nanotechnology, the efficiency of AD therapy can be improved by encapsulating the drugs in a NP with a controlled size (1-100 nm). This article addressed the use of RES, as a Phytobioactive compound, to decrease the oxidative stress. Encapsulation of this compound in the form of nanocarriers to treat neurological diseases to improve BBB crossing is also discussed.

A metabolism targeting three-pronged attack significantly attenuates breast cancer stem cell related markers toward therapeutic application

Tumor metabolism has provided researchers with a promising window to cancer therapy. The metabolic pathways adopted by cancer cells are different from those of normal cells. Thus, metabolism can be considered a linchpin in targeted cancer therapy. Glycolysis, pentose phosphate pathway, and mitochondria represent three critical metabolic spots with important roles in cancer cell survival and proliferation. In the present study, we aimed to target these pathways using three different inhibitors: 2-deoxyglucose, 6-aminonicotinamide, and doxycycline, separately and in combination. Accordingly, cell viability, lactate production, cell cycle profile, apoptotic profile, and expression of surface and molecular markers of MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell lines were investigated under adherent and sphere conditions. Our results from our set conditions indicated various inhibitory effects of these compounds on the breast cancer cell lines. Based on this all-around attack, the combination of drugs demonstrated the most effective inhibitory action compared to separate usage. This study suggests the combined application of these drugs in future investigations and more experimental settings in order to introduce this therapeutic strategy as an efficient anti-cancer treatment.

Overview of biological effects of melatonin on testis: A review

Infertility is a major global health issue and male factors account for half of all infertility cases. One of the causes of male infertility is the loss of spermatogonial stem cells, which may occur because of chemotherapy, radiotherapy or genetic defects. In numerous animal species, the evidence suggests the pineal gland and melatonin secretion in their reproductive activities are involved. Recently, considerable attention has pointed to the usage of melatonin in the treatment of diseases. Melatonin is associated with the regulation of circadian and seasonal rhythmic functions, immune system functions, retinal physiology, spermatogenesis and inhibition of tumour growth in different species. Several studies demonstrated that melatonin acts as an anti-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory, anticancer and antioxidant agent. Melatonin can also protect testicles and spermatogonia against oxidative damage, chemotherapy drugs, environmental radiation, toxic substances, hyperthermia, ischemia/reperfusion, diabetes-induced testicular damage, metal-induced testicular toxicity, improve sperm quality and it affects the testosterone secretion pathway by affecting Leydig cells. Therefore, the objective of this study is to investigate the biological effects of melatonin as a natural antioxidant on testicles and their disorders.

A Real-World Industrial Application of Particle Swarm Optimization: Baghouse Designing

Due to the high ability and flexibility of meta-heuristic algorithms (MAs), they can widely be used in many applications to solve different problems. Recently, real-world engineering applications of these optimization algorithms have attracted researchers’ attention. This paper applies particle swarm optimization (PSO) as an effective population-based MAs to design the baghouse (BH). BH filters are among the most commonly used devices in air pollution control systems in mining and food manufacturers and power plants. Designing the BH depends on several parameters such as its capacity or airflow (Nm3/h), air-to-cloth ratio ([Formula: see text]), cam velocity, and installation limitations. Generally, industrial designers select the number and length of bags and their arrangement based on the experimental observations to meet the parameters mentioned above. The minimum cost or total weight of equipment is utilized for proposing a competitive price for suppliers. In this paper, a PSO algorithm is used to minimize the total cost by finding the best possible design (the number, length, and arrangement of bags). In addition, a real example of installed BH in a pelletizing plant is given and compared with PSO results to investigate the efficiency of the proposed algorithm. The results suggest that PSO can find a better design with minimum total cost than an installed BH filter, and therefore, PSO is applicable to industrial designers.

Effect of Cerium Oxide Nanoparticles on the Expression of Developmental and Apoptosis Genes of Testicular Tissue in 6-Day-Old NMRI Mice Fetuses

Cerium oxide (CeO₂) has potential applications in medicine and various consumer products. This study investigated the effect of CeO₂ on the expression of genes associated with apoptosis and testicular development in mouse embryos. The experimental groups of pregnant mice were injected intraperitoneally with CeO₂ at a concentration of 10 mg/kg on days 7 and 14 of pregnancy. Six days after birth, the testicles of neonatal male mice were collected for mRNA expression determination using real-time PCR, protein expression analysis by immunohistochemistry, and apoptotic cell population determination using the TUNEL assay. The results showed that the mRNA expression of the Bax, Caspase-3, and Gsk3-β genes, unlike the Bcl2 gene, decreased significantly in the experimental group compared to the control group. The expression ratio of Bax/Bcl2 in the experimental group was lower than in the control group. A similar trend was observed in the population of apoptotic cells. In the experimental group, the expression levels of, Gata4, Sox8, and Rad54 at both the mRNA and protein levels increased significantly compared to the control group. Based on the results of this study, CeO₂ at a concentration of 10 mg/kg, in addition to producing anti-apoptotic effects on the testicular cells of neonatal mice, can increase the expression of genes involved in testicular development and performance. The current experimental study proved the protective effects of 10 mg/kg CeO₂ in developmental and apoptosis genes of testicular tissue in 6-day-old NMRI mice fetuses; however, more experiments are required to evaluate the possible side effects and interactions.

Effects of zinc on expression of apoptosis-related genes in freezing thawing damage of adipose tissue derived mesenchymal stromal cells

The present study was performed to investigate the effects of zinc supplementation on freezing thawing damage in adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) of mice through studying cellular viability and gene expression profile of apoptosis. Slow freezing method was conducted and the samples were treated with zinc doses 0, 2.5, 5, 10, 25, 50 and 100 µM. Viability was increased in groups of 2.5, 10 and 25 µM zinc in comparison to the control group. Gene expression study showed that in the group of 2.5 µM zinc, Fas, Bax and Caspase3 had down regulation. Up regulation of Bcl2 was observed in the groups of 10 and 25 µM zinc. P53 did not have a protecting regulation in the groups of study. The present study showed that doses 2.5-25 µM of zinc had a rather safe toxicity, increased cellular viability, and ameliorated expression of apoptosis-related genes in both intrinsic and extrinsic pathways.

The therapeutic effect of cerium oxide nanoparticle on ischaemia/reperfusion injury in rat testis

Testicular torsion is a dangerous urogenital disorder which is caused by twisting of spermatic cord, and unless immediate treatments happen at a proper time, oxidative stress, occurred during ischaemia reperfusion, finally leads to irreversible disintegration of testicular tissue. One of the first preventive lines is to administrate antioxidant factors. In the present study, we investigate the therapeutic effect of cerium oxide nanoparticle on the injury. We divided 45 rats into nine groups, subjected eight groups to testicular torsion-detorsion, injected different doses of cerium oxide nanoparticle into the peritoneum of six groups and analysed all the groups regarding spermatogenetic indices including sperm count, sperm viability and Johnson mean. Our results showed that cerium oxide nanoparticle can alleviate oxidative stress in testis, and this alleviation promotes the reproductive indices as the concentration of cerium oxide nanoparticles increases. The catalase-mimetic and superoxide dismutase-mimetic activities of cerium oxide nanoparticle are the most probable theories to explain the antioxidant effect of the nanoparticle.

D-limonene in diabetic rats

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a multi-factorial condition associated with oxidative stress. Limonene, as a plant-derived antioxidant, can be used for treating DM. Objectives: An investigation on antioxidant effects in diabetic rats exposed to D-limonene. Materials and Methods: Sixty male Wistar rats were categorized into six groups as follows: control (healthy rats), diabetic control (untreated diabetic rats), sham glibenclamide, diabetic glibenclamide, sham limonene, and finally diabetic limonene. Alloxan (100 mg/dL) was infused intraperitoneally to induce type 1 diabetes in rats. Rats in certain groups were given limonene (100 mg/dL) and glibenclamide (10 mg/dL) orally for 8 weeks. Subsequently, animals were killed, and their kidneys were removed. Serum levels of biochemical factors (including serum creatinine, urea, and glucose) were determined, and factors such as nitric oxide (NO), malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), and myeloperoxidase (MPO) were measured in kidney tissue homogenate. The gene expression and enzymatic activity of glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in the kidney were measured by real-time polymerase chain reaction (real-time PCR) and spectrophotometry, respectively. Results: Limonene treatment significantly decreased serum glucose, creatinine, and urea. Additionally, MDA, MPO, and NO significantly decreased while GSH increased after treatment with limonene. Real-time RT-PCR showed significant elevation (P<0.05) in mRNA levels of GPx, CAT, and SOD in the limonene-treated compared with the diabetic control group. Conclusion: Our results demonstrated that limonene as an herbal antioxidant had better effects on antioxidant markers compared to glibenclamide in rat models of diabetes.

Pre-Implantation Effects of Progesterone Administration on Ovarian Angiogenesis after Ovarian Stimulation: A Histological, Hormonal, and Molecular Analysis

OBJECTIVE

Progesterone (P4) is known to directly affect ovarian tissue angiogenesis. The present study was designed to show how P4 affects ovarian angiogenesis in hormonal, histological, and molecular levels.

METHODS

Fifteen adult female NMRI mice were divided into three groups: Control Group; Case Group I (ovarian stimulation alone); and Case Group II (ovarian stimulation followed by P4 administration). Blood and ovarian tissue samples were assessed for hormonal, histological, and molecular alterations. Gene expression for ovarian vascular endothelium growth factor (VEGF) and hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF-1α) was analyzed using real-time PCR.

RESULTS

Ovarian hormone levels were increased in the case groups compared with the control group (p<0.05). Quantitative corpus luteum parameters were increased in the case groups compared with the control group (p<0.05). Quantitative ovarian vascular parameters were significantly different in the case groups compared with the control group. Gene expression analyses shows that the mice in Case Group I had higher levels of ovarian VEGF expression than the mice in the control group (p<0.05). No significant difference in gene expression was observed for HIF-1ɑ.

CONCLUSION

Treatment with P4 after ovarian stimulation enhanced ovarian angiogenesis by increasing hormone levels and causing significant structural changes.

Quercetin postconditioning attenuates gastrocnemius muscle ischemia/reperfusion injury in rats

Quercetin, an antioxidant derived from plants, can play a beneficial role in the protection of various tissues against ischemia-reperfusion injuries (IRI). The purpose of the present research was to investigate the protective effects of quercetin on gastrocnemius muscle ischemia-reperfusion. A total of 80 adult male Wistar rats (weights: 250-300 g) were divided into ten groups (n = 8 per group). We used silk 6.0 surgical thread to create a knit to occlude the femoral artery and vein for 3 hr. The treated groups, which comprised half of each experimental group, received intraperitoneal injections of 150 mg/kg quercetin after the ischemia. Blood flow was subsequently reestablished in the reperfusion phase. The rats were kept in reperfusion for 3, 7, 14, or 28 days after which they were killed with high doses of anesthetic drugs, and the gastrocnemius muscles were removed and fixed. Tissue processing, hematoxylin and eosin and toluidine blue staining, and immunohistochemistry were used to assess tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) levels. A comparison between treated and untreated ischemic sites showed that on the third day of reperfusion, the severity of edema and NF-κB level decreased significantly; on the 7th day of reperfusion, the severity of edema and the levels of TNF-α and NF-κB decreased significantly; and on the 14th day of reperfusion, all of the parameters showed significant decreases. On the 28th day of reperfusion, there were significantly decreased levels of TNF-α and NF-κB, and decreased mast cell infiltration when compared with the untreated groups. According to the results, administration of quercetin after ischemia could significantly prevent gastrocnemius muscle IRI.

The Effect of Cerium Oxide During Pregnancy on the Development of the Testicular Tissue of Newborn NMRI Mice

Cerium(IV) oxide is widely used as a catalyst in all aspects of human life and human beings are exposed to these materials. The purpose of this experimental study was to investigate the effect of CeO₂ during pregnancy on alterations in the testis tissue and blood biochemical parameters in newborn mice. Pregnant NMRI mice were divided randomly into five groups (n = 6 for each group) including one control group and 4 treatment groups. Injection of CeO₂ solution was administered intraperitoneally at the doses of 10, 25, 80, and 250 mg/kg.bw, respectively, on GD 7 and GD 14. At the end of treatment period, the testicular histological and biochemical parameters of 2- and 6-day-old newborns were analyzed, as well as the biochemical parameters in serum samples of 15-day-old newborns. The number of spermatogonia, Sertoli, and Leydig cells in the testis of the 2-day-old newborn and spermatogonia and Leydig cells in the testis of the 6-day-old newborns in the 250 mg/kg.bw CeO₂ treatment group was significantly reduced compared with the control group (P < 0.05). Testis MDA of the 2- and 6-day-old newborns in the treated group receiving 250 mg/kg.bw of CeO₂ was significantly higher than the control group (P < 0.001). There was no significant difference between serum MDA and TAC levels between the treated groups with different doses of CeO₂ compared with the control group. Therefore, CeO₂ given to dams during pregnancy may affect the testicular tissue and blood biochemical parameters in neonates and may be dose-dependent.

Comparison of Lecturing and Multimedia-Based Learning on the Knowledge and Remembrance of Breast Cancer Topics in Midwifery Students of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences in 2016

Background and Purpose: One of the most important principles of training is the appropriate teaching method. The method used plays a key role in the process of teaching and learning and affects the students’ learning while knowledge of these methods and choosing the best of them lead to improvement in education. The aim of this study was to compare the effect of two lecturebased and multimedia-based training methods on learning, knowledge and remembrance of breast cancer topics in students of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences in 2016. Methods: In a quasi-experimental study, 42 midwifery students were assigned to two groups for training (25 students in multimedia-based method and 18 in lecture-based method). The students’ knowledge was measured using 20 multiple-choice questions designed by the researcher in three stages: pre-test, post-test and test-retest (2 months after the intervention). Then, the data were analyzed using SPSS, 19, at a significance level of 95%. Findings: There was no significant difference between the students’ mean age and their mean score in the course of women’s diseases in the two groups. No difference was observed in the mean scores in the two groups (p>0.05) before the intervention, but after the intervention the level of students’ knowledge in both groups increased (p=0.000). In the post-test stage, there was a significant difference between the scores in the multimedia-based and lecture-based groups (p=0.000). Results: The results indicated the effectiveness of multimedia knowledge and breast training method so that this method showed a more lasting knowledge after two months of training. Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.19(4) 2020 p.710-716

Effect of selenium on freezing-thawing damage of mice spermatogonial stem cell: a model to preserve fertility in childhood cancers

Background

During treatment of childhood cancers, fertility of boys may be affected. Therefore, freezing spermatogonial stem cell (SSC) is recommended. However, freezing-thawing process may cause damage to SSCs. This study was conducted to evaluate protective effects of selenium on freezing-thawing damage of mice SSCs using investigation of cell viability and investigation of apoptosis related genes expression including Fas, Caspase3, Bcl2, Bax and P53.

Methods

SSCs were extracted from 80 6-day-old mice. The SSCs were divided into four groups: cryopreservation along with selenium (low and high dose), vitrification along with selenium (low and high dose), cryopreservation control, and vitrification control. Trypan blue staining and real-time polymerase chain reaction (real-time PCR) were used to investigate cell viability and gene expression, respectively.

Result

Comparison of cell viability in the experimental groups did not show a significant association. Expression of Fas and Caspase3 was significantly lower in cryopreservation group with low-dose selenium. Expression of Bcl2 was significantly lower in cryopreservation group with high-dose selenium. Expression of Bax and Caspase3 was significantly lower in vitrification group with low-dose selenium, and expression of P53 was significantly upper. Expression of Bax and Fas was significantly lower in vitrification group with high-dose selenium, and expression of P53 was significantly upper (P<0.001).

Conclusions

Selenium had dose dependent effect on apoptosis related genes profile. The only evident effect was the effect of low-dose selenium in cryopreservation on inhibition of apoptosis via extrinsic pathway.

Calendula officinalis stimulate proliferation of mouse embryonic fibroblasts via expression of growth factors TGFβ1 and bFGF

Background

TGF-β has an important role in the process of wound healing and scar formation. The aim of this study is to determine the effects of ethanolic and methanolic extracts of Calendula officinalis on the expression of TGFβ1 and bFGF in the mouse embryonic fibroblast cells (MEFs).

Methods

Calendula officinalis extract was purchased and different substances defined with gas chromatography and mass spectrometry. MEFs were prepared and after incubating for 15 min, cell viability analyzed. TGF β 1 and bFGF gene expression was evaluated by real-time PCR. TGFβ1 and bFGF protein expression analyzed by ELISA. The statistical analysis of data was done by using SPSS software. Differences were considered significant at (P < 0.05).

Results

The results of the MTT test showed that the concentrations of 5 μg/ml and10 μg/ml were more suitable for cell proliferation. There was an increase in TGF β 1 gene expression in the MEFs. Expression of TGF β 1 gene remains the same after 24 h. Gene expression of bFGF showed a similar pattern with TGF β 1 expression for both solvents. Analysis of TGFβ1 protein expression showed an increase in TGFβ1 gene expression in the MEFs. Protein expression of bFGF in the MEFs increased at different concentrations at 12 and 24 h after treatment (P < 0.05 and P < 0.01 respectively).

Conclusion

Calendula officinalis stimulates proliferation of MEFs. Calendula via increased expression of growth factors (TGFβ1 and bFGF) at the first 12 h and a decrease of these factors at 24 h after treatment may ameliorate function of the MEFs in the during wound healing.

Encapsulation of Satureja khuzistanica extract in alginate hydrogel accelerate wound healing in adult male rats

BACKGROUND

Finding the best dressing for a specific wound had continued from the past to present. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of encapsulated extract of Satureja khuzistanica in hydrogel alginate at wound healing.

METHODS

Thirty-two male Wistar rats with a puncture wound in the back of the neck skin were divided randomly into four groups including a control group, Satureja khuzistanica-treated group, hydrogel alginate-treated group, and Satureja khuzistanica encapsulated in hydrogel alginate-treated group. Rats were treated for 22 days. The skin samples were taken on 3rd, 7th, 14th, and 22nd days after treatment for light microscopy. Results were analyzed in accordance with Kruskal-Wallis and Friedman test (for histopathology analysis) by using SPSS v.22 software.

RESULTS

Macroscopically evaluations and measurement of wound size showed increased wound healing process in the treated groups. The complete improvement was created on the 14th day. The wound site was not observed on the 22nd day. But the wound site was observed on the 22nd day in the control group. Also, comparison of the percentage of wound healing between the treated and control groups on 3rd, 7th, 14th, and 22nd days showed a significant difference (p < 0.05). Comparison of the H&E stained sections in the studied groups showed that treated groups were effective on wound healing in comparison with the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

Encapsulated extract of Satureja khuzistanica in hydrogel alginate may accelerate wound improvement and increase the rate of wound healing without scar formation.

The Effect of Caffeic Acid on Spermatogonial Stem Cell-type A Cryopreservation

BACKGROUND

Cancer treatment methods can lead to male infertility .in this regard, cryopreservation of spermatogonial stem cells (SSC) and cell-to-person transplantation after the course of treatment to resolve the problem of infertility is a good one. The cryopreservation of SSC is an important process as it can help on the return of spermatogenesis. However, during this process, the stem cells often become damaged which degrades their value for experiments and treatments. Caffeic acid (CA) is an antioxidant that has been shown to increase the viability of cells under stress. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of CA has on spermatogonial stem cell (SSC) cryopreservation.

METHODS

Spermatogonial stem cells isolated from the testes of Balb/c mice pups were cultured in laminincoated dishes, purified using CD90.1 microbeads, then cryopreserved in vitrification media supplemented with 10 µM CA either through a slow or rapid freezing process. After thawing, cell viability was evaluated. Expression of Bax, Fas, Bcl-2 and P53 genes was determined by real-time PCR. Gel electrophoresis was used to confirm the results of the real-time PCR.

RESULTS

The viability of the SSCs that were rapidly frozen and treated with CA was observed to be significantly reduced compared to the control group (p < 0.003). The viability SSCs that received CA and underwent the slow freezing treatment was significantly reduced compared to controls (p < 0.002). The expression levels of BAX, BCL-2, and Fas in the rapid freeze-thaw group didn't significantly change. However, the levels of P53 expression were shown to increase. In the group of SSCs that underwent the slow freezing process, the BAX gene expression levels increased, while the levels of BCL-2 gene expression decreased. No significant changes in the level of Fas and P53 expression were detected. When comparing the groups that received CA treatment, SSCs that were rapidly frozen showed an up-regulation of Fas and P53 expression and a down-regulation of Bcl-2 and Bax expression.

CONCLUSION

Caffeic acid may protect intact SCCs during the cryopreservation process through stimulating the induction of apoptosis in injured SSCs. Supplementing the vitrification media with CA has a superior effect on the preservation of SSCs.

Protective effects of persian honey, Apis Mellifera Meda Skorikov on side effects of chemotherapy and ischemia/reperfusion induced testicular injury

Introduction The aim of the present study was to survey the protective effect of pretreatment with Persian honey on amelioration of side effects of chemotherapy and ischemia/reperfusion induced testicular injury. Materials and methods Forty adult's male wistar rats were divided into four groups of ischemia-reperfusion (IR), honey + ischemia-reperfusion (HIR), Busulfan (B) and Busulfan intraperitoneally+ honey (BH). The seminiferous tubules were rated for their modified spermatogenesis index (SI) by Johnsons score. Detection of single- and double-stranded DNA breaks at the early stages of apoptosis was performed using the in-situ cell death detection kit. Total serum concentration of Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) , Luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone was measured using ELISA. All data were expressed as mean ± SD and significance was set at p≤0.05. Results Honey improved SI in the HIR and BH groups and serum levels of FSH and LH in the BH and HIR groups (p<0.001). Also, serum levels of testosterone were significantly higher in BH and HIR groups. But, apoptotic cells in IR and B groups significantly increased (p<0.001), while in HIR and BH groups, the number of apoptotic cells decreased and the positive cells of TUNEL (TdT-mediated dUTP-X nick end labelling) staining were detected in spermatocytes and spermatid. Discussion Pretreatment with honey protect testis against chemotherapy and testicular IR injury, increase FSH and LH and testosterone and decrease the cellular damage and apoptosis. Honey can decrease the side effects of chemotherapy on reproductive system and prevent sterility.

Troxerutin protect sperm, seminiferous epithelium and pituitary-gonadal axis from torsion-detorsion injury: An experimental study

BACKGROUND

Troxerutin is a flavonoid antioxidant that protect different organ against damage caused by ischemia-reperfusion.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of troxerutin in reducing the damages caused by ischemia-reperfusion in rat's testis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

40 Male Wistar rats (2 month old) were divide to four groups (n=10). Group1 (sham), Group 2 (control, ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) without treatment), Group 3 (I/R+150 mg/kg of troxerutin), and group 4 (I/R+20 mg/kg of vitamin C). Treatment of group 3 and group 4 during torsion (twists 720 counter clock at 90 min) followed by 50 days detorsion. After 50 days, blood samples were collected and rats in all study groups were killed and their testes were removed, and fixed with Bouin's solution. Testis was stained with hematoxylin and eosin dye and the level of testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) were measured with ELISEA methods. TUNEL was employed to detect apoptosis. Epididymis caudal part was removed and total sperm count was determined. Johnson techniques were used for assessment of seminiferous tubules quality.

RESULTS

Troxerutin treated group has higher Johnson score's (p≤0.001), antiapoptotic properties (p≤0.001), sperm count (p=0.065), and higher LH (p≤0.001), FSH (p≤0.001) and testosterone (p=0.002) levels than control group. Vitamin C treated group showed increase level of testosterone but didn't show significant differences on the number of apoptotic cells, Johnson scores, LH, FSH and sperm count than control group.

CONCLUSION

Troxerutin has protective effects on testicular torsion induced injury and can ameliorate spermatogenesis in the torsion-detorsion models.

Effects of pomegranate peel extract on histopathology, testosterone levels and sperm of testicular torsion–detorsion induced in adult Wistar rats

Background

In the present study, effects of pomegranate peel extract have been evaluated on decreasing the damage induced by testis torsion.

Methods

In this study, 30 adult Wistar rats were randomly divided into three groups of control, experimental (1) and experimental (2). Control: no ischemia, received vehicle alone, exposed to sham operation. Experimental (1): Received the vehicle alone during ischemia followed by 60 days’ reperfusion. Experimental (2): After performing ischemia reperfusion, 500 mg/kg of pomegranate peel extract has been used for 60 days. Blood samples and sperm samples were collected. Testes were harvested and stained with haematoxylin and eosin to study the structure of seminiferous tubules.

Results

The statistical comparison between sperm count and their viability and testosterone hormone amount showed a significant difference between control and experimental (1) groups and control and experimental (2) groups. The results showed an improvement of morphological condition of seminiferous tubules.

Conclusions

Pomegranate peel extract has revealed desirable changes on the effective parameters in infertility.

Immunogenicity of a fusion protein containing PilQ and disulphide turn region of PilA from Pseudomonas aeruginosa in mice

Interference with bacterial adhesion is a new means to prevent or treat bacterial infections. In this experimental study we evaluated the immunogenic properties of a chimeric protein composed of PilQ and disulphide turn region of PilA from Pseudomonas aeruginosa in mice as an anti-adhesion based vaccine. First of all, a chimeric bivalent protein composed of PilQ and PilA was constructed and following subcutaneous immunization with merely the purified protein or in its admixed form with alum, the immunogenicity of the chimeric antigen was assessed in BALB/c mice. Then, the characteristics of the developed antibodies were studied by ELISA. Furthermore, the immunoreactivity of the purified recombinant protein was confirmed by immunoblotting. Alum as a common adjuvant boosted immunogenicity of the construct, resulting significantly greater anti-pili IgG titre. Mice antibody response consisted of IgG1, IgG2a, IgG2b and IgG3 subtypes with predominance of IgG1 subclass. The developed antibodies were capable to inhibit motility of PAO1 strain. In conclusion, our primary results revealed that the designed recombinant protein is a protective construct and may be used as a potential candidate for prophylactic purposes against P. aeruginosa infection.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

In this study we examined the potential of integrated PilQ/PilA (QA) antigen as a vaccine candidate against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Nowadays, anti-adhesion based vaccines are considered as new means to prevent or treat bacterial infections. Our study revealed that chimeric protein PilQ and disulphide turn region of PilA triggers production of specific antibodies. This humoral immune responses augmented when QA was administered in combination with an adjuvant. The results demonstrated efficacy of the designed recombinant chimeric antigen as an effective candidate in prevention of P. aeruginosa infection.

Selenium Ameliorate Peripheral Nerve Ischemic-Reperfusion Injury via Decreased TNF-α

Selenium is considered as a trace element that plays antioxidant role in the body. So, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of selenium on ameliorating of sciatic nerve ischemia-reperfusion injury. Eighty (80) adult male Wistar rats weighing 250-300 g were used. They were divided into 10 groups (n = 8). Then, femoral vessels were obstructed by using 4/0 silk and splitknot techniques. After 3-h ischemia for all the groups, reperfusion was applied for different periods: 3, 7, 14, and 28 days. In half of each experimental group, 0.2 mg/kg selenium was injected intraperitoneally, coinciding with ischemia. After reperfusion, according to the grouping, rats were killed by using high dose of anesthetic drug and then sciatic nerve was removed and fixed. Then, tissue samples were processed and subsequently stained with hematoxylin-eosin, apoptosis, and immunohistochemistry stains. On the third day of reperfusion, the amount of TNF-α as an inflammatory marker of ischemia-reperfusion acute phase increased. On the seventh day of reperfusion, the amount of NF-кB as an apoptotic index and infiltration of mast cells increased in the tissue as a result of development of inflammation. But, on the 14th day of reperfusion, the amount of NF-кB as an apoptotic index decreased to the lowest amount. On the 28th day of reperfusion, the amount of TNF-α as an inflammatory marker decreased to its lowest level. Prescription of selenium concurrent with development of ischemia can reduce the damage caused by sciatic nerve ischemia-reperfusion.

Honey improves spermatogenesis and hormone secretion in testicular ischaemia-reperfusion-induced injury in rats

This study was conducted to survey the protective effect of pre-treatment with Persian honey during post-ischaemia reperfusion on ischaemia-reperfusion (IR)-induced testis injury. Animals were divided into four groups of IR, honey + ischaemia- reperfusion (HIR), vitamin C + ischaemia- reperfusion (VIR) and carbohydrates + ischaemia- reperfusion (CIR). The testes were examined for spermatogenesis index. Detection of single- and double-stranded DNA breaks at the early stages of apoptosis was performed. Total serum concentration of FSH, LH and testosterone was measured using ELISA. All data were expressed as mean ± SD in each group, and significance was set at p ≤ .05. Spermatogenesis index was significant in the HIR group (p < .001). Serum levels of FSH and LH were significantly higher in the CIR and HIR groups. Serum levels of testosterone were significantly higher in VIR and HIR groups. Apoptotic cells in IR and CIR groups increased significantly statistically (p < .001), while in HIR and VIR groups, the number of apoptotic cells decreased and the positive cells of TUNEL staining were detected in spermatocytes and spermatid. The present study indicates that honey decreases the cellular damage and apoptosis during testicular I/R injury, with significant protective effects on reproductive hormone production.

Evaluation of selenium on kidney function following ischemic injury in rats; protective effects and antioxidant activity

Introduction: Renal dysfunction is caused by ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury, which is a common problem in kidney surgery or kidney transplantation. The human body consists of enormous complex antioxidant systems, which inquires adequate selenium (Se) absorption for normal physiologic function. It is known that Se has some antioxidant effects. Objectives: In the present research, effects of the Se on damages caused by I/R injury investigated. Materials and Methods: In this experimental research, four groups of rats (weighing 220±10 g) used, include control group, I/R group, healthy group treated with Se for two weeks, and I/R group with two-week Se treatment. On the test day, I/R was treated in both right and left renal arteries for 45 minutes and the reperfusion was done for 24 hours. Results: In I/R group, the amount of urea and serum creatinine (Cr) was an injury indicator of the kidney cells which showed a significant increase compared with the control group. When the treatment with Se significantly reduced these indicators, glutathione (GSH) enzyme levels reduced significantly in the second group and the enzyme levels increased due to Se treatment in the fourth group. Furthermore, malondialdehyde (MDA) enzyme levels increased in I/R group due to the Se treatment in the fourth group which was significantly reduced. In addition, the tissue damage was reduced in the fourth group compared with I/R group. Conclusion: Se has a protective effect against the I/R injury. This effect might be due to the antioxidant properties of Se.

Allele specific-PCR and melting curve analysis showed relatively high frequency of β-casein gene A1 allele in Iranian Holstein, Simmental and native cows

There are two allelic forms of A1 and A2 of β-casein gene in dairy cattle. Proteolytic digestion of bovine β-casein A1 type produces bioactive peptide of β-casomorphin-7 known as milk devil. β-casomorphin-7 causes many diseases, including type 1 diabetes, cardiovascular disease syndrome, sudden death and madness. The aim of the present study was to determine the different allelic forms of β-casein gene in Iranian Holstein, Simmental and native cattle in order to identify A1 and A2 variants. The blood samples were collected randomly and DNA was extracted using modified salting out method. An 854 bp fragment including part of exon 7 and part of intron 6 of β-casein gene was amplified by allele specific polymerase chain reaction (AS-PCR). Also, the accuracy of AS-PCR genotyping has been confirmed by melting temperature curve analysis using Real-time PCR machinery. The comparison of observed allele and genotype frequency among the studied breeds was performed using the Fisher exact and Chi-squared test, respectively by SAS program. Obtained results showed the A1 allele frequencies of 50, 51.57, 54.5, 49.4 and 46.6% in Holstein, Simmental, Sistani, Taleshi and Mazandarani cattle populations, respectively. The chi-square test was shown that no any populations were in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium for studied marker locus. Comparison and analysis of the test results for allelic frequency showed no any significant differences between breeds (P&gt;0.05). The frequency of observed genotypes only differs significantly between Holstein and Taleshi breeds but no any statistically significant differences were found for other breeds (P&gt;0.05). A relatively high frequency of β-casein A1 allele was observed in Iranian native cattle. Therefore, determine the genotypes and preference alleles A2 in these native and commercial cattle is recommended.

Evaluation of alginate hydrogel cytotoxicity on three-dimensional culture of type A spermatogonial stem cells

The culture of spermatogonial cells for future transplantation, based on the specific biology of these cells is important and necessary. Recently, the use of scaffolds especially alginate for culturing stem cells has been the focus of many researchers. The aim of this study was to evaluate the cytotoxicity of alginate hydrogels to cultures of type A spermatogonial stem cells. Spermatogonial stem cells of 6day-old immature mice were isolated by surgery; thereafter, the cells were purified by MACS using antibodies against thy-1 and C-kit and cultured on a layer of laminin. After purification, spermatogonial stem cells were encapsulated in alginate hydrogels. After one month of encapsulation and culture in DMEM culture medium containing 10ng/ml GDNF, cells were removed from hydrogel and were examined for viability, cell morphology and structure, cytotoxicity and expression of apoptosis genes Fas, P53, Bax, Bcl2, Caspase3 by staining with trypan blue, scanning electron microscopy, LDH test, and Real time PCR, respectively. The encapsulation did not change the morphology and viability of spermatogonial stem cells. Investigations showed that spermatogonial stem cells preserve by the high viability (74.08%) and cytotoxicity of alginate hydrogel was estimated to be 5%. Expression of Fas gene increased in main group compared with the control group, and expression of Bax and P53 was reduced in main group compared with the control group. Expression of Bcl2 and Caspase3 genes did not show any significant difference between the main group and the control group. Considering the lack of cytotoxicity and antioxidant properties of alginate hydrogel scaffold and high viability of cells, this three-dimensional scaffold is applicable for culturing and encapsulation of spermatogonial stem cells.

Supplementation freeze-thawed media with selenium protect adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells from freeze-thawed induced injury

Successful freezed-thaw of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADMSCs) could be a major step in regenerative medicine as well as in the cloning of animal breeds. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of selenium on the optimizing of freezed-thaw media in the ADMSCs. ADMSCs were extracted from NMRI mice and purified with positive selection Monoclonal CD105 Antibody (PE) and negative selection Monoclonal CD31 and CD45 Antibody using MACS method as well as differentiation to adipose and bone tissue. ADMSCs were divided into four groups. ADMSCs were freezed-thaw under standard condition with or without the addition of 5 ng/ml selenium to both the cryopreservation and thawing solutions. Frozen cells were thawed after four months and viability and cytotoxicity of the cells were analyzed by the Trypan blue test and MTT assay respectively. RNA was extracted and cDNA was synthesized and the expression of apoptotic genes (P53, Fas, Bax, Caspase3, and Bcl2) was examined using Real time-PCR Rotor gene 2009. This study compares slow and rapid methods of cryopreservation. After thawing, viability of the cells treated with selenium was higher than the control group in rapid and slow cryopreserved ADMSCs. Also, the percentage of living cells in the slow cooling method was considerably more than with the rapid cooling method. After analysis of the results using Real time-PCR, the Bcl2 gene was shown to be expressed in both the rapid and slow cooling methods. In the rapid cooling group in addition to the BCL-2 gene, p53 was also expressed. It appears that selenium prevented the apoptotic genes from expression due to its anti-apoptotic effects. The slow cooling method is better and more optimized for ADMSCs protecting them from oxidative damage to a greater extent compared to the rapid cooling method.

[Evaluation of miR-122 level in the plasma of chronically HCV infected patients]

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNA molecules, which have an important function in regulating RNA stability and gene expression. They also can circulate in a cell-free form in the blood thatmakes them potential disease markers. The liver contains various classes of miRNAs in which miR-122 accounts for about 70% of all miRNAs and it has been proved that its level increases in case of liver damage. Here, we investigated plasma levels of miR-122 as a useful disease parameter in patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC) infection. Thirty five hemophilia and thalassemia patients with CHC were studied. The total RNA was extracted from plasma samples, and miR-122 levels were measured by qPCR and then compared with the specific liver markers. The plasma levels of alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase(AST) were correlated with plasma miR-122 level in CHC patients, and the level of circulating miR-122 in healthy individual groups were rarely lower than those of patients with CHC. In our study, miR-122 levels correlated well with markers of liver inflammatory activity. Plasma miR-122 can be assumed to be another marker in liver similar to the currently used specific markers such as ALT and AST for evaluation of liver damage in hepatitis C virus (HCV) infected patients. Moreover, the correlation between miR-122 and ALT was shown to be higher than between miR-122 and AST.

The effect of progesterone treatment after ovarian induction on endometrial VEGF gene expression and its receptors in mice at pre-implantation time

OBJECTIVES

Progestrone is a prequisite for pre-implantation angiogenesis and induce decidual angiogenesis. It is unknown the effect of progestrone administration on the endometrium of hyperstimulated mice at pre-implantation time.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Adult female NMRI mice were divided in three groups [control group, ovarian stimulated group and progestrone treated mice after ovarian stimulation]. Uterine horn samples removed at pre-implantation time in each group. Motic image Plus 2 software was used to assess the quantitative vascular parameters of endometrium. Gene expression was determined for vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), FMS-like tyrosine kinase (FLT) and Kinase insert domain protein receptor (FLK) genes using the real time PCR method. Data analysis was done with LinReg PCR and Rest-RG software.

RESULTS

Comparison between progestrone treated mice after ovarian stimulation with control group showed that increase in rate of VEGF gene expression [0.775] and decrease in rate of FLK [6.072] and FLT [1.711] gene expression. Analysis of the data on quantitative vascular parameters were indicated remarkable increase in quantitative vascular parameters of progestrone treated mice compare to control group.

CONCLUSION

Biological effect of progestrone on the vascular changes after ovarian stimulation resulted in an increase in VEGF receptors experession, it seems that induced angiogenesis by progesterone could result in better condition for implantation.

Reduction of autophagy markers mediated protective effects of JNK inhibitor and bucladesine on memory deficit induced by Aβ in rats

Autophagy, the process of self-degradation of cellular components, has an important role in neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease. In this study, we investigated the effects of SP600125 as c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) inhibitor and bucladesine as a cyclic adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate (cAMP) analog on spatial memory and expression of autophagic factors in Aβ-injected rats. Male Wistar rats were used. Rats were randomly allocated into five groups as following: amyloid beta (Aβ)-only group, Aβ + SP600125 (30 μg/1 μ/side, n = 7) and/or bucladesine (100 μM/1 μl/side, n = 7), and the normal control (vehicle only) group. The treatments were administered bilaterally to the CA1 sub-region of the hippocampus stereotaxically. Spatial reference memory was performed using Morris Water Maze 21 days later. The expression of authophagy markers (beclin1, Atg7, Atg12, and LC3 II/LC3 I) in the hippocampus was evaluated using western blotting. Compared to the vehicle group, Aβ administration reduced spatial reference learning (P < 0.001) and memory (P < 0.01) and upregulated the expression of beclin1, Atg7, Atg12, and LC3 II/I (P < 0.0001). Compare to Aβ-only group, the administration of SP600125 and/or bucladesine improved spatial reference learning (P < 0.001) and memory (P < 0.01). Compared to the Aβ-only group, the treatment with SP600125 and/or bucladesine also reduced beclin1, Atg7, Atg12, and LC3 II/I (P < 0.0001) which was similar to amount of normal rats. In summary, it seems that the improvement of spatial memory by SP600125 and/or bucladesine in Aβ-injected rats is in relation with normalizing of autophagy to the physiologic level, possibly through neuroprotection and/or neuroplasticity.

Synergistic effects of nitric oxide and exercise on revascularisation in the infarcted ventricle in a murine model of myocardial infarction

It has been shown that density of microvessels decreases in the left ventricular after myocardial infarction (MI). The change of angiogenic and angiostatic factors as the main factors in revascularisation after exercise training in area at risk is not determined yet in MI. Therefore, the aim of the present study was the effect of exercise training and L-arginine supplementation on area at risk angiogenesis in myocardial infarction rat. Four weeks after surgery (Left Anterior Descending Coronary artery Ligation), myocardial infarction rats were divided into 4 groups: Sedentary rats (Sed-MI); L-arginine supplementation (La-MI); Exercise training (Ex-MI) and Exercise + L-arginine (Ex+La). Exercise training (ET) lasted for 10 weeks at 17 m/min for 10-50 min day(-1). Rats in the L-arginine-treated groups drank water containing 4 % L-arginine. After ET and L-arginine supplementation, ventricular function was evaluated and angiogenic and angiostatic indices were measured at ~1 mm from the edge of scar tissue (area at risk). Statistical analysis revealed that gene expression of VEGF as an angiogenic factor, angiostatin as an angiostatic factor and caspase-3 at area at risk decrease significantly in response to exercise training compared to the sedentary group. The capillary and arteriolar density in the Ex groups were significantly higher than those of the Sed groups. Compared to the Ex-MI group, the Ex+La group showed a markedly increase in capillary to fiber ratio. No significant differences were found in infarct size among the four groups, but cardiac function increased in response to exercise. Exercise training increases revascularization at area at risk by reduction of angiostatin. L-arginine supplementation causes additional effects on exercise-induced angiogenesis by preventing more reduction of VEGF gene expression in response to exercise. These improvements, in turn, increase left ventricular systolic function and decrease mortality in myocardial infarction rats.

Prevalence of HCV Infections and Co-Infection With HBV and HIV and Associated Risk Factors Among Addicts in Drug Treatment Centers, Lorestan Province, Iran

Background:

Hepatitis C is an infectious disease caused by blood-borne pathogen, hepatitis C virus (HCV).

Objectives:

The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of HCV infection and associated risk factors among addicts in drug treatment centers in Lorestan Province, Iran.

Patients and Methods:

A cross-sectional sero-behavioral survey was given to drug addicts in the drug treatment centers of Khorramabad, Lorestan Province, Iran during June 2012 - March 2013. Drug addicts were interviewed using a standard questionnaire including demographic, imprisonment history, and HCV-related risk behavior items. Thereafter, the sera drawn from the participants were tested for anti-HCV antibody (Ab), anti-human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) Ab, and hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg).

Results:

The mean age of the cohorts was 31.7. Up to 60.2% of drug users had educational levels less than high school, 67.5% were self-employed, and 32.5% were office workers. The mean duration of drug injection was 6.8 years. Statistical analyses indicated that the prevalence of HCV among drug addicts was positively associated with age, past incarceration, drug injection history, the duration of drug use, and tattooing. In addition, 16.23% of volunteers were HCV-positive. Of those infected with HCV, 1.10% was co-infected with HBV, 2.95% were positive for HIV, and 0.36% of HCV-positive cases were infected with all three viruses.

Conclusions:

The high prevalence of HCV infection among this group implies a high rate of transmission and exposure to the risk of serious diseases. It is important that the high prevalence of HCV infection be taken into consideration to control further transmission of this infection.

Expression of liver alpha-amylase in obese mouse hepatocytes

AIM

The aim of this study is to demonstrate the relation between the expression of liver alpha-amylase and obesity.

BACKGROUND

Alpha-amylase catalyses the hydrolysis of 1, 4-alpha-glucosidic linkages in polysaccharides and has three main subtypes, including: salivary, pancreatic, and hepatic. Hepatic alpha-amylase is involved in glycogen metabolism, and has a role in obesity and its management. In this study, we aimed to analyze the expression of liver alpha-amylase in overweight and obese mouse.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In this study, NMRI male mice were randomly divided into two groups. The sample group (obese) took a high-fat and carbohydrate diet, while the control group (normal) took a laboratory pellet chow for eight weeks. During this period, their weight was measured. After eight weeks, liver hepatocytes were isolated using an enzymatic digestion method. Immunocytochemistry (ICC) and flow cytometry analysis were performed to measure alpha amylase protein expression in mouse liver hepatocyte cells.

RESULTS

A significant difference in the body weight was observed between the two groups (p<0.05). The qualitative protein expression of liver alpha-amylase was found to be higher in the obese group in both tests (immunocytochemistry and flow cytometry). Animals from the test group presented higher alpha-amylase expression, which suggests that this hepatic protein may constitute a potential indicator of susceptibility for fat tissue accumulation and obesity. The present data demonstrates an increased expression of liver amylase in obese mice.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that liver amylase secretion might be useful for predicting susceptibility to obesity induced by consumption of a high-fat and carbohydrate diet.