In vivo anti-ulcerogenic effect of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) on ethanol-induced acute gastric mucosal lesions

CONTEXT

Okra, Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) (Malvaceae), is a medicinal plant widely used in Turkish traditional medicine for the treatment of various diseases such as ulcers and gastritis.

OBJECTIVE

In the present study, we evaluated the gastroprotective effect of okra against ethanol-induced acute gastric mucosal injury in animal models.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Wistar rats were treated with 500, 250 or 100 mg/kg okra; 20 mg/kg famotidine (Fam); and 75 mg/kg quercetin (Que). Following a 60 min period, all the rats were given 1 mL of ethanol (80%). One hour after the administration of ethanol, all groups were sacrificed.

RESULTS

At 5000 mg/kg, the extract produced (okra) no signs of toxicity in animals. Okra 500, 250, 100, Fam 20 and Que 75 inhibited ulcer formation by 81.0, 67.5, 67.0, 76.3 and 72.4%, respectively. Okra 500 significantly decreased edema, hemorrhage and inflammation scores compared with the ethanol group (p < 0.05). The oxidant levels decreased significantly in the all study groups compared within ethanol group (p < 0.001). Serum β-carotene and retinol levels significantly increased 40.2 and 45.4% in the okra 500 group. In okra 500, 250 and Fam 20 groups, apoptosis significantly decreased (p < 0.001), while okra 500, 250 and Fam 20 groups showed a higher percentage of cell proliferation compared with the ethanol group (p < 0.001).

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

Our in vivo data indicate that okra has a gastroprotective effect against ethanol and could reduce the gastric ulcer as seen from biochemical and histopathological results. We suggest that okra could be a possible therapeutic antiulcer agent.

Kinetics of pyrite, pyrrhotite, and chalcopyrite dissolution byAcidithiobacillus ferrooxidans

The main objective of this study was to investigate the dissolution kinetics of pyrite, pyrrhotite, and chalcopyrite. Crushed minerals were reacted with Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans (25 °C). The kinetics of dissolution was investigated by monitoring pH and Fe2+and Fe3+ion concentrations in the leaching solutions. Pyrite, pyrrhotite, and chalcopyrite dissolution by A. ferrooxidans was found to be a chemically controlled process. With bacteria, the dissolution rates of the minerals increased in the order of pyrrhotite, pyrite, and chalcopyrite. The number of cells attached to mineral surfaces increased in the same order. Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans was found to enhance the dissolution rates of the minerals. The acid-insoluble trait of pyrite and acid-soluble trait of the other 2 minerals affected the pH changes in the leaching solutions.

Measuring calcium, potassium, and nitrate in plant nutrient solutions using ion-selective electrodes in hydroponic greenhouse of some vegetables

Generally, the life cycle of plants depends on the uptake of essential nutrients in a balanced manner and on toxic elements being under a certain concentration. Lack of control of nutrient levels in nutrient solution can result in reduced plant growth and undesired conditions such as blossom-end rot. In this study, sensitivity and selectivity tests for various polyvinylchloride (PVC)-based ion-selective membranes were conducted to identify those suitable for measuring typical concentration ranges of macronutrients, that is, NO(3-), K(+), and Ca(2+), in hydroponic solutions. The sensitivity and selectivity of PVC-membrane-based ion-selective sensors prepared with tetradodecylammoniumnitrate for NO(3-), valinomycin for K(+), and Ca ionophore IV for Ca(2+) were found to be satisfactory for measuring NO(3-), K(+), and Ca(2+) ions in nutrient solutions over typical ranges of hydroponic concentrations. Potassium, calcium, and nitrate levels that were utilized by cucumber and tomato seedlings in the greenhouse were different. The findings show that tomato plants consumed less amounts of nitrate than cucumber plants over the first 2 months of their growth. We also found that the potassium intake was higher than other nutritional elements tested for all plants.

Effects of sphingosylphosphorylcholine against oxidative stress and acute lung ınjury ınduced by pulmonary contusion in rats

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

The goal of this study was to evaluate effects of exogenous sphingosylphosphorylcholine (SPC) administration on acute lung injury induced by pulmonary contusion in rats.

METHODS

Eight animals were included in each of the following five groups: control, contusion, contusion phosphate-buffered solution (PBS), contusion SPC 2, contusion SPC 10. SPC was administered 3 days at a daily two different doses of 2 μm/ml and 10 μm/ml intraperitoneally. The severity of lung injury was determined by the neutrophil activation and histological and immunohistochemical changes in the lung. Malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and glutathione (GSH) were determined to evaluate the oxidative status in the lung tissue.

RESULTS

Treatment with 2 μM SPC inhibited the increase in lung MDA and NO levels significantly and also attenuated the depletion of SOD, GPx, and GSH in the lung injury induced by pulmonary contusion. These data were supported by histopathological findings. The inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) positive cells and apoptotic cells in the lung tissue were observed to be reduced with the 2 μM SPC treatment. But, the 10 μM SPC treatment did not provide similar effects.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, these findings suggested that 2 μM SPC can attenuate lung damage in pulmonary contusion by prevention of oxidative stress, inflammatory process and apoptosis. All these findings suggest that low dose SPC may be a promising new therapeutic agent for acute lung injury.

Investigation of ischemia modified albumin, oxidant and antioxidant markers in acute myocardial infarction

INTRODUCTION

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is still one of the most common causes of death worldwide. In recent years, for diagnosis of myocardial ischemia, a new parameter, called ischemia modified albumin (IMA), which is thought to be more advantageous than common methods, has been researched.

AIM

In this study, systematic analysis of parameters considered to be related to myocardial ischemia has been performed, comparing between control and myocardial ischemia groups.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We selected 40 patients with AMI and 25 healthy controls for this study. Ischemia modified albumin levels, glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) antioxidant enzyme activities and non-enzymatic antioxidants such as retinol, α-tocopherol, β-carotene and ascorbic acid levels were investigated in both groups. Glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, which are indicators of oxidative stress, were compared between patient and control groups.

RESULTS

Ischemia modified albumin levels were found significantly higher in the AMI diagnosed group when compared with controls. The MDA level was elevated in the patient group, whereas the GSH level was decreased. SOD, GPx and CAT enzyme levels were decreased in the patient group, where it could be presumed that oxidative stress causes the cardiovascular diseases.

CONCLUSIONS

Due to the increased oxidative stress, non-enzymatic and enzymatic antioxidant capacity was affected. Systematic investigation of parameters related to myocardial infarction has been performed, and it is believed that such parameters can contribute to protection and early diagnosis of AMI and understanding the mechanism of development of the disease.

Oxidant and antioxidant status in children with subacute sclerosing panencephalitis

We analyzed serum alpha-tocopherol, beta-carotene, retinol, and ascorbic acid levels and malondialdehyde and reduced glutathione concentrations on erythrocyte and cerebrospinal fluid in 30 patients with subacute sclerosing panencephalitis to evaluate oxidant and antioxidant status. Serum alpha-tocopherol, beta-carotene, retinol, ascorbic acid levels, and erythrocyte and cerebrospinal fluid reduced glutathione concentrations were decreased; however, erythrocyte and cerebrospinal fluid malondialdehyde levels were increased in the patients. Cerebrospinal fluid malondialdehyde levels were different between clinical stages of the disease (P < .05). Higher cerebrospinal fluid malondialdehyde level was associated with the more severe clinical stage. A positive correlation was found between cerebrospinal fluid malondialdehyde level and clinical stages (r = 0.42; P < .05) and between erythrocyte malondialdehyde level and clinical stages (r = 0.40; P < .05). Our findings showed presence of oxidative damage in subacute sclerosing panencephalitis and that antioxidants were increased as defense mechanisms of the organism against oxidative damage.

Prevention of cyclophosphamide-induced hemorrhagic cystitis by resveratrol: a comparative experimental study with mesna

PURPOSE

Hemorrhagic cystitis (HC) is the most common urotoxic side effect of cyclophosphamide (CP). The aim of this study was to compare the classical efficacy of mesna (2-mercaptoethane sulfonate sodium) with three different doses of resveratrol (RES) on cyclophosphamide-induced HC in rats.

METHODS

Forty-six male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into six groups. Group 1 served as a negative control (sham). Five groups received a single dose of cyclophosphamide (150 mg/kg) intraperitoneally at the same time. Groups 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 received only CP, CP + 20 mg/kg RES, CP + 40 mg/kg RES, CP + 80 mg/kg RES, and CP + classical protocol of three doses of mesna (30 mg/kg three times), respectively. Antioxidants, cytokines, and malondialdehyde levels were measured in all groups. In addition, histopathological alterations in tissues were examined.

RESULTS

CP administration induced severe HC with marked edema, hemorrhage, and inflammation in group 2. RES 20 mg/kg showed meaningful protection against bladder damage compared to the control group. It was seen that RES 40 mg/kg gave weaker protection but RES 80 mg/kg was not found to be effective.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, marked bladder protection was found in 20 and 40 mg/kg RES applications compared to the control group, but this protection was weaker than with mesna.

Desferrioxamine effectively attenuates testicular tissue at the end of 3 h of ischemia but not in an equal period of reperfusion

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of desferrioxamine (DFX) on ipsilateral and contralateral testis damage caused by experimental testis torsion and detorsion.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty rats were divided into five groups (n = 8): control, torsion (T), torsion + desferrioxamine (T + DFX), torsion/detorsion (T/D), and torsion/detorsion + desferrioxamine (T/D + DFX). The right testes of the rats were subjected to torsion and detorsion for 3 h each. Thirty minutes before the application of torsion and detorsion, DFX (100 mg/kg) was administered intramuscularly. Blood samples and testicular tissues were examined using specific biochemical and histopathological methods.

RESULTS

Ipsilateral and contralateral testis tissue glutathione levels in the T group decreased compared with the control and T + DFX groups. Plasma glutathione peroxidase activity in the T, T/D, and T/D + DFX groups was lower than in the control group. Plasma catalase activity in the T and T/D groups decreased compared with the control group. Ipsilateral mean seminiferous tubule diameter of the T group was lower than that of the T + DFX group. The ipsilateral mean testis biopsy scores in the T and T/D groups were lower than in the control group.

CONCLUSION

The administration of DFX prior to torsion may be useful only for preventing ischemic damage in ipsilateral and contralateral testes.

Effects of methylene blue in acute lung injury induced by blunt chest trauma

BACKGROUND

We studied whether methylene blue (MB) treatment blunts chest trauma-induced lung injury in rats.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Forty male Sprague-Dawley rats, 200-300g, were used. The rats were divided into five groups (n=8): control, early contusion (EC), early contusion + methylene blue (2 mg/kg, EC+MB), late contusion (LC), and late contusion + methylene blue (2 mg/kg, LC+MB).

RESULTS

Histopathological analysis showed increased hemorrhage, alveolar wall thickness, edema, and inflammatory cell infiltrates in the EC and LC rats, which decreased upon MB treatment. Immunohistochemical studies revealed that MB reduced activation of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and the number of active terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL)-positive cells. A significant increase was observed in the malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitric oxide (NO) levels in the EC group compared to the control group (p<0.05). In addition, a significant decrease was reported in the glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) levels (p<0.01), but no significant difference was observed in the catalase (CAT) levels among the groups. The MDA level was significantly higher in the LC group compared to the control group, whereas the GSH level was significantly lower compared to the control group. The NO level in the EC+MB group was significantly lower when compared to the NO level in the EC group (p<0.05).

CONCLUSION

The present study provides evidence that MB might serve as a therapeutic treatment for blunt chest trauma.

Nimodipine can diminish oxidative stress in patients with severe head trauma

AIM

Antioxidative effect of nimodipine was investigated in patient with severe head trauma.

METHODS

The patients in group A were treated according to the standard procedures without nimodipine. Other patients in group B were treated with standard procedures plus intravenous nimodipine for a week. Three times per day, blood samples were taken from internal jugular venous saturation probe and central venous catheter for a week. The levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), nitrite, and nitrate, ascorbic acid, retinol and β-carotene in the serum were measured.

RESULTS

MDA levels in group B were significantly lower than those in the group A (P<0.05). As for GSH levels, it was observed that there was a significant increase in GSH levels in group B when compared to those in group A (P<0.01). Comparison of nitrate and nitrite levels in the serum of patient groups showed that these parameters were significantly higher in group B than those in group A (P<0.01). It was seen that there were a significant increase in ascorbic acid (P<0.01) and β-carotene (P<0.05) levels in group B when compared to those in group A. Values of retinol levels were slightly higher in group B than that of group A, and there was no significant difference between the groups.

CONCLUSION

Severe head trauma may increase oxidative stress. Administration of nimodipine may prevent the oxidative stress and may augment endogenous antioxidative defense systems in patients with severe head trauma.

Serum and liver tissue bio-element levels, and antioxidant enzyme activities in carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatotoxicity: protective effects of royal jelly

The liver is a vital organ, and its function is generally impaired by chemicals. Some natural compounds have a protective role against liver diseases such as royal jelly (RJ). To our knowledge, there are no data available on the effect of RJ therapy on the levels of bio-element metabolisms and antioxidant enzyme activities in the carbon tetrachloride (CCl(4))-induced liver damage. Therefore, in the present study, we have investigated the role of RJ therapy in the trace and major elements and antioxidant enzymes in CCl(4)-induced hepatotoxicity in rats. Antioxidant enzyme activities decreased in the CCl(4)-treated group more than they did in the sham and RJ-administered groups. Many bio-element levels were also reduced in only the CCl(4)-treated group. This showed that the depletion of trace elements was related to erythrocyte antioxidant enzyme activities. RJ administration clearly increased the trace and major element levels and antioxidant enzyme activities in RJ groups. RJ may be used as functional foods because of their naturally high antioxidant potential and rich element content.

Oxidant/antioxidant system markers and trace element levels in children with nutritional rickets

OBJECTIVE

To determine the oxidative stress and trace element levels in vivo in patients with nutritional rachitism associated with vitamin D deficiency.

MATERIALS AND METHOD

A total of 30 patients, 18 males and 12 females, were included in the study. Age, sex, medical history, vital, and physical examination findings of each patient documented at presentation were recorded. Serum calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase, parathormone, and 25-OH vitamin D levels, as well as oxidant and antioxidant system parameters and trace element levels were studied. After being diagnosed with rachitism, the patients were administered a single dose of 300,000 IU vitamin D by intramuscular injection. The same analyses were repeated post-treatment. Thirty children with normal anthropometric measurements were included as the control group. The analyses described above were performed only once for the control group.

RESULTS

Serum calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase, parathormone, and 25-OH vitamin D levels were different between the controls and children in the patient group (p<0.001). Analysis of trace element levels demonstrated markedly lower pretreatment zinc levels for the patient group compared to the controls, with a statistically significant difference (p=0.001). Comparison of pretreatment oxidant and antioxidant system markers between the patient and control groups demonstrated higher values for vitamin C, β-carotene, reduced glutathione, and superoxide dismutase in the control group, whereas MDA was higher in the patient group.

CONCLUSION

The present study demonstrated increased oxidative stress, reduced antioxidant defence system in patients with nutritional rachitism, with reduced oxidative stress and a pronounced improvement in the antioxidant system with vitamin D treatment.

Evaluation of trace elements, calcium, and magnesium levels in the plasma and erythrocytes of patients with essential hyperhidrosis

BACKGROUND

Essential hyperhidrosis is a disease that expresses itself with excessive sweating in palmar, plantar, axillary, and craniofacial regions. The etiopathogenesis of the disease, which has particular importance because of leading to psychosocial morbidity, could have not been completely elucidated. In previous studies, it has been shown that oxidative stress might play a role in the pathogenesis.

AIMS

Assessing the levels of trace elements such as Se, Zn, Cu, Fe, and Mg that have an important role in oxidative stress, as well as Ca and Mg that have an important role in membrane physiology, in patients with essential hyperhidrosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Blood samples taken from the patient group with essential hyperhidrosis (42) and the control group (37) were separated into plasma and erythrocytes, and the levels of the bioelements were measured by use of ICP-OES device.

RESULTS

Erythrocyte levels of Se, Fe, Cu, Zn, Ca, and Mg were detected significantly higher in patients with essential hyperhidrosis. Furthermore, plasma levels of Cu, Ca, and Mg were significantly lower in patients with essential hyperhidrosis. Plasma levels of Se, Fe, and Zn showed no statistical difference between two groups.

DISCUSSION

It was thought that the high levels of Cu and Fe in erythrocytes may play a role in increased intracellular oxidative stress, whereas the increase in Se and Zn levels may be secondary to increased oxidative stress. Low extracellular concentrations of Ca and Mg raise the thought that they play a role either enhancing the membrane excitability of eccrine sweat glands or influencing the autonomic nerve system.

CONCLUSION

The levels of trace elements, which were determined to be different from the control group, may play a role in the pathogenesis of essential hyperhidrosis either in direct relation with or without oxidative mechanisms.

The roles of melatonin and vitamin E plus selenium in prevention of oxidative stress induced by naloxone-precipitated withdrawal in heroin-addicted rats

The therapeutic effects of melatonin or vitamin E plus Se (vE + Se) on the restrain of the heroin withdrawal-induced oxidative stress were studied. For this, rats were divided into ten groups. The rats were injected by fixed or variable doses of heroin for 16 consecutive days, and naloxone was given 1 h after the last heroin injection. One hour after naloxone administration, some groups were treated with melatonin or vE + Se. After 1 h this, blood samples were taken, and the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and reduced glutathione (GSH) in whole blood, ascorbic acid, α-tocopherol, retinol, β-carotene, nitrite, nitrate, and ceruloplasmin levels in the serum were measured. Our findings showed that, naloxone administration precipitated the heroin withdrawal. This also increased the level of MDA and decreased the levels of GSH in blood. Melatonin or vE + Se administration prevented the rise in MDA levels and increased the GSH levels. On the other hand, there were some significant differences between α-tocopherol, retinol, β-carotene, nitrite, nitrate, and ceruloplasmin levels of experimental groups. Results of present study showed that heroin withdrawal increased the lipid peroxidation and depressed endogenous antioxidative systems. Additionally, melatonin or vE + Se administrations prevented lipid peroxidation and augmented endogenous antioxidant defense systems.

Antioxidant enzyme and element status in heroin addiction or heroin withdrawal in rats: effect of melatonin and vitamin E plus Se

Heroin use, withdrawal syndrome, and heroin-related deaths are still the most serious public health problems. Antioxidants and bio-elements are essential for metabolism in living organisms. To our knowledge, there are no data about the effect of antioxidant therapy on the levels of bio-elements and antioxidant enzymes in the naloxone (NX)-induced heroin withdrawal syndrome. Therefore, in the present study for the first time, we have investigated the role of antioxidant therapy, melatonin, and vitamin E plus Se, on the trace and major elements and antioxidant enzymes in the heroin addiction or heroin withdrawal in rats. Glutathione peroxidase levels were increased and catalase levels were decreased in the all study groups when compared to the sham group. The level of superoxide dismutase (SOD) in the fixed dose of heroin (FDH) given group was lower; however, in the variable doses of heroin (VDH) given group SOD level was higher. Furthermore, in withdrawal syndrome, Fe, Mg, Mn, and Ti levels were diminished and Al, Ca, and Cu levels were increased in the FDH+NX group. Moreover, Mg, Mn, and Se levels were also diminished and Al level was increased in the VDH+NX group. In conclusion, our results obviously indicated that heroin effected both bio-element status and antioxidant enzyme activities and, exogenous melatonin or vE+Se therapy might relieve on the element and antioxidant enzyme the destructive activity caused by heroin.

Bio-element status in children with acute rheumatic fever: before treatment and after clinical improvement

Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) is an autoimmune multisystem disease. Bio-elements are required in different quantities by an organism to maintain its physiologic function. Monitoring the status of bio-elements is critical in human health. This study aimed to determine possible changes in levels of bio-elements in children with ARF before and after treatment. Levels of trace and major elements in children with ARF were investigated. The study included 33 children with ARF (17 boys and 16 girls) and 20 healthy control children (11 boys and 9 girls). The ages ranged from 5 to 16 years (mean 11.4 ± 3.82 years) in the study group and from 6 to 15 years (mean, 10.7 ± 3.22 years) in the control group. Trace and major element concentrations (total of 14 elements) in the serum were measured by inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy. Before treatment, the levels of the major elements potassium (K) and magnesium (Mg) in children with ARF were higher than in the control group, whereas the calcium (Ca) level was lower. Before treatment, the levels of trace elements iron (Fe), selenium (Se), zinc (Zn), aluminum (Al), and barium (Ba) were lower, whereas the copper (Cu), beryllium (Be), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), gallium (Ga), and strontium (Sr) levels were higher in the serum of the patients with ARF than in the control patients. The major findings show that the homeostasis of some trace and major elements were altered in the children with ARF and that these alterations may be a contributing factor in the pathogenesis of this disease.

No apparent correlation between Behçet's disease and oxidative stress disturbance

Behçet's disease (BD) is a chronic, progressive and inflammatory multisystemic disease, that significantly affects the cardiovascular system. Oxidative stress (OS) is a disturbance in oxidant/antioxidant balance in favor of oxidants. The OS that increases acutely and chronically due to the inflammatory process plays an important role in the pathogenesis of the cardiovascular system effects of the disease by causing endothelial dysfunction in vascular structures. The aim of our study was to investigate the relationship between OS and myocardial perfusion, which is based on microvascular dysfunction, in BD.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

Twenty-seven patients with BD (16 M, 11 F, mean age: 38.7 +/- 9.4 years) and 22 healthy volunteers (12 M, 10 F, mean age: 35.8 +/- 6.5 years) participated in our study. Technetium-99m methoxyisobutylisonitrile single photon emission computed tomography (Tc-99m MIBI SPECT) stress-rest test was performed with two-day protocol. Myocardial perfusion scores (summed stress score, summed rest score, summed difference score, fix defect score) and perfusion defect prevalence (stress, rest, ischemic and fixed) were determined as the percentage of left ventricle. Coronary angiography was performed in patients with abnormal myocardial perfusion scintigraphy. For OS analysis, the blood samples were taken immediately before the first imaging procedure and were studied for malondialdehyde, glutathione, nitrite, nitrate, vitamin C, retinol, and carotene.

RESULTS

In the BD group, a total of 9 patients had abnormal findings in their stress and rest electrocardiography. Perfusion defect in myocardial perfusion scintigraphy was observed in 14 patients (51.8%). Twelve patients accepted coronary angiography, and their results were normal. In the comparison of myocardial perfusion scores, perfusion defect prevalence and OS parameters, there was a significant difference between the BD and control groups. In the BD group, no correlation was observed between myocardial perfusion scores, perfusion defect prevalence and OS parameters.

CONCLUSION

Defects in myocardial perfusion and increase in OS were observed in BD; however, there was no correlation between the two findings in the inactive period. In other words, the prevalence and intensity of myocardial perfusion defects can vary at different OS levels.

Protective potential of Royal Jelly against carbon tetrachloride induced-toxicity and changes in the serum sialic acid levels

Royal Jelly (RJ) is used in the Turkish folk medicine for the treatment of number of disorders. The present study describes the hepatoprotective and antioxidant activities of the RJ against carbon tetrachloride (CCl(4))-induced acute liver damage. Sprague-Dawley rats were used for the experiment. CCl(4) (0.8 ml/kg; s.c.) and RJ (50, 100, 200mg/kg; orally) were given every other day, for 20 days. Malondialdehyde, reduced glutathione in whole blood and tissues; ceruloplasmin, sialic acid, ascorbic acid, retinol, β-carotene and liver enzymes levels in serum were measured. Additionally, histopathological alterations in the liver were examined. RJ exerted the significant protective effect on liver damage as well as on oxidative stress induced by CCl(4), resulting in reduced lipid peroxidation and improved endogenous antioxidant defence systems. It also reduced the elevated levels of liver enzymes. Histopathological study further confirmed the hepatoprotective effect of RJ, when compared with the CCl(4) treated control groups. In conclusion, present study reveals biological evidence that supports the use of RJ in the treatment of chemical-induced hepatotoxicity.

Protective effect of Matricaria chamomilla on ethanol-induced acute gastric mucosal injury in rats

The antiulcerogenic and antioxidant properties of Matricaria chamomilla L. (Compositae) hydroalcoholic extract (MCE) on ethanol-induced gastric mucosal injury were investigated in rats. After the induction of gastric mucosal injury, all groups were sacrificed; the gastric ulcer index was calculated, and malondialdehyde (MDA) and reduced glutathione (GSH) in whole blood and gastric tissue, and serum ascorbic acid, retinol, and beta-carotene levels were measured in all groups. Pretreatment with MCE at some doses significantly reduced gastric lesions. Again, some doses of MCE significantly reduced the MDA, and significantly increased GSH levels in gastric tissue or whole blood. Serum beta-carotene and retinol levels were significantly higher in the 200 mg/kg MCE-administered group with respect to control. As a result, MCE clearly has a protective effect against ethanol-induced gastric mucosal lesions, and this effect, at least in part, depends upon the reduction in lipid peroxidation and augmentation in antioxidant activity.

Tissue trace and major element levels in organophosphate insecticide fenthion (Lebaycid) toxicity in rats: prophylactic and therapeutic effect of exogenous melatonin

Organophosphate compounds are very toxic chemicals and used in widespread applications. The present study was designed to examine the role of exogenous melatonin against organophosphate toxicity in tissues (brain, heart, jejunum, kidney, liver, lung, muscle and pancreas) trace and major element levels of rats. Trace and major element concentrations in the tissues were measured in the sham group, the control group, prophylaxis with the melatonin group and therapy with the melatonin group (TM) by inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy. Statistically significant differences among the experimental groups were detected for some tissue trace and major element concentrations. In the brain tissue, the Al, Mn and Se concentrations in the sham group were significantly higher than those in the control group (p<0.05). In the heart tissue, the Cu, Mn and Se concentrations in the sham group were significantly increased than those in the control group (p<0.05). In the kidney tissue, trace and major element concentrations in the TM group were significantly lower than those in the sham group (Fe and Mn; p<0.05, Cu, Mo, Ni, Ti, V and Zn; p<0.01). In the liver, Mg, Al, Zn and Ca concentrations in the TM group were significantly higher than those in the fenthion-treated control group (p<0.01). In the muscle tissue, element concentrations in the TM group were significantly lower when compared with the sham groups (Ca and Si; p<0.01). The Al, Cr, Mo, Ni, Si and Zn element concentrations were markedly decreased in the control group as compared with the TM group in the pancreas tissue (p<0.01). In conclusion, according to the results of the present study the major findings are that the fenthion-treated rat's tissue element levels were effected and the melatonin may normalize the altered levels of some trace and major elements of the tissues in organophosphate toxicity.

Investigation of oxidant and antioxidant pathway changes in acute rheumatic fever

AIM

The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of oxidant stress in the clinical process and pathogenesis of acute rheumatic fever (ARF).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study included 33 children with ARF and 20 healthy control subjects. The diagnosis of ARF was established according to the Jones Criteria. Malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), alpha-tocopherol, ascorbic acid, retinol and beta-carotene levels were measured as markers of oxidative stress together with some antioxidant markers.

RESULTS

Our study includes 33 (19 male, 14 female) children with ARF and 20 (11 male, 9 female) healthy control subjects. The mean age ranged between 5-16 years and 5-15 years in the study and control groups, respectively. MDA was measured as 2.1 +/- 0.9 nmol/mL in the control group, 3.3 +/- 2.7 nmol/mL in the study group before treatment, and 2.1 +/- 1.2 nmol/mL after treatment. Blood GSH levels were 48.2 +/- 12.7 mg/dL in the control group, 24.7 +/- 16 mg/dL in the study group before treatment, and 40.6 +/- 21.3 mg/dL in the study group after treatment. MDA and GSH levels prior to the treatment were found to be significantly high and low as compared with the levels of the control group, respectively (P < 0.05, P < 0.001). After treatment, statistically important decrements and increments were determined in the levels of MDA (P < 0.05) and GSH (P < 0.01), respectively. Furthermore, alpha-tocopherol, retinol and beta-carotene levels prior to treatment in the study group, were significantly lower in comparison with control group levels (P = 0.05, P < 0.05, P < 0.01, respectively).

CONCLUSION

We suggested that tissue damage in ARF may not only occur in the presence of increased oxidative stress, but also as a consequence of decreased antioxidant markers.

Brief Clinical Report: EVALUATION OF ANTIOXIDANT STATUS IN CHILDREN WITH ACUTE BACTERIAL MENINGITIS AND ENCEPHALITIS

Antioxidant status was investigated in children with acute bacterial meningitis and encephalitis to investigate the possible role of free radicals in children with meningitis and encephalitis. Our study included 16 children with acute bacterial meningitis, 13 with encephalitis, and 17 control subjects. Serum ceruloplasmin, uric acid, albumin, bilirubin superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) levels were studied in all subjects within 6 h of admission. There was a statistically significant difference between the groups for all parameters except for serum uric acid. All antioxidant activities except for albumin level were increased in the study groups. Albumin level was higher in the control group than those of meningitis and encephalitis groups. When the values of meningitis and encephalitis were compared, there was a statistically significant difference between the groups for serum SOD, GPx, ceruloplasmin, and albumin. In conclusion, our study showed that serum SOD, GPx, catalase, and ceruloplasmin were higher in children with acute bacterial meningitis and serum SOD, GPx, catalase, ceruloplasmin, and total bilirubin levels were increased in children with encephalitis. These findings suggest that antioxidant status was almost similar in both acute bacterial meningitis and encephalitis conditions in childhood.

Dantrolene can reduce secondary damage after spinal cord injury

The aim of this experimental study was to investigate the possible protective effects of dantrolene on traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI). Twenty-four New Zealand rabbits were divided into three groups: Sham (no drug or operation, n = 8), Control (SCI + 1 mL saline intraperitoneally (i.p.), n = 8), and DNT (SCI + 10 mg/kg dantrolene in 1 mL, i.p., n = 8). Laminectomy was performed at T10 and balloon catheter was applied extradurally. Four and 24 h after surgery, rabbits were evaluated according to the Tarlov scoring system. Blood, cerebrospinal fluid and tissue sample from spinal cord were taken for measurements of antioxidant status or detection of apoptosis. After 4 h SCI, all animals in control or DNT-treated groups became paraparesic. Significant improvement was observed in DNT-treated group, 24 h after SCI, with respect to control. Traumatic SCI led to an increase in the lipid peroxidation and a decrease in enzymic or non-enzymic endogenous antioxidative defense systems, and increase in apoptotic cell numbers. DNT treatment prevented lipid peroxidation and augmented endogenous enzymic or non-enzymic antioxidative defense systems. Again, DNT treatment significantly decreased the apoptotic cell number induced by SCI. In conclusion, experimental results observed in this study suggest that treatment with dantrolene possess potential benefits for traumatic SCI.

The effects of Panax ginseng and Spirulina platensis on hepatotoxicity induced by cadmium in rats

Cadmium is an environmental and industrial cumulative pollutant that affects many organs, specially the liver. The protective effect of Spirulina platensis and Panax ginseng on cadmium-induced oxidative stress and hepatotoxicity was evaluated in adult female Wistar albino rats. At the end of the 1-month experimental period, all animals were fasted for 12h and liver samples were taken for the determination of malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and nitric oxide (NO) levels. S. platensis and P. ginseng treatments showed marked decrease lipid peroxidation and increase of the endogenous antioxidants levels. The cadmium-induced histopathological changes were also minimized with the tested extracts. These results suggest that S. platensis and P. ginseng might play a role in reducing the toxic effect of cadmium and its antioxidant properties seem to mediate such a protective effect.

Antioxidative role of melatonin in organophosphate toxicity in rats

Previous studies revealed that oxidative stress could be an important component of the mechanism of organophosphate (OP) compound toxicity. The aim of the present study was to investigate both prophylactic and therapeutic effects of melatonin against fenthion-induced oxidative stress in rats. Therefore, we determined the changes in the levels of reduced glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) in the whole blood, brain, pectoral muscle, liver, lung, heart, kidney, pancreas, and jejunum. Also, the changes in the levels of serum nitrite and nitrate, ascorbic acid, retinal, b-carotene, and ceruloplasmin were measured. In addition, activities of enzymatic antioxidants superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and catalase (CAT) in erythrocyte of normal and experimental animals were measured. It was found that fenthion administration increased the levels of MDA in all tissues and decreased or increased the levels of GSH in some tissues. In comparison to nitrate, nitrite and ascorbic acid levels in the serum of experimental groups, there was no significant difference between groups. However, fenthion toxicity led to decrease in retinol and beta-carotene levels; melatonin administration significantly prevented this decrease. Serum ceruloplasmin level was increased due to fenthion administration, but prophylactic and therapeutic melatonin administration inhibited the increase in ceruloplasmin level of serum. There was no significant change in SOD levels in melatonin-administered groups. Melatonin modulates the fenthion-induced changes in the activities of GPx and CAT. In conclusion, the results of the current study revealed that OP toxicity, induced by fenthion, activated oxidant systems in all antioxidant systems in some tissues. Melatonin administration led to a marked increase in antioxidant activity and inhibited lipid peroxidation in most of tissues.

Beneficial effect of N-acetylcysteine against organophosphate toxicity in mice

Recent studies showed that oxidative stress could be an important component of the mechanism of organophosphate (OP) compounds toxicity. The aim of present study was to investigate either prophylactic and therapeutic effects of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) against fenthion-induced oxidative stress in mice. Additionally, the effects on survival rates were investigated. Therefore, we determined the changes of the blood levels of glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA), nitrite, and nitrate in blood or serum. Additionally, all animals were observed for 6 h and the survival rates were recorded. It was found that fenthion administration increased the levels of MDA, and decreased the levels of GSH, nitrite and nitrate. On the other hand, both prophylactic and therapeutic NAC treatment decreased the levels of MDA, and increased the levels of GSH, nitrite, and nitrate. The results showed that NAC is able to attenuate the fenthion-induced oxidative stress whereby NAC has not only prophylactic but also therapeutic activity in fenthion poisoning. On the other hand, we found that NAC can clearly improve survival rates in mice administered with an acute high dose of fenthion poisoning. In conclusion, NAC can decrease OP-induced oxidative stress and mortality rate, but the exact mechanism of its NAC protective effect needs to be explored further.

Effect of grape seed extract on lipid peroxidation, antioxidant activity and peripheral blood lymphocytes in rats exposed to x-radiation

The present studies were designed to evaluate supplemental grape seed extract (GSE) and vitamin E supplements on lipid peroxidation, on antioxidant systems and peripheral blood lymphocytes in rats exposed to x-rays. Three groups of rats were investigated: a control group (CG) received intraperitoneal (i.p.) physiological serum 1 mL/day (n=10), i.p.; a vitamin E group (VG) received 50 mg/kg/day (n=10); an i.p. grape seed extract group received 50 mg/kg/day (n=10). Four weeks later, a 6 Gy radiation dose was given to the rats. Blood samples were taken 24 h later after irradiation and lymphocyte, malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), nitrate, nitrite, reduced ascorbic acid, retinol, beta-carotene and ceruloplasmin concentrations were analysed. The levels of GSH (p<0.05), retinol (p<0.001), beta-carotene (p<0.05) and ceruloplasmin concentration (p<0.001) in the GSE group were found to be higher than in the control group but the level of MDA (p<0.001) and nitrite concentration (p<0.05) in rats supplemented with GSE were found to be lower than in the control group. The results indicate that GSE enhanced the antioxidant status and decreased the incidence of free radical-induced lipid peroxidation in blood samples of rats exposed to x-radiation. The antioxidant effect of GSE given to animals was more effective than vitamin E administered before whole-body irradiation in rats.

Oxidant and non-enzymatic antioxidant status in measles

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease of childhood associated with serious complications and significant morbidity and mortality. In the present study, antioxidant and oxidant status was investigated in children with measles. Our aim was to evaluate the possible changes in non-enzymatic antioxidant levels and their relationship to the oxidative stress in measles. According to our knowledge, there are no data about the blood levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH) and vitamin C in measles. We measured the whole blood MDA (as a marker of lipid peroxidation) and GSH, and serum beta-carotene, retinol, alpha-tocopherol and ascorbic acid levels in all subjects. There was a statistically significant difference between the groups for all parameters (p < 0.05). Non-enzymatic antioxidant status was found to be decreased but, lipid peroxidation was increased in the study group. As a conclusion, these findings suggested that oxidant and antioxidant defence system were altered in children with measles.

Beneficial effects of Foeniculum vulgare on ethanol-induced acute gastric mucosal injury in rats

AIM: To examine the anti-ulcerogenic and antioxidant effects of aqueous extracts of Foeniculum vulgare (FVE) on ethanol-induced gastric lesions in rats.

METHODS: FVE was administered by gavage at doses of 75, 150 and 300 mg/kg, and famotidine was used at the dose of 20 mg/kg. Following a 60 min period, all the rats were given 1 mL of ethanol (80%) by gavage. One hour after the administration of ethanol, all groups were sacrificed, and the gastric ulcer index was calculated; whole blood malondialdehyde (MDA) and reduced glutathione (GSH), serum nitrate, nitrite, ascorbic acid, retinol and β-carotene levels were measured in all the groups.

RESULTS: It was found that pretreatment with FVE significantly reduced ethanol-induced gastric damage. This effect of FVE was highest and statistically significant in 300 mg/kg group compared with the control (4.18 ± 2.81 vs 13.15 ± 4.08, P < 0.001). Also, pretreatment with FVE significantly reduced the MDA levels, while significantly increased GSH, nitrite, nitrate, ascorbic acid, retinol and β-carotene levels.

CONCLUSION: FVE has clearly a protective effect against ethanol-induced gastric mucosal lesion, and this effect, at least in part, depends upon the reduction in lipid peroxidation and augmentation in the antioxidant activity.

In vivo radioprotective effects of Nigella sativa L oil and reduced glutathione against irradiation-induced oxidative injury and number of peripheral blood lymphocytes in rats

Radiotherapy is one of the most common therapies for treating human cancers. Several studies have indicated that irradiation induces reactive oxygen species (ROS), which play an important role in radiation damage of the cell. It has been shown that Nigella sativa L. (NS) and reduced glutathione (GSH) have both an antiperoxidative effect on different tissues and a scavenger effect on ROS. The purpose of this study was to determine the antioxidant and radio-protective roles of NS and GSH against irradiation-induced oxidative injury in an experimental model. The NS group was administrated NS (1 mL/kg body weight), the GSH group was injected GSH (150 mg/kg body weight) and the control group was given physiologic saline solution (1 mL/kg body weight) for 30 consecutive days before exposure to a single dose of 6 Gy of radiation. Animals were sacrificed after irradiation. Malondialdehyde, nitrate, nitrite (oxidative stress markers) and ascorbic acid, retinol, beta-carotene, GSH and ceruloplasmin (nonenzymatic antioxidant markers) levels and peripheral blood lymphocytes were measured in all groups. There were statistically significant differences between the groups for all parameters (P < 0.05). Whole-body irradiation caused a significant increase in blood malondialdehyde, nitrate and nitrite levels. The blood oxidative stress marker levels in irradiated rats that were pretreated with NS and GSH were significantly decreased; however, non-enzymatic antioxidant levels were significantly increased. Also, our results suggest that NS and GSH administration prior to irradiation prevent the number of alpha-naphthyl acetate esterase peripheral blood T lymphocytes from declining. These results clearly show that NS and GSH treatment significantly antagonize the effects of radiation. Therefore, NS and GSH may be a beneficial agent in protection against ionizing radiation-related tissue injury.

Relationship between antioxidant capacity and oxidative stress in children with acute hepatitis A

AIM: To investigate in children with acute hepatitis A. According to our knowledge, there are no data about the blood levels of malondialdehyde (MDA, an indicator of oxidative stress) and nonenzymic antioxidants in children with acute hepatitis A.

METHODS: Whole blood MDA and reduced glutathione (GSH), serum β-carotene, retinol, vitamin E and vitamin C levels were studied in 19 (10 females, 9 males) children with acute hepatitis A and in 29 (13 females, 16 males) healthy control subjects.

RESULTS: There was a statistically significant difference between patients and controls for all parameters (P < 0.05). Lipid peroxidation marker MDA was significantly elevated (P < 0.001), while antioxidants β-carotene, retinol and GSH were significantly decreased (all P < 0.001) in patients compared to healthy subjects. In addition, α-tocopherol and ascorbic acid levels were significantly lower in patients when compared to age and sex matched controls (P < 0.05, P < 0.01, respectively).

CONCLUSION: Our study shows that hepatitis A virus induces oxidative stress in childern with hepatitis A. This finding could be taken into consideration to improve the therapeutic approach in acute hepatitis A.

Oxidative stress and enzymic–non-enzymic antioxidant responses in children with acute pneumonia

In this article, oxidative stress and enzymic-non-enzymic antioxidants status were investigated in children with acute pneumonia. Our study included 28 children with acute pneumonia and 29 control subjects. The age ranged from 2 to 11 years (4.57+/-2.13 years) and 2 to 12 years (4.89+/-2.22 years) in the study and control groups, respectively. Whole blood malondialdehyde (MDA) and reduced glutathione (GSH), serum beta-carotene, retinol, vitamin C, vitamin E, catalase (CAT), ceruloplasmin (CLP), total bilirubin, erythrocyte superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) levels were studied in all subjects. There was a statistically significant difference between the groups for all parameters except for serum CAT. Whole blood MDA, serum CLP and total bilirubin levels were higher in the study group than those of the control group. However, SOD, GPx, beta-carotene, retinol, vitamin C, vitamin E and GSH levels were lower in the study group compared with the control group. All antioxidant vitamin activities were decreased in children with acute pneumonia. Our study demonstrated that oxidative stress was increased whereas enzymic and non-enzymic antioxidant activities were significantly decreased in children with acute pneumonia.

Anti-oxidant activity in measles

BACKGROUND

Measles leads to serious complications, especially in developing countries.

AIM

Our aim was to evaluate the effect of oxidative stress on the enzymatic and non-enzymatic anti-oxidant status in children with measles.

METHODS

Levels of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, catalase, ceruloplasmin, albumin, total bilirubin and uric acid were studied in 17 children with measles and 29 healthy controls.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

There was a statistically significant difference between the groups for all parameters. All of the anti-oxidant activities except for albumin level were increased in the study group. Both enzymatic and nonenzymatic anti-oxidant defence systems were affected in measles.

Oxidant and antioxidant levels in children with acute otitis media and tonsillitis: a comparative study

OBJECTIVE

Recurrent episodes of acute otitis media (AOM) and acute tonsillitis (AT) are a common problem in infectious disorders during childhood and are major cause of morbidity in children. The organism maintains defense systems including nonenzymatic antioxidants such as Vitamins A, E and C and reduced glutathione (GSH) against reactive oxygen species (ROS). In the present study, lipid peroxidation status and nonenzymatic antioxidant capacity were investigated in children with AOM and AT. Our aim was to compare the lipid peroxidation and responses of the body's antioxidant status in the closely associated infections such as AOM and acute tonsillitis.

METHODS

The study included 23 (14 males, 9 females) children with AOM, 27 (14 males, 13 females) with AT and 29 (16 males, 13 females) healthy control subjects. The ages of the study and control subjects were between 2 and 7 years. Serum beta-carotene, retinol, Vitamin E, Vitamin C, and whole blood malondialdehyde (MDA) (as an indicator of lipid peroxidation) and GSH levels were studied in all subjects.

RESULTS

There was a statistically significant difference between the groups for all parameters (P<0.05). All of the antioxidant vitamins such as beta-carotene, retinol, Vitamin E, and Vitamin C levels were observed to be significantly decreased in the both patient groups. Nevertheless, GSH levels were also decreased in the patient groups. MDA levels were found to be higher in children with AOM and AT than in the healthy control subjects. When compared the AOM and AT groups, there was statistically significant difference between the groups for whole blood MDA (P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Even though they seem to react in a similar way against ROS, in the cases of AOM and AT, it is possible to see the different approaches in these tissues for the oxidative stress.

Investigation of antioxidant status in children with acute otitis media and tonsillitis

OBJECTIVE

Antioxidant enzymes status was investigated in children with acute otitis media (AOM) and acute tonsillitis. The aim was to determine the effect of oxidative damage due to free radicals on the antioxidant enzymes status in children with AOM and acute tonsillitis.

METHODS

We measured erythrocyte levels of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and activity of serum catalase, ceruloplasmin, albumin and total bilirubin in 23 children with AOM, 27 with acute tonsillitis and 17 control subjects.

RESULTS

There was statistically significant difference between the groups for all parameters. All antioxidant activities except for albumin level were increased in the studies groups. When the values of AOM and acute tonsillitis were compared, there was statistically significant difference between the groups for erythrocyte GPx.

CONCLUSION

Our findings indicate that not only a few antioxidant enzymes but almost all antioxidant activities showed a significant enhancement in children with AOM and acute tonsillitis.

Brief clinical study: Lipid peroxidation and antioxidant status in children with acute purulent meningitis and encephalitis

In this study, lipid peroxidation and antioxidant status were investigated in children with acute bacterial meningitis and encephalitis. The aim was to determine whether there was a possible role of free radicals in meningitis and encephalitis in childhood. Our study included 16 children with acute bacterial meningitis, 13 with encephalitis, and 17 control subjects. Serum malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, and retinol levels were studied in all subjects within 6 h of admission. There was a statistically significant difference for serum MDA, GSH, and vitamin C between the groups. Serum MDA and vitamin C levels were higher, and serum GSH levels were lower in the study groups compared to the control group. Vitamin C levels were similar in both the encephalitis and control groups, but they were significantly lower in the children with encephalitis than the meningitis group. In conclusion, our study showed that serum MDA and GSH levels were affected in children with both meningitis and encephalitis, but vitamin C level was affected only in children with meningitis. Serum vitamin E, beta-carotene, and retinol levels were not changed in childhood meningitis and encephalitis.

Effects of Nigella sativa L. and Urtica dioica L. on Lipid Peroxidation, Antioxidant Enzyme Systems and Some Liver Enzymes in CCl4-Treated Rats

This study was designed to investigate the effects Nigella sativa L. (NS) and Urtica dioica L. (UD) on lipid peroxidation, antioxidant enzyme systems and some liver enzymes in carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-treated rats. A total of 60 healthy male Sprague-Dawley rats were utilized in this study. The rats were randomly allotted into one of four experimental groups: A (CCl4-only treated), B (CCl4 + UD treated), C (CCl4 + NS treated) and D (CCl4 + UD + NS treated), each containing 15 animals. All groups received CCl4 [0.8 ml/kg of body weight, subcutaneously, twice a week for 90 days starting day 1]. In addition, B, C and D groups also received daily intraperitoneal injections of 0.2 ml/kg NS or/and 2 ml/kg UD oils for 45 days starting day 46. Group A, on the other hand, received only 2 ml/kg normal saline solution for 45 days starting day 46. Blood samples for the biochemical analysis were taken by cardiac puncture from five randomly chosen rats in each treatment group at beginning, at 45th and at 90th day of the experiment. The CCl4 treatment for 45 days increased the lipid peroxidation and liver enzymes, and also decreased the antioxidant enzyme levels. NS or UD treatments (alone or combination) for 45 days starting day 46 decreased the elevated lipid peroxidation and liver enzyme levels and also increased the reduced antioxidant enzyme levels. Live weights of the rats decreased in group A, and increased in groups B, C and D. It is concluded that NS and UD decrease the lipid peroxidation and liver enzymes, and increase the antioxidant defence system activity in the CCl4-treated rats.