Background: Epidemiological studies have reported associations between air pollution and the risk of developing pulmonary diseases. Dakar, the capital of Senegal, is currently experiencing rapid urbanization with the development of new infrastructures such as the toll highway. The traffic on this road is heavy, which could be a significant source of air pollution. Our study aimed to assess the ventilatory function of toll highway workers in Dakar (EIFFAGE agents) exposed to traffic-related air pollution. Methods: The study was conducted between March 2018 and October 2020 on a cohort of 122 toll highway workers in the Dakar region. Data were collected on work duration, lifestyle, and anthropometric parameters (age, body mass index: BMI). Ventilatory function was assessed using a spirometer (Spirobank II). The level of air pollution in the study area was assessed. Results: The agents worked 48 hours per week, with shifts of 8 hours per day. None of the participants had a known history of respiratory disease. Spirometric evaluation showed that 14% of participants had ventilatory disorders: 3% had asthma, 7% had chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and 4% had probable isolated pulmonary restriction. The risk of developing asthma or restrictive lung disease was not statistically significant in smokers compared to non-smokers. However, smoking appeared to significantly increase the risk of developing COPD [p = 0.0002; OR (95% CI): 5.79 (2.28-14.07)]. Moreover, the study area is highly polluted (with monthly concentrations 180 to 220 µg/m³ and 60 to 120 µg/m³ for PM10 and PM2.5, respectively). Conclusion: The road traffic on the Dakar toll highway is a significant source of air pollution to which agents may be exposed. This exposure could trigger or worsen ventilatory disorders such as asthma or COPD. Preventive measures are essential to mitigate the harmful effects of automobile-related air pollution.
This is a proceeding of the Abstracts presented by the authors in the joint Congress of the African Association of Physiological Sciences (AAPS) and The Egyptian Society of Physiological Sciences (ESPS) that was held from 13th to 15th February 2025 at Ismailia, Egypt.
Background: The most important cause of pulmonary diseases among people with spray paint-related occupations is inhalation poisoning which can progress to serious and potentially fatal outcomes if not treated promptly. This study aimed to investigate the effects of aqueous leaf extract of Momordica charantia on spray paint-induced pulmonary pneumonia in the adult Wistar rat. Methods: A total of thirty adult Wistar rats weighing 238-268 g were divided into five groups of six rats each. Group A (Control group) received only feed and water. Group B rats were exposed to 2 puffs of spray paint for 1 hour daily. Group C rats received 500mg/kg body weight per day (BWT/D) of Momordica charantia. Groups D and E rats were exposed to spray paint and received 250mg/kg BWT/D and 500mg/kg BWT/D of Momordica charantia respectively. The dosages of the extract were given for thirty (30) consecutive days via an orogastric tube On day 30 of exposure, the animals were euthanized under chloroform anaesthesia and the lungs were harvested and processed for histological examination. Also, blood samples were collected for haematological analysis. The obtained data were analyzed using the one-way Analysis of Variance, with level of significance set at <0.05. Results: There were significant changes in blood parameters, including decreased lymphocytes, red blood cells and other red cell indices. Histological analysis of lung tissues revealed abnormal architecture in exposed group B. Given the similar biological responses in rats and humans, protective measures are crucial for individuals occupationally exposed to spray paint. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that Momordica charantia has a protective role in combating spray paint-induced pulmonary pneumonia, characterized by reduced severity of alveolar dilation, vascular ulceration, alveolar exudates and interstitial inflammation in Wistar rats.
Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the antisickling activity of a hydro-ethanolic extract of Ficus abutilifolia leaves using an in vitro model with red blood cells from AS and SS sickle cell subjects. Materials and Methods: Emmel tests were conducted on blood samples collected from for healthy subjects AA, for healthy subjects AS and for subjects SS using a freshly prepared sodium metabisulphite solution. The average age of the subjects was 18 years. There were 8 women, including 4 with SS, 2 with AS, and 2 healthy subjects, as well as 4 men, including 2 with AS and 2 healthy subjects. In eight experiments, the samples were pretreated with a solution of Ficus abutilifolia leaf extract at varying concentrations (1.25 and 2.5 mg/ml). Micrographs were then taken for quantification purposes. Results: The findings indicate that, in the basal state, SS subjects had a higher sickle cell count (90.15%) compared to AS subjects (73.15%). The Ficus abutilifolia leaf extract (EFFA) resulted in a significant reduction in the sickle cell count in SS subjects, with the rate dropping from 90.15% to 20.93% at a concentration of 1.25 mg/ml. In AS subjects, the sickle cell count decreased from 73.15% to 10.75% at the same concentration. However, increasing the extract concentration to 2.50 mg/ml seemed to lessen this effect, with only a slight reduction in the preventive effect on sickling. **** p < 0.0001 for inhibitory effect versus control. Conclusion: These results indicate that the Ficus abutilifolia leaf extract exhibits an antisickling activity, which supports its use in traditional medicine.
Background:Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of mortality worldwide and cadmium as one of the environmental toxicants contributes adversely to cardiac damage. Hence, this study investigated the cardioprotective potential of Cucumis sativus on cadmium-induced toxicity in male Wistar rats. Method: Porcine Sixteen rats weighing between 100 and 180g were grouped with four (A to D) four rats each. Group A was control, Group B-D received 1.5mg/kg bw of cadmium, cadmium + 1mg/kg bw of C. sativus, cadmium +2mg/kg bw of C. sativus respectively. Administration was done orally using gavage for 14 days. IBM SPSS statistical software version 28, was used to analyze the data (P-value=<0.05). Results: Lactate dehydrogenase significantly (p<0.01) increased in cadmium untreated compared to control and decreased in C.sativus treated groups compared to cadmium untreated. Troponin T in cadmium untreated and C.sativus (1mg/kg) significantly (p<0.001) increased than control. Calcium and Potassium ions in cadmium untreated and C.sativus (1mg/kg) significantly (p<0.001) increased compared to control and decreased in C.sativus treated groups compared to control and cadmium untreated group. Cardiac-reduced glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and catalase in all treated groups significantly (p<0.001) decreased compared to control. Although, there was a significant increase in C.sativus treated groups compared to cadmium untreated. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) in cadmium untreated and C. sativus (1mg/kg) significantly (p<0.001) decreased compared to control. However, the C. sativus (2mg/kg) group significantly (p<0.001) increased compared to cadmium untreated and C. sativus (1mg/kg) treated group. Malondialdehyde (MDA) in all treated groups significantly increased compared to the control. Conclusion: It Treatment with C. sativus ameliorated the cardiac toxicity induced by cadmium. Hence, if these results apply to humans, using C. sativus for managing cardiac diseases and oxidative stress should be encouraged as it may possess cardioprotective properties.
Background: Acacia nilotica is a plant used in traditional medicine in Senegal for treatment of high blood pressure. The aim of this study was to determine whether a hydro-methanolic pod powder extract of Acacia nilotica (MSAN01) can induce a relaxant effect in porcine coronary arteries and to elucidate the underlying mechanism. Methods: Porcine coronary artery rings were suspended in organ chambers to record changes in isometric forces. Rings with intact endothelium were incubated with or without L-Nitro Arginine (L-NA, 300 µM) to block NO synthase; 1,12 bis[(2-methylquinolin-4-yl)amino]dodecane (UCL, 100 nM), an inhibitor of small-conductance calcium-activated potassium channels (SKCa); and Tram-34 (1 µM), an inhibitor of intermediate-conductance calcium-activated potassium channels (IKCa); or indomethacin (INDO, 10 µM), a cyclooxygenase inhibitor, before contraction with U46619 (1-60 nM), a thromboxane A2 analogue, and subsequent generation of a concentration-relaxation curve to hydro-methanolic pod powder extract of Acacia nilotica (MSAN01). In some experiments, the endothelium was removed before contraction with U46619 (1-60 nM) and concentration-relaxation with MSAN01. Bradykinin was used to verify the presence of functional endothelium. Results: Exposure The hydro-ethanolic pod powder extract of Acacia nilotica induces a vasodilatory effect in porcine coronary arteries pre-contracted with U46619. This effect is endothelium-dependent and mediated by nitric oxide (NO). Conclusion: It Acacia nilotica induces vascular relaxation, which may explain the beneficial effects of this plant in the treatment of high blood pressure in Africa.
Background: Fly ash dust is a harmful air pollutant that poses a major environmental and health risk. Previous research has linked fly ash dust to respiratory tract disease but its effects on the lung are not well understood. We aimed at investigating body weight, lung histoarchitecture, and haematological and biochemical changes in Wistar rats exposed to fly ash dust. Methods:Twenty-four Wistar rats (12 males, 12 females), weighing 250g-280g, were randomly assigned into 4 groups of 6 animals each. Group A rats were placed in a fly ash dust-free chamber while Group B - D rats were exposed to various concentrations of fly ash dust dispersed from 5g, 10g and 20g of fly ash, respectively. The weights of the animals were recorded weekly and body weight gain computed. At the end of 28th day of exposure, the rats were weighed and euthanized under chloroform anaesthesia. Blood samples were collected through cardiac puncture into plain specimen bottles for biochemical analysis and into EDTA anticoagulant bottles for haematological analysis. The lungs were harvested and processed for histological examination. The obtained data were analyzed using the one-way Analysis of Variance, with level of significance set at P<0.05. Results: Exposure to fly ash dust caused significantly reduced weight gain and haematological alterations in rats including decreased lymphocytes, haemoglobin, and red blood cells. Biochemical analysis revealed increased manganese, urea, and creatinine levels, indicative of manganese poisoning and renal impairment. Additionally, low serum bicarbonate (HCO3-) levels suggested acidosis. Histopathological examination confirmed normal lung architecture in the control group. There were observable histological variations in the lung architecture of the exposed rats (Groups B-D) which include bronchiolar ulceration, activated lymphoid follicles, and patchy alveolar collapse (evidence of pneumonitis). Given the similar biological responses, these effects of fly ash dust on rats can be reasonably extrapolated to humans, highlighting the importance of protective measures for individual occupationally exposed to fly ash dust. Conclusion: Fly ash dust caused body weight loss, histopathological changes in lung tissue, haematological and biochemical derangements which are capable of compromising lung, haematological, biochemical and renal functions, potentially resulting in fatal outcomes.
Background: Hyperglycaemia results in oxidative stress and activation of certain pathways such as that of aldose reductase, commonly observed in the development of diabetic nephropathy. The aim of this research was to evaluate the effect of resveratrol and pioglitazone co-administration in hyperglycaemia-induced nephropathy in type-2 diabetes. Methods: Thirty (30) adult male Wistar rats were induced with type-2 diabetes through high-fat-diet and fructose feeding for six weeks, followed by a single dose of 35 mg/kg streptozotocin (STZ) injection intraperitoneally. Rats with fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels of ≥ 200 mg/dL (20) were randomly divided into 5 groups of 4 rats each. Eight (8) other apparently healthy rats received regular diet and formed groups I and II of the experiment who received 1 ml/kg distilled water and 1 ml/kg carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) respectively, group III remained untreated, group IV, V, VI and VII received 100 mg/kg resveratrol, 5 mg/kg pioglitazone, 100 mg/kg resveratrol + 5 mg/kg pioglitazone and 1 mg/kg Lisinopril respectively. All interventions were given through oral route and lasted for six weeks post STZ injection. Rats were then fasted overnight and anaesthesized with 50 mg/kg ketamine hydrochloride and 25 mg/kg diazepam. Blood was collected via cardiac puncture in plain bottles and the right kidney of each rat was homogenized for biochemical assays. Data were analyzed and expressed as mean ± standard error of mean (SEM) using one way or repeated measure analysis of variance, followed by Tukey’s post-hoc test to compare level of significance, values of p ˂ 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: There was a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in FBG levels between the co-administration and diabetic untreated groups at weeks 8, 10 and 12. Activities of antioxidant enzymes SOD, CAT and GSH in kidney homogenate increased significantly with a corresponding statistical significant decrease in MDA concentration between co-administration and diabetic untreated groups. Also, significant decreases (p< 0.05) were seen in serum levels of aldose reductase and KIM-1 in the co-administration group compared to the diabetic control. Conclusion: The outcome of this study shows that resveratrol could potentially augment the effect of anti-diabetic drugs, in this case pioglitazone, in the prevention of diabetic nephropathy development in type-2 diabetes.
Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a growing public health concern worldwide, affecting an estimated 10% of the global population. Hence, this study investigated the nephroprotective potential of Cucumis sativus extract on cadmium-induced toxicity in male Wistar rats. Method: Sixteen rats weighing 100 to 180g were grouped into four groups (A to D) four rats each. Group A was control, Group B-D received 1.5mg/kg bw of cadmium, cadmium + 1mg/kg bw of C. sativus, and cadmium +2mg/kg bw of C. sativus respectively. The administration was done using gavage for 14 days, thereafter, blood samples and the liver were collected for biochemical assays. IBM SPSS statistical software version 28, was used to analyze the data (P-value=<0.05) Results: Urea significantly (p<0.001) increased in treatment groups compared to control, and significantly(p<0.001) decreased in the group treated with cadmium+2mg/kg C.Sativus compared to cadmium control. Creatinine significantly (p<0.001) increased in all treated groups than in control. Reduced glutathione significantly (p<0.001) reduced in cadmium control than control and increased in cadmium+C. sativus (1mg/kg) and cadmium+C. sativus (2mg/kg) than cadmium control. Glutathione peroxidase did not reveal any significant statistical difference amongst groups. Catalase significantly (p<0.001) decreased in treated groups than control. Superoxide dismutase in treatment groups significantly (p<0.001) decreased than control and increased in extract-fed rats than cadmium control. Malondialdehyde in treatment groups significantly (p<0.001) increased to the control and decreased in extract-fed groups than cadmium control. Aspartate aminotransferase significantly (p<0.001) increased across treated groups than control. Alanine aminotransferase significantly (p<0.001) increased significantly in treatment groups than in the control. Alkaline phosphatase in treatment groups significantly (p<0.001) increased compared to the control and decreased in extract-fed groups than in the cadmium control. Conclusion: It Based on these results, we conclude that C. sativus may possess nephroprotective agents that resulted in reduced serum urea, creatinine, and kidney oxidative markers, especially in the cadmium+C. sativus (2mg/kg) treated group.
Background: Insecticide poisoning is the most common cause of lung diseases among people with insecticide-related occupations which has significant morbidity and mortality if left untreated. This study aimed to investigate the effects of aqueous leaf extract of Moringa oleifera on dichlorvos-induced interstitial pneumonitis in the adult Wistar rat.Methods: Thirty (30) adult Wistar rats (male and female) weighing between 240 g and 270 g were divided into five (5) groups of six (6) rats per group. Group A rats were placed on feed and water only. Group B rats were exposed to only 2 puffs of dichlorvos (10 ml/puff) at a concentration of 100 mg/m3, administered at 10 am daily for 30 minutes via inhalation. Group C rats received 500mg/kg body weight per day (BWT/D) of Moringa oleifera. Groups D and E rats were exposed to dichlorvos via inhalation and received 250mg/kg BWT/D (low dose) and 500mg/kg BWT/D (high dose) of Moringa oleifera respectively. The Moringa oleifera dosages were given for 30 consecutive days via an orogastric tube. The weights of the animas in each group were taken and recorded weekly and the difference noted. At the end of the 30th day exposure, the animals were euthanized under chloroform anaesthesia and the lungs were harvested and processed for histological examination. The obtained data were analyzed using the one-way Analysis of Variance, with level of significance set at <0.05. Results: Exposure to dichlorvos did not affect body weight in rats, but it did cause significant changes in blood parameters, including decresed lymphocytes and red blood cells, and disruptions of other red cell indices, indicating haematoogical toxicity. This suggests that dichlorvos may have effects of the bood and haematoogical system, even if it doesn’t affect body werght. The histological sections of the lungs of rats in Group A, C, D and E showed normal histoarchitecture of the lungs. There were observable histological variations in the lung histoarchitecture of the exposed rats (Group B) which include bronchiolar haemorrhage, alveolar haemorrhage and interstitial infiltrates of inflammatory cells (evidence of interstitial pneumonitis).Conclusion: It was concluded that Moringa oleifera had an ameliorative effect on dichlorvos-induced interstitial pneumonitis in Wistar rats. Moringa oleifera is therefore valuable in combating interstitial pneumonitis.
Background: The high intake of high calorie, high fat diets (HFD) with an associatedsedentary lifestyle has been linked with a number of neurobehavioral and neuromusculardisorders. This study aimed at investigating the effect of a lipid lowering drug -Rosuvastatin (ROS) on anxiety-like behavior and muscle strength in HFD-fed mice.Methods: The animals were grouped into four (n=5); Group 1 (normal chow and water adlibitum); Group 2 (HFD ad libitum); Group 3 (HFD + ROS); Group 4 (HFD for 5 weeksthen ROS for 1 week). Thereafter, mice were subjected to elevated plus maze (EPM) testand wire hanging test (WHT). Animals were then killed and brain samples homogenizedand assayed for neurotransmitters and antioxidants. The blood samples were assayed forcalcium, uric acid and Malondialdehyde (MDA).Results: The HFD significantly (p<0.05) heightened anxiety in the mice which wasameliorated by ROS. Muscle strength was however decreased with ROS. Brain levels ofdopamine and serotonin were not significantly affected (p<0.05) by ROS likewisesuperoxide dismutase (SOD) and Catalase. Serum calcium and MDA were significantlyreduced by ROS.Conclusions: High fat diet induced anxiety in the animals and improved muscle enduranceon exertion. Rosuvastatin ameliorated the anxiety but reduced muscle strength and theproposed mechanism is suppression of MDA and Calcium functions respectively
Background: The lack of maternal behaviors represents a serious problem that endangers not only offspring survival but also offspring growth. Therefore, many mothers are seeking medication to improve maternal care and infant bonding. This study assessed maternal behavior and offspring growth throughout weaning process in dams treated with aqueous leaf extract of Jatropha tanjorensis (ALEJT).Methods: The rats were grouped into 2 (n=10); control received 20ml/kg of distilled water and Jatropha received 500mg/kg of ALEJT orally, and were treated throughout gestation and postnatal day (PND) 15-21. Non-pregnant rats were excluded from the study. Pup assessments: intrauterine growth indices (body length, tail length and birth weight), pup growth indices (alive at PND 1-7, 8-14, 15-21 and weaning weight) and reproductive index (live birth-, viability-, pre-weaning- and weaning- indexes). Maternal (pup retrieval, licking, crouching, resting with pup, nesting and sniffing pup) and non-maternal (resting alone, gnawing, self-grooming and feeding) behavior was observed every 2nd day from PND 2-15. At expiration of weaning dams were anesthetized with 60mgkg-1 of ketamine HCl and blood samples collected by cardiac puncture were used to assess serum levels of maternal hormones.Results: Litter size, live birth, live birth index and pups alive at PND 1-7 differed not significantly but pups body length, birth weight, weaning weight, weaning index (P<0.001), pups alive at PND 15-21, pre-weaning index (P<0.01), tail length, viability index and pups alive at PND 8-14 (P<0.05) increased significantly in Jatropha compared to control. Treated dams spent more time engaged in maternal behavior compared to control. Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) differed not significantly, but prolactin (PRL), estrogen (P<0.05), progesterone (P<0.01), luteinizing hormone (LH), oxytocin and relaxin increased significantly in Jatropha compared to control. Conclusions: According This study has shown that ALEJT enhances neuroendocrine hormones release which facilitates maternal caregiving, pups survival and growth.
Background: Scopolamine induced toxicity has been linked to impaired learning and memory, lipid peroxidation, oxidative stress and impairment of cholinergic transmission resulting in brain injury; which are synonymous with features of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease. Garlic oil has been found to be a possible therapeutic intervention. Its antioxidant and anticholinesterase activity were evaluated in scopolamine-induced brain toxicity in Wistar rats.Methods: The animals were grouped into seven groups (n=5). Group I (Normal Control) was given 1mL/kg distilled water for 14days P.O, Group II was treated with 90 mg/kg garlic oil for 14days P.O while Group III was treated with 2 mg/kg scopolamine IP daily for 14 days. Group IV was co-administered garlic oil (90mg/kg) orally and scopolamine 2mg/kg IP daily for 14 days. Group V had garlic oil orally at 90mg/kg for 7 days after 14 days of scopolamine. Group VI had donepezil at 3mg/kg orally co-administered with scopolamine at 2mg/kg IP daily for 14 days, Group VII 3mg/kg donepezil was administered orally for 7 days after 14 days of scopolamine. Elevated plus maze (EPM), was used to assess memory and learning. Thereafter, the rats were anesthetized using diethyl ether and the frontal cortices of the brain were harvested, homogenized and centrifuged. The supernatant was used to assay for dopamine, and malondialdehyde (MDA). The frontal cortices of the animals’ brains were subjected to histomorphological analyses.Results: Scopolamine significantly decreased (p<0.05) learning and memory while increasing MDA levels. Brain dopamine levels, and transfer latency in EPM were significantly reduced (p< 0.05) and neurodegenerative changes were seen in the brain. All these were significantly reversed in the garlic-oil treated groups.Conclusions: According to this study, garlic oil has antioxidant and anticholinesterase activities and may have therapeutic benefits against scopolamine-induced toxicity and diseases related to loss of memory.
Background: Obesity and prediabetes are reversible disorders affecting people globally with no sex predilection. They can progress to diabetes mellitus with resultant complications. Studies have shown greater involvement of high fat diets in the etiology of obesity and prediabetic conditions. Sunflower (Helianthus Anuus) extracts with an LD50> 5000mg/kg has been found to be effective in reducing high blood sugar levels in both human and animal studies. Sunflower seed powder was used in this study to investigate its effects on high fat diet (HFD) induced metabolic changes in Wistar rats.Methods: A total of 27 male Wistar rats (350 - 400 grams) were used for this study. They were randomly assigned to 9 groups of 3animals each and were fed for 6 weeks. Group 1 served as control (water and feed ad libitum) Group 2 (high fat diet alone); Group 3 (HFD + 5000mg/kg of sunflower seed concurrently); Group 4 (HFD + 3000mg/kg of sunflower seed concurrently); Group 5 (high fat diet + 2000mg/kg of sunflower seed concurrently ); Group 6 (HFD for 5 weeks + 5000mg/kg of sunflower seed for 1week); Group 7 (HFD for 5weeks + 3000mg/kg of sunflower seed for 1wk); Group 8 (HFD for 5 wks + 2000 mg of sunflower seed for 1wk); Group 9 (HFD for 5 wks + 70mg/kg Metformin for 1 week). Animals were anesthetized with ketamine and blood collected via cardiac puncture. Blood glucose measurement was done using the glucose oxidase method and plasma insulin levels were measured using ultra sensitive rats Insulin ELISA kit marketed by Crystal chem, specificity 100% and sensitivity, 0.05 ng/ml, serum glycated albumin and haemoglobin was measured using the Variant TMIIT urbohigh-performance liquid chromatography system. Harvested pancreatic tissues were fixed in 10% formalin for histomorphological analyses.Results: Blood glucose, plasma glycated haemoglobin in the HFD only group were significantly higher (p<0.05) compared to control and other groups. The sunflower treated groups with 5000mg, 3000mg and 2000mghad significantly decreased (p<0.05) insulin levels compared to control group and similar to metformin and HFD alone groups. Pancreatic histology results showed that HFD caused significant destruction of islet cells which was preserved in the sunflower co-administered groups.Conclusions: Sunflower seed significantly reduce blood sugar level, reduced HbA1c, and conferred cyto-protection on islets of Langerhan cells.
Background: Gastric ulcer affects many people worldwide and it is caused by many factors such as stress, medications, particularly non- steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, infections caused by Helicobacter pylori and Cytomegalovirus. Exposure to Cold restraint stress (CRS) has been established to cause oxidative stress leading to cellular death. Nacetyl-cysteine (NAC) is an antioxidant that protects the lipid bio-membrane against oxidative stress. This study investigated the effect NAC on gastric mucosal lesion and some biochemical changes in Wistar rats subjected to CRS. Methodology: Sixteen (16) adult male rats were divided into four (4) groups; Group I (Control): Distilled water/Kg Group II: Distilled water + CRS 3½ hrs (Ulcer group), Group III: NAC 500 mg/kg orally + CRS 3½ hrs Group IV: Ranitidine 50 mg/ kg + CRS 3½ hrs. All treatment lasted for 7 days while exposure to CRS was for 3½ hours on 7th day. Three hours after exposure of rats to CRS, rats of all groups were euthanized under diazepam and ketamine anesthesia. The stomach and blood samples were collected for physical and biochemical analysis. Data were analysed using ANOVA and p < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: The P index of NAC in CRS induced ulcer was found to be 66.7 %. A significant increase (P = 0.001) in body weight was observed in CRS + Ranitidine group, when compared to the control. A significant (P = 0.001) increase was observed in the INOS concentration in NAC + CRS, Ranitidine + CRS, when compared to the control. Conclusion: We surmise that acute administration of NAC significantly increased body weight of rats subjected to CRS. The high preventive index of N-acetyl cysteine on CRS induced ulcer was as the result of the antioxidant properties of NAC which might have contributed to its’ gastro protection against gastric mucosal lesions.
Background: There have been conflicting reports on the effect of Cannabis products on learning and memory. Hence this study investigated CBD oil's and prednisolone treatment's cognitive impact on cadmium-induced toxicity in male Wistar rats. Methods: Forty rats weighing between 150g to 200g were assigned into 8 groups (1-8) of five animals each. Group A control, Group B-H received 1mg/kg body weight prednisolone; 1.5mg/kg Cadmium; 1mg/kg pred+0.2mg/kg CBD-oil; 0.2mg/kg CBDoil+2mg/kg cadmium; 3mg/kg pred+2mg/kg cadmium; 0.1mg/kg CBD-oil and 0.2mg/kg CBD-oil respectively. The administration was done using gavage for 14 days. A T-maze test apparatus was used to determine the latency of object recognition before and after administration. Results: There was a significant decrease in latency of object recognition in prednisolone, cadmium, and 0.2mg/kg CBD-oil treated groups than control after administration. Calcium ion significantly (P<0.05) increased in the cadmium+ 0.1mg/kg CBD-oil treated group and decreased in the pred+CBD-oil group compared to the control. Acetylcholinesterase significantly (P<0.05) increased in prednisolone, pred+cadmium, and 0.2mg/kg CBD-oil treated groups and decreased in cadmium, pred.+CBD-oil, cadmium+CBD-oil, and 0.1mg/kg CBD-oil treated groups compared to control. Catalase significantly increased in pred+cadmium, 0.1mg/kg CBD-oil, and 0.2mg/kg CBD-oil treated groups compared to control. SOD significantly decreased in the treatment groups than the control. Malondialdehyde significantly increased in cadmium, pred+CBD-oil, cadmium+CBD-oil, 0.1mg/kg CBD-oil, and 0.2mg/kg CBD-oil than control. Glutathione peroxidase significantly decreased in treated groups compared to control. Reduced glutathione significantly decreased across treated groups than the control. Histology of the hippocampus revealed visible pathologic changes in pred+cadmium, 0.1mg/kg CBD-oil, and 0.2mg/kg CBD-oil treated groups with cellular vacuolization, Perivascular leucocyte infiltration, and pycnotic nuclei, indicating slight inflammation and detrimental effects of the treatment in the histoarchitecture of the hippocampus. Conclusions: CBD oil, prednisolone, and cadmium administration at different doses induced biochemical alterations, and exacerbated cognitive and neurobehavioral decline by enhancing oxidative stress, acetylcholinesterase activity, and alteration in the cytoarchitecture of the hippocampus
Background: Type-2 diabetes (T2D) is a hypercoagulable and hypofibrinolytic condition that predisposes to cardiovascular and thrombotic complications. We screened three medicinal plants (Albizzia chevalieri, Newbouldia laevis and Leptadenia hastate) for their antidiabetic and thrombolytic activities. Methods: T2D was induced with high fat diet and dexamethasone. Following induction, rats were grouped into 6 (n=8 rats); control, untreated, treated (500mg/kg body weight (BW) metformin only) or treated (300mg/kg BW leaf extracts). The rats were treated for two weeks and euthanized. About 2ml of the collected blood was used for thrombolytic activity assay while the rest was processed, and the recovered serum utilised for biochemical and hormonal assays. Results: Rats treated with extracts had significantly (p<0.05) lowered concentrations of serum glucose, TG, LDL-cholesterol, VLDL- cholesterol and increased HDL-cholesterol compared to untreated rats. Extracts also lowered (p<0.05) the serum insulin concentration on day 14 compared to untreated rats. Albizzia chevalieri, Newbouldia laevis and Leptadenia hastata showed 48.90%, 39.20% and 37.69% clot lysis activities respectively which was significantly higher (p<0.001) than distilled water, while streptokinase produced a substantial clot lysis of 93.70%. Conclusions: The leaf extracts of Albizzia chevalieri, Newbouldia laevis and Leptadenia hastata have antidiabetic and thrombolytic activities in type-2 diabetic rats and thus, can be potentially used as combined antidiabetic and thrombolytic agents with in vivo effects in type-2 diabetic patients.
Background: This study aimed to ascertain the effect of cannabidiol (CBD) oil and prednisolone on serum liver enzyme markers and hepatic oxidative stress markers on cadmium-induced toxicity in male Wistar rats. Forty (40) male Wistar rats weighing between 150g to 200g were assigned into 8 groups (A-H) of five animals each. Group 1 served as control, Groups 2-8 received 1mg/kg body weight of prednisolone; 1.5mg/kg bw of cadmium; 1mg/kg bw of prednisolone + 0.2mg/kg bw of CBD-oil; 0.2mg/kg bw of CBD-oil + 2mg/kg bw of cadmium; 3mg/kg bw of prednisolone + 2mg/kg of cadmium; 0.1mg/kg bw of CBD-oil and 0.2mg/kg bw of CBD-oil respectively. The administration was done using an orogastric tube (gavage) for 14 days. Results revealed a significant decrease in the concentration of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) in all treated groups compared to control. Furthermore, serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) showed a significant (p<0.05) decrease in all treated groups compared to control. There was a significant decrease in the concentration of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) in treated groups compared to the control. Liver catalase significantly increased in rats fed with pred +cadmium compared to control and other treated groups. Liver superoxide dismutase (SOD) significantly decreased in (p<0.05) the group treated with cadmium compared to the control and prednisolone groups. Liver malondialdehyde concentration did not reveal any significant change (p>0.05). Liver glutathione peroxidase significantly decreased in treated groups than in control. Liver-reduced glutathione significantly decreased across treated groups than the control. Histology of the liver revealed degeneration of hepatocytes and vascular congestion in groups treated with prednisolone, prednisolone+ cadmium, and CBD oil (0.2mg/kg). We conclude that CBD oil, prednisolone, and Cadmium administration at different doses decreased the concentration of serum liver enzyme and oxidative stress markers but caused local inflammation of the liver. If this study is applicable to humans, CBD-oil and prednisolone should be cautiously taken as they may likely present adverse effects, especially in people with liver disease.
Background: Despite the overwhelming evidence linking smoking and nicotine intake with vascular function impairments, the mechanisms involved and the possible ameliorative effect of black seed (Nigella sativa (NS)) oil administration are not clearly understood. This study sought to determine the involvement of nitric oxide synthase and voltage-sensitive potassium channels in the modulation of vascular reactivity in cigarette or nicotine-exposed rats treated with NS oil. Methods: Thirty male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into 6 groups comprising vehicle control (Control), NS oil only (NS), Smoke only (SMK), Smoke + NS oil (SMKNS), Nicotine only (NCT) and Nicotine + NS oil (NCTNS). Animals were either passively exposed to cigarette smoke or nicotine vapour for 12 weeks, however, NS oil treatment commenced from 9th-12th week orally. At the end of the 12-week experimental period, vascular reactivity to norepinephrine (NE), acetylcholine (ACh) and sodium nitroprusside (SNP) were assessed with or without the presence of L-nitro-arginine (LNA) or 4-Amino-pyridine (4AP). Results: Percent contractile response to NE was higher (p < 0.01) while relaxation response to ACh was lower in the SMK and NCT (p < 0.05) groups. LNA-induced inhibition to ACh was significantly reduced in both SMK and NCT groups. 4AP-induced inhibition to ACh was significantly increased only in the NCT group. 4AP-induced inhibition to SNP was increased in SMK group. NS oil reduced only contractile response to NE in NCT group. It also significantly improved relaxation response to ACh as well as restored LNA-induced inhibition to ACh in the SMK and NCT groups. Interestingly, while NS oil reduced 4AP-induced inhibition in the NCT group, it reduced 4AP-induced inhibition to SNP in the SMK group. Conclusion: NS oil ameliorates vascular dysfunction by reducing contractile response in rats exposed to nicotine vapour while increasing endothelium-dependent relaxation as well as restoring differentially both LNA- and 4AP-induced inhibition in rats exposed to cigarette smoke and nicotine vapour.
