Background: Interstitial pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive fibrotic lung disease increasingly associated with post-coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) complications. This study investigated the therapeutic effects of adipose tissue-derived stromal vascular fraction (At-dSVF) and colchicine, individually and in combination, on early bleomycin-induced IPF in a model of male albino rat. Materials and Methods: Fifty-five adult male albino rats (200±20 g) were randomly allocated into a donor group (n=5), a control group (Group I, n=24), and a bleomycin-treated experimental group (Group II, n=26). Group II was subdivided into untreated IPF (Subgroup IIA, n=8), colchicine-treated (Subgroup IIB, n=6), At-dSVF-treated (Subgroup IIC, n=6), and combined therapy (Subgroup IID, n=6) subgroups. Two rats from Subgroup IIA were sacrificed after two weeks to confirm IPF induction and were excluded from statistical analyses. IPF was induced using bleomycin sulfate (2 units (U)/kg body weight). Lung tissues were examined biochemically for malondialdehyde (MDA), catalase (CAT), hydroxyproline (HP), and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), histologically using H&E, Masson's trichrome and Perls' Prussian blue staining, immunohistochemically for cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and alpha smooth muscle actin (ASMA), and morphometrically. Results: Untreated IPF rats exhibited marked oxidative stress and fibrosis, with significant increases in MDA, HP, ICAM-1, collagen area percentage (%), COX-2 area%, and ASMA area%, together with a marked reduction in CAT activity. At-dSVF treatment produced greater improvement than colchicine alone, reducing collagen deposition and COX-2 expression. Combined therapy showed the most pronounced therapeutic effect, reduced MDA, HP, and collagen deposition to near-normal levels, with near-normal COX-2 and ASMA expression. Conclusion: Combined At-dSVF and colchicine therapy exerted superior anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic effects compared with either treatment alone, suggesting a promising therapeutic approach for the management of IPF.
Background: Aging has a profound impact on skeletal muscle, leading to a gradual reduction in muscle mass accompanied by declines in both strength, regenerative capacity and endurance. Hormonal depletion in females that occurs with aging affects the skeletal muscle structure and function. Purpose of the study is to perform an in-depth investigation of the mechanism underlying aging in skeletal muscles in females. Material & Methods: The present work was performed on 30 rats, that were classified into: 10 pre-pubertal rats, 10 adult rats and 10 senile rats. Before scarification, blood samples were collected to assess serum levels of estradiol and progesterone. After scarification, quadriceps muscles were dissected and excised, preserved in formaldehyde and subjected to routine histological examination, Masson trichrome staining, immunohistochemical staining with myogenin and COX-2 antibodies. Results: transverse sections of skeletal muscles of senile group elicited a marked decrease in fiber cross sectional area, with increased % of centrally nucleated fibers, in addition to increased collagen fraction area in Masson stained sections. Moreover, senile group showed a significant decrease of myogenin expression, denoting less regenerative capacity, while COX-2 protein, a key inflammatory regulator showed a significant increased positivity in aged rats, compared to younger age groups. Statistical follow up highlighted a moderate negative correlation between serum progesterone level and area % of COX-2 immune positivity. Conclusion: Aging in female rats is associated with disrupted skeletal muscle architecture, decreased myogenin expression with increased inflammatory activity, that is linked to estradiol and progesterone depletion. Keywords: Myogenin, estradiol, COX-2, progesterone, sarcopenia.
Background: Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory bowel disorder. Sulfasalazine (SLZ) is a drug used for the management of UC. Lycopene (LC) is an antioxidant carotenoid. Objective: to evaluate the protective efficacy of SLZ and LC alone or in combination on acetic acid (AA) induced colitis. Material & methods: Fifty adult male albino rats were randomly separated to 5 groups: Control group (I), group II was given 2 mL of AA intra-rectally for induction of colitis. Group III was received SLZ (100 mg/kg) for eight days by gastric tube. Group IV was given LC (10 mg/kg) for eight days by gastric tube. Group V was received both SLZ and LC in same doses for 8days. In III, IV& V groups; acetic acid was administered intra-rectally at the 8th day. Blood samples and colon specimens were prepared for biochemical and histopathological examinations. Results: The induced colitis group (II) exhibited a sloughing of the surface epithelium, disturbed crypt cells with pyknotic nuclei, and vacuolated cytoplasm, cellular infiltration, submucosal odema ,a significant decrease alcian blue goblet cells and a significant increase in TNF-α immune were observed .Scanning E/M revealed a widening of the crypt openings and cracks in the surface epithelium. Administration of SLZ and LC alone significantly ameliorate the biochemical and histopathological changes, significantly increased the alcian blue goblet cells and significantly reduced TNF-α immunoreactivity compared to group II. While the combination of SLZ and LC in group V has better results than group III and IV. Conclusion: Combination of SLZ and LC exhibited superior improvements in biochemical, histological, and morphometric results compared to using each one alone in protection from inducing colitis via their anti-inflammatory & anti-oxidative effects.
Abstract Background and aim of the work: One severe form of respiratory failure is acute lung injury (ALI). Early detection and supportive care are critical to improve outcomes. Investigating the effectiveness of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors against angiotensin receptor blockers in alleviating ALI induced by lipopolysaccharides (LPS) in adult male albino rats is the aim of this investigation. Materials & Methods: This study involved 26 male albino adult rats, about 12 weeks old and weighing between 200 and 220 grams that were divided into the following categories: Group I (N=6) is the control group. Group II (LPS only) (N=5): Rats obtained injections of LPS (5 mg/kg) IP once, then sacrificed after 6 hours. Group III (Recovery group) (N=5): Rats received LPS once, then sacrificed after 7 days. Group IV (LPS + Captopril) (N=5): Rats received one dose of LPS followed by 50 mg/kg of captopril daily dissolved in one ml of saline orally for seven days before being sacrificed. Group V (LPS + Losartan) (N=5): Rats received one dose of LPS IP followed by 10 mg/kg of losartan daily dissolved in one ml of saline orally for seven days before being sacrificed. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was analyzed, and lung specimens were evaluated for oxidative stress markers, and histologically examined using Haematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) and immunohistochemical stains. Results: Regarding Groups II and III, LPS disturbed the normal histological configuration of the lung tissues, elevated lung oxidative markers and (BALF) inflammatory cytokines, increased caspase-3,Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and CD68 immunoexpression with decreased CD206 immunoexpression. Group IV exhibited enhancement of the biochemical parameters and the lung tissues' architecture. However, group V showed the best results. Conclusion: Captopril and losartan both can ameliorate the LPS-induced acute lung injury, however, losartan showed superior results.
Background: Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is an additive commonly used in food industry products. Lymph nodes, spleen and thymus gland are affected, as a side effect of MSG. The antioxidant effects of Vitamin D are essential for shielding cells from damage caused by free radicals, as they help reduce oxidative stress and decrease the risk of cellular damage. Aim of the Work: This study sought to assess the impact of MSG on the thymus gland in developing male albino rats and to examine the potential protective effect of antioxidant doses of vitamin D. Material and Methods: A total of 120 male albino rats (aged 2 weeks) were divided into four main groups: group I Control, group II Vitamin D-treated group (1000IU /kg/day ), group III MSG-treated group(3gm/ kg /day), and group IV combination of MSG and Vitamin D-treated group. Each group was subdivided into 3 subgroups according to time of scarification at 4, 6, and 8 weeks. Thymic glands were dissected and processed for histological (hematoxylin & eosin and Masson’s Trichrome stains) and immunohistochemical (Caspase-3) studies. Morphometric analysis included measurements of thymic lobe diameter, medullary thickness, and area percentage of caspase-3 positive immunoreaction. Statistical analysis was performed using Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey’s post hoc tests. Results: MSG administration induced marked histological changes, including cortical and medullary disorganization and increased apoptotic activity by caspase-3 immunoreactivity. Morphometric parameters showed significant reductions in thymic lobe diameter and medullary thickness in MSG-treated rats. Co-administration of antioxidant doses of Vitamin D partially restored thymic architecture and reduced caspase-3 expression. Conclusion: MSG exerts deleterious effects on the developing thymus glands, characterized by structural damage and enhanced apoptosis. Administering antioxidant doses of Vitamin D can confer partial protection and reduce oxidative stress-induced thymic injury.
Background: Bisphenol A (BPA) is a common environmental pollutant that causes oxidative stress and endocrine disruption, leading to liver tissue damage and biochemical imbalances, particularly during pregnancy, Astragalus spinosus possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a promising candidate for mitigating BPA-induced liver toxicity, this study aimed to evaluate the histopathological and biochemical effects of BPA on liver tissue in pregnant white rats and to investigate the protective role of aqueous extract of the roots in improving liver structure and function. Methods: For 20 days, twenty-four female albino rats (150–180 gram) were randomly divided into six groups n=4, including control, extract-only, BPA-treated (250 and 500 mg/kg), and combined treatment groups. BPA was dissolved in olive oil and administered orally along with the extract. At the end of the experiment, blood samples were collected for biochemical analysis of liver enzymes Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT), Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) and Gamma –Glutamyle Transferase (GGT), and liver tissues were fixed in formalin and processed for histopathological examination using standard techniques. Results: The control and extract-only groups displayed normal enzyme levels and intact liver architecture, confirming the safety of the extract. Hepatotoxicity was shown by a notable dose-dependent rise in ALT,AST, and GGT levels following BPA exposure. Histological results shown hepatocyte hyperplasia, degeneration, hemorrhage, karyolysis, and necrosis, At the embryonic level, excessive doses of BPA resulted in stillbirths and undeveloped embryos, while the plant extract aided and lessened the harmful effects of the chemical, combined therapies considerably decreased enzyme levels and improved liver histology. Conclusion: The study results show that Bisphenol A triggered dose-dependent toxic effects, including elevated liver enzymes, histological alterations, and fetal growth disturbances. In contrast, the extract demonstrated a clear protective effect by improving biochemical and histological indicators and preserving fetal integrity, suggesting its potential importance in mitigating BPA-induced toxicity.
Introduction: The skin is susceptible to many forms of damage, and the traditional dressings are not sufficient to complete the healing process. The natural hydrogels have only recently been developed including Shea butter which is commonly used in cosmetics. Shea butter is the fat extracted from the nut of Africa Shea tree that utilized for skin care, and alternative skin therapy. Material and Methods: Twenty healthy male Albino rats were used to assess if topical African Yellow Shea Butter can promote skin wound healing. A circular, 1 cm in diameter, full-thickness skin incision was created in their dorsal midline and not sutured. The rats will be randomly divided into two groups: Control: animals were received a skin wound without treatment. Treatment: animals were received skin wound, followed by topical application of African Shea Butter Yellow over the incision twice daily along the study period. The skin tissue will be rapidly dissected out for histopathological examination on day 7 and 14. Results : On day seven, the control group's wounds showed a large wound area with a dense infiltration of inflammatory cells and a lot of inflammatory sero-fibrinous exudate, the epithelium was still damaged. While, treatment group displayed better healing profile. There was little exudate and little infiltration of inflammatory cells. Crucially, these wounds showed well-formed granulation tissue and well-developed re-epithelialization. The groups' differences became more obvious by day 14. Exudate, a dense inflammatory infiltration within the granulation tissue, and epithelial loss were all present in control wounds. Conclusion: Wounds treated with African Shea butter showed almost full healing. there was no inflammatory crust or exudate. African Shea Butter Yellow has significant effect on skin wound healing in rat.
Background: Diabetes mellitus induces severe oxidative stress, leading to cellular damage and liver dysfunction. This study evaluated the efficacy of Fumaria parviflora extract, alone and combined with Vitamin E, in normalizing liver dysfunctions, histopathological changes, and iron deposition, comparing them with insulin. Materials and Methods: Thirty-five (35) male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into seven groups (n = 5 in each group) for 4 weeks experimental period: 1) Normal control; 2) Diabetic control induced by alloxan (135 mg/kg); 3) Diabetic + Insulin (6 IU); 4) Diabetic + Vitamin E (150 mg/kg); 5) Diabetic + Fumaria parviflora extract (250 mg/kg); 6) Diabetic + Insulin + Vitamin E; and 7) Diabetic + Extract + Vitamin E. Results: Significant rise in serum liver enzymes (AST, ALT, ALP), hepcidin hormone and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels along with marked decrease in glutathione (GSH) levels in diabetic group. Histopathological, diabetic rats’ liver exhibited heavy iron deposits, steatosis, dense cell infiltration, venous congestion and hydropic degeneration. On the other hand, levels of hepatic enzymes, MDA, and hepcidin were significantly decreased with monotherapies and combination therapies, whereas GSH level was significantly increased. In addition, these treatments reestablished the normal histological architecture and reduced iron deposition in the liver, although dual treatments were the most effective treatments. Conclusion: The results shown here suggest that Fumaria parviflora extract has a high physiologic efficacy in hepatoprotection and the normalization of functional and histological parameters, added to Vitamin E. This therapeutic potential is due to its powerful antioxidant properties, iron chelating ability and the prevention of diabetes oxidative stress.
Background Renal ischemia–reperfusion is recognized as a critical pathological mechanism underlying acute kidney injury, primarily through the induction of oxidative imbalance, inflammatory signaling, and apoptotic cell death. Resveratrol, a naturally occurring polyphenol, has attracted considerable attention due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capabilities. Accordingly, this study explored the protective potential of resveratrol against renal injury induced by ischemia–reperfusion in rats. Materials and Methods Thirty-five male Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly assigned to five groups: control (no intervention), I/R group, I/R + DMSO (vehicle-treated), resveratrol-alone group, and resveratrol-treated I/R animals. Renal ischemia–reperfusion injury was induced by bilateral occlusion of the renal pedicles for 30 min followed by 2 h of reperfusion. Resveratrol (30 mg/kg, intraperitoneal) was administered 30 min before the onset of ischemia. Following reperfusion, kidney tissues were harvested for analysis. The levels of KIM-1, TNF-α, F2-isoprostane, HMGB1, and Bcl-2 were determined using sandwich ELISA assays, while renal structural alterations were evaluated through histopathological examination. Results Renal IRI significantly increased KIM-1, TNF-α, F2-isoprostane, and HMGB1 levels, while markedly reducing Bcl-2 expression compared with the control group. No significant difference was observed between the control and resveratrol-alone groups. Resveratrol pretreatment significantly attenuated renal injury by reducing inflammatory, oxidative, and damage-associated markers and restoring Bcl-2 levels compared with the I/R and I/R + DMSO groups, and ameliorating histopathological alterations.Conclusion Overall, resveratrol demonstrated a clear protective effect on the kidney in experimental ischemia–reperfusion injury. The observed benefits are likely related to its capacity to attenuate oxidative damage, modulate inflammatory processes, and regulate apoptosis-related mechanisms
The current study aimed to determine the physiological and histological role of exposure to spring water at different temperatures on the levels of sex hormones and oxidative stress enzymes in the Histological of the testis. Three experimental groups a control group, a hot water group, and a cold-water group were involved in the study, and the variables under investigation were measured at three distinct intervals. The control group's LH and testosterone concentrations did not significantly change between measurement times, according to the results, suggesting that hormonal function is stable under typical circumstances. On the other hand, both hormones significantly changed in the hot water and cold-water groups, with a notable drop at the middle measurement period and a notable rise at the end. This shift was particularly noticeable in the levels of testosterone, indicating that temperature has an impact on the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis. In terms of oxidative stress markers, the concentrations of GSH and MDA in the control group did not differ significantly from those in the hot and cold-water groups. However, at the midpoint of the measurement, GSH and MDA levels decreased, and at the end of the measurement, they significantly increased. This illustrates the antioxidant system's adaptive physiological reaction to heat exposure. The diameter of the seminiferous tubules and their lumen significantly decreased in both the hot and cold-water groups when compared to the control group, but there was no discernible difference between the two treated groups, according to histological results. We conclude from the results of our study that the two heat treatments had different effects on testicular tissues, as exposure to spring water at different temperatures may cause physiological and histological changes that affect the antioxidant system and hormonal balance, which may affect reproductive function.
Introduction: Tissue processing is an essential laboratory procedure for preparing normal or pathological tissue sections for microscopic examination. It provides a suitable description of cells and tissue structure for both normal and pathological diagnoses. This study aims to examine histological alteration in the kidney tissue of mice fixed with 10% neutral buffered formalin (NBF) for different fixation times (10, 20, and 30 days) in the treatment group, compared with a control group fixed for 48h. Material and methods: Forty-six male mice were used in the study. After dissection, the kidneys were collected, weighed before fixation, and then subjected to their respective fixation times. After each fixation period, the fixed kidney weight was measured. The tissue processing procedure was accomplished. Some tissue characteristics result from processing, which include (Consistency of specimens, the efficiency in cutting, and sectioning specimen characteristics). Also, technical and mechanical artifacts, including micro-tearing and tissue separation, Shrinkage artifacts, Fragmentation of tissue, and Staining verification (A: nucleus, B: cytoplasm, tissue artifact pigmentation) were recorded. Results: The results showed a significant difference in total kidney weight between the treatment and control groups; after fixation, the mean total kidney weight decreased in the treatment group compared with the control group. Also, there were significant differences between the previous two groups in specimen consistency, cutting efficiency, sectioning-specimen characteristics, micro-tearing and tissue separation, shrinkage artifacts, tissue fragmentation, staining verification, including brown formalin pigment deposits (tissue-artifact pigmentation), Eosinopenia/Fading, and loss of nuclear basophilia (A: nucleus; B: cytoplasm) at P≤0.05. Conclusion: This study found that 10% NBF provides optimal histological preservation at 48 hours in kidney tissue, whereas extended fixation times of 10, 20, and 30 days lead to structural degradation. Therefore, long-term storage of tissue specimens in NBF is not recommended.
Abstract This study was designed to investigate the impact of vitamin A overdose on bone remodeling and healing capacity in a femoral critical‑sized defect model. Thirty adult female rats, weighing 250–300 g, were randomly allocated into two equal groups. Group A (control) animals were maintained on a balanced diet and water under standard laboratory conditions. Group B (vitamin A group) received 50,000 IU/day of vitamin A (A‑Viton) via oral gavage for seven consecutive days. At the end of the dosing period, blood samples were collected for biochemical assessment of total calcium and albumin levels. Subsequently, a standardized 3 mm critical‑sized defect was surgically created distal to the femoral head in all rats. Animals were euthanized at 14 and 28 days post‑surgery for histopathological and radiological evaluation. Biochemical analysis revealed a significant elevation in total calcium levels in Group B compared to Group A, accompanied by a decline in serum albumin. Histopathological examination of Group B specimens demonstrated marked pathological alterations, including extravasated blood vessels, fibrosis, and granulation tissue, whereas Group A exhibited fewer inflammatory signs and a more gradual healing trajectory. Computed tomography analysis confirmed a significant reduction in bone mineral density in Group B relative to Group A, indicating impaired bone regeneration. In conclusion, excessive vitamin A intake enhances osteoclast differentiation, leading to bone mineral loss and increased susceptibility to fractures. Furthermore, it disrupts the delicate balance between bone resorption and formation, thereby compromising the healing of critical‑sized defects. These findings highlight the detrimental role of hypervitaminosis A in skeletal repair and remodeling.
Background: Vitiligo is a long-term pigmentation disorder that results from the targeted destruction or disappearance of melanocytes. Oxidative stress, immune dysregulation, and apoptosis are key mechanisms implicated in its pathogenesis. Melanocyte damage is associated with cleaved caspase-3 and high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1); however, their tissue expression patterns in vitiligo remain incompletely defined. Objective: To evaluate histological alterations and tissue expression of HMGB1 and cleaved caspase-3 in vitiligo lesions through histological examination, compared with normal control skin. Methods: This case–control study comprised 30 female patients with active non-segmental vitiligo aged 18–50 years and 30 age-matched healthy controls. Two skin biopsies were taken from each patient (lesional vitiliginous skin and adjacent non-lesional skin), while a single biopsy was collected from each control participant (from the back). Tissue sections were examined histologically using hematoxylin &eosin and Masson staining. Immunohistochemistry for HMGB1 and cleaved caspase-3 was performed, followed by morphometric analysis using ImageJ software. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way ANOVA, with Tukey's post hoc test applied for multiple comparisons. Results: Vitiliginous skin demonstrated complete absence of melanin pigment in basal layer of epidermis, disruption of the dermoepidermal junction, epidermal atrophy, swollen keratinocytes with pale vacuolated cytoplasm, and inflammatory infiltration. Masson staining revealed a significant increase in dermal collagen fibers in vitiliginous lesions. Immunohistochemically, HMGB1 expression was significantly increased, with nuclear and cytoplasmic localization in epidermal cells and dermal involvement. Cleaved caspase-3 expression was markedly elevated in epidermal cells and dermal fibroblasts. Morphometric analysis showed highly significant differences in HMGB1, cleaved caspase 3, and collagen fiber expression among the studied groups. Conclusion: Our findings that oxidative stress driven HMGB1 activation, inflammatory responses, apoptotic pathways, and dermal fibrosis contribute to vitiligo pathogenesis. Accordingly, HMGB1 and cleaved caspase-3 may represent significant diagnostic biomarkers and targets for future vitiligo therapies.
Background: Diabetes mellitus is a complex metabolic disorder defined by wide spread disruptions in nutrient metabolism. The detrimental effects of hyperglycemia on ovarian physiology are mediated through the induction of oxidative stress, which leads to DNA damage and cellular dysfunction. Aim: This research aims to provide a comparative evaluation of the effects of hyperglycemia on ovarian tissue in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced versus high-fat diet (HFD)-induced diabetic models. Methods: Twenty-four adult female albino rats were assigned randomly to three equal experimental groups, including a control group maintained on a standard chow diet, an STZ group that received daily intraperitoneal injections of streptozotocin at a dose of 40 mg/kg for five days, and an HFD group that was maintained on an HFD regimen for a total duration of 15 weeks. The blood samples were collected, and ovarian tissues were excised for histological and immunohistochemical evaluation. Results: The STZ and HFD groups showed significantly higher serum levels of nitric oxide and malondialdehyde, and significantly lower serum levels of glutathione, estrogen, and progesterone, compared with the control group. There was a notable increase in follicular diameter compared to the control group. Ovaries from both hyperglycemic groups demonstrated congested blood vessels, increased atretic follicles, and epithelial alteration. There was a markedly stronger phosphorylated form of histone H2A variant X (γH2AX) and caspase-3 expression in the HFD group, indicating enhanced DNA damage and apoptosis. Conclusion: Prolonged HFD-induced hyperglycemia causes marked oxidative stress, DNA damage, and significantly increased apoptotic activity in ovarian tissue compared to STZ-induced hyperglycemia, suggesting distinct mechanisms of metabolic and genotoxic injury.
Ziziphus spina-christi (Sidr), a member of the Rhamnaceae family, is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may contribute to reproductive health. Lithium carbonate, although widely used in the treatment of bipolar disorder, has been associated with adverse effects on male fertility. Methods: Thirty-six male albino rats were used in this study after a seven-day acclimatization period. The rats were randomly divided into six groups (n = 6) and treated for 21 days. The negative control group received a basal diet only; the rats supplemented with Sidr powder, rats treated with Sidr extract, and lithium carbonate-treated rats receiving lithium carbonate, lithium + Sidr powder, and lithium + Sidr leaf extract. Hematological parameters, antioxidant status, testosterone levels, sperm characteristics, and testicular histopathology were evaluated. Results: Administration of Sidr leaf powder or extract to normal rats produced no adverse effects on hematological parameters, antioxidant status, testosterone levels, sperm count, sperm motility, or sperm morphology compared with the negative control group. In lithium carbonate-treated rats, supplementation with Sidr leaf extract significantly improved antioxidant activity, testosterone levels, sperm count, sperm motility, and sperm morphology compared with the positive control group. Histopathological examination revealed that lithium carbonate induced degeneration of spermatocytes and vacuolation of Sertoli cell cytoplasm in the testes. Furthermore, both the lithium + Sidr powder and lithium + Sidr extract groups exhibited reduced inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) immunoreactivity. Conclusion: Sidr leaves, particularly in extract form, demonstrated protective effects against lithium carbonate-induced testicular damage and reproductive dysfunction. These findings suggest that Ziziphus spina-christi may serve as a potential natural therapeutic agent for mitigating the adverse effects of lithium carbonate on male reproductive health.
Background: By transforming harmful metabolites into elimination-safe substances, the liver is important in avoiding their accumulation. Toxic intermediate metabolites can build up in the body and cause acetaminophen (APAP) poisoning. Naringin (NRG) is a naturally occurring flavonoid that had been proven to serve as a strong anti-inflammatory, antiapoptotic and antioxidant agent. Aim of Work: To investigate the possible protective role of NRG on the structure of the liver of adult male albino rats in APAP-induced acute hepatic toxicity. Material & Methods: 30 adult male albino rats were assigned into four groups; Control group (I); NRG group (II), where rats were receiving a single oral dose of NRG (50 mg/kg, po); APAP group (III), where rats received a single dose of APAP (100 mg/kg, ip); and combined NRG & APAP group (IV), where rats were administered both drugs at former doses and routs with 3 hours interval in between. After 3 days, blood samples were taken from all rats before scarification for assessment of serum ALT. Paraffin sections from liver were taken, and prepared to be examined under light microscope Also, an immunohistochemical study was done using Caspase-3 antibody. Results: APAP-induced hepatotoxicity was reported biochemically by elevated serum ALT. Morphologically, fatty change and irregular large vacuolations were detected in hepatocytes. Moreover, significant decrease in hepatocytes’ glycogen content was noticed. Foci of focal hepatocellular necrosis were seen. These results were confirmed by moderate increase in caspase-3 reaction. These results were accompanied by foci of inflammatory cellular infiltration and collagen deposition in portal areas. Interestingly, NRG treatment effectively restored ALT serum level, hepatic structure with modulation of inflammation and collagen deposition. Conclusion: NRG can be used as a protective measure for APAP-induced hepatic toxicity due to it has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
ABSTRACT Background: Cadmium is a carcinogenic heavy metal that accumulates in the central nervous system and creates reactive oxygen species (ROS) and weakens antioxidant defences to cause oxidative stress. Aim of the work: This study investigated The potential of Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA), a strong antioxidant that is soluble in fat and water, to alleviate Cd-induced cerebellar damage in rat offspring. Materials& methods: There were four groups of pregnant albino rats: control, cadmium-treated (0.5 mg/kg), ALA-treated (20 mg/kg), and a protective group receiving both Cd and ALA. Treatments were administered starting on the first day of conception through to postnatal day 21 (PND21). Then, pups on 7th, 14th and 21st postnatal days were weighed, sacrificed and their cerebellum conserved for biochemical, histological and morphological evaluations. Data were analyzed by use ANOVA at p < 0.05. Results: indicated that maternal Cd exposure caused a highly significant decrease in offspring body weight and induced severe biochemical disruptions. Histological examination of the Cd group revealed degenerative changes, such as distorted Purkinje cells and delayed migration of the external granular layer (EGL). Immunohistochemical analysis showed increased GFAP expression and decreased Synaptophysin (SYN) reactivity. Conversely, ALA supplementation significantly mitigated these effects by restoring antioxidant levels, improving body weight, and preserving the histological and synaptic structure of the cerebellar cortex. Conclusion: Alpha lipoic acid (ALA) may be a potential neuroprotective drug because it reduced the oxidative stress and morphological alterations brought about by cadmium in the developing cerebellum of rats after birth. Key words: Cadmium; Oxidative stress; Alpha Lipoic Acid; Antioxidant; Cerebellum.
