Effects of moderate intensity training and lithium on spatial learning and memory in a rat model: The role of SIRT3 and PGC1-α expression levels and brain-derived neurotropic factor.

In this study we investigated the potential synergistic effects of moderate interval training (MIT) and lithium on spatial learning and memory. Forty-two male Wistar males were classified into six groups including I: Control, II: 10 mg/kg/day IP lithium (Li10), III: MIT, IV: Li10 + MIT, V: 40 mg/kg/day IP lithium (Li40), and VI: Li40 + MIT. Then, the rats underwent Morris Water Maze (MWM) test to assess their spatial memory and learning ability. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) density was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and the expression of PGC1 and SIRT3 were assessed via qRT-PCR. The results show that MIT improves both memory and spatial learning; but lithium alone, does not cause this. Additionally, those exposed to a combination of exercise and lithium also had improved spatial learning and memory. Finally, we observed a positive role of BDNF protein, and PGC1 gene on the effects of exercise and lithium.

The Effects of Chronic Marijuana Administration on 6-OHDA-Induced Learning & Memory Impairment and Hippocampal Dopamine and Cannabinoid Receptors Interaction in Male Rats.

There are general inhibitory effects of exo-cannabinoids on dopamine-mediated behaviors. Many studies suggested the interaction between cannabinoid receptors and dopamine receptors in the brain that affect cognition behaviors. In this paper, we investigate the effects of marijuana on 6-OHDA-induced cognitive impairments and the expression of dopamine and cannabinoid receptors in the hippocampus of male rats. 42 rats were divided into six groups. 6-hydroxy dopamine (6-OHDA) was administrated into the substantia nigra. Marijuana (60 mg/kg; i.p.) was administered 28 days, one week after the 6-OHDA injection. Morris water maze (MWM) and novel object recognition tests were performed. The hippocampal expression levels of cannabinoid receptors and D1 and D2 dopamine receptors evaluate by real-time PCR. The results showed marijuana improved the spatial learning and memory disorders caused by 6-OHDA in the MVM task and novel object recognition test. Additionally, the level of both D1 and D2 mRNA was decreased in 6-OHDA-treated animals and marijuana consumption only increased the hippocampal level of D1 mRNA. Moreover, the level of hippocampal CB1 mRNA in 6-OHDA- treated rats was higher than in control rats. However, the hippocampal level of CB2 mRNA was decreased in 6-OHDA- treated rats. Marijuana consumption caused a significant decrease in CB1 mRNA level and an increase in CB2 mRNA level in 6-OHDA + marijuana group. Therefore, marijuana may be helpful for learning & memory disorders, D1, and D2 dopamine receptors, and cannabinoid receptor alteration in patients with Parkinson's disease.

Pharyngeal carriage rate of Neisseria meningitidis before and after the Hajj pilgrimage, in Zahedan (southeastern Iran), 2012.

BACKGROUND/AIM: The annual Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, which attracts more than 3 million Muslim pilgrims from around the world, has played a role in the global spread of meningococcal infection. We aimed to compare pharyngeal carriage of Neisseria meningitidis in Hajj pilgrims before departure and after returning to Iran, Zahedan. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This prospective and cross-sectional study was conducted among Hajj pilgrims in Zahedan (southeast Iran) in 2012. We studied all pilgrims who agreed to participate in this study and who met the inclusion criteria. Sampling was done by swabbing the posterior pharyngeal wall through the mouth with direct plating or keeping transport time to below 5 h. Specific culture, oxidase test, and carbohydrates tests were done on the positive samples. RESULTS: Among 422 pilgrims (42.2% male, 57.8% female; with age range 21-95 years), 6 (1.4%) were positive for N. meningitidis after the Hajj pilgrimage. Nobody was positive before departure. During the Hajj 58.5% of the participants received antibiotics. CONCLUSION: According to the results of our study, the prevalence of pharyngeal carriage of N. meningitidis in pilgrims after returning to Zahedan was low (1.4%). The quadrivalent meningococcal vaccine and antibiotic therapy were effective in reducing the number of carriers among pilgrims after travel.