Ameliorative effect of aqueous avocado seed extract against chromium-induced oxidative stress and cellular damage in rabbit kidney.

The accumulation of chromium in renal tissues promotes the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to oxidative stress, genomic and cellular harm, and ultimately necrotic and apoptotic cell death induced by free radicals. Hence, the utilization of antioxidant phytochemicals becomes crucial for cellular defense against oxidative damage. This study endeavors to explore the potential protective effects of an aqueous avocado seed extract (ASE) on rabbit kidneys exposed to chromium-induced damage. Fifteen adult rabbits were distributed into three groups: Group 1 was kept as the control. The second and third groups received a daily dose of K2Cr2O7 (5 mg/kg) intraperitoneally for 2 weeks. While the third group was given an oral dose of ASE (400 mg/kg). In rabbits administered with Cr (VI), kidney homogenates showed a marked increase in Malondialdehyde (MDA) (69.3 ± 4.1 nmol/g) along with a decrease in glutathione (59 ± 5.8 nmol/mg) content and the activity superoxide dismutase (SOD) (0.5 ± 0.05 U/mg protein), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) (16.7 ± 1.1 µmol/mg protein), and catalase (CAT) (73.8 ± 3.9 U/g protein) compared to the levels in control group. Also, the gene expression data for the enzymes SOD, GPx, and CAT dropped dramatically in kidney tissue following Cr (VI) injection. Additionally, Bowman's capsule and glomerulus showed degenerative alterations in the kidney's histopathology and immunohistochemistry. ASE treatment when administered along with Cr (VI) enhanced the activity and gene expression of antioxidant enzymes and improved histopathological conditions. The findings of this study unequivocally show that avocado seed extract, which is rich in phenolic derivatives, is a potent nephroprotective agent that inhibits nephrotoxicity induced by Cr (VI) in rabbits.

Fighting sepsis-induced liver damage with biosynthesized silver nanoparticles.

Sepsis is a potentially fatal disease that arises from an infection and is characterized by an uncontrolled immune system reaction. Global healthcare systems bear a heavy financial burden from treating sepsis. This study aimed to provide information on the effective properties of silver nanoparticles derived from pomegranate peel extract (P-AgNP) against sepsis-induced hepatic injury. P-AgNPs were spherical with a diameter of ~19 nm. The animals were placed into four groups, each with seven rats. Group 1 functioned as the control group, receiving only saline for 7 days. Group 2 received only P-AgNPs at a dose of 20 mg/kg. To induce sepsis, groups 3 and 4 were given an intraperitoneal injection of 200 mg/mL cecal slurry. Sixty min later, group 4 was given 20 mg/kg of P-AgNPs daily for 7 days. The concentrations of reduced glutathione, nitric oxide, lipid peroxidation, and superoxide dismutase in liver homogenate were measured to determine the oxidative status. In addition, enzyme activities (alanine aminotransferase, aspartate amino transferase, and alkaline phosphatase) were measured. Furthermore, we investigated the histological changes, immunohistochemical expression of nuclear factor-κB, and mRNA levels of IL1ß, IL-6, TNF-α, Bax, BCl2, and Casp-3. P-AgNPs functioned as regulators in a sepsis model, successfully controlling altered gene expression. Following treatment, P-AgNPs improved tion and oxidative state, indicating a role in sepsis management. Based on our findings, we conclude that P-AgNPs have antioxidant activity and may be useful in preventing sepsis-induced liver inflammation, oxidative damage, and apoptosis. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Pomegranate peel-derived silver nanoparticles (P-AgNPs) enhanced liver function and oxidative state in rats with sepsis-induced hepatic damage. P-AgNPs reduced oxidative stress and liver inflammation via regulating inflammatory and apoptotic gene expression. P-AgNPs enhanced liver enzyme activities, histological structure, and immunohistochemistry expression of nuclear factor-κB.

Potential role of the methanolic extract for Olea europaea (stem and leaves) on sporulation of Eimeria papillata oocysts: In vitro study.

Many plants are efficient anticoccidial agents owing to their content of active chemicals. Drug-resistant Eimeria species have emerged as a result of excessive drug use. The current work aimed to investigate the oocysticidal activity (Eimeria papillata) of Olea europaea stem extract (OESE) and leaf extract (OELE) in vitro. The results of gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis for OELE and OESE showed the presence of 12 and 9 phytochemical compounds, respectively. Also, chemical examination revealed that the plant extracts are rich in phenols, flavonoids and tannins. Additionally, the best radical scavenging activity of OESE and OELE was at a concentration of 100 µg/ml, reaching 92.04 ± 0.02 and 92.4 ± 0.2%, respectively. The in vitro study revealed that concentrations of 200 mg/ml from OESE and OELE caused significant inhibition (100%) of process sporulation for E. papillata oocysts, in contrast to the other commercial products, which displayed varying degrees of suppression sporulation. Our findings showed that OESE and OELE have anticoccidial activity, which motivates further the conduction of in vivo studies in the search for a less expensive and more efficient cure.

Influence of nutrition during previtellogenesis on the follicular development in the Asian Tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus (Skuse) (Diptera: Culicidae).

Dengue fever poses a global public health threat, with 2.5 billion people at risk of infection each year. Because the Aedes albopictus is the primary vector of dengue, it is closely monitored and handled. The efficiency of Dengue eradication is strongly dependent on understanding a female mosquito's physiological age. This study addresses key entomological issues about the impact of previtellogenic nutrition on egg production mechanisms. Ovarian development included two distinct periods: previtellogenesis and vitellogenesis. Sugar intake during previtellogenesis influences the size of the blood meal. The major parameter influencing the vitellogenesis process is the presence of a hematophagous feeding event following sugar concentration. Upon subjecting female mosquitoes to sucrose, the ovarian follicles entered the third phase of previtellogenesis. Once females feed on blood following sucrose, ovarian development enters the vitellogenesis, and the oocyte cytoplasm reveals that the yolk granules are organized in one or two rows like a crown, increasing oocyte size. Females fed 15% sucrose before a blood meal, have the largest vitellogenic growth, and follicular size, which is seven times greater than those fed water only. Fecundity increased by 78.7% by adding 7% sucrose to the diet. Mitochondria within oocytes increase, most likely due to their transportation from the nurse cells, where the yolk is synthesized. This study describes in detail the histological alterations detected in the ovaries during the previtellogenesis as well as those associated with yolk formation, suggesting that yolk protein deposition in the oocyte is associated with blood meal, independent of sucrose feeding. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Adult nutrition during previtellogenesis significantly impacts various biological parameters and the physiological age of adults of Aedes albopictus. Female mosquitoes experienced significant growth in vitellogenic development, vectorial capacity, and follicular size after consuming a diet with 15% sucrose before a blood meal.

Anticoccidial and Antioxidant Activities of an Ethanolic Extract of Teucrium polium Leaves on Eimeria papillate-Infected Mice.

Eimeria spp. are responsible for the economic loss of both domestic and wild animals due to coccidiosis, the most common parasitic disease. The resistance to currently available drugs used to treat coccidiosis has been proven. Medicinal plants that contain physiologically active phytochemicals have been widely used in traditional medicine. Teucrium polium leaf extract (TPLE) has been shown to exhibit pharmacological, antioxidant, and anticoccidial properties in different experiments. Here, our investigation focused on how T. polium leaf extract affected the way that Eimeria papillate caused intestinal injury in mice. Thirty-five male Swiss albino mice were divided into seven groups, as follows: group I: untreated and uninfected (negative control); group II: uninfected, treated group with TPLE (150 mg/kg b.w); and group III: infected untreated (positive control). Groups III-VII were orally administered 103 sporulated E. papillata oocysts. A total of 60 min after infection, groups IV-VI were treated for five successive days with 50, 150, and 250 mg/kg b.w TPLE, respectively, while group VII was treated with amprolium (120 mg/kg b.w.). The mice had been euthanized on the fifth day post-infection, and the jejunum tissues were prepared for histology and oxidative stress studies. A total of 150 mg/kg of TPLE was the most effective dosage, significantly decreasing oocyst output by about 80.5%, accompanied by a significant reduction in the number of developmental parasitic phases in jejunal sections. In addition, the decrease in the number of goblet cells in the jejuna of mice raised after treatment. Also, TPLE greatly diminished the body weight loss of infected mice. Moreover, our research proved that TPLE reduced oxidative damage due to E. papillata infection via decreasing intestinal malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitric oxide (NO) levels and increasing reduced superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione (GSH) levels. These results demonstrated that TPLE had potent anticoccidial properties. TPE's efficacy as a natural antioxidant has also been demonstrated in reducing oxidative stress and enhancing antioxidant systems to mitigate biochemical and histological changes in the jejunum caused by E. papillata.

Fighting eimeriosis by using the anti-eimerial and anti-apoptotic properties of rhatany root extract.

Background: Over the last decade, extensive use of coccidiostats to treat and control Eimeria infection has developed drug resistance, prompting the search for new alternative therapies. Rhatany is proven to have various pharmacological properties. Objective: The present study aimed to in vitro and in vivo evaluate the effect of Rhatany roots extract (RRE) as an anti-eimerial and anti-apoptotic agent against murine eimeriosis induced by Eimeria papillata. Methods: Phytochemical screening by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis (GC-MS) was used to detect active compounds in RRE. In vitro anti-eimerial activity of RRE (200, 100, 50 mg/ml), amprolium, phenol, Dettol™, and formalin were studied after incubation with non-sporulated Eimeria oocysts. For the in vivo study, twenty-five male C57BL/6 mice were randomly allocated into five groups. Animals in the first group were just given distilled H2O, while those in the second group were given 200 mg/kg RRE for 5 days. The Eimeria parasite's oocysts were infected into the third, fourth, and fifth groups. For treatment, RRE (200 mg/kg) and amprolium (120 mg/kg) were orally given to the 4th and 5th groups for five days, respectively. All mice were euthanized, on day 5 post-infection, to collect the jejunal tissues under study. Investigations were undertaken into the oocyst output in feces and goblet cells in mice jejuna. Assays for glutathione peroxidase (GPx), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and myeloperoxidase (MPO) were also performed. In jejunal tissue, cysteine aspartic acid protease-3 (Caspase-3) was counted using immunohistochemistry, while BCL2-associated X protein (Bax) and B-cell lymphoma-2 (BCL-2) were assayed using ELISA. In addition, mRNA expression of the goblet cell response gene (MUC2) was detected using real-time PCR. Results: Phytochemical screening by GC-MS demonstrated the presence of 22 compounds in the RRE. The in vitro study revealed that RRE significantly inhabited the oocyst sporulation in a dose-dependent manner. By day 5 after infection with the Eimeria parasite, the number of oocysts in mice feces was significantly reduced after RRE treatment (1.308 × 106 ± 1.36 × 105 oocysts/g feces) compared to the infected group (5.387 × 106 ± 4.29 × 105 oocysts/g feces). Moreover, the Eimeria infection reduced the number of goblet cells of mice jejuna and its specific gene, MUC2. The treatment with RRE increased the number of goblet cells/villus from 3.45 ± 0.17 to 6.04 ± 0.23, associated with upregulation for MUC2 from 0.26 to 2.39-fold. Also, the Eimeria experimental infection lowered the activity of the antioxidant enzyme represented by GPx (23.99 ± 3.68 mg/g tissue), while increasing the stress parameters of hydrogen peroxide (0.07 ± 0.01 mM/g) as well as the activity of MPO (66.30 ± 3.74 U/mg). The production of apoptotic markers including Caspase-3 (68.89 ± 2.67 U/g) and Bax (159.05 ± 6.50 pg/ml) was significantly elevated while decreasing the anti-apoptotic marker of BCL2 (0.42 ± 0.07 pg/ml). Our study proved that RRE significantly reduced oxidative stress, and apoptotic markers as well as the inflammatory activity of MPO. Also, antioxidant enzyme and anti-apoptotic activity in the jejunum of E. papillata-infected mice were enhanced after RRE treatment. Conclusion: Our study highlights the potential of RRE as a natural solution for coccidiosis management by modulating apoptosis in E. papillata host cells. However, further research is needed to fully understand the underlying mechanisms and enhance our understanding of its therapeutic efficacy.

Cassia alata's dual role in modulating MUC2 expression in Eimeria papillata-infected jejunum and assessing its anti-inflammatory effects.

Coccidiosis poses significant hazards to animals, particularly in terms of compromised health, reduced productivity, and economic losses in livestock farming. The conventional treatments for coccidiosis often involve synthetic drugs, contributing to concerns about drug resistance and environmental impact. The pressing need for eco-friendly alternatives is highlighted in this study, emphasizing the importance of exploring medicinal plants like Cassia alata leaf extracts (CAE) against Eimeria papillata-induced infection in mice. The CAE exhibited significant phenolic (2.17 ± 0.03 g/100 g) and flavonoid (0.14 ± 0.01 g/100 g) content and demonstrated notable antioxidant activity. In infected mice, the CAE treatment led to a substantial reduction in oocyst output (~6 fold), ameliorating necrotic enteritis and inflammatory changes in the jejunum. Additionally, CAE treatment increased goblet cell numbers (9.3 ± 0.1 / villus) and decreased macrophage infiltration in the intestinal villi. Molecular analyses revealed CAE's positive modulation of MUC2 gene and notably reduced the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (specifically IL-1ß, IL-10, and IFN-γ) when contrasted with the infected cohort. Furthermore, CAE treatment significantly reduced nitric oxide levels (44.03 ± 2.4 µmol/mg), showcasing its anti-inflammatory properties. The findings of this study not only contribute to the understanding of CAE's therapeutic potential but also underscore the importance of seeking eco-friendly alternatives in the face of coccidiosis challenges, addressing both the well-being of animals and the sustainability of agricultural practices. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Cassia alata extract (CAE) exhibited significant phenolic and flavonoid content, displaying notable antioxidant activity. In infected mice, CAE treatment led to a substantial reduction in oocyst output, ameliorating necrotic enteritis and inflammatory changes in the jejunum. CAE treatment increased goblet cell numbers and decreased macrophage infiltration in the intestinal villi, while molecular analyses revealed its positive modulation of the MUC2 gene and notable reduction in pro-inflammatory cytokine levels. Additionally, CAE treatment significantly reduced nitric oxide levels, showcasing its anti-inflammatory properties.

Morphology, morphometry, and phylogeny of the protozoan parasite, Eimeria labbeana-like (Apicomplexa, Eimeriidae), infecting Columba livia domestica.

Introduction: Eimeria spp. are intracellular protozoan parasites of the phylum Apicomplexa causing economic losses to various wild and domestic animals. An eimerian species infecting Columba livia domestica was identified in this study. Methods: A total of 15 faecal samples were examined by floatation technique, a prevalence rate of 60% was reported. Eimerian oocysts were sporulated in 2.5% potassium dichromate solution then identified using morphological and molecular (DNA amplification of the 18S rRNA and ITS-1 genes) diagnostic techniques. Results: Sporulated oocysts were identified as Eimeria labbeana-like, after morphometry with typical bi-layered wall with spherical to subspherical oocysts morphology. A polar granule is present, but no micropyle or oocyst residuum. Sporocysts are elongated ovoidal with stieda body. Sporocyst residuum with many granules and sporozoites with refractile bodies and nucleus. Both 18S rRNA and ITS-1 sequences have been deposited in GenBank database. DNA sequences from the partial 18S rRNA generated from the oocysts were found to be related to eimerian and isosporan parasites found in domestic pigeons. For the first time, ITS-1 sequences for E. labbeana-like were provided. Conclusion: The necessity of using molecular techniques to describe pigeon intestinal coccidian parasites in conjunction with traditional morphology-based tools was emphasized in this work in order to understand the biology of such parasites.

Krameria lappacea root extract's anticoccidial properties and coordinated control of CD4 T cells for IL-10 production and antioxidant monitoring.

Introduction: Recently, the use of botanicals as an alternative to coccidiostats has been an appealing approach for controlling coccidiosis. Therefore, this study was conducted to evaluate the potential role of aqueous methanolic extract (200 mg/kg) of Krameria lappacea (roots) (KLRE) against infection induced by Eimeria papillata. Methods: A total of 25 male C57BL/6 mice were divided into five groups (I, II, III, IV, and V). On 1st day of the experiment, all groups except groups I (control) and II (non-infected-treated group with KLRE), were inoculated orally with 103 sporulated E. papillata oocysts. On the day of infection, group IV was treated with KLRE. Group V served as an infected-treated group and was treated with amprolium (coccidiostat). Results: Treatment with extract and coccidiostat was continued for five consecutive days. While not reaching the efficacy level of the reference drug (amprolium), KLRE exhibited notable anticoccidial activity as assessed by key criteria, including oocyst suppression rate, total parasitic stages, and maintenance of nutrient homeostasis. The presence of phenolic and flavonoid compounds in KLRE is thought to be responsible for its positive effects. The Eimeria infection increased the oxidative damage in the jejunum. KLRE treatment significantly increased the activity of catalase and superoxide dismutase. On the contrary, KLRE decreased the level of malondialdehyde and nitric oxide. Moreover, KLRE treatment decreased macrophage infiltration in the mice jejunal tissue, as well as the extent of CD4 T cells and NFkB. E. papillata caused a state of systemic inflammatory response as revealed by the upregulation of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOs)-mRNA. Upon treatment with KLRE, the activity of iNOs was reduced from 3.63 to 1.46 fold. Moreover, KLRE was able to downregulate the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines interferon-γ, nuclear factor kappa B, and interleukin-10 -mRNA by 1.63, 1.64, and 1.38 fold, respectively. Moreover, KLRE showed a significant reduction in the expression of IL-10 protein level from 104.27 ± 8.41 pg/ml to 62.18 ± 3.63 pg/ml. Conclusion: Collectively, K. lappacea is a promising herbal medicine that could ameliorate the oxidative stress and inflammation of jejunum, induced by E. papillata infection in mice.

Influence of adult body size on blood feeding behavior and eggs retention in Aedes albopictus (Diptera: Culicidae).

Mosquito-borne viruses continue to affect billions of people globally, posing a severe health risk and an economic burden. Aedes albopictus (Skuse), a highly invasive mosquito species, has repeatedly invaded and increased its presence, serving as a key vector of dengue virus, yellow fever virus (YFV), Zika virus (ZIKV), and Chikungunya virus (CHIKV), causing frequent outbreaks of related viral diseases. This study investigated the impact of larval diet quantity on larval duration and adult body size. The effect of adult mosquito body size on various aspects of Ae. albopictus was also examined, including blood-feeding behavior, follicular development, reproductive capacity, egg retention capacity, preoviposition period, and fecundity. These diverse characteristics all have an effect on arboviruses transmission. The changes in body size (small, medium, and large) are obtained by providing different quantities of larval diet (low, average, and high). The results indicate that the quantity of larval diet directly impacts the adult body size while inversely affecting the larval duration. Furthermore, a positive correlation exists between adult body size and wing length, implying that wing length could be a reliable indicator of adult body size and rearing conditions during the developmental stages. Large females exhibited higher numbers of follicles and greater fecundity. Moreover, a significant correlation was observed between follicle number before the first blood meal and total egg number. In contrast, increasing wing length decreased the number of blood meals, egg retention, and the preoviposition period. The tendency of small females to perform multiple feedings was greater than that of large females. Small females exhibited a higher propensity for multiple feeding activities when compared to their larger counterparts. Most medium-sized females (92.8%) deposited eggs in their ovaries, however, 7.2% retained a few. In contrast, most large females (87.4%) had complete ovary egg-laying, whereas a minority (12.6%) retained some of their eggs. About 35.2% of small females showed ovarian egg retention, while 64.8% successfully laid all their eggs. After the first blood meal, the oviposition rate was 92% for large females, 88% for medium females, and 76% for small females. About 69.86% of the follicles in large females underwent vitellogenesis. This finding suggests that small females with low energy reserves exhibited incomplete oviposition and multiple blood feedings to increase their reproductive capacity. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Add more information about arbovirus epidemics and their consequences. Aedes albopictus is a global invasive species that transmit dengue virus, CHIKV, YFV, and ZIKV. A negative correlation was observed between body size, egg retention, and multiple blood feedings in Aedes albopictus. Size of the female's body was positively correlated with fecundity, while it was negatively correlated with the preoviposition period. Size-dependent multiple blood feeding affects vector-host contact frequency.

Unraveling the immune response of the spleen in sepsis using green-synthesized silver nanoparticles from pomegranate peel extracts.

Sepsis is a serious disease characterized by an inappropriate host response to infection, resulting in widespread inflammation and systemic organ failure. The aim of this research is to investigate the possibility of pomegranate peel-derived silver nanoparticles (PGNP) as a potential alternative therapy for sepsis. Characterization using transmission electron microscopy revealed 10-30 nm spherical nanoparticles. In a rat model of sepsis, PGNP treatment improved spleen health, histology, and immune response as compared with septic rats. In rats treated with PGNP during sepsis, significant alterations in oxidative stress markers (p < .01) were observed. These included elevated levels of glutathione (0.63 ± 0.08 mmol/mg protein), reduced concentrations of nitric oxide (8.7 ± 0.8 µ mol/mg protein) and malondialdehyde (2.2 ± 0.3 nmol/mg protein), as well as increased activity of superoxide dismutase (159 ± 33 U/mg protein). Following PGNP administration, gene expression analysis revealed a decrease in spleen IL-1ß, IL-6, and TNF-α, highlighting its anti-inflammatory potential. Furthermore, PGNP effectively controlled apoptosis-related genes (Bax, Bcl-2, and Casp3), indicating its role in cellular survival pathways. This study sheds light on the immunological regulation of the spleen during sepsis using PGNP, demonstrating its potential as a new effective treatment approach. The study emphasizes the necessity of continuing to investigate and develop alternative medicines, particularly in light of antibiotic resistance and the global impact of sepsis. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: The study explored the potential medicinal benefits of pomegranate peel-derived silver nanoparticles (PGNP) in the treatment of sepsis. PGNP suppressed pro-inflammatory cytokines and enhanced the immune response. The study recommends PGNP as a viable substitute treatment.

Anticoccidial and jejunum-protective effects of Krameria lappacea roots extract on experimental Eimeria papillata infection.

Coccidiosis is a protozoan parasitic disease caused by Eimeria species and affects wild and domestic animals. Coccidiostats are currently available to control this disease, although drug resistance has been confirmed for all of them. As a result, there is an urgent need to identify eco-friendly agents to control and treat this disease. This study aimed to investigate the ameliorative role of the Krameria lappacea roots extract (KLRE) on the outcome of coccidiosis induced by Eimeria papillata. Male C57BL/6 mice were divided into seven groups (5 mice/group), as follows: Group 1: noninfected-nontreated (control group), Group 2: noninfected-treated group with KLRE (200 mg/kg), Group 3: infected-nontreated group, Group 4: infected-treated group with KLRE (50 mg/kg), Group 5: infected-treated group with KLRE (100 mg/kg), Group 6: infected-treated group with KLRE (200 mg/kg), and Group 7: infected-treated group with amprolium (120 mg/kg). Groups (3-7) were inoculated orally with 1 × 103 sporulated E. papillata oocysts. One hour after infection, groups (4-6) were daily treated for 5 days with KLRE and amprolium. On day 5 postinfection, oocyst output was determined, and mice were euthanized for the collection of jejuna then preparation of histological sections and jejunal homogenate was used for the determination of biochemical and oxidative damage markers. The coccidial infection induced weight loss of mice by 3.971%, which improved after KLRE to -1.512%. After KLRE treatment, the rate of feed intake was improved to be 52.21 ± 2.30 than those in infected group (40.47 ± 2.25). Oocyst output was significantly reduced in mice treated with KLRE (1.308 × 106 oocysts/g.feces) compared with those in the infected group (5.387 × 106 oocysts/g.feces). E. papillata infection induced marked histological alterations within jejunum tissue. After treatment, KLRE was able to impair the development of parasite stages (meronts, gamonts, and developing oocysts) in the jejunum through a significant reduction of number and size in comparison with the infected group. Infection with E. papillata induced a disturbance in the nutrient absorption in the jejunal mice tissue, which improved after the treatment with KLRE and amprolium. Also, KLRE counteracted significantly the E. papillata-induced loss of reduced glutathione and total antioxidant capacity. Our findings indicate that KLRE could be used as an alternative to the available coccidiostats currently available. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Krameria lappacea exhibit significant anticoccidial and antioxidant activities induced by E. papillata infection. Krameria lappacea exhibit significant improvement in the pathological alterations of the jejunal tissue induced by E. papillata infection.

Identification of fourth-instar larvae of Aedes albopictus (Skuse) (Diptera: Culicidae) employing scanning electron microscopic tool.

Aedes albopictus is a vector of numerous viruses in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, including encephalitis and dengue fever. Although the identification keys depend exclusively on the characteristics of the fourth larval instar, the studies were carried out using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) on the morphology of Ae. albopictus are still insufficient, and more research is required. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to present a comprehensive description of Ae. albopictus mosquitoes based on the morphological features of their fourth-instar larvae to distinguish them from other mosquito species. Antennae, feeding mouth brushes, mandibles, maxillae, labia, comb scales, anal papillae, siphon, respiratory spiracles, and pecten teeth were among the morphological features specifically described using SEM. The sensilla trichoidea and the sensilla basiconica are the sensory spicules found on the antennal integument. The labrum is a tessellated membrane with two movable brushes on the sides and one middle brush. The mandibles have four sellar setae on the anterolateral side, and the maxillae, which have a thumb-like structure and a palp located laterally and about four-fifths of the way from the maxillary brush base to the maxillary notch, are the articulating appendages. On the apex of the palp, there are five sensilla. The eighth abdominal segment is a tiny pentagonal structure with 12 comb scales laterally and a respiratory siphon dorsally. The siphon has two rows of pectin teeth, with 12 teeth per row. Four pairs of siphonal tufts and five perispiracular lobes surround the respiratory spiracles. The anal segment has four anal papillae, a ventral brush, a dorsal brush, and an incomplete saddle. The findings demonstrate that the fourth-instar larvae of Ae. albopictus have distinctive morphological features, which are crucial for understanding their key characteristics and identifying them, preventing inaccurate identification, and facilitating the control of diseases transmitted by the mosquito vector. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: A detailed description of various taxonomical interest structures for the fourth-instar larvae of Aedes albopictus is included in this study. Scanning electron microscopy is considered a helpful technique for identifying Ae. albopictus larvae in their fourth instar.

Identification of sheep eimerian parasites, Eimeria crandallis and Eimeria faurei, employing microscopic and molecular tools.

Coccidiosis, caused by apicomplexan Eimeria species, is a protozoan disease that affects various species of wild and domestic animals. However, data available on Eimeria diversity in ruminants in Saudi Arabia is meagre. Therefore, this study was designed to investigate some eimerian parasites infecting sheep (Sawakni and Harrie breeds) using microscopy and molecular methods for the first time in Saudi Arabia. Twenty-four fecal samples were collected from sheep farms. Based on the floatation technique, eimerian oocysts were observed in 8 of the 24 (33.33%) fecal samples. The coccidian-positive samples were subjected to fecal culture in a shallow layer of 2.5% potassium dichromate (K2 Cr2 O7 ). Detected eimerian oocysts were described micromorphometrically as the basis for traditional oocyst identification. Morphologically, the sporulated oocysts were similar to those of sheep eimerian parasies; Eimeria faurei and Eimeria crandallis. PCR products from the two eimerian species detected from Sawakni and Harrie breeds were sequenced and were found to be distinct from each other with mutations at five positions. One of them clustered with E. crandallis with 99.8%-100% identity with sequences available in GenBank. E. crandallis was obtained from two Sawakni sheep and two Harrie sheep. The other sequences grouped with E. faurei with 99.8% identity with the only sequences available in GenBank. E. crandallis was detected from both Sawakni and Harrie breeds whereas E. faurei was detected only from Sawakni sheep. The findings of this study have implications for the importance of morphometric identification with advanced molecular tools to confirm the identities of sheep Eimeria species and to address the taxonomic study of this eimeriid parasite at the species level.

Identification of Eimeria acervulina (Apicomplexa: Eimeriidae) infecting the broiler chicken Gallus gallus domesticus through morphology and molecular analyses.

Coccidiosis is an intestinal protozoan disease that affects the poultry industry worldwide. The severity of this disease varies depending on the identity of the infectious agents. Therefore, this study was carried out to identify the Eimeria species that affect broiler chickens, Gallus gallus domesticus, through morphological and molecular phylogenetic analyses. Twenty-five faecal samples were collected from the broiler chickens in a commercial poultry farm in Riyadh (Saudi Arabia). Using the floatation technique, faeces were examined microscopically for the Eimeria occurrence. Identification of Eimeria species was performed based on morphological criteria and molecular tools (DNA amplification for the partial small subunit ribosomal RNA (18S rRNA), internal transcribed spacer (ITS)-1, and mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) genes. In this study, 32% (8 out of 25) of collected samples were found to be positive for coccidiosis. After sporulation in potassium dichromate (K2Cr2O7), the sporulated oocysts were observed as ovoid and measured 18.37-23.19 µm (19.87) long and 15.07-18.67 µm (16.46) wide, with the anterior location of a polar granule and absence of micropyle. These Eimeria oocysts were assumed to size and shape characteristics of Eimeria acervulina. Molecular analysis was conducted on the sequences of the polymerase chain reaction products from the three genes studied (18S rRNA, ITS-1, and COI). At the three genes, results showed that the resultant sequences clustered with E. acervulina from different regions confirming morphological description. This study highlighted the importance of molecular techniques to detect avian Eimeria species more than the traditional morphology-based tool to optimise the appropriate anticoccidial strategies for long-term control in the studied area.

Nephroprotective Efficacy of Echinops spinosus against a Glycerol-Induced Acute Kidney Injury Model.

Nephroprotection or renal rescue is to revive and restore kidney function after damage, with no need for further dialysis. During acute kidney injury (AKI), sudden and recent reductions in kidney functions occur. Causes are multiple, and prompt intervention can be critical to diminish or prevent morbidity. Echinops spinosus (ES) is a curative plant with proven pharmacological and biological effects including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial competencies. The principal goal of this research is to scrutinize the nephroprotective features of E. spinosa extract (ESE) against glycerol-induced AKI. Male Wistar albino rats were equally divided into five separated groups: negative control rats (vehicle-injected), ESE control rats (ESE-treated rats), positive control rats, glycerol-induced AKI-model rats (single IM injection of 50% glycerol), and 2 groups of diseased rats but pretreated with different concentrations of ESE for 7 days (ESE150 + AKI rats and ESE250 + AKI rats). Kidney tissues were collected and used for histopathology analysis. The relative kidney weight percentage was assessed. ESE effects were investigated via scanning several biomarkers, such as serum urea and creatinine, as kidney function biomarkers. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and creatine kinase (CK) activities were examined as rhabdomyolysis (RM) indicators. Kidney injury molecule-1 (Kim-1) and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) were also examined to investigate kidney injury. Enzymatic and nonenzymatic oxidative stress markers were analyzed, namely, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione reductase (GR), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), and reduced glutathione GSH. Proinflammatory cytokine [tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-1 ß (IL-1ß)] and the renal proapoptotic protein (Bax) and antiapoptotic protein (Bcl-2) levels were evaluated. Statistical analysis for the resulting data revealed that ESE pretreatment turned AKI-induced biological antioxidant levels to an extent comparable to normal results. Furthermore, ESE decreased kidney function markers and RM-related biomarkers (LDH, CK, Kim-1, and NGAL) compared to those in untreated AKI-model rats. ESE treatment dropped the apoptotic renal Bax levels, enhanced antiapoptotic Bcl-2 manufacture, and disallowed the release of IL-1ß and TNF-α. This study revealed the protective effect of ESE as therapeutic medicine against AKI-encouraged oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis. It can be effectively used as adjuvant therapy, helping in renal rescue, and for kidney healing in cases with risk factors of AKI.

Persea americana extract protects intestinal tissue from Eimeria papillata-induced murine Infection.

Coccidiosis is the most prevalent disease-causing widespread economic loss among farm and domestic animals. Currently, several drugs are available for the control of this disease but resistance has been confirmed for all of them. There is an urgent need, therefore, for the identification of new sources as alternative treatments to control coccidiosis. The present work aimed to study the effect of the Persea americana extract (PAE) as an anti-coccidial, anti-oxidant, and anti-apoptotic modulator during murine intestinal Eimeria papillata infection. A total of 25 male mice were divided into five groups, as follows: Group1: Non-infected-non-treated (negative control), Group2: Non-infected-treated group with PAE (500 mg/kg b.w). Group3: Infected-non-treated (positive control), Group4: Infected-treated group with PAE (500 mg/kg b.w.), and Group5: Infected-treated group with Amprolium (120 mg/kg b.w.). Groups (3-5) were orally inoculated with 1 × 103 sporulated E. papillata oocysts. After 60 min of infection, groups (4 and 5) were treated for 5 consecutive days with the recommended doses of PAE and amprolium. The fact that PAE has an anti-coccidial efficacy against intestinal E. papillata infection in mice has been clarified by the reduction of fecal oocyst output on the 5th day post-infection by about 85.41%. Moreover, there is a significant reduction in the size of each parasite stage in the jejunal tissues of the infected-treated group with PAE. PAE counteracted the E. papillata-induced loss of glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and total antioxidant capacity (TCA). E. papillata infection also induced an increase in the apoptotic cells expressed by caspase-3 which modulated after PAE treatment. Moreover, the mRNA expression of the goblet cell response gene, mucin (MUC2), was upregulated from 0.50 to 1.20-fold after treatment with PAE. Based on our results, PAE is a promising medicinal plant with anti-coccidial, anti-oxidant, and anti-apoptotic activities and could be used as a food additive.

Morphological, molecular, and histopathological studies on Hadjelia truncata from Columba livia domestica and its role as an environmental biological indicator.

Pigeons are a cosmopolitan group of birds with abundant and large populations associated with human activities. This study focused on determining parasitic infections within domestic pigeons (Columba livia domestica). Forty-eight pigeons were examined for infections, of which 29.16% were infected with a nematode parasite, identified as Hadjelia truncata (Habronematidae), under the koilin layer of their gizzards. The population of nematodes in infected gizzards did not exceed 20 adult worms. DNA from the gizzard worms was extracted and subjected to PCR using primers that amplify the partial 18S rDNA and cytochrome C oxidase subunit I (COX I) regions. Identification of this parasite based on microscopic study revealed the presence of trilobed lips with cephalic papillae and amphidial pores, as well as other characteristic features. In males, spicules were unequal with the presence of six pedunculated pairs of caudal papillae (4 pre- and 2 post-anal) and a tail surrounded with caudal ala. In females, the vulva was a rounded aperture located in front of the posterior end of the esophagus and uteri, which was filled with numerous embryonated eggs. DNA Sequences from partial 18S rDNA were homologous to sequences obtained from H. truncata in GenBank with a high percentage of identity. DNA sequences from mitochondrial gene COX I, however, were unique, and they were the first sequenced for H. truncata, since no sequences for this taxon were previously available in GenBank. Histopathological examination revealed enlargement of infected gizzards in comparison to non-infected ones, with the presence of necrosis and interstitial infiltration in the koilin layer. Concentrations of heavy metals (Fe, Cu, Zn, Cd, Cr, and Co) were measured using inductivity-coupled plasma in tissues (liver, muscles, and gizzards) from infected and non-infected pigeons as well as their parasites. Results showed different affinities of metals to tissues. Recovered parasites can minimize element concentration from their pigeon tissues. In Saudi Arabia, this study was considered the first report identifying pigeon nematodes and evaluating of the effects of their pathogenicity on the animals' welfare, as well as their application as a useful tool for monitoring environmental pollution.

Molecular Characterization of Fasciola hepatica in Sheep Based on DNA Sequences of Ribosomal ITS-1.

Introduction: World Health Organization (WHO) considers Fascioliasis as a neglected tropical disease that requires global efforts for disease control. Data from the genetic characterization of Fasciola population shed light on the spread of infections among animals which could help in the development of effective parasite control. The aim of the present work was to genetically characterize Fasciola adult worms isolated from sheep in Saudi Arabia by sequence analysis of ITS-1 region. Methods: A total of 12,653 slaughtered sheep in Jeddah city, Saudi Arabia were examined for the presence of Fasciola spp. adult worms. The ITS-1 region of all parasites was amplified and sequenced. Results: Overall, 12 variants DNA sequences were obtained. The variance of isolates ranged from 0.00771 to 0.34405. BLAST search showed that all obtained sequences were Fasciola hepatica and had >99.3% similarity with F. hepatica isolates from Spain and USA (from different hosts other than sheep). Phylogenetic analysis showed that Fasciola isolates were closely related to isolates from different countries. Discussion: The current study showed that F. hepatica was the only spp. isolated from sheep in Jeddah. Further studies from different localities in Saudi Arabia are needed to help in the development of disease control.

In vitro studies for antiparasitic activities of Punica granatum extract.

Because of the drug resistance, medicinal plants are used more frequently than coccidiostats to treat and control coccidiosis. Punica granatum is a powerful antioxidant with a variety of medicinal uses. This study used an in vitro experiment to investigate how different P. granatum from Yemen (Y) and Egypt (E) sources affected oocyst sporulation and served as an anthelminthic effector. In contrast to PGE and mebendazole, PGY (200 mg/mL) has the shortest time to paralyze and death the earthworm Eisenia fetida in this investigation. In addition, the treated worm groups' cuticle thickness and shrinkage in comparison to the control group were assessed and contrasted. Eimeria papillata is used as a model protozoan parasite in anticoccidial assays. This study shows that P. granatum affects oocysts sporulation in a dose-dependent manner, with maximal percentages of 100% (PGY) and 48.60% (PGE) at 96 h for P. granatum concentrations of 200 mg/mL. Inhibition (%) was compared to various detergents, as well as positive and negative controls. According to our research, the P. granatum extract had powerful anthelmintic and anticoccidial properties, with the potency changing according to the environmental conditions of each fruit source. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Habitat of the plant is useful for production and accumulation of some secondary metabolites in plants which be effective for the therapeutic uses. Different parameters in the environmental ecosystem affecting variation in chemical compositions and biological activity of P. granatum.