Mechanistic insights into carvedilol's potential protection against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity.

Doxorubicin (DOX) is an anthracycline chemotherapy drug widely employed in the treatment of various cancers, known for its potent antineoplastic properties but often associated with dose-dependent cardiotoxicity, limiting its clinical use. This review explores the complex molecular details that determine the heart-protective effectiveness of carvedilol in relation to cardiotoxicity caused by DOX. The harmful effects of DOX on heart cells could include oxidative stress, DNA damage, iron imbalance, disruption of autophagy, calcium imbalance, apoptosis, dysregulation of topoisomerase 2-beta, arrhythmogenicity, and inflammatory responses. This review carefully reveals how carvedilol serves as a strong protective mechanism, strategically reducing each aspect of cardiac damage caused by DOX. Carvedilol's antioxidant capabilities involve neutralizing free radicals and adjusting crucial antioxidant enzymes. It skillfully manages iron balance, controls autophagy, and restores the calcium balance essential for cellular stability. Moreover, the anti-apoptotic effects of carvedilol are outlined through the adjustment of Bcl-2 family proteins and activation of the Akt signaling pathway. The medication also controls topoisomerase 2-beta and reduces the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, together offering a thorough defense against cardiotoxicity induced by DOX. These findings not only provide detailed understanding into the molecular mechanisms that coordinate heart protection by carvedilol but also offer considerable potential for the creation of targeted treatment strategies intended to relieve cardiotoxicity caused by chemotherapy.

Biosynthesizing Cassia fistula Extract-Mediated Silver Nanoparticles for MCF-7 Cell Lines Anti-Cancer Assay.

The unique consequence of green synthesis is that the mediator plant is able to release chemicals that are efficacious as reducing as well as stabilizing agents. In this work, the fruit pulp and leaf essences of Cassia fistula have been used to manufacture silver nanoparticles through the green synthesis technique. The sculpturing of nanoparticles was accomplished by utilizing the reduction phenomenon that ensued due to the reaction between plant essences and the precursor solution. These biosynthesized silver nanoparticles were examined, where we used scanning electron microscopy, UV-vis spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction techniques as means to analyze the structure, optical properties, and crystalline behavior, respectively. The absorption spectra for fruit and leaf extracts obtained from the UV-vis analyses peaked at 401 and 397 nm, and these peaks imply the appearance of optical energy gaps of 2.12 and 2.58 eV, accompanying spherical shapes of particles with diameters in the ranges of 12-20 and 50-80 nm, respectively. These silver nanoparticles together with the adopted green technique have a vast array of applications, specifically in the biomedical realm. In particular, they are being used to treat several diseases and are manifested as strong anti-tumor agents to medicate MCF-7 breast cancer cell lines in order to minimize the cell growth rate depending on their concentrations.

Therapeutic properties and molecular docking study of some phenolic compounds as anti-human lung cancer potential: A biochemical approach.

Chloroxine (5,7-dichloro-8-hydroxyquinoline) is a molecule utilized in some shampoos for the therapy of seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp and dandruff. In this study, we investigated the inhibition effects of 5,7-dichloro-8-hydroxyquinoline and methyl 3,4,5-trihydroxybenzoate compounds on the 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme-A (HMG-CoA Reductase) and urease enzymes. We have obtained results for the HMG-CoA Reductase and urease enzymes at the micromolar level. In our study, inhibition result of 5,7-dichloro-8-hydroxyquinoline and Methyl 3,4,5-trihydroxybenzoate on HMG-CoA reductase showed lower values 2.28 ± 0.78 and 33.25 ± 5.04 µg/ml, respectively. Additionally, inhibition result of 5,7-dichloro-8-hydroxyquinoline and methyl 3,4,5-trihydroxybenzoate on urease showed lower values 6.18 ± 1.38 and 8.51 ± 1.35 µg/ml, respectively. Molecular docking calculations were made for their biological activities were compared. In the present work, the structures of the related compounds (1 and 2) were drawn using Gaussian 09 software and done geometry optimization at DFT/B3LYP/6-31G* basis set with aforementioned program. Cytotoxicity potential of these compounds against human lung cancer demonstrated that these compounds had good cytotoxic effects. Both compounds significantly decreased lung cell viability from low doses. In addition, 100 µM dose of all compounds caused significant reductions in lung cell viability. In general, we can say that of the two tested compounds, 5,7-dichloro-8-hydroxyquinoline and methyl 3,4,5-trihydroxybenzoate have cytotoxic effects in all cell types, and this effect is particularly strong in lung cells. Activities were performed at concentrations of 10, 20, 50, 70, and 100 µl and we achieved good results. Lung cell viability (%) value was better at 100 µl concentration and IC50 of them were 54.28 and 48.05 µM.

Synthesis and Characterization of Polyvinyl Chloride Matrix Composites with Modified Scrap Iron for Advanced Electronic, Photonic, and Optical Systems.

In this study, Fe2O3 powder was synthesized using the co-precipitation method from scrap iron, which was then treated with varying concentrations of copper. Afterwards, the modified Fe2O3 was reinforced in the PVC matrix by using the solution-casting method to synthesize PVC composite films, which were subjected to a UV-visible spectrophotometer, a Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometer, an X-ray diffractometer, and a thermal gravimetric analyzer to evaluate the optical, chemical, structural, and thermal properties. FTIR analysis reveals the formation of the composite through vibrational bands pertaining to both components present, whereas no significant changes in the XRD patterns of PVC were observed after the doping of modified iron oxide, which reveals the compatibility of fillers with the PVC matrix. The optical properties of the copper-doped iron oxide-PVC composites, including absorbance, refractive index, urbach energy, and optical as well as electrical conductivity are measured, and show an increase in optical activity when compared to the pure PVC compound. Moreover, the increased thermal stability of the synthesized composite was also observed and compared with conventional compounds, which, in accordance with all the other mentioned properties, makes the copper-dopped iron oxide-PVC composite an effective material for electronic, photonic, and optical device applications.

Potency of Moringa oleifera leaf extract and silver nanoparticles against immune, microbial and HT-29 colon cancer cells growth modulation.

Moringa oleifera plant grows in many countries worldwide and being utilized as a customary medication. The current study aimed to investigate the biological effect of Moringa oleifera leaf extract (MOE) alone or in combination with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) on colon cancer, microbial cell growth. MOE was utilized in the green synthesis of AgNPs. The characterization of AgNPs was done by UV-Vis-spectrophotometry, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). MOE was tested for their sugars, active biomolecules, ROS, protein contents. Results revealed that created AgNPs are about 61 nm in diameter. There were no detectable sugar and protein in MOE, but it contains ROS and active biomolecules. MOE and MOE+AgNPs exerted mild antibacterial action and increased the number of apoptotic cells and p53 protein expression of HT-29 colon cancer cells. MOE and MOE+AgNPs could arrest HT-29 cells at G2/M phase and stimulate splenic cell growth. Both extract preparations showed antioxidant activities. Because MOE and MOE+AgNP stimulated immune cells and activated apoptosis in cancer cells, these preparations can be utilized as anticancer agents.

Larval cestodes infecting commercial fish of Alexandria coast along the Mediterranean Sea: morphology and phylogeny.

Members of the order Trypanorhyncha are cestode parasites that are frequently found infecting the muscles of several marine fish species, affecting fish health and resulting in consumers' rejection. Seventy-five specimens of marine fish were freshly caught from boat landing sites at the Alexandria coast along the Mediterranean Sea in Egypt, including two Carangids, the greater amberjack Seriola dumerili and the gulley jack Pseudocarans dentex; two Serranids, the Haifa grouper Epinephelus haifensis and the mottled grouper Mycteroperca rubra. Forty-five fish were infected; the infection was recorded as blastocysts embedded in fish flesh. Blastocysts were isolated and ruptured; the generated plerocerci were described morphologically, where, four different species were recovered; Callitetrarhynchus gracilis, Callitetrarhynchus speciosus, Protogrillotia zerbiae, and Grillotia brayi. The taxonomic position of these parasites was justified by multiple-sequence alignment and a phylogenetic tree was constructed following maximum likelihood analysis of the 18s rRNA sequences of the recovered worms. The accession numbers MN625168, MN625169, MN611431and MN611432 were respectively assigned to the recovered parasites. The results obtained from the molecular analyses confirmed the morphological records of the recovered parasites. Since metacestodes are found in the musculature of infected fish specimens, it is necessary to remove these areas in the commercialization of fish.

Morphology and molecular taxonomy of the tongue worm, genus Raillietiella (Pentastomida) from the " lungs of berber skinks Eumeces schneideri (Scincidae): First report / Morfología y taxonomía molecular de un pentastómido del género Raillietiella obtenido del pulmón del eslizón bereber Eumeces schneideri: Primer informe

Abstract In the present study, pentastomids belonging to the order Cephalobaenida were isolated from the lungs of Berber skinks Eumeces schneideri (Famiy: Scincidae), which were morphologically described by light and scanning electron microscopy and taxonomically justi- fied by 18s rDNA molecular analyses of the parasites. Seventeen host specimens were collected from well-vegetated wadis at high altitudes, Jizan, Saudi Arabia as new type locality; twelve specimens (70.59%) were infected. All of the recovered parasites were adults, possessed small broadly triangular cephalothorax flattened on the ventral surface and merged smoothly with a uniformly thick and squat abdomen and terminated in a pair of divergent lobes. The results obtained indicated that the parasites belong to the sharp-tipped posterior-hook Raillietiella spp. distinguished from other raillietiedids of the same group some important characteristic fea- tures including annulus number, shape and dimensions of the buccal cadre, copulatory spicules, and anterior and posterior hooks. The anterior hook of the female specimens (n = 5) had a blade length (AB) of 135±5 (110-146) ^m and shank length (BC) 158±5 (150-169) ^m while the posterior hook was much larger with AB measuring 221 ±5 (200-236) m and BC 286 ±6 (280-289) -o.m. For the male specimens (n = 5), the anterior hook had an AB of 73 ±3 (72-75) -j.m and a BC 102±5 (100-103) ^m. The posterior hook was much larger with AB 190.6±5 (190-191).

Resumen En el presente estudio se aisló un pentastómido perteneciente al orden Cephalobaenida del pulmón de un eslizón bereber (Eumeces schneideri, Familia: Scincidae). Se efectuó su descripción morfológica basada en observación por microscopía óptica y de bar rido y se justificó su ubicación taxonómica mediante análisis molecular del gen 18S del ADNr. Se recolectaron 17 especímenes del citado huésped en valles ubicados a elevadas altitudes, en la región de Jizan (Arabia Saudí); 12 de ellos (70,59%) estaban infectados. Todos los parásitos recuperados eran adultos y poseían un pequeño cefalotórax triangular, aplanado en la super ficie ventral, que se fusionaba con un abdomen abultado y terminado en un par de lóbulos divergentes. Los resultados indicaron que este parásito pertenece a Raillietiella spp., que agrupa especies con gancho posterior puntiagudo; estas se distinguen de otros miembros de la Familia Raillietiella por algunos rasgos característicos, como el número de anillos y la forma y dimensiones del cuadro bucal, las espículas copulatorias y los ganchos anterior y posterior. La caracterización morfológica demostró que el parásito recuperado era muy similar a R. aegypti, previamente aislada del mismo huésped. El alineamiento de secuencias mediante el método de probabilidad máxima basado en el análisis del gen 18s del ADNr detectó identidades del 88-95% con los géneros de pentastómidos disponibles en GenBank. Dentro del árbol filogenético se pudo incluir este parásito dentro del clado monofilético pentastómido con máxima identidad con las especies de Raillietiella. Las secuencias obtenidas fueron depositadas en GenBank, con número de acceso MK970649.1. El presente análisis molecular confirma por primera vez la posición taxonómica de Raillietiella aegypti, anteriormente aislado del mismo huésped.

Assessment of Hepatotoxicity Induced by Aluminum Oxide Nanoparticles in Oreochromis niloticus Using Integrated Biomarkers: Exposure and Recovery.

The hepatotoxic impacts of 2, 4, and 8 mg/L of Al2O3 nanoparticles (31.4 ± 4.8 nm) were evaluated in Oreochromis niloticus after 7 days of exposure and 15 days of recovery periods. The biochemical analysis of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase in plasma showed significant increases in both 4 and 8 mg/L Al2O3 NPs exposed groups. The antioxidant biomarkers showed concentration-dependent elevations in catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase activities, and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances levels. Glutathione reduced contents showed significant reductions in both 4 and 8 mg/L Al2O3 nanoparticles exposed groups. Several hepatic histopathological alterations were recorded ranging from adaptive responses (e.g. melanomacrophages aggregation) to permanent damage (e.g. necrosis). The recovery period using toxicant-free water led to an obvious reduction in the Al content in liver, liver and antioxidant enzymes in addition to regressive histopathological alterations based on the frequency of alterations occurrence and the extent of affected areas.

The oil of garlic, Allium sativum L. (Amaryllidaceae), as a potential protectant against Anisakis spp. Type II (L3) (Nematoda) infection in Wistar rats.

The consumption of inadequately thermally treated fish is a public health risk due to the possible propagation of Anisakis larvae. The present study demonstrated the physiological and histopathological changes that accompanied an oral inoculation of crude extracts from fresh and thermally treated Anisakis Type II (L3) in rats. Worms were isolated from a marine fish and examined and identified using light and scanning electron microscopy. The study was performed in 6 rat groups: control (I), garlic oil (GO) inoculated (II), fresh L3 inoculated (III), thermally treated L3 inoculated (IV), fresh L3 + GO inoculated (V), and a thermally treated L3 + GO inoculated (VI) groups. Rats inoculated with fresh and thermally treated L3 showed abnormal liver and kidney functions associated with the destruction of normal architecture. GO produced a protective effect in rat groups inoculated with L3 extracts + GO via the amelioration of liver and kidney functions, which was confirmed by the marked normal structure on histology. Cooking of L3-infected fish induced severe alterations compared to uncooked fish. The administration of garlic before and after fish eating is recommended to avoid the dangerous effect of anisakids, even if they are cooked.

Silver/chitosan nanocomposites induce physiological and histological changes in freshwater bivalve.

BACKGROUND: Bivalves can accumulate and concentrate most pollutants, even if they are present in somewhat low concentrations. The present study aimed to use freshwater bivalveas for the first time as vital indicator for silver/chitosan nanocomposites (Ag-CS NCs) in the freshwater environment. METHODS: Following the preparation and characterization of Ag-CS NCs by using UV-vis spectrophotometer, X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and acute toxicity study, the animals exposed to three different dose of nano chitosan (CS), AgNPs, and Ag-CS NCs (12.5, 25 and 50 mg/L) for consecutive 6 days. RESULTS: Ag-CS particles were in size range of 8-19 nm. The nominal concentrations for Ag-CS NCs were 12.5, 25 and 50 mg Ag L-1 were corresponding to measured concentration of AgNPs 0.37, 0.81, and 1.65 mg Ag L-1, respectively. All concentrations of Ag-CS NCs caused a significant increase in MDA and NO, while GSH and CAT levels decreased significantly in all organs. Histological investigation of the gills, labial palp and foot tissues showed alternation after exposure to Ag-CS NCs, especially at dose 50 mg/L. CONCLUSION: The present study showed that exposure to Ag-CS NCs caused oxidative stress responses in Coelatura aegyptiaca and histological changes in the organs. These physiological and histological changes observed after exposure to Ag-CS NCs were most likely the result of the action of AgNPs themselves while the effect of chitosan on these changes was negligible. We concluded that Coelatura aegyptiaca was a sensitive bio-indicator for monitoring of the past and the present water pollution by nanoparticles.

The oil of garlic, Allium sativum L. (Amaryllidaceae), as a potential protectant against Anisakis spp. Type II (L3) (Nematoda) infection in Wistar rats / O óleo de alho, Allium sativum L. (Amaryllidaceae), como potencial protetor contra Anisakis spp. Infecção tipo II (L3) (Nematoda) em ratos Wistar

Abstract The consumption of inadequately thermally treated fish is a public health risk due to the possible propagation of Anisakis larvae. The present study demonstrated the physiological and histopathological changes that accompanied an oral inoculation of crude extracts from fresh and thermally treated Anisakis Type II (L3) in rats. Worms were isolated from a marine fish and examined and identified using light and scanning electron microscopy. The study was performed in 6 rat groups: control (I), garlic oil (GO) inoculated (II), fresh L3 inoculated (III), thermally treated L3 inoculated (IV), fresh L3 + GO inoculated (V), and a thermally treated L3 + GO inoculated (VI) groups. Rats inoculated with fresh and thermally treated L3 showed abnormal liver and kidney functions associated with the destruction of normal architecture. GO produced a protective effect in rat groups inoculated with L3 extracts + GO via the amelioration of liver and kidney functions, which was confirmed by the marked normal structure on histology. Cooking of L3-infected fish induced severe alterations compared to uncooked fish. The administration of garlic before and after fish eating is recommended to avoid the dangerous effect of anisakids, even if they are cooked.

Resumo O consumo de peixe inadequadamente tratado termicamente representa um risco para a saúde pública, com a possibilidade da propagação de larvas de Anisakis. O presente estudo demonstrou as alterações fisiológicas e histopatológicas acompanhadas de inoculação oral de extractos brutos de Anisakis tipo II (L3) frescos e termicamente tratados em ratos. Os vermes foram isolados de um peixe marinho, examinados e identificados por microscopia de luz e eletrônica de varredura. O estudo foi conduzido em 6 grupos de ratos: controle (I), óleo de alho (GO) inoculado (II), L3 fresco inoculado (III), L3 tratado termicamente inoculado (IV), L3 fresco + GO inoculado (V), e um grupo L3 + GO tratado termicamente inoculado (VI). Observou-se que ratos inoculados com L3 fresco e tratados termicamente mostraram funções hepáticas e renais anormais, associadas à destruição da sua arquitetura normal. GO produziu um efeito protector em grupos de ratos inoculados com extractos L3 + GO através da melhoria das funções do fígado e dos rins, o que foi confirmado pela estrutura normal marcada da sua histologia. A cozedura de peixes infectados com L3 induziu alterações mais graves do que os peixes não cozidos. Recomenda-se a administração de alho antes e depois do consumo de peixe, para evitar o efeito perigoso dos anisakids, mesmo que sejam cozidos.

Freshwater Clam as a Potential Bioindicator for Silver/Saponin Nanocomposites Toxicity.

Despite the progress in using silver nano products in many fields, including medicine, food, and industry, their effects on the environment need more attention. Therefore, the current study aimed to assess the effect of silver/saponin nanocomposites (Ag/S NCs) for the first time on the aquatic environment by using freshwater clam, Caelatura aegyptiaca, as a fundamental bioindicator in the freshwater system. Following the preparation and characterization of Ag/S NCs by using atomic absorption spectrophotometer, UV-Vis spectrophotometer, X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and acute toxicity study, we exposed the clam to three different doses of Ag/S NCs (12.5, 25 and 50 mg L-1) for consecutive 6 days. All Ag/S NCs concentrations caused a significant increase in malondialdehyde and nitric oxide while induced a notable decrease in glutathione and catalase levels in all studied organs. Moreover, the histological alternations were observed in gills, labial palp, and foot tissues, particularly at dose 50 mg L-1. From the results of our work, we concluded that toxicity of Ag/S NCs on freshwater clam leads to an oxidative stress response as well as histopathological changes. Besides, we assumed that Coelatura aegyptiaca could be used as a sensitive bioindicator for monitoring water pollution caused by different nanoparticles. Therefore, we do recommend performing further studies by using fresh clam to provide a better assessment for our aquatic environment to prevent water pollution locally and globally.

Kaempferol protects against cadmium chloride-induced hippocampal damage and memory deficits by activation of silent information regulator 1 and inhibition of poly (ADP-Ribose) polymerase-1.

The neuroprotective effect of Kaempferol against cadmium chloride (CdCl2) -induced neurotoxicity is well reported. The silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1) and poly (ADP-Ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP1) are two related cellular molecules that can negatively affect the activity of each other to promote or inhibit cell survival, respectively. It is still largely unknown if the neurotoxicity of CdCl2 or the neuroprotection of Kaempferol are mediated by modulating SIRT1 and/or PAPR1 activities. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that CdCl2-induced memory deficit and hippocampal damage are associated with downregulation/inhibition of SIRT1 and activation of PAPR1, an effect that can be reversed by co-treatment with Kaempferol. Rats (n = 12/group) were divided into 4 groups as control, control + Kaempferol (50 mg//kg), CdCl2 (0.5 mg/kg), and CdCl2 + Kaempferol. All treatments were administered orally for 30 days daily. As compared to control rats, CdCl2 reduced rat's final body weights (21.8%) and their food intake (30%), induced oxidative stress and apoptosis in their hippocampi, and impaired their short and long-term recognition memory functions. Besides, the hippocampi of CdCl2-treated rats had higher levels of TNF-α (197%), and IL-6 (190%) with a concomitant increase in nuclear activity and levels of NF-κB p65 (721% & 554%). Besides, they showed reduced nuclear activity (53%) and levels (74%) of SIRT1, higher nuclear activity and levels of PARP1 (292% & 138%), increased nuclear levels of p53 (870%), and higher acetylated levels of NF-κB p65 (513%), p53 (644%), PARP1 (696%), and FOXO-2 (149%). All these events were significantly reversed in the CdCl2 + Kaempferol-treated rats. Of note, Kaempferol also increased levels of MnSOD (73.5%), and GSH (40%), protein levels of Bcl-2 (350%), and nuclear activity (67%) and levels (46%) of SIRT1 in the hippocampi of the control rats. In conclusion, Kaempferol ameliorates CdCl2-induced memory deficits and hippocampal oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis by increasing SIRT1 activity and inhibiting PARP1 activity.

Curcumin phytosome modulates aluminum-induced hepatotoxicity via regulation of antioxidant, Bcl-2, and caspase-3 in rats.

Increasing entrance of aluminum chloride (AlCl3) in many fields exposes human beings to its biotoxicity. Thereby, the present study assesses the potential ameliorative role of curcumin phytosome (CP) on AlCl3-induced hepatotoxicity. Rats were divided into four groups (n = 6): group 1 served as control; group 2 received CP (200 mg CP/kg b.wt) for 21 days; group 3 injected three doses of AlCl3 (30 mg/kg/body weight) every 5 days intraperitoneally; group 4 received CP for 7 days prior to AlCl3 and then received CP concurrently with AlCl3 for another 14 days. AlCl3 markedly increased (P < 0.05) the concentrations of AST, ALT, ALP, LDH, total bilirubin, and LPO as well as depleted (P < 0.05) albumin, GSH, SOD, and GPx stores in comparison to the control group. These biochemical alterations supported by the lesion observed in histological sections, increasing the expression of caspase-3 and decreasing the expression of Bcl-2. Treatment with CP modulates the hepatic dysfunction, boosting the endogenous antioxidant status, downregulating the expression of caspase-3, and upregulating the expression of Bcl-2. This hepatic ameliorative effect may be mediated by the ability of CP to repair the oxidant/antioxidant equilibrium rather than its ability to suppress apoptosis.

The Protective Role of Toll-Like Receptor Agonist Monophosphoryl Lipid A Against Vaccinated Murine Schistosomiasis.

PURPOSE: Schistosomiasis is a disease that afflicts over 220 million people worldwide. To date, there is no vaccine against schistosomiasis and chemotherapy relies basically on a single drug, praziquantel. The current study was undertaken to investigate the therapeutic effects of monophosphoryl lipid A (MPLA) as an adjuvant in soluble egg antigen (SEA)-vaccinated and Schistosoma mansoni-infected mice. METHODS: Mice were divided into two groups of uninfected and Schistosoma mansoni infected. The two groups were treated differently with MPLA, SEA and praziquantel. Study parameters included parasitological, immunological and biochemical parameters. RESULTS: Parasitological parameters revealed that intraperitoneal injection of MPLA into SEA-vaccinated and S. mansoni-infected mice was effective in reducing the worm and egg burden, granuloma count and diameter as well as the total area of infection in their livers versus SEA-untreated but infected ones. In addition, MPLA showed ameliorative action on the elevated liver oxidative stress marker, including malondialdehyde (MDA) and a decrease in the level of the antioxidant enzymes, reduced glutathione (GSH) and catalase (CAT) which may have a role in the liver damage and fibrosis due to S. mansoni infection. CONCLUSION: Treatment with MPLA has multi-functions in attenuating the deleterious impacts of S. mansoni infection in mice livers. Its effects are mediated through a reduction of ova count, worm burden, granuloma diameter and amelioration of antioxidant defense systems, and liver function biomarkers.

Ameliorative effect of selenium nanoparticles against aluminum chloride-induced hepatorenal toxicity in rats.

The present study evaluated the possible ameliorative efficacy of selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) on AlCl3-induced hepatorenal injury in rats. Animals were randomly divided into four groups (n = 6): group 1, the control; group 2, received SeNPs (0.4 mg/kg b.wt) for 21 days; group 3, injected with three doses of AlCl3 intraperitoneally (30 mg/kg/body weight) every 5 days; group 4, received SeNPs for 7 days prior to AlCl3 and then received SeNPs concurrently with AlCl3 for the following 14 days. It was observed that AlCl3 increased the levels of AST, ALT, ALP, LDH, total bilirubin, creatinine, urea, uric acid, and MDA significantly; as well as the reduction in the levels of GSH, SOD, GPx stores in comparison with the control group. These biochemical alterations were accompanied and confirmed by the lesion appeared in histological sections in addition to the increase in the expression of caspase-3 and the decrease of the Bcl-2expression. Treatment with SeNPs ameliorates the hepatorenal dysfunction, replenishes the endogenous antioxidant system, downregulates the expression of caspase-3, and upregulates the expression of Bcl-2. This hepatorenal ameliorative role may be due to the ability of SeNPs to equilibrate the oxidant/antioxidant system besides its ability to attenuate apoptosis process.

Morphological and molecular insights of a new species of trypanorhynchid cestode parasite, Nybelinia exostigmi, in the Narrowstripe cardinal fish Apogon exostigma / Abordagens morfológicas e moleculares de uma nova espécie de parasito cestóide tripanorrinquídeo, Nybelinia exostigmi, no peixe cardinal Narrowstripe Apogon exostigma

Abstract Forty specimens of the Narrowstripe cardinal fish Apogon exostigma were examined for gastrointestinal helminthes, and 62.5% were infected with a new trypanorhynchid larval cestode parasite. The morphology of its larval stage was studied based on light and scanning electron microscopy. The data revealed plerocercoid larvae characterized by a pyriform body lined with prominent microtriches; the acraspedote scolex had four overlapping bothridia; four tentacles protruded through the pars bothridialis; the armature of the tentacles was homeocanthous, homeomorphous, and consisted of falcate compact rose-thorn-shaped tentacular hooks; four oval-shaped bulbs in pars bulbosa; and short appendix at terminal end of the body. Molecular analysis of the 18S rRNA sequences verified the taxonomy of this parasite and supported its morphology. We discovered that there was a close identity (up to 87%) with alternative species obtained for comparison from GenBank. The data also showed that there were high blast scores and low divergence values between this parasite and other Tentaculariidae species. The phyletic analysis showed that parasite sequences in conjunction with existing data places this trypanorhynchid species among the Tentaculariidae. This species is deeply embedded within genus Nybelinia with close relationships to Nybelinia queenslandensis as a putative sister taxon.

Resumo Quarenta espécimes do peixe cardinal Apogon exostigma da Narrowstripe foram examinados para identificar helmintos gastrointestinais, destes 62,5% foram infectados com um novo parasito larval cestóide tripanorrinquídeo. A morfologia de seu estágio larval foi estudada na microscopia de luz e eletrônica de varredura. Os dados revelaram larvas plerocercoides caracterizadas por uma forma piriforme com um corpo revestido por microtrícinos proeminentes; o escolex acraspedótico tinha quatro sobreposições; quatro tentáculos se projetavam através da pars botridialis; a armadura dos tentáculos era homeocante, homeomorfa e consistia de ganchos tentaculares em forma de espinhos, em forma de falcão; quatro bulbos ovais em pars bulbosa; e apêndice curto na extremidade terminal do corpo. A análise molecular das sequências de RNAr 18S verificou a taxonomia desse parasita e apoiou sua morfologia. Descobrimos que havia uma identidade próxima (até 87%) com espécies alternativas obtidas para comparação do GenBank. Os dados também mostraram que houve altos escores de brusone e baixos valores de divergência entre este parasita e outras espécies de Tentaculariidae. A análise filética mostrou que as sequências de parasitas em conjunto com os dados existentes colocam esta espécie de tripanorimidídeo entre os Tentaculariidae. Esta espécie está profundamente enraizada no gênero Nybelinia, tendo relações próximas com Nybelinia queenslandensis como um putativo táxon irmão.

Light microscopy and surface topography of Urotrema scabridum and Renschetrema indicum (Digenea) from Rhinopoma hardwickii (Chiroptera): first report in Egypt / Microscopia de luz e topografia superficial de Urotrema scabridum e Renschetrema indicum (Digenea) de Rhinopoma hardwickii (Chiroptera): primeiro relato no Egito

Abstract This report introduced the description of two different species of digenean parasites isolated from the intestine of Rhinopoma hardwickii with new host and locality records in Egypt. The recovered helminthes were studied morphologically and morphometrically by light microscopy and the surface topography of the two species was elucidated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Urotrema scabridum had an elongated body, testes were tandem, ovaries were pretesticular, and vitelline follicles were observed in 2 lateral fields. SEM showed that the anterior half was covered with random and backwardly directed tegument spines. The lumen of the oral sucker was as a longitudinal slit encircled with type I dome-shaped papillae. The ventral sucker was wrinkled and covered by tongue-shaped tegument spines and several scattered papillae. Renschetrema indicum had a fusiform body with minute spines densely distributed in the anterior part of the body; testes sub-triangular, ovary fusiform; vitellaria were randomly distributed around the ceca and genital organs. SEM showed that the fore-body was ventrally concave and surrounded by cytoplasmic ridges equipped with numerous closely packed claw-shaped spines. The oral sucker was externally surrounded by two circles of papillae while the lip of the ventral sucker was rounded and surrounded by three papillae located in its upper end and anterolaterally.

Resumo O trabalho descreve duas espécies diferentes de parasitas digêneos isolados do intestino de Rhinopoma hardwickii, com novos registros de hospedeiros e localidade no Egito. Os helmintos recuperados foram estudados morfologicamente e morfometricamente por microscopia óptica, e a topografia superficial das duas espécies foi verificada por microscopia eletrônica de varredura (MEV). Urotrema scabridum apresenta um corpo alongado, testículos em tandem, ovários localizados pré-testiculares e os folículos vitelinos foram observados em 2 campos laterais. A microscopia eletrônica (ME) mostrou que a metade anterior do tegumento estava coberta com espinhos aleatoriamente e voltados para trás. O lúmen da ventosa oral apresentava-se como uma fenda longitudinal cercada de papilas em forma de cúpula tipo I. A ventosa ventral estava enrrugada e coberta por espinhos no tegumento em forma de língua e com várias papilas dispersas. Renschetrema indicum tinha um corpo fusiforme com espinhos diminutos densamente distribuídos na parte anterior do corpo; testículos sub-triangulares, ovários fusiformes; as glândulas vitelínicas estavam distribuídas aleatoriamente em torno do ceco e dos órgãos genitais. À ME a região anterior mostrou-se ventralmente côncava e cercada por cristas citoplasmáticas equipadas com numerosos espinhos em forma de unhas muito próximos. A ventosa oral apresentou-se externamente cercada por duas fileiras de papilas, enquanto a borda da ventosa ventral mostrou-se arredondada e cercada por três papilas localizadas na sua extremidade superior e antero-lateralmente.

First molecular characterization and morphological aspects of Sarcocystis fusiformis infecting water buffalo Bubalus bubalis in Egypt.

Fresh muscle samples from water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) aged 2-15, from Giza Province, Egypt; were examined for Sarcocystis infection. Macroscopic ovoid sarcocysts embedded in the muscle tissues of the examined buffaloes were detected; they measured 152-230 (210 ± 7) µm in length and 37-119 (95 ± 3) µm in width. The esophagus was the most infected organ followed by the diaphragm, and tongue, while the heart muscles were the least infected. The cyst cavity was compartmentalized by septa derived from the ground substance located under the primary cyst wall. Using transmission electron microscopy, the primary cyst wall bordered sarcocysts were determined to be 0.08-0.22 µm in thickness, raised from the parasitophorous vacuolar membrane, and surrounded by a secondary cyst wall of host origin. The primary cyst wall had irregular wall folds with numerous cauliflower-like projections of variable sizes and shapes accompanied by knob-like electron-dense elevations. 18S rRNA gene expression studies confirmed that the present parasite isolates belonged to the genus Sarcocystis. The sequence data showed significant identities (>90%) with archived gene sequences from many Eimeriidae organisms, and a dendogram showing the phylogenetic relationship was constructed. The most closely related species was Sarcocystis fusiformis KR186117, with an identity percentage of 98%. The recovered sequences were deposited in the GenBank under the accession number MG572125. The present study, to our knowledge, is the first collective ultrastructural and molecular study that confirmed the taxonomy of sarcocysts isolated from water buffaloes in Egypt as Sarcocystis fusiformis.

The light microscopy and ultrastructural characteristics of Myxobolus naffari (Myxosporea, Myxobolidae) infecting the Nile carp Labeo niloticus (Cyprinidae) and its histological impact

During a survey of myxosporean parasites infecting freshwater fishes from the River Nile at Giza Governorates, Egypt between March and September 2016, nine out of 30 specimens of the Nile carp Labeo niloticus (Cyprinidae) were found to be naturally infected with Myxobolus naffari (Myxobolidae). Small macroscopic plasmodia appeared embedded in the host gill tissue accompanied with fusion of the gill epithelia, and atrophy was observed at the site of infection. The host reaction was manifested by the encapsulation of the plasmodia with a thick layer of connective tissue. The plasmodia appeared as white, elongated rods between gill filaments with an intensity ranging from three to eight cysts/fish. The average dimensions of plasmodia were 1.2­2.0 (1.8 ± 0.2) mm long × 0.4­0.7 (0.6 ± 0.2) mm wide. The spores were oval, reaching 9.56­11.2 (10.2 ± 0.2) µm long and 6.5­7.7 (7.0 ± 0.4) µm wide with two equal-sized polar capsules regularly arranged at the anterior pole of each spore. They were 4.51­5.5 (5.1 ± 0.4) µm in length and 1.5­2.0 (1.7 ± 0.2) µm in width. Histological, semi-thin sections were taken through parasite plasmodia and transmission electron microscopic examination of ultrathin sections was performed to describe the developmental stages of the recorded parasite within the host fish.