Attenuating effects of selenium and zinc against hexavalent chromium-induced oxidative stress, hormonal instability, and placenta damage in preimplanted rats.

As a toxic metal, hexavalent chromium (CrVI) has effects on both the reproductive and endocrine systems. This study aimed to evaluate the protective effects of selenium (Se) and zinc (Zn) against the toxicity of chromium on the placenta in pregnant Wistar albino rats. Thirty pregnant Wistar rats were divided into control and four treated groups, receiving subcutaneously (s.c) on the 3rd day of pregnancy, K2Cr2O7 (10 mg/kg body weight (bw)) alone, or in association with Se (0.3 mg/kg bw), ZnCl2 (20 mg/kg bw), or both of them simultaneously. Plasma steroid hormones, placenta histoarchitecture, oxidative stress profile, and developmental parameters were investigated. These results showed that K2Cr2O7 exposure induced a significant increase in the levels of both plasma estradiol (E2) and placenta malondialdehyde (MDA), the number of fetal resorptions, and percent of post-implantation loss. On the other hand, K2Cr2O7 significantly reduced developmental parameters, maternal body and placenta weight, and plasma progesterone (P) and chorionic gonadotropin hormone (ß HCG) levels. However, K2Cr2O7 significantly decreased the placenta activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), reduced glutathione (GSH), and nonprotein sulfhydryl (NPSH). These changes have been reinforced by histopathological evaluation of the placenta. Se and/or ZnCl2 supplementation provoked a significant improvement in most indices. These results suggest that the co-treatment with Se or ZnCl2 strongly opposes the placenta cytotoxicity induced by K2Cr2O7 through its antioxidant action.

(-)-Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) pharmacokinetics and molecular interactions towards amelioration of hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia associated hepatorenal oxidative injury in alloxan induced diabetic mice.

Diabetes mellitus has become a serious problem associated with health complications, such as metabolism disorders and liver-kidney dysfunction. The inadequacies associated with conventional medicines have led to a determined search for alternative natural therapeutic agents. The present study was conducted to evaluate the hypoglycemic, antilipidemic, and antioxidant effects of EGCG in surviving diabetic mice. Alloxan diabetic mice were treated with EGCG. Their bloods were collected and submitted to various biochemical measurements, including blood glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, urea, creatinine, and transaminases. Their livers and kidneys were isolated to assess oxidative damage and to perform histological analysis. Both EGCG and insulin treatment of diabetic mice resulted in a significant reduction in fasting blood glucose levels. EGCG supplementation also ameliorated hepatic as well as renal toxicity indices. Moreover, diabetic mice injected with EGCG exhibited significant changes in antioxidant enzyme activities in the liver and kidney. Histological analyses also showed that it exerted an ameliorative action on these organs and efficiently protected the liver-kidney functions of diabetic mice. EGCG was found to bind α-amylase, PTP1B, and α-glucosidase with good affinities ranging from -6.1 to -8.4 kcal/mol. The findings revealed that EGCG administration induced attractive curative effects on diabetic mice, particularly in terms of liver-kidney function. EGCG can, therefore, be considered as a potential strong candidate for future applications to treat and alleviate diabetic burden. Its pharmacokinetics, high affinities, and molecular interactions with the targeted receptors satisfactory explain the in vivo findings.

The pyrethroid insecticide permethrin confers hepatotoxicity through DNA damage and mitochondria-associated apoptosis induction in rat: Palliative benefits of Fumaria officinalis.

Permethrin (PER) is a pyrethroid pesticide that is extensively used as an insecticide in world because of its high activity and its low mammalian toxicity. The current study was conducted to investigate the protective action of Fumaria officinalis against PER-induced liver injury in male rats. However, HPLC-DAD showed the richness of 6 components in F. officinalis (F) including quercetin, ferulic acid, and naringenin which were the most abundant. Total polyphenols, total flavonoids, and condensed tannins were studied by phytochemical screening. In vitro, antioxidant properties showed that F. officinalis exhibited the highest DPPH radical, FRAP, and H2 O2 tests and total antioxidant capacity. Wistar rats were divided into four groups: negative control group (C), positive control group (F) (200 mg F. officinalis/kg BW), PER group (34.05 mg permethrin/kg BW), and PER + F group (34.05 mg permethrin/kg BW and 200 mg F. officinalis/kg BW). Oral administration of PER led to promote a decrease of body weight and Ca2+ -ATPases and Mg2+ -ATPases activities and an increase of plasma C-reactive protein level, transaminases, and hepatic ϒ-GT activities as well as hepatic and mitochondrial oxidative stress. An increase in plasma lactate-to pyruvate ratio and a reduction in complexes enzymes I, III, and IV activities were also observed. In addition, histoarchitecture of liver in PER-treated rats showed apoptosis and necrosis as confirmed by DNA fragmentation. F. officinalis significantly exerted hepatoprotective effect by modulating hepatic alteration and mitochondrial dysfunction as well as genotoxicity. This effect could be attributed to phenolics compounds such as polyphenols, condensed tannins, and flavonoids.

Beneficial effects of Salvia officinalis essential oil on vanadium-induced testicular injury, DNA damage and histological alterations in Wistar rats.

Vanadium has been shown to catalyze the generation of reactive oxygen species. Since free radical production and lipid peroxidation are potentially important mediators in testicular physiology and pathophysiology, the present study was conducted to elucidate vanadium-induced oxidative damage in rat testis and the ameliorative role of Salvia officinalis essential oil (SEO) against the adverse effects of this heavy metal. Adult male Wistar rats were treated daily during 10 days either with ammonium metavanadate (5 mg/kg bw, intraperitoneally), SEO (15 mg/kg bw, orally) or their combination. A group of rats receiving daily a saline solution served as a negative control. Vanadium treatment induced a significant decrease in body and reproductive organ weights, serum testosterone level and sperm number and motility. An increase in lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation as well as a marked inhibition in the activities of antioxidant enzymes in the testes and seminal vesicles indicated the occurrence of oxidative stress after vanadium toxicity. Histopathological changes in testis and seminal vesicles were also observed following vanadium administration. However, co-administration of SEO to vanadium-treated rats resulted in an appreciable improvement of these parameters, emphasizing the therapeutic effects of SEO. It can be suggested that SEO mitigates vanadium-induced reproductive damage due to its antioxidant capacity. Thus, we can hypothesize that SEO supplementation could protect against vanadium poisoning.

Mitochondrial bioenergetics and redox dysfunction in nephrotoxicity induced by pyrethroid permethrin are ameliorated by flavonoid-rich fraction.

The present study was designed to evaluate in vitro and in vivo the potential anti-inflammatory and nephroprotective potential of ethyl acetate fraction extracted from Fumaria officinalis (EAF) against permethrin (PER). Male wistar rats were treated daily by gavage during 7 days as follows: group C: negative control rats received 2 mL/kg bw of corn oil, group EAF: positive control rats received EAF at a dose of 200 mg/kg bw dissolved in water, group PER: rats received PER at a dose of 34.05 mg/kg bw and group (PER + EAF): rats received PER (34.05 mg/kg bw) and EAF (200 mg/kg bw). In vitro study showed the ability of EAF to inhibit protein denaturation and heat-induced hemolysis confirming its anti-inflammatory activity. In vivo, PER treatment decreased calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P) levels and increased lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity in plasma. It induced oxidative stress objectified by an increase in the lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation and a perturbation of antioxidant system in kidney and mitochondria. The activities of NADH-ubiquinone reductase, ubiquinol-cytochrome C reductase and cytochrome C oxidase activities were reduced. These alterations were confirmed by histopathological studies. Co-treatment with EAF improved the antioxidant status and mitochondrial bioenergetics. The nephroprotective effects of EAF could be attributed to its modulation of detoxification enzymes and/or free radical scavenging actions.

Chemical composition, antioxidant activities, in an allergic asthma model, of Olea europaea L. leaf extracts from Collo (Skikda, Algeria).

This study is an attempt to characterize the chemical composition and antioxidant activity of olive leaves variety (namely Bouricha variety) that is very widespread in the East of Algeria. The aqueous extract (AE) of leaves was initially analyzed for its phenolic profile. Using the liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry analysis, it was possible to identify the predominant components in the AE of the leaves. This extract was hydrolyzed with acid and gave hydroxytyrosol (HT). AE and HT were evaluated for their 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging capacity, ferric reducing antioxidant power and total antioxidant activity by phosphomolybdenum method. The antioxidant and anti-asthmatic activities of these extracts were examined in a model of experimental asthma in Wistar rats. For measuring the intensity of the airway inflammation, oxidative stress parameters were analyzed in lungs and a histological study of this tissue was performed. The obtained results showed that the sensitization of the ovalbumin (OVA) group induced lung inflammation and severe lipid peroxidation (LPO) revealed by a significant increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and a decrease in the non-enzymatic and enzymatic antioxidant systems. However, the administration of AE and HT extracts significantly improved the antioxidant state in asthma disease and provided evidence for the relation between phenolic compounds and the high antioxidant activity of olive leaves extracts, especially HT more than AE.

Effect of Medicago sativa compared To 17ß-oestradiol on osteoporosis in ovariectomized mice.

Phytoestrogens, with a wide range of beneficial effects, prevent bone loss caused by oestrogen deficiency.The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of Medicago sativa ethanol extract compared to 17ß-oestradiol on osteoporosis in ovariectomized mice.The study was carried out on female mice, divided into five groups: control mice (GI), Medicago sativa treated mice (0.75 g/kg BW/day) (GII), ovariectomized mice (GIII) and ovariectomized mice treated either with Medicago sativa (GIV) or with 17ß-oestradiol (50 µg/Kg BW/day) (GV).Our results showed that Medicago sativa or 17ß-oestradiol treatments significantly attenuated perturbations of mineral levels, histological changes and oxidative stress in the femurs of ovariectomized mice.Medicago sativa prevented bone loss induced by oestrogen deficiency, which could be attributed to its richness in kaempferol, syringic acid, naringenin and myrictin. Its effects were more beneficial or similar compared to 17ß-oestradiol.

The Role of Allium subhirsutum L. in the Attenuation of Dermal Wounds by Modulating Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in Wistar Albino Rats.

In our study, Allium subhirsutum L. (AS) was investigated to assess its phenolic profile and bioactive molecules including flavonoids and organosulfur compounds. The antioxidant potential of AS and wound healing activity were addressed using skin wound healing and oxidative stress and inflammation marker estimation in rat models. Phytochemical and antiradical activities of AS extract (ASE) and oil (ASO) were studied. The rats were randomly assigned to four groups: group I served as a control and was treated with simple ointment base, group II was treated with ASE ointment, group III was treated with ASO ointment and group IV (reference group; Ref) was treated with a reference drug "Cytolcentella® cream". Phytochemical screening showed that total phenols (215 ± 3.5 mg GAE/g) and flavonoids (172.4 ± 3.1 mg QE/g) were higher in the ASO than the ASE group. The results of the antioxidant properties showed that ASO exhibited the highest DPPH free radical scavenging potential (IC50 = 0.136 ± 0.07 mg/mL), FRAP test (IC50 = 0.013 ± 0.006 mg/mL), ABTS test (IC50 = 0.52 ± 0.03 mg/mL) and total antioxidant capacity (IC50 = 0.34 ± 0.06 mg/mL). In the wound healing study, topical application of ASO performed the fastest wound-repairing process estimated by a chromatic study, percentage wound closure, fibrinogen level and oxidative damage status, as compared to ASE, the Cytolcentella reference drug and the untreated rats. The use of AS extract and oil were also associated with the attenuation of oxidative stress damage in the wound-healing treated rats. Overall, the results provided that AS, particularly ASO, has a potential medicinal value to act as effective skin wound healing agent.

Effects of estrogen deficiency on liver function and uterine development: assessments of Medicago sativa's activities as estrogenic, anti-lipidemic, and antioxidant agents using an ovariectomized mouse model.

We investigated the effects of Medicago sativa supplementation on the lipid profiles and antioxidant capacities of ovariectomized mice.The study was performed on white Swiss female mice that were divided into five groups: control, treated with Medicago sativa (0.75 g/kg/day), ovariectomized, ovariectomized treated with ß-estradiol (1 µg/day) or with Medicago sativa. The mice were sacrificed after 3 and 8 weeks of treatment.Ovariectomy induced a decrease in overall growth, uterine atrophy, and hyperlipidemia demonstrated by increased cholesterol, triglycerides, and decreased HDL. We have shown the involvement of oxidative stress in this hepatic lesion proven by increased levels of TBARS, GPX, and GSH, and decreased levels of SOD and catalase.Treatment with Medicago sativa restores lipid balance, the activity of antioxidant enzymes and improves lipid peroxidation. This is probably due to the richness of this plant in polyphenols and flavonoids considered as an antioxidant and phytoestrogenic elements.

Salvia officinalis mitigates uterus and liver damages induced by an estrogen deficiency in ovariectomized rats.

The present study evaluated the antioxidant activity of Salvia officinalis (sage) and its protective effect on estrogen deficiency in ovariectomized rats. Female Wistar rats were treated during either 15 or 30 days as follows: group C: negative controls, group S: positive controls treated with sage leaves, ovariectomized rats (group OVX) and ovariectomized rats receiving either sage (OVX-S) or hormonal (Group OVX-E) treatments, respectively. After 15 and 30 days of treatments, OVX rats showed a gain in body weight and an increase of absolute and relative liver weights. Meanwhile, absolute and relative uterus weights were decreased. Moreover, ovariectomy altered plasma transaminases' activities, lipid profile, and disrupted the redox status of liver and uterine tissues. It affected also the reproductive tract by decreasing the uterus glycogen content and plasma LDH activity. Supplementation of sage via the diet reduced weight gain and oxidative stress resulting from estrogen deficiency. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: During menopause, sexual hormone deficiency, especially estrogen, causes several morphological and physiological disturbances in liver and uterus tissues. In fact, the body weight gain and disturbances of redox status in liver and uterus were the main health problems detected after menopause. Sage leaves, used as medicinal plant, exerted its beneficial effects in the management of menopause disorders. As an important source of antioxidants, sage leaves could prevent obesity and oxidative damage in the liver and uterus resulting from estrogen deficiency.

Flavonoid-rich fraction attenuates permethrin-induced toxicity by modulating ROS-mediated hepatic oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction ex vivo and in vivo in rat.

The present study explores the antioxidant, anti-microbial, and hepatoprotective potentials of flavonoid-rich fractions from Fumaria officinalis against permethrin-induced liver damage ex vivo/in vivo in rat. However, HPLC-DAD analysis revealed the richness of 6 components in ethyl acetate fraction (EAF) where ferulic acid, rosmarinic acid, and myricetin are the most abundant. The in vitro assays showed that EAFs have impressive antioxidant and anti-microbial properties. Ex vivo, permethrin (PER) (100 µM) induced a decrease of hepatic AST and ALT activities and 25-OH vitamin D and vitamin C levels and an increase of ALP and LDH activities, TBARS, and ϒ-GT levels with a disturbance of oxidative status. The hepatoprotective effect of EAF (1 mg/mL) against PER was confirmed by the amelioration of oxidative stress profile. In vivo, permethrin was found to increase absolute and relative liver weights, plasma transaminase activities, lactate-to-pyruvate ratio, hepatic and mitochondrial lipid peroxidation, and protein oxidation levels. This pesticide triggered a decrease of Ca2+ and Mg2+-ATPases and mitochondrial enzyme activities. The co-treatment with EAF reestablished the hepatic and mitochondrial function, which could be attributed to its richness in phenolic compounds.

Anti-oxidant and hepatoprotective effects of Salvia officinalis essential oil against vanadium-induced oxidative stress and histological changes in the rat liver.

The present study was designed to evaluate the protective effects of Salvia officinalis essential oil (SOEO) against vanadium-induced hepatotoxicity in Wistar rats. Animals were divided into three groups: the first group served as the control (C), where rats received daily 0.5 mL of saline solution (0.9%) given by intraperitoneal (i.p.) way. Rats in the second group (V) received daily by i.p. way 5 mg/kg BW of NH4VO3 (V). Rats in the third group (SV) received daily V (5 mg/kg BW) by i.p. way and SOEO (15 mg/kg BW) by gavage. Animals were sacrificed after 4 or 10 days of treatment. Administration of V increased plasma ALT, AST, ALP, and LDH activities, and cholesterol, bilirubin, triglyceride, and NO levels in rats and reduced anti-oxidant enzyme activities in the liver. Treatment with SOEO significantly attenuated these changes. Moreover, the histopathological changes and the overexpression of Hsp72/73 proteins induced by V were significantly improved by SOEO. Therefore, our results suggested that SOEO could protect against V-induced oxidative damage in rat livers. The hepatoprotective effect of SOEO might be attributed to its modulation of detoxification enzymes and/or to its anti-oxidant and free radical scavenging effects.

Zygophyllum album leaves extract prevented hepatic fibrosis in rats, by reducing liver injury and suppressing oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis and the TGF-ß1/Smads signaling pathways. Exploring of bioactive compounds using HPLC-DAD-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS.

Zygophyllum album is traditionally used against many illnesses, such as liver disease. The present study investigated the bioactive compounds in methanol extract of Z. album (MEZA) using HPLC-DAD-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS and explored its possible antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and hepatoprotective effect. Twelve phenolic compounds were identified; isorhamnetin-3-O-rutinoside being the main one was the main composite (144.6 mg/100 g dm). Results showed that MEZA reduced significantly the biochemical markers (AST, ALT, LDH and ALP), and the hepatic oxidative stress indicators (MDA, PC, SOD, CAT, and GPx) in deltamethrin (DLM)-treated rats. Moreover, MEZA limited the inflammatory responses through downregulation of NF-κB gene, which suppressed the production of proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1ß, IL-6). Furthermore, Z. album reduced DLM-induced apoptosis by attenuating caspase 3 and p53 mRNA activation. MEZA treatment also alleviated upregulation of α-SMA, type I collagen, and TGF-ß1 mRNA in the liver. The possible antifibrotic effect of MEZA was clearly demonstrated by the histopathology examination, using Masson's Trichrome and Sirius Red stainings. Therefore, the current study suggested that the bioactive compounds of Z. album possessed antifibrotic effect against DLM-induced hepatic fibrosis, by protecting liver tissue, and inhibiting oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis and the TGF-ß1/Smads signaling pathways.

The preventive effect of aqueous extract of Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) leaves against the nephrotoxicity of carbon tetrachloride in mice.

The present study aimed to evaluate the performance effect of aqueous extract of Rosmarinus officinalis (AERO) against the kidney toxicity induced by CCl4 in mice. The results showed that the renal damage induced by CCl4 was associated with a rise in oxidative stress monitored by a significant increase of TBARS and PCO levels (+89% and +136% respectively, p < .001) and a significant decrease of GSH level (-68%, p < .001) and antioxidants enzymes such as SOD, CAT, and GPX activities (-41.7%, -47.8%, and -50.5%; p < .001, respectively). Also, the nephropathology parameters including creatinine, BUN, and urea (+68.9%, +47%, +48·6% respectively, p < .05) were remarkably increased. These findings were substantiated by histological study. Pretreatment with Rosemary extract significantly attenuated the CCl4 related toxic effects via more than one mechanism such as the inhibition of lipid peroxidation, the stimulation of the synthesis of cellular antioxidants, the decrease of the biomarker kidney and the correction of the kidney structure. We can conclude that the Rosemary is efficient in the prevention of kidney function against CCl4 toxicity.

Beneficial effects of crataegus oxyacantha extract on neurobehavioral deficits and brain tissue damages induced by an insecticide mixture of deltamethrin and chlorpyrifos in adult wistar rats.

Pesticides, such as organophosphorus and pyrethroids, are extensively used in the agrofields which can significantly increase crop productivity. Humans are exposed to pesticides via dermal contact, inhalation and ingestion due to occupational exposure. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the protective role of the aqueous extract of Crataegus oxyacantha during acute exposure of rats to the combination of deltamethrin (DM) and chlorpyrifos (CPF) in rats (DCF). The combination of vitamins C and E (Vit CE) was used as a standard antioxidant. The Crataegus oxyacantha extract revealed the presence of a high level of phenolic compounds identified by HPLC analysis. Male wistar rats were divided into six groups: (I) corn oil, (II) AECO (1 ml/100 g), (III) DCF (DM 5 mg/kg, CPF 1 mg/kg), (IV) AECO + DCF, (V) Vit CE (Vit C 100 mg/kg, Vit E 100 mg/kg), and (VI) Vit CE + DCF. AECO and Vit CE were administered 10 days before the administration of DCF. The findings revealed that the administration of DM and CPF mixture induced a significant decrease in serum AChE and DNA damage, as indicated by brain DNA fragmentation. In addition, behavioral tests by open field and elevated plus maze showed impaired recognition memory. The results showed that AECO or Vit CE alleviated significantly neurobehavioral alterations, reduced lipid peroxidation in brain, and restored the antioxidant parameters (SOD, CAT, GPx and GSH) to normal levels. Furthermore, brain DNA fragmentation and histopathology in DCF treated rats were improved by AECO administration. All results revealed that C. oxyacantha extract, rich in polyphenolic compounds, had potential antioxidant effects on the combination of DM and CPF-induced oxidative brain damage.

Hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity in rats induced by carbon tetrachloride and the protective effects of Teucrium polium and vitamin C.

This work investigated the protective effects of Teucrium polium (T. polium) and vitamin C (Vit C) against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) induced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity in rats. T. polium reduced the Fer reduced antioxidant power (FRAP) (IC50 = 0.89 mg/ml) and 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) (IC50 = 0.049 µg/ml) than Vit C, FRAP (IC50 = 0.71 mg/ml) and DPPH (IC50 = 0.029 µg/ml). Male albino Wistar rats were divided into six groups: Group I was used as controls, Group II received CCl4 in olive oil (0.5 ml/kg) by gavage, Group III received CCl4 in olive oil (0.5 ml/kg) by gavage after 3 d of receiving T. polium (5 g/l), orally, Group IV received T. polium (5 g/l) alone, by gavage, for 7 d, Group V received CCl4 in olive oil (0.5 ml/kg) by gavage after 3 d of receiving Vit C (250 mg/kg) by gavage and Group VI received Vit C (250 mg/kg) alone by gavage. CCl4 showed an increase of serum hepatic and renal markers aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), urea, and creatinine. Moreover, we noted an increase of lipid peroxidations and a decrease in antioxidants enzymes: superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) of CCl4 rats compared to controls. The pretreatment with (200 mg/kg) of T. polium and with Vit C (250 mg/kg) by gavage, for 7 d, displayed their ability to protect against oxidative damage and biochemical changes induced by CCl4. Our results were in accordance with histopathological observations.

Nano-encapsulation using macrocyclic carbohydrate polymers (ß-cyclodextrins) of Periploca angustifolia extract: Physical stability and protective effect against cadmium-induced alterations in HepG2 cells.

The nano-encapsulation of Periploca angustifolia phenolic extract using the macrocyclic carbohydrate polymers (ß­cyclodextrins) is a most approach compared with other encapsulation methods. In this work, the ß­Cyclodextrins-PAE complex stability has been evaluated by advanced analytical methods and techniques including HPLC, FTIR and XRD. The results showed that CdCl2 treatment caused a significant decrease in cell viability. The CdCl2-induced damage in the HepG2 cells were significantly ameliorated (p < 0.001) by treatment of the PAE and ß­Cyclodextrins-PAE complex. Thus, pretreatment with 100 µg mL-1 of ß­Cyclodextrins-PAE complex significantly protect HepG2 cells against cytotoxicity induced by cadmium exposure more effectively than PAE only. However, Cd-intoxication significantly (p < 0.001) increased these enzymes activity. Additionally, reactive oxygen species generation was significantly decreased when cells were treated with nano-encapsulation PAE. The levels of supernatant antioxidant parameters including superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and GSH were significantly (p < 0.001) decreased in Cd-treated cells with concomitant enhancement of lipid peroxidation. In addition, ß­Cyclodextrins-PAE pretreatment significantly (p < 0.01) inhibited Cd-exposure activated the apoptotic pathway caspace-3 and caspace-9. This effect may be due to the ability of ß­Cyclodextrins molecules to enhance stability and permeability properties.

Potential protective effects of the edible alga Arthrospira platensis against lead-induced oxidative stress, anemia, kidney injury, and histopathological changes in adult rats.

Oxidative damage has been proposed as a possible mechanism involved in lead toxicity. This study investigated the possible protective effect of dietary Arthrospira platensis supplementation against lead acetate-induced kidney injury in adult male rats. Rats were divided into 4 groups: normal rats (control rats), rats treated with spirulina, rats treated with lead (Pb) (0.344 g/kg body weight), and rats treated with Pb and spirulina. The exposure of rats to Pb for 30 days provoked renal damage with significant increases in hematological parameters, oxidative stress-related parameters (i.e., thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, protein carbonyl content, advanced oxidation protein products, and hydrogen peroxide), creatinine and urea levels in plasma, and uric acid level in urine. Conversely, antioxidant enzyme activities (i.e., catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase) and levels of nonprotein thiols, plasma uric acid, and urinary creatinine and urea decreased. The administration of spirulina to Pb-treated rats significantly improved weight, peripheral blood parameters, oxidative stress-related parameters, renal biomarker levels, and antioxidant enzyme activities. Also, rats treated with Pb and spirulina had normal kidney histology. These healing effects are likely the result of the high phenol content and significant antioxidant capacity of A. platensis. Our data strongly suggest that spirulina supplementation improves kidney function and plays an important role in the prevention of complications of Pb intoxication.

Tunisian Clematis flammula Essential Oil Enhances Wound Healing: GC-MS Analysis, Biochemical and Histological Assessment.

The aerial part of Clematis flammula (Ranunculaceae) has been traditionally used in the treatment of skin diseases including mycotic infection in the Tunisian traditional medicine. The study was undertaken to extract and determine the essential oil chemical composition of Clematis flammula aerial parts and to assess the potential of anemonin in wound healing on mechanically wounded wistar rats. The essential oil was obtained by hydrodistillation and analyzed by GC-MS. Anemonin was isolated and then incorporated as active in a cream for which the cytotoxicity was evaluated by methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT)-based colorimetric assay. Then, its potential in wound healing on mechanically wounded wistar rats was assessed. The GC-MS analysis showed that the major compound was protoanemonin (86.74%) which spontaneously dimerised in part to form the anemonin. The wound healing activity of anemonin cream exhibited a non toxic potential of anemonin at a concentration of 25 µg/mL with a cell migration efficiency that reaches more than 80% after 48 hours of treatment. Wound healing efficiency was evaluated by monitoring morphological and skin histological analyses. Comparable wound surface reduction of the group treated by anemonin cream (p ≥ 0.05) when compared to the reference treated group. The skin histological analysis showed the completely wound closure. Antioxidant activity was assessed by the malondialdehyde (MDA) rates and antioxidant enzymes (glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and catalase) determination. The results provided strong support for the effective wound healing activity of anemonin cream, making it a promising candidate as a therapeutic agent in tissue repairing processes.

Metabolic impairments and tissue disorders in alloxan-induced diabetic rats are alleviated by Salvia officinalis L. essential oil.

The current research explored for the first time the effect of Salvia officinalis L. (Sage) essential oil (EO) on Alloxan-induced diabetes in male Wistar rats. Sage EO was extracted by a Clevenger apparatus and analyzed by GC-FID and GC-MS. The most important chemical families identified in this oil were oxygenated monoterpenes (56.32%), hydrocarbon monoterpenes (15.00%) and hydrocarbon sesquiterpenes (14.70%). All treatments were administered orally. In vitro investigation showed that the EO had α-amylase and lipase inhibitory activities with IC50 = 38 µg/mL and IC50 = 52 µg/mL, respectively. In vivo experiments highlighted that the activities of serum α-amylase and lipase were reduced by 46.6% and 32.1%, respectively. Sage EO reduced glycemia by 60% and the level of glycogen stored in the liver by 43.7%. Treatments of diabetes with Sage EO significantly protected the liver function by lowering serum AST (35%), ALT (79%) and LDH (43%) activities. Furthermore, Sage EO was efficient to preserve the kidney function in diabetes by reverting back serum creatinine (47%) and UA (62.5%) concentrations to control values. The obtained results altogether evidenced that Sage EO had hypoglycemic and anti-obesity effects and could be a valuable complement in future diabetes therapy.