Reduction of testosterone levels in Schistosoma haematobium- or Schistosoma mansoni-infected men: a cross-sectional study in two schistosomiasis-endemic areas of the Adamawa region of Cameroon.

BACKGROUND: The incidence of schistosomiasis-induced male reproductive dysfunction and infertility is probably underestimated compared to female genital schistosomiasis. This study aimed to investigate the impact of Schistosoma haematobium or S. mansoni infection on the reproductive function of men of reproductive age in Tibati and Wouldé, two endemic schistosomiasis areas in the Adamawa region of Cameroon. METHODS: A total of 89 men of reproductive age (range 14-56 years) from two localities were enrolled in the study, with 51 in Tibati and 38 in Wouldé. Each participant was submitted to a questionnaire to document data on sociodemographic and stream contact behaviors. A medical examination was performed to measure the testes' circumference and evaluate genital tract pathologies. Stool and urine samples were collected and screened for the presence of S. haematobium or S. mansoni ova. Blood serum was used to assess the levels of transaminases and testosterone. RESULTS: Schistosoma haematobium was present only in Tibati, with a prevalence of 31.37%. The S. mansoni prevalence was 3.92% at Tibati and 44.71% at Wouldé. The intensity of infection was 22.12 ± 9.57 eggs/10 mL for S. haematobium and 128.10 ± 3.76 epg for S. mansoni. Serum transaminase activity and the mean testicular circumference of Schistosoma-positive individuals were close to Schistosoma-negative individuals. However, the testes size was more prominent in S. mansoni-positive individuals than in S. haematobium-positive individuals (P < 0.05). The serum testosterone levels of S. haematobium- and S. mansoni-positive men were significantly reduced by 56.07% (P < 0.001) and 51.94% (P < 0.01), respectively, in comparison to those of Schistosoma-negative men. A significant and negative correlation was established between schistosomiasis and the low serum testosterone level. Male genital tract pathologies such as scrotal abnormalities, varicocele, nodular epididymis, inguinal hernia, and hydrocele were recorded in both Schistosoma-positive and Schistosoma-negative men. However, no significant link was established between schistosomiasis infection and these pathologies. CONCLUSION: These results demonstrated that infection with S. haematobium or S. mansoni is associated with low production of the reproductive hormone testosterone and may be a significant cause of male infertility.

Subchronic administration of Parastar insecticide induced behavioral changes and impaired motor coordination in male Wistar rats.

Parastar is an insecticide formulation of lambda-cyhalothrin and imidacloprid largely used for crop protection in North West Region of Cameroon. In the present study, we evaluated the behavioral activities and motor function of Wistar male rats after subchronic treatment with the pesticide formulation. To this end, three groups of adult rats were administered Parastar at doses 1.25, 2.49 and 6.23 mg/kg, respectively, for 35 days. A control group was included and received distilled water. At the end of the treatment, the animals were submitted to behavioral and functional tests (open field test, elevated plus maze test, light-dark box test, forced swimming test, tail suspension test, beam-walking test, grid suspension test and wire hang test) for estimation of anxiety, exploration, depression and motor coordination. Results revealed that Parastar, at the higher doses tested, 2.49 and 6.23 mg/kg, induced anxiogenic-like pattern behavior in rats in all behavioral assays including open field test (total distance moved, total lines crossed, frequency and total time in center square were all reduced), elevated plus maze (decreased total time spent in open arms and the number of entries in open arms of the elevated plus maze), and light-dark box (the dark box duration increased, while light box duration time and frequency of transition between dark and light box decreased). Treatment with 2.49 and 6.23 mg/kg Parastar increased the immobility time of animals in both forced swimming test and tail suspension test. The insecticide induced decrease in the distance traveled, foot slip and number of turns of animals in the beam walking test. Parastar also decreased the animal suspension time in both grid suspension grip-strength test and the wire hang test. Taken altogether, these results suggest that subchronic administration of Parastar at the doses of 2.49 and 6.23 mg/kg induced anxiety-like and depressive-like behavior as well as impaired motor coordination and muscle strength in male rats.

Aqueous and ethanol extracts of Dracaena arborea (Wild) Link (Dracaenaceae) alleviate reproductive complications of diabetes mellitus in rats.

Reproductive dysfunction is one of the most prevalent diabetes complications. Draceana arborea is known to enhance sexual function in diabetic rats, but the underlying mechanisms have not been thoroughly elucidated. This study examined the effects of D. arborea on some reproductive complications of diabetes in rats. Aqueous and ethanol (500 and 100 mg/kg respectively) extracts of D. arborea, Sildenafil citrate (1.44 mg/kg), trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO, 20 mg/kg) and distilled water (10 ml/kg) were orally administered for 28 days to streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Glycaemia, body and reproductive organ masses, fertility parameters, total proteins, antioxidant enzymes activities, serum and testicular testosterone and the histology of the testes and epididymis were determined. Results revealed significant decreases in body and absolute and relative masses of testes, epididymis, seminal vesicles, prostate and vas deferens, fertility parameters, epididymal and testicular total proteins, serum and testicular testosterone levels as well as antioxidant enzymes activities. Interestingly, while having minor anti-hyperglycaemic effects, these abnormalities associated with testicular and epididymal alterations were alleviated by D. arborea especially the aqueous extract (500 mg/kg). These outcomes provided evidence of the androgenic properties of D. arborea in diabetic rats, which could be useful for a better management of sexual dysfunctions in diabetic patients.

Neoboutonia melleri var velutina Prain: in vitro and in vivo hepatoprotective effects of the aqueous stem bark extract on acute hepatitis models.

BACKGROUND: Hepatitis is a liver inflammation caused by different agents and remains a public health problem worldwide. Medicinal plants are an important source of new molecules being considered for treatment of this disease. Our work aims at evaluating the hepatoprotective properties of Neoboutonia velutina, a Cameroonian medicinal plant. METHODS: The aqueous extract has been prepared using phytochemical methods. HepG2 cells were used to assess anti-inflammatory properties of the extract at different concentrations. Acute hepatitis models (Carbon tetrachloride and Concanavalin A) were performed in mice receiving or not receiving, different extract doses by gavage. Liver injury was assessed using histology, transaminases and pro-inflammatory markers. Extract antioxidant and radical scavenging capacities were evaluated. RESULTS: The extract led to a significant decrease in pro-inflammatory cytokine expression in vitro and to a remarkable protection of mice from carbon tetrachloride-induced liver injury, as shown by a significant decrease in dose-dependent transaminases level. Upon extract treatment, inflammatory markers were significantly decreased and liver injuries were limited as well. In the Concanavalin A model, the extract displayed weak effects. CONCLUSIONS: Taking into account underlying mechanisms in both hepatitis models, we demonstrate the extract's radical scavenging capacity. Neoboutonia velutina displays a potent hepatoprotective effect mediated through radical scavenging properties.

Efficacy of Sida pilosa Retz aqueous extract against Schistosoma mansoni - induced granulomatous inflammation in the liver and the intestine of mice: histomorphometry and gastrointestinal motility evaluation.

BACKGROUND: The macerate of Sida pilosa aerial parts is used empirically for the treatment of intestinal helminthiasis. Previous studies have shown that Sida pilosa aqueous extract (SpAE) has schistosomicidal, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic activities in Schistosoma mansoni infection. This study was designed to evaluate the effect of SpAE on the granulomatous inflammation induced by S. mansoni in the liver and the intestine of mice by histomorphometry; as well as on the gastrointestinal motility. METHODS: To study the effect of SpAE on the liver and intestine histomorphometry and on the gastrointestinal motility, SpAE was administered at 200 mg/kg per os to S. mansoni-infected mice for 4 weeks. Praziquantel was used as reference drug. Prior to carrying out sacrifice, a batch of mice was subjected to gastrointestinal transit evaluation with 3% charcoal meal. After sacrifying another batch of mice, we performed histological and morphometric analyses of the liver and the ileum. We measured the following: total proteins, transaminases, malondialdehyde, nitrites, superoxide dismutase, catalase and reduced glutathione. The effect of SpAE (4, 8, 16 and 32 mg/mL) on the ileum contractile activity was evaluated either in the absence or in the presence of pharmacological blockers. RESULTS: SpAE induced a significant reduction of hepatosplenomegaly and intestine enlargement. The number of granulomas was reduced by 52.82% in the liver and 52.79% in the intestine, whereas the volume of hepatic granulomas decreased by 48.76% after SpAE treatment. SpAE also reduced (p < 0.001) the ileal muscular layer thickness. The levels of total proteins, transaminases, malondialdehyde, nitrites, superoxide dismutase, catalase and reduced glutathione were restored after treatment of infected mice with SpAE. A normalization of the gastrointestinal transit was also recorded after SpAE treatment. The effect of SpAE on intestinal motility was mediated via intracellular and extracellular calcium mobilization. CONCLUSION: Our findings provide evidence that SpAE improves granulomatous inflammation induced by S. mansoni both in the liver and in the intestine, as well as it re-establishes normal gastrointestinal transit. SpAE may be used for the development of alternative medicine against S. mansoni infection.

Bidens pilosa Ethylene acetate extract can protect against L-NAME-induced hypertension on rats.

BACKGROUND: Essential hypertension is mainly caused by endothelial dysfunction which results from nitric oxide (NO) deficiency. The present study was design to evaluate the protective effect of Bidens pilosa ethylene acetate extract (Bp) on L-NAME induced hypertension and oxidative stress in rats. METHODS: Male Wistar rats were used to induce hypertension by the administration of L-NAME (a non-pecific nitric oxide inhibitor) (50 mg/kg/day). The others groups were receiving concomitantly L-NAME plus Bp extract (75 and 150 mg/kg/day) or losartan (25 mg/kg/day). All the treatments were given orally for 4 weeks. At the end of the treatment, the hemodynamic parameters were recorded using the direct cannulation method. The effects of the extract on lipid profile, kidney and liver functions as well as oxidative stress markers were evaluated by colorimetric method. Results were expressed as the mean ± SEM. The difference between the groups was compared using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by the Duncan's post hoc test. RESULTS: Animals receiving L-NAME presented high blood pressure, normal heart rate and lipid profile as well as NO depletion, liver and kidney injuries and oxidative stress. The concomitant treatment with L-NAME and Bp or losartan succeeded to prevent the raised of blood pressure and all the other injuries without affecting the heart rate. CONCLUSION: These results confirm the antihypertensive effects of Bidens pilosa and highlight its protective properties in L-NAME model of hypertension in rat, probably due to the presence of Quercetin 3,3 '-dimethyl ether 7-0-ß-D-glucopyranoside.

Ficus sycomorus extract reversed behavioral impairment and brain oxidative stress induced by unpredictable chronic mild stress in rats.

BACKGROUND: Stress, regardless of its nature is nowadays recognized as one of the major risk factors for neuropsychiatric diseases, such as mood and anxiety disorders. The brain compared with other organs is more vulnerable to oxidative damage mainly due to its high rate of oxygen consumption, abundant lipid content, and relative insufficiency of antioxidant enzymes. Thus, the identification of neural mechanisms underlying resistance and vulnerability to stress is of crucial importance in understanding the pathophysiology of neuropsychiatric disorders and in developing new treatments, since the existing ones are for several reasons subject to increasing limitations. This study was aimed to assess the effects of hydromethanolic extract of Ficus sycomorus stem bark on depression, anxiety and memory impairment induced by unpredictable chronic mild stress (UCMS) in rats. METHODS: These effects were studied using anxiety-related behavior, depression-related behavior, anhedonia-like behavior and the Y maze task. Sucrose test was performed twice (before and after UCMS) to assess anhedonia in rats. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis of the extract were performed. The antioxidant activities of the extract were assessed using total glutathione (GSH) content and malondialdehyde (MDA) level (lipid peroxidation) in the rat temporal lobe homogenates. RESULTS: The extract of F. sycomorus in a dose of 100 mg/kg significantly increased the sucrose consumption and the swimming time which had been reduced by the unpredictable chronic mild stress (p < 0.001). The extract also significantly reduced (p < 0.01) the latency time in the novelty-suppressed feeding test. In the elevated plus-maze, the extract (100 and 200 mg/kg) significantly reduced (p < 0.01) the time and the number of entries into the closed arms. The treatment with the extracts also significantly increased alternation in the Y-maze (p < 0.01 for 100 mg/kg). The extract significantly increased the total GSH content and reduced MDA level in rat temporal lobe. For the LC-MS analysis, the major compound in the extract was a flavonoid with formula C22H28O14. CONCLUSIONS: F. sycomorus reversed the harmful effects of UCMS on mood and behaviors in rats and it possesses an antidepressant property that is at least in part mediated through the oxidative pathway.

Correction to: Ficus sycomorus extract reversed behavioral impairment and brain oxidative stress induced by unpredictable chronic mild stress in rats.

CORRECTION: After the publication of this article [1] it came to our attention that Harquin Simplice Foyet was incorrectly included as Harquin Simplice Harquin Foyet. The corrected name is included in the author list. The original article was updated.

Effects of heat stress on some reproductive parameters of male cavie (Cavia porcellus) and mitigation strategies using guava (Psidium guajava) leaves essential oil.

Climate changes, particularly the increase of temperature are among the main causes behind the decline of fertility in humans as well as animals. In this study, the effects of heat stress on some reproductive parameters of male cavies and mitigation strategies using guava leaves essential oil (GLEO) were studied. For this purpose, 40 male cavies aged 2.5-3 months and weighing between 348 and 446g were divided into 4 groups of 10 animals each and subjected to the following temperatures: Ambient temperature (20-25°C) for the control group, 35°C for group 1, 45°C for group 2 and 45°C+100µl GLEO/kg body weight, administered by gavage to animals for group 3. Exposure time of heat was 7h per day for 60 days. Results reveal that the relative weights of testes, epididymis, vas deferens and seminal vesicles were hardly affected by the temperature levels considered (P>0.05). The mass and individual sperm motility was significantly lower (P<0.05) in cavies exposed to the temperature of 35 and 45°C as compared with those which received GLEO and controls. The percentages of abnormal sperm and altered sperm DNA were higher in animals exposed to temperature of 35 and 45°C as compared with the controls. The activity of superoxide dismutase significantly increased (P<0.05) in animals exposed to temperature of 45°C and in those of 45°C and orally treated with GLEO, compared with cavies exposed to temperature of 45°C without receiving GLEO. The level of malondialdehyde was significantly increased (P<0.05) in animals exposed to temperature of 35 and 45°C, whereas the level of nitric oxide was significantly lower (P<0.05) in exposed animals as compared with controls. It was concluded that the exposure of male cavies at 35 and 45°C for 60 days induce heat stress that causes deterioration of sperm characteristics. These effects that can be mitigated by the administration of guava leaves essential oil.

Guibourtia tessmannii-induced fictive ejaculation in spinal male rat: involvement of D1, D2-like receptors.

CONTEXT: Guibourtia tessmannii (Caesalpiniaceae) is a plant traditionally used as aphrodisiac. We previously reported the pro-ejaculatory effects of the aqueous and methanol extracts of G. tesmannii in spinal male rat. However, the mechanism underlying such effects has not been elucidated. OBJECTIVE: This study characterizes the dopaminergic sub-type receptors involved in G. tesmannii-induced ejaculation in male Wistar rat. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Urethane-anesthetized spinal male rats were intravenously treated with saline solution (1 mL/kg, control); dopamine (0.1 µmol/kg, reference); aqueous or methanol extracts of G. tesmannii (20 mg/kg) in the absence or presence of haloperidol (0.26 µmol/kg), a nonspecific dopaminergic receptor antagonist, Sch23390 (0.26 µmol/kg), a specific D1-like receptor antagonist or, sulpiride (0.26 µmol/kg), a specific D2-like receptor antagonist. Electromyography of the bulbospongiosus muscles and intraseminal pressure were recorded after urethral, penile and drug stimulations. RESULTS: Urethral and penile stimulations, intravenous injection of dopamine or, aqueous and methanol extracts of G. tesmannii always triggered the expression of rhythmic contraction of the bulbospongiosus muscles with an average mean of 3.33 ± 0.43; 7.83 ± 0.85; 9.80 ± 0.86; 0.83 ± 0.54 and 2.67 ± 0.95 contractions, respectively. The intraseminal pressure was more expressed after urethral and penile stimulations (15.66 ± 1.58 and 13.60 ± 2.40 mmHg, respectively). In rats pretreated with haloperidol, Sch23390 or sulpiride, no ejaculation was recorded after intravenous injection of G. tesmannii extracts or dopamine. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Guibourtia tesmannii-induced ejaculation requires the integrity of D1 and D2-like receptors. These findings further justify the ethno-medicinal claims of G. tesmannii as an aphrodisiac.

Oxidised palm oil and sucrose induced hyperglycemia in normal rats: effects of Sclerocarya birrea stem barks aqueous extract.

BACKGROUND: Consumption of foods rich in carbohydrates and fats, result in an increase in obesity and consequently type 2 diabetes. The present study was carried out to evaluate the effects of oxidised palm oil and sucrose (SOPO +S) on some metabolic parameters and to investigate the effects of aqueous extract from barks of Sclerocarrya birrea on SOPO + S induced damages. METHODS: During 16 weeks, animals received every day a supplement of oxidised palm oil (10 %) and 10 % sucrose as drinking water). Control rat received standard diet and drinking water without sucrose. At the end of this period, animal presenting intolerance in glucose test and insensitivity to insulin were continuously feed with hypercaloric diet along with the administration of the plant extract (150 or 300 mg/kg) or glibenclamide (10 mg/kg) during three weeks. OGTT was performed; insulin sensitivity was assessed by performing insulin tolerance test and determining insulin sensitivity index (Kitt). Several parameters were evaluated including body weight, abdominal fat mass, blood glucose levels, blood pressure, serum lipid profile, and serum transaminases (ALT and AST). Oxidative parameters were measured by MDA levels, nitrites levels, SOD levels, reduced glutathione content and by enzyme activities of SOD and catalase. RESULTS: Animal receiving a supplement of oxidised palm oil and sucrose showed hyperglycaemia, glucose intolerance, insulin resistance and a significant increase in body weight and abdominal fat mass compared to normal rats. In addition, there was a significant increase of SOD in aorta and heart, nitrites in liver and kidney, malondialdehyde (MDA) in heart, liver and kidney. It was also observed a significant reduction in the activities of the SOD and catalase in liver, kidney and reduced glutathione levels in heart. Concomitant treatment of plant extract with SOPO + S brought glycaemia and blood pressure towards normal value, restored glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity. The plant extract prevent the increase or decrease in the activity of the enzyme depending to the organ, reduced MDA and nitrites levels. CONCLUSION: These results highlighted the hyperglycaemic and oxidant character of SOPO + S diet and confirm the hypoglycaemic, and antioxidant action of sclerocarya birrea aqueous extract in diabetes.

Evaluation of the antidiabetic and antioxidant properties of Morinda lucida stem bark extract in streptozotocin intoxicated rats.

The present research evaluated the antidiabetic and antioxidant properties of M. lucida stem bark (50 and 500mg/kg) and glibenclamide (25mg/kg, standard drug) in acute (Oral glucose tolerance test) and sub-acute (Streptozotocin 60mg/kg, i.p. diabetic model) administration. A group of healthy rats constituted the normal control. The sub-acute experiment lasted 28 days during which water, food intake and weight gain were measured and biochemical parameters analyzed in both plasma and erythrocytes at the end of the experiment. The chemical substances present in M. lucida bark extract were determined. In the Oral glucose tolerance test, the reduction of blood glucose level was statistically significant for both M. lucida extracts and glibenclamide. However, in the diabetic rats acute administration of 500mg/kg extract had better blood sugar lowering effect than glibenclamide, which was better than 50mg/kg extract. Streptozotocin diabetic animal model was characterized by a decrease in weight gain, erythrocyte SOD and CAT activities and an increase in water and food consumption, lipid peroxidation, cholesterol, triglycerides, plasma glucose, creatinine and urea concentrations, and transaminases activities. M. lucida extract and glibenclamide significantly prevented the alteration of these parameters, thus indicating a corrective effect on diabetes and its complications. This study justifies the traditional claim and provides a rationale for the use of M. lucida to treat diabetes. Its antioxidant properties may serve to curb oxidative stress and hence prevent the diabetic complications related to oxidative stress. Chemical substances, which may be accountable for the antidiabetic and antioxidant properties of M. lucida were detected in the aqueous extract of M. lucida bark.

Impaired T-cell-dependent protection against Leishmania major infection in HIV-positive patients is associated with worsened disease outcome.

Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) patients coinfected with HIV are known to show a more severe, prolonged course of disease; the immunological basis is not known. We now assessed clinical features, sera and skin biopsies of HIV(+) and HIV(-) patients with CL to identify drivers of increased susceptibility to Leishmania. CL lesion numbers, surface, and healing duration were significantly increased in HIV(+) as compared to HIV(-) patients (2.5, 14 and >4-fold, respectively). Patients with HIV infection exhibited lower serum Leishmania-specific IgG levels and decreased IL-6 and IL-8. Most importantly, dramatically decreased numbers of CD4(+) T cells (approximately eightfold), but not CD8(+) cells, together with fewer CXCR3(+) Th1 cells, fewer Foxp3(+) effector/regulatory T cells, and reduced levels of IFN-γ expression were found in lesional skin. Our findings suggest that compromised CD4(+) T-cell responses may be responsible for worsened disease outcome leading to defects in parasite elimination in the absence of sufficient numbers of IFN-γ-producing Th1 cells.

Schistosomicidal, hepatoprotective and antioxidant activities of the methanolic fraction from Clerodendrum umbellatum Poir leaves aqueous extract in Schistosoma mansoni infection in mice.

BACKGROUND: The intensive use of Praziquantel for the treatment of schistosomiasis has raised concerns about the possible emergence of drug-resistant schistosomes. As drug treatment is an important feature of schistosome control programs, the search for alternative drugs is therefore a priority. The aim of this study was to assess the schistosomicidal, hepatoprotective and antioxidant activities of the methanolic fraction from Clerodendrum umbellatum Poir leaves aqueous extract. METHODS: A phytochemical screening of the fraction of C. umbellatum was conducted. The fraction was administered orally and daily to Schistosoma mansoni-infected mice (BALB/c) from the 36th day post-infection for 28 days at 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg. Praziquantel (500 mg/kg) was used as reference drug. Non-infected and infected-untreated mice served as controls. All mice were sacrificed at 65th day post-infection. Body weight, liver/body and spleen/body weights, as well as worm burden, fecal egg count, liver and intestine egg load were determined. In the plasma, levels of total protein, transaminases (ALT, AST), alkaline phosphatase and total bilirubin were monitored to assess the possibility of liver damage. Malondialdehyde (MDA), catalase (CAT) and glutathione (GSH) levels were measured in the liver as biomarkers of the oxidative stress. RESULTS: The phytochemical analysis of the fraction from C. umbellatum aqueous leaves extract revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, cardiac glycosides, phenols, saponins, tannins and terpenoids. The worm burden, fecal egg count and egg load in the liver and intestine of infected mice treated with the fraction were significantly (p < 0.001) fewer than in infected-untreated mice. Only the highest-fraction dose reduced the worm and egg burdens in a similar way as praziquantel. Hepatosplenomegaly induced by S. mansoni infection was reduced by the treatment. The liver function on infected mice was ameliorate after administration of the fraction by significant reduction of ALT activity (35.43 to 45.25%) and increase of total protein level (44.79 to 70.03%). The methanolic fraction of C. umbellatum prevents the elevated MDA level induced by the infection while significant increase in catalase activity (297.09 to 438.98%) and glutathione level (58.23 to 95.88%) were observed after treatment. CONCLUSIONS: This study disclosed the schistosomicidal, hepatoprotective and antioxidant activities of the methanolic fraction from C. umbellatum leaves aqueous. These fraction's activities were similar to those of praziquantel. This fraction can be considered as a promising source for schistosomicidal agents.

Antihypertensive potential of the aqueous extract which combine leaf of Persea americana Mill. (Lauraceae), stems and leaf of Cymbopogon citratus (D.C) Stapf. (Poaceae), fruits of Citrus medical L. (Rutaceae) as well as honey in ethanol and sucrose experimental model.

BACKGROUND: The present study was designed to evaluate the effects of the aqueous extract obtained from the mixture of fresh leaf of Persea americana, stems and fresh leaf of Cymbopogon citratus, fruits of Citrus medica and honey on ethanol and sucrose induced hypertension in rats. METHODS: Rats were divided into eight groups of 6 rats each and daily treated for 5 weeks. The control group received distilled water (1 mL/kg) while rats of groups 2, 3 and 4 received ethanol 40 degrees (3 g/kg/day), 10% sucrose as drinking water and the two substances respectively. The remaining groups received in addition to sucrose and ethanol, the aqueous extract (50, 100 and 150 mg/kg) or nifedipine (10 mg/kg) respectively. Many parameters including hemodynamic, biochemical and histopathological were assessed at the end of the study. RESULTS: The concomitant consumption of ethanol and sucrose significantly (p < 0.001) increased the blood pressure and the heart rate compared to distilled water treated-rats. The levels of total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, triglycerides, atherogenic index, glucose, proteins, AST, ALT, creatinin, potassium, sodium and albumin increased while the HDL-cholesterol decreased under ethanol and sucrose feeding. Chronic ethanol and sucrose intake significantly decreased the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) as well as the contents of reduced glutathione (GSH) and nitrites whereas elevated the malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. Histological analysis revealed among other vascular congestion, inflammation, tubular clarification and thickening of the vessel wall in rats treated with alcohol and sucrose. Administration of the aqueous extract or nifedipine prevented the hemodynamic, biochemical, oxidative and histological impairments induced chronic ethanol and sucrose consumption. CONCLUSION: Current results suggest that the aqueous extract used in this study possess antihypertensive activity against ethanol and sucrose induced hypertension in rats by the improvement of biochemical and oxidative status, and by protecting liver, kidney and vascular endothelium against damages induced by chronic consumption of ethanol and sucrose.

Ejaculatory activities of Allanblackia floribunda stem bark in spinal male rats.

CONTEXT: Medicinal plants have become a great source of relief for more 70% of the population in developing countries where access to modern medicine is very limited. Some of these plants are used as aphrodisiac agents. The stem bark of Allanblackia floribunda Oliver (Clusiacea) has been used in Cameroon as an aphrodisiac. OBJECTIVE: This study was designed to assess the effects of Allanblackia floribunda aqueous and ethanol extracts and their potential mechanism on fictive ejaculation in spinal male rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Electromyographic activities of the bulbospongiosus muscles were recorded in 24 groups of spinal rats after intravenous administration of aqueous and ethanol extracts (2.5, 10, 20, 40 or 60 mg/kg) from the stem bark of A. floribunda in the presence or absence of dopamine (60 mg/kg). Furthermore, electromyographic activities of the bulbospongiosus muscles were recorded in five groups of spinal rats pre-treated orally during 8 d with extracts (150 and 300 mg/kg) in the presence of dopamine. RESULTS: Sequential treatments of rats with extracts significantly decreased the occurrence of ejaculation induced by dopamine up to 88.94% inhibition. The oral pre-treatment with both extracts significantly decreased the ejaculation induced by dopamine with the highest inhibition of 89.79%. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Two extracts of A. floribunda used in this study had inhibitory activities on ejaculation. The inhibitory effect of A. floribunda extracts on fictive ejaculation in rat may be directly mediated through dopaminergic pathways. Inhibition of ejaculation caused by these extracts could support its use in patients suffering from rapid ejaculation.

Endothelium/Nitric Oxide Mediates the Vasorelaxant and Antihypertensive Effects of the Aqueous Extract from the Stem Bark of Mammea africana Sabine (Guttiferae).

This study evaluates the vasorelaxant and antihypertensive effects of the aqueous extract from the stem bark of M. africana (AEMA). AEMA was tested in vitro on intact or endothelium-denuded rats' aorta rings precontracted with KCl or norepinephrine in absence or in presence of L-NAME or glibenclamide. The effect of a single concentration (300 µg/mL) of AEMA was also examined on the concentration-response curve of KCl. In vivo, the antihypertensive effects of AEMA (200 mg/kg/day) were evaluated in male Wistar rats treated with L-NAME (40 mg/kg/day) for 4 weeks. AEMA relaxed aorta rings precontracted with NE or KCl with respective EC50 values of 0.36 µg/mL and 197.60 µg/mL. The destruction of endothelium or pretreatment of aorta rings with L-NAME shifted the EC50 of AEMA from 0.36 µg/mL to 40.65 µg/mL and 20.20 µg/mL, respectively. The vasorelaxant activity of M. africana was significantly inhibited in presence of glibenclamide. AEMA also significantly inhibited the concentration-response curve of KCl. Administered orally, AEMA induced acute and chronic antihypertensive effects and normalized renal NO level. These results show that the vasorelaxant activity of AEMA might be mediated by the activation of the NO-cGMP-ATP-dependent potassium channels pathway and might predominantly account for its antihypertensive effect.

Amaranthus hybridus (Amaranthaceae) prevents the detrimental effects of cyclophosphamide on ovarian function in Wistar rats: An experimental study.

Background: Cyclophosphamide (CP) is an anticancer agent, but its chronic administration induces ovarian toxicity. Objective: We evaluated the effects of aqueous extract (AE) and methanol extract (ME) of Amaranthus hybridus (A. hybridus) on CP-induced ovarian toxicity in rats. Materials and Methods: 40 female Wistar rats (10 wk, 170-200 gr) were distributed into 8 groups (n = 5/each) as follows: 1) healthy control; 2) CP+distilled water (10 ml/kg/d); 3) CP+3%-tween 80 (10 mL/kg/d); 4) CP+clomiphene citrate (2 mg/kg/d); 5, 6) CP+AE of A. hybridus (55 and 110 mg/kg/d); and 7, 8) CP+ME of A. hybridus (55 and 110 mg/kg/d). After 28 days of treatment, estrus cyclicity, ovarian and uterine weights as well as estradiol levels and ovarian histology were determined. Results: CP induced ovarian toxicity after 28 days of exposure. More specifically, CP disturbed the estrus cycle, decreased ovary and uterus weights (p = 0.04), and the 17-ß estradiol level (p = 0.04), and induced severe ovarian damages. Remarkably, A. hybridus significantly increased (p = 0.03) the ovarian weight (AE and ME at all doses) and uterus weight (ME at 110 mg/kg/d), compared with the CP-treated rats. Moreover, the 17-ß estradiol level was significantly elevated (p = 0.02) in rats given clomiphene citrate and A. hybridus (AE 110 mg/kg/d; ME 55 mg/kg/d). Finally, the ovaries of rats given plant extracts had many corpus luteum and normal follicles, and no cystic follicles. Conclusion: prevented the detrimental effects of CP on ovarian function, which could support its traditional use as a fertility enhancer.

Preventive Potential of the Aqueous Extract of the Mixture of Bidens pilosa (Asteraceae) and Cymbopogon citratus (Poaceae) Aerial Parts on Hypertension Induced by a Chronic Salt and Alcohol Consumption on the Rats.

High blood pressure (HBP) is currently one of the main risk factors for cardiovascular and kidney diseases. Nowadays, populations make extensive use of alternative medicine for their health problems. Bidens pilosa (B. pilosa) and Cymbopogon citratus (C. citratus) are used individually in the traditional treatment of cardiovascular disorders. This study assessed the effects of the mixture of these two plants aqueous extract on HBP in rats. Male rats (42) were divided into 7 groups of 6 rats each. Normotensive rats received only distilled water and formed group 1. The other animals received ethanol + salt preceded by distilled water (10 mL/kg; group 2) and spironolactone (10 mg/kg; group 3); the aqueous extracts of the mixture (100 and 200 mg/kg; groups 4 and 5) isolated plants B. pilosa (200 mg/kg; group 6) and C. citratus (200 mg/kg; group 7). Animals were treated for 7 weeks during which water consumption and urine volume were assessed; then, hemodynamic parameters were recorded, and rats were sacrificed. Serum and some organs (liver, kidney, heart, and aorta) were used to evaluate biochemical parameters. Ingestion of ethanol + salt leads to a significant increase in urinary volume and water intake that were significantly prevented by the extracts from the mixture and isolated plants. Ethanol + salt solution significantly increased the blood pressure, heart rate, triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-chol), very-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-chol), atherogenic indices, liver and kidney function parameters, and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. However, the levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-chol), albumin, reduced glutathione (GSH), catalase, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity were significantly reduced. The extracts of the mixture and isolated plants significantly prevented all these variations with a more pronounced action for the lowest dose of the mixture on the lipid profile, oxidative stress, and kidney function. These observations confirm the beneficial effects of B. pilosa and C. citratus to manage hypertension.

In Vitro Cercaricidal and Schistosomicidal Activities of the Raffia Wine and Hydroethanolic Extracts of Pedilanthus tithymaloides Linn (Poit). Stem Barks.

Schistosomiasis control remains a public health concern, and there is a need to evaluate new strategies for targeting larval and adult stages of the parasite. As Pedilanthus tithymaloides is empirically used to treat schistosomiasis, it becomes essential to know its effective action scientifically. This study assessed the cercaricidal and schistosomicidal activity of P. tithymaloides stem barks raffia wine extract (RwPt) and hydroethanolic extract (HePt). Different concentrations of these extracts were tested against cercariae (31.25-1000 µg/mL) and adult worms (62.5-2000 µg/mL) of Schistosoma mansoni. Niclosamide-olamine 5% (1 µg/mL) and praziquantel (10 µg/mL) were used as pharmacological controls. Cercariae viability was determined every 30 min for 180 min, and adult worms' motor activity and viability after 24 and 48 h incubation. In addition, cytotoxicity and phytochemical analysis were performed. HePt was lethal to cercariae and adult worms with LC50 of 73.91 µg/mL after 60 min of incubation and 731.17 µg/mL after 48 h of incubation, respectively. Furthermore, a significant reduction of 94.44% in motor activity was observed in surviving worms at the concentration of 2000 µg/mL. RwPt was less effective on S. mansoni cercariae with an LC50 of 617.86 µg/mL after 180 min and on adult worms with a mortality rate of 9.83% at 2000 µg/mL for 48 h incubation. Both extracts showed a weak cytotoxicity profile with an IC50 of 983.50 µg/mL for HePt and more than 1000 µg/mL for RwPt. The LC-MS analysis of HePt allowed the detection of two annotated diterpenoids. Based on the selectivity index, the hydroethanolic extract of P. tithymaloides stem barks disclosed an intense cercaricidal activity and a moderate schistosomicidal effect with low cytotoxicity. These findings may support the potential use of Pedilanthus tithymaloides as a natural product or a source of natural-derived compounds for interrupting schistosomiasis transmission.