Remobilization with whole-body vibration improves functionality, histomorphometric parameters, and AQP1 expression in the soleus muscle of Wistar rats.

Background: Whole-body vibration (WBV) is used to enhance physical performance in sports and rehabilitation. The present study analyzed the effects of remobilization with WBV on the soleus muscle of Wistar rats. Methods: Twenty-eight animals were separated into four experimental groups (n = 7): CON (control); IM (immobilized); FR (immobilization and free remobilization); and WBV (immobilization and remobilization with WBV). The immobilization of the pelvic limb was carried out according to the standard protocol using a plaster cast for 15 days. For remobilization with WBV, a Frequency of 60 Hz was applied for 10 min, five days a week, for two weeks. After the remobilization period, the animals were euthanized, and the right soleus muscle was dissected followed by processing for histomorphometric analysis and immunolocalization of Aquaporin 1 (AQP1). Results: We observed a reduced larger diameter in IM compared to CON, with restored values in WBV. For the estimation of connective tissue, a significant increase was observed in the immobilized groups, while a reduction was noted in the remobilized groups. AQP1 expression decreased significantly in IM and increased in WBV. Conclusion: Immobilization caused morphofunctional damage to the soleus muscle, and remobilization with WBV is efficient and offers advantages over free remobilization.

Maternal periodontitis potentiates monosodium glutamate-obesity damage on Wistar offspring's fast-glycolytic muscle.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of magnifying the damage caused by obesity induced by monosodium glutamate, using a model of maternal periodontitis, on the structure of the anterior tibialis muscle of the offspring. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-four female Wistar rats were divided into four experimental groups: control (n = 6), obese (n = 6), control with periodontitis (n = 6) and obese with periodontitis (n = 6). At 78 days of life, the rats were mated with males without any experimental intervention. The offspring of these rats (n = 1/L), at 120 days of life, were weighed and measured, then euthanized. Plasma was collected for analysis of cytokines IL-6, IL-10, IL-17 and TNF-α. Adipose tissues were collected and weighed, and the anterior tibial muscle was designated for histomorphological analyses (n = 6/group). RESULTS: Monosodium glutamate offspring showed significant muscle changes, such as a reduction in the size of fibres and neuromuscular junctions, and an increase in the nucleus and capillaries. However, all these changes were more expressed in monosodium glutamate-obese with periodontitis offspring. CONCLUSION: This leads us to suggest a magnifying effect promoted by periodontitis to the damage already well described by monosodium glutamate-obesity, determined by low-intensity inflammation, causing greater muscle damage.

Articular mobilization promotes improvement in functional and inflammatory parameters in a gouty arthritis model.

OBJECTIVE: Gouty arthritis is characterized by painful inflammation due to the deposition of monosodium urate crystals in joint tissues. Despite available treatments, many patients experience ineffective management and adverse effects. This study evaluated a manual therapy protocol involving passive joint mobilization at the peak of inflammation in a gouty arthritis model using functional and inflammatory parameters. METHODS: Twenty male Wistar rats, 12 weeks old, were divided into two groups (n=10 each): Gouty Arthritis and Control Groups, which were further subdivided into treated and untreated groups (n=5 each). The Gouty Arthritis Group received intraarticular knee injection of 50µL of monosodium urate crystals, while the Control Group received 50µL of phosphate buffered saline. The treatment involved a 9-minutes session of grade III joint mobilization (according to Maitland). Nociception, grip strength, and edema were evaluated before induction (EV0), 7 hours after assessment (EV1), immediately after treatment (EV2), and 1 hour after treatment (EV3). The animals were euthanized, and synovial fluid was collected to analyze leukocyte migration. RESULTS: The model mimicked the signs of the Gouty Arthritis Group, with a decrease in the threshold of nociception and strength and an increase in edema and leukocyte count. The mobilization protocol significantly increased the nociceptive threshold and grip strength and reduced edema; however, it did not reverse the increase in leukocyte count. CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that mobilization promotes analgesia and may modulate the inflammatory process owing to reduced edema and subtle attenuation of cell migration, which contributes to strength gain.

Resistance exercise and low-level laser therapy improves grip strength and morphological aspects in the ankle joint of Wistar rats with experimental arthritis.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an inflammatory disease mainly affecting synovial joints. Photobiomodulation through low-level laser therapy (LLLT) and resistance exercise may improve the inflammatory process. Therefore, we analyzed the effects of resistance exercise, LLLT, and the combination of both treatments on hind paw grip strength and ankle joint histomorphometric aspects of Wistar rats subjected to experimental RA. A total of 64 male Wistar rats were divided into eight groups: control, control LLLT, control exercise, control LLLT and exercise, arthritis, arthritis LLLT, arthritis exercise, and arthritis LLLT and exercise groups. The experimental RA was induced by a complete Freund's adjuvant injection into the knee joint cavity. Climbing exercises and LLLT (660 nm; 5 J/cm2 per point) were performed as the treatment. In addition, muscle strength was evaluated using the grip strength test, and morphometric evaluations were performed on the ankle joint. Generalized mixed models and multivariate analysis of variance tests were used for statistical analysis. Statistical significance was set at a p-value of .05. Arthritis LLLT, exercise, and LLLT and exercise had positive effects on grip strength between the groups (F[7.56] = 5.8, p < .004) and within the groups (F[4.3] = 9.9, p < .002) throughout the evaluations. Morphometry revealed degenerative lesions in the ankle joint as subintima with angiogenesis, inflammatory cells, flocculated articular cartilage, chondrocyte disorganization, and pannus in the arthritis group (p < .001). The treated groups exhibited morphological characteristics similar to those of the control group. LLLT and resistance exercise restored muscle strength and morphological aspects of the ankle joint in rats with experimentally induced RA.

Experimental model of periodontitis and rheumatoid arthritis potentiates the deleterious effects on functional capacity, leukocyte migration, synovial and periodontal tissues in Wistar rats.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate whether ligature-induced periodontitis and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) potentiate the deleterious effects on functional capacity, periodontal and synovial tissues, leukocyte migration, and interleukin 17 (IL-17) levels, and to investigate the repercussions of single Freund's Complete Adjuvant (FCA) injection associated with periodontitis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifty-one male Wistar rats were randomised into six groups: control (CG, n = 8), RA (RAG, n = 9), periodontitis (PG, n = 9), periodontitis and RA (PRAG, n = 9), periodontitis and intradermal injection (PIDG, n = 9), and periodontitis and intra-articular injection (PIAG, n = 7). The animals underwent ligature placement and one or two injections with FCA to induce RA. Motor disability, nociceptive threshold, joint edema, and muscle strength were assessed, and the animals were euthanized on day 30. Synovial fluid, hemimandibles, and knee joints were collected. RESULTS: PRAG showed no reduction of edema or improvement of muscle strength, whereas it showed most significant changes in leukocyte migration, morphological analyses of the synovial membrane (SM), and radiographic and histometric analyses of the jaw. The PIAG showed some alterations, though not permanent. CONCLUSION: Ligature-induced periodontitis and RA induced by two FCA injections accentuated the deleterious effects on functional capacity, leukocyte migration, synovial and periodontal tissues.

Articular mobilization promotes improvement in functional and inflammatory parameters in a gouty arthritis model

ABSTRACT Objective Gouty arthritis is characterized by painful inflammation due to the deposition of monosodium urate crystals in joint tissues. Despite available treatments, many patients experience ineffective management and adverse effects. This study evaluated a manual therapy protocol involving passive joint mobilization at the peak of inflammation in a gouty arthritis model using functional and inflammatory parameters. Methods Twenty male Wistar rats, 12 weeks old, were divided into two groups (n=10 each): Gouty Arthritis and Control Groups, which were further subdivided into treated and untreated groups (n=5 each). The Gouty Arthritis Group received intraarticular knee injection of 50µL of monosodium urate crystals, while the Control Group received 50µL of phosphate buffered saline. The treatment involved a 9-minutes session of grade III joint mobilization (according to Maitland). Nociception, grip strength, and edema were evaluated before induction (EV0), 7 hours after assessment (EV1), immediately after treatment (EV2), and 1 hour after treatment (EV3). The animals were euthanized, and synovial fluid was collected to analyze leukocyte migration. Results The model mimicked the signs of the Gouty Arthritis Group, with a decrease in the threshold of nociception and strength and an increase in edema and leukocyte count. The mobilization protocol significantly increased the nociceptive threshold and grip strength and reduced edema; however, it did not reverse the increase in leukocyte count. Conclusion Our results suggest that mobilization promotes analgesia and may modulate the inflammatory process owing to reduced edema and subtle attenuation of cell migration, which contributes to strength gain.

Morphometric aspects of the articular cartilage of rats treated with low-level laser therapy and exercise in a rheumatoid arthritis model

INTRODUCTION: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is classified as an autoimmune, chronic disease affecting diarthrodial joints and periarticular structures. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate whether low-intensity laser treatment (LLLT) and/or exercise reduce the deleterious effects of tissue in a rheumatoid arthritis model. METHODS: 128 rats were divided into two inflammatory periods: acute (7 days) and chronic (28 days) and subdivided into control, injury and treatment. The protocol with Freund's Complete Adjuvant was used in two inoculations, one intradermal and one intraarticular in the tibiofemoral joint, the control animals received saline solution. For treatment, LLLT 660 nm, 5 J/cm² was used in the sensitized joint and climbing exercise in stairways with an overload of 100 grams. After the experimental period, the animals were euthanized and the joints were prepared for morphometric analysis of the total thickness, superficial, deep, and cellular density of the articular cartilage. Generalized Linear Models with Sidak post-test were chosen. RESULTS: The control group was found to be different from the lesion group with greater joint cartilage thickness, andthe animals treated with exercise alone increased the joint cartilage compared to thecontrol group. CONCLUSION: The animals treated with laser association and exercise showed improvement in the morphometric aspects of the articular cartilage.

Analysis of Wistar Rats Submitted to a Gout Model, Treated with Double Cryotherapy Protocol.

Gout arthritis commonly affects joint regions by deposition of crystals, promoting functional damage mainly during periods of exacerbation. Cryotherapy is a commonly used resource to contain inflammatory processes, however, its use during a gout crisis is not yet well understood. Therefore, the objective was to evaluate the parameters of Wistar rats submitted to an experimental gout model and treated with dual cryotherapy protocol. Twenty-one male Wistar rats were used, separated into three groups: control group (CG), lesion group (LG), and lesion + cryotherapy group (LCG). Gout model induction was through intra-articular injection, with urate crystal solution, in the right knee and cryoimmersion treatment was performed for 20 minutes at a temperature of 5° ± 2°C. Seven evaluations and two treatment moments were performed, and the following parameters were analyzed: joint edema, grip strength, joint disability, motor function, and leukocyte migration through synovial lavage. In the statistical analysis we used SPSS 20.0 with Generalized Linear Models, with least significant difference posttest, always with 5% significance level. The treatment reduced edema, promoted strength recovery, and was effective in reducing total leukocytes in the synovial fluid. No difference was observed between the injured groups for joint disability and motor function. Cryotherapy promoted edema reduction and increased pelvic limb grip strength in Wistar rats during the acute period.

Study of muscle fibers of the extensor digitorium longus and soleus muscles of C57BL/6 females exposed to glyphosate during pregnancy and lactation.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the morphology and morphometry of the muscles extensor digitorium longus and soleus of C57BL/6 females, who were exposed to glyphosate during pregnancy and lactation. METHODS: Twelve female mice from the C57BL/6 lineage were used. After detection of pregnancy, they were divided into a Control Group, which received only water, and a Glyphosate Group, which received water with 0.5% glyphosate during pregnancy and lactation. Both groups received ad libitum standard diet. After weaning, the females were euthanized and weighed; naso-anal length was measured, and fats were collected and weighed. The muscles extensor digitorium longus and soleus were collected, and their length and weight were measured. Then, the muscles were fixed in Methacarn to perform the histological study of muscle fibers. RESULTS: Glyphosate Group presented lower weight gain during pregnancy and also lower final body weight and naso-anal length; however, the other body parameters evaluated did not present a significant difference in relation to the Control Group. Significant differences were also not observed in the analysis of muscle fibers and connective tissue. CONCLUSION: Exposure to 0.5% glyphosate during pregnancy and lactation resulted in lower weight gain during pregnancy, final weight, and naso-anal length. Despite not directly altering the morphology of muscle tissue, these results may indicate enough exposure to interfere with animal metabolism.

Exercício resistido promove reparo no musculoesquelético em modelo experimental de artrite reumatoide / Resisted exercise promotes repair in musculoskeletal structure in experimental model of rheumatoid arthritis

Distúrbios decorrentes da artrite reumatoide (AR) resultam em incapacitação funcional, com reflexos econômicos e sociais aos sistemas de saúde. Uma alternativa terapêutica que tem sido proposta é a atividade física na modalidade resistida. O presente estudo analisou os efeitos do exercício resistido de subida em escada (ERSE) na histomorfologia do músculo extensor longo dos dedos (EDL) de ratos Wistar, em modelo experimental de AR. Ratos machos (n=20) foram distribuídos aleatoriamente em quatro grupos. A lesão da AR foi induzida por administração intra-articular de Adjuvante Completo de Freund (CFA). Os resultados revelaram que a AR alterou a histomorfometria das fibras do EDL e que o ERSE promoveu reparo muscular, sugerindo sua eficiência na restauração da funcionalidade muscular. Ainda, o ERSE pode ser uma opção de tratamento voltado à melhoria na qualidade de vida dos portadores de AR.

Disorders from rheumatoid arthritis (RA) result in functional disability, with economic and social impacts on health systems. A therapeutic alternative that has been proposed is physical activity in the resisted modality. Current study analyzed the effects of resistance exercise on stairs (ERSE) on the histomorphology of the extensor digitorum longus muscle (EDL) of Wistar rats in an experimental model of RA. Male rats (n=20) were randomly assigned to four groups. RA injury was induced by intra-articular administration of Freund's Complete Adjuvant (CFA). Results revealed that RA altered the histomorphometry of EDL fibers and that ERSE promoted muscle repair, suggesting its efficiency in restoring muscle functionality. Furthermore, ERSE may be a treatment option to improve the life quality of people with RA.

Study of muscle fibers of the extensor digitorium longus and soleus muscles of C57BL/6 females exposed to glyphosate during pregnancy and lactation / Estudo das fibras musculares dos músculos extensor longo dos dedos e sóleo de fêmeas C57BL/6 expostas ao glifosato durante a prenhez e a lactação

ABSTRACT Objective To evaluate the morphology and morphometry of the muscles extensor digitorium longus and soleus of C57BL/6 females, who were exposed to glyphosate during pregnancy and lactation. Methods Twelve female mice from the C57BL/6 lineage were used. After detection of pregnancy, they were divided into a Control Group, which received only water, and a Glyphosate Group, which received water with 0.5% glyphosate during pregnancy and lactation. Both groups received ad libitum standard diet. After weaning, the females were euthanized and weighed; naso-anal length was measured, and fats were collected and weighed. The muscles extensor digitorium longus and soleus were collected, and their length and weight were measured. Then, the muscles were fixed in Methacarn to perform the histological study of muscle fibers. Results Glyphosate Group presented lower weight gain during pregnancy and also lower final body weight and naso-anal length; however, the other body parameters evaluated did not present a significant difference in relation to the Control Group. Significant differences were also not observed in the analysis of muscle fibers and connective tissue. Conclusion Exposure to 0.5% glyphosate during pregnancy and lactation resulted in lower weight gain during pregnancy, final weight, and naso-anal length. Despite not directly altering the morphology of muscle tissue, these results may indicate enough exposure to interfere with animal metabolism.

RESUMO Objetivo Avaliar a morfologia e a morfometria dos músculos extensor longo dos dedos e sóleo de fêmeas C57BL/6 expostas ao glifosato durante a prenhez e lactação. Métodos Foram utilizados 12 camundongos fêmeas da linhagem C57BL/6. Após detecção da prenhez, foram separadas em Grupo Controle, que recebeu somente água, e Grupo Glifosato, que recebeu água com 0,5% de glifosato durante a prenhez e lactação. Ambos os grupos receberam dieta padrão ad libitum. Após o desmame, as fêmeas foram eutanasiadas e pesadas; o comprimento nasoanal foi mensurado, e as gorduras foram coletadas e pesadas. Os músculos extensor longo dos dedos e sóleo foram coletados, e seu comprimento e peso foram mensurados. Em seguida, os músculos foram fixados em Methacarn para a realização do estudo histológico das fibras musculares. Resultados O Grupo Glifosato apresentou menor ganho de peso durante a prenhez e também menor peso corporal final e comprimento nasoanal, entretanto os demais parâmetros corporais avaliados não apresentaram diferença significativa em relação ao Grupo Controle. Na análise das fibras musculares e do tecido conjuntivo, também não foram observadas diferenças significativas. Conclusão A exposição a 0,5% de glifosato durante a prenhez e lactação resultou em menor ganho de peso na gestação, peso final e comprimento nasoanal, o que pode indicar que, apesar de não alterar a morfologia do tecido muscular diretamente, a exposição foi suficiente para interferir no metabolismo dos animais.

Short-term effects of whole-body vibration on the soleus of ooforectomized rats: Histomorphometric analysis and oxidative stress in an animal model.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of mechanical vibration on the histomorphometry and oxidative stress of oophorectomized rats. METHOD: Seventy-two Wistar rats were randomized to Pseudoophorectomy (P) and Oophorectomy (O) and subdivided into untreated animals and euthanized after four (P4 and O4) and eight (P8 and O8) weeks and animals treated during four (PT4 and OT4) and eight (PT8 and OT8) weeks. The treatment consisted of use of whole-body vibration for 10 min, three times a week. After euthanasia, the soleus muscle was collected. The general morphological analysis was performed in the right soleus muscle and then the cross-sectional area, the largest and the smallest diameter of the muscle fiber in 100 fibers per muscle, also the nuclei and capillary/fiber ratios, and percentage of connective tissue were measured. The left soleous was used for oxidative stress analysis. RESULTS: PT4 presented higher values in cross-sectional area than P4 and PT8, while O8 was lower than O4, P8 and OT8; for the fiber diameters, the oophorectomized animals had lower values than the pseudo-oophorectomized animals and the treatments values higher than the ones that had no treatment. In oxidative stress, O8 and OT8 presented higher lipoperoxidation, without any alterations to the activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase and cholinesterase. CONCLUSION: Whole-body vibration induced muscle hypertrophy in the pseudo-oophorectomized rats after four weeks, as well as being able to reverse the changes caused by the surgery in eight weeks in that variable.

Comparação de diferentes comprimentos de onda do laser de baixa potência no sóleo de ratos Wistar após lesão nervosa / Comparación entre diferentes longitudes de onda de láser de baja potencia en el sóleo de ratas Wistar tras lesión nerviosa / Comparison of different low-level laser therapy wavelengths in the soleus of Wistar rats after nerve injury

RESUMO Os músculos esqueléticos podem ser afetados por lesões do sistema nervoso periférico, levando a fraqueza e atrofia muscular. Na tentativa de recuperar a funcionalidade dos músculos, existem vários recursos terapêuticos utilizados, dentre os quais o laser de baixa potência (LBP). Este estudo comparou o efeito do LBP em dois comprimentos de onda (660 nm e 830 nm), em características morfológicas do tecido muscular após axonotmese de nervos isquiáticos de ratos Wistar. Para tanto, foram utilizados 32 ratos Wistar, divididos em quatro grupos, sendo G1 (controle), G2 (lesão), G3 (lesão e tratamento com LBP de 660 nm) e G4 (lesão e tratamento com LBP de 830 nm). Os animais de G2, G3 e G4 foram submetidos à lesão do nervo isquiático e, três dias após a lesão, G3 e G4 realizaram tratamento com LBP de 660 nm e 830 nm, respectivamente. Após o tratamento, todos os animais foram eutanasiados e os músculos sóleos coletados para confecção das lâminas histológicas, visando a realização de análises morfológicas do tecido. Constatou-se que os animais submetidos à lesão sofreram alterações morfológicas na fibra, resultando em sua atrofia. Foi percebido também que o LBP com comprimento de onda de 830 nm apresentou ligeiros sinais de recuperação das características morfométricas analisadas.

RESUMEN Las lesiones en el sistema nervioso periférico pueden afectar los músculos esqueléticos y provocar debilidad y atrofia muscular. Para recuperar la funcionalidad de los músculos, se utilizan varios recursos terapéuticos, entre los cuales el láser de baja potencia (LBP). Este estudio comparó el efecto del LBP en dos longitudes de onda (660 nm y 830 nm) sobre las características morfológicas del tejido muscular después de la axonotmesis de los nervios ciáticos en ratas Wistar. Para ello, se utilizaron 32 ratas Wistar, divididas en cuatro grupos: G1 (control), G2 (lesión), G3 (lesión y tratamiento con LBP de 660 nm) y G4 (lesión y tratamiento con LBP de 830 nm). Los animales de G2, G3 y G4 se sometieron a lesión del nervio ciático y, tres días después de la lesión, el G3 y G4 se sometieron al tratamiento con LBP de 660 nm y 830 nm, respectivamente. Después del tratamiento, todos los animales fueron sacrificados y se recogieron los músculos sóleos para la preparación de placas histológicas, con el fin de realizar análisis morfológicos del tejido. Se encontró que los animales sometidos a lesión sufrieron cambios morfológicos en la fibra, lo que resultó en atrofia. También se observó que el LBP con la longitud de onda de 830 nm presentó leves signos de recuperación de las características morfométricas analizadas.

ABSTRACT Skeletal muscles may be affected by peripheral nervous system injuries, leading to muscle weakness and atrophy. Several therapeutic resources may be used in the attempt to recover the functionality of muscles, such as low-level laser therapy (LLLT). This study compared the effect of LLLT of two wavelengths (660 nm and 830 nm) on morphological characteristics of muscle tissue after axonotmesis of ischiatic nerves of Wistar rats. A total of 32 Wistar rats were divided into four groups: G1 (control), G2 (injury), G3 (injury and treatment with 660 nm LLLT) and G4 (injury and treatment with 830 nm LLLT). G2, G3, and G4 animals were submitted to sciatic nerve damage and, three days after the injury, G3 and G4 were treated with LLLT of 660 nm and 830 nm, respectively. After the treatment, all animals were euthanized, and the soles muscles were collected to perform morphological analyzes of the tissue using histological slides. We verified that animals submitted to the lesion underwent morphological changes in the fiber, resulting in their atrophy. We also noticed that LLLT with a wavelength of 830 nm presented slight signs of recovery of the morphometric characteristics analyzed.

Morphological effects of whole-body vibration on remobilization of the tibialis anterior muscle of Wistar rats.

Therapeutic immobilization is a common treatment for the locomotor system; however, it causes loss of muscle due to disuse, leading to protein degradation and generating atrophy of muscle cells, ultimately changing functionality. In this sense, it is important for remobilization to be initiated early and performed with appropriate therapeutic strategies that enable tissue and functional recovery. One method of remobilization is physical exercise, among which whole body vibration (WBV) has been highlighted and mainly applied in people with reduced mobility. However, there are gaps on the morphological effects WBV has on muscle tissue, so in this study we analyzed the histomorphometry of the tibialis anterior muscle (TA) of Wistar rats remobilized using WBV. For the experiment, 32 male Wistar rats were used and divided into four groups (n = 8/group). Groups consisted of: control (CG), immobilized (IG), immobilized and remobilized freely (FG), and immobilized and remobilized with WBV (WG). After the experimental period, the TA was collected and processed for analysis in light microscopy. When compared to the control group, significant morphological changes were observed, which characterize muscle atrophy and reduction of all histomorphometric parameters of the TA of the immobilized animals. Remobilized animals showed improvement in all parameters, and the WBV was not different from the free remobilization, except for the reduction of central nuclei, which can be related to acceleration of the process of tissue regeneration. Thus, we can conclude that the WBV can have an impact on the acceleration of the muscle regenerative process, and may be beneficial in people with reduced mobility.

Evaluation of nociception induced by whole-body vibration remobilization in Wistar rats / Avaliação da nocicepção induzida pela remobilização com vibração de corpo inteiro em ratos Wistar

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The vibrating platform can attenuate the deleterious effects of immobilization related to muscle atrophy. However, there is still a gap regarding the effect of this modality on hyperalgesia related to immobilization. The objective of this study was to analyze the effect of remobilization with whole-body vibration on the nociception of Wistar rats. METHODS: Sixteen rats were randomly distributed into two groups: the FRG group - immobilization and free remobilization and the VPRG - immobilization and remobilization with the vibrating platform. For remobilization with the vibrating platform, the frequency of 60Hz for 10 minutes, five days a week for two weeks was used. The nociception was evaluated on the right paw by a digital analgesiometer, before and at the end of the immobilization, and after two weeks of remobilization. RESULTS: There were differences between evaluations but not between groups, indicating that immobilization reduced the nociceptive threshold and free remobilization, and the remobilization associated with vibration improved the nociceptive threshold compared to the post-immobilization moment. However, they were not able to return to the initial parameters. CONCLUSION: Joint immobilization reduced the nociceptive threshold; however, two weeks of whole-body vibration remobilization were not able to revert the threshold in the immobilized groups.

RESUMO JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: A plataforma vibratória pode atenuar os efeitos deletérios da imobilização relacionados à atrofia muscular, contudo, ainda há uma lacuna com relação ao efeito desta modalidade na hiperalgesia relacionada ao imobilismo. Assim, o objetivo deste estudo foi analisar o efeito da remobilização com plataforma vibratória sobre a nocicepção de ratos Wistar. MÉTODOS: Dezesseis ratos foram distribuídos aleatoriamente no grupo GRL - imobilização e remobilização livre, e no grupo GRPV - imobilização e remobilização com plataforma vibratória. Para a remobilização com plataforma vibratória foi utilizada a frequência de 60Hz, durante 10 minutos, cinco dias por semana, durante duas semanas. A nocicepção foi avaliada na pata direita, por meio de um analgesímetro digital, antes e ao final da imobilização, e após duas semanas de remobilização. RESULTADOS: Houve diferenças entre as avaliações, mas não entre os grupos, indicando que a imobilização reduziu o limiar nociceptivo, e a remobilização livre e associada à vibração melhoraram o limiar nociceptivo comparados com o momento pós-imobilização, no entanto, não foram capazes de retornar aos parâmetros iniciais. CONCLUSÃO: A imobilização articular reduziu o limiar nociceptivo. No entanto, duas semanas de remobilização com a vibração de corpo inteiro não foram capazes de reverter o limiar nos grupos imobilizados.

Low-Level Laser Effect on Peripheral Sciatic Regeneration Under the Systemic Inflammatory Condition of Periodontal Disease.

Introduction: Periodontal disease (PD) is an inflammatory condition, which leads to tooth loss and promotes a systemic inflammatory state that can aggravate the nerve degeneration. As laser therapy may stimulate regeneration, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of the low-level laser (LLL) on peripheral nerve regeneration under the systemic inflammatory condition of PD. Methods: Thirry-two male rats were used, distributed in 4 groups: nerve injury (NIG); periodontal disease with nerve injury (PDNI); nerve injury and treatment (TNIG); periodontal disease with nerve injury and treatment (PDNIT). On the 7th day of the experiment, the animals had ligatures placed around the lower first molars. On the 22nd day, they underwent peripheral nerve damage, and on the 25th day, the LLL treatment was initiated, performed for two weeks. The sciatic functional index (SFI) was evaluated with subsequent euthanasia of all the animals on the 37th day of the experiment. The sciatic nerve was collected for morphological and oxidative stress analysis and the hemi jaws for radiographic analysis. Results: Regarding the SFI, there was no difference among the groups in the first evaluation (EV) pre-injury; as for theEV2, after injury, all the groups presented a decrease in these values, which remained in post-treatment. For the morphology of the PDNI, nerve tissue presented larger diameter fibers, whereas, for NIT and PDNIT, fibers had smaller diameters with endoneurial organization. When it comes to the antioxidant system, there was an increase in protein concentration, higher superoxide activity, and decreased glutathione transferase activity in the treated groups. Catalase and cholinesterase did not differ between the groups, and lipoperoxidation (LPO) increased in the PD groups. For the mandible radiographic analysis, it was possible to verify the induction of PD. Conclusion: As for the used parameters, the low-level laser was not effective in increasing the nociceptive threshold, but it contributed to the regeneration of nerve fibers, although the inflammation was still present in the site. However, the treatment was effective in protecting cells against oxidative damage due to increased SOD and increased protein, although the decrease in GST demonstrates the inhibition of this stage of the antioxidant system.

Low-level laser therapy in periarticular morphological aspects of the knee of Wistar rats in rheumatoid arthritis model / Laser de baixa intensidade nos aspectos morfológicos periarticulares do joelho de ratos Wistar em modelo de artrite reumatoide

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The deleterious effects of rheumatoid arthritis on periarticular tissues have not yet been fully elucidated. Therefore, the search for treatments that can modulate the inflammatory profile and tissue remodeling is pertinent. The present study evaluated the effects of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) on the morphology of periarticular tissues and synovial membrane of rats in a rheumatoid arthritis model. METHODS: Sixty-four male rats were divided into acute (7 days) and chronic (28 days) inflammatory periods, with four groups (n=8) each, being: CG (control group), LG (lesion group), CLaG (laser control group) and LLaG (laser lesion group). The animals of the lesion groups received two inoculations of Freund's Complete Adjuvant at a concentration of 50µL, the first at the base of the tail, and the second at the right knee. The animals in the control groups were injected with isotonic sodium chloride solution. The ClaG and LLaG were treated with 660nm LBI, 5J/cm2 in the right knee. After the experimental period, the animals were euthanized, and the knees were processed for light microscopy. RESULTS: The CG and CLaG morphological analysis had normal aspects. The LG showed synovitis, femur, and tibia with changes in the periosteum, with inflammatory cells and bone modifications. In the LLaG, the synovial membrane showed signs of improvement. Bone tissue in the chronic period showed morphological aspects, denoting tissue remodeling. CONCLUSION: The experimental model was efficient in simulating inflammatory tissue events, and the low-level laser therapy showed beneficial effects on the morphology of the periarticular tissues.

RESUMO JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: Os efeitos deletérios da artrite reumatoide nos tecidos periarticulares ainda não estão totalmente elucidados, sendo pertinente a busca por tratamentos que possam modular o perfil inflamatório e a remodelação tecidual. O presente estudo avaliou os efeitos do laser de baixa intensidade (LBI) na morfologia dos tecidos periarticulares e membrana sinovial de ratos submetidos à um modelo de artrite reumatoide. MÉTODOS: Para tanto, 64 ratos machos foram divididos em períodos inflamatórios agudo (7 dias) e crônico (28 dias), com 4 grupos (n=8) cada, sendo: GC (grupo controle), GL (grupo lesão), GCLa (grupo controle laser) e GLLa (grupo lesão laser). Os animais dos grupos lesão foram submetidos a duas inoculações de Adjuvante Completo de Freund na concentração de 50µL, sendo a primeira na base da cauda e a segunda no joelho direito. Os animais do grupo controle foram submetidos a injeções com solução isotônica de cloreto de sódio. Os grupos GCla e GLLa foram tratados com LBI 660nm, pontual no joelho direito, 5J/ cm2. Após o período experimental, os animais foram eutanasiados e os joelhos processados para análises em microscopia de luz. RESULTADOS: Na análise morfológica, GC e GCLa apresentaram aspectos normais. O GL apresentou sinovite, fêmur e tíbia com alterações no periósteo, com células inflamatórias e modificações ósseas. A membrana sinovial mostrou sinais de melhora no GLLa. No período crônico, o tecido ósseo apresentou aspectos morfológicos, denotando remodelação tecidual. CONCLUSÃO: O modelo experimental foi eficiente em simular os eventos inflamatórios teciduais, e o laser de baixa intensidade apresentou efeitos benéficos sobre a morfologia dos tecidos periarticulares.

Physical exercise and low-level laser therapy on the nociception and leukocyte migration of Wistar rats submitted to a model of rheumatoid arthritis.

Rheumatoid arthritis denotes hyperplasia and intense inflammatory process. Treatment involves exercise protocols and use of resources such as low-level laser therapy (LLLT) to modulate the inflammatory process and maintain physical capacity. The objective was to investigate whether treatment with LLLT and exercise modulates the inflammatory process and peripheral functionality. Sample is composed of 128 male rats, separated into three groups, control, treated and untreated, in the acute and chronic period of the disease with 64 animals in each group, divided into 8 subgroups with n = 8. The animals were immunized with injection at the base of the tail and 7 days after intra-articular injection with complete Freund adjuvant (CFA) for lesion groups, and saline solution for the controls. Joint disability was evaluated by PET (paw elevation time) and joint edema and treated with LLLT and/or resisted stair climbing exercise. Normality Shapiro-Wilk test, ANOVA mixed for the functional analyses, and ANOVA one-way for the variables of cellular differentiation, with Bonferroni post hoc, p = 5% were used. For the evaluations of joint disability and nociception, there was a significant difference between the evaluations, the groups, and the interaction groups-evaluations. The treated groups showed recovery of functionality; it is still verified that laser therapy increased the nociceptive threshold of the chronic inflammatory period, and the exercise reflected in significant functional improvement and modulation of the inflammatory process both in the acute and chronic periods. LLLT, resistance exercise, or a combination of treatments had a positive effect on the modulation of the inflammatory process, reducing the migration of leukocytes, in addition to helping the return of peripheral functionality by reducing joint disability in a model of rheumatoid arthritis induced by CFA in rats.

Sericin as treatment of obesity: morphophysiological effects in obese mice fed with high-fat diet.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of sericin extracted from silkworm Bombyx mori cocoon on morphophysiological parameters in mice with obesity induced by high-fat diet. METHODS: Male C57Bl6 mice aged 9 weeks were allocated to one of two groups - Control and Obese, and fed a standard or high-fat diet for 10 weeks, respectively. Mice were then further subdivided into four groups with seven mice each, as follows: Control, Control-Sericin, Obese, and Obese-Sericin. The standard or high fat diet was given for 4 more weeks; sericin (1,000mg/kg body weight) was given orally to mice in the Control-Sericin and Obese-Sericin Groups during this period. Weight gain, food intake, fecal weight, fecal lipid content, gut motility and glucose tolerance were monitored. At the end of experimental period, plasma was collected for biochemical analysis. Samples of white adipose tissue, liver and jejunum were collected and processed for light microscopy analysis; liver fragments were used for lipid content determination. RESULTS: Obese mice experienced significantly greater weight gain and fat accumulation and had higher total cholesterol and glucose levels compared to controls. Retroperitoneal and periepididymal adipocyte hypertrophy, development of hepatic steatosis, increased cholesterol and triglyceride levels and morphometric changes in the jejunal wall were observed. CONCLUSION: Physiological changes induced by obesity were not fully reverted by sericin; however, sericin treatment restored jejunal morphometry and increased lipid excretion in feces in obese mice, suggesting potential anti-obesity effects.

Sericin as treatment of obesity: morphophysiological effects in obese mice fed with high-fat diet / Sericina como tratamento da obesidade: efeitos morfofisiológicos de camundongos obesos por dieta hiperlipídica

ABSTRACT Objective To investigate the effects of sericin extracted from silkworm Bombyx mori cocoon on morphophysiological parameters in mice with obesity induced by high-fat diet. Methods Male C57Bl6 mice aged 9 weeks were allocated to one of two groups - Control and Obese, and fed a standard or high-fat diet for 10 weeks, respectively. Mice were then further subdivided into four groups with seven mice each, as follows: Control, Control-Sericin, Obese, and Obese-Sericin. The standard or high fat diet was given for 4 more weeks; sericin (1,000mg/kg body weight) was given orally to mice in the Control-Sericin and Obese-Sericin Groups during this period. Weight gain, food intake, fecal weight, fecal lipid content, gut motility and glucose tolerance were monitored. At the end of experimental period, plasma was collected for biochemical analysis. Samples of white adipose tissue, liver and jejunum were collected and processed for light microscopy analysis; liver fragments were used for lipid content determination. Results Obese mice experienced significantly greater weight gain and fat accumulation and had higher total cholesterol and glucose levels compared to controls. Retroperitoneal and periepididymal adipocyte hypertrophy, development of hepatic steatosis, increased cholesterol and triglyceride levels and morphometric changes in the jejunal wall were observed. Conclusion Physiological changes induced by obesity were not fully reverted by sericin; however, sericin treatment restored jejunal morphometry and increased lipid excretion in feces in obese mice, suggesting potential anti-obesity effects.

RESUMO Objetivo Investigar os efeitos da sericina extraída de casulos de Bombyx mori na morfofisiologia de camundongos com obesidade induzida por dieta hiperlipídica. Métodos Camundongos machos C57Bl6, com 9 semanas de idade, foram distribuídos em Grupos Controle e Obeso, que receberam ração padrão para roedores ou dieta hiperlipídica por 10 semanas, respectivamente. Posteriormente, os animais foram redistribuídos em quatro grupos, com sete animais cada: Controle, Controle-Sericina, Obeso e Obeso-Sericina. Os animais permaneceram recebendo ração padrão ou hiperlipídica por 4 semanas, período no qual a sericina foi administrada oralmente na dose de 1.000mg/kg de massa corporal aos Grupos Controle-Sericina e Obeso-Sericina. Parâmetros fisiológicos, como ganho de peso, consumo alimentar, peso das fezes em análise de lipídios fecais, motilidade intestinal e tolerância à glicose foram monitorados. Ao término do experimento, o plasma foi coletado para dosagens bioquímicas e fragmentos de tecido adiposo branco; fígado e jejuno foram processados para análises histológicas, e amostras hepáticas foram usadas para determinação lipídica. Resultados Camundongos obesos apresentaram ganho de peso e acúmulo de gordura significativamente maior que os controles, aumento do colesterol total e glicemia. Houve hipertrofia dos adipócitos retroperitoneais e periepididimais, instalação de esteatose e aumento do colesterol e triglicerídeos hepáticos, bem como alteração morfométrica da parede jejunal. Conclusão O tratamento com sericina não reverteu todas as alterações fisiológicas promovidas pela obesidade, mas restaurou a morfometria jejunal e aumentou a quantidade de lipídios eliminados nas fezes dos camundongos obesos, apresentando-se como potencial tratamento para a obesidade.