Curcumin mitigates the sleep-deprivation impacts on rat hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus.

Introduction: The paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVH) is an important efferent system that relays the circadian rhythm of sleep and stress information to the periphery. Chronic REM sleep deprivation (CSD) is thought to damage this system. We evaluated the effects of CSD after 21 days on the spatial arrangement of PVH in male rats and the anti-apoptotic effects of curcumin on cell loss in sleep-deprived rats. Methods: The rats received 1 mL of 100 mg/kg/day of curcumin in 3 groups: the CSD (through a modified multiple platform apparatus, 18 h/day), grid-floor control, and cage-control along with the same set of matched groups which received 1 mL PBS. In the grid-floor control group, as a control for CSD, animals were placed on stainless-steel-mesh grids positioned upon the CSD apparatus and then allowed to sustain the chance to sleep. After 21 days, their brains were removed for stereological estimations, Voronoi tessellation, and TUNEL assay. In an unbiased stereological approach, Cavalieri's principle and an optical disector were used for estimating the volume and total cell number of the PVH, respectively. The Voronoi tessellation was measured using Image J software. Results: Significant reductions (P < 0.05) in the PVH volume and cell number, along with an increase in dead neurons, were found in CSD animals. The spatial pattern of two types of PVH neurons (parvocellular and magnocellular) showed random distributions after CSD, whereas curcumin not only increased the volume and neuronal number but also retrieved the spatial distribution to a regular one. Conclusions: CSD decreased the volume and altered the spatial arrangement of the neurons in PVH by increasing apoptosis and decreasing the cell number. However, oral use of curcumin could protect PVH from these changes.

The Ameliorative Impact of Cichorium intybus L. Distillate on Reproductive Parameters in Male Mice.

Background: Cichorium intybus L. (Kasni) distillate is widely used in Eastern countries as a safe herbal drink to improve male fertility. However, the potential effects on fertility parameters and possible adverse effects have not been studied experimentally. The current study aims to evaluate the impact of Cichorium intybus L. distillate (CD) on male mice fertility. Methods: In the present study (Shiraz, Iran), 30 male mice (30-35 g) were divided into three groups. 10 mice received distilled water (DW) for five weeks as the control group. Another 10 mice, named group CD1/2, received chicory distillate of 1/2 dilution, and the other 10 mice received chicory distillate of CD1/4 dilution as CD1/4 group, ad libitum for three weeks, and they received DW for two weeks afterward. Experimental mice were sacrificed on day 35, and sperm analysis and sera collection were performed for further investigation of FSH, LH, testosterone, and some liver and kidney function parameters. We used the left testis for stereological analysis, and the right one was excised to investigate the expression of the androgen receptor gene. For statistical analysis using SPSS 18.0, mean±SD values were analyzed by one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with Dunnett's analysis as post hoc to compare between groups. In stereological investigations, the Kruskal-Wallis method was used for pairwise comparisons to compare groups. The P value was considered statistically significant at P<0.05. Results: Treatment with CD1/2 resulted in the elevation of serum FSH (P=0.002), LH (P=0.009), testosterone (P=0.034), seminiferous tubule epithelium volume (P=0.029) and length (P=0.028), and Leydig cells number (P=0.009) in comparison with the control group. Administrating CD1/2 (P=0.038) and CD1/4 (P=0.013) significantly increased sperm count compared to the control group. Conclusion: The results revealed that using chicory distillate can improve hormone levels and sperm count in male mice.

Disrupting Development: Unraveling the Interplay of Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor (AHR) and Wnt/ß-Catenin Pathways in Kidney Development Under the Influence of Environmental Pollutants.

Understanding the intricate molecular mechanisms governing aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) and Wnt/ß-Catenin pathways crosstalk is of paramount importance for elucidating normal development. We investigated the repercussions of aberrant activation of these signaling pathways on kidney development. HEK-293 cells were subjected to AHR and Wnt activators and inhibitors for 3 and 24 h. Subsequently, pregnant adult female BALB/c mice were administered treatments at gestation day 9 (GD-9), and embryos were analyzed at GD-18 using a combination of cellular, molecular, stereological, and histopathological techniques. Our results demonstrated a noteworthy escalation in oxidative stress and gene expression endpoints associated with apoptosis. Moreover, stereological analyses exhibited alterations in cortex, proximal tubule, and kidney tissue vessels volumes. Remarkably, co-treatment with 6-formylindolo [3,2-b] carbazole (FICZ) and cadmium (Cd) resulted in a significant reduction in glomerulus volume, while elevating the volumes of distal tubule, Henle loop, and connective tissue, compared to the control group. Histopathological investigations further confirmed structural changes in the loop of Henle and proximal tubule, alongside a decline in glomerular volume. Additionally, the expression levels of AHR and Ctnnb1 genes significantly increased in the Cd-treated group compared to the control group. Enhanced expression of apoptosis-related genes, including Bcl-x, Bax, and Caspase3, along with alterations in mitochondrial membrane potential and cytochrome C release, was observed. In contrast, Gsk3 gene expression was significantly decreased. Our findings robustly establish that chemical pollutants, such as Cd, disrupt the AHR and Wnt/ß-Catenin physiological roles during developmental stages by inhibiting the metabolic degradation of FICZ.

Reduced Tumor Volume and Increased Necrosis of Human Breast Tumor Xenograft in Mice Pretreated by a Cocktail of Three Specific Anti-HER2 scFvs.

PURPOSE: We aimed to assess the effects of a cocktail comprising three specific antiHER2 scFvs on breast tumor formation in a xenograft mouse model and to evaluate quantitative changes in the tumor using stereological analysis. METHODS: Three specific anti-HER2 phage antibodies were produced from a scFv-library using phage display technology. The cell binding capacities of the antibodies were assessed via FACS analysis. Soluble forms of the antibodies were prepared by infecting HB2151-E. coli cells and purified using a centrifugal ultrafiltration method. The purification process was evaluated by SDSPAGE analysis. Two forms of scFv cocktails were prepared, soluble scFv and phage-scFv cocktail, which contained an equal amount/phage of the three specific anti-HER2 antibodies. Inbred female BALB/c mice were pretreated with 5 and 20 mg/kg of the soluble scFv cocktail and 1011 phagescFv cocktail/kg. The mice were then injected with 2×106 SKBR-3 human breast cancer cells. Total tumor, inflammatory and non-inflammatory volumes were estimated using the Cavalieri principle after preparing photomicrograph slides. RESULTS: The anti-HER2 scFvs showed significantly higher binding to SKBR-3 cells compared to the isotype control. SDS-PAGE analysis confirmed the high purification of the scFvs. Stereological analysis revealed that the group pretreated with 20 mg/kg of the soluble scFv cocktail exhibited the highest reductions in total tumor volume, non-inflammatory volume, and inflammatory volume, with reductions of 73%, 78%, and 72%, respectively, compared to PBS-pretreated mice (P-value < 0.0001). The volumetric ratio of necrotic tissue to total tumor volume increased by 2.2-fold and 2- fold in the 20mg/kg of soluble scFv cocktail and phage-scFv cocktail groups, respectively, compared to the PBS-treated mice (P-value < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Pre-treatment with a 20 mg/kg anti-HER2 scFv cocktail resulted in a significant reduction in tumor volume and increased necrotic area in a human breast cancer xenograft model, indicating the remarkable anti-tumor effect of the cocktail in vivo.

Sleep deprivation induces structural changes in the adult rat testis: The protective effects of olive oil.

OBJECTIVE: Sleep deprivation (SD) is a common problem in today's stressful lifestyle and have physiological consequences, including reproductive dysfunction and infertility. As an antioxidant, olive oil may be effective in reducing testicular and spermatological damage by decreasing the production of free radicals. METHODS: This study investigated the effects of olive oil on sperm quality and testicular structure using stereological methods to assess rats with SD. RESULTS: When comparing SD group to grid floor+distilled water (GR) group, we found that the sperm count and motility, as well as the percentage of slow progressive sperm was significantly lower in SD group (p<0.05), but the percentage of immotile sperm was higher (p<0.01). However, no improvement was observed in sperm count or motility after concomitant treatment of SD group with olive oil. Stereological examinations revealed no significant change in the total volumes of the seminiferous tubules, interstitial tissue, and germinal epithelium in the study groups. Conversely, the total number of testicular cell types was significantly lower in SD group than in GR group. Although the total number of Sertoli and Leydig cells was significantly higher in the SD+olive oil group than in the untreated SD group, no significant difference in the total number of other testicular cell types was observed between the two groups. CONCLUSION: SD potentially induced structural changes in testis that affected sperm count and motility. However, olive oil only improved the total number of Sertoli and Leydig cells in the animals with SD and did not improve sperm count and motility.

The effects of curcumin and sertraline on stress-induced changes in the stomach tissues of rats.

Exposure to stressors can cause functional disorders and structural damage to the stomach. Sertraline (SER) is an antidepressant and curcumin (CUR) is a natural compound with many properties. The current study aimed to investigate the impacts of stress, SER, and CUR on the stomach tissue using stereological methods. In total, 24 male and 24 female Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four groups. In the control group, the rats were not exposed to stress. However, the animals in stress, SER and, CUR groups were exposed to daily stress and were orally fed with distilled water, SER (10 mg/kg/day), and CUR (100 mg/kg/day), respectively. The volume, surface area, and number of nerve, parietal, and chief cells were evaluated by stereological methods. Results showed that stress increased the stomach and its mucosa and submucosa volumes, while it decreased the surface area of the mucosa. Furthermore, this disorder increased the number of neurons in the submucosa and myenteric plexuses while it decreased the number of parietal and chief cells. However, treating stressed rats with SER or CUR could prevent these changes. The results showed that the consumption of SER or CUR could be used as a preventive or adjunctive treatment for stressful situations.

Resveratrol ameliorates bisphenol A-induced testicular toxicity in adult male rats: a stereological and functional study.

BACKGROUND: Bisphenol A (BPA) is one of the most widely used synthetic chemicals worldwide. BPA as an endocrine disruptor affects the reproductive systems through estrogenic and antiandrogenic proprieties. Resveratrol (RES) as a natural polyphenol and potent antioxidant exhibits protective effects against reproductive toxicity by inhibiting of oxidative stress. 48 male rats were divided into eight groups (n=6), including CONTROL, OLIVE OIL (0.5 ml/ day), Carboxy methylcellulose (CMC) (1 ml of 10 g/l), RES (100mg/kg/day), low dose of BPA (25 mg/kg/day), high dose of BPA (50 mg/kg/day), low dose of BPA + RES, and high dose of BPA + RES. All treatments were done orally per day for 56 days. At the end of the 8th week, blood samples were collected for hormone assays. Then, the sperm parameters were analyzed, and the left testis was removed for stereological study. RESULTS: We showed a significant decrease in sperm parameters in the low and high doses of BPA groups compared to control groups (P<0.05). The volume of testicular components as well as the diameter and length of seminiferous tubules significantly reduced (11-64 %), and the total number of the testicular cell types decreased (34-67 %) on average in the low and high doses of BPA groups. Moreover, serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and testosterone hormones concentration showed a significant reduction in both doses of BPA groups (P<0.01). Nonetheless, treatment with RES could ameliorate all the above-mentioned changes in the low and high doses of BPA groups (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: RES could prevent BPA-induced testicular structural changes and sperm quality via improving gonadotropin hormones and testosterone levels.

RèSUMè: CONTEXTE: Le bisphénol A (BPA) est l'un des produits chimiques synthétiques les plus utilisés dans le monde. Le BPA en tant que perturbateur endocrinien affecte le système reproducteur par le biais de ses propriétés œstrogéniques et anti-androgènes. Le resvératrol (RES), en tant que polyphénol naturel et puissant antioxydant, présente des effets protecteurs contre la toxicité sur la reproduction en inhibant le stress oxydatif. Quarante-huit rats mâles ont été divisés en huit groupes (n = 6), comprenant les groupes TÉMOIN, HUILE D'OLIVE (0,5 ml/jour), méthylcellulose Carboxyle (MCC) (1 ml de 10 g/L), RES (100 mg/kg/ jour), faible dose de 25 de BPA (25 mg/kg/jour), dose élevée de BPA (50 mg/kg/jour), faible dose de BPA + RES et dose élevée de BPA + RES. Tous les traitements ont été effectués quotidiennement par voie orale pendant 56 jours. À la fin de la 8ème semaine, des échantillons de sang ont été prélevés pour dosages hormonaux. Ensuite, les paramètres du sperme ont été analysés et le testicule gauche a été retiré pour une étude stéréologique. RéSULTATS: Nous avons montré une diminution significative des paramètres spermatiques dans les groupes traités par doses faibles et doses élevées de BPA par rapport aux groupe témoin (P<0,05). Le volume des composants testiculaires ainsi que le diamètre et la longueur des tubules séminifères ont été considérablement réduits (11-64 %) ; le nombre total des types de cellules testiculaires a diminué (34-67 %) en moyenne dans les groupes traités par doses faibles et doses élevées de BPA. De plus, la concentration sérique d'hormone folliculostimulante (FSH), lutéinisante (LH) et de testostérone a montré une réduction significative dans les groupes traités quelle que soit la dose de BPA (P<0,01). Néanmoins, le traitement par RES pourrait améliorer tous les changements mentionnés ci-dessus dans les groupes traités par doses faibles et élevées de BPA (P<0,05). CONCLUSIONS: Le RES pourrait avoir un effet positif sur les changements structurels testiculaires induits par le BPA, ainsi que la qualité du sperme, en améliorant les taux sériques d'hormones gonadotrophines et de testostérone. MOTS-CLéS: Bisphénol A Resvératrol Toxicité testiculaire Paramètres du Sperme Stéréologie.

The effects of copper sulfate on the structure and function of the rat cerebellum: A stereological and behavioral study.

Copper (Cu) is a vital trace element that acts as a cofactor of proteins and enzymes in many molecular pathways including the central nervous system. The accumulation or deficiency of copper could alter neuronal function and lead to neuronal degeneration and brain dysfunction. Intake of high levels of copper can also cause copper toxicosis that affects the brain structure and function. Despite clinical and experimental data indicating the association between abnormal copper homeostasis and brain dysfunction, the effects of copper on cerebellum have remained poorly understood. Hence, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of copper sulfate on the cerebellum via stereological and behavioral methods in rats. Male rats (Sprague-Dawley) were divided to three groups. The rats in the control group orally received distilled water, while those in the Cu groups received 1 mM (159 mg/L) or 8 mM (1272 mg/L) copper sulfate by oral gavage solved in distilled water daily for 4 weeks. Then, the rotarod performance test was recorded and the cerebellum was prepared for stereological assessments. The Cu-administered rats (1 and 8 mM) exhibited a significant reduction in the total volumes of the cerebellum structures. The total number of the cells in the cerebellar cortex and deep cerebellar nuclei were significantly decreased via Cu in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, the length of nerve fibers and the number of spines per nerve fiber decreased significantly in the Cu groups. These changes were correlated to the animals' motor performance impairment in the rotarod test. The findings suggested that copper toxicity induced motor performance impairments in the rats, which could be attributed to its deleterious effects on the cerebellum structure.

The Protective Effects of Coenzyme Q10 and Lisinopril Against Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiotoxicity in Rats: A Stereological and Electrocardiogram Study.

Doxorubicin (DOX) is used as an anticancer drug despite its several side effects, especially its irreversible impacts on cardiotoxicity. Coenzyme Q10 (Q10) as a powerful antioxidant and lisinopril (LIS) as an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor seem to provide protection against DOX-induced cardiotoxicity. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the cardioprotective effects of Q10 and LIS against DOX-induced cardiotoxicity in rats. Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned into the control, LIS, Q10, DOX, DOX + LIS, and DOX + Q10 groups. On day 21, ECG was recorded and the right ventricle was dissected for evaluation of catalase activity and malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration. Additionally, the left ventricle and the sinoatrial (SA) node were dissected to assess the stereological parameters. The results of ECG indicated bradycardia and increase in QRS duration and QT interval in the DOX group compared to the control group. Meanwhile, the total volumes of the left ventricle, myocytes, and microvessels and the number of cardiomyocyte nuclei decreased, whereas the total volume of the connective tissue and the mean volume of cardiomyocytes increased in the DOX group. On the other hand, the SA node and the connective tissue were enlarged, while the volume of the SA node nuclei was reduced in the DOX group. Besides, catalase activity was lower and MDA concentration was higher in the DOX-treated group. Q10 could recover most stereological parameters, catalase activity, and MDA concentration. LIS also prevented some stereological parameters and ECG changes and improved catalase activity and MDA concentration in the DOX group. The findings suggested that Q10 and LIS exerted cardioprotective effects against DOX-induced cardiac toxicity.

Curcumin can prevent the loss of sinoatrial node cells in methionine-treated rats: A stereological study.

Methionine (MET) rich diets, smoking, coffee and alcohol consumption, low physical activity, and aging are related to high plasma concentrations of homocysteine, which can jeopardize the heart health. Although hyperhomocysteinemia has been considered a recognized risk factor for cardiac dysrhythmia, the structural changes of the conductive system, including Sinoatrial (SA) node of the heart involved in the disorder, have not been completely clarified. Curcumin is the main component of turmeric and has shown some cardioprotective effects. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of curcumin on the structural changes of the SA node in L-MET-treated rats. These alterations were evaluated by means of stereological techniques, namely cavalieri principle for volume estimation and optical disector counting technique for cell counting. Both techniques used two-dimensional images for obtaining three-dimensional parameters. The rats were divided into four groups, including control, MET-treated (1 g/kg/day), curcumin-treated, (100 mg/kg/day), and MET + curcumin. The treatments were performed for 28 days. On the final day, SA nodes were dissected out for stereological investigation. Compared to the control rats, the volume of SA node, total volume of grape-like cell clusters, and number of SA node cells were respectively decreased by 42%, 34%, and 37% in the MET-treated group (p < 0.04). However, collagen density remained constant in all the study groups. Furthermore, treatment with curcumin could protect the SA node from cellular decline in the MET + curcumin group (p < 0.01). It can be concluded that curcumin could prevent the structural changes of the SA node in the rats treated with methionine.

Effect of Selenium on Quantitative Structural Changes in Dexamethasone-Induced Immunodeficiency Rat Models.

Background: One of the major indices of immunodeficiency is lymphoid organ atrophy. Some trace elements are candidates for the treatment of this defect. These conditions may induce structural changes in the sub-components of lymphoid organs. Therefore, this study evaluated the effect of selenium on volumetric changes in dexamethasone (DEX)-induced lymphoid organ atrophy in an animal model. Methods: This study was conducted at Histomorphometry and Stereology Research Centre, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran, in September 2016 to September 2017. Thirty-two male rats were divided into four groups: Group I; control (normal saline, 0.5 mL/kg, intraperitoneally), Group II; DEX (0.4 mg/kg; intraperitoneally), Group III; selenium plus DEX (similar to Group II and Group IV), and Group IV; selenium (0.1 mg/kg; orally). At the end of the experiment, the rats' thymus, spleen, and lymph nodes were removed, processed, and stained by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E). The volume and volume density of theses organs were estimated by stereology. The results were analyzed using the Mann-Whitney U-test and the Kruskal-Wallis test. Results: The volume of the thymus as well as its cortex and medulla; the volume of the spleen as well as the volume density of its white pulp, periarterial lymphatic sheath zone, and follicles; and the volume of the lymph nodes as well as their inner (P=0.001) and outer (P=0.007) cortices showed a significant reduction in the DEX-treated animals in comparison with the controls. In the DEX plus selenium-treated animals, maximum effects were observed on the increment in the thymic cortex (P=0.001), the outer cortex of the lymph nodes (P=0.012), and the splenic follicles (P=0.018) in comparison with the DEX group. There was no significant difference between the animals receiving selenium treatment and the controls in terms of lymphoid organs. Conclusion: Selenium may improve lymphoid organ structures in an immunodeficiency rat model but has no effect on normal lymphoid tissues.

Local Tranexamic Acid for Local Hemostasis in an Animal Liver Injury Model.

BACKGROUND: Hyperfibrinolysis is a state of increased clot resolution often seen in trauma patients with ongoing hemorrhage. Tranexamic acid (TXA) inhibits fibrinolysis preventing clot resolution affecting hemorrhage continuation and is used by intravenous administration. AIMS: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the local tranexamic acid application for hemostatic control in an experimental animal liver injury model. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: This study was an experimental prospective treatment study to check the local TXA effects on liver injury. This study was approved by the Ethics Committee. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty adult male Sprague-Dawley white rats were equally randomized to two groups after a standardized liver injury was conducted under anesthesia. One group were "liver-packed" with gauze (TXA [-]) and the other group with gauze soaked in TXA (TXA [+]). Bleeding from the injured middle liver lobe was measured at 2 and 15 min, and at 48h second-look surgery, with euthanasia conducted at 14 days. The liver was sent for histopathological and stereological analysis. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS AND RESULTS: There was no difference in bleeding at 2 or 15 min after packing; however, larger amount of free blood at 48 h in the TXA (-) group was noticed. Five animals in the TXA (-) were alive at 14 days compared to eight animals in the TXA (+) group. Significantly larger volume density of fibrosis, granulation tissue, and amorphous tissue were seen in the TXA (+) group compared to the TXA (-) group at the stereological analysis. CONCLUSION: Local TXA application on the injured liver surface might offer better hemostatic control than packing alone. Further studies are mandated before the clinical application of our findings.

The effect of zinc sulfate on penile corpus spongiosum after hypospadias repair in rats: A stereological study.

Hypospadias repair involves correcting urethra defects and improving the wound healing process. Zinc has been well accepted as an effective agent in wound healing. This study aimed to investigate the effect of zinc on corpus spongiosum after experimental hypospadias in rats. The animals were divided into three groups. The control group rats underwent general anesthesia, but did not receive any surgeries and treatments. The second and third groups underwent surgeries and respectively received Distilled Water (DW, 2 ml) and zinc sulfate solution (2 ml, containing 4 mg zinc sulfate) by gavages twice a day for 14 days. Stereological methods were used to quantify the corpus spongiosum tissue. The volumes of corpus spongiosum, spongy tissue, urethral lumens, urethral epithelium, and collagen bundles and the number of fibroblasts were respectively amplified by 28%, 40%, 36%, 48%, 40%, and 29% in the surgery + zinc sulfate group in comparison to the surgery + DW group (p < 0.02). It can be concluded that consumption of 4 mg/day zinc sulfate for 14 days could improve the healing of hypospadias through increasing the population of fibroblasts, producing collagen bundles, and building a wider lumen and more epithelized urethra.

Curcumin prevents neuronal loss and structural changes in the superior cervical (sympathetic) ganglion induced by chronic sleep deprivation, in the rat model.

BACKGROUND: In modern societies, sleep deprivation is a serious health problem. This problem could be induced by a variety of reasons, including lifestyle habits or neurological disorders. Chronic sleep deprivation (CSD) could have complex biological consequences, such as changes in neural autonomic control, increased oxidative stress, and inflammatory responses. The superior cervical ganglion (SCG) is an important sympathetic component of the autonomic nervous system. CSD can lead to a wide range of neurological consequences in SCG, which mainly supply innervations to circadian system and other structures. As the active component of Curcuma longa, curcumin possesses many therapeutic properties; including neuroprotective. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of CSD on the SCG histomorphometrical changes and the protective effect of curcumin in preventing these changes. METHODS: Thirty-six male rats were randomly assigned to the control, curcumin, CSD, CSD + curcumin, grid floor control, and grid floor + curcumin groups. The CSD was induced by a modified multiple platform apparatus for 21 days and animals were sacrificed at the end of CSD or treatment, and their SCGs removed for stereological and TUNEL evaluations and also spatial arrangement of neurons in this structure. RESULTS: Concerning stereological findings, CSD significantly reduced the volume of SCG and its total number of neurons and satellite glial cells in comparison with the control animals (P < 0.05). Treatment of CSD with curcumin prevented these decreases. Furthermore, TUNEL evaluation showed significant apoptosis in the SCG cells in the CSD group, and treatment with curcumin significantly decreased this apoptosis (P < 0.01). This decrease in apoptosis was observed in all control groups that received curcumin. CSD also changed the spatial arrangement of ganglionic neurons into a random pattern, whereas treatment with curcumin preserved its regular pattern. CONCLUSIONS: CSD could potentially induce neuronal loss and structural changes including random spatial distribution in the SCG neurons. Deleterious effects of sleep deprivation could be prevented by the oral administration of curcumin. Furthermore, the consumption of curcumin in a healthy person might lead to a reduction of cell death.

Stereological study of the placental structure in abortion-prone mice model (CBA/J×DBA/2J).

Recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) is an important reproductive health issue defined as the loss of two or more consecutive pregnancies before the 20th week of gestation, affecting 2-5% of couples. This study aimed to evaluate the volume, number of cells, and length of the vessels in the placenta in normal and abortion-prone (AP) pregnant mice on gestational day (gd) 13.5. Fetal and placental tissues of female CBA/J mated DBA/2J (AP group) and BALB/c (normal pregnant group) were collected and prepared for stereological assessments on gd13.5. The volumes of the placenta and its main layers decidua basalis (Db), junctional zone (Jz), and labyrinth zone (Lz) were investigated. The number of spongiotrophoblast cells, glycogen cells, giant cells, trophoblast cells, lymphocytes, and neutrophils were estimated as well. The AP group showed a reduction in the volume of the placenta (48.7%) and its components. Moreover, the number of spongiotrophoblast cells (66.7%), glycogen cells (76.2%), giant cells (73.3%), and trophoblast cells (81.4%) was decreased in AP compared to normal pregnant (NP) mice. Also, in AP group recognized a 10-fold increase in the number of lymphocytes and a four-fold increase in the number of neutrophils in comparison to the NP group (p < 0.05). Activation of different immune cell types might induce systemic inflammation at the feto-maternal interface, resulting in impaired placenta formation and abortion.

Protection by pure and genistein fortified extra virgin olive oil, canola oil, and rice bran oil against acetic acid-induced ulcerative colitis in rats.

Genistein is a major isoflavone with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities and hydrophobic features. To increase its bioavailability, researchers supplemented genistein with dietary oils. The present study aims to compare the effectiveness of genistein supplementation with water solution or oils and find the best possible dietary oil for fortification. A total of 135 male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to nine groups, including one control group and eight acetic acid-induced colitis groups. The rats in the intervention groups were treated with 5 ml per kg body weight of oral pure and genistein fortified forms of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), canola oil (CaO), and rice bran oil (RBO); the Genistein group (G) received 100 mg per kg body weight of genistein in aqueous solution orally. The colitis and control groups did not receive any treatment. The levels of colonic MDA (malondialdehyde), MPO (myeloperoxidase) activity, and IL-1ß (interleukin-1ß) were evaluated and a stereological analysis of colonic tissues was performed. All of the dietary oils (EVOO, CaO, and RBO) were effective at ameliorating the rats' oxidative and inflammatory status (p < 0.05); however, EVOO (with or without genistein) prescription resulted in slightly better results, especially with regard to the inflammatory profile. Additionally, delivering genistein via an oil vehicle was more efficient at reducing MDA formation, MPO activity, and IL-1ß concentration than genistein in aqueous solution. The quantitative analysis of colonic tissue was consistent with the biochemical analysis. Our findings suggest that the oral administration of EVOO, canola oil, and rice bran oil can attenuate the elevated IL-1ß levels and oxidative damage in induced colitis. Moreover, genistein fortified oils, especially EVOO, showed more beneficial effects in decreasing these markers in comparison with the pure oils or genistein (aqueous solution).

Comparison of the effects of pentoxifylline, simvastatin, tamoxifen, and losartan on cavernous bodies after penile fracture in rats: a stereological study.

Penile fracture (PF) is described as a rupture and fibrosis of the cavernous bodies. This study aimed to collect quantitative data on the impacts of pentoxifylline, simvastatin, tamoxifen, and losartan on cavernous body structure after PF. The rats were divided into six groups. The control group received anesthesia and incision without actual PF. The other groups (second to sixth) underwent PF induction in addition to administration of distilled water, pentoxifylline (200 mg/kg/day), simvastatin (40 mg/kg/day), tamoxifen (10 mg/kg/day), and losartan (20 mg/kg/day) for 8 weeks. The volumes of cavernous bodies, collagen bundles, and vessels and number of fibroblasts were increased significantly in the PF group in comparison to the control rats (p < 0.01), indicating a fibrotic process. Moreover, the mean volume of the cavernous bodies decreased in the groups with PF that received pentoxifylline, simvastatin, tamoxifen, or losartan when compared with the PF group. However, the volumes of the collagen bundles and vessels as well as the population of fibroblasts remained at the control level or even lower in PF plus pentoxifylline, simvastatin, tamoxifen, and losartan groups. This indicated the anti-fibrotic effects of the four drugs. It can be concluded that pentoxifylline, simvastatin, tamoxifen, and losartan could reduce fibrosis activities by minimizing the formation of collagen bundles and vessels as well as decreasing the population of fibroblasts 8 weeks after PF. Yet, losartan brought about a better outcome compared with the other chemicals.

Curcumin prevents neuronal loss and structural changes in the superior cervical (sympathetic) ganglion induced by chronic sleep deprivation, in the rat model

BACKGROUND: In modern societies, sleep deprivation is a serious health problem. This problem could be induced by a variety of reasons, including lifestyle habits or neurological disorders. Chronic sleep deprivation (CSD) could have complex biological consequences, such as changes in neural autonomic control, increased oxidative stress, and inflammatory responses. The superior cervical ganglion (SCG) is an important sympathetic component of the autonomic nervous system. CSD can lead to a wide range of neurological consequences in SCG, which mainly supply innervations to circadian system and other structures. As the active component of Curcuma longa, curcumin possesses many therapeutic properties; including neuroprotective. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of CSD on the SCG histomorphometrical changes and the protective effect of curcumin in preventing these changes. METHODS: Thirty-six male rats were randomly assigned to the control, curcumin, CSD, CSD + curcumin, grid floor control, and grid floor + curcumin groups. The CSD was induced by a modified multiple platform apparatus for 21 days and animals were sacrificed at the end of CSD or treatment, and their SCGs removed for stereological and TUNEL evaluations and also spatial arrangement of neurons in this structure. RESULTS: Concerning stereological findings, CSD significantly reduced the volume of SCG and its total number of neurons and satellite glial cells in comparison with the control animals ( P < 0.05). Treatment of CSD with curcumin prevented these decreases. Furthermore, TUNEL evaluation showed significant apoptosis in the SCG cells in the CSD group, and treatment with curcumin significantly decreased this apoptosis ( P < 0.01). This decrease in apoptosis was observed in all control groups that received curcumin. CSD also changed the spatial arrangement of ganglionic neurons into a random pattern, whereas treatment with curcumin preserved its regular pattern. CONCLUSIONS: CSD could potentially induce neuronal loss and structural changes including random spatial distribution in the SCG neurons. Deleterious effects of sleep deprivation could be prevented by the oral administration of curcumin. Furthermore, the consumption of curcumin in a healthy person might lead to a reduction of cell death.

Cardioprotective effects of curcumin and carvacrol in doxorubicin-treated rats: Stereological study.

Doxorubicin (DOX) is a cardiotoxic drug. To reduce the harmful effects of DOX, two plant-derived components, including curcumin (CUR) and carvacrol (CAR), were considered. This study aimed to assess the protective effects of CUR and CAR on DOX-induced cardiotoxicity using physiological and stereological evaluations. Male rats were randomly allocated to six groups. Group's I-VI received phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), CUR (100 mg kg-1 day-1), CAR (50 mg kg-1 day-1), DOX (4 mg kg-1 week-1), DOX-CUR, and DOX-CAR, respectively. On day 24, plasma troponin I and ECG were analyzed and the left ventricle underwent stereological assessment. The results showed a fivefold increase in troponin I in the DOX-treated animals compared to the PBS ones. Additionally, heart rate and QRS amplitude, respectively, reduced by 18% and 31% and QT interval and QRS duration, respectively, increased by 41% and 24% in the DOX group in comparison with the PBS rats (p < .05). The total volume of the myocardium and vessels and the number of cardiomyocyte nuclei also, respectively, decreased by 30%, 45%, and 43% in the DOX group compared to the PBS animals (atrophy of the ventricular tissues, p < .01). Besides, the mean volumes of the connective tissue and cardiomyocytes, respectively, increased by 46% and 52% in the DOX group (p < .01). In the DOX-CUR and DOX-CAR groups, the changes were prevented extensively in comparison with the DOX group (p < .01). Co-administration of CUR or CAR and doxorubicin for 24 days could improve the heart function and structural changes.

The Impact of Echium Amoenum Distillate on Naturally Boosting Fertility: Potential Ameliorative Role in Male Mice Reproductive Parameters.

BACKGROUND: Iranian borage, Echium amoenum, is believed to improve reproduction according to folk medicine. Although E. amoenum distillate known as "Aragh Gav-zaban" is widely consumed as a safe and natural remedy, its possible effects on fertility have not yet been scientifically examined. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of borage distillate (BD) on reproductive parameters of male mice. METHODS: In this experimental study, 30 adult male Mus musculus mice (30-35 g) were equally divided into three groups. The control group received distilled water (DW) for five weeks and the other two groups, BD1/2 and BD1/4, received borage distillate of 1/2 dilution (150±2.5 ml/kg/day) and 1/4 dilution (75±1.25 ml/kg/day), respectively, ad libitum for three weeks and DW for 2 weeks. On the day 35, mice were sacrificed, sperm analysis was performed, and sera were collected to evaluate gonadotropins, testosterone, and toxicity parameters. The left testis was excised for stereological study and the right testis was used to evaluate androgen receptor (AR) gene expression. RESULTS: The administration of BD1/2 significantly increased serum FSH (P=0.004), LH (P=0.025), testosterone (P=0.014), the percentage of motile (P=0.011); slow progressive (P=0.001), coiled tail (P<0.001) sperms, and the number of Leydig cells (P=0.008) compared to the control group. Treatment with BD1/4 significantly increased sperm count (P=0.044) and motile sperms percentage (P=0.040) compared to the control group too. The administration of BD revealed no significant effects on toxicity parameters and AR gene expression. CONCLUSION: The findings of the present study showed that the consumption of borage distillate, as a safe herbal remedy, improves hormonal and sperm parameters in male mice.