Evaluation of Serum Biochemical Parameters, Structural Changes, Immunohistochemistry and Parasite Load in the Urinary System of Dogs Infected Naturally by Leishmania infantum.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the histopathological changes in the urinary system and their correlation with serum biochemical parameters, parasite load and immunodetection of amastigotes in 30 dogs infected naturally by Leishmania infantum. The major histological changes were glomerulonephritis and interstitial nephritis. Serum biochemistry demonstrated that the dogs had progressive loss of renal function. L. infantum amastigotes were detected immunohistochemically in all parts of the urinary system, except the ureters. There was a correlation between parasite load, severity of histopathological changes and immunodetection of the parasites, but parasite load was not correlated with the serum biochemical parameters evaluated.

Effect of pentoxifylline on the regeneration of rat testicular germ cells after heat shock

High temperature is an important factor for reproduction and can induce testicular degeneration. Pentoxifylline is a methylxanthine phosphodiesterase inhibitor with anti - inflammatory and anti - apoptotic properties. Considering the protective propert ies of pentoxifylline and the harmful effects of heat, the present study aimed to use pentoxifylline to reduce the damage induced by heat to the testis. Adult mal e Wistar rats were exposed to testicular heat shock (43ºC for 15 min) , treated with 50 or 100 mg/ k g of pentoxifylline and evaluated at 3, 7, 15, 30 and 60 days after heat shock. Pentoxifylline treatment did not change testicular weight, histomorphometrical parameters or plasma testosterone concentration. However, pentoxifylline inhibited germ cell apoptosis and reduced the severity of pathological lesions at 30 and 60 days after testicular heat shock. In conclusion, pentoxifylline treatment seem ed to inhibit pro - inflammatory and apoptotic mechanisms triggered by testicular heat shock, improving sper matogenesis regeneration.