Treatment of colitis by oral negatively charged nanostructured curcumin in rats.

PURPOSE: To examine the effects of a negatively charged nanostructured curcumin microemulsion in experimental ulcerative colitis (UC) in rats. METHODS: Four percent acetic acid was used to induce UC. The animals were treated for seven days and randomly assigned to four groups: normal control (NC), colitis/normal saline (COL/NS), colitis/curcumin (COL/CUR), and colitis/mesalazine (COL/MES). The nanostructured curcumin was formulated with a negative zeta potential (-16.70 ± 1.66 mV). Dosage of the pro-inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin 1-ß (IL-1ß), interleukin 6 (IL-6), and antioxidant enzymes (catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase), macro and microscopic evaluation of the colon tissue were analyzed. RESULTS: The COL/CUR group had a higher level of antioxidant enzymes compared to the COL/MESgroup. The levels of TNF-α, IL-1ß and IL-6 were significantly lower in the colonic tissue of the COL/CUR group rats, when compared to the COL/NS and COL/MES groups (p < 0.001). The presence of ulcers in the colonic mucosa in rats of the COL/NSgroup was significantly higher than in the COL/MES group (p < 0.001). In the NC and COL/CUR groups, there were no ulcers in the colonic mucosa. CONCLUSIONS: The nanostructured microemulsion of curcumin, used orally, positively influenced the results of the treatment of UC in rats. The data also suggests that nanostructured curcumin with negative zeta potential is a promising phytopharmaceutical oral delivery system for UC therapy. Further research needs to be done to better understand the mechanisms of the negatively charged nanostructured curcumin microemulsion in UC therapy.

Effect of the Ileum and Colon on Liver Regeneration.

PURPOSE: The colon and ileum play significant roles on liver physiology. Studies about simultaneous hepatectomy and colectomy or enterectomy are scarce and controversial. We investigated and compared the effects of ileum and colon resection on liver regeneration. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty four Wistar rats were allocated in group I-(sham), group II-70% hepatectomy; group III-70% hepatectomy + ileal resection, and group IV-70% hepatectomy + partial colectomy. On the sixth day, serum hepatic enzymes, albumin, hepatocyte growth-factor (HGF) and transforming growth factor-alpha (TGF-α) were measured. The hepatic regeneration rate was estimated. Ki-67 immunohistochemical analysis was done in remnant liver. RESULTS: Hepatic enzymes levels were significantly higher in group III rats comparing to the other groups (p < 0.001). In group IV, the levels were significantly lower than in groups II and III (p < 0.001). Albuminemia was significantly lower in group III rats comparing with the other groups (p < 0.001). Albuminemia was not different comparing groups I and IV (p > 0.05). Cytokines HGF and TGF-α levels in group IV were significantly higher than in the other groups (p < 0.001). Liver regeneration rate was higher group IV than in groups II and III, and the difference was statistically significant (p = 0.002). The hepatocytes expression of Ki-67 was significantly higher in the remnant liver of group IV than in group III (p = 0.002). There was no difference in Ki-67 expression between groups II and IV (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Ileum and colon resection have different effects on liver regeneration. Colon resection positively influences liver regeneration, while ileum resection negatively influences the regenerative process, in a rat model.

Diagnostic accuracy of 18F-FDG-PET in abdominal sepsis in rats.

PURPOSE: The objective of this study was to investigate the accuracy of 18F-FDG-PET in the diagnosis of multibacterial abdominal sepsis by cecum ligation and puncture (CLP) in rats. METHODS: Adult Wistar rats ( Rattus norvegicus ), weighing 227±35g, were allocated into a sepsis group by CLP (n=10) and sham group (n=10). 18F-FDG-PET using microPET was performed on all rats after 24 hours. RESULTS: All animals survived for postoperative 24h. The abdomen/liver ratio of the standardized uptake value (SUV) percentage was significantly higher in the sepsis group than in the sham (p=0.004). The ROC curve showed an accuracy of 18F-FDG-PET to detect abdominal sepsis of 88.9% (p=0.001), sensitivity of 90% and specificity of 88.9%. When a cut-off point of 79% of the ratio between the SUV on the abdominal region and liver was established, the sensitivity was 90%, specificity of 88.9%; positive and negative predictive values of 90.0% and 88.9%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The diagnostic accuracy of 18F-FDG-PET in rats with abdominal sepsis was significantly high. It was also demonstrated the predictive ability of the abdomen/liver SUV ratio to diagnose abdominal sepsis. These findings may have implications for the clinical setting, locating septic foci with PETscan.

Diagnostic accuracy of 18F-FDG-PET in abdominal sepsis in rats

Abstract Purpose The objective of this study was to investigate the accuracy of 18F-FDG-PET in the diagnosis of multibacterial abdominal sepsis by cecum ligation and puncture (CLP) in rats. Methods Adult Wistar rats ( Rattus norvegicus ), weighing 227±35g, were allocated into a sepsis group by CLP (n=10) and sham group (n=10). 18F-FDG-PET using microPET was performed on all rats after 24 hours. Results All animals survived for postoperative 24h. The abdomen/liver ratio of the standardized uptake value (SUV) percentage was significantly higher in the sepsis group than in the sham (p=0.004). The ROC curve showed an accuracy of 18F-FDG-PET to detect abdominal sepsis of 88.9% (p=0.001), sensitivity of 90% and specificity of 88.9%. When a cut-off point of 79% of the ratio between the SUV on the abdominal region and liver was established, the sensitivity was 90%, specificity of 88.9%; positive and negative predictive values of 90.0% and 88.9%, respectively. Conclusions The diagnostic accuracy of 18F-FDG-PET in rats with abdominal sepsis was significantly high. It was also demonstrated the predictive ability of the abdomen/liver SUV ratio to diagnose abdominal sepsis. These findings may have implications for the clinical setting, locating septic foci with PETscan.

Effect of Arrabidaea chica extract against chemically induced breast cancer in animal model.

PURPOSE: To examine the effects of Arrabidaa chica (Bignoniacea) extract, a native plant of the Amazon known as crajiru, on a 7,12-dimethyl-1,2-benzanthracene (DMBA)-induced breast cancer model in Wistar rats. METHODS: We compared the response of breast cancer to the oral administration of A. chica extract (ACE) for 16 weeks, associated or not with vincristine. Groups: normal control; DMBA (50mg/kg v.o,) without treatment; DMBA+ACE (300 mg/kg); DMBA+vincristine. 500µg/kg injected i.p; DMBA+ACE+Vincristine 250µg/kg i.p. Imaging by microPET and fluorescence, biochemistry, oxidative stress, hematology and histopathology were used to validate the treatments. RESULTS: All animals survived. A gradual weight gain in all groups was observed, with no significant difference (p>0.05). The oral administration of ACE and ACE+vincristine 50% significantly reduced breast tumors incidence examined with PET-18FDG and fluorescence (p<0.001). Significant reduction of serum transaminases, oxidative stress and hematological toxicity were observed in these groups. Antioxidant enzyme levels in breast tissue were significantly higher compared to the DMBA and DMBA+vincristine groups. CONCLUSION: These results demonstrate for the first time that ACE positively influences the treatment of DMBA-induced breast cancer in animal model, inducing a reduction in oxidative stress and chemotherapy toxicity, meaning that ACE may have clinical implication in further studies.

Effect of Arrabidaea chica extract against chemically induced breast cancer in animal model

Abstract Purpose: To examine the effects of Arrabidaa chica (Bignoniacea) extract, a native plant of the Amazon known as crajiru, on a 7,12-dimethyl-1,2-benzanthracene (DMBA)-induced breast cancer model in Wistar rats. Methods: We compared the response of breast cancer to the oral administration of A. chica extract (ACE) for 16 weeks, associated or not with vincristine. Groups: normal control; DMBA (50mg/kg v.o,) without treatment; DMBA+ACE (300 mg/kg); DMBA+vincristine. 500μg/kg injected i.p; DMBA+ACE+Vincristine 250μg/kg i.p. Imaging by microPET and fluorescence, biochemistry, oxidative stress, hematology and histopathology were used to validate the treatments. Results: All animals survived. A gradual weight gain in all groups was observed, with no significant difference (p>0.05). The oral administration of ACE and ACE+vincristine 50% significantly reduced breast tumors incidence examined with PET-18FDG and fluorescence (p<0.001). Significant reduction of serum transaminases, oxidative stress and hematological toxicity were observed in these groups. Antioxidant enzyme levels in breast tissue were significantly higher compared to the DMBA and DMBA+vincristine groups. Conclusion: These results demonstrate for the first time that ACE positively influences the treatment of DMBA-induced breast cancer in animal model, inducing a reduction in oxidative stress and chemotherapy toxicity, meaning that ACE may have clinical implication in further studies.

Effects of simvastatin on 5-fluorouracil-induced gastrointestinal mucositis in rats. / Efeitos da sinvastatina na mucosite gastrointestinal induzida por 5-fluorouracil em ratos.

OBJECTIVE: simvastatin has pleiotropic anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects potentially usefull to prevent chemotherapy-induced gastrointestinal mucositis. Studies on this are scarce. This study aimed to examine the effects of simvastatin on gastric and intestinal mucositis after 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) treatment in rats. METHODS: rats weighing 270±18g were divided into two groups. The 5-FU+saline group (5-FU/SAL) rats were treated with 5-FU (50mg/kg) plus 0.9% saline orally (gavage) once daily for five days. The 5-FU+simvastatin (5-FU/SIMV) group was treated with 5-FU (50mg/kg), plus simvastatin (10mg/kg), in the same way. The rats were euthanased on the sixth day, then their stomach and intestine were photographed and removed for exams. Dosages of serum TNF-a, IL-1ß, IL-6 and histopathology were done for stomach and intestine. RESULTS: body-weight was significantly lower in rats treated with 5-FU+saline than the weight loss of the 5-FU/SIMV group rats. TNF-a expression was lower in 5-FU/SIMV group (172.6±18pg/ml) than in 5-FU/SAL (347.5±63pg/ml). Serum IL-1b was lower in 5-FU/SAL group (134.5±23pg/ml) than in 5-FU/SIMV (48.3±9pg/ml). Serum IL-6 was 61.8±15pg/ml in 5-FU/SIMV and 129.4±17pg/ml in 5-FU/SAL groups. These differences were significant (p<0.05). Mucosal damage in stomach and jejunum were observed in rats receiving 5-FU alone. In the stomach and jejunum, simvastatin caused significant protective effects against 5-FU-induced mucosal injury. CONCLUSION: simvastatin attenuated gastric and intestinal mucositis related to 5-FU therapeutics in animal model. These data encourage forthcoming clinical studies addressing the usefulness of statins in the prevention and treatment of gastrointestinal mucositis.

OBJETIVO: examinar os efeitos da sinvastatina na mucosite gástrica e intestinal após o tratamento com 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), determinados pela expressão de citocinas e histologia em ratos. MÉTODOS: ratos pesando 270±15g foram divididos em dois grupos. O grupo 5-FU+salina foi tratado com 5-FU (50mg/kg) mais solução salina a 0,9% por gavagem uma vez ao dia por cinco dias. O grupo 5-FU+sinvastatina foi tratado com 5-FU (50mg/kg), mais sinvastatina (10mg/kg), da mesma forma. Foi feita a eutanásia dos animais no sexto dia. O estômago e o intestino foram fotografados e removidos para exame. Dosagens séricas de TNF-a, IL-1ß, IL-6 e histopatologia (coloração HE) do estômago e intestino foram realizadas. RESULTADOS: o peso corporal diminuiu em ratos no grupo 5-FU+salina. A sinvastatina não inibiu a perda de peso induzida pelo 5-FU. Danos significativos da mucosa no estômago e no jejuno foram observados em ratos que receberam apenas 5-FU. As dosagens séricas de citocinas foram significativamente menores no grupo 5-FU+sinvastatina do que no grupo 5-FU (p<0,05). A sinvastatina causou efeitos protetores significativos contra as lesões da mucosa gástrica e jejunal induzidas por 5-FU. CONCLUSÃO: a sinvastatina atenua a mucosite gástrica e intestinal relacionada à terapêutica com 5-FU. Nossos dados encorajam futuros estudos pré-clínicos e clínicos sobre a utilidade das estatinas na prevenção da mucosite gastrointestinal.

Wound healing of diabetic rats treated with Moringa oleifera extract.

PURPOSE: To evaluate if Moringa oleifera leaf aqueous extract (ME) influences the healing of skin wounds of diabetic rats. METHODS: Wistar rats were used (6 rats/group). Group 1 received normal saline (NS) v.o. Group 2 received moringa extract (100mg/kg v.o) for 3 weeks. Groups 3 and 4: Streptozotocin (STZ) induced diabetes. Group 3 received NS; Group 4 received aqueous ME (100mg/kg) v.o.The wounds of groups 1 and 3 rats were topically treated with NS; wounds of groups 2 and 4 treated with 200µL of 10% ME. After anesthesia, all rats had skin square excision wounds 1.5cm2. Wound percent contractions were measured. On 10th day, blood glucose and serum cytokines were measured. Histometry of wounds was studied using ImagePro6.0 software. RESULTS: Glycemia was significantly reduced in ME treated rats. These rats had higher percent contraction of the wounds on 2nd, 5th and 10th days, then controls (p<0.05). Diabetic rats treated with NS had TNF-α, IL-1ß and IL-6 expression higher than in rats receiving ME. The histopathological score of ME treated diabetic rats (198±13.7) was significantly higher than treatment with NS (145±10.5). CONCLUSION: ME extract positively influenced healing of wounds in diabetic rats after systemic and topical treatment.

Wound healing of diabetic rats treated with Moringa oleifera extract

Abstract Purpose: To evaluate if Moringa oleifera leaf aqueous extract (ME) influences the healing of skin wounds of diabetic rats. Methods: Wistar rats were used (6 rats/group). Group 1 received normal saline (NS) v.o. Group 2 received moringa extract (100mg/kg v.o) for 3 weeks. Groups 3 and 4: Streptozotocin (STZ) induced diabetes. Group 3 received NS; Group 4 received aqueous ME (100mg/kg) v.o.The wounds of groups 1 and 3 rats were topically treated with NS; wounds of groups 2 and 4 treated with 200µL of 10% ME. After anesthesia, all rats had skin square excision wounds 1.5cm2. Wound percent contractions were measured. On 10th day, blood glucose and serum cytokines were measured. Histometry of wounds was studied using ImagePro6.0 software. Results: Glycemia was significantly reduced in ME treated rats. These rats had higher percent contraction of the wounds on 2nd, 5th and 10th days, then controls (p<0.05). Diabetic rats treated with NS had TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 expression higher than in rats receiving ME. The histopathological score of ME treated diabetic rats (198±13.7) was significantly higher than treatment with NS (145±10.5). Conclusion: ME extract positively influenced healing of wounds in diabetic rats after systemic and topical treatment.

DRAIN AMYLASE ON THE FIRST POSTOPERATIVE DAY OF WHIPPLE SURGERY: WHAT VALUE IS THE BEST PREDICTOR FOR EARLY DRAIN REMOVAL?

BACKGROUND: The value of drain amylase on the first postoperative day after pancreatic resections has been described as an efficient predictor of pancreatic fistula. In spite of this, the cut-off point below which the drains can be removed early remains controversial. AIM: Validate the use of the amylase on the 1st postoperative day in the correlation with pancreatic fistula and define the value at which early drain removal is safe. METHOD: Were included patients undergoing Whipple surgery in the period of 2007 to 2016. Group 1 enrolled the ones who did not develop fistula and those who developed biochemical fistula for less than seven days postoperatively and group 2 included patients who developed persistent biochemical fistula between seven and 21 days and those with grade B and C fistula. RESULTS: Sixty-one patients were included, 41 comprised group 1 and 20 group 2. The incidence of abdominal collections, need for reoperation and time of hospitalization were for group 1 and 2, respectively: 17.1%, 17.1% and 9.5 days, and 65%, 40% and 21.1 days. The median of the amylase from the drain at 1st postoperative day was in group 1 and 2, respectively: 175 U/l and 3172.5 U/l (p=0.001). Using a cut-off of 180 to predict the group to which the patient would belong there was obtained sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of 100%, 48.8%, 50% and 100% respectively. CONCLUSION: It was validated the cut-off value of 180 U/l as appropriate to early drain removal.

Drain amylase on the first postoperative day of whipple surgery: what value is the best predictor for early drain removal? / Amilase do dreno no primeiro dia de pós-operatório de operaçao de whipple: qual valor é melhor preditor para a retirada precoce do dreno?

ABSTRACT Background: The value of drain amylase on the first postoperative day after pancreatic resections has been described as an efficient predictor of pancreatic fistula. In spite of this, the cut-off point below which the drains can be removed early remains controversial. Aim: Validate the use of the amylase on the 1st postoperative day in the correlation with pancreatic fistula and define the value at which early drain removal is safe. Method: Were included patients undergoing Whipple surgery in the period of 2007 to 2016. Group 1 enrolled the ones who did not develop fistula and those who developed biochemical fistula for less than seven days postoperatively and group 2 included patients who developed persistent biochemical fistula between seven and 21 days and those with grade B and C fistula. Results: Sixty-one patients were included, 41 comprised group 1 and 20 group 2. The incidence of abdominal collections, need for reoperation and time of hospitalization were for group 1 and 2, respectively: 17.1%, 17.1% and 9.5 days, and 65%, 40% and 21.1 days. The median of the amylase from the drain at 1st postoperative day was in group 1 and 2, respectively: 175 U/l and 3172.5 U/l (p=0.001). Using a cut-off of 180 to predict the group to which the patient would belong there was obtained sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of 100%, 48.8%, 50% and 100% respectively. Conclusion: It was validated the cut-off value of 180 U/l as appropriate to early drain removal.

RESUMO Racional: O valor da amilase do dreno no primeiro dia pós-operatório após ressecções pancreáticas é descrito como eficiente preditor de fístula pancreática. Entretanto, o valor abaixo do qual os drenos podem ser removidos precocemente permanece controverso. Objetivo: Validar o uso da amilase do primeiro dia pós-operatório na correlação com a fístula pancreática e definir o valor em que seja segura a retirada precoce do dreno. Método: Foram incluídos pacientes submetidos à operação de Whipple no período de 2007 a 2016. No grupo 1 entraram os que não desenvolveram fístula e os que desenvolveram fístula bioquímica por menos de sete dias de pós-operatório e no grupo 2 os que desenvolveram fístula bioquímica persistente entre 7 e 21 dias e aqueles com fístula grau B e C. Resultados: Sessenta e um pacientes foram incluídos, sendo 41 do grupo 1 e 20 do grupo 2. A incidência de coleções abdominais, necessidade de reoperação e tempo de internação foram para o grupo 1 e 2, respectivamente 17,1%, 17,1% e 9,5 dias, e 65%, 40% e 21,1 dias. A mediana da amilase no grupo 1 e 2, respectivamente foi de 175 U/l e 3172,5 U/l (p=0,001). Utilizando o ponto de corte de 180 para predizer o grupo a que o paciente pertenceria, obteve-se sensibilidade, especificidade, valor preditivo positivo e valor preditivo negativo de: 100%, 48,8%, 50% e 100% respectivamente. Conclusão: Esta amostra pôde validar o ponto de corte de 180 U/l como adequado para a retirada precoce do dreno.

Efeitos da sinvastatina na mucosite gastrointestinal induzida por 5-fluorouracil em ratos / Effects of simvastatin on 5-fluorouracil-induced gastrointestinal mucositis in rats

RESUMO Objetivo: examinar os efeitos da sinvastatina na mucosite gástrica e intestinal após o tratamento com 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), determinados pela expressão de citocinas e histologia em ratos. Métodos: ratos pesando 270±15g foram divididos em dois grupos. O grupo 5-FU+salina foi tratado com 5-FU (50mg/kg) mais solução salina a 0,9% por gavagem uma vez ao dia por cinco dias. O grupo 5-FU+sinvastatina foi tratado com 5-FU (50mg/kg), mais sinvastatina (10mg/kg), da mesma forma. Foi feita a eutanásia dos animais no sexto dia. O estômago e o intestino foram fotografados e removidos para exame. Dosagens séricas de TNF-a, IL-1ß, IL-6 e histopatologia (coloração HE) do estômago e intestino foram realizadas. Resultados: o peso corporal diminuiu em ratos no grupo 5-FU+salina. A sinvastatina não inibiu a perda de peso induzida pelo 5-FU. Danos significativos da mucosa no estômago e no jejuno foram observados em ratos que receberam apenas 5-FU. As dosagens séricas de citocinas foram significativamente menores no grupo 5-FU+sinvastatina do que no grupo 5-FU (p<0,05). A sinvastatina causou efeitos protetores significativos contra as lesões da mucosa gástrica e jejunal induzidas por 5-FU. Conclusão: a sinvastatina atenua a mucosite gástrica e intestinal relacionada à terapêutica com 5-FU. Nossos dados encorajam futuros estudos pré-clínicos e clínicos sobre a utilidade das estatinas na prevenção da mucosite gastrointestinal.

ABSTRACT Objective: simvastatin has pleiotropic anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects potentially usefull to prevent chemotherapy-induced gastrointestinal mucositis. Studies on this are scarce. This study aimed to examine the effects of simvastatin on gastric and intestinal mucositis after 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) treatment in rats. Methods: rats weighing 270±18g were divided into two groups. The 5-FU+saline group (5-FU/SAL) rats were treated with 5-FU (50mg/kg) plus 0.9% saline orally (gavage) once daily for five days. The 5-FU+simvastatin (5-FU/SIMV) group was treated with 5-FU (50mg/kg), plus simvastatin (10mg/kg), in the same way. The rats were euthanased on the sixth day, then their stomach and intestine were photographed and removed for exams. Dosages of serum TNF-a, IL-1ß, IL-6 and histopathology were done for stomach and intestine. Results: body-weight was significantly lower in rats treated with 5-FU+saline than the weight loss of the 5-FU/SIMV group rats. TNF-a expression was lower in 5-FU/SIMV group (172.6±18pg/ml) than in 5-FU/SAL (347.5±63pg/ml). Serum IL-1b was lower in 5-FU/SAL group (134.5±23pg/ml) than in 5-FU/SIMV (48.3±9pg/ml). Serum IL-6 was 61.8±15pg/ml in 5-FU/SIMV and 129.4±17pg/ml in 5-FU/SAL groups. These differences were significant (p<0.05). Mucosal damage in stomach and jejunum were observed in rats receiving 5-FU alone. In the stomach and jejunum, simvastatin caused significant protective effects against 5-FU-induced mucosal injury. Conclusion: simvastatin attenuated gastric and intestinal mucositis related to 5-FU therapeutics in animal model. These data encourage forthcoming clinical studies addressing the usefulness of statins in the prevention and treatment of gastrointestinal mucositis.

Influence of the colon in liver regeneration of rats submitted to hepatectomy and colectomy.

OBJECTIVE: to evaluate whether colectomy, associated with 70% hepatectomy, influences liver regeneration in rats. METHODS: we distributed 18 Wistar rats in three groups of six animals each. In group I (sham), we performed laparotomy; In group II, colectomy + 70% hepatectomy; In group III, only 70% hepatectomy. On the 6th postoperative day, we collected blood by cardiac puncture under anesthesia, followed by euthanasia. We performed serum dosages of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), albumin and alkaline phosphatase (AF), hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and transforming growth factor-α (TGF-α). We calculated liver regeneration by the formula: liver weight ratio per 100g body weight at the time of euthanasia / liver weight preoperatively projected for 100g body weight × 100. RESULTS: ALT and AST levels were significantly lower in group II when compared with group III (p<0.001). Albuminemia showed significantly higher levels in group II. Levels of HGF and TGF-α in group II were significantly higher than in group III. The percentage of hepatic regeneration was significantly higher in group II than in group III. CONCLUSION: Colectomy performed simultaneously with 70% hepatectomy had a positive influence on liver regeneration in rats. Further research is needed to reveal the molecular mechanisms of this effect and to characterize the colon influence in liver physiology.

Influence of the colon in liver regeneration of rats submitted to hepatectomy and colectomy / Influência do cólon na regeneração do fígado de ratos submetidos à hepatectomia e colectomia

ABSTRACT Objective: to evaluate whether colectomy, associated with 70% hepatectomy, influences liver regeneration in rats. Methods: we distributed 18 Wistar rats in three groups of six animals each. In group I (sham), we performed laparotomy; In group II, colectomy + 70% hepatectomy; In group III, only 70% hepatectomy. On the 6th postoperative day, we collected blood by cardiac puncture under anesthesia, followed by euthanasia. We performed serum dosages of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), albumin and alkaline phosphatase (AF), hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and transforming growth factor-α (TGF-α). We calculated liver regeneration by the formula: liver weight ratio per 100g body weight at the time of euthanasia / liver weight preoperatively projected for 100g body weight × 100. Results: ALT and AST levels were significantly lower in group II when compared with group III (p<0.001). Albuminemia showed significantly higher levels in group II. Levels of HGF and TGF-α in group II were significantly higher than in group III. The percentage of hepatic regeneration was significantly higher in group II than in group III. Conclusion: Colectomy performed simultaneously with 70% hepatectomy had a positive influence on liver regeneration in rats. Further research is needed to reveal the molecular mechanisms of this effect and to characterize the colon influence in liver physiology.

RESUMO Objetivo: avaliar se a colectomia, associada à hepatectomia 70%, influencia a regeneração do fígado em ratos. Métodos: foram utilizados 18 ratos Wistar distribuídos em três grupos de seis animais cada. No grupo I (sham) foi realizada laparotomia; no grupo II colectomia + hepatectomia 70%; no grupo III apenas hepatectomia 70%. No sexto dia pós-operatório foi colhido sangue por punção cardíaca, sob anestesia, seguido de eutanásia. Foram realizadas dosagens séricas de aspartato aminotransferase (AST), alanina aminotransferase (ALT), albumina e fosfatase alcalina (FA), fator de crescimento de hepatócitos (HGF) e fator de crescimento transformador-α (TGF-α). A regeneração do fígado foi calculada pela fórmula: razão peso do fígado por 100g do peso corporal no momento da eutanásia/peso do fígado no pré-operatório projetado por 100g de peso corporal ×100. Resultados: Os níveis de ALT e AST foram significativamente menores no grupo II quando comparados com o grupo III (p<0,001). A albuminemia mostrou níveis significativamente mais elevados no grupo II. Os níveis de HGF e TGF-α no grupo II foram significativamente mais elevados que no grupo III. O percentual de regeneração hepática foi significativamente mais elevado no grupo II do que no grupo III. Conclusão: o estudo demonstrou que a colectomia realizada simultaneamente à hepatectomia 70% influenciou positivamente na regeneração do fígado em ratos. Pesquisas adicionais são necessárias para revelar os mecanismos moleculares deste efeito e para caracterizar a influência do cólon na fisiologia do fígado.

Anatomo-radiological correlation using 18-FDG-PET in abdominal sepsis model in rats. A preliminary study.

PURPOSE:: To examine a correlation of micro-PET images with photographic images of the digestive organs in abdominal sepsis model. METHODS:: Male Wistar rats weighing 265±18g were used. Abdominal sepsis was induced by ligature and cecal puncture. Micro-PET Images from abdominal cavity septic foci were obtained using 18-Fluoro-deoxyglucose, looking for a correlation with photographic images of abdominal cavity organs. Pearson's correlation test was used. RESULTS:: The mean standard uptake values (SUV) and lesion areas were 2.58±0.63SUVbwg/ml and 546.87±300.95mm2, respectively. There was a strong positive correlation between the two variables (r=0.863, p=0.137), which resulted in a coefficient of determination r2?0.75, meaning that 75% of SUV variation is explained by the lesion areas of digestive organs. CONCLUSION:: Micro-PET allows high throughput assessment of lesion count and volume in pre-clinical rat model of CPL abdominal sepsis.

The renoprotective effect of oral Tadalafil pretreatment on ischemia/reperfusion injury in rats.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of tadalafil in renal ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury in rats Methods: Group I/R saline rats (n=6) were subjected to 45 minutes of left renal ischemia and treated with saline; the I/R tadalafil rats (n=6) received oral 10mg/kg tadalafil microemulsion one hour before ischemia. In both groups, 8 hours after ischemia, laboratory analysis were performed Results: Better tissue perfusion was lower in ischemic left/kidney than in right/kidney in saline group, suggesting reduced kidney clearance. Fluorescence in left/kidneys of tadalafil treated rats was lower than in right/kidneys (difference not significant). The fluorescence signal intensity in kidneys of tadafil treated rats was higher than in saline rats. TNF-α levels were significantly lower in I/R tadalafil group rats compared to I/R saline group (154±10.3 vs 391.3±12.3), as well as IL-1ß (163.4±13.2 vs 279±11.5pg/dL), and IL-6 (122.9±8.1 vs 173.7±6.3 respectively; p=0.0001). Urea, creatinine and C-reactive protein were significantly lower in tadafil treated rats then in saline group Conclusion: Tadalafil therapy decreased the expression of circulating pro-inflammatory cytokines in a renal I/R rodent model, while improving kidney function proofs.

Anatomo-radiological correlation using 18-FDG-PET in abdominal sepsis model in rats. A preliminary study

Abstract Purpose: To examine a correlation of micro-PET images with photographic images of the digestive organs in abdominal sepsis model. Methods: Male Wistar rats weighing 265±18g were used. Abdominal sepsis was induced by ligature and cecal puncture. Micro-PET Images from abdominal cavity septic foci were obtained using 18-Fluoro-deoxyglucose, looking for a correlation with photographic images of abdominal cavity organs. Pearson's correlation test was used. Results: The mean standard uptake values (SUV) and lesion areas were 2.58±0.63SUVbwg/ml and 546.87±300.95mm2, respectively. There was a strong positive correlation between the two variables (r=0.863, p=0.137), which resulted in a coefficient of determination r2?0.75, meaning that 75% of SUV variation is explained by the lesion areas of digestive organs. Conclusion: Micro-PET allows high throughput assessment of lesion count and volume in pre-clinical rat model of CPL abdominal sepsis.

Oxacillin magnetically targeted for the treatment of Methicillin-Resistant S. aureus infection in rats.

PURPOSE:: To evaluate the effect of oxacillin bonded to magnetic nanoparticles in local infection model in rat. METHODS:: Twelve Wistar rats weighing 290±18g were randomly divided into four groups (n=6, each) and all rats had a magnet ring sutured on their right thighs. In the biodistribution group rats 0.1mL of 99mTc-magnetite (0.66 MBq) was injected i.v and after 30 minutes, biodistribution of 99mTc-magnetite was evaluated in right and left thighs. The other groups were inoculated with MRSA in each thigh muscles. Group 1 rats were injected i.v. with magnetite, group 2 with Magnetite + Oxacillin, group 3 with saline twice a day. After 24 hours samples of muscle secretion were harvested for microbiological analysis; muscle, lungs and kidneys for histology. RESULTS:: 99mTc-magnetite uptake was three-fold higher in right thigh muscles (with external magnet) than in the left. In magnetite and oxacillin-magnetite groups, bacterial/CFU was significantly lower in thigh muscles than in saline-controls. The inflammatory reaction in muscles and lungs was significantly lower in oxacillin-magnetite group-rats than in other groups (p<0.001) . CONCLUSION:: This study confirms the potential antimicrobial activity of magnetic nanoparticles for Methicillin-Resistant S. aureus strains, which in addition to concentrate the antibiotic at the infection site, positively influenced the treatment.

The renoprotective effect of oral Tadalafil pretreatment on ischemia/reperfusion injury in rats

Abstract Purpose: To evaluate the effect of tadalafil in renal ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury in rats Methods: Group I/R saline rats (n=6) were subjected to 45 minutes of left renal ischemia and treated with saline; the I/R tadalafil rats (n=6) received oral 10mg/kg tadalafil microemulsion one hour before ischemia. In both groups, 8 hours after ischemia, laboratory analysis were performed Results: Better tissue perfusion was lower in ischemic left/kidney than in right/kidney in saline group, suggesting reduced kidney clearance. Fluorescence in left/kidneys of tadalafil treated rats was lower than in right/kidneys (difference not significant). The fluorescence signal intensity in kidneys of tadafil treated rats was higher than in saline rats. TNF-α levels were significantly lower in I/R tadalafil group rats compared to I/R saline group (154±10.3 vs 391.3±12.3), as well as IL-1β (163.4±13.2 vs 279±11.5pg/dL), and IL-6 (122.9±8.1 vs 173.7±6.3 respectively; p=0.0001). Urea, creatinine and C-reactive protein were significantly lower in tadafil treated rats then in saline group Conclusion: Tadalafil therapy decreased the expression of circulating pro-inflammatory cytokines in a renal I/R rodent model, while improving kidney function proofs.

Oxacillin magnetically targeted for the treatment of Methicillin-Resistant S. aureus infection in rats

Abstract Purpose: To evaluate the effect of oxacillin bonded to magnetic nanoparticles in local infection model in rat. Methods: Twelve Wistar rats weighing 290±18g were randomly divided into four groups (n=6, each) and all rats had a magnet ring sutured on their right thighs. In the biodistribution group rats 0.1mL of 99mTc-magnetite (0.66 MBq) was injected i.v and after 30 minutes, biodistribution of 99mTc-magnetite was evaluated in right and left thighs. The other groups were inoculated with MRSA in each thigh muscles. Group 1 rats were injected i.v. with magnetite, group 2 with Magnetite + Oxacillin, group 3 with saline twice a day. After 24 hours samples of muscle secretion were harvested for microbiological analysis; muscle, lungs and kidneys for histology. Results: 99mTc-magnetite uptake was three-fold higher in right thigh muscles (with external magnet) than in the left. In magnetite and oxacillin-magnetite groups, bacterial/CFU was significantly lower in thigh muscles than in saline-controls. The inflammatory reaction in muscles and lungs was significantly lower in oxacillin-magnetite group-rats than in other groups (p<0.001) . Conclusion: This study confirms the potential antimicrobial activity of magnetic nanoparticles for Methicillin-Resistant S. aureus strains, which in addition to concentrate the antibiotic at the infection site, positively influenced the treatment.