The role of MoS2 QDs coated with DSPE-PEG-TPP in the protection of protein secondary structure of the brain tissues in an Alzheimer's disease model.

In this investigation, we have explored the protective capacity of MoS2 QDs coated with 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine-N-[amino(polyethyleneglycol) -2000] (DSPE-PEG) linked with (3-carboxypropyl) triphenylphosphonium-bromide (TPP), on the secondary structure of proteins in Alzheimer's disease (AD)-affected brain tissues. Using a cohort of fifteen male SWR/J mice, we establish three groups: a control group, a second group induced with AD through daily doses of AlCl3 and D-galactose for 49 consecutive days, and a third group receiving the same AD-inducing doses but treated with DSPE-PEG-TPP-MoS2 QDs. Brain tissues are meticulously separated from the skull, and their molecular structures are analyzed via FTIR spectroscopy. Employing the curve fitting method on the amide I peak, we delve into the nuances of protein secondary structure. The FTIR analysis reveals a marked increase in ß-sheet structures and a concurrent decline in turn and α-helix structures in the AD group in comparison to the control group. Notably, no statistically significant differences emerge between the treated and control mice. Furthermore, multivariate analysis of the FTIR spectral region, encompassing protein amide molecular structures, underscores a remarkable similarity between the treated and normal mice. This study elucidates the potential of DSPE-PEG-TPP-MoS2 QDs in shielding brain tissue proteins against the pathogenic influences of AD.

Modified TPP-MoS2 QD Blend as a Bio-Functional Model for Normalizing Microglial Dysfunction in Alzheimer's Disease.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most prevalent neurodegenerative disease of old age. Accumulation of ß-amyloid peptide (Aß) and mitochondrial dysfunction results in chronic microglial activation, which enhances neuroinflammation and promotes neurodegeneration. Microglia are resident macrophages of the brain and spinal cord which play an important role in maintaining brain homeostasis through a variety of phenotypes, including the pro-inflammatory phenotype and anti-inflammatory phenotypes. However, persistently activated microglial cells generate reactive species and neurotoxic mediators. Therefore, inhibitors of microglial activation are seen to have promise in AD control. The modified TPP/MoS2 QD blend is a mitochondrion-targeted nanomaterial that exhibits cytoprotective activities and antioxidant properties through scavenging free radicals. In the present study, the cell viability and cytotoxicity of the DSPE-PEG-TPP/MoS2 QD blend on microglial cells stimulated by Aß were investigated. The levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) were also assessed. In addition, pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1ß (IL-1ß), transforming growth factor beta (TGF-ß), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and arginase-1 (Arg-I) were measured in the presence or absence of the DSPE-PEG-TPP/MoS2 QD blend on an immortalized microglia cells activated by accumulation of Aß. We found that the DSPE-PEG-TPP/MoS2 QD blend was biocompatible and nontoxic at specific concentrations. Furthermore, the modified TPP/MoS2 QD blend significantly reduced the release of free radicals and improved the mitochondrial function through the upregulation of MMP in a dose-dependent manner on microglial cells treated with Aß. In addition, pre-treatment of microglia with the DSPE-PEG-TPP/MoS2 QD blend at concentrations of 25 and 50 µg/mL prior to Aß stimulation significantly inhibited the release and expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-1ß, IL-6, TNF-α, and iNOS. Nevertheless, the anti-inflammatory cytokines TGF-ß and Arg-I were activated. These findings suggest that the modified TPP/MoS2 QD blend reduced oxidative stress, inflammation and improved the mitochondrial function in the immortalized microglial cells (IMG) activated by Aß. Overall, our research shows that the DSPE-PEG-TPP/MoS2 QD blend has therapeutic promise for managing AD and can impact microglia polarization.

A biochemical, theoretical and immunohistochemical study comparing the therapeutic efficacy of curcumin and taurine on T-2 toxin induced hepatotoxicity in rats.

Introduction: Foodborne trichothecene T-2 Toxin, is a highly toxic metabolite produced by Fusarium species contaminating animal and human food, causing multiple organ failure and health hazards. T-2 toxins induce hepatotoxicity via oxidative stress causing hepatocytes cytotoxicity and genotoxicity. In this study, curcumin and taurine were investigated and compared as antioxidants against T-2-provoked hepatotoxicity. Methods: Wistar rats were administrated T-2 toxin sublethal oral dose (0.1 mg/kg) for 2 months, followed by curcumin (80 mg/kg) and taurine (50 mg/kg) for 3 weeks. Biochemical assessment of liver enzymes, lipid profiles, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARs), AFU, TNF-α, total glutathione, molecular docking, histological and immunohistochemical markers for anti-transforming growth factor-ß1 (TGFß1), double-strand DNA damage (H2AX), regeneration (KI67) and apoptosis (Active caspase3) were done. Results and Discussion: Compared to T-2 toxin, curcumin and taurine treatment significantly ameliorated hepatoxicity as; hemoglobin, hematocrit and glutathione, hepatic glycogen, and KI-67 immune-reactive hepatocytes were significantly increased. Although, liver enzymes, inflammation, fibrosis, TGFß1 immunoexpressing and H2AX and active caspase 3 positive hepatocytes were significantly decreased. Noteworthy, curcumin's therapeutic effect was superior to taurine by histomorphometry parameters. Furthermore, molecular docking of the structural influence of curcumin and taurine on the DNA sequence showed curcumin's higher binding affinity than taurine. Conclusion: Both curcumin and taurine ameliorated T-2 induced hepatotoxicity as strong antioxidative agents with more effectiveness for curcumin.

Garden Cress (Lepidium sativum) Seeds Ameliorated Aluminum-Induced Alzheimer Disease in Rats Through Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, and Antiapoptotic Effects.

Background: Bioaccumulation of aluminum in the brain is associated with adverse neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative changes, such as those seen in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Objective: This study aimed to assess the impact of the administration of Lepidium sativum (LS) extract on behavioral, biochemical, and cerebral histopathological changes in rats with AlCl3-induced AD and explore the mechanism behind this effect. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted on 40 male albino rats divided into four groups (n=10): LS (control, 20 mg/kg body weight for 8 weeks), AD (AlCl3, 10 mg/kg body weight), and an LS-treated AD group. Behavioral assessment included radial armed maze and active avoidance training tests. Proinflammatory cytokines, oxidant/antioxidant markers, Aß, AchE, tau protein, TGFß1, homocysteine, folic acid, and vitamin B12 were biochemically assessed in the serum. The cerebral cortex was histopathologically examined. Results: AlCl3 administration significantly impaired rats' memory, indicating AD-like behavioral changes, significantly increased (P<0.001) oxidative stress markers, enhanced proinflammatory cytokines, and significantly increased AChE (P<0.001) adding to cytotoxic effects and neuronal loss in the cerebral cortex. LS administration significantly improved the antioxidant parameters, reduced proinflammatory cytokines, and alleviated AD-associated histopathological changes. Conclusion: LS ameliorated AlCl3-induced changes through its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic effects, suggesting that it has a neuroprotective effect.

T Cells Immunophenotyping and CD38 Overexpression as Hallmarks of the Severity of COVID-19 and Predictors of Patients' Outcomes.

BACKGROUND: By the end of 2019, the COVID-19 pandemic spread all around the world with a wide spectrum of clinical presentations ranging from mild to moderate to severe or critical cases. T cell subtype dysregulation is mostly involved in the immunopathogenic mechanism. The present study aimed to highlight the role of monitoring T cell subtypes and their activation (expression of CD38) in COVID-19 patients compared to healthy subjects and their role in predicting severity and patients' outcomes. MATERIALS: The study involved 70 adult COVID-19 confirmed cases stratified into three groups: a mild/asymptomatic group, a clinically moderate group, and a clinically severe/critical group. Flow cytometry analysis was used for the assessment of CD3+ cells for total T cell count, CD4+ cells for helper T cells (Th), CD8+ cells for cytotoxic T cells (Tc), CD4+CD25+ cells for regulatory T cells (T reg), and CD38 expression in CD4+ T cells and CD8+ T cells for T cell activation. RESULTS: A statistically significant difference was found between COVID-19 cases and healthy controls as regards low counts of all the targeted T cell subtypes, with the lowest counts detected among patients of the severe/critical group. Furthermore, CD38 overexpression was observed in both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. CONCLUSION: Decreased T cell count, specifically CD8+ T cell (Tc), with T cell overactivation which was indicated by CD38 overexpression on CD4+ and CD8+ T cells had a substantial prognostic role in predicting severity and mortality among COVID-19 patients. These findings can provide a preliminary tool for clinicians to identify high-risk patients requiring vigilant monitoring, customized supportive therapy, or ICU admission. Studies on larger patient groups are needed.

Biochemical and Histological Study of the Impact of Combined Lepidium sativum and Citric Acid on Liver and Kidney Functions in Rats.

The study aimed to determine the interaction of using LS and CA in combination on liver, kidney, and heart functions in rats and to evaluate the role of antioxidant effects of LS against CA-induced hepato-renal toxicity. This study was conducted on 36 male rats divided into four groups (n = 9). The groups were; the control, LS-treated (10 g/100 g of food), CA-treated (5 g/100 g of food), and combined LS plus CA-treated groups for 6 weeks. Kidney, liver and heart functions as well as oxidant/antioxidant profile were biochemically assessed in the serum using ELISA. The impact of LS and CA on kidney and liver was histopathologically assessed. Rats fed on diet supplemented with LS for 6 weeks showed no significant change in serum levels of the biochemical markers of liver, kidney and heart functions, while supplementation with CA significant increased (p < 0.001) the serum levels of these markers compared to the control group. Combined administration of LS and CA significantly reduced the serum levels of these parameters compared to CA-treated group. Oxidative markers significantly increased while the antioxidants one decreased in CA-treated group compared to the control. Combined LS and CA significantly improve the oxidant/antioxidant profile as well as histopathological impact compared to CA-treated group.

An Ethanolic Extract of Cucurbita pepo L. Seeds Modifies Neuroendocrine Disruption in Chronic Stressed Rats and Adrenal Expression of Inflammatory Markers and HSP70.

Background: Pumpkins (Cucurbita pepo L.) were described to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-fatigue, and antidepressant-like effect. The adrenal gland is an important stress-responsive organ that maintains homeostasis during stress. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the efficacy of the administration of Cucurbita pepo L. (CP) extract in relieving behavioral, biochemical, and structural changes in the adrenal gland induced by exposure to chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) and to explore the mechanism behind this impact. Materials and Methods: Forty male albino rats were divided into 4 groups (n = 10): control, CUMS, fluoxetine-treated, and CP-treated groups. Behavioral changes, corticosterone level, pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6, and oxidant/antioxidant profile were assessed in the serum at the end of the experiment. Adrenal glands were processed for histopathological and immunohistochemical assessment. Gene expression of caspase-3 and Ki67 and heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) were assessed in adrenal glands using RT-PCR. Results: The CP extract significantly reduced the corticosterone level (p < 0.001), immobility time (p < 0.001), and inflammatory and oxidative changes associated with CUMS-induced depression compared to the untreated group. The CP extract alleviated CUMS-induced adrenal histopathological changes and significantly reduced apoptosis (p < 0.001) and significantly upregulated antioxidant levels in the serum. Conclusion: Cucurbita pepo L. effectively ameliorated the chronic stress-induced behavioral, biochemical, and adrenal structural changes mostly through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Corrigendum: Ocimum basilicum (Basil) Modulates Apoptosis and Neurogenesis in Olfactory Pulp of Mice Exposed to Chronic Unpredictable Mild Stress.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.569711.].

Synergistic Anti-inflammatory and Neuroprotective Effects of Cinnamomum cassia and Zingiber officinale Alleviate Diabetes-Induced Hippocampal Changes in Male Albino Rats: Structural and Molecular Evidence.

Background: Depression has been reported as a common comorbidity in diabetes mellitus although the underlying mechanism responsible for this is not well known. Although both ginger and cinnamon has anti-diabetic, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties, their efficacy in inhibiting neuroinflammation, when simultaneously administrated, has not been investigated yet. Objectives: The study was designed to assess the synergistic effect of Cinnamomum cassia and Zingiber officinale on regulating blood glucose, improve hippocampal structural changes and depressive-like alternations in diabetic rats, and try to identify the mechanism behind this effect. Materials and Methods: Thirty male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into five equal groups (n = 6): the normal control, untreated streptozotocin (STZ)-diabetic, cinnamon-treated diabetic [100 mg/kg of body weight (BW)/day for 6 weeks], ginger-treated diabetic (0.5 g/kg BW/day for 6 weeks), and ginger plus cinnamon-treated diabetic groups. Forced swim test and elevated plus maze behavioral tests were performed at the end of the experiment. HOMA-IR, HOMA ß-cells, blood glucose, insulin, corticosterone, pro-inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and IL-6), and total anti-oxidant capacity (TAC) were assessed in the serum. BDNF mRNA level was assessed in hippocampus using qRT-PCR. Hippocampal histopathological changes were also assessed, and immunoexpression of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), caspase-3, and Ki-67 was measured. Results: Diabetes-induced depressive-like changes in the STZ group were biochemically confirmed by assessing serum corticosterone level, as well as behaviorally using FST and EPM tests. Diabetes also induced degenerative changes in the hippocampus. Treatment of diabetic rats with ginger, cinnamon, or the combination of these alleviated the degenerative structural changes and significantly up-regulated serum insulin, TAC, hippocampal BDNF mRNA, and hippocampal immunoexpression of ki67, while they significantly reduced serum blood glucose, IL-6, TNF-α, IL1ß, as well as hippocampal immunoexpression of GFAP and Caspase-3 compared to the untreated diabetic group. Improvement induced by the combination of ginger and cinnamon was superior to the single administration of either of these. Conclusion: Cinnamomum cassia and Zingiber officinale have synergistic anti-diabetic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidepressant-like, and neuroprotective effects. The use of a combination of these plants could be beneficial as alternative or complementary supplements in managing DM and decreasing its neuronal and psychiatric complications.

Prevalence of ApoB100 rs693 gene polymorphism in metabolic syndrome among female students at King Abdulaziz University.

Apolipoprotein B100 (ApoB100) is a glycoprotein and a member of the adipokine family. It plays a central role in lipoprotein metabolism. Many research studies have revealed a strong relation between ApoB100 and metabolic syndrome (MetS) and insulin resistance. In our research, we examined the relationship between ApoB100 rs693 gene polymorphism, body mass index (BMI) and the probability of MetS in young female students studying at King Abdulaziz University (KAU) in Saudi Arabia. The study group comprised 141 females whose ages ranged from 18 to 25 years. Anthropometric measurements and biochemical parameters were measured alongside a genetic analysis of ApoB100 rs693. The BMI, glucose concentration and total cholesterol level were found to be significantly associated with the ApoB100 rs693 gene. The differences noted between control and MetS groups regarding glucose concentrations were statistically significant (P = 0.001). A growing number of young females are being diagnosed with MetS in KAU because of unhealthy eating habits, in combination with the absence of physical exercise, causing increased body weight and the potential progression of chronic diseases. Our study showed that the allele associated with hypertensive individuals at ApoB100 rs693 and MetS may have a direct genetic influence. Further research on expanded sample sizes, however, is required in order to draw rigid conclusions.

Combined Oral and Topical Application of Pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo L.) Alleviates Contact Dermatitis Associated With Depression Through Downregulation Pro-Inflammatory Cytokines.

Background: Depression and contact dermatitis (CD) are considered relatively common health problems that are linked with psychological stress. The antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antidepressant activities of pumpkin were previously reported. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of the combined topical and oral application of pumpkin fruit (Cucurbita pepo L.) extract (PE) in relieving CD associated with chronic stress-induced depression and compare it to the topical pumpkin extract alone and to the standard treatment. Materials and Methods: Forty male albino rats were exposed to chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) for 4 weeks for induction of depression and then exposed to (1-fluoro-2, 4-dinitrofluorobenzene, DNFB) for 2 weeks for induction of CD. Those rats were assigned into 4 groups (n = 10 each); untreated, betamethasone-treated, PE-treated and pumpkin extract cream, and oral-treated groups. Treatments were continued for 2 weeks. All groups were compared to the negative control group (n = 10). Depression was behaviorally and biochemically confirmed. Serum and mRNA levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-α, IL-6, COX-2, and iNOS, were assessed. Oxidant/antioxidant profile was assessed in the serum and skin. Histopathological and immunohistochemical assessments of affected skin samples were performed. Results: Pumpkin extract, used in this study, included a large amount of oleic acid (about 56%). The combined topical and oral administration of PE significantly reduced inflammatory and oxidative changes induced by CD and depression compared to the CD standard treatment and to the topical PE alone. PE significantly alleviated CD signs and the histopathological score (p < 0.001) mostly through the downregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines and the upregulation of antioxidants. Conclusion: Pumpkin extract, applied topically and orally, could be an alternative and/or complementary approach for treating contact dermatitis associated with depression. Further studies on volunteer patients of contact dermatitis are recommended.

Green coffee methanolic extract and silymarin protect against CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity in albino male rats.

BACKGROUND: During the last few decades, patients worldwide have been interested in using alternative medicine in treating diseases to avoid the increased side effects of chemical medications. Green coffee is unroasted coffee seeds that have higher amounts of chlorogenic acid compared to roasted coffee. Green coffee was successfully used to protect against obesity, Alzheimer disease, high blood pressure and bacterial infection. METHODS: This study aimed to investigate the probable protective activity of the green coffee methanolic extract, silymarin and their combination on CCl4-induced liver toxicity in male rats. Thirty Sprague - Dawley male albino rats were divided into 5 groups; control negative (G1) just got the vehicle (olive oil) and the other four groups received CCl4 dissolved in olive oil through an intraperitoneal injection and were divided into untreated control positive group (G2), the third group (G3) was treated with green coffee methanolic extract, the fourth group (G4) was treated with silymarin, and the fifth group (G5) was treated with a combination of green coffee methanolic extract and silymarin. RESULTS: In the positive control group treated with CCl4 (G2), the CCl4-induced toxicity increased lipid peroxidation, IL-6, kidney function parameters, liver function enzymes, total cholesterol, triglycerides and low-density lipoproteins, and decreased irisin, antioxidants, CYP450 and high-density lipoprotein levels. Hepatic tissues were also injured. However, treating the injured rats in G3, G4 and G5 significantly improved the altered parameters and hepatic tissues. CONCLUSIONS: Green coffee methanolic extract, silymarin, and their combination succeeded in protecting the male rats against CCl4 hepatotoxicity due to their antioxidant activity. Effect of green coffee methanolic extract mixed with silymarin in G5 was more efficient than that of green coffee methanolic extract in G3 or silymarin in G4.

Effects of aluminum chloride and coenzyme Q10 on the molecular structure of lipids and the morphology of the brain hippocampus cells.

Aluminum chloride (AlCl3) is a neurotoxic substance, while coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is considered a lipid antioxidant. Herein, their effects on the molecular structure of lipids and the morphology of the hippocampus brain tissue were investigated. Three groups of Wistar albino male rats were used in this study. For four weeks, one group was kept as a control group; the second group was given AlCl3; the third group was given AlCl3/CoQ10. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and histopathological examinations were utilized to estimate alterations in the molecular structure of the lipids and the cell morphology, respectively. The FTIR spectra revealed considerable decreases in the CH contents and alterations in the molecular ratios of olefinic[double bond, length as m-dash]CH/νas(CH3), νas(CH2)/νas(CH3), and νas(CH2)/[νas(CH2) + νs(CH2)] in the group given AlCl3. However, no significant changes were detected in those rats given AlCl3/CoQ10. Histopathology images uncovered shrinking and dark centers in the pyramidal cells of brain tissue hippocampal cells. The diameters of the pyramidal cells were estimated to be 4.81 ± 0.55 µm, 4.04 ± 0.71 µm, and 4.63 ± 0.71 µm for the control, AlCl3, and AlCl3/CoQ10 groups, respectively. The study showed that the AlCl3 could cause a shrinking of around 16% in the hippocampus pyramidal cells; besides, CoQ10 is a powerful therapeutic antioxidant to help restore the hippocampal neurons to a regular state.

Correction: Effects of aluminum chloride and coenzyme Q10 on the molecular structure of lipids and the morphology of the brain hippocampus cells.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1039/D1RA03786B.].

Ocimum basilicum (Basil) Modulates Apoptosis and Neurogenesis in Olfactory Pulp of Mice Exposed to Chronic Unpredictable Mild Stress.

BACKGROUND: Ocimum basilicum (O. basilicum) was described to have antidepressant and anxiolytic activities. Although the relationship between the main olfactory bulb (MOB) and depression was recently reported, the chronic stress-induced dysfunction of the MOB is not clearly described. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to assess the efficacy of inhalation of O. basilicum essential oils in improving chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS)-induced changes in MOB of mice and understand the mechanism underlying such effect. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Adult male mice (n=40) were assigned into four groups included the control, CUMS-exposed, CUMS + fluoxetine (FLU), CUMS + O. basilicum. Behavioral changes, serum corticosterone level, and gene expression of GFAP, Ki 67, and caspase-3 were assessed using real-time PCR (RT-PCR). Histopathological and immunochemical examination of the MOB was performed. RESULTS: FLU and O. basilicum significantly down-regulated (p = 0.002, p<0.001) caspase-3 gene expression indicating reduced apoptosis and up-regulated (p = 0.002, p < 0.001) Ki67 gene expression indicating enhanced neurogenesis in MOB, respectively. FLU and O. basilicum-treated mice markedly improved MOB mitral cell layer distortion and shrinkage induced by CUMS. CONCLUSION: O. basilicum relieved both biochemically and histopathological chronic stress-induced changes in the main olfactory bulb possibly through up-regulation of gene expression of GFAP and Ki67 and down-regulation of caspase-3 in the MOB.

Thymoquinone Upregulates Catalase Gene Expression and Preserves the Structure of the Renal Cortex of Propylthiouracil-Induced Hypothyroid Rats.

BACKGROUND: The association between hypothyroidism and renal diseases has been described in many studies. Nigella Sativa was among the recently reported natural product that has the potential to prevent renal tissue damage and fibrosis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible protective effect of thymoquinone on the structure of the renal cortex of hypothyroid rats and explore the mechanism behind it. METHODS: An experimental model of hypothyroidism was induced in adult male Wistar rats by administration of propylthiouracil (6 mg/kg/body weight). One hypothyroid group was treated with thymoquinone at the dose of 50 mg/kg/body weight and compared to the untreated group. Thyroid function and oxidant/antioxidant status were assessed in the serum. Catalase gene expression was assessed using the real-time polymerase chain reaction. The kidney was assessed both histologically and immunohistochemically. RESULTS: Administration of propylthiouracil resulted in a significant decrease in the serum levels of nitric oxide, reduced glutathione, and superoxide dismutase activity while the level of malondialdehyde significantly (p < 0.001) increased. Administration of thymoquinone alleviated this effect on the thyroid hormones and significantly increased the serum levels of antioxidants. Thymoquinone significantly (p < 0.001) upregulated catalase transcription by about 24-fold and could block the hypothyroidism-induced glomerular and tubular injury. CONCLUSION: Thymoquinone may have a potential protective effect against hypothyroidism-induced renal injury acting through the attenuation of the oxidative stress and upregulation of renal catalase gene expression.

ATR-IR and EPR spectroscopy for following the membrane restoration of isolated cortical synaptosomes in aluminium-induced Alzheimer's disease - Like rat model.

Synaptosomal membrane peroxidation and alteration in its biophysical properties are associated with Aluminium (Al) toxicity that may lead to cognitive dysfunction and Alzheimer's disease (AD) like pathogenesis. Here we investigated the therapeutic potential of Lepedium sativum (LS) as a natural anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and as acetyl cholinesterase inhibitor in treating Al induced AD-like in rat model. We utilized ATR-IR spectroscopy to follow the restoration in the damaged membrane structure of isolated rat cortical synaptosomes and its biophysical properties, electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spin trapping to follow NADPH oxidase activity (NOX), and EPR spin labelling in response to LS treatment after Al intoxication. We measured the concentration of Ca2+ ions in rat cortical tissue by inductively coupled plasma (ICP), the brain atrophy/curing and hydrocephalus by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) besides light microscope histopathology. Our results revealed significant increase in synaptosomal membrane rgidification, order, lipid packing, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and Ca2+ ion concentration as a result of Al intoxication. The dramatic increase in Ca2+ ion concentration detected in AD group associated with the increase in synaptic membrane polarity and EPR-detected order S-parameter suggest that release of synaptic vesicles into synaptic cleft might be hindered. LS treatment reversed these changes in synaptic membranes, and rescued an observed deficit in the exploratory behaviour of AD group. Our results also strongly suggest that the synaptosomal membrane phospholipids that underwent free radical attacks mediated by AlCl3, due to greater NOX activity, was prevented in the LS group. The results of ATR-IR and EPR spectroscopic techniques recommend LS as a promising therapeutic agent against synaptic membrane alterations opening a new window for AD drug developers.

Hemorrhagic fever in Saudi Arabia: challenge to public health, effective management and future considerations.

BACKGROUND: Viral hemorrhagic fevers (VHF) refers to a group of febrile illnesses caused by different viruses that result in high mortality in animals and humans. Many risk factors like increased human-animal interactions, climate change, increased mobility of people and limited diagnostic facility have contributed to the rapid spread of VHF. MATERIALS: The history of VHFs in the Saudi Arabian Peninsula has been documented since the 19th century, in which many outbreaks have been reported from the southwestern region of Saudi Arabia. Despite presence of regional network of experts and technical organizations, which expedite support and respond during outbreaks, there are some more challenges that need to be addressed immediately. Gaps in funding, exhaustive and inclusive response plans and improved surveillance systems are some areas of concern in the region which can be dealt productively. This review primarily focusses on the hemorrhagic fevers that are caused by three most common viruses namely, the Alkhurma hemorrhagic fever virus, Rift valley fever virus, and Dengue fever virus. CONCLUSION: In summary, effective vector control, health education, possible use of vaccine and concerted synchronized efforts between different government organizations and private research institutions will help in planning effective outbreak-prevention and response strategies in future.

Assessment of the Protective Effect of Lepidium sativum against Aluminum-Induced Liver and Kidney Effects in Albino Rat.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Environmental pollution with the different Aluminum (Al) containing compounds has been increased. Liver and kidney are two vital organs targeted by Al accumulation. The aim of this study was to assess the possible protective and curative effects of Lepidium sativum Linn (LS) against Al-induced impairment of liver and kidney in albino rat and to explore the mechanism behind this effect. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This experimental animal-based study included fifty albino rats divided into five groups, the control, LS-treated (20 mg/kg), AlCl3-treated (10 mg/kg), AlCl3 then LS, and AlCl3 plus LS-treated, simultaneously for 8 weeks. At the end of the experiment, hepatic and renal functions as well as the biomarkers of antioxidants activities were assessed in the serum. Both liver and kidney were dissected out and histopathologically examined. RESULTS: This study showed that administration of AlCl3 caused a significant (p<0.05) reduction in rats body weight. It significantly increased serum AST, ALT, ALP, bilirubin, urea, and creatinine levels and decreased total protein and albumin. AlCl3 significantly reduced enzymatic (catalase), nonenzymatic (reduced glutathione), and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) in the serum. Histopathologically, it induced necrosis and degeneration of hepatocytes, glomeruli, and renal tubules. Administration of LS after or along with AlCl3 significantly restored the serum biomarkers of liver and kidney functions to their near-normal levels and had the ability to overcome Al-induced oxidative stress and preserved, to some extent, the normal hepatic and renal structure. The coadministration of LS had a superior effect in alleviating Al-induced changes. CONCLUSION: Exposure to AlCl3 induced a set of functional and structural changes in the liver and kidney of rats evident through both biochemical and histopathological assessment. The antioxidant activity of LS seeds mediated a protective and curative effect of LS against such changes. Further study through a rigorous clinical trial to prove LS activity on human is recommended.

The correlation between obesity and metabolic syndrome in young female university students in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

OBJECTIVE: To examine the association between increased body mass index (BMI) values and the risk of metabolic syndrome (MetS) in young female science students. METHODOLOGY: The study population was 174 female students aged 18-25 years attending King Abdulaziz University (KAU) in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). Anthropometric measurements obtained included weight, height, waist, and hips circumferences. Blood pressure was also measured, and blood samples were collected for measurements of total cholesterol, triglyceride (TG), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), fasting blood glucose (FBG), and other biochemical parameters. RESULTS: Around 17.7% of the students were at risk of developing MetS, with three or more risk factors detected, and 45% of the students had one or two risk factors. Increased BMI values were associated with an elevated risk of developing MetS, as 41.4% of the overweight students and 44.8% of the obese students had three or more risk factors. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of MetS is increasing in Young female university in the KSA as a result of an unhealthy lifestyle, including a lack of physical activity, leading to increased weight and the possible development of chronic diseases.