Concentrations of selected acute phase proteins in patients with chronic venous insufficiency treated with Sulodexide. Part 1.

Introduction: Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is a widespread and serious social problem. The pathogenesis of the disease is multifactorial and one of the important factors in its development is inflammation. Aim: Assessment of the concentration of selected acute phase proteins: C-reactive protein (CRP) and α1 antitrypsin (AAT) in the blood serum of patients with CVI before and after treatment with Sulodexide. Material and methods: The study was carried out in 88 people, including 39 clinically healthy subjects as the reference group and 49 patients with CVI at various stages of the disease. The concentrations of CRP and AAT were determined. Results: The concentration of CRP in patients before the use of Sulodexide, compared to the results in the reference group, was statistically significantly higher. The concentration decreased significantly after the applied treatment. AAT concentration was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the group of patients compared to the reference group. After treatment with Sulodexide, AAT concentration decreased in all study groups, which was statistically significant compared to the reference group. Conclusions: Elevated levels of acute phase proteins: CRP and AAT in patients indicate the participation of the inflammatory component in the pathogenesis of CVI. Monitoring levels of acute phase protein, especially AAT, may be useful in tracking the course of the disease, the body's response to treatment, and in making prognosis. Sulodexide, which acts mainly as an anticoagulant and profibrinolytic, also has an anti-inflammatory effect, which may contribute to the inhibition of the development of subsequent stages of CVI.

Increased serum levels of interleukin-17 in patients with alopecia areata and non-segmental vitiligo.

Introduction: Alopecia areata (AA) and vitiligo are both skin diseases of autoimmune origin. AA is characterized by patchy hair loss primarily on the scalp but may involve other areas as well, while vitiligo is caused by the destruction of melanocytes and results in the appearance of white patches on any part of the body. Many facts indicate similar pathogenesis of these diseases. Both dermatoses are associated with frequent coexistence of other autoimmune diseases and share common genetic risk factors. Recent data support the theory of the involvement of IL-17 in the pathogenesis of both AA and vitiligo. Aim: To evaluate and compare the serum levels of interleukin (IL)-17 in patients with AA and non-segmental vitiligo (NSV). To assess whether the pattern of serum cytokine concentration can be associated with clinical details and activity of the disease. Material and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 33 patients with AA, 30 patients with NSV, and 30 healthy controls. Serum levels of IL-17 were determined quantitatively by ELISA method. Results: Our analysis identified a systemic inflammatory signature associated with AA and NSV, characterized by elevated levels of IL-17. The levels of IL-17 did not differ significantly between AA patients and NSV patients. Conclusions: Our results show that AA and vitiligo may share common etiopathogenetic pathways, which suggests the potential of developing targeted therapies for both AA and vitiligo treatment. Imbalance of T cell subpopulations and complex systemic cytokine profiles may contribute to the pathogenesis of AA and vitiligo.

Canola/rapeseed protein - nutritional value, functionality and food application: a review.

Plant-based diet and plant proteins specifically are predestined to meet nutritional requirements of growing population of humans and simultaneously reduce negative effects of food production on the environment. While searching for new sources of proteins, special emphasis should be placed on oilseeds of Brassica family comprising varieties of rapeseed and canola as they contain nutritionally valuable proteins, which have potential to be used in food, but are now rarely or not used as food components. The purpose of the present work is to provide a comprehensive review of main canola/rapeseed proteins: cruciferin and napin, with the focus on their nutritional and functional features, putting special emphasis on their possible applications in food. Technological challenges to obtain rapeseed protein products that are free from anti-nutritional factors are also addressed. As molecular structure of cruciferin and napin differs, they exhibit distinct features, such as solubility, emulsifying, foaming or gelling properties. Potential allergenic effect of 2S napin has to be taken under consideration. Overall, rapeseed proteins demonstrate beneficial nutritional value and functional properties and are deemed to play important roles both in food, as well as, non-food and non-feed applications.

Paraoxonase-1 and other factors related to oxidative stress in psoriasis.

INTRODUCTION: Psoriasis is considered as a risk factor for atherosclerosis and contributes to myocardial infarction, ischemic heart disease and brain stroke. AIM: To estimate the atherogenic potential of psoriasis by analysing antioxidative and prooxidative factors (paraoxonase-1, α-tocopherol, uric acid, homocysteine), compare levels of these parameters between groups of psoriatic patients and healthy individuals as well as to analyse the impact of psoriasis severity and duration on the factors under the study and to define correlation between the marked factors and patients' lifestyles, body mass index (BMI) and abdominal circumference. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The investigated group consisted of 66 patients with psoriasis vulgaris, while the control group comprised 30 persons. Both groups were comparable as regards their age, sex and BMI as well as abdominal circumference. RESULTS: A significantly lower activity of paraoxonase-1 (p < 0.001), level of tocopherol (p < 0.05) and significantly higher concentration of homocysteine (p < 0.01), uric acid (p < 0.05) were found in patients with psoriasis as compared to the reference group. A higher homocysteine level occurs in patients with a negative family history of psoriasis (p < 0.05). In the group of patients with psoriasis and metabolic syndrome, the uric acid level was significantly higher (p < 0.05). Concentration of uric acid correlated negatively with the abdominal circumference value (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Psoriasis promotes arteriosclerosis development by decreasing the levels of antiatherogenic and increasing the levels of proatherogenic agents. Adverse changes in psoriatic patients involve activity of paraoxonase-1, levels of α-tocopherol, uric acid, homocysteine as compared to healthy individuals selected by their age, BMI and abdominal circumference value.

Serum concentrations of selected proinflammatory cytokines in children with alopecia areata.

INTRODUCTION: Alopecia areata (AA) is considered an autoimmune disorder characterized by patchy loss of hair from the scalp and other body parts. Many patients develop the disease in childhood. AIM: To answer the question whether abnormal production of some proinflammatory cytokines (IL-2, IL-6, IL-15, IL-17A and IFNγ) in children with AA may facilitate the development or progression of the disease. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study group consisted of 42 children with AA, the control group - 37 healthy children. Peripheral venous blood samples were collected from patients with AA and healthy controls and the concentrations of serum cytokines, namely IL-2, IL-6, IL-15, IL-17A, IFN-γ were determined quantitatively by ELISA method. RESULTS: The serum IL-6, IL-15, IL-17A and IFNγ levels were significantly increased in patients with AA compared with control subjects (p < 0.05). The serum IL-15 level was found to be increased when the total duration of AA was increased (q = 0.30; p = 0.05). The serum cytokine level of IL-17A was found to be decreased when duration of the current episode was longer than 2 years (p < 0.05), but the correlation between IL-17A serum level and duration of the current episode was not confirmed in the Spearman test (q = -0.06; p = 0.68). The serum IL-17A level was found to be significantly decreased when the thyroiditis was present (q = -2.378; p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The increased levels of serum IL-6, IL-15, IL-17A and IFNγ in children suggest imbalance in the serum proinflammatory cytokines production in AA.

Pleural Macrophages can Promote or Inhibit Apoptosis of Malignant Cells via Humoral Mediators Depending on Intracellular Signaling Pathways.

Macrophages in malignant pleural effusions (MPEs) demonstrate a promalignant phenotype. They release mediators, which are a source of inflammation within the pleura. We established in vitro model proving that pleural macrophages isolated from effusions affect cancer cells in their pro- or anti-apoptotic activity via humoral mediators. Additionally, we measured concentrations of selected transcription factors in cancer cells. Pleural macrophages can affect the apoptosis of cancer cells via intercellular mediators which trigger different signal transductors in cancer cells. The observed effect is connected to the composition of exudate which may vary depending on its origin, either malignant or nonmalignant.

[Perineural cysts]. / Torbiele okolokorzeniowe.

Perineural cyst (Tarlov cyst) is a lesion in a form of fluid-filled sacks, usually located within the nerve root sheath at the posterior root of a spinal nerve, whose wall is formed by: endoneurium, peripheral nerve fibers and ganglion cells and areolar tissue. Depending on the studied population, the frequency of lesion occurence was estimated at 1.5- 13.2%, with its significant majority occuring in women. Cyst development may be the result of ischemia, hemorrhage, inflammation or trauma. Cysts are usually asymptomatic theefore they are likely to bo detected accidentally. However, in approximately 1/4 of the cases, the cyst puts so much pressure on the nerve and the neighbouring nerve roots that it becomes symptomatic (causes pain). The presence of clinical symptoms may be an indication for conservative treatment (i.e. analgesics, rehablitation, cyst puncture) or surgery (usually laminectomy).

[Epidemiology and risk factors of testicular tumours]. / Epidemiologia i czynniki ryzyka rozwoju nowotworów jadra.

Testicular tumours are rare neoplasms, which most commonly affects men aged 25 to 35 years. Among young adult males it is the most common cause of testicular swelling. In recent decades, the number of cases of testicular tumours has greatly increased. The most significant predisposing factors are cryptorchidism and some endocrine disorders, especially increased levels of gonadotropins and female sex hormones. Testicular trauma, inguinal hernia, extreme values of body mass index (BMI), high-calorie diet rich in dairy products as well as high social status are also regarded as risk factors. Furthermore, some chromosomal abnormalities like increased number of chromosomes 7, 8. 12, 21 and X, loss of chromosomes 4, 5, 11, 13, 18, or Y, mutation in the gene Xq27; as well as multiplied copy of the gene i(12p) are associated with tumor development. It has been proven that high testosterone levels and regular physical activity may prevent testicular tumours. Since one of the first sign the lesion is often a lump or swelling of the testis and the appearance of abnormal structure in the scrotum routine testicular self-examination seems to be important in early detection. In all suspected cases an immediate ultrasound examination of both testicles is highly recommended. It is also advised to conduct a computerized tomography (CT) and a positron emission tomography (PET) scan for staging of the tumor to select the best mode of treatment.

Presence of selected metabolic syndrome components in patients with psoriasis vulgaris.

INTRODUCTION: Recent studies have suggested a strong association between psoriasis and obesity, dyslipidemia, hypertension, resistance to insulin and metabolic syndrome. AIM: To assess the prevalence of selected metabolic syndrome components in patients with psoriasis and the effect of the abnormalities on the disease activity. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Two hundred and forty-six patients diagnosed with psoriasis and 75 healthy individuals as controls were included in the study. Psoriasis activity was evaluated by the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI). RESULTS: There was a statistically significant difference in triglyceride concentration between psoriasis patients and controls (p = 0.00001), which was not found for high-density lipoprotein (HDL) concentration. Mean values of serum glucose level in patients with psoriasis were significantly higher than in controls (p = 0.046). Further statistical analysis of the obtained results showed significantly higher systolic blood pressure in the psoriasis patients than in the controls (p = 0.0001), but there was no statistically significant difference in diastolic blood pressure between the investigated groups (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Higher prevalence of metabolic syndrome components was observed in patients with psoriasis than in the general population.

Application of microsatellite-primed PCR (MSP-PCR) and PCR melting profile (PCR-MP) method for intraspecies differentiation of dermatophytes.

In this study, two PCR-based methods (MSP-PCR and PCR-MP) were compared for their abilities to identify intraspecies variations of 23 isolates of Trichophyton rubrum, 78 isolates of Trichophyton interdigitale and 22 isolates of Microsporum canis, obtained mainly from patients in Lódz city. The results allowed to distinguish four types (containing two subtypes) characteristic for T. interdigitale and three types characteristic for T. rubrum using PCR-MP method. Analysis conducted using MSP-PCR with (GACA)4 primer revealed four types for T. rubrum and three types (containing one subtype) for T. interdigitale and with (GTG), primer showed two types (containing one subtype) for T. rubrum and six types (containing one subtype) for T. interdigitale. No differentiation was observed for the M. canis isolates with either method.

Polypropylene Color Masterbatches Containing Layered Double Hydroxide Modified with Quinacridone and Phthalocyanine Pigments-Rheological, Thermal and Application Properties.

Polypropylene color masterbatches containing modified layered double hydroxides, LDHs, were created. The simple, industry-acceptable method of LDH surface modification with quinacridone and phthalocyanine pigments using the pulverization method in ball mills was applied. It was reported that the modification parameters such as time and rotational speed affected the tendency to create the aggregates for modified fillers. TGA analysis of the modified LDH showed that modification with phthalocyanine pigment shifted the temperature at which 5%, T5%, and 10% of mass loss, T10%, occurred compared with that for unmodified LDH. The viscoelastic properties of prepared masterbatches were investigated. The incorporation of the modified fillers instead of neat pigments led to an increase in the loss shear modulus, G″, indicating a stronger influence on the dissipation of energy by the melted masterbatch. The similar values of tan, δ, were determined for melted masterbatches containing phthalocyanine pigment and green modified LDH filler. The incorporation of both LDHs modified by phthalocyanine and quinacridone pigment fillers slightly increased the zero-shear viscosity, η0, compared with that of the masterbatches based on the neat pigments. The Cole-Cole plots and the analysis of the Maxwell and continuous relaxation models showed that modified colored LDH fillers facilitated the relaxation of the melted masterbatch, and shorter relaxation times were observed. The phthalocyanine-modified LDH filler improved the thermal stability of the masterbatches. Additionally, the impact of pigments and modified, colored LDH on the crystallization of polypropylene was investigated.

Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy following Tibial Tuberosity Advancement Cage Removal: A Case Report.

The purpose of this case report is to describe the functional and clinical outcome of a tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) in a dog with joint instability and persistent lameness following a Tibial Tuberosity Advancement surgery (TTA) Rapid. A six-year-old male Labrador retriever (38 kg) with a tibial plateau angle of 27° and a patella ligament to tibial plateau angle of 102° and persistent lameness lasting six months after TTA Rapid surgery has been examined. During orthopedic examination, the lameness was subjectively graded 3/5 and the positive drawer and tibial compression tests were performed. The TTA Rapid cage and all screws were completely removed from the tibia to have enough room to perform a TPLO radial cut. A lameness score evaluation, client satisfaction and radiographic follow-up were performed at 4 weeks, 8 weeks and 6 months postoperatively. Long-term follow-up showed radiologically excellent healing with fusion of the gap and disappearance of the osteotomy line. Six months postoperatively, no lameness was detected at a walk and trot. The owner was completely satisfied and reported the dog being free from lameness even after long walks. No complications related to the TPLO surgery occurred.

The Beneficial Impact of Zinc Supplementation on the Vascular Tissue of the Abdominal Aorta under Repeated Intoxication with Cadmium: A Study in an In Vivo Experimental Model.

In an in vivo rat model of human exposure to cadmium (Cd; 5 and 50 mg/L, 6 months), whether the supplementation with zinc (Zn; 30 and 60 mg/L, increasing its daily intake by 79% and 151%, respectively) protects against the unfavourable impact of this xenobiotic on the vascular tissue of the abdominal aorta was investigated. The treatment with Cd led to oxidative stress and increased the concentrations of pro-inflammatory interleukin 1ß (IL-1ß), total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and decreased the concentration of anti-inflammatory interleukin 10 (IL-10) in the vascular tissue. Cd decreased the expression of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1 (PECAM-1), and L-selectin on the endothelial cells. The administration of Zn prevented most of the Cd-induced alterations or at least weakened them (except for the expression of adhesive molecules). In conclusion, Zn supplementation may protect from the toxic impact of Cd on the blood vessels and thus exert a beneficial influence on the cardiovascular system. The increase in the intake of Zn by 79% may be sufficient to provide this protection and the effect is related to the antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and antiatherogenic properties of this essential element.

The Body Status of Manganese and Activity of This Element-Dependent Mitochondrial Superoxide Dismutase in a Rat Model of Human Exposure to Cadmium and Co-Administration of Aronia melanocarpa L. Extract.

The impact of a polyphenol-rich 0.1% aqueous extract from Aronia melanocarpa L. berries (AE) on the body status of manganese (Mn) and the activity of this essential element-dependent mitochondrial superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) during treatment with cadmium (Cd) was investigated in a rat model of low-level and moderate environmental human exposure to this xenobiotic (1 and 5 mg Cd/kg diet, respectively, for 3-24 months). The exposure to Cd, dose- and duration-dependently, affected the body status of Mn (apparent absorption, body retention, serum and tissue concentrations, content in some organs and total Mn body burden, and urinary and faecal excretion) and the activity of MnSOD in the mitochondria of the liver, kidney, and brain. The administration of AE during the exposure to Cd prevented or at least partially protected the animals from the perturbation of the metabolism of Mn, as well as ameliorated changes in the activity of MnSOD and the concentration of Mn and protected from Cd accumulation in the mitochondria. In conclusion, AE may protect from disorders in the body status of Mn and influence the antioxidative capacity of cells under chronic exposure to Cd. The findings confirm the protective impact of aronia berries products against Cd toxicity.

Mechanical Testing of the New Cage for Tibial Tuberosity Advancement with the Cranial Implant Fixation (TTA CF) Technique-Ex Vivo Study on Sheep Model.

Background: Modifications of tibial tuberosity advancement are well accepted for cranial cruciate rupture repair. We compared the loads that were needed to pull the TTA CF cage out in the two groups. The first group consisted of five sheep in which osteotomy and TTA CF cage fixation were performed as assumed preoperatively. The second group consisted of five sheep in which intraoperative or postoperative discrepancies from preoperative planning were found. This is also the first report describing biomechanical testing after tibial tuberosity advancement with cranial implant fixation (TTA CF) surgical procedures. Results: A total of 10 ovine proximal tibiae were tested biomechanically by tearing out TTA CF implants from the bone. The mean maximal loaded forces to pull out the cage in Group 1, in which fixation of the implant was performed as assumed preoperatively, was 878 ± 61 N, and in Group 2, in which discrepancies from preoperative planning were found, was 330 ± 55 N. The mean implant displacement under maximal load to failure was 2.6 mm and 2.2 mm in Groups 1 and 2, respectively. There was a significant difference between Group 1 and Group 2 in the maximal loads-to-failure; however, the difference in the displacement at maximal loaded forces to pull out the cage was not significant between the groups. Conclusions: The mean maximal loaded forces to pull out the cage was significantly lower in Group 2, where discrepancies from preoperative planning were found (878 ± 61 N vs. 330 ± 55 N). The lower forces that were needed to extract the TTA CF implant from the tibia can lead to the conclusion that biointegration of the implant is also weaker. Correct positioning of the osteotomy line and TTA CF implant is essential for good biointegrity and thus for limiting complications in the form of tibial tuberosity avulsion fracture or tibial shaft fracture.

Evaluation of the phenotype pattern of macrophages isolated from malignant and non-malignant pleural effusions.

Macrophages are among the infiltrate components of most malignant tumors. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) may secrete a variety of humoral factors, which promote or inhibit tumor growth. In general, depending on their activation pathway, macrophages exhibit two different patterns of phenotype, M1 or M2. It is assumed that TAMs comprise pattern M2. In the malignant pleural effusion, macrophages are a frequent component of cytological evaluation. In this microenvironment, TAMs could be involved in the development of immunity. The phenotype of macrophages represented in malignant and non-malignant pleural effusions is unknown. In this study, macrophages were isolated from 38 pleural effusions (15 malignant and 23 non-malignant) and the expression of a variety of immune mediators and their receptors was assessed to determine the type of activation (M1 vs. M2). The expression of mRNA was analyzed for IL-1ß, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, IL-11, IL-18, TNFα, TGFß1, IL1R1, IL1RAP, TLR2, TLR4, VLA4, CD62L, MMP2, MMP9, VEGFA, PDGFA, and PDGFB. In immunohistochemical evaluation, the expressions of CD68, mesothelin, MAC387, IL-1ß, IL-6, IL-10, IL-12, TNFα, and CD105 were assessed. The cytoplasmic expression of IFNγ, TNFα, IL-6, and IL-10 and the surface expression of CD11a, CD14, CD15, CD16, CD23, CD25, CD45, CD54, CD62L, CD69, VLA2, VLA3, VLA4, VLA6, TLR2, TLR4, and CCR7 were tested using flow cytometry. In supernatants from macrophages cultures, TNFα, IL-1ß, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12, MCP1, and VEGF were investigated by cytometric beads array method (CBA flex sets) and TGFß1 by ELISA. Our results indicate that macrophages from malignant and non-malignant pleural effusions differ from each other and suggest that macrophages isolated from non-malignant effusions show a pattern comparable to M1 while those isolated from malignant effusions express similarity to M2 phenotype, but they have not shown a classical M2 pattern.

Strains differentiation of Microsporum canis by RAPD analysis using (GACA)4 and (ACA)5 primers.

Molecular analysis of dermatophytes (based on PCR fingerprinting) revealed high clonal differentiation between the genus and species. Microsporum canis (zoophilic dermatophyte, belonging to genus Microsporum), responsible for most cases of tinea capitis in children, tinea corporis in adults and dermatophytoses in cats, is very unique in comparison with other dermatophytes. Results of most molecular studies show that there is no clonal differentiation within M. canis as distinct from other species. The aim of this study was application of (GACA)4 repetitive primer and (ACA)5 primer for typing of M. canis strains isolated from human and animals in Central Poland. Fungal strains: 32 clinical isolates of M. canis, originated from patients from Central Poland; 11 strains isolated from infected cats (6) and dogs (7), reference strains of M. canis (CBS 113480), T rubrum (CBS 120358), T mentagrophytes (CBS 120357) and E. floccosum (CBS 970.95). The genomic DNAs of the strains were used as a template in RAPD reaction. No differentiation was observed for the analyzed M. canis strains using (GACA)4 and (ACA)5 typing.

Spinal Perineural Cysts among European Patients.

BACKGROUND: A perineural (Tarlov) cyst is a fluid-filled lesion occurring between the perineurium and the endoneurium of spinal nerve roots. The aim of the study was to evaluate the prevalence and morphology of perineural cysts, detected incidentally in patients with symptomatic degenerative disk disease. MATERIALS/METHODS: The study was based on the retrospective data gathered during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examinations. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: Out of 3,128 spinal MRI examinations, perineural cysts were detected in 286 patients (9%). The cysts were most commonly observed in the sacral region, followed by thoracic, cervical, and lumbar regions. Cysts were more common in women than in men and the average age of patients was 54.8 years. In the majority, a single cyst was found. The average longest dimension of the lesion was 11.72 mm.

Enhanced Zinc Intake Protects against Oxidative Stress and Its Consequences in the Brain: A Study in an In Vivo Rat Model of Cadmium Exposure.

We examined, in a rat model of moderate environmental human exposure to cadmium (Cd), whether the enhanced intake of zinc (Zn) may protect against Cd-caused destroying the oxidative/antioxidative balance and its consequences in the brain. The intoxication with Cd (5 mg/L, 6 months) weakened the enzymatic (superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, catalase) and non-enzymatic (total thiol groups, reduced glutathione) antioxidative barrier decreasing the total antioxidative status and increased the concentrations of pro-oxidants (hydrogen peroxide, myeloperoxidase) in this organ and its total oxidative status. These resulted in the development of oxidative stress and oxidative modifications of lipids and proteins. The co-administration of Zn (30 and 60 mg/L enhancing this element intake by 79% and 151%, respectively) importantly protected against Cd accumulation in the brain tissue and this xenobiotic-induced development of oxidative stress and oxidative damage to lipids and proteins. Moreover, this bioelement also prevented Cd-mediated oxidative stress evaluated in the serum. The favorable effect of Zn was caused by its independent action and interaction with Cd. Concluding, the enhancement of Zn intake under oral exposure to Cd may prevent the oxidative/antioxidative imbalance and oxidative stress in the brain and thus protect against injury of cellular macromolecules in the nervous system.

The Impact of a Polyphenol-Rich Extract from the Berries of Aronia melanocarpa L. on Collagen Metabolism in the Liver: A Study in an In Vivo Model of Human Environmental Exposure to Cadmium.

This study examined whether a polyphenol-rich extract from the berries of Aronia melanocarpa L. (AE; chokeberries) may protect from the impact of cadmium (Cd) on the metabolism of collagen in the liver. The study was conducted in an experimental model (rats that were fed a diet containing 1 or 5 mg Cd/kg for 3-24 months) of human exposure to this xenobiotic during a lifetime. The concentration of total collagen and the expression of collagen types I and III at the mRNA and protein levels, as well as the concentrations of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-1 and MMP-2) and their tissue inhibitors (TIMP-1 and TIMP-2), were assayed. The administration of Cd and/or AE had only a slight and temporary impact on the concentration of total collagen in the liver. The supplementation with AE significantly prevented Cd-mediated changes in the expression of collagen types I and III at the mRNA and protein levels and their ratio (collagen III/collagen I), as well as a rise in the concentrations of MMPs and TIMPs in this organ. The results allow the conclusion that the intake of chokeberry products in the case of Cd intoxication may be effective in prevention from this xenobiotic-induced disturbance in collagen homeostasis in the liver.