Najah R Hadi

Vitamin E and telmisartan attenuates doxorubicin induced cardiac injury in rat through down regulation of inflammatory response

BackgroundThe importance of doxorubicin (Dox), as a potent antitumor antibiotic, is limited by the development of life-threatening cardiomyopathy. It has been shown that free radicals are involved in acute doxorubicin-induced toxicity. The aim of this study was to determine the protective effect of vitamin E and telmisartan in acute doxorubicin induced cardiotoxicity.MethodsThirty two male Sprague - Dawly rats were involved in this study and were randomly separated into 4 groups, eight rats in each group, one group received normal saline I.P as control and second group received doxorubicin 20 mg/kg I.P, the other two groups also received doxorubicin 20 mg/kg I.P as single dose after seven cumulative doses (for seven days) of vitamin E (100 mg/kg) and telmisartan (1 mg/kg) respectively. Immunofluorescent staining for monocytes infiltration and analyses of plasma by (ELISAs) for MCP-1and troponin I. Western immunoblotting assay for ICAM-1, while left ventricular function was analyzed by microcatheter, also estimated the level of oxidative stress parameters (MDA and Catalase) and cardiac enzymes activities (CK-MB and LDH) before starting drugs treatment and after treatment period by 48 hours.ResultsThe immunofluorescent staining showed that administration of vitamin E and telmisartan are attenuated of mononuclear cell infiltration; (p < 0.05 vs. Dox group), also reduced the level of chemokines MCP-1 and ICAM-1 expression compared with Dox group only, and there is marked reduction of myocardial troponin-I levels with improved LV function in vitamin E and telmisartan treated group. Doxorubicin treatment increased MDA, LDH, CK-MB levels significantly (P < 0.01), and were counteracted by administration of vitamin E and telmisartan, but did not significantly affect serum catalase activity.ConclusionsAntioxidant effect (Vitamin E and telmisartan) have been shown to decrease doxorubicininduced cardiotoxicity.

Expression of IL-32 modulates NF-κB and p38 MAP kinase pathways in human esophageal cancer

BACKGROUND Esophageal cancer is the seventh leading cause of cancer death in males in USA, and there is a strong link has been demonstrated between inflammation and esophageal cancer, interleukin (IL)-32 is a recently described pro-inflammatory cytokine characterized by the induction of nuclear factor NF-κB activation, the p38MAPK also plays an important role in key cellular processes related to inflammation and cancer. We investigated whether the IL-32 expression may be involved in esophageal carcinogenesis through modulates the activity of NF-κB and p-p38 MAPK. METHOD Malignant esophageal tissue and blood samples were obtained from 65 operated untreated patients, normal samples was obtained from 35 patients operated for other reasons as control. IL-32 expression visualized by immunohistochemistry, Real time RT-PCR for IL-32 mRNA expression, NF-κB phosphorylation and phosphorylated p38mapk were analyzed by immunoblotting, ELISA for further detection IL-32 and cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-8) concentration in the patients sera. RESULTS IL-32 expression was increased in immunohistochemical staining for malignant esophageal tissue and its correlated with the relative expression level of IL-32 mRNA P=0.007, the P-NF-κB level elevated in tumor tissue compared with control and no difference in the total NF-κB level P=0.003 while the IL-32 up-regulated the P-pNF-κB in the esophageal tumor P=0.005. There is increase in p-p38MAPK activation underlying IL-32 expression in tumor P=0.004, but no change in total p38 MAPK in malignant esophagus. The plasma level of IL-32 expression was increased in malignant esophageal patients P=0.01, with increased in the levels of the cytokines TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1βP<0.05. CONCLUSIONS Understanding the pathway of IL-32 expression to stimulate the secretion cytokines via the activation of NF-κB and up-regulation of p-p38MAPK may or may not prove to be a therapeutic target, or a biomarker, and future studies will finally answer this hypothesis generated.

Metformin ameliorates methotrexate-induced hepatotoxicity.

Objective: To study the effect of metformin on amelioration of hepatotoxicity induced by methotrexate. Materials and Methods: After a 2-weeks of acclimatization period, the animals were randomly separated into three groups (seven rabbits each), all groups were maintained on standard chow diet throughout the experiment (8 weeks). Group 1 was treated with normal saline water (control), Group 2 with methotrexate (MTX, hepatotoxic), and Group 3 with MTX plus metformin. Induction of hepatotoxicity was carried out by administration of MTX to the rabbit in a dose of 0.25 mg/kg /day i.m. for 8 weeks. Results: The treatment with MTX to rabbits for 8 weeks resulted in significant changes in serum liver enzymes, as compared to the baseline group. SGOT, SGPT, ALP, and bilirubin were significantly increased (P < 0.001), while total serum protein was significantly decreased. Similarly, 8 weeks of MTX treatment produced significant (P < 0.001) prolongation in PT. PTT was not significantly changed. It was found that serum MDA levels and SOD activity were significantly increased (P < 0.001), while serum GSH levels were significantly decreased (P < 0.001). Adding metformin to MTX is found to be significantly (P < 0.001) reduced the liver function test and shortening of PT and a significant increase in TSP (P < 0.001). Conclusion: It can be concluded that administration of metformin restored the altered liver function parameters and produced significant improvement in liver histopathological findings. Therefore, this additive drug possesses hepatoprotection against MTX-induced hepatotoxicity.

Leukotriene biosynthesis inhibition ameliorates acute lung injury following hemorrhagic shock in rats.

BackgroundHemorrhagic shock followed by resuscitation is conceived as an insult frequently induces a systemic inflammatory response syndrome and oxidative stress that results in multiple-organ dysfunction syndrome including acute lung injury. MK-886 is a leukotriene biosynthesis inhibitor exerts an anti inflammatory and antioxidant activity.ObjectivesThe objective of present study was to assess the possible protective effect of MK-886 against hemorrhagic shock-induced acute lung injury via interfering with inflammatory and oxidative pathways.Materials and methodsEighteen adult Albino rats were assigned to three groups each containing six rats: group I, sham group, rats underwent all surgical instrumentation but neither hemorrhagic shock nor resuscitation was done; group II, Rats underwent hemorrhagic shock (HS) for 1 hr then resuscitated with Ringers lactate (1 hr) (induced untreated group, HS); group III, HS + MK-886 (0.6 mg/kg i.p. injection 30 min before the induction of HS, and the same dose was repeated just before reperfusion period). At the end of experiment (2 hr after completion of resuscitation), blood samples were collected for measurement of serum tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). The trachea was then isolated and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was carried out for measurement of leukotriene B4 (LTB4), leukotriene C4 (LTC4) and total protein. The lungs were harvested, excised and the left lung was homogenized for measurement of malondialdehyde (MDA) and reduced glutathione (GSH) and the right lung was fixed in 10% formalin for histological examination.ResultsMK-886 treatment significantly reduced the total lung injury score compared with the HS group (P < 0.05). MK-886 also significantly decreased serum TNF-α & IL-6; lung MDA; BALF LTB4, LTC4 & total protein compared with the HS group (P < 0.05). MK-886 treatment significantly prevented the decrease in the lung GSH levels compared with the HS group (P < 0.05).ConclusionsThe results of the present study reveal that MK-886 may ameliorate lung injury in shocked rats via interfering with inflammatory and oxidative pathways implicating the role of leukotrienes in the pathogenesis of hemorrhagic shock-induced lung inflammation.

Effect of Vildagliptin on Atherosclerosis Progression in High Cholesterol –Fed Male Rabbits

Background: Atherosclerosis is a progressive disease of large and medium-sized arteries characterized by the accumulation of lipids and fibrous elements in the large arteries. Aim of the study: This study was undertaken to assess the effect of vildagliptin on the progression of atherosclerosis via interfering with inflammatory and oxidative pathways. Materials and Methods: 18 local domestic male rabbits were included in this study. The animals were randomly divided into three groups (6 rabbits for each group): Group I rabbits fed normal chow (oxiod) diet for 12 weeks. Group II rabbits fed 1% cholesterol enriched diet for 12 weeks. Group III rabbits fed with cholesterol enriched diet for 6 weeks, and then continued on cholesterol-enriched diet and treated with vildaglipin 50 mg/kg/day orally for the next 6 weeks. Blood samples were collected at the start of the study, at 6weeks of the study and then at the end of treatment course to measure Serum lipids profile [(TC), (TG), (HDL)], hsCRP and TNFα. At the end of the study the aorta were removed for measurement of aortic MDA, glutathione, sectioning for histopathology and measuring aortic intima- media thickness. Results: Treatment of rabbits with vildagliptin for 6 weeks results in a significant reduction (P<0.05) in serum level of TC, TG, hsCRP and TNFα and a significant increase (P<0.05) in serum HDL level. There was a significant reduction (P<0.05) in aortic MDA and intima-media thickness, in comparison to the rabbits in the induced untreated control group. vildagliptin treatment cause significant increment (P<0.05) in aortic GSH in comparison to induced untreated group. Regarding the histopathological results, vildagliptin treatment for 6 weeks results in a significant reduction (P<0.05) in atherosclerotic lesions in comparison to the induced untreated group and significant reduction in aortic intima- media thickness (P<0.05). Conclusions: Vildagliptin reduced atherosclerosis progression in hyperlipidemic rabbit via its effect on lipid parameters and interfering with inflammatory and oxidative stress pathway.

Antiatherosclerotic Potential of Clopidogrel: Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Approaches

Background. Atherosclerosis is characterized by endothelial dysfunction, vascular inflammation, and the buildup of lipids, cholesterol, calcium, and cellular debris within the intima of the walls of large and medium size arteries. Objective. To evaluate the effect of clopidogrel on atherosclerosis progression. Materials and Methods. A total of 28 local domestic rabbits were assigned to four groups: normal control, atherogenic control, vehicle control, and clopidogrel treated. Serum triglycerides, total cholesterol, HDL-C, plasma high sensitive C-reactive protein (hsCRP), plasma malondialdehyde (MDA), and plasma reduced glutathione (GSH) were measured at the end of the experiment. Immunohistochemical of aortic atherosclerotic changes were also performed. Results. There was no statistically significant difference between atherogenic control group and vehicle group. Levels of lipid profile, atherogenic index, hsCRP, and MDA are increased while GSH levels were decreased in animals on atherogenic diet. Immunohistochemical analysis showed that aortic expressions of VCAM-1, MCP-1, TNF-α, and IL-17A were significantly increased in atherogenic control group. Histopathologic finding showed that animals on atherogenic diet have significant atherosclerotic lesion. Compared to atherogenic control group clopidogrel do not have significant effect on lipid profile. Clopidogrel significantly reduces hsCRP and MDA levels and increases GSH level. Furthermore, clopidogrel treatment significantly reduced aortic expressions parameters and the histopathologic examination of the aortic arch showed a significant reduction of atherosclerotic lesion. Conclusions. This study outlines how clopidogrel reduces lipid peroxidation, systemic inflammation, and aortic expression of inflammatory markers and hence reduces the progression of atherosclerosis.

Evaluation of the effects of glimepiride (Amaryl) and repaglinide (novoNorm) on atherosclerosis progression in high cholesterol-fed male rabbits

Background: Atherosclerosis is an inflammatory disease of the blood vessel wall, characterized in early stages by endothelial dysfunction, recruitment and activation of monocyte/macrophages. Glimepiride is one of the third generation sulphonylurea drugs, useful for control of diabetes mellitus type two and it may exert anti inflammatory activity, by induction of nitric oxide production or through selective suppression of the cyclooxygenase pathway. Repaglinide is a new hypoglycemic agent, and a member of the carbamoylmethyl benzoic acid family. Some results from the literature demonstrate that repaglinide has favorable effects on the parameters of antioxidative balance. Objectives: The objective of the present study was to assess the effect of glimepiride and repaglinide on atherosclerosis via interfering with the inflammatory and oxidative pathways. Materials and Methods: Twenty four local domestic male rabbits were involved in this study. The animals were randomly divided into four groups; Group I rabbits fed normal chow (oxiod) diet for 10 weeks. Group II rabbits were fed with 1% cholesterol enriched diet. Group III rabbits were fed with 1% cholesterol enriched diet together with Glimepiride (0.1 mg/kg once daily before morning feed). Group IV rabbits were fed with 1% cholesterol enriched diet together with Repaglinide (0.3 mg/kg once daily before morning feed). Blood samples were collected before (0 time) and every two weeks of experimental diets for measurement of serum triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), High-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), high sensitive C - reactive protein (hsCRP), Interleukin – 6 (IL-6) and Tumor Necrosis Factor alpha (TNF-α) levels. At the end of 10 weeks, the aorta was removed for measurement of aortic Malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH) and aortic intimal thickness. Results: Glimepiride and repaglinide treatment did show significant effect on lipid parameters compared with induced untreated group (P < 0.05). Also, they significantly reduced the elevation in hsCRP, IL-6, TNF-α, aortic MDA and aortic intimal thickness compared with induced untreated group (P < 0.05), and they helped to restore the aortic GSH levels (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Glimepiride and repaglinide may reduce atherosclerosis progression in hypercholesterolemic rabbits by interfering with the inflammatory and oxidative pathways without affecting lipid parameters.

Antiatherosclerotic potential of aliskiren: its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in rabbits: a randomized controlled trial

Background: Aliskiren is a direct renin inhibitor. It counteracts renin-angiotensin system and is used to treat hypertension. This study aims to evaluate the effect of aliskiren on the progression of atherosclerosis in domestic rabbits. Methods: Twenty-one local domestic rabbits were divided into three groups each group had special dietary regimen for 8 weeks: Group I (normal control), Group II (atherogenic control) and Group III (2% Cholesterol + aliskiren 40mg/kg/day orally). Blood samples were collected at the end of experiment (8 weeks) for measurement of serum lipid profile, plasma high sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) and plasma reduced glutathione (GSH). Immunohistochemical analysis including vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1); monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1); tumor necrotic factor - α (TNF-α); and interleukin – 17 (IL-17). Histopathologic assessment of aortic atherosclerotic changes were also performed. Results: Compared to normal control group, there is a significant increase in the level of lipid profile, hs-CRP (134.1±1.2ug/L), and malondialdehyde (0.561±0.136umol/L) in the atherogenic diet group, while GSH was significantly reduced (0.58±0.024mmol/L) at (p ≤ 0.05). Immunohistochemical analysis showed that expression of aortic VCAM-1; MCP-1; TNF-α; and interleukin–17 were significantly increased in atherogenic control group compared to normal control group (p<0.001). In addition, animals on atherogenic diet have significant atherosclerotic lesion compared to normal control group. Aliskiren group appears to have no significant effect on lipid profile compared to atherogenic control group, but it has statistically significant reduction in hs-CRP (73.1±3.88ug/L) and MDA (0.261±0.15umol/L) at (p ≤ 0.05). Aliskiren treatment failed to significantly increase the level of plasma reduced glutathione. In addition, aliskiren treatment significantly reduced the expression of VCAM-1; MCP-1; TNF-α; and IL–17 (p≤0.05). Histopathological examination of aortic arch showed that aliskiren significantly reduced atherosclerotic lesion (p≤0.005). Conclusion: We can conclude that aliskiren is helpful in reducing lipid peroxidation, systemic inflammation and aortic expression of inflammatory markers used in this study and hence reduces the progression of atherosclerotic plague.

Autonomic cerebral vascular response to sildenafil in diabetic patient

BackgroundErectile dysfunction is a common problem in type 2 diabetic patients who are at higher risk of cerebrovascular events, and its recorded with sildenafil, a drug which is primarily used for erectile dysfunction.ObjectivesWe tested the hypothesis whether or not sildenafil modulates cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.MethodsA total of 35 male participants were enrolled; eighteen with type 2 diabetes mellitus matched with seventeen normal individuals. Transcranial Doppler Ultrasonographic examination (TCD) was performed for all participants to insonate the middle cerebral artery (MCA) through a trans-temporal window. CVR was assessed by using breath holding (BH)-hyperventilation (HV) test, before and after oral 50 mg sildenafil; recordings were analyzed by using SPSS program version 12.ResultsIn normal individuals, sildenafil did not result in statistically significant change in breath holding index (BHI) from 0.91 ± 0.11 to 0.81 ± 0.09 and full range of vasodilatation (FVD) from (59.4% ± 6.3%) to (53.7% ± 4.9%). In diabetic patients, giving sildenafil resulted in significant increase in BHI (from 0.74 ± 0.14 to 1.03 ± 0.14) and FVD (from 60.2% ± 4.96% to 74% ± 4.8%), (p < 0.05).ConclusionSildenafil significantly improves CVR in type 2 diabetic patients but not in normal subjects.

Both Castration and Goserelin Acetate Ameliorate Myocardial Ischemia Reperfusion Injury and Apoptosis in Male Rats

Although reperfusion of an ischemic organ is essential to prevent irreversible tissue damage, it may amplify tissue injury. This study investigates the role of endogenous testosterone in myocardial ischemia reperfusion and apoptosis in male rats. Material and method. Twenty four male rats were randomized into 4 equal groups: Group (1), sham group, rats underwent the same anesthetic and surgical procedure as the control group except for LAD ligation; Group (2), Active control group, rats underwent LAD ligation; Group (3), castrated, rats underwent surgical castration, left 3wks for recovery, and then underwent LAD ligation; and Group (4), Goserelin acetate treated, rats received 3.6 mg of Goserelin 3 wks before surgery and then underwent LAD ligation. At the end of experiment, plasma cTn I, cardiac TNF-α, IL1-β, ICAM-1, and Apoptosis level were measured and histological examination was made. Results. Compared to sham group, the levels of myocardial TNF-α, IL-1β, ICAM-1, apoptosis, and plasma cTn I were significantly increased (P < 0.05) in control group and all rats showed significant myocardial injury (P < 0.05). Castration and Goserelin acetates significantly counteract the increase in myocardial levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, ICAM-1, plasma cTn I, and apoptosis (P < 0.05) and significantly reduce (P < 0.05) the severity of myocardial injury. We conclude that castration and Goserelin acetates ameliorate myocardial I/R injury and apoptosis in rats via interfering with inflammatory reactions.