Brain in ammation and oxidative stress play a critical role in the neuronal apoptosis and memory ... more Brain in ammation and oxidative stress play a critical role in the neuronal apoptosis and memory dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease. Crocin is a natural carotenoid present in the stigma of saffron which possesses radical scavenging, anti-in ammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties. The present study examined the protective impact of crocin on neuronal apoptosis, oxidative stress, neuroin ammation and memory de cits induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in rats. Wistar rats received crocin at a dose of 100 mg/kg for 12 days. Besides, LPS (1 mg/kg, ip) was injected on days 8-12. Spatial memory was evaluated in the Morris water maze, two hours after LPS injection on days 8-12. Gene expression of nuclear factor (NF)-κB, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), caspase 3 and lipid peroxidation was assessed in the hippocampal homogenates at the end of behavioral test. Histopathological changes in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex was evaluated using H&E staining. According to results, administration of LPS caused spatial memory dysfunction accompanied by upregulation of mRNA expression of NF-κB, TNF-α and caspase 3 as well as increased lipid peroxidation and tissue damge in the hippocampus. Furthermore, crocin treatment at a dose of 100 mg/kg attenuated memory impairments, downregulated the mRNA expression of NF-κB, TNF-α and caspase 3 and decreased lipid peroxidation in the hippocampus. Crocin also ameliorated LPS-induced pathological changes and neuronal loss in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex. In conclusion, neuroprotective effects of crocin against LPS-induced histopathological and behavioural changes could be attributed to its anti-apoptotic, anti-in ammatory and radical-scavenging activities in the rat brain.
Objective: Sesamol is a phenolic lignan extracted from sesame seeds, and it possesses anti-inflam... more Objective: Sesamol is a phenolic lignan extracted from sesame seeds, and it possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is known to produce neuroinflammatory responses and memory impairment. The current study aimed to investigate the protective influence of sesamol against LPS-mediated neuroinflammation and memory impairment. Materials and methods: Sesamol (10 and 50 mg/kg) was injected to Wistar rats for two weeks. Then, animals received LPS injection (1 mg/kg) for five days, while treatment with sesamol was performed 30 min before LPS injection. Spatial learning and memory were assessed by the Morris water maze (MWM), two hours after LPS injection on days 15-19. Biochemical assessments were performed after the end of behavioral experiments. Results: LPS-administered rats showed spatial learning and memory deficits, since they spent more time in the MWM to find the hidden platform and less time in the target quadrant. Besides these behavioral changes, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and lipid peroxidation levels were increased, while total thiol level was decreased in the hippocampus and/or cerebral cortex. In addition, sesamol treatment (50 mg/kg) for three weeks decreased the escape latency and increased the time on probe trial. Sesamol also reduced lipid peroxidation and TNF-α level, while enhanced total thiol level in the brain of LPS-exposed rats. Conclusion: Supplementation of sesamol attenuated learning and memory impairments in LPS-treated rats via antioxidative and anti-inflammatory activities in the rat brain.
The aim of this study was to test whether Nigella sativa (NS) seeds can reduce cisplatin-induced ... more The aim of this study was to test whether Nigella sativa (NS) seeds can reduce cisplatin-induced toxicity. Materials and Methods. Thirty rats were divided into 3 groups to receive distilled water (control group), cisplatin (3 mg/kg per body weight for 3 days), and cisplatin and alcoholic extract of NS (100 mg/kg per body weight). Biochemical and histopathologic parameters were compared between the three groups on days 14 and 42 of the study. Results. Blood urea nitrogen increased in the cisplatin and NS groups on days 14 and 42 compared to day 0 (P < .001). It was significantly in the cisplatin than in the control group on day 14 (P < .001). Serum creatinine had a similar profile in the cisplatin and NS groups as blood urea nitrogen. Serum triglyceride increased in the cisplatin and NS groups on day 14, but it decreased on day 42 (P < .05). Urine glucose concentration decreased in the cisplatin group on days 14 and 42 compared to day 0 (P < .001), and the same trend was seen in the NS group (P < .001). Histology of the kidneys exposed to cisplatin showed significant kidney injury, but the rats treated with NS showed a relatively well-preserved architecture. Conclusions. Cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity was confirmed in our study. Nigella sativa seeds had nonsignificant effects on biochemical parameters, although the histopathologic properties of the kidneys relatively recovered after NS use.
Journal of biologically active products from nature, 2011
The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of verjuice on atherosclerotic plaques and s... more The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of verjuice on atherosclerotic plaques and serum lipids in a mouse model. The animals were divided into 6 groups: Group A (positive control); Groups B (negative control) and C, D, E, F (experimental) all were fed with 2 % cholesterol in diet. Groups C (preventive) and D (treatment) were further treated with 7 ml/kg/day verjuice solution respectively from the first and the 42 nd days throughout the experiment. Groups E (preventive) and F (treatment) were also treated with 14 ml/kg/day of verjuice in the same way as C and D. The serum lipids were measured by enzymatic techniques.Serum LDL-C, HDL-C and total cholesterol levels were increased in negative control group vs positive control group. The use of verjuice as preventive regime increased the serum LDL levels in comparison to negative control group (P<0.05); but treatment with 14 ml/kg/day decreased triglyceride levels vs negative control group (P<0.05).Cholestrol regimen was not able to induce atherosclerotic plaques in mice.Verjuice as treatmentat dose of 14 ml/kg/day is useful in lowering of serum triglyceride but it can increase serum LDL as preventive regime. This animal model is not a proper one for the study of atherosclerosis.
DOAJ (DOAJ: Directory of Open Access Journals), Jul 1, 2011
Objective: This study was carried out to investigate the preventive effects of hydroalcoholic ext... more Objective: This study was carried out to investigate the preventive effects of hydroalcoholic extract of Cynodon dactylon (C.dactylon) roots on calcium oxalate calculi in rat. Materials and Methods: 24 Wistar rats were randomly divided into 4 groups: group A received tap drinking water while, Groups B, C, and D received 1% ethylene glycol daily for 28 days. Rats in groups C and D received ethanolic extract of C.dactylon at doses equivalent to 3.2 mg/kg and 12.6 mg/kg of root powder, respectively in drinking water from day 0 to day 28. Urine and blood were collected on days 0 and 28 and analyzed for biochemical elements. After 28 days, the kidneys were removed and prepared for histological evaluation of calcium oxalate deposits (CaOx). Results: The number of CaOx deposits in 10 microscopic fields of kidney slices in group B was 24.5 ± 4.40 which was significantly higher than group A (p<0.001). In group C, the number of deposits was significantly lower than group B. The weight of the kidneys was increased in group B vs group A (p<0.05). However, C.dactylon was able to decrease the weight of kidneys in group C (p<0.05). Urine oxalate level decreased in nephrolithiatic rats treated with the extract. Conclusion: This study showed that C. dactylon extract was able to reduce the growth of urinary stones in the rat. Therefore, the beneficial action of C.dactylon extract on human kidney stones may be suggested. However, further studies must clarify the mechanism.
Objective: Boswellia serrata oleo-gum resin (frankincense) exerted antioxidant and anti-inflammat... more Objective: Boswellia serrata oleo-gum resin (frankincense) exerted antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects against several diseases, such as; asthma, rheumatoid arthritis and irritable bowel syndrome. In the current study, the influences of B. serrata resin extract on motor dysfunction and oxidative stress markers were investigated in the intrastriatal 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) model of Parkinson's disease (PD). Materials and methods: The animals were randomly assigned to sham, lesion (6-OHDA), and three lesion groups treated with ethyl alcoholic extract of B. serrata at doses of 125, 250 and 500 mg/kg for 3 weeks. The neurotoxin 6-OHDA (12.5 µg) was microinjected into the left striatum to induce PD in male rats. Motor behavior was assessed by rotational and elevated narrow beam tests. Oxidative stress markers were measured in striatal and midbrain homogenates. Results: There was a significant increase in contralateral rotations in 6-OHDA group versus sham group (p<0.001), and treatment with B. serrata resin extract at doses of 125 and 250 mg/kg significantly decreased the rotations in comparison to 6-OHDA group (p<0.001 and p<0.001, respectively). The 6-OHDA group also showed considerable elevation in the latency to initiate crossing (p<0.001) and the total time (p<0.001) on narrow beam test. Moreover, treatment with B. serrata extract at doses of 125, 250 and 500 mg/kg caused a significant reduction in the latency and total time (p<0.001, p<0.001, and p<0.01, respectively). Biochemical analysis showed no significant difference in oxidative stress markers levels among the groups. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that B. serrata resin extract acts as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agent that protects nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons and improve motor impairments in PD.
Objective: Neuroinflammation and oxidative stress play essential roles in the pathogenesis and pr... more Objective: Neuroinflammation and oxidative stress play essential roles in the pathogenesis and progression of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease. Crocin, main active constituent of Crocus sativus L. (saffron), possesses anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic and anti-oxidative capacity. The aim of the present study was to investigate the neuroprotective effect of crocin on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced learning and memory deficits and neuroinflammation in rats. Materials and methods: The animals were randomly classified into four groups, including control, LPS, crocin 50 and crocin 100. The rats were treated with either crocin (50 and 100 mg/kg) or saline for a week. Later, LPS (1 mg/kg, i.p.) or saline was administered, and treatments with crocin or saline were continued for 3 more weeks. The behavioral tasks for spatial and aversive memories were performed by the Morris water maze and passive avoidance tasks from post-injection days 18 to 24. Furthermore, the levels of interleukine-1β, lipid peroxidation and total thiol were assayed in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex. Results: Our results demonstrated that treatment of LPS-treated rats with crocin decreased the escape latency in the Morris water maze and increased the time spent in the target quadrant in the probe trial. Moreover, crocin increased step-through latency in the passive avoidance test. However, there was no significant difference in the oxidative and neuroinflammatory responses among the experimental groups. Conclusion: Pretreatment with crocin attenuates spatial or aversive learning and memory deficits in LPS-treated rats.
Objective: Rheum turkestanicum (R. turkestanicum) rhizomes have been used in Iranain traditional ... more Objective: Rheum turkestanicum (R. turkestanicum) rhizomes have been used in Iranain traditional medicine as an anti-diabetic agent. The purpose of the present investigation was to evaluate the anti-diabetic and antioxidant activities of R. turkestanicum rhizome extract in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Materials and methods: Diabetes was induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of 55 mg/kg streptozotocin in male Wistar rats. Diabetic rats received the decoction extract of R. turkestanicum rhizomes at the doses of 200, 400 and 600 mg/kg daily by gavage for 3 weeks. Serum glucose and lipid levels were measured in all groups before diabetes induction and at the end of week 3. Oxidative stress was evaluated in the liver by measurement of malondialdehyde levels and total thiol concentration at the end of the experiment. Results: A significant increase in serum glucose and triglyceride levels was observed in diabetic rats, which was accompanied by increased malondialdehyde levels and decreased total thiol concentration in the liver after 3 weeks. Treatment of diabetic rats with R. turkestanicum rhizome extract at the doses of 200, 400 and 600 mg/kg over a 3-week period did not change serum glucose, hepatic malondialdehyde and total thiol levels in diabetic rats. However, treatment with R. turkestanicum extract significantly decreased serum triglyceride levels in a dose-dependent manner at the end of the experiment. Conclusion: R. turkestanicum rhizome extract possess anti-hypertriglyceridemic, but not hypoglycemic or hepatoprotective effect in diabetic rats. Therefore, R. turkestanicum rhizome should be consumed with more caution by diabetic patients.
Background: Crocin is considered to prevent oxidative stress-related diseases, such as ischemia a... more Background: Crocin is considered to prevent oxidative stress-related diseases, such as ischemia and Alzheimer's. The aim of the present investigation was to evaluate the effects of crocin on motor behaviour and 6-OHDA-induced oxidative/nitrosative damage to the striatum in an experimental model of Parkinson's disease. Methods: Left medial forebrain bundle was lesioned by microinjection of 6-OHDA (16μg in 0.2% ascorbate-saline). Crocin (30 and 60 mg/kg) was injected intraperitoneally three days before surgery until six weeks. Rotational behaviour and biochemical analysis were used to evaluate the effect of crocin in a unilateral 6-OHDA-induced model of Parkinson's disease. Results: The contralateral rotations induced by apomorphine in 6-OHDA lesioned group were highly significant (P < 0.001) as compared to the sham group. Moreover, chronic administration of crocin at doses of 30 and 60 mg/kg over six weeks did not change the rotations. The TBARS and nitrite levels in the striatum were also significantly (P < 0.05) increased in lesioned group. Treatment with crocin at a dose of 60 mg/kg significantly decreased the nitrite levels (P < 0.05) in the striatum. Conclusion: Crocin at a dose of 60 mg/kg could be effective in preventing the nitrosative damage in the striatum. Further investigations using higher doses of crocin is suggested to get the full neuroprotective effects of crocin in Parkinson's disease.
Levisticum officinale (Apiaceae) has been identified as a medicinal plant in traditional medicine... more Levisticum officinale (Apiaceae) has been identified as a medicinal plant in traditional medicine, with the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticholinesterase activities.
Purpose: To assess the beneficial effect of different fractions of Cynodon dactylon (C. dactylon)... more Purpose: To assess the beneficial effect of different fractions of Cynodon dactylon (C. dactylon) on ethylene glycol-induced kidney calculi in rats. Materials and methods: Male Wistar rats were randomly divided into control, ethylene glycol, curative, and preventive groups. The control group received tap drinking water for 35 days. Ethylene glycol, curative, and preventive groups received 1% ethylene glycol for induction of calcium oxalate (CaOx) calculus formation. Preventive and curative subjects also received different fractions of C. dactylon extract in drinking water at 12.8 mg/kg, since day 0 and day 14, respectively. After 35 days, the kidneys were removed and examined for histopathological findings and counting the CaOx deposits in 50 microscopic fields. Results: In curative protocol, treatment of rats with C. dactylon N-butanol fraction and N-butanol phase remnant significantly reduced the number of the kidney CaOx deposits compared to ethylene glycol group. In preventive protocol, treatment of rats with C. dactylon ethyl acetate fraction significantly decreased the number of CaOx deposits compared to ethylene glycol group. Conclusion: Fractions of C. dactylon showed a beneficial effect on preventing and eliminating CaOx deposition in the rat kidney. These results provide a scientific rational for preventive and treatment roles of C. dactylon in human kidney stone disease.
DOAJ (DOAJ: Directory of Open Access Journals), Aug 1, 2014
Hyperglycemia, oxidative stress and apoptosis have key roles in pathogenesis of diabetic neuropat... more Hyperglycemia, oxidative stress and apoptosis have key roles in pathogenesis of diabetic neuropathy. There are local renin-angiotensin systems (RASs) in different tissues such as neural tissue. Local RASs are involved in physiological and pathophysiological processes such as inflammation, proliferation and apoptosis. This study aimed to investigate the role of local renin-angiotensin system on high glucose-induced cell toxicity, apoptosis and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in PC12 cells, as a cell model of diabetic neuropathy. Materials and Methods: PC12 cells were exposed to a high glucose concentration (27 mg/ml), captopril (ACE inhibitor), telmisartan and losartan (AT1 antagonists), and also PD123319 (AT2 antagonist) were administered before and after induction of high glucose toxicity. Then cell viability was assessed by MTT assay and apoptotic cells and intracellular ROS production were detected by annexin V-propidium iodide and DCFDA, respectively, using flow cytometry. Results: High glucose concentration decreased cell viability, and increased apoptotic cells. Intracellular ROS production was also increased. In PC12 cells pretreatment and treatment by the drugs showed a significant improvement in cell viability and reduced apoptosis in captopril, telmisartan and PD123319 but only captopril and telmisartan were able to reduce ROS production. Losrtan significantly lowered ROS but didn't show any improvements in cell viability and apoptotic cells. Conclusion: The results of the present study showed that RAS inhibitors reduced cell toxicity and apoptosis and ROS production was induced by high glucose. It may be suggested that local RAS has a role in high glucose toxicity.
The motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease (PD) are preceded by non-motorized symptoms including m... more The motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease (PD) are preceded by non-motorized symptoms including memory deficits. Treatment with dopamine replacement medications, such as L-DOPA only control motor symptoms and does not meet the clinical challenges of the disease, such as dyskinesia, non-motor symptoms, and neuroprotection. The purpose of the current study was to examine the neuroprotective potential of crocin and physical exercise in an animal model of PD. Male Wistar rats ran on a horizontal treadmill and/or pretreated with crocin at a dose of 100 mg/kg. Then, 16 μg of the neurotoxin 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) was microinjected into left medial forebrain bundle. Crocin treatment and/or exercise continued for 6 more weeks. Spatial and aversive memories, rotational behaviour, inflammatory and oxidative stress parameters were assessed at the end of week 6 post surgery. The results showed that pretreatment with crocin alone and in combination with exercise decreased the total number of rotaions as compared with 6-OHDA-lesioned group. Furthermore, treatment of parkinsonian rats with crocin along with exercise training improved aversive and spatial memories. Biochemical analysis showed that crocin and exercise (alone and in combination) reduced tumor necrosis factor-(TNF) α levels in the striatum. Moreover, treatment with crocin at a dose of 100 mg/kg decreased the lipid peroxidation levels in the hippocampus, while exercise training increased the total thiol concentration. In conclusion, our findings indicated that pretreatment with crocin along with treadmill exercise ameliorated motor and memory deficits induced by 6-OHDA, which is considered to be due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. The results suggest that combined therapy with crocin and exercise may be protective for motor and memory deficits in PD patients.
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a chronic neurodegenerative disorder, which is caused mainly by the d... more Parkinson's disease (PD) is a chronic neurodegenerative disorder, which is caused mainly by the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra, leading to motor dysfunctions such as resting tremor, muscle rigidity and bradykinesia 1. In addition to motor dysfunctions, cognitive deficits such as learning and memory impairments and dementia are seen in a high percentage of PD patients 2. The proportion of PD patients with dementia is 25-30%, up to six times higher than in healthy people 3. Moreover, PD patients suffer from painful sensations that have been described as five different types: musculoskeletal pain (due to parkinsonian rigidity, rheumatological disease or skeletal deformity), radicular-neuropathic pain (due to a root lesion, focal or peripheral neuropathy), dystonic pain (related to antiparkinsonian medication), central neuropathic pain (related to antiparkinsonian medication) and akathisia (during offperiods or drug induced) 4. Pharmacotherapy with L-DOPA and DOPA-decarboxylase inhibitors is still the most effective treatment for motor symptoms, but this type of therapy has no effect on cognitive deficits in PD 5,6. Considering the clear impact of cognitive deficits on the quality of the PD patient's life, it is valuable to investigate the treatments affecting non-motor symptoms, such as cognitive deficits and pain, in animal models of PD. Carvacrol (CAR, 2-methyl-5-isopropylphenol) is a phenolic monoterpene abundantly present in the essential oil of the
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a heterogeneous neurodegenerative disorder characterized by loss of d... more Parkinson's disease (PD) is a heterogeneous neurodegenerative disorder characterized by loss of dopaminergic nigrostriatal neurons and clinical symptoms, such as resting tremor, rigidity, akinesia, and disturbances of postural
Introduction: Neuroinflammation and oxidative stress play critical roles in the pathophysiology o... more Introduction: Neuroinflammation and oxidative stress play critical roles in the pathophysiology of Parkinson's disease (PD), and neuroprotective agents could be helpful to slow down the dopaminergic neurodegeneration. Neuroprotective and antioxidant properties of exercise and sesamol have been previously reported. The current research evaluated the influences of sesamol and exercise on memory and motor impairments, oxidative stress and inflammatory markers in an experimental model of PD. Methods: 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) was microinjected into the medial forebrain bundle of male rats. Treatment with sesamol (50mg/kg) or treadmill exercise was performed for 7 weeks. Behavioral and biochemical assessments were performed at the end of 6th week after 6-OHDA injection. Results: Net number of rotations and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α level was significantly enhanced in 6-OHDA group in comparison with sham group. Also, step-through latency was decreased in this group along with increased lipid peroxidation and decreased total thiol levels in the hippocampus. Moreover, sesamol and exercise, alone or in combination, improved rotational behavior, which was accompanied by decreased striatal TNF-α level. However, sesamol and/or treadmill exercise had no effect on aversive memory, although exercise enhanced hippocampal total thiol level. Conclusion: Beneficial properties of sesamol and treadmill exercise for amelioration of motor impairments might be due to their anti-inflammatory activities.
Neuroinflammation is implicated in the pathogenesis of many neurodegenerative disorders, includin... more Neuroinflammation is implicated in the pathogenesis of many neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease and multiple schlerosis (Frank-Cannon et al., 2009; Block and Hong, 2005). AD is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder which associated with memory loss, spatial disorientation and deterioration of intellectual capacity (Carrero et al., 2012) and the fourth leading cause of death in developed countries (Ray and Lahiri, 2009). Neuroinflammation stimulates glial cells (astrocytes and microglia) to produce
Brain in ammation and oxidative stress play a critical role in the neuronal apoptosis and memory ... more Brain in ammation and oxidative stress play a critical role in the neuronal apoptosis and memory dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease. Crocin is a natural carotenoid present in the stigma of saffron which possesses radical scavenging, anti-in ammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties. The present study examined the protective impact of crocin on neuronal apoptosis, oxidative stress, neuroin ammation and memory de cits induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in rats. Wistar rats received crocin at a dose of 100 mg/kg for 12 days. Besides, LPS (1 mg/kg, ip) was injected on days 8-12. Spatial memory was evaluated in the Morris water maze, two hours after LPS injection on days 8-12. Gene expression of nuclear factor (NF)-κB, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), caspase 3 and lipid peroxidation was assessed in the hippocampal homogenates at the end of behavioral test. Histopathological changes in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex was evaluated using H&E staining. According to results, administration of LPS caused spatial memory dysfunction accompanied by upregulation of mRNA expression of NF-κB, TNF-α and caspase 3 as well as increased lipid peroxidation and tissue damge in the hippocampus. Furthermore, crocin treatment at a dose of 100 mg/kg attenuated memory impairments, downregulated the mRNA expression of NF-κB, TNF-α and caspase 3 and decreased lipid peroxidation in the hippocampus. Crocin also ameliorated LPS-induced pathological changes and neuronal loss in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex. In conclusion, neuroprotective effects of crocin against LPS-induced histopathological and behavioural changes could be attributed to its anti-apoptotic, anti-in ammatory and radical-scavenging activities in the rat brain.
Objective: Sesamol is a phenolic lignan extracted from sesame seeds, and it possesses anti-inflam... more Objective: Sesamol is a phenolic lignan extracted from sesame seeds, and it possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is known to produce neuroinflammatory responses and memory impairment. The current study aimed to investigate the protective influence of sesamol against LPS-mediated neuroinflammation and memory impairment. Materials and methods: Sesamol (10 and 50 mg/kg) was injected to Wistar rats for two weeks. Then, animals received LPS injection (1 mg/kg) for five days, while treatment with sesamol was performed 30 min before LPS injection. Spatial learning and memory were assessed by the Morris water maze (MWM), two hours after LPS injection on days 15-19. Biochemical assessments were performed after the end of behavioral experiments. Results: LPS-administered rats showed spatial learning and memory deficits, since they spent more time in the MWM to find the hidden platform and less time in the target quadrant. Besides these behavioral changes, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and lipid peroxidation levels were increased, while total thiol level was decreased in the hippocampus and/or cerebral cortex. In addition, sesamol treatment (50 mg/kg) for three weeks decreased the escape latency and increased the time on probe trial. Sesamol also reduced lipid peroxidation and TNF-α level, while enhanced total thiol level in the brain of LPS-exposed rats. Conclusion: Supplementation of sesamol attenuated learning and memory impairments in LPS-treated rats via antioxidative and anti-inflammatory activities in the rat brain.
The aim of this study was to test whether Nigella sativa (NS) seeds can reduce cisplatin-induced ... more The aim of this study was to test whether Nigella sativa (NS) seeds can reduce cisplatin-induced toxicity. Materials and Methods. Thirty rats were divided into 3 groups to receive distilled water (control group), cisplatin (3 mg/kg per body weight for 3 days), and cisplatin and alcoholic extract of NS (100 mg/kg per body weight). Biochemical and histopathologic parameters were compared between the three groups on days 14 and 42 of the study. Results. Blood urea nitrogen increased in the cisplatin and NS groups on days 14 and 42 compared to day 0 (P < .001). It was significantly in the cisplatin than in the control group on day 14 (P < .001). Serum creatinine had a similar profile in the cisplatin and NS groups as blood urea nitrogen. Serum triglyceride increased in the cisplatin and NS groups on day 14, but it decreased on day 42 (P < .05). Urine glucose concentration decreased in the cisplatin group on days 14 and 42 compared to day 0 (P < .001), and the same trend was seen in the NS group (P < .001). Histology of the kidneys exposed to cisplatin showed significant kidney injury, but the rats treated with NS showed a relatively well-preserved architecture. Conclusions. Cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity was confirmed in our study. Nigella sativa seeds had nonsignificant effects on biochemical parameters, although the histopathologic properties of the kidneys relatively recovered after NS use.
Journal of biologically active products from nature, 2011
The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of verjuice on atherosclerotic plaques and s... more The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of verjuice on atherosclerotic plaques and serum lipids in a mouse model. The animals were divided into 6 groups: Group A (positive control); Groups B (negative control) and C, D, E, F (experimental) all were fed with 2 % cholesterol in diet. Groups C (preventive) and D (treatment) were further treated with 7 ml/kg/day verjuice solution respectively from the first and the 42 nd days throughout the experiment. Groups E (preventive) and F (treatment) were also treated with 14 ml/kg/day of verjuice in the same way as C and D. The serum lipids were measured by enzymatic techniques.Serum LDL-C, HDL-C and total cholesterol levels were increased in negative control group vs positive control group. The use of verjuice as preventive regime increased the serum LDL levels in comparison to negative control group (P<0.05); but treatment with 14 ml/kg/day decreased triglyceride levels vs negative control group (P<0.05).Cholestrol regimen was not able to induce atherosclerotic plaques in mice.Verjuice as treatmentat dose of 14 ml/kg/day is useful in lowering of serum triglyceride but it can increase serum LDL as preventive regime. This animal model is not a proper one for the study of atherosclerosis.
DOAJ (DOAJ: Directory of Open Access Journals), Jul 1, 2011
Objective: This study was carried out to investigate the preventive effects of hydroalcoholic ext... more Objective: This study was carried out to investigate the preventive effects of hydroalcoholic extract of Cynodon dactylon (C.dactylon) roots on calcium oxalate calculi in rat. Materials and Methods: 24 Wistar rats were randomly divided into 4 groups: group A received tap drinking water while, Groups B, C, and D received 1% ethylene glycol daily for 28 days. Rats in groups C and D received ethanolic extract of C.dactylon at doses equivalent to 3.2 mg/kg and 12.6 mg/kg of root powder, respectively in drinking water from day 0 to day 28. Urine and blood were collected on days 0 and 28 and analyzed for biochemical elements. After 28 days, the kidneys were removed and prepared for histological evaluation of calcium oxalate deposits (CaOx). Results: The number of CaOx deposits in 10 microscopic fields of kidney slices in group B was 24.5 ± 4.40 which was significantly higher than group A (p<0.001). In group C, the number of deposits was significantly lower than group B. The weight of the kidneys was increased in group B vs group A (p<0.05). However, C.dactylon was able to decrease the weight of kidneys in group C (p<0.05). Urine oxalate level decreased in nephrolithiatic rats treated with the extract. Conclusion: This study showed that C. dactylon extract was able to reduce the growth of urinary stones in the rat. Therefore, the beneficial action of C.dactylon extract on human kidney stones may be suggested. However, further studies must clarify the mechanism.
Objective: Boswellia serrata oleo-gum resin (frankincense) exerted antioxidant and anti-inflammat... more Objective: Boswellia serrata oleo-gum resin (frankincense) exerted antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects against several diseases, such as; asthma, rheumatoid arthritis and irritable bowel syndrome. In the current study, the influences of B. serrata resin extract on motor dysfunction and oxidative stress markers were investigated in the intrastriatal 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) model of Parkinson's disease (PD). Materials and methods: The animals were randomly assigned to sham, lesion (6-OHDA), and three lesion groups treated with ethyl alcoholic extract of B. serrata at doses of 125, 250 and 500 mg/kg for 3 weeks. The neurotoxin 6-OHDA (12.5 µg) was microinjected into the left striatum to induce PD in male rats. Motor behavior was assessed by rotational and elevated narrow beam tests. Oxidative stress markers were measured in striatal and midbrain homogenates. Results: There was a significant increase in contralateral rotations in 6-OHDA group versus sham group (p<0.001), and treatment with B. serrata resin extract at doses of 125 and 250 mg/kg significantly decreased the rotations in comparison to 6-OHDA group (p<0.001 and p<0.001, respectively). The 6-OHDA group also showed considerable elevation in the latency to initiate crossing (p<0.001) and the total time (p<0.001) on narrow beam test. Moreover, treatment with B. serrata extract at doses of 125, 250 and 500 mg/kg caused a significant reduction in the latency and total time (p<0.001, p<0.001, and p<0.01, respectively). Biochemical analysis showed no significant difference in oxidative stress markers levels among the groups. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that B. serrata resin extract acts as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agent that protects nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons and improve motor impairments in PD.
Objective: Neuroinflammation and oxidative stress play essential roles in the pathogenesis and pr... more Objective: Neuroinflammation and oxidative stress play essential roles in the pathogenesis and progression of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease. Crocin, main active constituent of Crocus sativus L. (saffron), possesses anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic and anti-oxidative capacity. The aim of the present study was to investigate the neuroprotective effect of crocin on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced learning and memory deficits and neuroinflammation in rats. Materials and methods: The animals were randomly classified into four groups, including control, LPS, crocin 50 and crocin 100. The rats were treated with either crocin (50 and 100 mg/kg) or saline for a week. Later, LPS (1 mg/kg, i.p.) or saline was administered, and treatments with crocin or saline were continued for 3 more weeks. The behavioral tasks for spatial and aversive memories were performed by the Morris water maze and passive avoidance tasks from post-injection days 18 to 24. Furthermore, the levels of interleukine-1β, lipid peroxidation and total thiol were assayed in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex. Results: Our results demonstrated that treatment of LPS-treated rats with crocin decreased the escape latency in the Morris water maze and increased the time spent in the target quadrant in the probe trial. Moreover, crocin increased step-through latency in the passive avoidance test. However, there was no significant difference in the oxidative and neuroinflammatory responses among the experimental groups. Conclusion: Pretreatment with crocin attenuates spatial or aversive learning and memory deficits in LPS-treated rats.
Objective: Rheum turkestanicum (R. turkestanicum) rhizomes have been used in Iranain traditional ... more Objective: Rheum turkestanicum (R. turkestanicum) rhizomes have been used in Iranain traditional medicine as an anti-diabetic agent. The purpose of the present investigation was to evaluate the anti-diabetic and antioxidant activities of R. turkestanicum rhizome extract in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Materials and methods: Diabetes was induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of 55 mg/kg streptozotocin in male Wistar rats. Diabetic rats received the decoction extract of R. turkestanicum rhizomes at the doses of 200, 400 and 600 mg/kg daily by gavage for 3 weeks. Serum glucose and lipid levels were measured in all groups before diabetes induction and at the end of week 3. Oxidative stress was evaluated in the liver by measurement of malondialdehyde levels and total thiol concentration at the end of the experiment. Results: A significant increase in serum glucose and triglyceride levels was observed in diabetic rats, which was accompanied by increased malondialdehyde levels and decreased total thiol concentration in the liver after 3 weeks. Treatment of diabetic rats with R. turkestanicum rhizome extract at the doses of 200, 400 and 600 mg/kg over a 3-week period did not change serum glucose, hepatic malondialdehyde and total thiol levels in diabetic rats. However, treatment with R. turkestanicum extract significantly decreased serum triglyceride levels in a dose-dependent manner at the end of the experiment. Conclusion: R. turkestanicum rhizome extract possess anti-hypertriglyceridemic, but not hypoglycemic or hepatoprotective effect in diabetic rats. Therefore, R. turkestanicum rhizome should be consumed with more caution by diabetic patients.
Background: Crocin is considered to prevent oxidative stress-related diseases, such as ischemia a... more Background: Crocin is considered to prevent oxidative stress-related diseases, such as ischemia and Alzheimer's. The aim of the present investigation was to evaluate the effects of crocin on motor behaviour and 6-OHDA-induced oxidative/nitrosative damage to the striatum in an experimental model of Parkinson's disease. Methods: Left medial forebrain bundle was lesioned by microinjection of 6-OHDA (16μg in 0.2% ascorbate-saline). Crocin (30 and 60 mg/kg) was injected intraperitoneally three days before surgery until six weeks. Rotational behaviour and biochemical analysis were used to evaluate the effect of crocin in a unilateral 6-OHDA-induced model of Parkinson's disease. Results: The contralateral rotations induced by apomorphine in 6-OHDA lesioned group were highly significant (P < 0.001) as compared to the sham group. Moreover, chronic administration of crocin at doses of 30 and 60 mg/kg over six weeks did not change the rotations. The TBARS and nitrite levels in the striatum were also significantly (P < 0.05) increased in lesioned group. Treatment with crocin at a dose of 60 mg/kg significantly decreased the nitrite levels (P < 0.05) in the striatum. Conclusion: Crocin at a dose of 60 mg/kg could be effective in preventing the nitrosative damage in the striatum. Further investigations using higher doses of crocin is suggested to get the full neuroprotective effects of crocin in Parkinson's disease.
Levisticum officinale (Apiaceae) has been identified as a medicinal plant in traditional medicine... more Levisticum officinale (Apiaceae) has been identified as a medicinal plant in traditional medicine, with the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticholinesterase activities.
Purpose: To assess the beneficial effect of different fractions of Cynodon dactylon (C. dactylon)... more Purpose: To assess the beneficial effect of different fractions of Cynodon dactylon (C. dactylon) on ethylene glycol-induced kidney calculi in rats. Materials and methods: Male Wistar rats were randomly divided into control, ethylene glycol, curative, and preventive groups. The control group received tap drinking water for 35 days. Ethylene glycol, curative, and preventive groups received 1% ethylene glycol for induction of calcium oxalate (CaOx) calculus formation. Preventive and curative subjects also received different fractions of C. dactylon extract in drinking water at 12.8 mg/kg, since day 0 and day 14, respectively. After 35 days, the kidneys were removed and examined for histopathological findings and counting the CaOx deposits in 50 microscopic fields. Results: In curative protocol, treatment of rats with C. dactylon N-butanol fraction and N-butanol phase remnant significantly reduced the number of the kidney CaOx deposits compared to ethylene glycol group. In preventive protocol, treatment of rats with C. dactylon ethyl acetate fraction significantly decreased the number of CaOx deposits compared to ethylene glycol group. Conclusion: Fractions of C. dactylon showed a beneficial effect on preventing and eliminating CaOx deposition in the rat kidney. These results provide a scientific rational for preventive and treatment roles of C. dactylon in human kidney stone disease.
DOAJ (DOAJ: Directory of Open Access Journals), Aug 1, 2014
Hyperglycemia, oxidative stress and apoptosis have key roles in pathogenesis of diabetic neuropat... more Hyperglycemia, oxidative stress and apoptosis have key roles in pathogenesis of diabetic neuropathy. There are local renin-angiotensin systems (RASs) in different tissues such as neural tissue. Local RASs are involved in physiological and pathophysiological processes such as inflammation, proliferation and apoptosis. This study aimed to investigate the role of local renin-angiotensin system on high glucose-induced cell toxicity, apoptosis and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in PC12 cells, as a cell model of diabetic neuropathy. Materials and Methods: PC12 cells were exposed to a high glucose concentration (27 mg/ml), captopril (ACE inhibitor), telmisartan and losartan (AT1 antagonists), and also PD123319 (AT2 antagonist) were administered before and after induction of high glucose toxicity. Then cell viability was assessed by MTT assay and apoptotic cells and intracellular ROS production were detected by annexin V-propidium iodide and DCFDA, respectively, using flow cytometry. Results: High glucose concentration decreased cell viability, and increased apoptotic cells. Intracellular ROS production was also increased. In PC12 cells pretreatment and treatment by the drugs showed a significant improvement in cell viability and reduced apoptosis in captopril, telmisartan and PD123319 but only captopril and telmisartan were able to reduce ROS production. Losrtan significantly lowered ROS but didn't show any improvements in cell viability and apoptotic cells. Conclusion: The results of the present study showed that RAS inhibitors reduced cell toxicity and apoptosis and ROS production was induced by high glucose. It may be suggested that local RAS has a role in high glucose toxicity.
The motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease (PD) are preceded by non-motorized symptoms including m... more The motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease (PD) are preceded by non-motorized symptoms including memory deficits. Treatment with dopamine replacement medications, such as L-DOPA only control motor symptoms and does not meet the clinical challenges of the disease, such as dyskinesia, non-motor symptoms, and neuroprotection. The purpose of the current study was to examine the neuroprotective potential of crocin and physical exercise in an animal model of PD. Male Wistar rats ran on a horizontal treadmill and/or pretreated with crocin at a dose of 100 mg/kg. Then, 16 μg of the neurotoxin 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) was microinjected into left medial forebrain bundle. Crocin treatment and/or exercise continued for 6 more weeks. Spatial and aversive memories, rotational behaviour, inflammatory and oxidative stress parameters were assessed at the end of week 6 post surgery. The results showed that pretreatment with crocin alone and in combination with exercise decreased the total number of rotaions as compared with 6-OHDA-lesioned group. Furthermore, treatment of parkinsonian rats with crocin along with exercise training improved aversive and spatial memories. Biochemical analysis showed that crocin and exercise (alone and in combination) reduced tumor necrosis factor-(TNF) α levels in the striatum. Moreover, treatment with crocin at a dose of 100 mg/kg decreased the lipid peroxidation levels in the hippocampus, while exercise training increased the total thiol concentration. In conclusion, our findings indicated that pretreatment with crocin along with treadmill exercise ameliorated motor and memory deficits induced by 6-OHDA, which is considered to be due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. The results suggest that combined therapy with crocin and exercise may be protective for motor and memory deficits in PD patients.
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a chronic neurodegenerative disorder, which is caused mainly by the d... more Parkinson's disease (PD) is a chronic neurodegenerative disorder, which is caused mainly by the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra, leading to motor dysfunctions such as resting tremor, muscle rigidity and bradykinesia 1. In addition to motor dysfunctions, cognitive deficits such as learning and memory impairments and dementia are seen in a high percentage of PD patients 2. The proportion of PD patients with dementia is 25-30%, up to six times higher than in healthy people 3. Moreover, PD patients suffer from painful sensations that have been described as five different types: musculoskeletal pain (due to parkinsonian rigidity, rheumatological disease or skeletal deformity), radicular-neuropathic pain (due to a root lesion, focal or peripheral neuropathy), dystonic pain (related to antiparkinsonian medication), central neuropathic pain (related to antiparkinsonian medication) and akathisia (during offperiods or drug induced) 4. Pharmacotherapy with L-DOPA and DOPA-decarboxylase inhibitors is still the most effective treatment for motor symptoms, but this type of therapy has no effect on cognitive deficits in PD 5,6. Considering the clear impact of cognitive deficits on the quality of the PD patient's life, it is valuable to investigate the treatments affecting non-motor symptoms, such as cognitive deficits and pain, in animal models of PD. Carvacrol (CAR, 2-methyl-5-isopropylphenol) is a phenolic monoterpene abundantly present in the essential oil of the
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a heterogeneous neurodegenerative disorder characterized by loss of d... more Parkinson's disease (PD) is a heterogeneous neurodegenerative disorder characterized by loss of dopaminergic nigrostriatal neurons and clinical symptoms, such as resting tremor, rigidity, akinesia, and disturbances of postural
Introduction: Neuroinflammation and oxidative stress play critical roles in the pathophysiology o... more Introduction: Neuroinflammation and oxidative stress play critical roles in the pathophysiology of Parkinson's disease (PD), and neuroprotective agents could be helpful to slow down the dopaminergic neurodegeneration. Neuroprotective and antioxidant properties of exercise and sesamol have been previously reported. The current research evaluated the influences of sesamol and exercise on memory and motor impairments, oxidative stress and inflammatory markers in an experimental model of PD. Methods: 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) was microinjected into the medial forebrain bundle of male rats. Treatment with sesamol (50mg/kg) or treadmill exercise was performed for 7 weeks. Behavioral and biochemical assessments were performed at the end of 6th week after 6-OHDA injection. Results: Net number of rotations and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α level was significantly enhanced in 6-OHDA group in comparison with sham group. Also, step-through latency was decreased in this group along with increased lipid peroxidation and decreased total thiol levels in the hippocampus. Moreover, sesamol and exercise, alone or in combination, improved rotational behavior, which was accompanied by decreased striatal TNF-α level. However, sesamol and/or treadmill exercise had no effect on aversive memory, although exercise enhanced hippocampal total thiol level. Conclusion: Beneficial properties of sesamol and treadmill exercise for amelioration of motor impairments might be due to their anti-inflammatory activities.
Neuroinflammation is implicated in the pathogenesis of many neurodegenerative disorders, includin... more Neuroinflammation is implicated in the pathogenesis of many neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease and multiple schlerosis (Frank-Cannon et al., 2009; Block and Hong, 2005). AD is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder which associated with memory loss, spatial disorientation and deterioration of intellectual capacity (Carrero et al., 2012) and the fourth leading cause of death in developed countries (Ray and Lahiri, 2009). Neuroinflammation stimulates glial cells (astrocytes and microglia) to produce
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