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Nabipour, A. ,
Darban maghami, N. ,
Moghadam jafari, A. ,
Moosavi, Z. Iranian Journal Of Toxicology (22519459) 19(1)pp. 45-51
Background: Aluminum is a potent inhibitor of numerous cation-dependent biological processes. Traditional medical practitioners have used plant extracts for the treatment of liver disorders for centuries. The present study aimed to assess the hepatoprotective activity of hydroalcoholic extract of Cichorium intybus L. against aluminum chloride (AlCl3)-induced toxicity in rats. Methods:The hepatoprotective activity of extracts (hydroalcoholic extract) at 50 mg/kg body weight was compared with Alcl3-treated animals. The animals were assigned to four groups with seven animals in each group. The first group represents control, the second group received aluminum chloride, the third group received C. intybus extract, and the fourth group received C. intybus plus aluminum chloride. The duration of the injection was 15 days. The injection was administered by intraperitoneal method and the sampling was performed one week after the last injection. Results: There were significant changes in serum biochemical parameters, such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) enzyme in Alcl3-intoxicated mice, which were restored towards normal values in C. intybus-treated animals. Histopathological examination of liver tissues further substantiated these findings. Conclusion: The results ascertain that the herb extracts of C. intybus possess significant hepatoprotective activity. © 2025 Arak University of Medical Sciences. All rights reserved.
Aminifard, T. ,
Mehri, S. ,
Khajavirad, A. ,
Moosavi, Z. ,
Hosseinian, S. ,
Hosseinzadeh, H. Naunyn-Schmiedeberg's Archives of Pharmacology (00281298)
Rhabdomyolysis (RM) is a clinical disorder characterized by the release of potentially toxic muscle cell components into the bloodstream, with acute kidney injury (AKI). Trans-sodium crocetinate (TSC) is derived from the carotenoid crocetin known for its renoprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. This study aimed to assess the protective effects of TSC on RM-induced AKI in rats. Six groups of rats (n = 6) were used: control, AKI (50% glycerol 10 mL/kg, intramuscularly), AKI treated with TSC (10, 20, and 40 mg/kg, intraperitoneally), and TSC (40 mg/kg) alone groups. Two days after the initial injection, urine and blood samples were collected over 24 h to investigate creatine phosphokinase (CPK), kidney function markers, and electrolyte levels. Additionally, kidney tissue was collected to assess renal oxidative markers, histological alterations, and the expression of protein markers related to autophagy, apoptosis, renal injury, inflammation, and the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. After glycerol administration, there was an increase in oxidative stress, autophagy, apoptosis, renal injury, and inflammatory marker levels, accompanied by a decrease in the proteins of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in the kidney. The co-administration of TSC with glycerol resulted in the improvement of renal dysfunction and structural abnormalities, achieved through a reduction in oxidative stress. TSC also down-regulated autophagy, apoptotic, renal injury, and inflammatory markers. Furthermore, TSC treatment led to a decrease in the renal expression of PI3K/AKT signaling pathway proteins. In conclusion, TSC exhibited a protective effect against RM-induced AKI by modulating oxidative stress, autophagy, apoptosis, and the PI3K/AKT pathway. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature 2025.
Banaeeyeh, S. ,
Afkhami-goli, A. ,
Moosavi, Z. ,
Razavi, B.M. ,
Hosseinzadeh, H. Metabolic Brain Disease (15737365) 39(5)pp. 783-801
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by the degeneration of myelin and inflammation in the central nervous system. Trans sodium crocetinate (TSC), a novel synthetic carotenoid compound, possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects. This study aimed to evaluate the protective effects of TSC against the development of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), a well-established model for MS. Female BALB/C57 mice were divided into different groups, including control, EAE, vehicle, TSC-treated (25, 50, and 100 mg/kg, administered via gavage) + EAE, methyl prednisone acetate + EAE, and TSC-treated (100 mg/kg, administered via gavage for 28 days) groups. EAE was induced using MOG35-55, complete Freund’s adjuvant, and pertussis toxin. In the mice spinal cord tissues, the oxidative markers (GSH and MDA) were measured using spectrophotometry and histological evaluation was performed. Mitophagic pathway proteins (PINK1and PARKIN) and inflammatory factors (IL-1β and TNF-α) were evaluated by western blot. Following 21 days post-induction, EAE mice exhibited weight loss, and the paralysis scores increased on day 13 but recovered after TSC (100 mg/kg) administration on day 16. Furthermore, TSC (50 and 100 mg/kg) reversed the altered levels of MDA and GSH in the spinal cord tissue of EAE mice. TSC (100 mg/kg) also decreased microgliosis, demyelination, and the levels of inflammatory markers IL-1β and TNF-α. Notably, TSC (100 mg/kg) modulated the mitophagy pathway by reducing PINK1 and Parkin protein levels. These findings demonstrate that TSC protects spinal cord tissue against EAE-induced MS through anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-mitophagy mechanisms. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature 2024.
Najafi, N. ,
Barangi, S. ,
Moosavi, Z. ,
Aghaee-bakhtiari, S.H. ,
Mehri, S. ,
Karimi, G. Biological Trace Element Research (15590720) 202(11)pp. 5306-5306
Figure 2a in the original version of this article has been replaced. The original article has been corrected. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature 2023.
Najafi, Z. ,
Moosavi, Z. ,
Baradaran rahimi, V. ,
Hashemitabar, G. ,
Askari, V.R. International Immunopharmacology (18781705) 130
During tendinopathy, prolonged inflammation results in fibrosis and the adherence of tendons to the adjacent tissues, causing discomfort and movement disorders. As a natural compound, noscapine has several anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic properties. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the effects of noscapine against a rat model of tendinopathy. We created a surgical rat model of Achilles tendon damage to emulate tendinopathy. Briefly, an incision was made on the Achilles tendon, and it was then sutured using an absorbable surgical thread. Immediately, the injured area was topically treated with the vehicle, noscapine (0.2, 0.6, and 1.8 mg/kg), or dexamethasone (0.1 mg/kg) as a positive control. During the 19-day follow-up period, animals were assessed for weight, behavior, pain, and motor coordination testing. On day 20th, the rats were sacrificed, and the tendon tissue was isolated for macroscopic scoring, microscopic (H&E, Masson's trichrome, Ki67, p53) analyses, and cytokine secretion levels. The levels of macroscopic parameters, including thermal hyperalgesia, mechanical and cold allodynia, deterioration of motor coordination, tendon adhesion score, and microscopic indices, namely histological adhesion, vascular prominence and angiogenesis, and Ki67 and p53 levels, as well as fibrotic and inflammatory biomarkers (IL-6, TNF-α, TGF-β, VEGF) were significantly increased in the vehicle group compared to the sham group (P < 0.05–0.001 for all cases). In contrast, the administration of noscapine (0.2, 0.6, and 1.8 mg/kg) attenuated the pain, fibrosis, and inflammatory indices in a dose-dependent manner compared to the vehicle group (P < 0.05–0.001). Histological research indicated that noscapine 0.6 and 1.8 mg/kg had the most remarkable healing effects. Interestingly, two higher doses of noscapine had impacts similar to those of the positive control group in both clinical and paraclinical assessments. Taken together, our findings suggested that noscapine could be a promising medicine for treating tendinopathies. © 2024 Elsevier B.V.
Khodadadi, F. ,
Moosavi, Z. ,
Sadr, S. ,
Mirshahi, A. ,
Mehrjerdi, H.K. Iranian Journal Of Veterinary Surgery (26766299) 19(1)pp. 36-42
Osteoporosis is characterized by a reduction of bone mass and destruction of bone structures, followed by high bone fragility and susceptibility. This study aims to evaluate the protective effects of pomegranate seed oil (PSO) on experimental osteoporosis in rats. Twenty-four female Wistar rats were divided into four groups: sham-operated (Sham = 6), Sham with PSO treatment (Sham+PSO = 6), ovariectomized (OVX = 6), and ovariectomized with PSO treatment (OVX+PSO = 6). OVX+PSO and Sham+PSO groups received 0.1 ml of pomegranate juice daily, and OVX and Sham groups received the same amount of paraffin oil. After eight weeks, the femur and tibia bones were removed, and the structure and metabolism of samples were assessed by histological examination. The average thickness of femoral neck trabeculae in group OVX was significantly lower than in groups Sham+PSO and Sham (p < 0.05). Regarding the number of trabeculae in the neck of the femur, a significant difference was observed between groups OVX and Sham+PSO (p < 0.05). Furthermore, trabecular separation in group OVX was significantly more than in the other three groups (p < 0.05). The trabecular separation in group OVX+PSO compared to groups Sham+PSO and Sham was significantly higher (p < 0.05). A histopathologic examination of the upper metaphysis of the tibia indicated that the number of bone trabeculae in Sham+PSO was only statistically significant in the OVX group (p = 0.018). It was also found that the average thickness of bone trabeculae in the OVX+PSO and Sham groups was significantly lower than in the Sham+SO group. The results of the present study suggest that pomegranate seed oil, having estrogenic compounds, can prevent osteoporosis in rats caused by ovariectomy. © Iranian Veterinary Surgery Association, 2024.
Veterinary Research Forum (20088140) 15(10)pp. 559-564
Hydropericardium syndrome (HPS) has caused significant financial losses to the Iranian poultry industry in the past few years. Thirty-two broiler chickens with gross lesions of HPS were inspected histologically and immunohistochemically. Sampling was performed in Sabzevar, Iran. The dead and sick birds from random farms were subjected to necropsy examinations. Only four broiler chickens had no hydropericardium and the other gross findings were similar for birds. Basophilic and eosinophilic intranuclear inclusions, hemorrhages and necrosis in different organs were the primary characteristic histologic lesions. Lymphoid depletion, goblet cell hyperplasia and necrotizing enteritis were some of the findings reported in previous research. Low macrophage infiltration rate and brain lesions were other discoveries in Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) examination. Feulgen reaction and Cluster of Differentiation 68 (CD68) immunohistochemical staining were used for a comprehensive investigation and these techniques revealed improved histopathologic details. Feulgen staining confirmed brain lesions and some other changes in different organs. Eventually, the CD68 method revealed low macrophage presence in most organs. This study suggested that HPS might cause brain damage and the susceptibility of the Arian breed to the adenovirus needs further investigation. © 2024 Urmia University. All rights reserved.
Najafi, N. ,
Barangi, S. ,
Moosavi, Z. ,
Aghaee-bakhtiari, S.H. ,
Mehri, S. ,
Karimi, G. Biological Trace Element Research (15590720) 202(7)pp. 3163-3179
Arsenic (As) exposure is known to cause several neurological disorders through various molecular mechanisms such as oxidative stress, apoptosis, and autophagy. In the current study, we assessed the effect of melatonin (Mel) on As-induced neurotoxicity. Thirty male Wistar rat were treated daily for 28 consecutive days. As (15 mg/kg, gavage) and Mel (10 and 20 mg/kg, i.p.) were administered to rats. Morris water maze test was done to evaluate learning and memory impairment in training days and probe trial. Oxidative stress markers including MDA and GSH levels, SOD activity, and HO-1 levels were measured. Besides, the levels of apoptosis (caspase 3, Bax/Bcl2 ratio) and autophagy markers (Sirt1, Beclin-1, and LC3 II/I ratio) as well as the expression of miR-144 and miR-34a in cortex tissue were determined. As exposure disturbed learning and memory in animals and Mel alleviated these effects. Also, Mel recovered cortex pathological damages and oxidative stress induced by As. Furthermore, As increased the levels of apoptosis and autophagy proteins in cortex, while Mel (20 mg/kg) decreased apoptosis and autophagy. Also, Mel increased the expression of miR-144 and miR-34a which inhibited by As. In conclusion, Mel administration attenuated As-induced neurotoxicity through anti-oxidative, anti-apoptotic, and anti-autophagy mechanisms, which may be recommended as a therapeutic target for neurological disorders. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature 2023.
Barangi, S. ,
Mehri, S. ,
Moosavi, Z. ,
Yarmohammadi, F. ,
Hayes, A.W. ,
Karimi, G. Journal of Biochemical and Molecular Toxicology (10956670) 38(1)
Arsenic is a toxic metalloid found in the environment in different organic and inorganic forms. Molecular mechanisms implicated in arsenic hepatotoxicity are complex but include oxidative stress, apoptosis, and autophagy. The current study focused on the potential protective capacity of melatonin against arsenic-induced hepatotoxicity. Thirty-six male Wistar rats were allocated into control, arsenic (15 mg/kg; orally), arsenic (15 mg/kg) plus melatonin (10, 20, and 30 mg/kg; intraperitoneally), and melatonin alone (30 mg/kg) groups for 28 days. After the treatment period, the serum sample was separated to measure liver enzymes (AST and ALT). The liver tissue was removed and then histological alterations, oxidative stress markers, antioxidant capacity, the levels of Nrf2 and HO-1, apoptosis (Bcl-2, survivin, Mcl1, Bax, and caspase-3), and autophagy (Sirt1, Beclin-1, and LC3 II/I ratio) proteins, as well as the expression level of miR-34a, were evaluated on this tissue. Arsenic exposure resulted in the enhancement of serum AST, ALT, and substantial histological damage in the liver. Increased levels of malondialdehyde, a lipid peroxidation marker, and decreased levels of physiological antioxidants including glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and catalase were indicators of arsenic-induced oxidative damage. The levels of Nrf2, HO-1, and antiapoptotic proteins diminished, while proapoptotic and autophagy proteins were elevated in the arsenic group concomitant with a low level of hepatic miR-34a. The co-treatment of melatonin and arsenic reversed the changes caused by arsenic. These findings showed that melatonin reduced the hepatic damage induced by arsenic due to its antioxidant and antiapoptotic properties as well as its regulatory effect on the miR-34a/Sirt1/autophagy pathway. © 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Biological Trace Element Research (15590720) 202(10)pp. 4547-4553
Arsenic can induce lethal hepatorenal insufficiency by inducing progressive cytotoxicity in the two main body’s hemostatic regulators, the kidney and liver. In the current study, the hepatorenal protective impact of caffeic acid was investigated in arsenic-exposed Syrian mice. Twenty-four male Syrian mice (30 ± 8 g) were provided and randomly divided into 4 groups of 6 receiving nothing, arsenic, arsenic and caffeic, and caffeic acid. The mice passed the 21-day treatment program. The mice’s blood was collected and analyzed by measuring the serum ALT/AST enzymes and creatinine/urea levels, respectively. Finally, the histopathological properties in both the kidney and liver organs of the mice were studied. Arsenic administration significantly increased aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), LDH, urea, and creatinine concentrations (p < 0.05). Simultaneous administration of caffeic acid with arsenic decreased the serum AST and creatinine (p < 0.05). Moreover, the renal glomerulus and liver regeneration in the mice receiving caffeic acid supplements exhibited the caffeic acid hepatorenal protective potential. The histopathological changes caused by arsenic in the mice’s liver and kidney tissue including degeneration, necrosis, hyperemia, and tissue hypotrophy were shifted to normal conditions following the caffeic acid administration dose, which was verified by the mice blood biochemical analysis results. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature 2023.
Veterinary Research Forum (20088140) 14(6)pp. 347-350
A 15-year-old male terrier dog with symptoms of lethargy and severe abdominal distension was referred to the polyclinic hospital of the Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran. In addition to numbness and abdominal distension, the dog also had anorexia and severe weakness and some skin masses were observed. Due to the enlarged abdomen, splenomegaly was diagnosed in ultrasonography. Fine needle aspiration was performed on the liver and skin mass and then, neoplastic lesions were reported based on cytology. On the necropsy, two masses were found on the liver and shoulder skin. These masses were well-encapsulated, soft and multi-lobulated. Samples taken from the liver and skin were prepared by Hematoxylin and Eosin staining and then, two different immunohistochemical markers were used to confirm the initial diagnosis. Histopathological examination of these two well-encapsulated, soft and multi-lobulated masses on the liver and skin showed lipid content and liposarcoma was indicated. Immunohistochemical staining using two markers, S100 and MDM2, made a definitive diagnosis and confirmed the diagnosis. © 2023 Urmia University. All rights reserved.
Journal of Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences (17359260) 33(225)pp. 45-57
Background and purpose: Acrylamide is a chemical compound that is widely used in the production of paper, paint, and other industrial products. Food and cigarette smoke are primary sources of exposure to acrylamide. Betaine is a native compound with antioxidant properties and has also been reported as a protective agent against tissue damages induced by some toxicants. This study aimed to evaluate the possible effectiveness of betaine against the damage caused by acrylamide in brain. Materials and methods: In this experimental study, 28 male rats were randomly divided into four groups. The first group was considered as the control group. Group 2 received acrylamide (50 mg/kg;ip). Group 3 received the diet containing 2% betaine in addition to acrylamide. Rats in group 4 received diet containing 2% betaine. At the end of the experimental period (the eleventh day), brain tissue was sampled for biochemical and histopathological evaluation. ANOVA and Bonferroni tests were utilized to compare the means of biochemical data, and Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests were employed to investigate histopathological data. Calculations were conducted using SPSS/PC V21. Results: In the group receiving acrylamide, significant reduction in catalase and superoxide dismutase and significant increase in proteins carbonyl groups and malondialdehyde were observed in comparison to the control group (P<0.05). Hyperemia, microgliosis, and ischemic cell changes in the brain tissue of the group receiving acrylamide increased significantly compared to the control group (P<0.05). Administration of betaine in acrylamide+betaine group caused an increasing trend of catalase and superoxide dismutase relative to group 2 in a manner that were comparable with those of the control group. Likewise, betaine administration in acrylamide+betaine group significantly (P<0.05) reduced the severity of ischemic cell changes and non-significantly reduced hyperemia and microgliosis compared to the group receiving acrylamide. Conclusion: Betaine administration could be beneficial to oxidative indices alterations and could improve tissue damage induced by acrylamide in brain of rats. © 2023, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences. All rights reserved.
Yarmohammadi, F. ,
Barangi, S. ,
Aghaee-bakhtiari, S.H. ,
Hosseinzadeh, H. ,
Moosavi, Z. ,
Reiter, R.J. ,
Hayes, A.W. ,
Mehri, S. ,
Karimi, G. BioFactors (09516433) 49(3)pp. 620-635
Chronic arsenic (As) exposure, mainly as a result of drinking contaminated water, is associated with cardiovascular diseases. Mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, and autophagy have been suggested as the molecular etiology of As cardiotoxicity. Melatonin (Mel) is a powerful antioxidant. Mel improves diabetic cardiomyopathy, cardiac remodeling, and heart failure. Following pre-treatment with Mel (10, 20, or 30 mg/kg/day i.p.), rats were orally gavaged with As (15 mg/kg/day) for 28 days. Electrocardiographic findings showed that Mel decreased the As-mediated QT interval prolongation. The effects of As on cardiac levels of glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were reversed by Mel pretreatment. Mel also modulated the Sirt1 and Nrf2 expressions promoted by As. Mel down-regulated autophagy markers such as Beclin-1 expression and the LC3-II/I ratio. Moreover, the cardiac expression of cleaved-caspase-3 and Bax/Bcl-2 ratio was decreased by Mel pretreatment. Reduced expression of miR-34a and miR-144 by As were reversed by Mel. The histopathological changes of cardiac injury associated with As exposure was moderated by Mel. Mel may improve As-induced cardiac dysfunction through anti-oxidative, anti-apoptotic, and anti-autophagic mechanisms. © 2023 International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.
Rashidlamir, A. ,
Roozbeh, B. ,
Bagheri, R. ,
Moazami, M. ,
Moosavi, Z. ,
Javadmanesh, A. ,
Baker, J.S. ,
Wong, A. Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness (18271928) 62(9)pp. 1278-1285
BACKGROUND: Abuse of growth hormone (GH) is expanding in exercising populations due to its lipolytic and anabolic actions. The purpose of this study was to examine the interactive effect of exercise training and GH administration on histopathological and functional assessment in the liver of male Wistar rats. METHODS: Forty-eight male Wistar rats were randomly divided into six groups including control + saline group (CS), GH injection group (GI), resistance training + saline group (RS), aerobic training + saline group (AS), resistance training + GH injection group (RG), aerobic training + GH injection group (AG). All groups were injected with either saline or GH 1 h before each training session. RT and AT were performed five days/week for a total of 8-weeks. At the end of the study, blood samples and liver tissue samples were taken to evaluate circulating AST, ALT, and ALP enzymes, as well as albumin protein. Histopathology of liver tissue was performed via qualitative microscopic evaluation. RESULTS: Microscopic evaluation of liver tissue did not show any histopathologic changes. All the groups administered with GH showed a significant increase in ALT, ALP, and albumin protein (P<0.05). However, AST enzyme concentrations increased significantly only in the RG group (P=0.022). In addition, neither RS nor the AS groups showed significant AST, ALT, and ALP changes, but serum albumin concentration significantly increased in the AS group (P=0.033). CONCLUSIONS: The elevation of liver enzymes showed that GH administration with or without exercise training might cause severe liver damage. © 2021 EDIZIONI MINERVA MEDICA.
Balarastaghi, S. ,
Barangi, S. ,
Hosseinzadeh, H. ,
Imenshahidi, M. ,
Moosavi, Z. ,
Razavi, B.M. ,
Karimi, G. Biomedicine and Pharmacotherapy (07533322) 151
Arsenic (As), a metalloid chemical element, is classified as heavy metal. Previous studies proposed that As induces vascular toxicity by inducing autophagy, apoptosis, and oxidative stress. It has been shown that melatonin (Mel) can decrease oxidative stress and apoptosis, and modulate autophagy in different pathological situations. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the Mel effect on As-induced vascular toxicity through apoptosis and autophagy regulation. Forty male rats were treated with As (15 mg/kg; oral gavage) and Mel (10 and 20 mg/kg, intraperitoneally; i.p.) for 28 days. The systolic blood pressure (SBP) changes, oxidative stress markers, the aorta histopathological injuries, contractile and relaxant responses, the level of apoptosis (Bnip3 and caspase-3) and autophagy (Sirt1, Beclin-1 and LC3 II/I ratio) proteins were determined in rats aorta. The As exposure significantly increased SBP and enhanced MDA level while reduced GSH content. The exposure to As caused substantial histological damage in aorta tissue and changed vasoconstriction and vasorelaxation responses to KCl, PE, and Ach in isolated rat aorta. The levels of HO-1 and Nrf-2, apoptosis markers, Sirt1, and autophagy proteins also enhanced in As group. Interestingly, Mel could reduce changes in oxidative stress, blood pressure, apoptosis, and autophagy induced by As. On the other hand, Mel led to more increased the levels of Nrf-2 and HO-1 proteins compared with the As group. In conclusion, our findings showed that Mel could have a protective effect against As-induced vascular toxicity by inhibiting apoptosis and the Sirt1/autophagy pathway. © 2022 The Authors
Dehdashti moghadam, M. ,
Baghshani, H. ,
Ghodrati azadi, H. ,
Moosavi, Z. Biological Trace Element Research (15590720) 199(10)pp. 3772-3780
Arsenic (As) is an environmental pollutant with destructive effects on different body organs, including the testis. This work was aimed to assess the ameliorative role of caffeic acid (CA) against As-provoked testicular damage in mice. Twenty-four adult male mice (31 ± 9 g) were randomly allocated to four equal groups. The first group served as control and was provided basal diet and tap water. Animals in the second group received water containing 200 ppm arsenite. The third group of mice received CA (60 mg/kg body weight; i.p.) during exposure to arsenite. Animals in the fourth group received CA. At the end of the experiment period (21 days), blood and testicular tissue sampling was done for biochemical and histopathological assessments. The results showed a significant decline of testicular ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), as well as plasma concentrations of testosterone and dihydrotestosterone in As-treated mice compared to controls (p < 0.05). A significant increase in testicular malondialdehyde was also detected in group 2 relative to controls. Moreover, As exposure resulted in some morphological and histopathological alterations of the testis, including hyperemia, reduced tubular diameter and thickness of epithelial cell layers of seminiferous tubules, and Leydig cell necrosis. Simultaneous administration of CA plus As increased GPx, FRAP, testosterone, and dihydrotestosterone amounts and attenuated MDA levels as well as histopathological alterations to the levels that were not significantly different from those of the control group. These results indicate that caffeic acid can be suggested as an alleviative natural compound against As-induced damage in mice testes. © 2021, The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC part of Springer Nature.
Roodi, P.A. ,
Moosavi, Z. ,
Goli, A.A. ,
Azizzadeh, M. ,
Hosseinzadeh, H. Iranian Journal Of Toxicology (22519459) 12(3)pp. 1-8
Background: The therapeutic potential of honey is related to antioxidant activity against reactive oxygen species because it contains compounds such as polyphenols; therefore, we evaluated the potential protective effect of honey on subacute toxicity of ACR by histopathologic study on tissue lesions in rat. Methods: In Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran, 2016, male Wistar rats were divided into 7 groups. To induce toxicity, ACR was injected (50 mg/kg for 11 d) to rats in 5 groups. In treatment groups, rats received three doses of honey 1.25, 2.5, and 5 g/kg in addition to the ACR. The two remaining groups received vitamin E (200 IU/kg) and normal saline as positive and negative control respectively. On the last day, after necropsy, tissue specimens from brain and liver were collected for histopathological studies. Results: Receiving of ACR caused tissue injuries including degeneration, necrosis, hyperemia, hemorrhage and inflammation in liver; ischemic cell change, hyperemia, hemorrhage and edema in brain tissue. Administration of honey considerably reduced tissue damages caused by ACR, particularly with dosage 5 g/kg. Conclusion: The severity of tissue lesions caused by the ACR can be reduced by honey, likely through its antioxidant activity. Increasing concentrations of honey will enhance its effectiveness. © 2021 Portfolio Management Research. All rights reserved.
Khalili, N. ,
Ahmadi, A. ,
Ghodrati azadi, H. ,
Moosavi, Z. ,
Abedsaeedi, M.S. ,
Baghshani, H. Comparative Clinical Pathology (1618565X) 30(6)pp. 905-912
Considering the role of oxidative stress as a molecular mechanism underlying the deleterious side effects of gentamicin, applying antioxidants is likely to have ameliorative effects against GNT-induced tissue damages. This work was aimed to investigate the protective effect of betaine or trimethylglycine upon gentamicin-induced toxicity in mice. Thirty male mice were randomly divided into five groups: group 1 (control; i.p. injection of isotonic saline), group 2 received gentamicin (GNT; 80 mg/kg, i.p.) for 10 days, group 3 received GNT (80 mg/kg, i.p.) for 10 days and betaine (2% in the diet) for 18 days starting 8 days before gentamicin injection, group 4 received GNT (80 mg/kg, i.p.) for 10 days and betaine (2% in the diet) during gentamicin prescription, and group 5 just received betaine (2% in the diet) for 10 days. Gentamicin administration caused a notable increase in creatinine and urea levels compared to controls (p < 0.05). Betaine administration in groups 3 and 4 decreased creatinine values relative to the second group to the amounts that had no significant difference in comparison with the control group. Additionally, a remarkable increase in renal and plasma contents of malondialdehyde (as a lipid peroxidation indicator) and renal glutathione peroxidase (which breakdown hydrogen peroxides and hydroperoxides to harmless molecules) was found upon gentamicin injection which both were attenuated in the betaine-treated groups. Also, the histopathologic studies revealed acute tubular necrosis with hyperemia and hemorrhage triggered by gentamicin. Betaine noticeably attenuated the GNT-induced histopathological lesions of the kidneys. The present study indicates that betaine can attenuate gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity, which might be related to betaine’s antioxidant potential. © 2021, The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag London Ltd., part of Springer Nature.
Talebi, A. ,
Emami, F. ,
Biranvand, R. ,
Moosavi, Z. ,
Ramtin, K. ,
Sadeghi, S. ,
Baghaei, K. ,
Lak, Z. ,
Nematbakhsh, M. International Journal Of Preventive Medicine (20088213) 12(1)
Backgrounds: Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) causes high mortality rate in clinic, and the pathogenesis of this syndrome may interact with renin angiotensin system (RAS) components. The main objective of this study was to determine the protective role of AT1R antagonist (losartan) on oleic acid (OA) induced ARDS and kidney injury. Methods: The animal model of ARDS was performed by intravenous administration of 250 μl/kg oleic acid (OA). Male and female rats were subjected to received intravenously vehicle (saline, groups 1 and 4), OA (groups 2 and 5), or losartan (10 mg/kg) plus OA (groups 3 and 6), and six hour later, the measurements were performed. Results: Co-treatment of OA and losartan increased the serum levels of blood urea nitrogen significantly (P < 0.05) and creatinine insignificantly in both gender. However, the OA induced kidney damage was decreased by losartan significantly in male (P < 0.05) and insignificantly in female rats. In addition, co-treatment of OA and losartan decreased lung water content significantly in male rats (P < 0.05). Based on tissue staining, no significant difference in lung tissue damages were observed between the groups, however some exudate were observed in lung male rats treated with OA alone which were abolished by losartan. Conclusions: Losartan may protect the kidney and lung against OA induced tissue injury in male rats. This protective action is not certain in female rats. © 2021 Wolters Kluwer Medknow Publications. All rights reserved.
Baratzadeh poustchi, F. ,
Tabatabaei yazdi, F. ,
Heidari, A. ,
Moosavi, Z. Environmental Science and Pollution Research (09441344) 27(31)pp. 39343-39353
The leather industry is one of the major producers of wastewater, releasing large amounts of various chemicals into the environment. Chromium (Cr) is the most commonly used agent in the tanning industry. Accumulation in the animal body can adversely affect the functioning of animal tissues. The current study investigated the toxic effects of Cr on lung, kidney, liver, and testicular tissues in Libyan jirds (Meriones libycus) inhabiting the area surrounding Ghazghan leather industrial town, Mashhad, Iran. Average Cr concentrations were found to be significantly higher in samples from contaminated areas than controls (p ' 0.05). The highest accumulation of Cr was found in lung tissue, while the liver tissue showed the lowest. The results also showed that sex and age had no significant effect on Cr accumulation in any tissue at either sampling area (p ' 0.05). Histological analyses showed that Cr accumulation had caused changes in tissue samples from Libyan jirds from the contaminated area. Hyperemia was observed in all tissues. In kidney tissue, necrosis and degeneration of the epithelial cells of the tubules were seen as well, and in one case, we also observed hemorrhage. In liver tissue, necrosis, degeneration, and inflammation were observed, along with one case, of fibrosis. In lung tissue, we observed emphysema, hemorrhage, and inflammation. Testicular tissue also showed a considerable lesion. Given the proximity of specimens’ habitat to an area of importance, i.e., the industrial town, and the species’ dependence on its habitat for nutrition, Libyan jirds are particularly useful for monitoring. Thus, they can be used to monitor the level of contamination in future studies. © 2020, Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.
Barangi, S. ,
Mehri, S. ,
Moosavi, Z. ,
Hayesd, A.W. ,
Reiter, R.J. ,
Cardinali, D.P. ,
Karimi, G. Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety (01476513) 196
Benzo(a)pyrene (BaP), an important environmental pollutant, is produced as the result of incomplete combustion of organic materials in many industries and food cooking process. It has been purposed that BaP induces hepatotoxicity through oxidative stress and apoptosis. Several studies have shown that melatonin can protect against chemical-induced apoptosis through autophagy pathway. In this study, we assessed the modulating effect of melatonin, a well-known antioxidant, on BaP-induced hepatotoxicity through induction of autophagy. Thirty male mice were treated daily for 28 consecutive days. BaP (75 mg/kg; oral gavage) and melatonin (10 and 20 mg/kg, i.p.) were administered to mice. The liver histopathology and the levels of apoptosis and autophagy proteins as well as the expression of miR-34a were determined. The BaP exposure induced severe liver histological injury and markedly enhanced AST, ALT and MDA level. Also, apoptosis proteins and hepatic miR-34a expression increased. However, the level of Sirt1 and autophagy markers such as LC3 II/I ratio and Beclin-1 reduced. The co-administration of melatonin reversed all changes caused by BaP. In summary, melatonin appears to be effective in BaP-induced hepatotoxicity maybe through the miR-34a/Sirt1/autophagy molecular pathway. © 2020 Elsevier Inc.
Roozbeh, B. ,
Moazami, M. ,
Rashidlamir, A. ,
Moosavi, Z. ,
Javadmanesh, A. Veterinarski Arhiv (03725480) 90(4)pp. 403-412
High levels of growth hormone accelerate mitosis rate but decrease the apoptosis process in its target organs. These events might cause the initiation of different cancer types. Thus, the main aims of this study were assessing the effects of short term growth hormone administration and resistance training on the histopathology and detection of the BRAF-V600E mutation in the thyroid tissue of male Rattus norvegicus brown rats. Thirty-two rats were randomly divided into four groups. After 8 weeks of the experiment (i.m), thyroid tissue and blood samples of saline (CS), resistance training+saline (RS), growth hormone (2 mg/kg) (GI) and resistance training+growth hormone (2 mg/kg) (RG) were taken to evaluate histopathology, the BRAF T1799A mutation of thyroid tissue, and circulating levels of IGF-1 and IGFBP-3. The protocol of training consisted of rats climbing a ladder while carrying weights (3 sets/5 reps). Microscopic evaluation of thyroid tissue did not show any histopathological changes, and there were no mutations in the studied region of the BRAF sequence. Serum IGF-1 concentration was significantly lower in the RS group than in other groups (P<0.05). However, serum IGFBP-3 concentration did not change significantly in the RS group. Moreover, serum IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 concentrations were significantly higher in the GI and RG groups than in the others (P<0.05). In conclusion, the decrement of serum IGF-1 concentration and IGF-1/IGFBP-3 ratio after resistance training might decrease the risk of cancer. Furthermore, short term growth hormone administration, with and without resistance training, might increase the risk of cancer through the high levels of serum IGF-1 concentration and IGF-1/ IGFBP-3 ratio in male rats. © 2020, University of Zagreb, Facultty of Veterinary Medicine. All rights reserved.
Shahsavari, A. ,
Tabatabaei yazdi, F. ,
Moosavi, Z. ,
Heidari, A. ,
Sardari, P. Environmental Science and Pollution Research (09441344) 26(12)pp. 12590-12604
Mining activity constitutes a potential source of heavy metal pollution in the environment. Long-term exposure to heavy metals (e.g., cadmium) has adverse health effects. Rodents frequently serve as bioindicators to monitor the levels of heavy metals in the environment. In the present study, concentrations of 10 heavy metals (Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mo, Ni, Pb, Sb, and Zn) in kidney, liver, and muscle tissue of the Persian jird (Meriones persicus) were evaluated. This is the first study to examine the histopathological changes in Persian jird tissues caused by the bioaccumulation heavy metals. The samples were taken at location that surrounded by Sangan Iron Ore Mine (SIOM) mining activities, in northeastern Iran. The results show that the highest concentrations for the metals were observed in kidney and liver, whereas lowest concentrations were found in muscle of Persian jirds. The concentration of Pb was below the limit of detection. Sex and age were two factors that could explain the different levels of heavy metal bioaccumulation, which affects the concentration of some metals. Adults had significantly higher Cu and Cd levels compared to juveniles. Males bioaccumulated more Zn in their kidneys than females, whereas females bioaccumulated more Fe in their livers. As expected, heavy metals affected various organs of the studied specimens. Hyperemia, hemorrhage, necrosis, and degenerative damage to the epithelial cells of the tubules, the presence of hyaline casts, and in one case, mononuclear leukocyte infiltration, were observed in samples of renal tissue. Hemorrhage and hepatocyte vacuolization were the most common histopathological changes found in samples of hepatic tissue. These effects and the concentrations of heavy metals in the studied specimens indicate the need for monitoring and frequent sampling to evaluate long-term persistent pollutants. © Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature 2019.
Roozbeh, B. ,
Moazami, M. ,
Rashidlamir, A. ,
Moosavi, Z. ,
Javadmanesh, A. Iranian Journal Of Veterinary Science And Technology (24236306) 11(1)pp. 13
Growth hormone has mitotic and anti-apoptotic effects which may increase proliferation and transformation of cells when it is expressed aberrantly. This study investigated the effects of resistance training and growth hormone injection on circulating IGF-1, IGFBP-3 levels and IGF-1/IGFBP-3 ratio in male Wistar rats. Thirty-two male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to a control group (C, n = 8), a resistance training group (RT, n = 8), a growth hormone injection group (GI, n = 8) and a resistance training + growth hormone injection group (RG, n = 8). The resistance training protocol comprised of climbing a ladder (5 days/week, 3 sets/5 reps) while carrying a weight suspended from the tail. The growth hormone (2 mg/kg/day, 5 days/ week) was injected before an exercise session. Serum IGF-1, IGFBP-3 levels, and IGF-1/IGFBP-3 ratio were measured after 8 weeks. One-way ANOVA analysis was used for comparison of serum IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 levels between groups. Serum IGF-1 levels and IGF-1/IGFBP-3 ratio significantly decreased, but serum IGFBP-3 levels showed no significant change in the RT group compared to the C group. Also, both serum IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 levels and IGF-1/ IGFBP-3 ratio in GI and RG groups significantly increased compared to the other groups. In conclusion, resistance training decreases serum IGF-1 levels and/or IGF-1/IGFBP-3 ratio in normal condition. On the other hand, the growth hormone injection with and without the resistance training increases serum IGF-1 levels and IGF-1/IGFBP-3 ratio which could be noted as a condition with a higher risk of neoplasm. © 2019 Ferdowsi University of Mashhad. All rights reserved.
Andrologia (03034569) 50(10)
The aim of this work was to study the alleviative role of betaine versus arsenite-provoked alterations in testis oxidative status and circulating androgenic indices. Twenty-four adult male rats (204.5 ± 21 g) were divided into four groups, equally. Control group was given basal diet and tap water. Group 2 rats received arsenite (100 mg/L) in drinking water. Rats in group 3 received betaine (2% of the diet) during arsenite exposure. Group 4 received betaine at 2% of the diet during study period (30 days). The results revealed significant decrease in testicular glutathione peroxidase, catalase and glutathione in arsenite-treated animals relative to controls. Significant increase in testicular malondialdehyde was also detected in arsenite-exposed group. Concurrent administration of betaine with arsenite significantly increased glutathione and catalase amounts in comparison with arsenite group. Arsenite exposure resulted in a significant decrease in plasma testosterone and dihydrotestosterone levels over control rats, whereas supplementation of betaine augmented the hormones concentrations to the levels that had no significant difference in comparison with controls. Concentration of all measured oxidative status and hormonal variables in the betaine plus arsenite and betaine groups was not significantly different relative to controls. Taken together, betaine may be proposed as an alleviative agent against arsenite-induced male reprotoxicity. © 2018 Blackwell Verlag GmbH
Karbasi s., ,
Zaeemi m., ,
Mohri m., ,
Rashidlamir, A. ,
Moosavi, Z. Andrologia (03034569) 50(3)
This study was performed to determine the effects of 8 weeks testosterone enanthate (TE) injection and resistance training (RT) on cardiac muscle in male Wistar rats. A total of 28 male adult Wistar rats were randomly divided into 4 groups; control + placebo, RT + placebo, TE and TE + RT. Testosterone enanthate (20 mg/kg BW, IM) and placebo (olive oil; 0.2 ml, IM) were injected twice a week for 2 months. The RT consisted of climbing (5 reps/3 sets) a ladder carrying a load suspended from the tail. The serum activities of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and creatine kinase MB (CK-MB) and serum level of creatinine, urea and cardiac troponin I (CTnI) were evaluated. After sacrifice, samples from myocardial muscle were collected for histopathology evaluation. The serum concentration of CTnI and CK-MB activity significantly increased in group RT compared with control (p <.05). In group RT + TE, all biomarkers of muscle damage (CTnI, CK-MB, AST, LDH) were significantly more than those in control (p <.05). Also, mild myocardial hypertrophy was observed in RT and RT + TE groups. The higher level of all heart damage biomarkers in the RT + TE group rather than control may indicate the synergistic effects of medication and exercise. © 2017 Blackwell Verlag GmbH
Karbasi s., ,
Zaeemi m., ,
Mohri m., ,
Rashidlamir, A. ,
Moosavi, Z. Science and Sports (17784131) 32(3)
Background Anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) are the most common doping agents in the sports and AAS abusers may show different renal side effects. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of 8 weeks testosterone enanthate (TE) injection and resistance training (RT) on kidney in male Wistar rats. Materials and methods Twenty-eight male adult Wistar rats were randomly divided into 4 groups; C: control, RT: resistance training, TE: testosterone enanthate, TE + RT. Resistance training protocol consisted of climbing (5 reps/3 sets) a ladder for 8 weeks. TE and placebo (20 mg/kg BW, IM) were injected twice a week. At the end, rats were euthanized and serum biochemical analysis and pathological examinations of kidney tissue were conducted. Results serum creatinine concentration in RT group was significantly (P < 0.05) higher than that in TE and TE + RT groups and mild hyperemia and congestion were observed in all treatment groups. Conclusion Although, we showed that 8 weeks consumption of TE (20 mg/kg) accompanied with RT does not negatively affect renal function, but further studies are necessary to obtain more detailed information. © 2017 Elsevier Masson SAS
Vahedi, G. ,
Khosravi, A.R. ,
Shokri, H. ,
Moosavi, Z. ,
Delirezh, N. ,
Sharifzadeh, A. ,
Barin, A. ,
Shahrokh, S. ,
Balal, A. Journal Of Herbmed Pharmacology (23455004) 5(2)pp. 78-84
Introduction: Candida glabrata is a yeast fungus regularly isolated from patients with impaired immunity who receive a routine antifungal therapy. Drug-resistant strains of C. glabrata have been emerged in recent years. The aim of this study was to examine the therapeutic efficacy Origanum vulgare essential oil (OVEO) against drug-resistant strains of C. glabrata and its cytotoxic effect on macrophages. Methods: Specimens were collected from mucosal surfaces of the oral cavity of medically approved oropharyngeal candidiasis (OPC) in HIV-positive patients and volunteered healthy individuals using sterile swabs or mouthwashes. In vitro antifungal susceptibility testing was done using microdilution and disc diffusion methods. Chemical composition of OVEO was determined using gas chromatography mass spectrometry. The cytotoxic effect of essential oil on macrophages was examined using tetrazolium dye (MTT). Results: Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) range of OVEO in healthy individuals and OPC patients was 150-200 and 150-250 μg/mL, respectively. OVEO efficiently inhibited growth of resistant isolates. In isolates obtained from HIV patients, both MIC50 and MIC90 of OVEO were 200 μg/mL while in healthy individuals were 150 and 200 μg/mL, respectively. Moreover, OVEO induced significant reduction in proliferation of murine RAW264.7 and peritoneal macrophages in concentrations higher than 100 and 300 μg/mL, respectively. Main constituents of OVEO were thymol (27.3%), γ-terpinene (20.7%) and carvacrol (16.1%). Conclusion: OVEO could be used as a fungicidal agent against fungal infections caused by azole-resistant C. glabrata. A combination therapy along with standard antifungals is suggested to avoid its cytotoxic effects.
Iranian Journal Of Parasitology (17357020) 9(3)pp. 441-444
Arteritis due to Strongylus vulgaris is a well-known cause of colic in horses and donkeys. The current report describes a fatal incidence of arterial obstruction in cranial mesenteric artery caused by S. vulgaris infection in an adult donkey in which anthelmintic treatment was not regularly administered. Necropsy findings of the abdominal cavity revealed a complete cranial mesenteric arterial obstruction due to larvae of S. vulgaris, causing severe colic. To the authors' knowledge, a complete cranial mesenteric arterial obstruction due to verminous arteritis has rarely been described in horses and donkeys. Based on recent reports of fatal arterial obstruction due to S. vulgaris infection in donkeys, it may be evident to consider acute colic caused by this pathogenic parasite a re-emerging disease in donkeys and horses. © 2014 Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS). All rights reserved.
Nikaein, D. ,
Khosravi, A.R. ,
Moosavi, Z. ,
Shokri, H. ,
Erfanmanesh, A. ,
Ghorbani-choboghlo, H. ,
Bagheri, H. Journal of Apicultural Research (00218839) 53(1)pp. 84-90
Invasive aspergillosis has become an increasing problem in immunocompromised patients in recent years. Due to increased antimicrobial resistance, natural agents with medicinal and immunomodulatory effects have gained more attention. Honey is a natural substance with documented antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and wound healing effects. In this study the effects of three Iranian honeys on some aspects of innate immunity and survival rate during invasive aspergillosis were investigated. For this purpose, mice were divided into 10 groups (honey alone, honey and infection, negative and positive controls) each containing 10 individuals. Mice were treated with honey (1.5g/kg BW/orally) for 10 days. At day 6, Aspergillus fumigatus conidia (5 × 105/ml) were injected intravenously to the infected groups. Mice were euthanized at day 11, and spleen and peritoneal cell culture was performed. Pro-inflammatory cytokine production using ELISA and killing assay was also performed. For survival rate, 10 mice from each infected group were considered and monitored for 30 days. The results showed that honey treatment could significantly increase IL6 and IL1ß production in infected mice as well as improve macrophage killing (p < 0.05). Also mice treated with honey had a greater survival time than the infected group. Our results suggest that honey could boost the immune system and increase survival time in invasive aspergillosis. © IBRA 2014.
Khosravi, A.R. ,
Shokri, H. ,
Sharifrohani, M. ,
Mousavi, H.E. ,
Moosavi, Z. Foodborne Pathogens and Disease (15567125) 9(7)pp. 674-679
The purpose of the present study was to evaluate and assess the capability of Zataria multiflora, Geranium herbarium, and Eucalyptus camaldolensis essential oils in treating Saprolegnia parasitica-infected rainbow (Oncorhynchus mykiss) trout eggs. A total of 150 infected eggs were collected and plated on glucose-pepton agar at 24°C for 2 weeks. The antifungal assay of essential oils against S. parasitica was determined by a macrodilution broth technique. The eggs were treated with essential oils at concentrations of 1, 5, 10, 25, 50, and 100 ppm daily with three repetitions until the eyed eggs stage. Of 150 eggs examined, S. parasitica (54.3%), Saprolegnia spp. (45%), and Fusarium solani (0.7%) were isolated. The minimum inhibitory concentrations of Z. multiflora, E. camaldolensis, and G. herbarium essential oils against S. parasitica were 0.9, 2.3, and 4.8 ppm, respectively. Zataria multiflora and E. camaldolensis at concentrations of 25, 50, and 100 ppm, and G. herbarium at concentration of 100 ppm had significant differences in comparison with negative control (p<0.05). The results revealed that malachite green, followed by Z. multiflora, E. camaldolensis, and G. herbarium treated eggs had remained the most number of final eyed eggs after treatment. The highest final larvae rates belonged to malachite green, E. camaldolensis, Z. multiflora, and G. herbarium, respectively. The most hatching rates were recorded with malachite green (22%), and then Z. multiflora (11%), E. camaldolensis (7%), G. herbarium (3%), and negative control (1%). Zataria multiflora and E. camaldolensis were more effective than G. herbarium for the treatment of S. parasitica-infected rainbow trout eggs in aquaculture environment. © Copyright 2012, Mary Ann Liebert, Inc.
Khosravi, A.R. ,
Mahdavi omran s., ,
Shokri, H. ,
Lotfi a., ,
Moosavi, Z. Journal of Medical Mycology (11565233) 22(2)pp. 167-172
Objective: To evaluate the relationship between elastase activity of different . Aspergillus fumigatus (. A. fumigatus) isolates and their pathogenicity in mice. Material and methods: The animals were intravenously (IV) infected with 1×106 conidia/mouse. The elastase activity in mice sera and survival time were determined. All animals were sacrified at the end of the fourth week, and autopsies were performed for histopathological examination. The tissue sections were stained with Periodic Acid Schiff (PAS) and Verhoeff's techniques. Results: The highest elastase activity was associated with the sera of infected mice with elastase-producing . A. fumigatus AIR78 as standard strain (0.18. ±. 0.02. mm), followed by infected animals with elastase-producing isolates (0.16. ±. 0.02. mm) and control mice (0.14. ±. 0.02. mm). The elastase activity index (EAI) was determined in value of 0.92. ±. 0.27. The survival times in mice infected with elastase-producing isolate and in control group were 21.6 and 30 days, respectively. Histopathological studies showed that the heart and kidneys were more infected by . Aspergillus hyphae than other tissues. Conclusion: It was concluded that there is a significant relationship between elastase activity and survival time in mice with aspergillosis. © 2012 Elsevier Masson SAS.
Moosavi, Z. ,
Khosravi, A.R. ,
Sasani, F. ,
Gharagozloo, M.J. ,
Shokri, H. ,
Tootian, Z. Comparative Clinical Pathology (1618565X) 19(6)pp. 607-610
Alternaria alternata is well-known as a source of allergenic components in the cell wall and cytoplasm of conidia and hyphae that cause respiratory allergic disorders. The purpose of this study was to evaluate tissue reaction and Th2 cytokines in mice exposed to A. alternata. A. alternata was cultured, and fungal extract was prepared by freeze-defreeze and sonication methods. BALB/c mice in one group were sensitized by two intraperitoneal injections of A. alternata extract and then intra-nasally challenged with spores suspended in sterile normal saline solution, and in another group, mice only received spores intra-nasally. Blood sampling and necropsy were performed at 1 and 72 h after spore inhalation. Histopathology demonstrated an inflammatory response with cells including lymphocytes, macrophages, neutrophils and eosinophils present and mucus hypersecretion in the lungs and airway epithelial cell hyperplasia and necrosis observed in sensitized and non-sensitized mice. Sera were analyzed by ELISA to determine serum levels of Interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-13 in immediate response and late-phase reaction, respectively. Increasing Th2 cytokine (IL-4 and IL-13) levels in the sera was also observed in the sensitized and challenged mice. The results showed that exposure to extract and then spores of A. alternata induced rapid and highly elevated production of IL-4 and IL-3. These cytokines were associated with respiratory histopathological changes. © 2009 Springer-Verlag London Limited.
