Effect of tinuvin 770 [a light stabilizer] on ventricular cardiomyocytes of albino rats and possible protective role of lycopene. toxicological and histological study

Tinuvin 770 is a substance used as an ultraviolet light and radiation stabilizer employed universally in the manufacture of plastic materials. It has recently been suggested to possibly cause cardiovascular manifestations. Lycopene is a potent antioxidant carotenoid without provitamin A activity. It is present in many fruits and vegetables; however, tomatoes and processed tomato products constitute its major sources. Lycopene has recently gained great attention for its protective effect against several pathological disorders, particularly coronary heart diseases [CHDs]. This work aimed at evaluating the potential toxic effects of tinuvin 770 on rat myocardium, as well as the possible cardioprotective role of pre-and concomitant lycopene administration, both histologically and biochemically. 50 adult male rats were divided among 5 equal groups. Group I served as a control group. Group II received lycopene orally [4.6 mg/ kg b.w/ day] for 9 weeks. Group III received tinuvin 770 [lmg/ kg b.w] intraperitoneally 3 times a week for 5 weeks. Group IV received lycopene simultaneously with tinuvin for 5 weeks. Group V received lycopene 4 weeks prior to and concurrent with tinuvin 770 for another 5 weeks. The last urine samples and myocardial specimens were collected at the end of the experiment for estimation of norepinephrine levels and histological examination of the ventricular cardiomyocytes respectively. Tinuvin 770 evoked marked increase in norepinephrine urine levels and evident myocardial lesions in group III rats included waviness, myocytolysis and focal hypereosinophilia of the muscle fibers. Ultrastructurally, evident alterations of the myofibrils, mitochondria, sarcoplasmic reticulum and intercalated discs were revealed. On simultaneous lycopene and tinuvin administration [group IV], mild amelioration of the myocardial lesions was depicted, whereas prior treatment with lycopene [group V] resulted in considerable myocardial protection. Tinuvin 770 might be considered as a cardiotoxic agent, and lycopene is especially beneficial in ameliorating its effects

Evaluation of head injured patients: comparison of clinical, CT scanning and neurobiochemical markers as predictors of outcome

To investigate the predictive value of the initial serum level of NSE and S-100B compared with the GCS score and cranial CT scan in the prediction of outcome in cases of head injury. Thirty patients with different grades of traumatic head injury were enrolled in this study after taking an informed consent. Data obtained on admission included age, sex and GCS. In addition, cranial CT was done and serum samples were taken from each patient for determination of NSE and S-100B levels. GOS was obtained at the time of patients' discharge. The mean age of head injured patients was 26.70 +/- 10.96 years. Males constituted 66.7% of the cases. It was found that initial GCS score was significantly correlated with GOS with a sensitivity of 85.71%, a specificity of 95.65% and overall accuracy of 93.33%. A significant correlation was also found between CT findings and GOS and the predictive value of CT findings was found to be of 100% sensitivity, specificity and overall accuracy. Post-traumatic serum concentrations of S-100B and NSE were found to be significantly higher in patients with poor outcome compared to those with good outcome, and a significant negative correlation was found between these levels and the GOS. The overall accuracy for the S-100B and NSE were 90.0% and 96.67%, respectively. Clinical interpretation of outcome in traumatic head injury is not a reliable method. CT scanning and neurobiochemical markers, especially NSE, are better predictors

Histological study on the toxic effect of 2-bromopropane on the seminiferous tubules of adult male albino rats

2-Bromopropane [2-BP] is a haloalkane used in industry as an alternative to ozone layer depleting solvents. It has recently been suspected to be a causative agent for some reproductive dysfunctions in both male and female workers exposed to it in electronic factories. The study was carried out to evaluate the possible toxic effects of 2-BP administration on the seminiferous tubules [S. Ts] of rat testis, and its potential reversibility after 2-BP withdrawal. The study was conducted on 30 adult male albino rats weighing from 100-150g each. They were categorized into 3 equal groups. Group I: served as a control group. Group II: rats received daily subcutaneous injection of 2-BP [400 mg/kg b.w.] for 28 days. Group III: rats received 2-BP in the same dose and for the same duration as group II followed by a further 28-day recovery period. At the end of experiment, blood samples were collected to detect testosterone levels, and the rat testes were weighed and examined for the daily sperm production. Specimens were taken from the testes of all animals and subjected to both light and electron microscopic examinations. 2-BP administration [in group II] significantly decreased absolute testicular weight and daily sperm production as well as serum testosterone levels. Histologically, atrophy of the S.Ts accompanied by interstitial oedema was evident. Moderate to severe degenerative changes involving all types of spermatogenic cells, including spermatogonia, were also demonstrated. Furthermore, Leydig cells depicted ultrastructural evidence of decreased activity. After a 4-week recovery period [group III], mild increase in serum testosterone levels as well as other laboratory parameters were noticed. However, they were still much less as compared to the control. Histologically, only limited amelioration of the testicular lesions in the germinal epithelium as well as Leydig cells was revealed. Such persistent lesions were attributed to the damaging effect of 2-BP on testicular stem cells; spermatogonia. The study demonstrates vulnerability of the testicular tissue to 2-BP intoxication. Therefore, careful consumption of 2-BP containing solvents and pharmaceuticals is necessary