Fructo-oligosaccharide effects on serum cholesterol levels. An overview

PURPOSE: To address the effects of fructooligosaccharides (FOS) intake on serum cholesterol levels. METHODS: We performed a search for scientific articles in MEDLINE database from 1987 to 2014, using the following English keywords: fructooligosaccharides; fructooligosaccharides and cholesterol. A total of 493 articles were found. After careful selection and exclusion of duplicate articles 34 references were selected. Revised texts were divided into two topics: "FOS Metabolism" and "FOS effects on plasma cholesterol." RESULTS: The use of a FOS diet prevented some lipid disorders and lowered fatty acid synthase activity in the liver in insulin-resistant rats. There was also reduction in weight and total cholesterol in beagle dogs on a calorie-restricted diet enriched with short-chain FOS. Another study found that 2g FOS daily consumption increased significantly serum HDL cholesterol levels but did not ensure a significant reduction in levels of total cholesterol and triglycerides.. Patients with mild hypercholesterolemia receiving short-chain FOS 10.6g daily presented no statistically significant reduction in serum cholesterol levels. However, when FOS was offered to patients that changed their lifestyle, the reduction of LDL cholesterol and steatosis was higher. CONCLUSIONS: Fructooligosaccharides intake may have a beneficial effect on lipid metabolism and regulation of serum cholesterol levels in individuals that change their lifestyle. FOS supplementation use in diets may therefore be a strategy for lowering cholesterol. .

Preconditioning with L-alanyl-glutamine upon cerebral edema and hypocampus red neurons counting in rats subjected to brain ischemia /reperfusion injury

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effects of the dipeptide L-alanyl-glutamine (L-Ala-Gln) as a preconditioning agent to potentially promote reduction in the intensity of lesion or induction of resilience in rats subjected to global cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. METHODS: Thirty-six male Wistar rats weighing 280-300g were randomly assigned to six groups (n=6). Groups Sham 1h and 24h were treated with saline and spared of further interventions. The remaining groups were submitted to clamping of the common carotid arteries for 30 minutes (ischemia) and treated with saline (SS) or L-Ala-Gln. Brain reperfusion was allowed for 1or 24 h. L-Ala-Gln was administered intravenously (0.75g/kg) 30 minutes before sham procedure or induction of global brain I/R injury. Brain edema and red neuron counting were determined. Results were expressed as Mean±SD for normal results and Median±Percentile for non parametric data. Significance was established at p<0.05. RESULTS: Global I/R injury promoted an increase in brain edema at 24 h after reperfusion, whereas preconditioning with L-Ala-Gln induced no change in edema. On the other hand, L-Ala-Gln preconditioning decreased significantly red neurons counting both at 1h and 24h post reperfusion (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: There was a significant preconditioning effect with L-Ala-Gln decreasing cell death (red neurons counting) at early (1h) and late reperfusion (24h) in the cerebral tissue. .

Preconditioning with mono and polyunsaturated fatty acids and low-intensity electrical stimulation. Effects on skin repair in rats

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effects of preconditioning with oils mixes containing ω3/ω6/ω9 associated with micro-currents on skin repair in rats. METHODS: One-hundred and eight Wistar rats randomized into G-1, G-2 and G-3 groups were treated with saline (0.9%), mix 1 (corn+soybean oils) and mix 2 (olive+canola+flaxseed oils), respectively, in a single dose (0.01ml/g) by gavage. Next, each group was subdivided into sham and stimulated subgroups. Pulsed-wave microcurrents (0.5 µA, 0.5 Hz) were applied to stimulated subgroups for 20 min. One hour later anesthetized rats were subjected to surgery. A dorsal incision (6 cm long) was carried out and closed with interrupted nylon sutures. Samples (1cm2 ) were harvested from the mid-portion of the incision on the 7, 14, 21 post-operative (P.O.) days. Variables were analyzed using Mann-Whitney/Dunn tests Significance level was set to 5 % (p<0.05). RESULTS: Micro-currents promoted increase of exudate and reduction of epithelialization on day 7 in G1 rats. Mixes 1/2 reduced vascularization on 7/14th days P.O. Both 1/2 mixes reduced fibrosis on day 14. Preconditioning with mix 1 led to increased expression of NF-kB on the 7th day. CONCLUSION: Preconditioning with microcurrents has pro-inflammatory effects while oil mixes 1 and 2 decrease fibrosis and vascularization in the proliferative phase of cicatrization.

Preconditioning with mono and polyunsaturated fatty acids and low-intensity electrical stimulation. Effects on skin repair in rats

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effects of preconditioning with oils mixes containing ω3/ω6/ω9 associated with micro-currents on skin repair in rats. METHODS: One-hundred and eight Wistar rats randomized into G-1, G-2 and G-3 groups were treated with saline (0.9%), mix 1 (corn+soybean oils) and mix 2 (olive+canola+flaxseed oils), respectively, in a single dose (0.01ml/g) by gavage. Next, each group was subdivided into sham and stimulated subgroups. Pulsed-wave microcurrents (0.5 µA, 0.5 Hz) were applied to stimulated subgroups for 20 min. One hour later anesthetized rats were subjected to surgery. A dorsal incision (6 cm long) was carried out and closed with interrupted nylon sutures. Samples (1cm2) were harvested from the mid-portion of the incision on the 7, 14, 21 post-operative (P.O.) days. Variables were analyzed using Mann-Whitney/Dunn tests Significance level was set to 5 % (p<0.05). RESULTS: Micro-currents promoted increase of exudate and reduction of epithelialization on day 7 in G1 rats. Mixes 1/2 reduced vascularization on 7/14th days P.O. Both 1/2 mixes reduced fibrosis on day 14. Preconditioning with mix 1 led to increased expression of NF-kB on the 7th day. CONCLUSION: Preconditioning with microcurrents has pro-inflammatory effects while oil mixes 1 and 2 decrease fibrosis and vascularization in the proliferative phase of cicatrization. .

Development of a subcutaneous endometriosis rat model

PURPOSE: To present a rat model of subcutaneous endometriosis for the study of pathophysiology and the effects of drugs. METHODS: Fifty three-month-old female Wistar rats (Rattus norvergicus) were distributed into one control group and four treatment groups: estradiol (2.5; 5; 10mg/kg sc), medroxyprogesterone acetate (0.5; 2; 5mg/kg sc), triptorelin pamoate (0.18; 0.56mg/kg sc) and acetylsalicylic acid (3mg/kg per os). The animals were autoimplanted subcutaneously with 4x4-mm uterine fragments to induce endometriosis. The endometriomas were measured on days 1, 7, 14 and 21. The relative dry and wet weights of the endometrioma were used to evaluate response to the drug. Endometrial -like tissue was confirmed by histology. The greatest weight gain was observed on day 14 (relative wet weight: 29.1 ± 6.7mg%, relative dry weight: 5.3 ± 0.9mg %). Treatments were administered between day 5 and day 14. RESULTS: The relative wet weight of the hemiuterus in the 10mg/kg estradiol group differed significantly from control and the other two estradiol groups (p=0.0001). In the medroxyprogesterone acetate group the weight decreased significantly but this decrease was not dose-dependent. Weight reduction was also significant in the triptorelin pamoate and the acetylsalicylic acid groups. CONCLUSION: The model of subcutaneous endometriosis is reproducible, low-cost and easy to perform, and suitable for the study of pathophysiology and the effects of drugs. .

Effect of propranolol on capsular reaction around silicone implants in guinea pigs

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of propranolol on capsular architecture around silicone implants by measuring the inflammation, capsular thickness, and collagen fiber density, using a guinea pig experimental model. METHODS: Thirty six adult male guinea pigs randomly divided into two groups (n=18) were used. Each one received a silicone implant with textured-surface. The capsular tissue around implants from untreated or treated animals with the beta-adrenoceptor antagonist propranolol (10 mg/kg, dissolved in daily water) were analyzed for inflammation by histological scoring, capsular thickness by computerized histometry, and collagen fibers type I and Type III density by picrosirius polarization at different time points (7, 14 or 21 days after silicone implantation). RESULTS: Propranolol treatment reduced inflammation and impaired capsular thickness and delayed collagen maturation around the textured implant. CONCLUSION: Propranolol reduces the risk of developing capsular contracture around silicone implants with textured surface. .

Electroacupuncture ameliorates experimental colitis induced by TNBS through activation of interleukin-10 and inhibition of iNOS in mice

PURPOSE:To study the anti-inflammatory actions of electroacupuncture (EAc) on an experimental colitis model in mice.METHODS:Thirty-eight male Swiss mice, divided in five groups, were subjected to induction of colitis by TNBS in 50% ethanol. Saline (SAL) and ethanol (ETNL) groups served as controls. TNBS+EAc and TNBS+ dexamethasone subgroups were treated with EAc 100Hz and dexamethasone (DEXA) 1 mg/Kg/day, respectively. After three days, a colon segment was obtained for quantification of myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, immunohistochemistry for iNOS, malondialdehyde (MDA) and cytokines (IL-1β and IL-10).RESULTS:Neutrophilic activity, assayed as MPO activity, was significantly higher in the TNBS colitis group than that in the saline control group. TNBS+EAc group showed suppression of IL-10 in the colon. EAc treatment significantly reduced the concentration of MDA and the expression of iNOS, as compared to the other groups. CONCLUSION: Electroacupuncture 100Hz applied to acupoint ST-36 promotes an anti-inflammatory action on the TNBS-induced colitis, mediated by increase of IL-10 and decrease of iNOS expression.

Electroacupuncture ameliorates experimental colitis induced by TNBS through activation of interleukin-10 and inhibition of iNOS in mice

PURPOSE: To study the anti-inflammatory actions of electroacupuncture (EAc) on an experimental colitis model in mice. METHODS: Thirty-eight male Swiss mice, divided in five groups, were subjected to induction of colitis by TNBS in 50% ethanol. Saline (SAL) and ethanol (ETNL) groups served as controls. TNBS+EAc and TNBS+ dexamethasone subgroups were treated with EAc 100Hz and dexamethasone (DEXA) 1 mg/Kg/day, respectively. After three days, a colon segment was obtained for quantification of myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, immunohistochemistry for iNOS, malondialdehyde (MDA) and cytokines (IL-1β and IL-10). RESULTS: Neutrophilic activity, assayed as MPO activity, was significantly higher in the TNBS colitis group than that in the saline control group. TNBS+EAc group showed suppression of IL-10 in the colon. EAc treatment significantly reduced the concentration of MDA and the expression of iNOS, as compared to the other groups. CONCLUSION: Electroacupuncture 100Hz applied to acupoint ST-36 promotes an anti-inflammatory action on the TNBS-induced colitis, mediated by increase of IL-10 and decrease of iNOS expression. .

Nutraceutical preconditioning with arginine and oil mixes. Effects on inflammatory mediators, oxidative stress and lipid profile in patients undergoing radical prostatectomy

PURPOSE: To investigate whether there is any effect resulting from preconditioning with nutraceutical supplementation containing arginine and oil mixes with high ω9:ω6 ratio and low ω6:ω3 ratio containing EPA and DHA, ALA fatty acids on inflammatory mediators, antioxidant and lipid profile modulation in surgical trauma. METHODS: Twenty-six men scheduled for radical prostatectomy were randomized into three groups and treated as follows: Group 1 (skim milk, 0% fat), Group 2 (supplement with ω6:ω3 ratio of 8:1 and arginine) and Group 3 (supplement with high ω9:ω6 ratio of 3.2:1 and low ω6:ω3 ratio of 1.4:1 and arginine). Patients received skin milk or supplements twice a day (200 ml) during five days prior to surgery. Peripheral venous blood samples were collected at three different timepoints: five days before surgery (PRE), before anesthesia induction (IND) and on the 2nd postoperative day (POS). Parameters analyzed included inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-α), antioxidants (catalase), lipid profile and heat shock protein (HSP-27). RESULTS: There were no significant differences between groups on inflammatory mediators and antioxidant parameters. However, lipid profile values (Cholesterol, LDL, Triglycerides, VLDL), were significantly different. CONCLUSION: Preconditioning with arginine and oil mixes containing high ω9:ω6 ratio and low ω6:ω3 ratio, has no effects on inflammatory mediators and oxidative stress in patients undergoing radical prostatectomy. Reduction of cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL and VLDL profiles may be related to the trauma effect. .

Protective effects of abdominal electroacupuncture on oxidative stress and inflammation due to testis torsion/detorsion in rats

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effects of acupuncture (Ac) and electroacupuncture (EAc) on oxidative stress and inflammation in testis torsion/detorsion (T/D) model in rats. METHODS: Thirty male Wistar rats were randomized into five groups. G1 Group (Sham) served as control. The remaining groups were submitted to spermatic cord torsion (720°) for 3 hours, followed by detorsion and reperfusion for 4 hours. Before detorsion G3, G4 and G5 rats were treated with Ac, EAc 2Hz and EAc 10 Hz, respectively, applied to acupoint Gulai (S-29) bilaterally under anesthesia for 5 minutes. Next, the testes were detorsioned and reperfused for 4 hours. Afterwards, blood samples and the right testis were collected for biochemical assays: reduced Glutathione (GSH), Malonaldehyde (MDA), Myeloperoxidase (MPO). RESULTS: EAc stimulation (2 and 10 Hz) promoted significant increase in concentrations of GSH in plasma and testis of G4-G5 rats, compared with G1. There was significant increase of tissue MDA in groups G4-G5 and plasma MDA in all groups, compared with G1. There was a significant reduction in MPO activity in groups G4-G5 compared with G1. CONCLUSION: Electroacupuncture stimulation (2 and 10 Hz) attenuates oxidative stress and inflammatory response in rats subjected to testicular torsion/detorsion. .

Antiperoxidative properties of oil mixes of high ratio Omega-9:Omega-6 and low ratio Omega-6:Omega-3 after molar extraction in rats

PURPOSE: To evaluate the antioxidant and antiperoxidative effects of oil mixes of high ratio Omega-9:Omega-6 and low ratio Omega-6:Omega-3 in the third day after tooth extraction in rats. METHODS: Thirty-two male Wistar rats (270-310g) were randomly distributed in two groups: Control (n=24) and Test (n=8). Control group was divided into three subgroups (n=8): G1: Sham-Saline; G2: Saline; G3: Isolipid. G1 and G2 animals received NaCl 0.9% while G3 rats were treated with an isolipid mixture (alpha-linolenic acid - ALA) containing -6/-3 oils (8:1 ratio) and-9/-6 (0.4:1 ratio). Test group animals (G4) received oily mixtures (alpha-linolenic acid - ALA, docosahexaenoic acid - DHA, eicosapentaenoic acid - EPA) of -6/-3 (1.4:1 ratio) and -9/-6 (3.4:1 ratio). Saline and oils were administered by gavage during four days before and three days after first mandibular molar extraction. Following, samples (arterial blood and alveolar mucosa) were collected for glutathione (GSH) and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) assays. RESULTS: Oil mixes induced a significant decrease in GSH and TBARS tissue and plasma concentrations in the third day post-surgery. CONCLUSION: Gavage administration of oil mixes of high ratio Omega-9:Omega-6 and low ratio Omega-6:Omega-3 after molar extraction in rats induces a significant decrease in lipid peroxidation. .

Glutamine and ornithine alpha-ketoglutarate supplementation on malate dehydrogenases expression in hepatectomized rats

PURPOSE: To evaluate the relative gene expression (RGE) of cytosolic (MDH1) and mitochondrial (MDH2) malate dehydrogenases enzymes in partially hepatectomized rats after glutamine (GLN) or ornithine alpha-ketoglutarate (OKG) suplementation. METHODS: One-hundred and eight male Wistar rats were randomly distributed into six groups (n=18): CCaL, GLNL and OKGL and fed calcium caseinate (CCa), GLN and OKG, 0.5g/Kg by gavage, 30 minutes before laparotomy. CCaH, GLNH and OKGH groups were likewise fed 30 minutes before 70% partial hepatectomy. Blood and liver samples were collected three, seven and 14 days after laparotomy/hepatectomy for quantification of MDH1/MDH2 enzymes using the real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) methodology. Relative enzymes expression was calculated by the 2-ΔΔC T method using the threshold cycle (CT) value for normalization. RESULTS: MDH1/MDH2 RGE was not different in hepatectomized rats treated with OKG compared to rats treated with CCa. However, MDH1/MDH2 RGE was greater on days 3 (321:1/26.48:1) and 7 (2.12:1/2.48:1) while MDH2 RGE was greater on day 14 (7.79:1) in hepatectomized rats treated with GLN compared to control animals. CONCLUSION: Glutamine has beneficial effects in liver regeneration in rats by promoting an up-regulation of the MDH1 and MDH2 relative gene expression. .

Effects of acupuncture and electroacupuncture on estradiol-induced inflammation and oxidative stress in health rodents

PURPOSE:To investigate the effects of classical acupuncture (Ac) and electroacupuncture (EAc) on estradiol-induced inflammation and oxidative stress in health rodents. METHODS: Twenty-four eight-week old female rats were treated with estradiol valerate (EV) 4.0 mg i.m. single dose and randomly assigned to four groups (n=6): G1(control), G2 (Ac), G3 (EAc 2 Hz) and G4 (EAc 100 Hz). After 60 days all rats were anesthetized with chloral hydrate 10% (0.1 ml/30 g weight of the animal) and submitted to Ac/EAc for twenty minutes. The procedures were repeated on days three, five, seven and nine of the study. The equivalent of the human right ST-36 (Zusanli) and SP-6 (Sanyinjiao) acupoints were chosen for needling and electrical stimulation. On the 10th day of the experiment, all rats were anesthetized for collection of blood and tissues (ovaries) samples for biochemical analysis and histological examination. RESULTS:Glutathione (GSH) and malonaldehyde (MDA) concentrations increased significantly in all groups (plasma and ovary) while myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity decreased significantly in all groups compared with control group (G1). CONCLUSIONS:Both classical acupuncture and electroacupuncture decrease systemic and local oxidative stress and ovary inflammation in healthy rats exposed to estrogenic stimulation. EAc enhances lipid peroxidation at systemic and local levels in female rats exposed to estrogenic stimulation.

Effects of bioflavonoid ternatin on liver regeneration and oxidative stress in rats

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of bioflavonoid ternatin (TRT) on rat liver regeneration and oxidative stress after 70% partial hepatectomy (PH). METHODS: Thirty six young male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to two groups of 18 animals each - control (G1) and experimental (G2) - and were submitted to PH under inhalatory diethylether anesthesia. G1 rats received daily intraperitoneal (ip) injections of saline (NaCl 0.9% solution) 0.1 mL/kg for 14 days; G2 animals received daily ip injections of TRT 0.1% 1.0mg/kg for 14 days. At 36h (T1), 168h (T2) and 336h (T3) post-PH timepoints, a subgroup of six rats in each group was chosen in a randomized way to complementary hepatectomy (CH) and blood samples haversting. Collected material was saved for laboratory analysis (total bilirubin (TB), D-Glucose, glutathione (GSH) and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and assessment of liver regeneration. RESULTS: TRT induced a significant decrease in liver and plasma GSH concentrations; liver regeneration process was not affected. TRT promoted a significant decrease in blood glucose levels 168h after partial hepatectomy compared with controls. TB levels remained unchanged. CONCLUSION: Intraperitoneal bioflavonoid ternatin injection in partially hepatectomized rats induces a decrease in oxidative stress and a significant hypoglycemic state, but does not promote any change in the evolution of liver regeneration.

Qualidade de vida de pacientes com queimaduras internados em um hospital de referência no nordeste brasileiro / Quality of life of burned patients in a referral hospital in northeastern Brazil

Objetivo: Apesar dos progressos científicos, as queimaduras continuam sendo um problema médico, psicológico, econômico e social que envolve não somente o médico e o paciente como também toda sociedade. Indivíduos que sofreram queimaduras extensas apresentam alterações físicas e psicológicas; o impacto na sua qualidade de vida (QV) constitui um grande desafio aos profissionais responsáveis pelo seu tratamento. Objetiva-se neste trabalho identificar qual a QV de queimados hospitalizados em uma instituição de referência. Métodos: Vinte queimados foram avaliados pela aplicação do questionário “The Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short- Form Health Survey (SF-36)”, adaptado e validado para a língua portuguesa. Resultados: Observou-se um baixo nível de escolaridade e prevalência de pacientes do sexo masculino. O agente causal mais frequente foi o álcool. Na avaliação da QV, os melhores resultados foram encontrados nos domínios “Vitalidade” (77) e “Saúde mental” (57,6), enquanto que os piores resultados foram identificados nos domínios “Aspectos físicos” (0) e “Aspectos emocionais” (0). Conclusões: De acordo com as respostas apresentadas, o significado positivo de qualidade de vida relaciona-se, prioritariamente, aos domínios “Vitalidade” e ao “Estado mental”. Os domínios com maior comprometimento são “Aspectos físicos” e “Aspectos emocionais”, refletindo a percepção de sua autoimagem diante das queimaduras sofridas.

Objective: Despite scientific advances, the burns are still a medical, psychological, social and economic problem that involves not only the doctor and the patient as well as the whole society. Individuals who have suffered extensive burns have physical and psychological changes; the impact on their quality of life (QOL) constitutes a major challenge to professionals responsible for their treatment. This study aims to evaluate the QOL of burned patients while hospitalized in an institution of reference. Methods: Twenty burned patients were evaluated by the application of the questionnaire “The Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36)”, adapted and validated for the Portuguese language. Results: Low educational level and the prevalence of male patients were identified. The most frequent causal agent was alcohol. SF-36 best results were found in the areas vitality (77) and mental health (57.6) while the worst results were identified in the fields “physical aspects” (0) and emotional aspects (0). Conclusions: According to the answers received, the positive meaning of quality of life relates primarily to the areas “Vitality” and “Mental State”. The areas with greater commitment are “Physical and Emotional aspects”, reflecting the perception of their self-image taking into account the burns they suffered.

Fructo-oligosaccharide effects on blood glucose: an overview / Efeitos dos fruto-oligossacarídeos no controle glicêmico: revisão

PURPOSE: To identify the current status of scientific knowledge in fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS), non-conventional sugars that play an important role in glycemia control. METHODS: We performed a search for scientific articles in MEDLINE and LILACS databases, from January 1962 to December 2011, using English/Portuguese key words: "blood glucose/glicemia", "prebiotics/prebióticos" and "dietary fiber/fibras na dieta". From an initial number of 434 references, some repeated, 43 references published from 1962 to 2011 were included in this study. The selected texts were distributed in three topics: (1) metabolism of FOS, (2) FOS and experimental studies involving glucose and (3) human studies involving glucose and FOS. RESULTS: Five studies have shown that the use of FOS reduces the fecal content and increases intestinal transit time. Experimental studies have shown that dietary supplementation with high doses (60 g/Kg) of propionate, a short-chain fatty acid decreased glycemia. The use of lower doses (3 g/kg) did not produce the same results. Study in subjects with diabetes type II showed that the addition of 8 grams of FOS in the diet for 14 days, caused a reduction in serum glucose. In another study with healthy subjects, there were no changes in glycemic control. CONCLUSIONS: This review demonstrates that consumption of FOS has a beneficial influence on glucose metabolism. The controversies appear to be due to inadequate methodological designs and/or the small number of individuals included in some studies.

OBJETIVO: Conhecer o estado atual do conhecimento científico em fructooligossacarídeos (FOS), açúcares não-convencionais que desempenham um papel importante no controle da glicemia. MÉTODOS: Realizamos uma busca de artigos científicos nas bases de dados MEDLINE e Literatura Latino-Americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde (LILACS), a partir de janeiro 1962 a dezembro de 2011, usando como descritores termos Português/Inglês: "glicemia/blood glucose, "prebióticos/prebiotics" e "fibras na dieta/dietary fiber. A partir de um número inicial de 434 referências, algumas repetidas, 43 referências foram consideradas adequadas para a finalidade deste estudo e foram, portanto, selecionadas para análise. Os textos selecionados foram distribuídos em três tópicos: (1) metabolismo de FOS (2), FOS e estudos experimentais envolvendo glicose e (3) estudos em humanos envolvendo glicose e FOS. RESULTADOS: Cinco trabalhos mostraram que o uso de FOS diminui o conteúdo fecal e aumenta o tempo do transito intestinal. Estudos experimentais demonstraram que a suplementação dietética com altas doses (60 g/Kg) de propionato, um ácido graxo de cadeia curta, diminuiu a glicemia. A utilização de doses menores (3 g/Kg) não produziu os mesmos resultados. Em indivíduos diabéticos tipo II a adição de 8 g de FOS na dieta, durante 14 dias, induziu uma redução da glicemia. Em indivíduos sadios, não ocorreram alterações da glicemia. CONCLUSÕES: Essa revisão mostra que o consumo de FOS exerce influência benéfica no metabolismo glicêmico. As controvérsias evidenciadas parecem estar mais ligadas a desenhos metodológicos inadequados e/ou ao número reduzido de indivíduos incluídos em alguns estudos.

Ternatin pretreatment attenuates testicular injury induced by torsion/detorsion in Wistar rats / Pré-tratamento com ternatina atenua a lesão testicular induzida por torção/destorção em ratos Wistar

PURPOSE: To investigate the possible protective role of the bioflavonoid ternatin (TTN) when administered before induction of ischemia/reperfusion injury in rat testis. METHODS: Thirty-six Wistar rats were randomly assigned to 3 groups (n=12), divided in 2 subgroups (n=6). Saline 2.0ml (G-1), dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) 3 percent solution (G-2) or TTN 12 mg/kg/dose (G-3) was administered ip. to all rats, respectively, 21, 12 and 1 hour before torsion. Anesthetized rats were subjected to ischemia (3 hours) induced by 720º torsion of the spermatic cord. Right testis and arterial blood samples were collected at the end of ischemia (T-0), and 3 hours later (T-3) for assessment of testis malonaldehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), and plasma total antioxidant power (TAP). RESULTS: MDA decreased significantly (p<0,001) in G-2 and G-3 in T-0 and T-3 timepoints. Additional decrease in MDA was seen in G-3 after 3 hours of reperfusion (T-3). GSH increased significantly in G-2 (p<0.001) and G-3 (p<0.05) at the end the ischemia (T-0). A significant increase in GSH was seen 3 hours after testis detorsion (T-3) in G-2 rats. TAP values remained unchanged. CONCLUSION: The data provides in vivo evidence of the antiperoxidative and antioxidative properties of TTN in torted rat testis.

OBJETIVO: Investigar o possível efeito protetor do bioflavonóide ternatina (TTN) quando administrado antes da indução da lesão de isquemia/reperfusão testicular em ratos. MÉTODOS: Trinta e seis ratos Wistar, aleatoriamente distribuídos em três grupos (n=12) divididos em dois subgrupos (n=6) cada foram tratados com solução salina (G-1), dimetilsulfóxido (DMSO) 3 por cento (G-2) ou TTN 12 mg/kg/dose (G-3), administrados i.p. 21, 12 e 1 hora antes da torção. Ratos anestesiados foram submetidos à isquemia (3 horas) induzida por torção (720º) do cordão espermático direito. Amostras (testículo ipsilateral e 3,0 ml de sangue arterial) foram coletadas ao final da isquemia (T-0), e 3 horas depois (T-3) para a avaliação das concentrações de malonaldeído (MDA), glutationa reduzida (GSH) no testículo e capacidade antioxidante total (TAP) no plasma. RESULTADOS: MDA diminuiu significativamente nos grupos G-2 e G-3 nos tempos T-0 e T-3. Houve diminuição adicional no G-3 após 3 horas. GSH aumentou significativamente nos grupos G-2 (p<0,001) e G-3 (p<0,05) no T-0 e T-3 no G-2. TAP permaneceu inalterada. CONCLUSÃO: Os achados fornecem evidências in vivo das propriedades antioxidantes e antiperoxidativas da TTN na T/D do testículo do rato.

Effect of short-term ornithine alpha-ketoglutarate pretreatment on intestinal ischemia-reperfusion in rats / Efeitos do pré-tratamento em curto prazo com ornitina alfa-cetoglutarato na isquemia-reperfusão intestinal em ratos

PURPOSE: To investigate the effects of preventive enteral administration of ornithine alpha-ketoglutarate (OKG) in an ischemia-reperfusion rat model. METHODS: Sixty rats were randomized into five groups (G1-G5, n = 12). Each group was divided into two subgroups (n = 6) and treated with calcium carbonate (CaCa) or OKG by gavage. Thirty minutes later, the animals were anesthetized with xylazine 15mg + ketamine 1mg ip and subjected to laparotomy. G1-G3 rats served as controls. Rats in groups G4 and G5 were subjected to ischemia for 30 minutes. Ischemia was achieved by clamping the small intestine and its mesentery, delimiting a segment of bowel 5 cm long and 5 cm apart from the ileocecal valve. In addition, G5 rats underwent reperfusion for 30 minutes. Blood samples were collected at the end of the laparotomy (G1), after 30 minutes (G2, G4) and 60 minutes (G3, G5) to determine concentrations of metabolites (pyruvate, lactate), creatine phosphokinase (CPK), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and glutathione (GSH). RESULTS: There was a significant decrease in tissue pyruvate and lactate and plasma CPK levels in OKG-treated rats at the end of reperfusion period. GSH levels did not change significantly in ischemia and reperfusion groups. However, TBARS levels increased significantly (p<0.05) in tissue samples in OKG-treated rats subjected to ischemia for 30 minutes. CONCLUSION: Short-term pretreatment with OKG before induction of I/R decreases tissue damage, increases pyruvate utilization for energy production in the Krebs cycle and does not attenuate the oxidative stress in this animal model.

OBJETIVO: Investigar os efeitos da administração enteral preventiva de ornitina alfa-cetoglutarato (OKG) em modelo de isquemia-reperfusão no rato. MÉTODOS: Sessenta ratos foram randomizados em cinco grupos (G1-G5, n=12). Cada grupo foi redistribuído em dois subgrupos (n=6) e tratado com carbonato de cálcio (CaCa) ou OKG por gavagem. Trinta minutos mais tarde, os animais foram anestesiados com xilazina 1mg+cetamina 15mg i.p. e submetidos à laparotomia. Os ratos dos grupos G4-G5 foram submetidos à isquemia por 30 minutos. A isquemia foi obtida por pinçamento do intestino delgado, delimitando um segmento com 5 cm de comprimento e distando 5 cm da válvula ileocecal. O grupo G5 foi submetido à reperfusão por 30 minutos. Amostras de sangue foram coletadas no final da laparotomia (G1), após 30 minutos (G2, G4) e 60 minutos (G3, G5) para determinação das concentrações de metabolitos (piruvato, lactato), creatinofosfoquinase (CPK), substâncias reativas ao ácido tiobarbitúrico (TBARS) e glutationa (GSH). RESULTADOS: Observou-se redução significante (p<0,05) das concentrações de piruvato e lactato, teciduais e CPK plasmático em ratos tratados com OKG, no final do período de reperfusão. Não houve alteração significante nos níveis plasmáticos e teciduais de GSH. Entretanto os níveis de TBARS aumentaram significativamente (p<0,05) em amostras de tecido de ratos tratados com OKG submetido à isquemia por 30 minutos. CONCLUSÃO: o pré-tratamento em curto prazo com OKG antes da indução da I/R diminui a lesão tecidual, aumenta a utilização de piruvato para produção de energia no ciclo de Krebs, mas não atenua o estresse oxidativo neste modelo animal.

Preconditioning with L-alanyl-glutamine reduces hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats / Pré-condicionamento com L-alanil-glutamina reduz a lesão de isquemia-reperfusão no fígado de ratos

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effects of pre-conditioning with L-alanyl- glutamine (L-Ala-Gln) in rats subjected to total hepatic ischemia. METHODS: Thirty Wistar rats, average weight 300g, were randomly assigned to 3 groups (n=10): G-1 - Saline, G-2- L-Ala-Gln, G-3-control (Sham). G-1 and G-3 groups were treated with saline 2.0 ml or L-Ala-Gln (0.75mg/Kg) intraperitoneally (ip) respectively, 2 hours before laparotomy. Anesthetized rats were subjected to laparotomy and total hepatic ischemia (30 minutes) induced by by clamping of portal triad. Control group underwent peritoneal puncture, two hours before the sham operation (laparotomy only). At the end of ischemia (G1 and G2), the liver was reperfused for 60 minutes. Following reperfusion blood samples were collected for evaluation of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels. Liver (medium lobe) was removed for immunohistochemistry study with antibody for Caspase-3. RESULTS: It was found a significant decrease (p<0.05) of ALT levels (270.6 +40.8 vs 83.3 +5.5 - p <0.05), LDH (2079.0 +262.4 vs. 206.6 +16.2 - p <0.05) and Caspase-3 expression (6.72 +1.35 vs. 2.19 +1.14, p <0.05) in rats subjected to I / R, comparing the group treated with L-Ala -Gln with G-2. Also, the ALT level was significantly lower (P<0.05) in G-1 and G-2 groups than in G-3 (control group). CONCLUSION: L-Ala-Gln preconditioning in rats submitted to hepatic I/R significantly reduces ALT, LDH and Caspase-3 expression, suggesting hepatic protection.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar os efeitos do pré-condicionamento com L-alanil-glutamina (L-Ala-Gln) em ratos submetidos à isquemia hepática total. MÉTODOS: Trinta ratos Wistar, peso médio 300g foram divididos aleatoriamente em três grupos (n = 10): G-1 - Saline, G-2: L-Ala-Gln, G-3: controle. G-1 e G-3 grupos foram tratados com 2,0 ml de solução salina ou L-Ala-Gln (0,75 mg / kg) intraperitoneal (ip), respectivamente, duas horas antes da laparotomia. Ratos anestesiados foram submetidos à laparotomia e isquemia hepática total (30 minutos) induzida por pinçamento da tríade portal. O grupo controle foi submetido à punção peritoneal, duas horas antes da operação simulada (apenas laparotomia). No final da isquemia, o fígado foi reperfundido por 60 minutos. As amostras de sangue foram colhidas ao término da reperfusão para determinação das concentrações alanina aminotransferase (ALT) e desidrogenase láctica (LDH). O lobo médio do fígado foi removido para estudo imuno-histoquímico com anticorpo para caspase-3. RESULTADOS: Houve diminuição significante (p<0.05) dos valores de ALT (270,6+40,8 vs 83,3+5,5 - p<0,05), LDH (2079,0+262,4 vs 206,6+16,2 - p<0,05) e expressão da Caspase-3 (6,72+1,35 vs 2,19+1,14 -p<0,05) nos ratos submetidos à I/R, comparando o grupo tratado com L-Ala-Gln, ao grupo salina. Além disso, o nível de ALT foi significativamente menor (P <0,05) no G-1 e G-2 do que no grupo G-3 (grupo controle). CONCLUSÃO: O pré-condicionamento com L-Ala-Gln em ratos submetidos a I/R hepática reduz significativamente as concentrações de ALT e LDH e a expressão da caspase-3, sugerindo proteção hepática.

Preconditioning with L-alanyl-L-glutamine in a Mongolian Gerbil model of acute cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury / Pré-condicionamento com L-alanil-L-glutamina em modelo de isquemia/reperfusão cerebral aguda em Gerbils da Mongólia

PURPOSE: To investigate the effect of L-alanyl-L-glutamine (L-Ala-Gln) preconditioning in an acute cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) model in gerbils. METHODS: Thirty-six Mongolian gerbils (Meriones unguiculatus), (60-100g), were randomized in 2 groups (n=18) and preconditioned with saline 2.0 ml (Group-S) or 0.75g/Kg of L-Ala-Gln, (Group-G) administered into the femoral vein 30 minutes prior to I/R. Each group was divided into three subgroups (n=6). Anesthetized animals (urethane, 1.5g/Kg, i.p.) were submitted to bilateral occlusion of common carotid arteries during 15 minutes. Samples (brain tissue and arterial blood) were collected at the end of ischemia (T0) and after 30 (T30) and 60 minutes (T60) for glucose, lactate, myeloperoxidase (MPO), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), glutathione (GSH) assays and histopathological evaluation. RESULTS: Glucose and lactate levels were not different in studied groups. However glycemia increased significantly in saline groups at the end of the reperfusion period. TBARS levels were significantly different, comparing treated (Group-G) and control group after 30 minutes of reperfusion (p<0.05) in cerebral tissue. Pretreatment with L-Ala-Gln promoted a significant increase in cerebral GSH contents in Group-G at T30 (p<0.001) time-point compared with Group-S. At T30 and T60, increased levels of GSH occurred in both time-points. There were no group differences regarding MPO levels. Pyknosis, presence of red neurons and intracellular edema were significantly smaller in Group-G. CONCLUSION: Preconditioning with L-Ala-Gln in gerbils submitted to cerebral ischemia/reperfusion reduces oxidative stress and degeneration of the nucleus (pyknosis) and cell death (red neurons) in the cerebral tissue.

OBJETIVO: Investigar o efeito do pré-condicionamento com L-alanil-L-glutamina (L-Ala-Gln) em gerbils submetidos à isquemia/reperfusão (I/R) cerebral aguda. MÉTODOS: Trinta e seis gerbils (Meriones unguiculatus) (60-100g) foram divididos em dois grupos (n=18) e pré-condicionados com 2,0 ml de soro fisiológico (Grupo-S) ou 0.75g/kg de L-Ala-Gln, (Grupo-G), administrados na veia femoral 30 minutos antes da I / R. Cada grupo foi dividido em três subgrupos (n=6).Animais anestesiados com uretano, 1.5g/kg, ip, foram submetidos à oclusão bilateral das artérias carótidas comuns, durante 15 minutos. Amostras (tecido cerebral e sangue arterial) foram coletadas no final da isquemia (T0) e após 30 (T30) e 60 minutos (T60) para a aferição das concentrações de glicose, lactato, mieloperoxidase (MPO), substâncias reagentes ao ácido tiobarbitúrico (TBARS), glutationa (GSH) e avaliação histopatológica. RESULTADOS: As concentrações de glicose e lactato não foram diferentes nos grupos estudados; a glicemia aumentou significativamente no Grupo-S ao final da reperfusão. Concentrações de TBARS no tecido cerebral foram significativamente diferentes, comparando os Grupos G e S, no T30 (p <0,05). O pré-tratamento com L-Ala-Gln promoveu um aumento significativo de GSH cerebral no Grupo-G comparado ao Grupo-S no T30 (p <0,001). Houve aumento das concentrações de GSH no T30 e T60 no Grupo-G. Não houve diferenças quanto as concentrações de MPO. Picnose, presença de neurônios vermelhos e edema intracelular foram significativamente menores no Grupo-G. CONCLUSÃO: O pré-condicionamento com L-Ala-Gln em gerbils submetidos à isquemia/reperfusão cerebral reduz o estresse oxidativo, a degeneração nuclear (picnose) e morte celular (neurônios vermelhos) no tecido cerebral.