Pfeifferinella SP. [pfeifferinellidae, apicomplexan] infecting the fresh water snail pirenella conica light and electron microscope studies

Coccidian oocysts were proved to be found in 70 of 100 collected Pirenella conica snails, with a natural infection of 70%. It was observed that, Pfeifferinella sp. was transferred between hepatopancreas and small intestine of snail. The prepatent period of Pfeifferinella sp. infecting P. conica snails ranged from 14-18 days and the patent period was reached 50 days [P.L]- Mer-ogony stages were the early stages observed in this study. These stages were observed in the hepatopancreas and in a large clear parasiteophorous vacuole [PV]. In snails killed 4 days P.I. immature meronts were measured 12x10 microm containing 8 nuclei. Meanwhile, mature meronts with about 6 differentiated merozoites were detected as early as 6 days P.I., and measured 3.1xl.4jim. The earliest gametogonic stages were seen in the intestine of Pirenella conica snails killed 12 days P.L Microgamonts contained about 4 nuclei and measured 79x6.7microm. The mac-rogamonts measured 7.3x5.6|

histological and immunohistochemical study of the effects of leptin on the pars distalis of the pituitary gland in female albino rats

Leptin is an adipocyte-derived hormone. The plasma level of leptin is elevated in obesity and decreased in emaciation. It is involved in the neuroendocrine regulation of pituitary gland function. The present work was carried out to study the histological changes in the pars distalis of the pituitary gland after an injection of leptin in female albino rats. Thirty just-weaned immature female albino rats [22 days] were divided into two groups: group I included 10 animals and served as a control group and group II included 20 animals that received a daily subcutaneous injection of 5 micro g leptin up to the end of the experiment. The females were subjected daily to vaginal smear. After the maturation was established, rats from each group were again subdivided into groups a and b, which were sacrificed 4 and 20 days after puberty, respectively. The pituitary glands were dissected and specimens were prepared for electron microscopic and immunohistochemical assessment. Leptin injection induced various changes in the pars distalis of the pituitary gland. Some cells had deeply stained nuclei and vacuolated cytoplasm. There was a statistically significant increase in the number of positive p53 antibody immunostained cells in the leptin-treated group, especially after 4 days of leptin injection. The most affected cells were somatotrophs, thyrotrophs, and gonadotrophs. They showed features of hyperactivity, with the appearance of some apoptotic cells. Later, necrotic changes such as pyknotic nuclei, ballooned mitochondria with destroyed cristae, and dilated rough endoplasmic reticulum were observed. Prepubertal increase in leptin led to histological changes in some cells of the pars distalis. It is recommended to avoid increase in body weight, especially at a young age

Oviductal isthmus light microscopic changes induced by clomiphene citrate in albino rats

Clomiphene citrate [CC] therapy for cases of infertility has been linked to increased incidence of tubal ectopic pregnancy. This study aimed to investigate the histological changes produced by CC in the isthmus portion of albino rat oviducts. Twenty adult female albino rats were divided into three groups. The first was the control group. The second group received 1 mg/kg/day CC for 4 days, whereas the third group was allowed a recovery period after receiving CC. The oviductal isthmus sections were stained by H and E, periodic acid-Schiff [PAS], and caspase for light microscopic examinations. An image analyzer was used and the measured data were recorded and statistically analyzed. The CC intake led to increased thickness of the oviductal isthmus lining epithelium, as well as to hyperplasia, bridging, and reduction of the lumen diameter. Furthermore, many degenerative and apoptotic changes as well as significant increase in the PAS optical density and caspase reaction area percentage of the lining epithelium were detected. Also, the isthmic sections of the recovery group revealed increased wall thickness, epithelial degenerative changes, and hyperplasia, in addition to significant reduction in the lumen diameter leading to tubal obstruction. Significant increase in the PAS optical density of the lining epithelium was detected, but its caspase reaction area percentage showed insignificant change compared with the control group sections. This study suggests that CC administration for 4 days at a dose of 1 mg/kg/day induces damage to the albino rat oviductal isthmus that could predispose to occurrence of ectopic pregnancy and that progressively developed despite stoppage of the drug

Light and electron microscopic study on the effect of diazepam on the cardiac muscle of adult albino rat and the possible role of garlic

Diazepam is a drug that belongs to a group of pharmacological agents called benzodiazepines. Several studies have indicated that diazepam exerts a myocardial depressant effect. Garlic preparations have been used widely for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular conditions. This work aimed to study the effect of diazepam on the cardiac muscle of adult albino rat and the possible role of garlic as a protective agent. Forty adult male albino rats were divided into four equal groups: control group, garlic-treated group [250mg/kg body weight], diazepam-treated group [1mg/kg body weight], and both garlic and diazepam-treated group. The animals were treated orally daily for 4 weeks. Specimens from the cardiac muscle were processed for light and electron microscopy. Immunohistochemical study was carried out using an antibody against vimentin. Specimens from diazepam-treated animals showed focal disruption of cardiac myocytes, peripheral deeply stained nuclei, and vacuolated sarcoplasm. Focal aggregation of mononuclear cells and dilated congested blood vessels were also observed in between the myocytes. Ultrastructurally, irregular indented nuclei, focal lysis of the myofibrils, loss of normal cross striations, swelling of mitochondria, and distortion of intercalated disks were also observed. Immunohistochemical study showed a highly significant increase in vimentin immunoreaction in the endomysial and perimysial sheaths, in the walls of blood vessels, and in some interstitial cells. In contrast, minimal changes were observed in rats treated concomitantly with both garlic and diazepam, with a non significant increase in the immunoreaction. Diazepam induced structural changes in rat cardiac muscle that could be ameliorated by concomitant treatment with garlic

Possible protective effect of Moringa oleifera leaf extract on dexamethasone induced histological changes in adlt rat testes

Dexamethasone [Dex] is a widely used therapeutic agent for its immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory action. It has adverse effects on many body organs and systems. Moringa oleifera is an antioxidant-rich natural plant. It contains vitamins C and A, and various phenolic compounds. The present study was designed to evaluate the ability of M. oleifera leaf extract to protect rat testis against Dex-induced spermatogenic defects. Thirty adult male rats were divided equally into three groups [10 animals each]: the control group [group I] and two experimental groups [groups II and III]. Rats of group II were subjected to intraperitoneal injection of 7mg/kg/day of Dex for 10 days. In group III the rats were treated with M. oleifera leaf extract at 400mg/kg/day, and then after 2h they were administered an intraperitoneal injection of Dex with the same dose as for group II for 10 days. The testes were dissected out and processed for light and electron microscope examination. Microscopic examination revealed that most of the seminiferous tubules of group II were lined with germ cells with dark pyknotic nuclei and vacuolated cytoplasm. The lumen of some tubules was obliterated with exfoliated and sometimes multinucleated giant cells. There was statistically highly significant increase in the percentage of sperm abnormality. Degenerated interstitial Leydig cells were also observed. However, in the moringa-treated group, the histological changes were reduced and the percentage of sperm abnormality was more or less similar to that of the control group. These results demonstrated that M. oleifera leaf extract has a potent protective effect against the testicular toxicity induced by Dex and hence might be clinically useful

possible ameliorating effect of Nigella sativa oil on tramadol induced apoptosis in the motor area of rat cerebral cortex: a histological and immunohistochemical study

Tramadol is a centrally active analgesic commonly prescribed for moderate to severe pain. Thymoquinone, the major active component of the Nigella sativa oil, is characterized by its antioxidant properties. This study aimed to demonstrate the histological and p53-immunohistochemical changes induced by tramadol in the rat cerebral cortex and evaluate the potential role of N. sativa oil in the attenuation of these changes. Twenty-four male albino rats divided into three groups were used in this study. Group I was the control group. Group II was given repeated intraperitoneal injections of increasing doses of tramadol of 20, 40, and 80 mg/kg/day on the first, second, and third ten days of the study, respectively. Group III was given oral N. sativa oil 4 ml/kg/day, 30 min before each tramadol injection for 30 days. Paraffin sections of the frontal cortex motor area were prepared and stained with H and E and with an immunohistochemical stain using anti-p53 antibody. In group II rats, numerous shrunken pyramidal cells with acidophilic cytoplasm and deeply stained pyknotic nuclei were seen. Some of the granular cells appeared as ghosts with margination of chromatin. Homogeneous acidophilic masses containing fragmented deeply stained nuclei and surrounded by clear halos were also observed. The number of p53-positive cells was significantly higher compared with both group I and group III. In contrast, in group III, multiple pyramidal and granular cells appeared normal and the number of p53-positive cells was significantly less compared with group II. N. sativa oil and derived thymoquinone ameliorate tramadol-induced apoptosis in the motor area of the rat cerebral cortex

Can gold nanoparticles affect the histological structure of the pulmonary alveoli in adult albino rats?

Gold nanoparticles [GNPs] are currently used in several consumer products as well as in laboratory-based research either as a diagnostic imaging agent or as a therapeutic agent in gene delivery and photothermal cancer therapy. They are synthesized by chemical methods in which toxic reducing agents are involved. There is a growing need to develop environmentally benign NP synthesis processes that are free from toxic chemicals. The study aimed to ascertain the possible histological alterations that might occur in the pulmonary alveoli of adult albino rats after intraperitoneal administration of 10 nm GNPs prepared by two different methods [chemically prepared and green synthesized]. Fifty adult male albino rats [140-160 g] were assigned to three groups. Group I was the control group. The rats in this group were further divided into three equal subgroups Ia, Ib, and Ic that received daily intraperitoneal injection of PBS, trisodium citrate, and cumin-gum Arabic solutions, respectively. Rats in group II received a daily intraperitoneal injection of 100 micro l of chemically prepared GNPs using trisodium citrate. Rats in group III received a daily intraperitoneal injection of 100 micro l of green-synthesized GNPs using cumin and gum Arabic. After 7 days, the animals were euthanized and specimens from the lungs were taken and processed for histological and immunohistochemical studies. H and E-stained sections of group II rats depicted multifocal thickening of the interalveolar septa and collapsed alveoli. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed high vimentin expression. Ultrastructurally, type II pneumocytes showed degenerative changes. Relatively thick interalveolar septa with many active interstitial cells were also seen. GNPs were detected in pneumocytes and alveolar macrophages. In contrast, the lung sections of group III rats showed considerable preservation of normal alveolar architecture with nearly normal vimentin immunoreactivity. GNPs were detected in the pneumocytes and interalveolar septa as well. Green-synthesized GNPs using cumin-gum Arabic are safer for the pulmonary alveoli compared with chemically prepared GNPs using trisodium citrate. Long-term studies are required to verify the toxicity of GNPs on various cell types

possible protective effect of exercise on liver damage following hind-limb ischemia reperfusion injury in the adult male albino rat: light and electron microscopic study

Hind-limb ischemia-reperfusion [I/R] injury is not limited to the lower extremities; it also causes damage to remote organs. This study was undertaken to investigate the role of exercise in attenuating remote hepatic damage following hind-limb I/R injury. Forty-five adult male rats were divided into three groups: the control group, the I/R group, and the exercise+I/R group. The rats were left to swim for 1 h, five times a week, for 4 weeks before I/R. Bilateral hind-limb ischemia was induced by application of rubber bands above the greater trochanter for 3 h. Blood samples were taken after 3 h of reperfusion for determination of malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and interleukin-6. Liver specimens were processed for light and electron microscopic study. In the I/R group, the superoxide dismutase level decreased and plasma levels of malondialdehyde, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and interleukin-6 significantly increased when compared with the control group. Light microscopic examination showed hepatocytes with vacuolated cytoplasm, dilated blood sinusoids, and portal vessels. An extensive amount of collagen fibers around portal tracts and intense immune reaction for caspase-3 were observed. The ultrastructure showed hepatocytes with swollen mitochondria and disrupted cristae and others with an electron-dense matrix. Kupffer cells showed apoptotic bodies. Ito cells appeared surrounded by wide areas of collagen fibers. The exercise+I/R group showed significant attenuation of the biochemical and histological alterations of I/R-induced liver injury. Exercise could attenuate remote liver damage following hind-limb I/R injury

Ginkgo modulates noise induced hippocampal damage in male albino rats: a light and electron microscopic study

Noise has been a major problem to mankind and induces many auditory and extra-auditory hazards. This study was carried out to determine the injurious effects of noise on the hippocampus and to show whether Ginkgo biloba has any modulatory effect on hippocampal injury. Twenty-five adult male albino rats were divided into five groups: a control group; a noise group exposed to 100 dB of sound pressure level white noise 4h/day for 4 weeks; a protected group exposed to the same noise level with the administration of a G. biloba extract [50mg/kg daily] for 4 weeks; a recovery group, which was allowed to recover for 4 weeks after noise cessation; and a treated group, administered the same dose of G. biloba for 4 weeks after noise cessation. In the noise-exposed group, the pyramidal cell layer of CA1 and CA3 and the granular cell layer of the dentate gyrus [DG] showed a decrease in thickness compared with the control group, which showed loss and degeneration of many cells, and evidence of increased apoptosis. The protected and treated groups showed improvement in many parameters compared with the recovery group, that is, an increase in the thickness of CA1, CA3, and DG; increase in the surface area of cells; increased vascularity; and a statistically significant decrease in apoptosis compared with the recovery group. Noise exerted detrimental effects on cells of CA1, CA3, and DG of the hippocampus. Although partial spontaneous recovery may occur after cessation of noise exposure, the administration of G. biloba led to a marked decrease in the injurious effect of noise on the hippocampus. This might suggest the probable usefulness of G. biloba in reducing the central hazardous effects in individuals exposed to noise

histological and immunohistochemical study on the possible protective effect of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids on isoprenaline induced myocardial fibrosis in rats

Preclinical and clinical studies have demonstrated that omega-3-polyunsaturated fatty acids [omega-3-PUFAs] play a significant role in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. This study aimed to investigate the possible protective effect of omega-3-PUFAs on isoprenaline [ISP]-induced myocardial fibrosis. Thirty-two adult male albino rats were divided into five groups. Group I represented the control group [eight rats]. In group II, six rats were given omega-3-PUFAs [40 mg/kg/day] orally for 8 weeks. In group III, six rats were injected subcutaneously with ISP [5 mg/kg/day] for 4 consecutive days and sacrificed 2 days later. In group IV, six rats were injected with ISP [5 mg/kg/day] for 4 consecutive days and sacrificed after 2 weeks. In group V, six rats were given omega-3-PUFAs [40 mg/kg/day] for 8 weeks, following which they were injected with ISP [5 mg/kg/day] for 4 consecutive days, and sacrificed 2 days later. Serum creatine phosphokinase-MB [CPK-MB] was measured. Myocardial sections were subjected to H and E, Masson's trichrome stain, and alpha-smooth muscle actin [alpha-SMA] immunohistochemical stain. Group II showed nonsignificant difference in the mean CPK-MB level compared with the control. Myocardial sections revealed a histological architecture similar to that of the control. The mean area% of collagen and alpha-SMA immunoreactivity was nonsignificant when compared with the control. Group III showed significant increase in mean CPK-MB compared with the control. Myocardial sections showed disorganization, inflammation, exudation, and fibrosis with significant increase in the mean area% of collagen and alpha-SMA immunoreactivity compared with the control. Group IV showed significant increase in mean CPK-MB, area% of collagen, and alpha-SMA immunoreactivity compared with the control, with progression in the myocardial histological alterations. Group V showed significant decrease in the mean CPK-MB with decrease in histological changes, and there was significant decrease in the mean area% of collagen and alpha-SMA immunoreactivity compared with the ISP groups. omega-3-PUFAs exert cardioprotective effects against ISP-induced myocardial fibrosis

Histological study of the effect of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells on healing of skin defect in adult male albino rats

Despite advances in wound care, skin loss results in significant morbidity and mortality. There is increasing evidence that bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells [BM-MSCs] are useful for tissue regeneration because of their multipotency and easy isolation and culture. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of local administration of in-vitro-expanded BM-MSCs in the healing of experimentally induced full-thickness excisional wounds in adult male albino rats. Thirty-five adult male albino rats were used. They were divided into three groups. In group I rats, BM was isolated and cultured and skin specimens were obtained as a control. In group II rats, a full-thickness circular skin wound of 5mm in diameter was inflicted on the mid back of each rat and was examined on days 3, 7, and 14. In group III rats, the wound was inflicted as in group II, which was then treated with BM-MSCs and examined as in group II. The wound areas were excised and used for histological and immunohistochemical studies for CD105. Morphometric analysis was performed for assessment of epidermal thickness, area percentage of collagen and elastic fibers, and number of CD105-positive cells. Wounds treated with BM-MSCs [group III] showed evidence of re-epithelialization, increased epidermal thickness, hair follicle formation, collagen, and elastic fibers compared with wounds in group II. Similarly, the number of CD105-positive cells was prominently increased in the skin of the same group. Local administration of in-vitro-expanded BM-MSCs accelerates and promotes healing in full-thickness excisional wounds

possible protective role of selenium supplementation on the structure of trhe heart in an experimental model of chronic renal failure: a light and electron microscopic study

Chronic kidney disease [CKD] is a worldwide health hazard with significant morbidity and mortality especially due to cardiovascular complications. This study was conducted to investigate the histological effects of CKD on the structure of the heart and to show the possible protective role of selenium [Se] supplements. Twenty adult male Wistar albino rats were used in this study. They were divided into three groups: group I [the control group] was divided into two subgroups: IA [sham operated], which was subjected to sham operation, and IB [the negative control group], which was left untreated; group II [the nephrectomy group] was subjected to a five-sixth nephrectomy operation to induce renal failure; group III [the Se-treated group] was subjected to a five/sixth nephrectomy operation following which the rats were supplemented with sodium selenite at a dose of 0.04 mg/kg for 10 weeks. At the end of the experiment body weight [BW] and serum creatinine were measured. Heart specimens were processed for light and electron microscopic examination, and morphometric analysis was performed for area percentage of intercellular spaces and collagen fibers. Group II showed significant widening of the interfiber spaces with aggregation of adipocytes, extravasated RBCs, and lymphocytes. There was also significant increase in the area percentage of collagen fibers. Cardiac myocytes appeared swollen, pale, and degenerated, and electron microscopic findings pointed to endothelial dysfunction. Se administration led to significant improvement in BW, creatinine level, and cardiac fibrosis; yet, the heart showed focal pale vacuolated myocytes, wide interfiber spaces, and extravasated blood. CKD led to definite focal degeneration in the cardiac muscle fibers. Se with the dose given improved BW, creatinine level, and cardiac fibrosis but could not offer complete protection against cardiovascular complication

histological study on the effect of pentoxifylline on acute lung injury induced by renal ischemia reperfusion

Kidney ischemia-reperfusion injury [IRI] occurs under many clinical conditions. It leads to acute kidney injury, which may affect various remote but important organs such as the lung. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of renal IRI on the lung structure and evaluate the possible protective effect of pentoxifylline [PTX]. Fifteen adult male Wistar rats aged 8-10 weeks and weighing 150-200 g were used in this study. They were divided into the following groups: group I [the control group] was subjected to sham operation; group II [the IRI group] was subjected to renal ischemia by bilateral clamping of the renal pedicles for 45 min and then allowed 24 h of reperfusion. Group III [the PTX-treated group] was given two doses of PTX [40 mg/kg] intraperitoneally and subjected to an ischemia-reperfusion procedure as performed in group II. Lung specimens were processed for light and electron microscopic examination. The mean thickness of the interalveolar septa and the mean number of type-II pneumocytes were measured. Group II showed diffuse lung injury affecting mainly the alveoli, which appeared flooded with exudate and red blood cells, which also extravasated in the interstitium. There was vacuolation of the cytoplasm of both type-I and type-II pneumocytes with significant increase in the number of type-II cells and depletion of lamellar bodies. Significant increase in the mean thickness of the interalveolar septa was detected and it showed infiltration by macrophages and neutrophils. PTX caused marked improvement in the lung structure after ischemia-reperfusion. Most of the alveoli appeared empty and a few of them showed minimal red blood cells and macrophages. Thin interalveolar septa were detected with thickness comparable to that of the control group. Renal IRI caused alteration in the lung structure, which was ameliorated by PTX administration

Effect of high salt loading on the retina of adult male rats with special reference to aquaporin 1: a histological and immunohistochemical study

In the retina, glial cells control ionic concentrations by mediation of transmembrane water fluxes through aquaporin [AQP] water channels. The risk factor of a high-salt diet on renal and cardiovascular systems is pretty well known. However, it is not yet known whether a high-salt diet alone can affect the retina. The aim of this study was to determine whether a high-salt diet alone can induce changes in the retina and whether it may be accompanied by changes in the expression and immunolocalization of water channel aquaporin1 [AQP1]. Forty-two adult male albino rats were used. They were divided into three equal groups. Group I served as the control group. Rats in group II were administered 2 ml of a high-salt solution [8% NaCl concentration] once daily by means of a gastric tube. Group III was the recovery group. Retinal tissues were collected and examined by means of light and electron microscopy. Immunohistochemical analysis using AQP1 and glial fibrillary acidic protein [GFAP] antibodies was performed and the results were statistically analyzed. The retina of rats given a high-salt diet [group II] displayed obvious disorganization of the outer segment of photoreceptors, together with cytoplasmic vacuolations in the cells of the inner nuclear and ganglionic layers. Furthermore, significant increase in AQP1 and GFAP immunoexpression was detected. In the recovery group [group III] the retinae of some rats regained their normal histological appearance, whereas others failed to do so. High salt loading might alter glial cell-mediated water transport through AQP1 channels in the retina

Histological and immunohistochemical study of nitric oxide synthase and effects of angiotensin receptor blockade in early phase of diabetes in rat kidney

Several studies have demonstrated that the pathophysiological and morphological changes in early diabetic nephropathy were mediated by an increase or decrease in nitric oxide [NO] production and/or activity. There are few reports suggesting a relationship between NO and the renin-angiotensin system. The present study was designed to determine the effects of early diabetic state on NO production and also to assess the possible effects of angiotensin receptor blockers [ARBs] on these changes. Thirty adult male albino rats were included in this study. Twenty were injected with streptozotocin for induction of diabetes. The other 10 were injected with the vehicle and served as control. Two days after injection, the diabetic animals were randomly divided into two groups of 10 animals each. One group was given valsartan as an ARB and the other group received no further treatment. Three weeks later, all animals were sacrificed and the kidneys were processed for obtaining paraffin sections. The sections were stained with H and E, Masson's trichrome, and periodic acid-Schiff. The sections were also stained with an immunohistochemical stain against endothelium-derived nitric oxide synthase [eNOS]. Diabetes induced histological changes in the form of glomerular hypertrophy, increased glomerular matrix, focal areas of tubular atrophy, medullary congestion, and slight fibrosis. Immunostaining was present in the control kidney in the glomeruli and in the collecting tubules of the medulla. Diabetes induced a positive reaction in the proximal and distal convoluted tubules and increased immunoreactivity in the collecting tubules. Treatment with valsartan resulted in an improvement in the morphology of the kidney and a reduction in the intensity of eNOS immunostaining. NO increases in early diabetic kidney and ARB in the form of valsartan could be recommended for preventing the development of diabetic nephropathy

Effect of leflunomide on sciatic nerve of adult albino rats: a histological and immunohistochemical study

Leflunomide is a commonly used disease-modifying antirheumatic drug. Potential clinical neurotoxic symptoms in patients treated with leflunomide in daily practice have been reported recently. It is unclear whether leflunomide is directly related to the occurrence of such nerve toxicity or whether other factors may be involved. This study was carried out to demonstrate the effect of leflunomide on sciatic nerve experimentally. For this purpose, 17 adult albino rats were used and were divided into three groups: a control group [five rats], the second group [seven rats], which received 2 mg/kg body weight of leflunomide orally once daily for 8 weeks, and the third group [five rats], which received 2 mg/kg body weight of leflunomide orally once daily for 8 weeks and left for 4 weeks withdrawal. Sciatic nerve specimens were processed for histological study by light microscopy, electron microscopy, and immunohistochemistry. The light microscopy data were morphometrically analyzed in the sciatic nerves of the groups. We observed splitting of myelin lamellae, presence of marked intramyelinic edematous clefts between the split myelin lamellae, infolded myelin loops, and myelin degeneration. Changes in the axons included formation of myelin rings and figures in some of the larger axons, degeneration, compression, irregularity, and shrinkage. Therefore, it is recommended that patients under leflunomide treatment should be regularly examined for neurophysiological effects of leflunomide on peripheral nerves

Histological study on the possible protective action of ginseng on the injurious effect induced by acrylamide on the midbrain in adult male albino rat

Acrylamide is a synthetic chemical compound commonly used in many branches of industry. Researchers have found acrylamide in certain foods that were heated to a temperature above 120[degree]C. Ginseng is a widely used herbal medicine with numerous beneficial effects. Ginseng is suggested to contribute to a protective effect in neurodegenerative disorders. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the possible protective effect of ginseng against the midbrain injury induced by acrylamide in adult male albino rats. A total of 35 adult male albino rats were used. They were divided into three groups. Group I [15 animals] was allowed water ad libitum and fed a standard diet [control]. Group II [10 animals] was given acrylamide orally by means of a gastric tube daily at a dose of 30 mg/kg for 4 weeks. Group III [10 animals] was given acrylamide daily at the same dissolution, dose, route and duration as group II concomitantly with ginseng solution through a gastric tube at a dose of 20 mg/kg. Samples from the brainstem were taken and processed for light and electron microscopic investigation. Light microscopic examination of the midbrain of the acrylamide-treated animals showed signs of injury. Glial fibrillary acidic protein-positive cells were more abundant in the midbrain of treated animals compared with control animals. Ultrastructural study of the midbrain of the acrylamide-treated group showed dilated RER in association with mitochondria with destroyed cristae. Many myelinated nerve fibers showed degenerative changes. These structural changes were much less pronounced in animals concomitantly treated with acrylamide and ginseng. Ginseng can reduce the severity of the injurious effects induced by acrylamide

Effect of alpha-lipoic acid on fundic gastric mucosal damage induced by acetyl salicylic acid: a histological study

alpha-Lipoic acid [ALA], an endogenous agent, has been shown to combat oxidative stress. The aim of the study was to evaluate the protective effect of ALA on fundic gastric mucosal damage induced by acetyl salicylic acid [ASA]. Fifty adult male albino rats were divided into four groups: group I [the control group], group II that received ALA for 2 weeks [subgroup IIa] and for 4 weeks [subgroup IIb], group III that received ASA for 2 weeks [subgroup IIIa] and for 4 weeks [subgroup IIIb], and group IV that received ALA 30 min before ASA for 2 weeks [subgroup IVa] and for 4 weeks [subgroup IVb]. At the end of the experiment, specimens from the fundus of the stomach were processed for light and electron microscopic examinations. The mean number of proliferating cell nuclear antigen [PCNA]-positive cells, parietal cells, and the mean thickness of the fundic mucosa were measured and the results were statistically analyzed. Examination of sections revealed that ASA for 2 weeks induced widening of the gastric pits and focal mononuclear cellular infiltration. The mucous content of the mucosa was apparently increased and PCNA-positive cells were significantly decreased compared with the control group. ASA for 4 weeks resulted in extensive desquamation, thinning out of the mucosa, and diffuse mononuclear cellular infiltration. The collagen content of the lamina propria showed an apparent increase, whereas the mucous content showed an apparent decrease. The parietal cell count and the PCNA-positive cells were significantly decreased compared with the control group. In ultrathin sections, parietal cells showed cytoplasmic vacuoles, decreased intracellular canaliculi, and mitochondria, whereas the chief cells showed dilated rough endoplasmic reticulum and decreased secretory granules. Concomitant use of ALA showed a histological profile nearly comparable with that of the control group in both subgroups IVa and IVb. ALA administration prevented the structural changes of the gastric mucosa induced by ASA

Effect of cyclosporine-A on the structure of adult albino rat testis and the role of lycopene supplementation: a histological and immunohistochemical study

Cyclosporine A [CsA] has improved the quality of life and survival rate of transplant patients. However, the oxidative stress induced by CsA limits its use as it causes side effects in different organs. Lycopene is an antioxidant found in tomatoes, water melon, and pink guava. This study aimed to investigate the histological and immunohistochemical changes occurring in rat testes following CsA intake and evaluate the role of lycopene supplementation. Thirty adult male albino rats were divided into three groups: group I, group II, and group III. Group I was divided into subgroup IA, which received distilled water, and subgroup IB, which received lycopene [10 mg/kg/day] dissolved in corn oil. Group II received CsA [15 mg/kg/day] dissolved in distilled water and group III received CsA+lycopene at the same doses as above. All treatments were given by oral gavage for 21 successive days. Testis samples were prepared for light microscopic [histological and immunohistochemical] and electron microscopic examination. The area percentage of bcl-2 reaction and height of the germinal epithelium were morphometrically measured and statistically analyzed. The germinal epithelial cells of the CsA-treated group were separated and were seen to contain dark nuclei. Sloughed germ cells in the lumen were seen. Ultrastructurally, primary spermatocytes showed vacuoles. Spermatids had shrunken nuclei and irregular distribution of mitochondria. Leydig cells contained lipid droplets of different densities with projecting multiple processes. The basement membrane was thick and contained multiple collagen fibers. The axonemes of the mid-pieces of sperms were disorganized with swollen mitochondrial sheathes. Statistically, the area percentage of bcl-2 reaction and germinal epithelial height showed a significant decrease in group II versus other groups. Lycopene improved the adverse effects of CsA in group III. CsA induced profound damage in the testicular structure in rats. It was ameliorated by concomitant lycopene administration. Thus, these results could be considered for further clinical investigations to recommend lycopene with CsA in transplant patients

Effect of zinc-free diet from weaning through puberty on the structure of the testis in albino rats, with a special focus on the Leydig cells

Zinc is an essential trace element. Many physiological processes would be impaired if zinc is not supplied in sufficient quantities in the diet. The aim of the work was to evaluate the effect of a zinc-free diet from weaning through puberty on the testicular structure of rats, with a special focus on the Leydig cells. Twenty weaned rats were divided into three groups. Group I [the control group] was fed a balanced diet. Group II [the zinc-free group] was fed a zinc-free diet for 3 months. Group III [the recovery group] was fed a zinc-free diet for 3 months, followed by a balanced diet for 1 month. At the end of the experiment, rats were weighed and blood samples were collected to measure the level of serum testosterone hormone. The testes were removed, weighed, and processed for light and transmission electron microscopic study. The zinc-free group showed a significant decrease in the mean body weight, testis weight, and serum testosterone level compared with the control group. The light and electron microscopic examination showed loss of most of the spermatogenic cells accompanied by variable degrees of degeneration in the form of karryorhexis and haphazard chromatin content. In the interstitial tissue, there was accumulation of exudate. Many Leydig cells showed dilated smooth endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria. Others cells showed accumulation of glycogen. Most of these changes were reversed after receiving the balanced diet in the recovery group. A zinc-free diet altered the structure of both the seminiferous tubules and the Leydig cells. Most of these alterations were reversed by zinc replenishment. Zinc is considered an essential element for maintaining testicular structure and spermatogenesis process