Ulcerative colitis (UC) is among the most challenging human diseases. Nanotechnology has incontestable promising outcomes in inflammatory bowel diseases. This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic effect of naked gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) on dextran sodium sulphate (DSS) induced ulcerative colitis in mice. We also examined the expression of interleukin-17 (IL-17) following AuNPs treatment. Mice were randomly divided into control, DSS and DSS+ AuNPs groups. Severity of colitis was assessed by disease activity index (DAI) measurement. At the end of the experiment, the final body weights were recorded. The colon was dissected and processed for histopathological examinations by light and electron microscopes. Colon homogenates were prepared for assay of tissue malondialdehyde (MDA) and real-time PCR analysis of IL-17A. Immunohistochemical localization of IL-17A was carried out. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX) detector were used to detect the presence of AuNPs in the colonic tissue of DSS+ AuNPs groups. Our results showed that AuNPs effectively targeted the colonic tissue, and reduced changes induced by DSS. The underlying mechanisms could be related to anti-oxidant effect (as evident by decreasing tissue MDA) and anti-inflammatory potential of AuNPs. Our study draws attention to as a novel therapeutic strategy for treating UC.

No abstract

Background and Aim: The use of Doxorubicin (Dox) to treat various tumors is limited by its cardiotoxicity. This study aimed to compare the cardioprotective potential of vitamin E versus liposomal-Dox against cardiotoxic effects on the structure of left ventricle. Materials and Methods: Fifty male albino Wistar rats (180-220g) were divided into control (I), Dox (II), vitamin E with Dox (III) and liposomal-Dox (IV) groups. Groups II, III and IV received Dox and liposomal-Dox (3mg/kg) at days 1, 3, 5, 7, 9 and 11. Group III received Vitamin E (100mg/kg) daily with Dox administration. At day 12, blood was collected and left ventricles were dissected and prepared for LM and EM study. Results: Serum lactate dehydrogenase, creatine phosphokinase and creatine kinase-MB increased by 2.5 folds in Doxtreated rats compared to control rats, but decreased in vitamin E and liposomal-Dox groups compared to Dox group. The maximal decrease was in liposomal-Dox group with values near to control. LM examination of left ventricle from Doxgroup showed hemorrhagic areas between widely separated cardiomyocytes containing pyknotic nuclei. Inflammatory cells and adipocytes were seen in the interstitium. EM of Dox group showed variable sized mitochondria with ruptured cristae inbetween fragmented myofibrils. LM and EM examination of ventricles from vitamin E and liposomal-Dox groups showed mild changes with liposomal-Dox group appeared near to control. Left ventricular fiber diameter was decreased in Dox group compared to control group with nearly normal diameter in liposomal-Dox group. Area percent of collagen fibers increased and the optical density of desmin immune-expression was reduced in Dox group compared to control and liposomal-Dox groups which were alike. Conclusion: Dox-induced structural changes of rat ventricle were diminished by concomitant vitamin E intake. Liposomal-Dox administration-only-was more effective in reducing these changes; hence, it can accomplish a successful clinical target to decrease Dox-associated cardiotoxicity.

Monosodium glutamate in gesting (MSG) is steadily increasing worldwide as a flavour enhancer and food additive. On the other hand, vitamins C has antioxidant properties and can play an important role in preventing or improving many diseases. So, the aim of the present study is to study the impact of MSG administration on the histological structure of the zonafasciculata (ZF) of adult albino rat adrenal cortex and to clarify the possible amelioration effect of vitamin C cosupplementation. Thirty adult male albino rats were divided equally into three groups: group I; negative and positive (received100mg/kg vitamin C) control subgroups. MSG-treated group were administered 2 mg/g body weight MSG via gastric tube andascorbic acid supplemented group were given the same dose of MSG, followed by vitamin C at a dose similar to the positive control group. Tissue sections were obtained and proceeded for light and electron microscope examination. Plasma ACTH and cortisone were estimated. Morphometric and statistical analysis of the results were performed. Plasma ACTH and corticosterone levels in the MSG-treated group were significantly increased comparing to control and MSGtreated group receiving vitamin C. Histologically, in the MSG-treated group, ZF contained highly vacuolated cells and congested blood vessels. The reticular fibres were increased in MSG-treated group decreased in ascorbic acid supplemented group. Ultrastructurally, ZF contained cells with shrunken nuclei and numerous macrophages containing many lysosomes. On the other hand, the cellular architecture of ascorbic acid supplemented group was less affected and congested blood sinusoids were still detected. The reticular fibres were decreased in ascorbic acid supplemented group. Oral administration of MSG caused histological and functional degenerative changes in the ZF of adrenalin adult male albino rat which was ameliorated by supplementation of vitamin C. So, it is recommended to minimize consumption of foodstuffs containing MSG and to eat foods rich in vitamin C after performing more researchers to be sure of these effects on humans.MSG

No abstract