Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
1110-0842
2356-9514
29
2
2009
12
01
The Relationship of Insulin Resistance and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Effects of Metformin Therapy and ovarian Drilling
1
14
EN
Asmaa
Hassan
Department of Physiology ,
Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University
Omyma
Ahmed
Department of Physiology ,
Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University
Marwa
Ahmed
Department of Physiology ,
Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University
mar_az_ahmed@yahoo.com
Hosam
Hamed
Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology,
Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University
10.21608/besps.2009.36348
Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex reproductive<br />endocrine-metabolic disorder and insulin resistance (IR) is a common feature of it.<br />Objective: To clarify the pathophysiological mechanisms of POCS, highlight its basic<br />relationship with IR and to investigate the efficacy of metformin therapy and ovarian<br />drilling in these cases. Patients and Methods: Thirty two PCOS patients (sixteen<br />received metformin 850 mg twice daily for four months[group 1] and sixteen<br />underwent laparoscopic ovarian drilling [group 2]) and fifteen healthy controls were<br />included in this study. Body mass index (BMI) evaluation followed by ultrasound<br />examination for measurement of antral follicles count (AFC) in both ovaries, oral<br />glucose tolerance curve, fasting blood glucose, insulin and glucose / insulin ratio<br />(G/I) were measured in addition to serum total testosterone (T), leutinizing hormone<br />(LH) and insulin like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) for all subjects. These parameters were<br />reevaluated again 4 months after either types of treatment. Results: PCOS patients<br />had significant increase BMI, T, LH, IGF-1, fasting blood glucose, insulin level and<br />AFC but G/I ratio was significantly lower. Significant negative correlations between<br />fasting G/I ratio and either of BMI, T, and AFC respectively were evident. Impaired<br />fasting glucose level at baseline was observed in PCOS patients while after metformin<br />and laparoscopic drilling it was significantly improved. Metformin significantly<br />decreased BMI, serum T, LH levels, IGF-1 and AFC and increased the G/I ratio<br />versus pretreatment values. Also, ovarian drilling has similar but less obvious effects.<br />Conclusion: IR plays a vital pathophysiological role in PCOS patients as manifested<br />by causal relationship between insulin resistance and metabolic and reproductive<br />changes of PCOS. Metformin and ovarian drilling potentially improve these changes.
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36348.html
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36348_fc4ae24568a139273f6009027148cb5b.pdf
Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
1110-0842
2356-9514
29
2
2009
12
01
Evaluation of the Differential Effect of Female Sex Hormones on Hepatic Inflammatory and Apoptotic Markers in a Model of Acute Systemic Inflammation in the Female Rats
15
32
EN
Moshira
Rateb
Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University
Amira
Hassouna
Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University
Eman
Obaia
Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University
Samar
Marzouk
Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University
10.21608/besps.2009.36349
The present study was conducted to investigat the differential effect of estradiol benzoate and progesterone on systemic as well as the liver response to experimentally induced inflammatory states. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted on 48 female albino rats divided into six groups. Groups I and II consisted of non-ovariectomized animals. Ovariectomy was performed for the remaining 4 groups which were allocated randomly to receive one form of the following daily hormonal supplementation: Subcutaneous (SC) Estradiol benzoate 4μg/100g body weight (BW) , or SC progesterone 5mg/kg BW or; combined daily estradiol and progesterone supplementation or no hormonal supplement at all. At the end of three weeks period, acute systemic inflammation was induced by caecal ligation and puncture in all the groups except group I and the animals were sacrificed 24 hours later and both serum and liver tissue were isolated to evaluate inflammatory and apoptotic markers. Results: Ovariectomized animals subjected to systemic inflammation had significantly higher levels of serum Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), C reactive protein and Alanine Aminotransferease (ALT). They also had higher levels of expression of the enzyme inducible nitric oxide sysnthetase (iNOS) in the liver, and of the activity of both cycloxygenase II (COXII) and Caspase 3 enzymes when compared to non- ovariectomized animals subjected to systemic inflammation. Daily supplementation of ovariectomized animals with estradiol resulted in a significant reduction of all serum and liver tissue parameters of inflammation and apoptosis when compared to ovariectomized animals with systemic inflammation receiving no supplementary treatment. In contrast, daily supplementation of ovariectomized animals with progesterone resulted in a significant rise of all measured parameters of serum and liver tissue inflammation and apoptosis when compared to their corresponding values in ovariectomized animals with systemic inflammation and receiving no supplementary treatment. Conclusion: Estradiol supplementation that achieves physiological pro-estrus to diestrus levels in ovariectomized animals can reduce the excessive harmful effects of inflammation and apoptois on the systemic and liver tissue level while progesterone supplementation that achieves estrus physiological levels increases the release of inflammatory mediators and liver tissue apoptosis.
systemic inflammation,Liver,Estrogen,progesterone,apoptosis
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36349.html
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36349_711c3519f891822327dc620a7a70239a.pdf
Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
1110-0842
2356-9514
29
2
2009
12
01
Serum Adiponectin and Leptin as Predictors of the Presence and Degree of Coronary Atherosclerosis
33
50
EN
Nashwa
Abd El-Mottaleb
Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University
nashwa_ali1@hotmail.com
Hosam
Ali
Department Cardiovascular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University
Hosny
Hamed
Department of Clinical
Pathology, South Egypt Cancer
Institute.
Alaa
Abd-Elsayed
Department of Public Health and Biostatestics, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University
10.21608/besps.2009.36351
Background: Recently, the adipocyte derived proteins; adiponectin and leptin, have<br />been found to be associated with obesity, type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance,<br />hyperinsulinemia, dyslipidemia and the presence of coronary artery disease.<br />However, the association of these proteins with the degree of coronary<br />atherosclerosis has not been not been well elucidated. Objectives: To determine the<br />relationship between serum adiponectin and leptin levels and the presence and<br />degree of coronary atherosclerosis. Methods: Seventy patients performing diagnostic<br />coronary angiography in our catheterization laboratory for the investigation of<br />coronary artery disease (CAD) were recruited. The control group included (20<br />subjects) who were non-diabetics, non-hypertensives, with no history of previous<br />acute coronary syndrome, having normal ECG, of matched age, sex, body mass index<br />(BMI), and waist/hip ratio, performing coronary angiography for stable angina with<br />inadequate exercise test results, and proved to have a completely normal coronary<br />angiography. All cases and control were subjected to complete history and clinical<br />examination including 12 lead ECG, measurement of BMI, and hip/waist ratio.<br />Fasting blood glucose, full lipogram, serum adiponectin, and serum leptin were<br />measured. Angiographic evaluation of coronary atherosclerosis was performed by<br />assessing three atherosclerotic indices; severity (transverse disease), extent<br />(longitudinal disease), and pattern (lesion complexity). Results: The independent<br />predictors of the atherosclerosis lesion severity were larger waist/hip ratio (beta,<br />0.34), followed by higher LDL-cholesterol (beta, 0.32), low serum adiponectin level<br />(beta, -0.23), older age (beta, 0.19), higher leptin level (beta, 0.17), current unstable<br />angina (beta, 0.17), and finally previous myocardial infarction (MI) (beta, 0.14). This<br />model is a good one as indicated from the model adjusted r2 (50%). For the extent of<br />atherosclerosis index lower serum adiponectin level was by far the most important<br />independent predictor (beta, -0.45), followed by higher LDL-cholesterol (beta, 0.23),<br />older age and previous MI (beta, 0.21 for both), while higher serum leptin level was<br />only a univariate predictor. The model adjusted r2 was 65%. For the atherosclerosis<br />pattern index, the independent predictors were previous MI (beta, 0.31), lower serum<br />adiponectin level (beta, -0.29), larger waist/hip ratio (beta, 0.26), higher serum leptin<br />level (beta, 0.24), older age (beta, 0.22), and higher fasting blood glucose level (beta,<br />20). The model adjusted r2 was 62%. Conclusion: Both serum adiponectin and leptin might play an important pathogenic role not only in the occurrence but also in the severity, extent and lesion complexity in CAD patients.
adiponectin,leptin,severity,extent,pattern,coronary atherosclerosis
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36351.html
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36351_92b3032a8671b66d9879280d43603770.pdf
Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
1110-0842
2356-9514
29
2
2009
12
01
Evaluation of the Cyto-protective Effects of Erythropoietin on Contrast Induced Nephropathy in Rats
51
64
EN
Moshira
Rateb
Physiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University
Maie
Ismaiel
Radiology Department, Helwan University Hospital
10.21608/besps.2009.36352
Erythropoietin has long been used in renal failure patients for its hematopoeitic<br />properties. It has recently been claimed to possess cytoprotective effects on many<br />other cell lines including renal tubular cells .The aim of the present study was to<br />assess the possible effects of erythropoietin on prevention of contrast induced renal<br />failure in male rats. Methods: Thirty-two male albino rats were divided into four<br />groups (n=8 each): control (C), contrast media (CM), erythropoietin (E) and rats<br />treated with one single dose erythropoietin (4000 IU/Kg) IP 30 minutes before IV<br />injection of the high osmolar contrast media diatrizoate (6 ml/kg) (E+CM). All the<br />groups were subjected to dehydration for 72 hours before any injections were done.<br />Hematological indices, kidney function parameters, oxidative stress markers, tumor<br />necrosis factor alpha as a marker for inflammation and caspase 3 activity as a<br />marker for apoptosis were measured after 72 hours of injections. Results: Injection of<br />diatrizoate in dehydrated animals resulted in reduction of GFR, increased blood urea<br />nitrogen and serum creatinine. It was associated with increased TNFα release and<br />increased activation of caspase 3 as well as increased oxidative stress in kidney<br />homogenates. Erythropoietin injection prior to the injection of the contrast medium<br />significantly improved renal function parameters and was associated with a reduction<br />in TNF alpha production, a reduction of caspase 3 activity and an increase in<br />superoxide dismutase activity in the kidneys. Conclusion: Erythropoietin can infer<br />protective effects to the kidneys against contrast induced nephropathy through<br />mechanisms that are independent of its effect on the red cell mass.
erythropoietin,contrast medium,renal failure,Oxidative Stress,apoptosis
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36352.html
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36352_06b5701dabfdd92687150c56f8eef74c.pdf
Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
1110-0842
2356-9514
29
2
2009
12
01
The Contractility of the Diaphragm under Hypoxic Conditions in Aged Rats
65
82
EN
Ola
Tork
Physiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University
10.21608/besps.2009.36353
known to impair force generation and increases fatigability of respiratory and<br />peripheral skeletal muscles. The precise mechanisms involved in hypoxia-induced<br />impairment in contractile performance are incompletely understood, but oxidative<br />and nitrosative stress could be at play. Little is known about the effects of hypoxia on<br />the contractility of aged muscles. Aim: To investigate the effect of aging on the<br />contractility of unfatigued diaphragm under hypoxic conditions. And to ask whether<br />there is an age-specific difference in oxidative damage that could partially account for<br />the differential response of the contractility of the diaphragm to hypoxia with age.<br />Materials and Methods: This experimental work was conducted on 2 groups of<br />albino rats. Group I was the young adult rats (aged 8mo n=10). Group II was the old<br />one (aged 24mo,n=10). Rat diaphragm muscle strips from each group were studied in<br />vitro while aerated with 95% O2-5% CO2 (hyperoxia ,n=10) or 95% N2-5% CO2<br />(hypoxia,n=10). Results: The contractility was significantly decreased in old rats<br />when compared with young rats specially under hypoxic conditions. On the other<br />hand the markers of oxidative stress; MDA and nitrotyrosine were significantly<br />higher in old rats than adults. Conclusion: There is an age-specific difference in<br />oxidative damage that could partially account for the differential response of the<br />contractility of the unfatigued diaphragm to hypoxia with age.
aging,hypoxia,Oxidative Stress,diaphragm contractility,nitrotyrosin
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36353.html
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36353_cbf52852c3891f83f22272940cfce848.pdf
Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
1110-0842
2356-9514
29
2
2009
12
01
Short Communication Notes on the role of Echis coloratus and Naja nigricollis Snake venoms on neuronal cell death
83
94
EN
Ahmed
Abdel.Zaher
Zagazig University - Faculty of Science –
Department of Chemistry- Biochemistry division
King Saud University- College of science and
Arts in Shagra- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
10.21608/besps.2009.36354
In the present study murine hippocampal HT22 cells were employed to investigate the<br />role of Echis coloratus and Naja nigricollis snake venom on cell death. Monitoring of<br />the release of the cytoplasmic enzyme lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in the culture<br />medium after treatment of the cells with different concentrations (50ug/ml, 100 μg/ml)<br />from four fractions (F1, F2, F3 and F4) that obtained from each venom after<br />purification. The time variation (6, 12, 18 and 24 hours) of the LDH concentration in<br />the medium was used to indicate the total amount of lysed and, hence, the specific<br />rates of cell death. In the first 6h from treatment of cells with F2( 50 μg/ml ) from<br />Naja nigricollis venom( which is the most effective fraction in both venoms), LDH<br />released into cell culture media more than treatment of cells with F3 and crude<br />venom. Treatment of cells with a concentration of 50ug/ml and 100 μg/ml F3 Naja<br />nigricollis (after 12h and 24h) snake venom, LDH elevated more than F2 and crude<br />venom. Otherwise, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) was released into cell culture media<br />by treatment of the cell by 50 μg/ml F3 more than treatment of cells by F4 and crude<br />venom from Echis coloratus.
Echis coloratus,Naja nigricollis,HT22 cells- LDH
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36354.html
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36354_08e9ffa5e75821900ab3999f64ab7179.pdf
Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
1110-0842
2356-9514
29
2
2009
12
01
Effects of Praziquantel Treatment on the Levels of Total Bile Acids and the Basement Membrane Formation in Schistosomiasis: Correlations with the Severity of the Disease
95
108
EN
El-Shahat
Tosona
Chemistry Dep. (Biochemistry Division), Faculty of Science
(Damietta)
Kadry
Gad
Emergency Hospital, Faculty of Medicine,
Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
10.21608/besps.2009.36355
The pathological effects of schistosomiasis are due to immune responses of the host to<br />the eggs of the parasite leading to intestinal and hepatic granulomatous disease and<br />hepatic fibrosis. Therefore, biochemical serum analyses concomitant with<br />haematological, microscopical, ultrasonographical and clinical examinations were<br />performed on 45 Schistosoma infested patients and on 15 matched healthy controls.<br />According to the development of the liver damage, as was reflected by Child Pugh’s<br />score, the patients were classified into 3 groups, containing 15 patients’ each. The<br />patients of group I were suffering from simple intestinal bilharzial infestation and<br />those of the group II and group III were bilharzially infested patients with Child A<br />and Child B, respectively. The patients were treated with triple doses of praziquantel<br />(PZQ) and the levels of total bile acids, laminin P1 (LP1), liver function tests (LFTs)<br />and blood picture were evaluated before and after 6 months of the treatment. Also,<br />the presence of schistosomal antibodies, its ova in stool or positivity of rectal snip for<br />such ova, before treatment, were used as diagnostic tools of bilharzial infestation. At<br />the same time, the clinical and ultrasonographical parameters were evaluated and<br />their correlations with the previous parameters were calculated. It was found that,<br />Schistosoma infestation caused damage to the liver with subsequent elevations in the<br />mean values of total bile acids (TBA), the basement membrane component (LP1) and<br />the parameters of LFTs due to presence of periporal fibrosis. After PZQ’s treatment,<br />the levels of the previous parameters were retuned back into levels reaching those of<br />the control group. In conclusion, PZQ treatment can cause spontaneous resolution of<br />liver fibrosis. In addition, the levels of total bile acids and LP1 can reflect the severity<br />of liver damage and the susceptibility to PZQ’s treatment. Moreover, one can not<br />neglect the role of LP1 in the regulation of inflammation in schistosomiasis.
Schistosomiasis,praziquantel,laminin P1 and rectal snip
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36355.html
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36355_a7d7ef81650d5cfc46ba2fbabcb99b28.pdf
Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
1110-0842
2356-9514
29
2
2009
12
01
Responses of Ventilatory Functions to Breathing Exercise versus Breathing Exercise with Chest Mobilizing Exercise in Elderly
109
118
EN
Mohamed
Ibrahim
Faculty of Physiotherapy, October
6 th University
Uomna
Mohamed
Faculty of Medicine, October 6
th
University
Atta
Ibrahim
Faculty of Physiotherapy, October
6 th University
10.21608/besps.2009.36683
Ageing is a complex process involving many variables (e.g. genetics, lifestyle factors, <br />chronic diseases) that interact with one another, greatly influencing the manner in <br />which we age. The lungs of elderly persons are subjected to a life time of exposure to <br />known and unknown harmful agents. The aim of this study was to investigate the <br />responses of ventilatory functions to breathing exercise versus breathing exercise <br />with chest mobilizing exercise in elderly. In this study, 30 elderly subjects were <br />clinically examined & subjected to laboratory investigations, and then randomly <br />divided into 2groups (A & B), where group “A” received diaphragmatic breathing <br />exercise & incentive spirometer while group “B” received diaphragmatic breathing <br />exercise, incentive spirometer & chest mobilizing exercise. The variables related to <br />ventilatory functions Forced Vital Capacity (FVC), Forced Expiratory Volume at the <br />1<br />st<br />second (FEV1) & Maximum voluntary ventilation (MVV) had been measured <br />twice; 1<br />st<br />at the beginning of the program (pre-exercise) & 2<br />nd<br />after 8 weeks (post-exercise). The results showed that the ventilatory functions reported statistical <br />significant (p<0.0001) improvement at post-exercise within each group when <br />compared with pre-exercise mean values.
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36683.html
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36683_9a859ba026549cb86b5412b39bdb9bd7.pdf
Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
1110-0842
2356-9514
29
2
2009
12
01
Anti-Mullerian Hormone Serum Concentrationsin Women with Polycystic Ovaries and Normoovulatory Women of Reproductive Age
119
130
EN
Magdy
Al-Tahhan
Medical Biochemistry
Department,Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig, University.
Selem
El-Gendi
Obstetric & Gynecology
Department,Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig, University.
Abdallah
Diab
Obstetric & Gynecology
Department,Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig, University.
10.21608/besps.2009.36688
Background: Anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) is a member of the transforming <br />growth factor-βsuperfamily. It may play an important role in the ovarian <br />folliculogenesis.Objective:To study the relationship of AMH and some clinical, <br />endocrinal and ultrasound parameters in anovulatory infertile women with polycystic <br />ovary syndrome (PCOS) and in women with normal menstrual cycles. Methods:Sera <br />were collected from 30 PCOS anovulatory women and from 15 normal women during <br />the early follicular phase "day 3" of the menstrual cycle, stored frozen until assayed. <br />Results:Serum AMH concentrations were significantly (P<0.001) elevated in PCOS <br />women (9.55±3.39 μg/liter) compared with controls (2.33±1.8 μg/liter). In PCOS <br />patients, serum levels of AMH were correlated with features characteristics of PCOS <br />such as LH concentrations (r=0.76, P<0.001), testosterone level (r=0.67, P<0.001), <br />mean number of follicles (r=0.68, P<0.001)and ovarian volume (r=0.54, P<0.001). <br />Also, AMH levels were correlated withage (r=-0.51, P<0.001) and with cycle <br />duration (r=0.46, P<0.001). The correlation between AMH levels and FSH, estradiol <br />or BMI were found statistically non significant. Conclusion:The present study <br />provides evidence that serum levels of AMH is elevated in PCOS patients. This may <br />have a role in the disordered folliculogenesis characteristics of that disease.
Anti-Mullerian hormone,polycystic ovary syndrome
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36688.html
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36688_2eb59a6ff0514b7a6403a2dbe3ab767f.pdf
Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
1110-0842
2356-9514
29
2
2009
12
01
Importance of Evaluation of Urinary Iron and Transferrin in the Common Histopathological Types of Idiopathic Nephrotic Syndrome in Children
131
150
EN
Ghada
Abdel-Aleem
Medical Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University
Abu El-Hana
N
Pediatrics Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University
Zoair
A
Pediatrics Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University
Abd El-Hamid
T
Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University
10.21608/besps.2009.36694
Nephrosis with minimal glomerular changes, minimal change nephrotic syndrome <br />(MCNS) and focal-segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) are by far the predominant <br />causes of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS). Recently there is an increasing <br />interest in the role of iron in the causation of renal injury and deterioration of renal <br />function in adults and children with nephrotic syndrome. Urinary excretion of N-acetyl--D-glucosaminidase (NAG) may be useful as a marker of tubular dysfunction <br />and damage in idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS) which often characterizes <br />steroid-resistant children. The present studywas carried out to estimate the level of <br />serum and urinary iron and transferrin to evaluate the effect of their excretion in the <br />development of anemia in nephrotic children,also to clarify the prognostic value of <br />urinary iron according to the histopathological type of the disease. The present work <br />was also devoted to assess the role of immune system in the pathogenesis of <br />idiopathic nephrotic syndrome by determination of serum 2-microglobulin and <br />serum and urinary neopterin. The degree of tubular damage in the most common <br />histopathological types of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome was assessed by estimation <br />of urinary N-acetyl--D-glucosaminidase enzyme (NAG). The study was conducted on <br />45 children who were grouped as control group and nephrotic children group which <br />was subdivided into two subgroups: minimal-change nephrotic syndrome (MCNS) <br />group and segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) group. The study included fifteen in <br />each group with no significant difference inthe mean age and sex between the three <br />studied groups. All children in the study were subjected to thorough history taking, <br />complete physical examination and laboratory investigations which included serum <br />and urinary iron excretion per 24 hours, serum and urinary transferrin excretion per <br />24 hours, serum ferritin, total iron binding capacity, serum and urinary neopterin <br />excretion per 24 hours, serum 2-microglobulin, urinary N-acetyl--D-glucosaminidase enzyme (NAG) excretion per 24 hours, stool analysis for occult <br />blood to exclude gastrointestinal bleeding and finally renalbiopsy was done for all <br />nephrotic children enrolled in the study for histopathological examination. The <br />results of our study showed that idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS) is associated <br />with normocytic normochromic anemia despite the increased urinary losses of iron <br />and transferrin. Also, the results of this study showed that both serum neopterin and <br />2-microglobulin were significantly higher inboth nephrotic groups than the control <br />subjects. Serum neopterin level was significantly higher in FSGS group than MCNS group with no significant difference of serum 2-microglobulin between MCNS and FSGS groups. It could be concluded that estimation of urinary proteins, urinary iron and urinary NAG could be important for follow up and prediction of the prognosis in children with INS.
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36694.html
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36694_1a81b30d29326fa5beddac351dd24d3e.pdf
Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
1110-0842
2356-9514
29
2
2009
12
01
Serum Nerve Growth Factor, Interleukin-13 and Tumor Necrosis Factor - Αin patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
151
164
EN
Magdy
Al Tahhan
Medical Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University
Mervat
El-Toukhy
Rheumatology & Rehabilitation Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University
Ehab
Salem
Internal
Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University
10.21608/besps.2009.36701
systemic lupus erythematosus(SLE) is an autoimmune disease characterized by B-cell <br />hyperactivity, production of autoantibodyand abnormal immunoregulation. At <br />present, both interleukin-13(IL-13) and nerve growth factor(NGF) have been proved <br />to play a role in stimulating the proliferation and differentiation of human B-cells and <br />inducing immunoglobulin(Ig) synthesis.Tumor necrosis factor-a(TNF-a) is both a <br />proinflammatory and immunomodulatory cytokine. It was suggested to affect NGF <br />expression. Therefore, the present study was designed to determine serum NFG, IL-13 <br />and TNF-αin 31 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and to assess their <br />relationship with the disease activity as measured by SLE Disease Activity Index <br />(SLEDAI). The results showed that the levels of serum NGF (308±85 pg/ml), IL-13(92.69±9.87 pg/ml) and TNF-a (50.6±11.3 pg/ml) in active SLE patients were <br />significantly higher than those in inactive SLE patients (NGF, 244±76 pg/ml;IL-13, <br />54.22±9.31 pg/ml;TNF-a,29.4±9.8 pg/ml)(p<0.01. The inactive patients also had <br />significantly increased serum levels of NGF, IL-13 and TNF-a as compared with <br />normal controls( NGF,72.29±23.6 pg/ml;IL-13, 35.20±12.70 pg/ml; TNF-a,8.7±3.0 <br />pg/ml)(p<0.001). Spearman correlation analysis revealed that the serum levels of <br />NGF,IL-13 and TNF-a were correlated with disease activity index of <br />SLE(SLEDAI),ESR and serum levels of C3 and C4( NGF, r=0.442 , - 0.41, - 0.38 ; <br />IL-13, r=0.813 , -0.504 , -0.605 ;TNF-a, r=0.69,-0.43,-0.52 respectively).The serum <br />levels of NGF, IL-13 and TNF-a had a positive correlation ( r=0.506, p<0.01). <br />Significant positive correlations were observed between NGF, TNF-a and SLEDAI. <br />Also, a significant positive correlation was present between TNF-a and NGF <br />suggesting that elevated TNF-a levels may lead to a continued increase of NGF <br />production. In conclusion, the present results suggest that NGF, IL-13 and TNF-α<br />may play a role in the pathogenesis of SLE and closely correlated with the disease <br />activity, therefore they could be used as sensitive markers for evaluating the disease <br />activity.
NGF,IL-13 and,TNF-,Systemic lupus erythematosus
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36701.html
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36701_6126245c70ff995c350ef9aa9bf48567.pdf
Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
1110-0842
2356-9514
29
2
2009
12
01
Serum Levels of Hyaluronic Acid (HA) and Cartilage Oligomeric Matrix Protein (COMP). Predictors of Disease Progression in Rheumatoid Arthritis
165
178
EN
Manal
Safan
Medical Biochemistry,
Department, Faculty of
Medicine, Minoufia University
Maathir
El Shafie
Medical Biochemistry,
Department, Faculty of
Medicine, Minoufia University
Samer
Soliman
Rheumatology Department, Faculty of
Medicine, Minoufia University
10.21608/besps.2009.36707
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a disease characterized by destruction of joint structures <br />such as articular cartilage and bone. The pathogenic mechanisms responsible for <br />tissue destruction are not well understood. The aim of the present study was to <br />measure the serum concentrations of specific cartilage and bone molecules reflecting <br />tissue turnover to investigate disease activity. The study included 30 rheumatoid <br />arthritis (RA) patients with age range 42 – 66 years, sixteen patients were rapid <br />erosive patients and fourteen were slow erosive, compared with 20 matched normal <br />population with age range 40 – 63 years. All studied individuals were subjected to <br />full history taking clinical examination and laboratory investigations including <br />measurement of serum levels of cartilageoligomeric matrix protein (COMP), <br />hyaluronic acid (HA), high sensitive C- reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte <br />sedimentation rate (ESR) and RF concentration, measurement of activity of RA by <br />disease activity score ( DAS) 28 joint counts. The study showed a significantly higher <br />values of COMP, HA, CRP and ESR in slow erosive (P < 0.001) and rapid erosive (P <br /><0.0001) RA patients when compared to controls. There were significantly higher <br />values of COMP, HA, CRP and ESR in rapid erosive RA patients compared to slow <br />erosive RA patients. A significant positive correlation between serum levels of <br />COMP and HA and age, disease duration, Larsen score, DAS and CRP and ESR was <br />found. Also, there was a significant positive correlation between serum levels of <br />COMP and HA (r = 0.674, P <0.01). It could beconcluded that the measurement of <br />some serological biomarkers that reflect bone and cartilage destruction in RA <br />patients, could be used to investigate disease activity and increase the knowledge of <br />the basic pathophysiology of joint disease.
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36707.html
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36707_04fe7f180b36526e8a2200cb063a056f.pdf
Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
1110-0842
2356-9514
29
2
2009
12
01
Cyclosporine-Induced Oxidative Stress and renal Dysfunction in Rat kidneys: A Possible Ameliorated Effect by Curcumin as an Antioxidant
179
194
EN
Mohamed
Heibashy
Biological Applications Department, Nuclear Research Center, Atomic
Energy Authority
Walaa
El-Nahrawy
Zoology Department, Girl's Collage, Ain Shams
University
Nashwa
Zaki
Hepatology and Tropical Diseases Nation Institute, Cairo
10.21608/besps.2009.36716
Curcumin (CMN) has been well studied due to its economic and medical importance. <br />Traditional Egyptian Medicine claims the use of its powder against biliary disorders, <br />anorexia, coryza, cough, diabetic wounds, hepatic disorder, rheumatism and sinusitis. <br />The current study was designed to examine the possible beneficial effect of CMN in <br />preventing the acute renal failure and related oxidative stress caused by chronic <br />administration of cyclosporine (CsA) in rats. The study included two experiments, the <br />first one was carried out to follow up the changes that could occur in kidney function <br />as a result of cyclosporine (CsA) administration. Cyclosporine administration exerted <br />significant (P< 0.01) elevation of serum urea, creatinine, potassium (K), <br />parathormone (PTH), malondialdehyde (MDA) and asymmetrical dimethylarginine <br />(ADMA). Meanwhile, cyclosporine treatment exerted significant (P< 0.01) decline in <br />the level of serum sodium (Na) and total nitric oxide (NO), the content of kidney <br />reduced glutathione (GSH) and the activities of glutathione peroxidase (G<br />px), catalase <br />(CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) as compared with their corresponding <br />normal rats. In the second experiment, the nephritic rats were treated with curcumin <br />and remarkable corrections were occurred in all previous parameters. Thus, the <br />current investigation was designed to examine the possible beneficial effect of CMN <br />in preventing the renal failure and related oxidative stress caused by administration <br />of CsA in rats.
Cyclosporine,Curcumin,Kidney function tests,Rats
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36716.html
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36716_eed2c9e83a615c166cb0027a22a2c9a8.pdf
Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
1110-0842
2356-9514
29
2
2009
12
01
The Production of hydrogen Sulphide and the Effects of Nitric Oxide (NO) and Low Oxygen Conditions in Intrauterine Tissues in Rats
195
206
EN
Saad
El-Sekelly
Biochemistry Dept. Faculty ofMedicine, Minia University
Mohamed
Mahmoud
Obstetric and Gyncology Dept. Zagazig University
Morsy
Matar
Biochemistry Dept. Faculty of Vet. Medicine, Zagazig University
10.21608/besps.2009.36719
Hydrogen sulphide (H2S) is a gas signaling molecule which is produced <br />endogenously from L-cysteine via the enzymes cystathionine beta-synthase (CBS) and <br />cystathionine gamma-lyase (CSE). H2S may mediate hypoxic responses in vascular <br />smooth muscle. H2S also appears to be a signaling molecule in mammalian non-vascular smooth muscle. Hypoxia is associated with pre-eclampsia where poor <br />placental function can reduce the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the fetus resulting <br />in intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and other placental dysfunctions. Hypoxia <br />can also bring about other pre-eclamptic features such as the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress.Hypoxic conditions can also reduce the <br />uteroplacental perfusion, which may lead to inflammatory conditions i.e. oxidative <br />stress. However, there are no reports to date on the production of H2S in reproductive <br />tissues and the possible role of hydrogen sulphide in reproduction has not yet been <br />fully investigated. It has been previously demonstrated that hydrogen sulphide relaxes <br />uterine smooth muscle in vitro. We investigated the endogenous production of H2S in <br />rat intrauterine tissues and the effectof NO and low oxygen condition on H2S <br />production in intrauterine tissues. The production of H2S in rat intrauterine tissues <br />was measured in vitro using a standard technique. The expression of CBS and CSE <br />was also investigated in rat intrauterine tissues via western blotting. Furthermore, the <br />effects of nitric oxide (NO) and low oxygen conditions on the production rates of <br />hydrogen sulphide were investigated. The order of H2S production rates for rat <br />tissues were: liver (488±28.9 nM/min/g) > uterus (310±36.7 nM/min/g) > fetal <br />membranes (88.2±3.8 nM/min/g)> placenta (42.7± 6.8 nM/min/g). Under the effect of <br />NO donor, NO significantly increased H2S production in rat fetal membranes only <br />(from 88.2±3.8 nM/min/g to 103.2±7.4 nM/min/g). Under low oxygen conditions, <br />production of H2S was significantly increased compared to room air oxygen <br />conditions for rat liver (from 422±31.6 nM/min/g to 583±38.7 nM/min/g), uterus <br />(from 328±11.8 nM/min/g to 5913±21.8 nM/min/g) and fetal membranes (from <br />78.2±9.1 to 189±17.1) , but not rat placenta. Western blotting detected the expression <br />of CBS and CSE in all rat intrauterine tissues. Rat intrauterine tissues produce H2S in <br />vitro possibly via CBS and CSE enzymes.
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36719.html
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36719_ddecd5166a7e14551eed4ebcd9c3c4b3.pdf
Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
1110-0842
2356-9514
29
2
2009
12
01
Oral vitamin C administration Decreases Training Efficiency and Muscle Mitochondrial Biogenesis in Rats
207
218
EN
Saad
El-Sekelly
Biochemistry Dept. Faculty ofMedicine, Minia University
Mohamed
Hasan
Theoretical and Application Group sports Dept. Faculty of Sport
Education, Zagazig University
Ibrahem
Abd Allah
Physiology Dept. Faculty of Medicine, Minia University
10.21608/besps.2009.36720
Exercise practitioners often take vitamin C supplements because intense muscular <br />contractile activity can result in oxidative stress, as indicated by altered muscle and <br />blood glutathione concentrations and increases in protein, DNA, and lipid <br />peroxidation. There is, however, considerable debate regarding the beneficial health <br />effects of vitamin C supplementation. The present study was designed to study the <br />effect of vitamin C on training efficiency in rats. Thirty male Albino rats were <br />exercised under protocol for 6 weeks. Ten of the rats were treated with a daily dose of <br />500 mg/kg body weight of vitamin C (0.24 mg/cm2 body surface area). The <br />administration of vitamin C hampered endurance capacity. The adverse effects of <br />vitamin C may result from its capacity toreduce the exercise-induced expression of <br />key transcription factors involved in mitochondrial biogenesis. These factors are <br />nuclear respiratory factor 1and mitochondrial transcription factor A. Vitamin C also <br />prevented the exercise-induced expression ofthe antioxidant enzymes superoxide <br />dismutase and glutathione peroxidase. The study showed that Vitamin C <br />supplementation decreases training efficiency because it prevents some cellular <br />adaptations to exercise.
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36720.html
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36720_a25153a0d2702752b22759a78ed0f614.pdf
Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
1110-0842
2356-9514
29
2
2009
12
01
Determination of Matrix Metalloproteinases-9 in Egyptian Patients with Pulmonary Mycobacterium Tuberculosis
219
228
EN
Samir
El-Masry
Molecular Biology Depart ment, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research
Institute, Minufiya University, Sadat City, M inufiya, Egypt
Mahmoud
Khalil
Molecular Biology Depart ment, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research
Institute, Minufiya University, Sadat City, M inufiya, Egypt
Mohamed
Al-Badrawey
Chest Department, Faculty of Medic ine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
Mohamed
Shokhba
General health insurance organization, Ibn Sina polyclin ic, El-Mahalla El-Kobra
10.21608/besps.2009.36724
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) constitute a large family of enzymes that degrade <br />extracellular matrix proteins (ECM). MMPs are implicated in tissue remodeling <br />processes such as wound healing, and pregnancies. MMPs also participate in some <br />pathological conditions such as cancer. Recent studies have shown that MMPs are <br />induced by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) during pulmonary infection. The aim <br />of the present study was to determine the Matrix Metalloproteinases-9 (MMP-9) <br />levels in Egyptian patients with MTB compared to their levels in healthy control <br />individuals. Forty six patients with MTB (group I) and forty three healthy volunteers <br />(Group II) were included in the study. The concentrations of MMP-9 in the serum <br />samples of the two groups were determined quantitatively by human MMP-9 enzyme–<br />link ed immunoassay (ELISA) k it. The result showed that MMP-9 levels were <br />significantly higher in MTB patients (p<0.0001), compared to their levels in healthy <br />control group. MMP-9 levels were increased with increasing the severity of the <br />disease, since, their concentrations were significantly increased in complicated cases <br />compared with uncomplicated cases (p<0. 0001). In conclusion, our study suggests <br />that, the higher levels of MMP-9 in patients with tuberculosis may be due to <br />overexpression by a variety of cells including mononuclear phagocytes and <br />stimulated neutrophils. Also, MMP-9 levels were directly proportional with the <br />severity of the disease. Their rising levels may be used as indicator of MTB activity.
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36724.html
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36724_3dd009512631c51db38047c1e459064b.pdf
Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
1110-0842
2356-9514
29
2
2009
12
01
Diagnostic and Predictive Value of Some Tumor Markers in the Diagnosis and Follow Up of Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma
229
246
EN
Ghada
Abdel-Aleem
Department of Medical Biochemistry,
Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University
Ayman
Wagih
Department of Medical Biochemistry,
Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University
Sabry
Abousaif
Department of Tropical,
Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University
Mona
Abdel-Azem
Department of Pathology,
Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University
10.21608/besps.2009.36729
Early detection of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is essential for successful <br />treatment. Although the role of alpha fetoprotein (AFP) in the diagnosis of advanced <br />HCC is well recognized, at least one third of small HCCs and 15–20% of advanced <br />HCC will be missed unless another diagnostic tool is used. Thus, new serologic <br />markers with sufficient sensitivity and specificity are required. In the present study, <br />we aimed at evaluating the diagnostic and prognostic role of AFP, protein induced by <br />vitamin K absence or antagonist(P1VKA-II), vascular endothelial growth factor <br />(VEGF), sialic acid, alpha-L-fucosidase (AFU) and transforming growth factor-beta <br />1 (TGF-β1) in the diagnosis and follow up of Egyptian patients with hepatocellular <br />carcinoma in an attempt to find a tumor marker with a reasonable sensitivity and <br />specificity for diagnosis of HCC and monitoring patients after therapy. The study was <br />conducted on 4 selected groups of patients and a control group. Group I included 10 <br />patients with liver cirrhosis. Group II consisted of 10 patients with benign hepatic <br />focal lesions. Group III included 10 HCC patients without distant metastasis and <br />group IV included 10 HCC patients presenting with metastasis. Ten apparently <br />healthy age and sex matched subjects were also included and served as control <br />group. AFP, sialic acid, alpha-L-fucosidase (AFU), VEGF, PIVKA-II and TGF- β1 <br />were determined in the blood of five studied groups. The sensitivity and specificity of <br />the tumor markers were calculated and compared. Significant differences in the <br />median blood levels of AFP, PIVKA-II, VEGF, sialic acid, TGF- β1 and alpha-L-fucosidase activity (AFU) were found on comparing the HCC groups (with and <br />without metastasis) with the other groups. The median blood levels of PIVKA- II, α-fetoprotein level, sialic acid and AFU activity were lower in the HCC group without <br />metastasis compared to that with metastasis (p<0.001). On the other hand, the <br />median serum VEGF level was higher in the HCC group without metastasis <br />compared to that of the HCC group with distant metastasis(p<0.001). Serum TGF- β1 <br />level did not vary significantly between both groups (with and without metastasis) <br />(p>0.05). There were significant lower median blood levels of all parameters in HCC <br />patients without metastasis after ablation therapy compared to pretreatment levels. <br />Combined determination of serological markers could be used as a highly valuable <br />tool for screening and diagnosis of HCC as combination of these markers improved <br />their sensitivity and specificity. They could also be used as prognostic markers <br />decreasing the need for more invasive procedures.
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36729.html
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_36729_831030b2fbde3cf5f2fd2f88ad2319bf.pdf