eng
Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
1110-0842
2356-9514
2007-06-01
27
1
1
14
10.21608/besps.2007.37106
37106
Original Article
L-NAME Induced Hypertension and Cardiac Remodeling as Modified by Angiotensin Receptor Blockade (ARB) in Experimental Animals (Rats)
Maged Haroun
1
Physiology Department, Faculty of medicine, Cairo University
Chronic nitric oxide blockade constitutes a new model of severe arterial hypertension. L-NAME or N-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (NO synthase inhibitor) produces inhibition of nitric oxide biosynthesis and promotes arterial hypertension & cardiac hypertrophy. As hypertension is a multifactorial syndrome, other factors beside the sympathetic nervous system overactivity, include the renin angiotensin aldosterone system & tonically active endothelium derived autacoids, nitric oxide (NO) and endothelin (ET1). The present study was carried out to assess & evaluate the contribution of the renin angiotensin system in the production of L-NAME hypertension syndrome and how angiotensin receptor blockade by ARB (losartan) can ameliorate the severe hypertension & cardiac hypertrophy & remodeling in this syndrome. In the present study,the systemic effects of 4 weeks oral administration of daily dose 40 mg/kg nitric oxide inhibitor L-NAME in male albino rats was evaluated on blood pressure & cardiac hypertrophy in this animal model. Age-matched untreated rats were used as control. In an additional group, nitric oxide blockade was carried out in conjunction with oral administration of angiotensin II receptor blocker losartan in a dose 30 mg/kg daily. The last group was given angiotensin II receptor blocker losartan alone. Measurement of the systolic blood pressure by indirect tail cuff method (Harvard apparatus), revealed progressive significant rise of blood pressure in L-NAME treated rats reaching 166.2 ± 7.13 mmHg after 4 weeks, compared with 105.3 ± 6.97 mmHg in control group. The magnitude of rise was 57.83%* (P<0.001). However, in rats treated concomitantly with ARB losartan, blood pressure reached only 128.6±7.02 mmHg. This value although markedly reduced, yet was still significantly higher when compared with those encountered in control group. In rats treated with ARB losartan alone, their blood pressure reached 100.7±5.98 mmHg with no significant difference from control group -4.37%† (P>0.05). This experiment showed that, although treatment with angiotensin II receptor blockade losartan largely attenuated the L-NAME induced hypertension, yet arterial blood pressure still remained elevated than in losartan treated & control groups. The other part of the study was carried out on cardiac hypertrophy that accompanied L-NAME administration for 4 weeks. Cardiac histological examination of myocardium of L-NAME treated rats revealed marked myocardial hypertrophy, enlarged myocytes & fibrosis with fibroblast infiltration (remodeling).Left ventricular hypertrophy was attenuated by ARB losartan, verifying the presence of intracardiac renin angiotensin system. It is concluded that angiotensin II receptor blockade can ameliorate the rise in the systolic blood pressure & cardiac hypertrophy in this model of L-NAME severe arterial hypertension, revealing the role of renin angiotensin system in this respect.
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_37106_1f07a98be896e0f6912f6227da443cef.pdf
eng
Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
1110-0842
2356-9514
2007-06-01
27
1
15
28
10.21608/besps.2007.37108
37108
Original Article
The Effect of L-Arginine onDiabetic Male Sex Organs
Mahmoud EL-Gharieb
1
Thanaa EL– Masry
2
Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine
Department of Pharmacology Facultyof Pharmacy, Tanta University
L-arginine is the substrate for the enzyme nitric oxide synthase ( NOS ), which is responsible for the production of nitric oxide (NO), an endogenous messenger molecule involved in many metabolic processes. The purpose of this work was to evaluate the effect of L -arginine on male sex organs under diabetic conditions. In this study three groups of adult male rats were used, the first as control, the second was alloxan – induced diabetic rats under control by insulin and the third was like the second but was treated with L-arginine for four weeks. At the end of the experiment , the rats were killed . The serum level of glucose, testosterone, body weight, serum cholesterol, penile nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activity, arginase activity in (seminal vesicle and prostate gland), lag time and erection time were estimated. The glucose level was significantly increased in both second and third groups due to effect of alloxan and was less significantly increased inthe third group due to the effect of L–arginine. There was also significant decreasein serum testosterone in the second and the third groups in relation to the control group, with no significant change between the second and third groups. There was a significant increase in the level of serum cholesterol and in the lag time in both groups 2 and 3, with significant decrease in the third group in relation to the second group. The other remaining parameters showed a significant decrease in both second and third groups in relation to the control group with significant improvement in the third group when compared with the second group due to the effect of giving L-arginine . We suggest that these findings due to the beneficial effect of L- arginine on the sexual functions of the male sex organs that were affected by diabetes.
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_37108_5b0c84cfba6d9d0909cb38144854cd69.pdf
eng
Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
1110-0842
2356-9514
2007-06-01
27
1
29
40
10.21608/besps.2007.37110
37110
Original Article
Effect of Cinnamon Bark on Glucose and Lipids Levels of Male Egyptian Type Ii Diabetes Mellitus Patients
Ghada Soliman
1
Biochemistry Department, National Nutrition Institute, Cairo
The present study aimed to determine the effect of cinnamon bark on blood glucose, triacylglycerol, total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and LDL cholesterol levels in patients with type 2 diabetes. A total of 30 patients (male) with type 2 diabetes, aged 30-50 years, were divided into two groups. Groups 1 and 2 consumed 1.5 or 3 g of cinnamon daily, respectively for 45 days.Results: After 45 days, cinnamon reduced the mean fasting serum glucose (17.63; 24.65%), total cholesterol (17.61, 24.25%), LDL cholesterol (21.73, 31.86%), triacylglycerol (19.62, 22.1%), and phospholipids (15.35, 26.02%) levels. Changes in HDL cholesterol werenot significant. It, also, reduced body weight, thus decreasing its body mass index (BMI).Conclusions: The results of the present study demonstrated that intake of 1.5 & 3.0 g of cinnamon per day reduces serum glucose, triacylglycerol, LDL cholesterol, and total cholesterol in patients with type 2 diabetes and suggest that the inclusion of cinnamon in the diet of patients with type 2 diabetes may reduce risk factors associated with diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, it, also, improves their body mass index (BMI).
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_37110_fcf816c1577a758829db57c9bbdd81e5.pdf
NIDDM
Lipid profile
Cinnamon
eng
Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
1110-0842
2356-9514
2007-06-01
27
1
41
58
10.21608/besps.2007.37113
37113
Original Article
Supra Renal Biological Lateralization in Albino Rats
Saad Taha
1
Salah-Eldin Elsayed
2
Mariam Ibrahim
3
Neven Aziz
emadmax71@yahoo.com
4
Physiology Dept., Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University
Physiology Dept., Faculty of Medicine, El-Minia University
Physiology Dept., Faculty of Medicine, El-Minia University
Physiology Dept., Faculty of Medicine, El-Minia University
In order to shade light on adrenal biological lateralization and its relation to age, sex, stressful condition and circadian rhythm, the present work was done on 12 groups of rats of both sexes (6 rats in each). These groups were classified according to age (young and adults), sex, condition (non-stress and cold restraint stress) and time of the day (9 am and 9 pm). All animals were anaethetized, dissected to get suprarenal gland on- both sides- out of the abdomen. The glands were weighted, their catecholamines and serotonin were determined by using the spectrofluorophotometer. The resultsrevealed a significant left lateralization of the gland weight and with right lateralization of its hormones in adult rats. Stress did not affect this lateralization. Also, the results showed a significant suprarenal medullary hormones lateralization in female rats compared with the male ones, with circadian lateralization of adult female rats. Data of the present study will open the door for further study, research and investigation about the role of supra-renal biological lateralization on stress developing disease, the role of supra-renal biological lateralization on age & sex related response to stress and also, circadian relation to stress response.
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_37113_462ef62f349cd6aef904c8d09f3e87b2.pdf
eng
Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
1110-0842
2356-9514
2007-06-01
27
1
59
76
10.21608/besps.2007.37115
37115
Original Article
Protective Effect of Vitamin C and Selenium Against the Toxicity Induced by Lead Acetate on Some Physiological Parameters in Blood of Male Albino Rats
Abd-El-Baset Abd El-Reheem
1
Samir Zaahkcuk
2
Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University Assuit branch
Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University Cairo
The objective of this study was to explore whether Vitamin C or selenium could be protective against the toxic effect of lead acetate. To achieve this purpose, certain hematological and biochemical parameters were studied. Twenty male albino rats (Rattus norvegicus), weighing about 130-150 gram were used. The rats were divided into four groups, each group included five rats. The first group was the control, the second group was administrated orally lead acetate (20 mg / kg of the body weight / day/four weeks), the third group was administrated orally with the same dose of lead acetate plus vitamin C (50 mg/kg body weight/ day/four weeks), the fourth group was given the same dose of lead acetate as the second group and plus sodium selenate in a dose of (0.1 mg /kg body weight/ day/four weeks). Food and water were allowed adlibitum for all the groups. The experimental period was four weeks. The results showed that there was a significant decrease in hematological indices studied in the second group (red blood count, white blood count, and hemoglobin concentration and haematocrit value) after the administration of lead acetate. Moreover, there were higher significantly increase in serum glucose, total lipids, cholesterol, urea and creatinine compared with the control group. The third group showed improvement in the hematological parameters,(red blood& white blood count ,hemoglobin concentration and haematocrit value ).Also improvement in the biochemical parameters of serum glucose ,total lipids ,cholesterol ,urea and creatinine compared to second group. The fourth group showed significant improvement compared with the second group. In addition, a significant decrease in serum glucose, total lipids, total cholesterol, urea and creatinine were found of this group. In conclusion, the results of different parameters studied in rats received orally vitamin C or selenium showed improvement compared with the rats orally received lead.
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_37115_1e4f7ef065542a529fba6b414dfae607.pdf
vitamin c
selenium
toxicity
Lead acetate
physiological parameters
male albino rat
eng
Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
1110-0842
2356-9514
2007-06-01
27
1
77
94
10.21608/besps.2007.37117
37117
Original Article
Role of dietary supplementation of methionine and Folic acid in early atherosclerotic Changes in adult male mice
Marwa Ahmed
mar_az_ahmed@yahoo.com
1
Manal Sead
2
Ola Omran
3
Heba Said
4
Physiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University
Histology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University.
Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University.
Histology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University.
Background: Homocysteine (Hcy) is an important intermediate product in normal metabolism of methionine. On the other hand, several studies have reported beneficial effects of folate on endothelial dysfunction. However the exact mechanism remains to be elucidated. Thus the objective of this study was to asses the relationship between total plasma Homocysteine (tHcy) and early atherosclerotic changes and whether Hcy exerts its effect through the vascular adhesion molecule (VCAM-1) or not. Study Design: Forty adult male mice were randomly divided into 4 groups, each group included 10 mice. Control group which received the control diet. Group II: which received the control diet plus methionine dissolved in drinking water (4.4%) at doses of 3-4 ml/day/mice for 8 weeks. Group III: received the control diet and methionine by the same previous dose and duration, concomitant with folic acid in a dose 1mg/kg. Group IV: received the control diet and methionine by the same previous dose and duration then followed by folic acid in the same previous dose for another 8 weeks. Blood samples were taken for estimation of tHcy ,total cholesterol (TC),High density lipoprotien (HDL),Low density lipoprotein (LDL), nitric oxide (NO) , superoxide dismutase (SOD) . Specimens from aorta were taken and processed for imunohistochemical staining of VCAM-1 and histopathological examination. Results: The plasma level of Hcy and cholesterol of group II were significantly higher than those of the remaining groups and there was a positive correlation between plasma level of Hcy and cholesterol. Although there was no significant difference between group I and group III ,there was a significant difference of these levels between group I and group IV. Plasma levels of LDL,HDL and triglycerides did not differ statistically between all studied groups. Plasma levels of NO in group II was significantly lower than the other studied group .Its levels in group I was significantly higher than that ofgroup III and group IV. Plasma levels of SOD of group II was significantly lower than the other studiedgroup. Although there was no significant difference between NO levels of group I and group III, there was a significant difference of these levels between group I and group IV. As regard the endothelial VCAM-1 expression, marked increase in the expression of VCAM-1 in group II. Low expression in group III (similar to the groupI). Moderate expression of group IV. The high expression of VCAM-1 in group II might be responsible for the observed histological changes; thickening of the aortic wall and adherent inflammatory cells to the irregular endothelial lining. Conclusion:Elevated plasma homocysteine is a risk factor for early atherosclerosis which was confirmed by the endothelial expression of VCAM-1. Prophylactic administration of folicacid has a beneficial effect more than its role as a treatment
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_37117_2bb138fc58afdae767bbee7b4adaac9d.pdf
eng
Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
1110-0842
2356-9514
2007-06-01
27
1
95
108
10.21608/besps.2007.37120
37120
Original Article
The potential protective antidiabetic effect of inosine in type 1 diabetic mice
Saad El-Sekelly
1
Salah El-Din El-Sayed
2
Department of Biochemistry , Faculty of Medicine El-Minia University
Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine El-Minia University
Inosine –a naturally occurring purine- was long considered to be an inactive metabolite of adenosine. However, recently inosine has been shown to be an immuno-modulator and anti-inflammatory agent. The aim of the present study was to determine whether inosine can affect the development of type 1 diabetes in mice. Type 1 diabetes was induced chemically by multiple low doses of streptozotocin. (MLDS). Mice were treated with inosine (100 or 200mg/kg/day) and diabetes incidence was monitored. The effect of inosine on oxidative stress also was determined. The results showed that inosine reduced the incidence of diabetes in streptozotocin-induced diabetes and also decreased the oxidative stress. The purine exerts anti-inflammatory effects in the pancreas, which is its likely mode of action. The use of inosine should be considered as a potential preventive therapy in humans susceptible to develop Type 1 diabetes.
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_37120_68b34c4985b60ea3b8555ac2f587dd7c.pdf
eng
Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
1110-0842
2356-9514
2007-06-01
27
1
109
118
10.21608/besps.2007.37122
37122
Original Article
Activin a and follistatin in chronic heart failure
Howaida Nounou
1
Azza Hassan
2
Hanan AbdelAziz
3
Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Egypt
Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Egypt
Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Egypt
Activin A a member of TGF-B superfamily has been involved in several pathologic processes. It is also accused to have a pathognomonic role in atherogenesis and the development of heart failure. Its activity is regulated by a glycoprotein called follistatin that bind activin preventing its function. uPA is a serine protease that activates plasminogen thus initiating a cascade of fibrinolysis and extra cellular proteolysis. The aim of this study is to assess the role of activinA, follistatin and uPA in patients with chronic heart failure and to find if there is any correlation among their levels. The present study was conducted on 30 patients with chronic heart failure as a result of cardiomyopathy or ischemic heart diseases (group I). There were 20 healthy subjects of matched age and sex involved in the study as a control group (group II). In both groups serum activin A, follistatin, uPA and lipid profile that included serum T.G, total cholesterol, LDLc and HDLc were estimated. Results:there was a significant increase in serum activin A and follistatin and a significant decrease of uPA in group I as compared to controls. As regard to lipid profile there was a significant increase in serum T.G, serum total cholesterol and serum LDLc in group I than group II while there was a significant decrease in patients than the controls regarding HDLc. There was significant positive correlation between activin A and urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA) in group 1. Conclusion:activin A/follistatin system may play a role in the pathogenesis of heart failure; also uPA could be suggested to have an important role in atherosclerosis and ischemic vascular disease that predisposes to heart failure due to the possible role of activin A cytokine in the fibrinolytic activity of uPA.
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_37122_dc1cf23bb668ea5e4b1430147c21c22f.pdf
eng
Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
1110-0842
2356-9514
2007-06-01
27
1
119
132
10.21608/besps.2007.37124
37124
Original Article
Relation between Melatonin and Other Markers of Oxidant/Antioxidant Status in Epileptic Children: Effect of Valproate Therapy
Aisha Eid
1
Omneya Afify
2
Amira Idris
3
Layla Sleem
4
Heba El Salamony
5
Jihan Ibraheim.
6
Department of Medical Biochemistry Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University.
Department of Pediatrics , Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University.
Department of Pediatrics , Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University.
Department of Pediatrics , Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University.
The aim of the present work was to investigate the relationship between serum melatonin levels and other markers of oxidant/antioxidant balance in epileptic children before and after treatment with the antiepileptic drug valproic acid (VPA). The study was conducted on twenty epileptic children prior to starting therapy, as well as on another twenty age and sex matched epileptic children receiving treatment with the antiepileptic drug VPA, for a minimum duration of one year. Fifteen age and sex matched healthy children were included as a control group. Serum melatonin, zinc, copper, and malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations and erythrocyte superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity were measured inall subjects. Mean levels of melatonin and MDA were significantly increased while SOD activity was significantly decreased in both untreated and treated epileptics versus control. However, the melatonin and SOD were significantly lower in treated versus untreated epileptics. The serum zinc levels were significantly lower while the serum copper levels were significantly higher in treated versus untreated epileptics. Melatonin was negatively correlated to MDA and copper and positively correlated to SOD. It thus seems possible that oxidant stress is associated with epilepsy and is aggravated with VPA therapy leading to relative reduction in melatonin (in treated versus untreated epileptics) and absolute reduction in erythrocytic SOD and serum zinc concentrations.
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_37124_f93f2b54fc90e9d4c6e878d6fb6f1f9c.pdf
Epilepsy
serum melatonin
zinc
copper
and malondialdehyde (MDA
) erythrocyte superoxide dismutase (SOD)
antiepileptic drug valproic acid (VPA)
eng
Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
1110-0842
2356-9514
2007-06-01
27
1
133
150
10.21608/besps.2007.37126
37126
Original Article
Angiogenesis Versus Antiangiogenesis in Colorectal Cancer Patients with and Without Liver Metastases
Aisha Eid
1
Moustafa EL-Shazli
2
Alia Ayad
3
Eman Zaki
4
Department of Medical Biochemistr, Faculty of Medicine , Cairo University.
Department of Surgery ,Faculty of Medicine , Cairo University.
Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University.
Department of Radiology, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University.
Angiogenesis is essential for tumor growth and progression and is mediated by positive and negative regulators of vessel growth. Since angiogenic mediators found in patient's serum have been postulated to reflect the angiogenic potential of a malignant tumor, the angiogenic stimulators activity such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and angiogenesis inhibitors such as endostatin have been evaluated in the serum of patients with colorectal caner (CRC) with and without liver metastases, in an attempt to study the prognostic value of the above parameters. The present work was conducted on thirty six patients with colorectal cancer and twelve control subjects. The patients' group included twenty localized colorectal cancer patients all of them had radical surgical resection. The second patients' group consisted of sixteen colorectal cancer patients with liver metastases. The serum endostatin and VEGF levels weresignificantly higher in the patients with colorectal cancer versus healthy controls. When compared according to tumor stage, the liver metastatic group had significantly higher levels of serum endostatin and VEGF versus the localized invasive group (without distant metastasis). Both groups of patients with localized invasive cancer and patients with liver metastasis had significantly higher mean serum endostatin and VEGF levels versus healthy controls. Serum endostatin and VEGF levels inlocalized invasive group decreased significantly after resection of the tumor. There was a significant positive correlation between preoperativeendostatin and VEGF levels inall cancer patients. High preoperative VEGF and endostatin levels were strongly associated with the tumor size, tumor grade, lymph node metastases and subsequent recurrence. Significant positive correlation was, also, detected between endostatin levels and number as well as volume of hepatic metastases.The previous results denote that serum levels of endostatin, and VEGF were elevated and positively correlated in patients with CRC. The elevation was associated with the stage of CRC, greater disease burden and subsequent recurrence. Thus, elevation ofserum levels of endostatin, and VEGF might be considered as indicators of tumor invasion and metastasis in the future. Thus, the present study demonstrates the prognostic utility of measuring angiogenic and antiangiogenic factors before resection of colorectal cancer.
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_37126_35c7889ebcc64df854e47a09ca4617ee.pdf
colorectal caner (CRC)
vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)
Endostatin
liver metastases
eng
Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
1110-0842
2356-9514
2007-06-01
27
1
151
170
10.21608/besps.2007.37129
37129
Original Article
Estimation of Serum Interleukin- 12 (IL-12), Interleukin-17(IL-17) and Soluble Vascular Cell Adhesion Molecule (s-VCAM) in Multiple Sclerosis
Omayma EL Kholy
1
Amira Hassouna
2
Ibtesam Fahmy
3
Reda Saad
4
Radwa Taha
5
Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University
Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University
Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University
Department of Radiology Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University
Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a complex and heterogeneous disease, and our understanding of the disease initiation mechanism and its wide clinical variability is limited. Cytokines and leukocyte endothelial adhesion play an important role in the initiation and maintenance of the inflammatory reaction in multiple sclerosis. The present study aimed to estimate the serum levels of IL-12 and IL-17 (cytokines) and sVCAM (an adhesion molecule) in different MS subtypes and to assess their relationship to disease activity, disability and MRI findings of cerebral atrophy. We analyzed serum levels of interleukins 12 and 17 (IL-12 and IL-17) and soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule (sVCAM) in 53 patients; 20 relapsing-remitting in remission (RRMS in remission), 16 relapsing-remitting in relapse (RRMS in relapse), and 17 secondary progressive (SPMS) and 15 healthy age and sex matched controls. For each patient the following were performed: clinical evaluation assessment of disability using Expanded Disability Status Scale Score (EDSS) and Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) assessment to detect the presence of cerebral atrophy and the extent of lesion load. Results:The mean serum levels of each of studied biomarkers IL-12, IL-17 and sVCAM were elevated in all MS groups compared to the control group. Significantlyhigher levels were detected in SPMS versus RRMS groups (whether in relapse or RRMS in remission) and were significantly higher in RRMS in relapse versus RRMS in remission. The three biomarkers were significantly correlated to each other. EDSS score showed significantly higher levels in SPMS compared to both RRMS whether in relapse or remission. However no significant difference was detected between RR in relapse and in remission. EDSS correlated significantly with IL-12 and correlated weakly with each of IL-17 and sVCAM. Patients with MRI signs of cerebral atrophy showed significant higher levels of EDSS score and serum IL-12, IL-17 and sVCAM levels versus patients without cerebral atrophy. A significant correlation was found between the presence of cerebral atrophy and the EDSS score. However, no significant correlations could be detected between cerebral atrophy and the biomarkers; IL- 12, IL-17 and sVCAM. Conclusion:Serum levels of IL-12, IL-17 and sVCAM are elevated in remission-relapse and progressive subtypes of MS and in MS associated with brain atrophy denoting that the inflammatory status in MS tends to persist in early and advanced stages of the disease. Immunomodulatory therapy targeting the above parameters
might seem to be beneficial to delay disease progression and/or reduces lesion activity. Except for IL-12 a rather weakrelationship exists between the above-mentioned markers and the degree of disability induced by MS, thus excluding their utility as reliable markers of disability.
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_37129_38a4c839d2caa4264a4ac04e1f4719e1.pdf
Multiple sclerosis
interleukin -12
interleukin -17
Vascular Cell Adhesion Molecule
cerebral atrophy
eng
Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
1110-0842
2356-9514
2007-06-01
27
1
171
184
10.21608/besps.2007.37132
37132
Original Article
The relationship between plasma vascular endothelial growth factor and plasma insulin like Growth factor-i levels on diabetic nephropathy in Patients with type 2 diabetes
Mohga Abdalla
1
Hayat Sharada
2
Sameh shakor
3
Ashraf Imen
4
Neveen ElTokhey
5
Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Helwan University
Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Helwan University
Internal Medicine Department, National Institute of Diabetes and Endocrinology(NIDE)
Clinical pathology Department, National Institute of Diabetes and Endocrinology(NIDE)
Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Helwan University
Plasma Vascular endothelial growth factors (p VEGFs) as well as plasma insulin like growth factors- I (pIGFs- I) has been implicated in the pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus. This study was performed to determine whether alternations of p VEGFs and pIGFs are related to diabetic nephropathy in type 2 diabetic patients.Patients & Methods:We examined the association of pVEGFs and pIGFs concentrations with fasting glucose levels, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c %), urinary measured renal parameters i.e. creatinine clearance and albuminuria in 75 patients with type 2 diabetes and 25 healthy controls. Study subjects were divided into four groups using urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR). Results:We confirmed that (i) both pVEGFs and pIGFs showed remarkable increase in all diabetic groups with worsen A/Cr ratio, as compared with controls. (ii) p VEGFs and pIGFs were increased in diabetic patients as long as glycemic control was not achieved. (iii) Vascular endothelial growth factor in plasma as well as plasma insulin like growth factors elevations were also revealed statistically. (iv) Direct positive correlation between pVEGFs and pIGFs-I with glycemic control index, albuminuria were noticed. Conclusion:The release of both p VEGFs as well as pIGFs was increased during the earlier stage of diabetic nephropathy and were significantly correlated with urinary albumin excretion. This suggested that pVEGFs could be used as an early sensitive marker for the diagnosis before the stage of microalbuminuria. and for predicting disease progression to start therapy very early.
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_37132_a85a9fb3fa712b9e047367cef5c51d4d.pdf
type2 diabetes mellitus
diabetic nephropathy
plasma vascular endothelial growth factors
plasma insulin like growth factors
eng
Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
1110-0842
2356-9514
2007-06-01
27
1
185
202
10.21608/besps.2007.37134
37134
Original Article
Role of Nitric Oxide in Neuromuscular Transmission and Its Effects at Different Frequencies of Nerve Stimulation
Mohamed Emran
1
Hemmat Kholousy
2
Samah El-Attar
3
Rasha El-Deeb
4
The Physiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University
The Physiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University
The Physiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University
The Physiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, MUST
Background:The free radical gas nitric oxide (NO) exhibits diverse vital roles in the human body.It is now recognized as a major messenger molecule. Neural NO-synthase is present in the sarcolemma of type II skeletal muscle fibers. In rats, the NO synthase pathway is present in skeletal muscle, vascular smooth muscle and motor nerve terminal. However, previous studies did not determine whether NO facilitates or impairs neuromuscular transmission in preparations indirectly stimulated at different frequencies. Aim of work: The study aims to examine the effect of NO in rat neuromuscular preparation at different stimulation frequencies and modulation of its effect by hemoglobin (NO scavenger). Methods: 30 rats were used in the experiment and were divided into 2 groups: GpI: rat diaphragms were electrically stimulated by supramaximal stimuli, at low frequency of 0.5Hz for 0.5msec, directly and indirectly to induce simple muscle twitch, GpII: rat diaphragms were electrically stimulated by high frequency of 100Hz, directly and indirectly to induce tetanic contraction. Rat diaphragms were bathed in Krebs solution. To investigate the effect of NO, L-arginine was added to the bath in a dose of 4.7nM/50ml bath. Then bovine Hb (50 nM /50ml bath was added to scavenge NO. A contact time of 3 minutes is allowed for each step and the amplitude of maximal contraction(∆Y), contraction time(∆X), and 1/2 relaxation time (1/2Rt) were measured in GpI, while only amplitude of maximal contraction was measured in GpII. Results: NO significantly increased ∆Y, ∆X and decreased 1/2 Rt when rat diaphragm preparations were stimulated indirectly at low or high frequencies. In contrast, when rat diaphragm preparations were stimulated directly at either low or high frequencies, NO significantly decreased ∆Y, ∆X, and increased 1/2 Rt. Bovine Hb completely reversed the NO effects. Conclusion: We can conclude that NO has dual actions, facilitatory and inhibitory, on skeletal muscle contraction using indirect or direct electrical stimulation respectively at both low and high frequencies. Bovine Hb antagonized the effects of NO in all experimental steps, giving an additional proof that the recorded changes were NO mediated.
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_37134_231dd8279b0b01820cf7042fdec0aeab.pdf
eng
Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
1110-0842
2356-9514
2007-06-01
27
1
203
220
10.21608/besps.2007.37136
37136
Original Article
Chronic Intermittent Hypoxia Protects the Rat Heart Against Ischemic/Reperfusion Injury by Modulating Apoptosis: A Possible Role for Endogenous Nitric Oxide
Samah El-Attar
1
The Physiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University
Background: Intermittent hypoxia has been shown to provide myocardial protection against ischemia/reperfusion injury. Cardiac myocyte loss through apoptosis has been reported in ischemia/reperfusion injury. The role of nitric oxide (NO) in modulating apoptosis in rats exposed to chronic intermittent hypoxia is controversial. The aim of the present work is to investigate the possible role of nitric oxide synthase inhibition on modulation of apoptosis in ischemic- reperfused isolated hearts of rats exposed to chronic intermittent hypoxia. Methods: Adult male albino rats were used and exposed to normaxic or hypoxic conditions as follows: Group I: Normoxic conditions (normoxia group), Group II : Chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH group) (10% O2 and 90% N2) for 8 hours daily, then to normal environmental air for the rest of the day, 5 days/ week for 4 weeks, Group III: Normoxic conditions and treated with L-NAME (10 mg/kg B.W.via intra-gastric route) (L-NAME group), Group IV: Chronic intermittent hypoxia and treated with L-NAME (CIH + L-NAME group) They had daily L-NAME(10 mg/kg B.W.via intra-gastric route) and exposed to the chronic intermittent hypoxia in the same way and duration as rats of group II. Isolated perfused hearts were subjected to 30 minutes of global ischemia followed by 30 minutes reperfusion. Left ventricular developed pressure (LVDP), contractility (dp/dt), and heart rate(HR) were recorded continuously. Expression of Bcl-2 in the myocardium was detected. Results: The parameters of functional recovery were improved in CIH group with significant increase in Bcl-2 expression as compared to normoxia group. Treatment with L-NAME led to attenuation of improved post–ischemic recovery of the ventricular function provided by chronic intermittent hypoxia with significant reduction in Bcl-2 expression compared with CIH group. Conclusion: adaptation to chronic intermittent hypoxia increases cardiac tolerance to ischemia/reperfusion. This protective effect was associated with increased expression of the antiapoptotic protein Bcl-2, that limits the apoptotic cell death in the myocardium following the ischemic/reperfusion insult. L-NAME attenuated both the improved recovery of cardiac function and the expression of antiapoptotic protein Bcl-2 induced by CIH.
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_37136_983f3d15834ff97bfed8343320f25a5c.pdf
eng
Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
1110-0842
2356-9514
2007-06-01
27
1
221
240
10.21608/besps.2007.37138
37138
Original Article
Amelioration of Acetic Acid-Induced Colitis in Rats by Oral Administration of Ginger Extract
Hala Abdel Gawad
1
Lamiaa Hammad
2
Hanan El-Abhar
3
Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University
Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy (Girl), Al-Azhar University, Cairo
Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronically recurrent inflammatory bowel disease of unknown origin. The aim of the present study is to evaluate possible protective effects of ginger extract (GE) on the extent and severity of UC causedby intracolonic administration of acetic acid in rats. Animals received either GE (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg) or sulphasalazine (500 mg/kg), for 3 consecutive days before intra-rectal acetic acid administration (1 ml, 4% v/v), and continued for another 7 days after the induction. The degree of tissue injuries was assessed by macroscopical and histopathological scores of the colonic mucosa. the biochemical studies involve the redox state including colon mucosal content of malondialdehyde (MDA) as an index of lipid peroxidation, glutathione (GSH) and protein carbonyl content (PCO) as indexes of protein oxidation as well as the activity of catalase and superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzymes in addition to some indicators of the inflammatory response myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, index of neutrophilic infiltration, and the tissue contents of tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), and prostaglandin E2(PGE2). Oral pretreatment with ginger extract and sulphasalazine were able to correct altered parameters significantly. Moreover, ginger extract attenuated the macroscopic colonic damage and the histopathological changes-induced by acetic acid. These results suggest a beneficial protective effect of ginger extract against acetic acid-induced colitis possibly by its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_37138_aaaeeca25b40624d87c0a7415161ba02.pdf
ulcerative colitis
Ginger extract
TNF-α
PGE 2
MPO
Oxidative Stress
Rats
eng
Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
1110-0842
2356-9514
2007-06-01
27
1
241
250
10.21608/besps.2007.37141
37141
Original Article
Serum Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1 in Liver Cirrhosis: Relation to Disease Severity and Development of Portal Hypertension
Soha Abdel-moneim
1
Ehab Abdou
2
Amany Osama
3
Nagwa Ahmed
4
Department of Tropical Medicine and Gastroenterology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University
Department of Tropical Medicine and Gastroenterology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University
Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University
Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine, Sohag university
Aims:To assess the level of Vascular Endothelial Growth factor (VEGF) and Insulin-like Growth Factor -1(IGF-1) in serum of patients with liver cirrhosis and correlate them to Child-Pugh classes and to correlate Vascular Endothelial Growth factor to Color Doppler indices of portal and splenic veins.Patients and Methods: fifty-five patients with liver cirrhosis and ten healthy controls were chosen. They underwent a thorough history, physical examination, abdominal ultrasonography and Color Doppler examination of portal vein and portal pressure. The serum levels of VEGF and IGF-1 were measured using commercial ELISA kits.Results: The median (and interquartile range) of serum VEGF was significantly lower in patients than controls (120ng/L [110-330] and 341ng/L [258-990] respectively, p value < 0.001), also there was a significant decrease in IGF-1 in patients than controls (34ng/ml [23-48.3] and 147.2ng/ml[125.8-220.2] respectively, p value < 0.000). There was a significant difference in median serum VEGF and IGF-1 levels among the different Child-Pugh classes (class A: 110ng/L [109-120], class B: 120.5ng/L [120-462], and class C 126.5ng/L [110-286], p value < 0.005 for VEGF and class A: 48.3ng/ml [42.8-49.4], class B: 23ng/ml [20.8-34], and class C 36.6ng/ml [32.3-49.7], p value < 0.000 for IGF-1). A significant positive correlation was noted between serum VEGF and maximum portal vein velocity and maximum splenic vein velocity (Spearman's r = 0.780, r = 0.693 respectively, p value < 0.000). A significant negative correlation was noted between serum VEGF and the hepatic artery resistance index and splenic hilar diameter (Spearman's r = -0.462, r = - 0.695 respectively, p value < 0.000). Significant positive correlation was found between IGF-1 serum levels and serum albumin (Spearman's r = 0.310, p value = 0.012). No correlation was found between VEGF serum levels and serum albumin.Conclusion: Circulating VEGF level in patients with liver cirrhosis could not serve as an indicator of the progression of liver cirrhosis but rather it may reflect developmentof complication in the form of portal hypertension. Also, liver cirrhosis is associated with changes in serum IGF-1 that is related to the degree of liver dysfunction.
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_37141_f45bf62aa7ff0ba2d7eabb778fadbe12.pdf
vascular endothelial growth factor
insulin like growth factor-1
Liver cirrhosis
Portal Hypertension
eng
Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
1110-0842
2356-9514
2007-06-01
27
1
251
274
10.21608/besps.2007.37144
37144
Original Article
Efficacy of Pentoxifylline as an Antifibrotic Drug in Experimental Murine Schistosomal Hepatic Fibrosis
Eman Khalifa
1
Heba Mahmoud
2
Ahmad Farrag
3
Hala Hamouda
4
Amal Baalash
5
Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine-Tanta University
Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine-Tanta University
Department of Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine-Tanta University
Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine-Tanta University
Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine-Tanta University
Aim: The present study was a preliminary trial evaluating the possible antifibrotic effect of pentoxifylline on experimentally induced schistosomal hepatic fibrosis and, also, to investigate its effect on serum leptin and transforming growth factor -β1 levels as possible antifibrotic mechanisms in correlation with the hepatic fibrosis indices. Methods: In the study, ninety Swiss, laboratory bred parasite free, albino mice of both sexes were included. Ten mice served as a control non-infected, non-treated group and sacrificed at one time. The remaining 80 mice were infected subcutaneously with 50 Schistosoma mansoni cercariae/mouse and classified into the following groups: Group I (infected & non-treated), group II (infected & treated with praziquantel), group III (infected & treated with pentoxifylline) and group IV (infected & treated with a combination of praziquantel and pentoxifylline). Each group was further subdivided into 2 subgroups; subgroup ‘a’ which started treatment at 6thweek post-infection (P.I.) and sacrificed at the end of 9thweek P.I and subgroup ‘b’ which started treatment at 14thweek P.I and sacrificed at the end of 17thweek P.I. The efficacy of the treatment was assessed by histopathological examination of the liver with measurement of granuloma size, estimation of hydroxyproline content in the liver, and assessment of serum levels of leptin and transforming growth factor-ß1 (TGF-ß1). Results: Praziquantel (PZQ) caused significant reductions in granuloma sizes and hepatic hydroxyproline content and caused non-significant reductions in serum levels of leptin and transforming growth factor- ß1 at the 9th& 17thweeks P.I (group II). Pentoxifylline (PTX) caused significant reductions in granuloma size, hepatic hydroxyproline, and serum levels of leptin and transforming growth factor- ß1 at the 9th& 17thweeks P.I (group III). Combined therapy of both PZQ & PTX in group IV caused more reductions in granuloma size, hepatic hydroxyproline, and serum levels of leptin and TGF- ß1 at the 9th & 17th weeks P.I when compared to the other groups. Conclusion: Pentoxifylline (PTX) is a promising antifibrotic drug, acting by reducing serum TGF-ß1 and leptin levels in the experimental schistosomal hepatic fibrosis. Also, the use of that antifibrotic drug in combination with antischistosomal drug, praziquantel (PZQ) was more effective in the control of fibrotic processes in schistosomal hepatic fibrosis.
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_37144_f559eff9f7784dbd356f9a1e72e382bd.pdf
eng
Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
1110-0842
2356-9514
2007-06-01
27
1
275
290
10.21608/besps.2007.37162
37162
Original Article
Diagnostic value of initial s-100b and neuron- specific enolase levels in diabetic patients with ischemic stroke
Nagwa Roshdy
1
Abir Zakaria
2
Hala Kahla
3
Suzan Samy
4
Department of Radiodiagnosis, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University
Internal Medicine Department , Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University
Internal Medicine Department , Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University
Medical Biochemistry Department , Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University
Diabetics have a high risk of ischemic stroke. The present study aimed at evaluatingthe diagnostic validity of immediate measurements of serum S-100B and Neuron-Specific Enolase (NSE) in comparison with neurological examinations and cerebralcomputed tomography (CT) findings in diabetic ischemic stroke patients. It alsoaimed at determining the possible influence of type 2 diabetes mellitus, either or notcomplicated with stroke, on serum levels of S-100B and NSE. Another objective of thecurrent study was the determination of serum malondialdehyde (MDA) as anindicator of lipid peroxidation (LPO) to detect any possible correlation between LPOand S-100B or NSE.This cross sectional study included 66 subjects; 46 diabetic patients and 20 healthysubjects. Participants were classified into the following groups: Group I: 25 diabeticpatients (type 2) with acute stroke. Group II: 21 uncomplicated controlled type 2diabetic patients. Group III: 20 apparently healthy age and sex matched controlsubjects. Serum levels of S-100B and NSE were assessed by ELIZA technique. MDAlevels were measured using a chemical method. Results of this work showed that themean levels of serum S-100B and NSE in diabetic patients with cerebrovascularstroke were significantly higher than the corresponding mean values inuncomplicated diabetic patients and in control subjects (P < 0.001). Serum S-100 Blevels in diabetic stroke patients showed significant positive correlation with theinfarct size as assessed by the CT brain ( r = 0.9816 , P < 0.001 ). Similarly, serumlevels of NSE correlated positively with infarct size (r = 0.9384, P < 0.001). Nosignificant correlation was observed between levels of S-100B and NSE on one handand glycemic control and duration of diabetes on the other. Also, MDA showedstatistically significant elevation in diabetics with stroke compared to itscorresponding values in uncomplicated diabetics and control groups (P < 0.001).In conclusion: Serum levels of S-100B and NSE correlated with the neurologicalclinical findings, as well as the infarct size as assessed by brain CT. So, S-100B andNSE measurements immediately after admission might help to reduce serial CT scansof the brain of ischemic stroke in diabetic patients. Future studies are recommendedto follow the S-100B and NSE serum levels after thrombolytic therapy. Elevation ofMDA in diabetic patients, which was significantly higher in diabetic patientscomplicated with stroke compared to uncomplicated diabetics, might direct theattention to further studies on the role of antioxidants in such patients.
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_37162_229b3eb21e460f5dab947b7548e26e5b.pdf
eng
Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
1110-0842
2356-9514
2007-06-01
27
1
291
316
10.21608/besps.2007.37163
37163
Original Article
Association between Serum Iron with Serum TNF-α, IL-6, IGF-1 and Lipids in Both Acute Myocardial Infarction and Unstable Angina Patients
Omyma Ahmed
1
Ramadan Sayed
2
Osama Ibrahiem
3
Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University Hospital, Assiut, EGYPT
Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University Hospital, Assiut, EGYPT
Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University Hospital, Assiut, EGYPT
Background: Pro-inflammatory cytokines (interleukine -6 and tumor necrotic factor-α) and Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) play important roles in pathogenesis of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and unstable angina (UA). In addition, serum iron overload or iron deficiency appears to be associated with atherosclerosis and ischemic myocardial damage. The aim of this investigation is to verify the role of inflammatory process and IGF-1 in pathophysiology of AMI and UA as well as to investigate the relationship of circulating IL-6, TNF-α and IGF-1 with the levels of serum iron and lipids in those patients. Methods: IL-6, TNF-α and IGF-1 were measured by ELISA assays in 18 patients with AMI and 18 patients with UA after their hospital admission, as well as in 6 healthy control subjects. Lipid profile was assessed by measuring the serum levels of total cholesterol, HDL-C, LDL-C and triglycerides. Serum iron was measured by atomic absorption flame emission spectrophotometer. Results: AMI patients with low serum iron showed significant higher levels of IL-6, TNF-α, LDL-C, cholesterol level and atherogenic index and lower levels of IGF-1 and HDL-C as compared with both low serum iron UA patients and healthy controls. On the other hand, AMI patients with high serum iron revealed non-significant differences in all previous parameters except IL-6 when compared with high serum iron UA patients. There was a significant positive correlation between serum iron with the levels of IGF-1 and HDL-C, as well as a significant negative correlation with the levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL-C, TNF-α, and IL-6 in both AMI and UA patients with low serum iron. In addition, in AMI patients with high serum iron, a significant positive correlation between serum iron with IGF-1 and HDL-C and negative correlation with remaining parameters was evident. Conclusions: Both AMI and UA patients were associated with a pro-inflammatory state (increased TNF-α and IL-6), increased risky lipids (cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL-C, atherogenic index) and decreased cardiac protective factors, such as IGF-1 and HDL-C. These findings support the role of inflammation in both patients' population as well as the protective role of IGF-1 in ischemic heart disease. In addition, low serum iron in both AMI and UA patients was associated with more proinflammatory state and less cardiac protection than normal subjects or patients with either normal or high serum iron. However, the deleterious effects of low serum iron were more in AMI than UA patients.
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_37163_5b6021e2ec8528d6ecde4b89f84c3b82.pdf
eng
Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
1110-0842
2356-9514
2007-06-01
27
1
317
328
10.21608/besps.2007.37164
37164
Original Article
Protective Role of L-Carnitine and Tocopherol Against Cold Restraint Stress Induced Gastric Lesions In Streptozotocin–Diabetic Rats
Salah eldin Elsayed
1
Saad Elsekelly
2
Physiology Dept., Faculty of Medicine, Minia University
Biochemistry Dept., Faculty of Medicine, Minia University
In the present study, the influence of cold restraint stress (CRS)-induced gastricdamage in diabetic rats, in relation to the antioxidative system was investigated. Malealbino rats were used in the study, they were divided into 5 groups: i): non stressedgroup, ii): control CRS group, iii) diabetic CRS group (the rats of this group wereinjected with streptozotocin (STZ) 70 mg/kg i.p. and used 4 weeks after induction ofdiabetes with blood glucose levels of >350 mg/dl), iv): STZ L-carnitine pretreatmentgroup (STZ-induced diabetic rat of this group were given L-carnitine 500 mg/kg 30min before CRS) and v): STZ-vitamine E pretreatment group (STZ-induced diabeticrat of this group were given vitamin E 60 mg/kg body wt three weeks before CRS).The last four groups were exposed to CRS, at the end of each experiment, gastricdamage was observed macroscopically. CRS induced gastric lesion, that wasmarkedly exacerbated in STZ diabetic rats, but this aggravation was significantlysuppressed by pretreatment with either L-carnitine or tocopherol (vitamin E)pretreatments. Diabetic rat stomachs showed significantly less glutathione peroxidase(GPX) activity as well as reduced glutathione (GSH) content than normal ratstomachs. In addition, the deleterious influence of diabetes on the gastric ulcerogenicresponse to CRS was significantly mitigated by decreasing lipid peroxidation bypretreatment with either L-carnitine or vitamin E. These results suggest that thegastric mucosa of diabetic rats is more vulnerable to cold restraint–induced injury,and the mechanism may be partly accounted for by impairment of the antioxidativesystem associated with a reduced GPX activity and GSH content. Based on thesedata, the beneficial effects of L-carnitine and vitamin E on CRS-induced mucosalinjury especially in diabetics may be attributed to their antioxidative effects.
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_37164_d58dd5cf7f1d4420cd789fbad073b763.pdf
eng
Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
1110-0842
2356-9514
2007-06-01
27
1
329
344
10.21608/besps.2007.37170
37170
Original Article
Incidence of silent hepatitis b and hcv genotype among chronic hepatitis c patients
Fouad El-Debaky
1
Mahasen Abdel Sattar
2
Adel Al-Kholy
3
Ibrahim Rageh
4
Hossam Amin
5
Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University
Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University
Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University
Department of Clinical Pathology & Hepatology, National Liver Institute†
Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University
This multi-center study was designed as a trial to explore the frequency of silenthepatitis B infection among hepatitis C patients and to determine the prevalentgenotype of hepatitis C virus (HCV) in these patients. The study comprised 45patients with post-hepatitic liver cirrhosis. All patients gave blood samples forestimation of liver function tests and ELISA estimation of serum levels of hepatitis Bsurface antigen (HBsAg) and anti-HCV antibodies; patients with HBsAg positivewere excluded off the study. Qualitative detection of HCV RNA and HBV DNA byPCR (home-made PCR) and quantitative PCR for estimation of HCV viremia andHCV genotyping by RFLP technique were performed. The HCV-Ab was detected inall samples irrespective of its clinical severity class with a mean viremia level of792336.7±400074.8; range: 134985-1957632 viral copy/ml as determined byquantitative PCR with a non-significant difference between clinical severity classes asregards viremia level. The HBV DNA was detected using qualitative PCR in 20samples (44.4%); 4 class A, 7 class B and 9 class C samples with a significantincrease of the frequency of silent HB in patients with class B (X2=5.446, p<0.01)and C (X2=8.154, p<0.001) in comparison to class A patients. Genotyping of HCVreported 41 samples (91.1%) with genotype-4 and 4 samples (8.9%) with genotype-1with a prevalence rate of HCV genotype-4 was 91.1%. There was positive nonsignificantcorrelation between both HCV genotype and the presence of silenthepatitis B infection and clinical severity, however, using the receiver operatingcharacteristic (ROC) curve analysis judged by the area under the curve (AUC) toevaluate the sensitivity and specificity of detection of silent hepatitis B infection andidentification of HCV genotype as predictors of severe hepatitis showed a nonspecificrole for genotyping for prediction of severity with AUC=0.467, while thedetection of HBV DNA using PCR in patients with HCV infection is a specificpredictor of severity with AUC=0.617. It could be concluded that HCV genotype-4 isthe most prevalent type in Egyptian Hepatitis C cirrhotic patients with an incidence ofsilent hepatitis B of 44.4% and its detection is a specific predictor of severe cirrhosis.
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_37170_322ea69b15cfd9e114b807f177554c88.pdf
Hepatitis
PCR
genotype
eng
Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
1110-0842
2356-9514
2007-06-01
27
1
345
362
10.21608/besps.2007.37173
37173
Original Article
Biochemical Study on Some Important Markers in Human Milk
Ramadan Sayed
1
Tahia Seleem
2
Thoria Eldeeb
3
Moustafa Abdella
4
Aida Mahmoud
5
Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of medicine, Assiut University
Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of medicine, Assiut University
Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of medicine, Assiut University
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Sohag University
Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Sohag university
Human milk offers the infants nutrients with high bioavailability as well as a largenumber of bioactive components such as lactoferrin, lysozyme and xanthine oxidaseenzyme that confer immune and non immune protection against pathogens in theinfant's environment. The objective of the present study was to evaluate thechanges that occur in the levels of lactoferrin, lysozyme and xanthine oxidaseenzyme in the different stages of human milk and to perform correlation between thelevels of these protective factors in each stage of human milk and between the levelof each and both the age and parity of the mothers. The present study included80 women divided into 3 groups, Group I: 25 mothers provided colostrum,Group II: 25 mothers provided transitional milk and Group III: 30 mothersprovided mature milk. The levels of lactoferrin and lysozyme and the activity ofxanthine oxidase enzyme were measured. Lactoferrin level and xanthine oxidaseenzyme activity were significantly lower in transitional milk and mature milkthan in colostrum (P < 0.0001) and lower in mature milk than in transitional milk(P < 0.01 and P < 0.001) respectively. On the other hand, the level of lysozymewas significantly lower in transitional milk than in colostrum (P < 0.01) but thereis no significant difference between mature milk and either transitional milk orcolostrum. There is no correlation between the levels of these parameters and eitherthe age or the parity of the mothers in the different stages of human milk. Thereis significant positive correlation between lysozyme and lactoferrin in group I (r =0.52, P < 0.01) and xanthine oxidase in group III (r = 0.44, P < 0.05). On the otherhand, there was significant negative correlation between lysozyme and lactoferrinin group II (r = 0.55, P < 0.01). In conclusion, human's milk and colostrumcontains important bioactive and protective agents that improve the infant's health.
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_37173_2c1fd865d111ac13c4f78012691edad9.pdf
eng
Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
1110-0842
2356-9514
2007-06-01
27
1
363
380
10.21608/besps.2007.37174
37174
Original Article
Some Vasoactive Mediators in Scorpion Envenomation of Children
Ramadan Sayed
1
Zeinab Mohey
2
Abdel-Raheim Abdel-Hafeez
3
Ahmad Nassar
4
Hussein Hussein
5
Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University
Department of Pediatric, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University
Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University
Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University
Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University
Scorpion envenomation in children is potentially fatal condition. Scorpionenvenoming cause an autonomic storm resulting in a massive release ofcatecholamines, angiotensin II, glucagon and cortisol. As a consequance of thesechanges, scorpion envenoming result in a syndrome of fuel energy deficits, producingmulti-system-organ failure and death. The objective of the present study was todetermine circulating levels of adrenaline, nor-adrenaline, angiotensin convertingenzyme (ACE), angiotensin II, kallikrein, nitric oxide (NO), aldosterone as well asNa+, K+ and Ca+2 in scorpion envenomed children. The relationship between thesevasoactive mediators and the severity of scorpion envenomation and the outcome ofenvenomed children would be evaluated. The present study included 40 scorpionenvenomed children of both sexes and their age ranged 1-13 years. According to theseverity of envenomation, they were divided into 2 groups, mild and severe. 10apparently healthy children were considered as control group. All of them weresubjected to complete clinical examination and routine laboratory investigations.Plasma levels of angiotensin II, adrenaline and nor-adrenaline were determinedusing ELISA assay. Serum aldosterone level was determined using RIA method. Theenzyme activities of kallikrein and ACE and NO level were determined usingspectrophotometric assay. Serum levels of Na+ and K+ were determined by flamephotometer and Ca+2 by flame atomic absorption. All of these parameters wereassayed on admission and after 24 hours. All envenomed children showed onadmission significant increase in levels of angiotensin II, adrenaline and noradrenaline,ACE, NO, aldosterone and Na+ in comparison with healthy control (P <0.01, P < 0.01, P < 0.01, P < 0.01, P < 0.01, P < 0.01, P < O.00l and P < 0.001)respectively. On the other hand, kallikrein activity, K+ and Ca+2 levels weresignificantly decreased (P < O.05, P < O.00l and P < O.05) respectively. However,on the second sample (after 24 hours) it was noted that the levels of ACE, angiotensinII and NO were still higher than those in healthy control (P < O.05, P < O.001 and P< O.05) respectively, but non significant difference was detected in kallikrein activityon comparing the second sample with healthy control. In conclusion, thesevasoactive mediators might play an important role in pathogenesis of multi-systemorganfailure and death that occur with scorpion envenomation
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_37174_a650d820197fa1f7e91408acd014be99.pdf
eng
Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
1110-0842
2356-9514
2007-06-01
27
1
381
392
10.21608/besps.2007.37175
37175
Original Article
Perinodopril, an angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor, attenuates experimental hepatic fibrosis
Heba Shawky
1
Samar Marzouk
2
Eman Obaia
3
Amira Hassouna
4
Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University
Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University
Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University
Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University
Liver fibrosis is considered as a progressive pathological process involving multiplecellular and molecular events that lead to deposition of excess matrix proteins in the extracellularspace. When that process is combined with ineffective regeneration and repair, there is increasingdistortion of the normal liver architecture, and the end result is cirrhosis. Emerging anti-fibrotictherapies are aimed at inhibiting the accumulation of fibrogenic cells and/or preventing thedeposition of extracellular matrix proteins. Although many therapeutic interventions are effective inexperimental models of liver fibrosis, the mechanisms underlying the anti-fibrotic effect on liverfibrosis remain unclear. The aim of the present study was to investigate the underlying mechanismsof anti-fibrotic effect of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI) on experimental liverfibrosis induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4). Thirty five white albino male rats of 150-200gaverage weight were randomly divided into three groups, Group I: The control group (n = 10),Group II: CCl4 injected rats without any treatment (n = 10) and Group III: CCl4 injected rats thatreceived an ACEI, perinodopril , dissolved in distilled water, 6mg/kg/day for 4 weeks (n = 15).Venous blood was collected from retro orbital vein for serum separation for assessment of liverfunctions. Liver tissue was subdivided into three portions for: pathological examination, estimationof transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) by ELISA andexpression of nuclear factor- kappa beta (NF-κB) in a trial to understand the mechanism underlyingthe anti-fibrotic effect of ACEI. Tissue TGF-β1, MMP-9 and NF-κB were significantly higher inCCl4 group (group II) compared with control group (group I) and they were decreased significantlywith administration of ACEI with CCl4 (group III). In conclusion, ACEI attenuates the progressionof hepatic fibrosis induced by CCl4 by reducing expression of NF-κB, TGF-β1, and MMP- 9.
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_37175_5ccf62bd907a04bd007c55dca821b02f.pdf
Liver fibrosis
TGF- β1
MMP-9 and NF-κB
eng
Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
1110-0842
2356-9514
2007-06-01
27
1
393
402
10.21608/besps.2007.37177
37177
Original Article
Serum Leptin and Nitric Oxide in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Mohamed Abd-elmoety
1
Ismail Mohamed
2
Department of Biochemistry, Sohag Faculty of Medicine, Sohag University
Department of Chest Diseases, Sohag Faculty of Medicine, Sohag University
Unexplained weight loss is common in patients with chronic obstructivepulmonary disease (COPD). Leptin not only is a critical regulator of body weight andappetite, but also serves as an immune-modulator. Nitric oxide (NO) is a potentrelaxant of bronchial and pulmonary artery and leptin has a regulatory role in itssynthesis. In the present study, the association of serum leptin levels with nitric oxidemetabolites (NO) in COPD was investigated. Methods: Serum leptin and NO levelswere measured in COPD patients [males (n=18) and females (n=15)] above fortyyears old compared with control group (n=30) in the same age matched group.Serum leptin levels were measured by enzyme linked immune sorbant assay (ELISA)technique. NO level was measured by spectrophotometric method. Results: Serummean leptin level was significantly lower in COPD male group (9.7 ± 4.1 pg/ml) andfemale group (11.1 ± 3.7pg/ml) than corresponding control group (male: 12.7 ±1.4pg/ml and female: 15.1 ± 1.5pg/ml) ( p <0.01 in both). Also, serum nitric oxide(nitrite and nitrate) in COPD male (18.4 ± 3.7μmol/L) and female group (15.9 ± 5.6μmol/L) which was lower than corresponding control group (male: 21.2 ±1.9μmol/Land female: 24.2 ± 2.5μmol/L) (p <0.01 in both). Conclusions: low serum leptinassociated with COPD is related with low BMI. Associated low nitric oxide serumlevel may be related to the pathogenesis of COPD.
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_37177_5f1cc2416d395c84fc09f3098f1b80d1.pdf
eng
Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
1110-0842
2356-9514
2007-06-01
27
1
403
424
10.21608/besps.2007.37181
37181
Original Article
Inhibition of Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) in Salt Receiving Fat-Fed Rats is Associated with Decreased Renal Oxidative Stress and Restoration of Neuronal Nitric Oxide Expression
Olfat Shaker
1
Samah El Attar
2
Laila El Said
3
Sandra Younan
4
Mary Youssef
5
Departments of Medical Biochemistry and Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University.
Departments of Medical Biochemistry and Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University.
Departments of Medical Biochemistry and Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University.
Departments of Medical Biochemistry and Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University.
Departments of Medical Biochemistry and Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University.
Impaired renal sodium excretion has been observed in fat induced obesity and wasclaimed to be multifactorial. Interestingly the subsequently developed hypertensioncan respond to one drug treatment, the angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor(ACE-I), suggesting a relationship between different causes of such impaired renalsodium excretion. This study aimed to elucidate such relationship and included sixgroups; group 1: rats fed the standard chow, group 2: moderately high fat diet(MHFD) fed rats, group 3: high salt fed (HSD) rats (4% Nacl for 1 week), group 4:MHFD+HSD, group 5: HSD+ACE-I and group 6: MHFD+HSD+ACE-I. It wasfound that 10 weeks of MHFD significantly increased the obesity index in groups 2, 4and 6 compared to groups 1, 3 and 5 respectively and the systolic blood pressure inresponse to HSD in group 4 compared to group 3. Moreover MHFD led to significantalbuminuria with significant reduction in urinary sodium excretion. Also MHFDincreased significantly the renal malondialdehyde level (MDA) as an index ofoxidative stress and angiotensinogen (AG) gene expression with significant decreasein urinary nitrites excretion and renal neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS)expression in group 2 compared to group 1 and in group 4 compared to group 3.While HSD for one week did not have an impact on these previous parameters asevident by their non-significant differences between groups 3 and 1 and betweengroups 4 and 2. However, ACE inhibition in group 6 decreased significantly its urinealbumin content, renal AG and MDA and significantly increased its urinary Na andnitrites excretion as well as its renal nNOS compared to group 4. Also ACE-Iimproved renal AG and nNOS in group 6 to be insignificantly different from those ofgroup 5. These previous results suggest that a link coexist between renalangiotensinogen upregulation and renal oxidative stress mediated decrease in NOavailability. In conclusion the MHF fed rats exhibited salt sensitivity accompanied byupregulation of renal angiotensinogen expression, increased oxidative stress anddecreased nNOS expression, all of which could contribute to salt retention andhypertension.
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_37181_1e475707b6ded42cc442e95262ecfdda.pdf
nNOS
sodium excretion
Oxidative Stress
eng
Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
Bulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences
1110-0842
2356-9514
2007-06-01
27
1
425
436
10.21608/besps.2007.37183
37183
Original Article
Therapeutic value of frankincense and myrrh In liver recovery after exposure to aflatoxin b1
Taha Kumosani
1
Jehad Yousif
2
Omayma Abou Zeid
3
Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University
Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Girl's Collage of Education, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Girl's Collage of Education, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Frankincense, (Gum Olibanum), and Myrrh, (Commiphora merrha), are of plantresins produce by the Burseraceae family, growing in Somali, India and Yemen. Theywere known for thousands of years as one of hoarding in the east. In order to studythe therapeutic value of such resins on liver recovery after exposure to aflatoxin B1, itwas administrated intra- peritoneal to male Wister Albino rats for 10 days, afterwhich Frankincense and Myrrh, (each one alone), were given in the form of waterextract to rats for 20 days. At the end of the study blood from all experimentalanimals was analyzed for some biochemical parameters including glucose,triglycerides, cholesterol, urea, uric acid, creatinine, bilirubin, hemoglobin and somekey liver enzymes as asparate amino transferase (AST), alanine amino transferase(ALT), gamma- glutamyl transferase (GGT). Liver tissue samples were analysed fortheir content of total proteins, deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), ribonucleic acid (RNA)and in addition to histopathological examination. This study demonstrated thatFrankincense and Myrrh are of certain therapeutic recovery value in liver afterexposure to AFB1.
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_37183_f1d3e2cf02d722a558d1f86f8c15e9ef.pdf