Egyptian Society for Physiological SciencesBulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences1110-084229120090601A Study on the Effects of Dietary Lactose on Ovarian Function and Body Weight in Normal and Obese Female Albino Rats1103632110.21608/besps.2009.36321ENRomysaEl-SherbenyPhysiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta UniversityMahmoudEl-GhariebPhysiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta UniversityJournal Article20090622This work was done to investigate effects of dietary lactose on ovarian function and body weight in normal and obese female albino rats. 36 female albino rats 150-170gm and 6 weeks old, were divided into two groups:(1)Normal group: composed of 18 rats divided into three subgroups: (A)Control group: received glucose in a dose of 41.9gm/100gm of standard diet for three months, (B)low lactose diet treated group: received lactose in a dose of 10.5gm/100gm of standard diet for three months (C)High lactose diet treated group: received lactose in a dose of 41.9gm/100gm of the standard diet for three months.(2)Obese group: composed of 18 rats received high fat diet for one month to induce obesity, then divided into three subgroups: (A) Control group: received glucose in a dose of 41.9gm/100gm of high fat diet for three months (B)Low lactose diet treated group: received lactose in a dose of10.5gm/100gm of high fat diet for three months (C)High lactose treated group: received lactose in a dose of 41.9gm/100gm of high fat diet for three months. At the end of the experiment, rats were weighed and blood collected from retro orbital plexus for determination of estrogen, progesterone, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), leptin. Vaginal cytology was done regularly to estimate estrus cycles cyclicity. The results showed significant reduction of body weight, estrogen, progesterone, and leptin in both normal and obese rats, and significant increase of FSH in normal and obese rats. Vaginal cytology showed disturbed and irregular estrus cycles. It can be concluded that, administration of lactose in low and high doses for long periods can affect the ovarian function, and caused reduction of body weight due to galactose content. It is recommended that, women with galactosemia and infertility must assess their galactose level which may be the cause of infertility.Egyptian Society for Physiological SciencesBulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences1110-084229120090601A study on the Effect of Erythropoietin Treatment on Healing of Renal Damage in Male Albino Rats11243632210.21608/besps.2009.36322ENRomysaEl-SherbenyPhysiology Department,
Faculty of Medicine, Tanta UniversityMohamedAbd El-RahmanPharmacology Department,
Faculty of Medicine, Tanta UniversityJournal Article20090622This study investigated the healing effect of erythropoietin treatment on renal damage<br />in male albino rats. This work was carried out on 24 male albino rats, divided into<br />four equal groups. Group (1) Control group: injected by 0.2ml saline intraperitonealy<br />(2) Mercuric chloride (HgCl2) treated group: rats were injected intraperitonealy by<br />single dose(3mg/kg) of HgCl2, group(3): Erythropoietin (Epo) treated group: rats<br />were treated by intraperitoneal injection of Epo (1000u/kg) /day for 2 weeks, and<br />group (4) HgCl2 and Epo treated group: rats were injected by single dose of HgCl2<br />and Epo for 2 weeks. At the end of experimental period, rats were sacrificed and<br />blood samples were collected and sera were separated for estimation of serum levels<br />of creatinine, urea, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione concentration,<br />malondialdehyde and haematocrit value. The abdomen was dissected and kidney was<br />excised and fixed in formalin for histopathological examination. The results showed<br />in HgCl2 treated group, significant increase in serum creatinine, urea and<br />malondialdehyde levels, and significant reduction in glutathione concentration,<br />glutathione peroxidase and haematocrit value (HV) levels compared with control.<br />Epo treated group showed significant reduction in serum levels of creatinine, and<br />malondialdehyde, and significant increase in HV value levels, compared with the<br />control. HgCl2 and Epo treated group showed, signification reduction in<br />malondialdehyde, creatinine and urea and significant increase in glutathione<br />concentration, glutathione peroxidase and HV compared with HgCl2 group.<br />Histopathological examination showed necrosis of renal tubular epithelium and<br />dilated proximal and distal tubules and wide Bowman's capsule in HgCl2 treated<br />group. HgCl2 and Epo treated group showed improvement of renal tubular<br />epithelium, mild dilatation of Bowman's capsule and bone marrow derived cells. It is<br />concluded that, Epo treatment improved renal damage due to HgCl2 and promote<br />healing of renal tissue, and it is recommended to be used in chronic renal disease.Egyptian Society for Physiological SciencesBulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences1110-084229120090601Effect of Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor Sertraline on Hormonal Regulation of Blood Glu25383632310.21608/besps.2009.36323ENRomysaEl-SherbenyPhysiology Department,
Faculty of Medicine, Tanta UniversityMohamedAbd-ElrhmanPharmacology Department,
Faculty of Medicine, Tanta UniversityJournal Article20090622The present work was done to investigate the effect of selective serotonin reuptake<br />inhibitor sertraline on the hormonal regulation of blood glucose in normal and<br />diabetic male albino rats. This work was carried out on 36 male albino rats. The rats<br />were weighed and divided into two groups, A-Normal group: subdivided into three<br />subgroups: Group (1): is the control group, group (2): treated by oral administration<br />of sertraline in a dose of 30mg/kg/day through intragastric tube for one week,<br />group(3): treated by oral sertraline in a dose of 30mg/kg/day through intragastric<br />tube for three weeks. B-Diabetic group: diabetes was induced by single injection of<br />50mg/kg streptozotocin intraperitonealy to all rats, then rats subdivided into 3<br />subgroups. Group(1): is the control diabetic group, group (2): diabetic rats treated by<br />oral administration of sertraline 30mg/kg/day through intragastric tube for one week,<br />group(3): diabetic rats treated by oral administration of sertraline 30mg/kg/day<br />through intragastric tube for three weeks. At the end of the experiment, rat were<br />fasted for night, weighed, scarified, and blood samples were collected for<br />determination of glucose, catecholamines, glucagon, ACTH, corticosterone and<br />insulin levels. The results showed significant reduction of blood glucose in normal<br />and diabetic groups after one and three weeks of treatment by sertraline. Epinephrine<br />was significantly increased after one and three weeks of treatment in normal and<br />diabetic groups. Norepinephrine and glucagon were significantly increased after<br />three weeks treatment by sertraline in normal and diabetic groups. Non significant<br />change of insulin, ACTH, corticosterone and body weight in normal and diabetic<br />groups. It is concluded that sertraline treatment induced hypoglycemia and stimulated<br />adrenomedullary response. It is recommended to use sertraline in diabetic patients,<br />and to reduce the dose of antidiabetic drugs during sertraline treatment.Egyptian Society for Physiological SciencesBulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences1110-084229120090601Study on the Trophic Effect of Human Recombinant Erythropoietin on the Developing Small Bowel in Neonatal Rats39503632410.21608/besps.2009.36324ENRomysaEl-SherbenyPhysiology Dpartment, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta UniversityMahmoudEl-GhariebPhysiology Dpartment, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta UniversityJournal Article20090622The present work was done to study the trophic effect of human recombinant<br />erythropoietin on the developing small bowel in neonatal rats. This study was carried<br />out on 24 neonatal rats aged 4-5 days, weighing 40-60gm, and divided into 4 groups<br />each containing 6 neonatal rats: Groups (1): was the control, group (2):<br />administrated enteral human recombinant erythropoietin(Epo) through intragastric<br />tube in a dose of 200 u/kg/day for one week, group (3): administrated enteral human<br />recombinant Epo in a dose of 1000 u/kg/day through intragastric tube for one week,<br />and group (4): administrated human recombinant Epo parenterally in a dose of<br />200u/kg/day for one week. At the end of the experiment, neonatal rats were weighed<br />and blood was collected by cardiac puncture, sacrificed , dissected and small<br />intestine was excised, length was measured and fixed in paraffin for histological<br />examination. The results showed that administration of enteral recombinant Epo in<br />dose of 200 and 1000 u/kg/day for a week caused significant increase in body weight<br />and small bowel length , and non significant effect on haematocrit value or plasma<br />erythropoietin concentration. The parenteral administration of Epo showed,<br />significant increase in body weight, haematocrit value, plasma erythropoietin<br />concentration and small bowel length. Histological examination showed, increased<br />surface area of intestinal mucosa and increased length of the ilial villi.. It is<br />concluded that, parenteral administration of human recombinant Epo has<br />haematopoietic and trophic effects on the small bowel. Enteral administration of<br />human recombinant Epo has a local trophic effect on small bowel, which is useful in<br />treatment of infants suffering from defective absorption due to short bowel syndrome.Egyptian Society for Physiological SciencesBulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences1110-084229120090601Working Memory Tasks Reflections on Electrical Activity of the Brain51583632610.21608/besps.2009.36326ENMagdyEl-BarbaryPhysiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal UniversityJournal Article20090622Introduction & rationale: Recent theoretical and experimental work has focused on<br />the changes of electro encephalographic waves in working memory and there has<br />been particular interest in oscillations in the theta and alpha frequency bands. It is<br />apparent that there are a lot of discrepancies among findings of different studies<br />concerning EEG during memory tasks. Aim of the work: was to assess changes in the<br />electric activity of the brain during working memory tasks. Subjects & Methods: A<br />cross-sectional descriptive study was done in the EEG unit in Suez Canal University<br />hospital to reveal the changes that occur in the electric activity of the brain during<br />Sternberg memory task performance. 43 subjects volunteered to our study. They all<br />underwent EEG recording during performance of a visual Sternberg memory task.<br />This EEG record was compared to another baseline EEG record done before task<br />performance to monitor the changes that occurred in the electric activity of the brain.<br />Results: Analysis of the EEG waves in parietal temporal and occipital brain areas<br />revealed that: There is significant difference between peak power frequency (PPF)<br />before and during task performance. As PPF in the theta band was significantly more<br />frequent during the task performance than before task performance (P< 0.05). While<br />PPF at central electrodes, in most of the subjects, have no significant difference<br />before and during task performance in the theta band. While theta waves are<br />significantly more frequent during the task performance than before task performance<br />at CZ (P< 0.05). There was a significant change in the Relative Power of beta1, beta<br />2 frequency band before and during task performance with P value<0.05. There was<br />non-significant change in the Relative Power of other frequency bands before and<br />during task performance (P>0.05). in addition the degree of task performance was<br />strongly correlated with power of beta 1 and delta bands before task performance.<br />Conclusions: We concluded that working memory task is reflected on the electric<br />activity of the brain in the form of peak power frequency in the range of theta<br />oscillations in parietal, occipital, temporal areas of the brain. There was a significant<br />increase in the relative power of beta 1, beta 2 frequency bands during task<br />performance. However, degree of task performance was strongly related to the<br />relative powers of beta 1 and delta frequency bands before task performance.Egyptian Society for Physiological SciencesBulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences1110-084229120090601Early Transplantation of Human Umbalical Cord Blood Stem Cell Can Improve Engrafment and Liver Response to Carbon Tetra Chloride induced Cirrhosis in Mice59723632710.21608/besps.2009.36327ENMagdyEl BarbaryDepartment of Physiology, Suez Canal UniversityHowaydaAbdel- AllDepartment of Pathology, Suez Canal UniversityMohamedMohy EldinDepartment of
Internal Medicine, Suez Canal UniversityAmalYousefDepartment of Physiology, Suez Canal UniversitySaharGreishDepartment of Physiology, Suez Canal UniversityJournal Article20090622Background: The potential use of UCB in the treatment of hepatic failure (a major<br />problem worldwide) has been a research focus for several years now. Recent studies<br />have identified UCB as a possible source of hepatic progenitor cells that can be<br />differentiated into hepatocyte in vitro and in vivo and can ameliorate fibrosis.<br />Objectives: the aim of this study was to investigate the hepatic response to<br />transplantation of HUCB stem cells in CCl4 injured liver in mice, as regard liver<br />function, histopathology and immunohistochemistry. Design: Experimental study.<br />Setting: The stem cell unit in the Physiology Department and the animal house after<br />cord blood collection in the Gynecology and Obstetric department, Faculty of<br />Medicine, Suez Canal University. Materials and Methods: Hepatic fibrosis was<br />induced by CCl4. HUCB stem cells were infused systemically through the tail vein<br />immediately (group 1), and after one week of receiving CCl4 (group 2), Group 3<br />received only CCl4 (as a control group). Administration of CCl4 was continued for 10<br />weeks in G1, G2 and G3, while group 4 (as another control group) received only the<br />solvent of CCl4 for 10 weeks. After that, blood from all groups was collected for<br />assessment of liver function, then all mice were sacrified under general anesthesia<br />and the liver was fixed and prepared for histopathological and immumohistochemical<br />examination. Results: It was found that the level of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) in<br />mice treated with stem cells after CCl4 administration was significantly lower while<br />serum albumin was significantly higher compared to group 3 animals who received<br />CCl4 without stem cells treatment (P= 0.001). Whereas serum total and direct<br />bilirubin levels were similar among all groups. histopathological examination<br />revealed that hepatic damage was less in the stem cells treated mice (G1 and G2) than<br />in non treated group (as regards liver cell changes, portal tract inflammation,<br />piecemeal necrosis, portal tract fibrosis and bridging fibrosis). However, liver<br />inflammation and fibrosis were more in mice treated after one week than in<br />immediately treated mice. Immumohistochemical examination, more importantly, IHC<br />staining with monoclonal mouse anti-human hepatocyte revealed presence of human<br />hepatocytes in injured mice liver which proved that the transplanted stem cells were<br />transdifferentiated into hepatocyte. Conclusion: HUCB stem cells were<br />transdifferentiated into hepatocyte when infused in mice injured liver and cause<br />improvement in liver function test and liver histology.Egyptian Society for Physiological SciencesBulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences1110-084229120090601Paraoxonase1 (PON1) 55 and 192 Polymorphism in Egypt and its impact on the antioxidant status of patients with Bilharzial and Viral liver diseases73883632810.21608/besps.2009.36328ENGharibFMedical Biochemistry Department, Faculty of
Medicine, Zagazig UniversityKaramAMedical Biochemistry Department, Faculty of
Medicine, Zagazig UniversityEl-NaggarZMedical Biochemistry Department, Faculty of
Medicine, Zagazig UniversityFargalyETropical Medicine Department, Faculty of
Medicine, Zagazig UniversityJournal Article20090622Background/Aims: It is now known beyond doubt that viral hepatitis (caused by B or<br />C virus) along with bilharzial infestation (mostly S. mansoni) are the most important<br />factors responsible for the vast majority of morbidity and mortality in Egypt. Based<br />upon the concept that oxidative stress plays a key role in the development and<br />pathogenesis of chronic liver diseases, many of the factors known to have antioxidant<br />properties are to be investigated for purpose of evaluating their role in the defense<br />mechanisms against all oxidant brunts associated with liver diseases. Serum MDA<br />was assayed as a famous marker of oxidative stress, while PON1 enzyme activities<br />were investigated as a marker of antioxidant properties. The polymorphism at 55 and<br />192 position known to be associated with PON1 enzyme are also investigated in<br />Egyptian normal and chronic liver patients, in order to elucidate whether such<br />polymorphism has any effect on the enzyme activity, and consequently the state of<br />hepatic affection. Whether routine assay of PON1 activity in chronic liver disease<br />patients can be introduced as a non-invasive clue marker for diagnosis and rating the<br />stage of hepatic affection is another aim of the present work. Methods: We studied 75<br />patients with chronic liver disease (25 patient with chronic Bilharziasis, 25 patients<br />with chronic hepatitis C, 25 patients with mixed hepatitis C and bilharzial cirrhosis)<br />and 25 apparently healthy controls. Serum paraoxonase activity and levels of the<br />lipid peroxidation marker (serum malondialdhyde) were measured<br />spectrophotomtrically. PON1 genotyping at positions 55 and 192 were analyzed by<br />PCR, restriction fragment length polymorphism and agarose gel electrophoresis.<br />Results: the present work showed that chronic liver disease (viral and/or bilharzial)<br />are associated with elevated oxidative stress (as indicated by increased MDA level)<br />together with reduced PON1-activities, which is regarded as an antioxidant tool. The<br />frequency of investigated polymorphism at 55 and 192 position were found to be of no<br />statistical significance between patients and control groups. The MDA and PON1<br />values did correlate with standard liver function. Conclusion: The present work<br />could introduce the assay of PON1 activity in the serum as a non-invasive, specific<br />and reliable marker in a trial to assess the state of liver affection in chronic hepatic<br />diseases.Egyptian Society for Physiological SciencesBulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences1110-084229120090601The Effect of Khat on the Levels of Cortisol and Lipid Profile in Healthy Khat Chewres89983632910.21608/besps.2009.36329ENAhmedAl-AkwaDepartment of Biochemistry,
Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sana’a UniversityJournal Article20090622Effect of khat chewing on the levels of cortisol, total- cholesterol, triglyceride and<br />lipoproteins cholesterol (HDLc and LDLc), in healthy khat chewers were studied in<br />fifty healthy Yemeni male adults. After 12 hours fasting (in controls) or after 12 hours<br />from the last session for khat chewing , serum concentration of these parameters were<br />determined. The results showed that the mean levels of serum cortisol as well as the<br />serum concentration of HDL-cholesterol were decreased as compared to non khat<br />chewer individuals (control group) (p<0.05), while the serum triglyceride mean level<br />was consistently higher after chewing khat and differences were statistically<br />significant (p-value<0.05) as compared to the control group. On the other hands the<br />mean concentration of total cholesterol and LDL-c in serum of khat consumers<br />showed a non-significant change, as compared to the control group (non khat<br />chewers).Egyptian Society for Physiological SciencesBulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences1110-084229120090601Study on the Effect of Apelin or Angiotensin-1 Receptor Blocker on Atherosclerotic Model991123633110.21608/besps.2009.36331ENMaessaEl-NahasDepartment of Physiology,
Faculty of Medicine Tanta UniversityFleurIbrahimDepartment of Pharmacology,
Faculty of Medicine Tanta UniversityWaffaIbrahimDepartment of Biochemistry,
Faculty of Medicine Tanta UniversityJournal Article20090622The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of apelin (one of adipokine) or<br />losartan (angiotensin-1 receptor blocker) on atherosclerotic and inflammatory<br />markers in hypercholesterelemic rats treated with angiotensin II injection. Forty male<br />albino rats divided into two groups Control n=8 and high cholesterol diet group n =<br />32 which were further subdivided into 4 subgroups. Saline, AngII, AngII + losartan<br />and AngII + apelin for 4 weeks. At the end of experiments their plasma were used and<br />analyzed for lipid profiles, TNF-alpha, NO, CRP and SVCAM-1 where they showed<br />significant increase in lipid profiles in saline and Ang II group and significant<br />decrease after losartan or apelin treatment. TNF-alpha., CRP and SVCAM-1 were<br />significantly increased after saline and Ang II, while decreased significantly after<br />losartan or apelin. The level of NO was significantly decreased in saline and Ang II<br />group and significantly increased after losartan or apelin. The present study indicates<br />that apelin exerts an antiatherogenic effect and counteracts the effect of Ang II like<br />losartan via inhibiting the atherogenic and inflammatory markers in<br />hypercholesterelemic rats.Egyptian Society for Physiological SciencesBulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences1110-084229120090601Hepcidin Levels and Iron Homeostasis During Early Infancy1131243633210.21608/besps.2009.36332ENSaeedHammadDepartment of Pediatrics, Batnan Medical Center, LybiaMahmoudEl-GhariebDepartment of Physiology , Faculty of Medicine,
Tanta UniversityMaherAbdel- HafezDepartment of Pediatric, faculty of Medicine,
Tanta UniversityJournal Article20090622Background: Iron status is usually assessed in children and adults through the<br />measurement of the concentrations of serum ferritin (SF) and serum soluble<br />transferrin receptor (sTfR), which reflect storage iron and cellular iron needs,<br />respectively. However SF and sTfR are difficult to interpret in infants. Hepcidinliver<br />hormone- is a negative regulator of iron absorption and mobilization. Objective:<br />We aimed in this study to characterize changes in hepcidin levels in healthy breast fed<br />infants in correlation to the dynamic change in iron status in this young age.<br />Patients and methods: 106 healthy breast fed infant were included in the study and<br />followed from 4 to 9 mo. Iron supplementation was given to infants with iron<br />deficiency (ID) at 6 mo till the age of 9 mo. Blood samples at 4, 6, and 9 months of<br />age were analyzed for hemoglobin (Hb), mean cell volume (MCV), zinc<br />protoporphyrin (ZPP), plasma ferritin, and transferrin receptors (TfR). Urinary<br />hepcidin was measure at 4, 6 and 9 mo. Results: In unsupplemented infants, Hb,<br />MCV and ferritin means decreased, whereas ZPP and sTfR means increased from 4<br />to 6 mo. Urinary hepcidin levels were decreasing with age between 4 and 6 months.<br />We found significant urinary hepcidin deficiency in ID group at 6mo. Changes of Hb<br />levels after iron supplementation were correlated significantly to urinary hepcidin at<br />the age of 6 mo (r=-0.756), less significantly correlated to sTfR(r=394) and serum<br />ferritin (r= 32). Conclusions: Iron deficiency in healthy full term infants is less<br />common at 4 mo but iron deficiency increased after that. Not all ID infants will<br />manifest by anemia and not all anemic infants are iron deficient. Urinary hepcidin<br />could help to early diagnose infants with true iron deficiency.Egyptian Society for Physiological SciencesBulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences1110-084229120090601Sub clinical Vascular Inflammatory Markers, and Carotid Artery Intimal-Media Thickening in Obese Children and Adolescents1251363633310.21608/besps.2009.36333ENSaeedHammadDepartment of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Omer El-Mukhtar University,
LybiaMahmoudEl-GhariebDepartment of Physiology,Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University.SamyKhodeirDepartment of Internal medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University.MaherAbdel HafezDepartment of
Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University.Journal Article20090622Objectives: Childhood obesity contributes to the development of adult obesity and<br />subsequent atherosclerosis, and cardiovascular disease. Associations between early<br />morphologic and functional vascular changes as Endothelial Dysfunction, and Sub<br />clinical vascular inflammatory soluble markers are in need for intensive assessment<br />especially in obese childhood. The present study aimed to investigate the relationship<br />of morphological vascular status (Carotid Artery intima-media thickness [IMT]) and<br />functional vascular changes as plasma endothelial markers (von Willebrand factor<br />[vWf], soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1(sICAM-1), soluble vascular cell<br />adhesion molecule-1 (sVCAM-1)), sP-selectin (sE-selectin), and high sensitive C<br />Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) concentrations in obese children, compared with controls.<br />Patients and methods: 35 obese children included 15 males and 20 females, and<br />twenty five healthy lean children of matched age and sex were included in this study<br />as a control. All underwent assessment of morphological vascular status by measuring<br />Carotid Artery intima-media thickness [IMT]) and analysis of plasma endothelial<br />markers (vWf, sICAM-1, sVCAM-1, sP-selectin, hs-CRP concentrations and Eselectin).<br />Results: Our results showed that in comparison with controls, obese<br />children demonstrated significantly increased IMT, We demonstrated that,<br />concentrations of soluble E-selectin, sICAM-1, sVCAM-1, sP-selectin and hs-CRP<br />concentrations were significantly elevated in obese children, whereas vWf showed no<br />significant differences between obese children and controls. Conclusions: The<br />present study documented that subclinical inflammation associated with obesity<br />increase the risk of early atherosclerosis in these children. Sonographic assessment of<br />vascular status and the estimation of soluble endothelial plasma markers, may form a<br />rationale to identify high-risk children susceptible to early atherosclerotic disease and<br />to monitor vascular changes during follow-up studies and therapeutic measures.Egyptian Society for Physiological SciencesBulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences1110-084229120090601Role of Advanced Glycation End Products and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor in Pathophysiology of Diabetic Retinopathy1371483633410.21608/besps.2009.36334ENMarwaAhmedPhysiology Department,
Faculty of Medicine, Assiut UniversityOmarAlyOphthalmology Department,
Faculty of Medicine, Assiut UniversityEhabWasfyOphthalmology Department,
Faculty of Medicine, Assiut UniversitySalwaWasfyPhysiology Department,
Faculty of Medicine, Assiut UniversityJournal Article20090622Background: The hyperglycemic state occurring in diabetes mellitus is responsible<br />for formation and accumulation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) that<br />participate with their receptors, receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE<br />) in the pathogenesis of vascular complications of diabetes mellitus. Intraocular<br />vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels have been studied in animal models<br />and human vitreous fluid, where the levels are found to be high in patients with active<br />intraocular neovascularization. Objective: To investigate the levels of AGEs ,soluble<br />form of RAGE (sRAGE) ,VEGF and total antioxidants (TAO) in both vitreous and<br />blood of diabetic patients with and without diabetic retinopathy. Study Design:<br />Blood and vitreous samples were collected from 30 diabetic patients, 15 with<br />proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR), 15 without retinopathy, and 15 non diabetic<br />control subjects. ELISA technique was used for measuring vitreous and blood levels<br />of AGE, sRAGE, VEGF and TAO. Results: AGEs, sRAGE and VEGF levels in blood<br />were significantly higher in all diabetic groups compared to controls and in PDR<br />patients compared to diabetic group. There were positive correlations between serum<br />AGEs, sRAGE and VEGF levels in both diabetic groups. Vitreous levels of AGEs and<br />VEGF were significantly increased in all diabetic groups compared to controls and in<br />PDR group compared to diabetic group. Also there were significant correlations<br />between these levels in both PDR and diabetic groups. Serum and vitreous TAO levels<br />were decreased in patients with diabetes compared to controls and in patients with<br />PDR compared to diabetics without retinopathy. Furthermore, Serum TAO levels<br />were inversely correlated with serum levels of AGEs, sRAGE and VEGF in all<br />diabetic patients. TAO levels in vitreous were inversely correlated with vitreous levels<br />of AGEs, and VEGF in all diabetic patients. Conclusion: These findings suggest that<br />the interaction of advanced glycation end products (AGEs), with their cellular<br />receptor (RAGE) and oxidative stress is implicated in the pathogenesis of diabetic<br />vascular complications through stimulation of VEGF.Egyptian Society for Physiological SciencesBulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences1110-084229120090601role of leptin and tumor necrosis factor- (tnf-) in mechanisms of anorexia during endotoxin infection in mice1491703633510.21608/besps.2009.36335ENMonaEl KarnMedical Physiology Department,
Faculty of Medicine, Assiut UniversityMohamedBadaryMicrobiology Department,
Faculty of Medicine, Assiut UniversityJournal Article20090622Background: Anorexia and loss of body weight are hallmark of infection. The actual<br />mechanisms by which infection induces anorexia are still unknown. Several proinflammatory<br />cytokines, most notably tumor necrotic factor- (TNF-), known to<br />initiate and modulate the host response to infection have been shown to induce<br />anorexia and weight loss in healthy animals. Leptin is a protein hormone produced by<br />adipose tissue. It is considered to be a satiety factor as it decreases food intake and<br />increases energy expenditure. Administration of bacterial endotoxin (LPS) or TNF-<br />induced increase in serum leptin levels, and leptin has been shown to act in an<br />endocrine fashion to decrease food intake and body weight. This suggests that leptin<br />may be one of the mechanisms by which anorexia is induced during infection. The<br />present study aimed to investigate the effect of endotoxin (LPS) and TNF-, on food<br />intake, body weight and serum leptin levels in mice. Also, to explain the different<br />possible mechanisms which can cause anorexia during infection and if leptin is<br />involved in these mechanisms. Methods: The study included 36 adult female mice<br />which were divided into 6 groups, 6 mice each. Group I: “control group”, received<br />single intraperitoneal (i.p) injection of normal saline. Group II, III, IV and V: “LPS<br />treated groups”, received a single i.p. injection of different doses of LPS, (0.1g, 1g,<br />10g and 100g/100g. body weight respectively). Group VI: “TNF- treated group”,<br />injected i.p. with TNF- in a dose of 17g/100g BW. Food intake and body weight<br />were measured over the next 18, 42, 66 and 90 h for animals of control and LPS<br />treated groups. Food intake by TNF- injected group was measured 18 h after<br />injection. Blood sample from each mouse of all studied animal groups was collected<br />18 h after different injections, then serum leptin level was assessed using mouse leptin<br />ELISA kits. Results: The study showed a significant (p is<0.001), dose dependent<br />decrease in food intake and body weight 18 h after injection in all LPS injected<br />groups (except for group II which showed a non significant decrease) when compared<br />with that of control group. Gradual recovery of food intake and body weight gaining<br />over the next 3 days occurred in low doses treated groups (groups II & III), while as<br />mice treated with large doses, (group VI & V), showed no food intake nor weight gain<br />over the subsequent 42 h. Thereafter, group IV began to increase their food intake<br />and body weight till the end of the study, whereas group V remained anorectic and<br />losing weight till the end of the study. TNF- injected group showed a significant<br />decrease in food intake, ( p is<0.001) as compared to the control one, that decrease<br />in food intake after TNF- injection is nearly similar to that induced by LPS
injection even in high doses injected groups (groups III & IV). Serum leptin levels<br />showed significant increase 18 h after LPS and TNF- injection in all injected groups<br />in a dose related manner, compared to that of the control group. The highest dose of<br />LPS injection to group V “100 g / 100 g BW” showed increased serum leptin levels<br />nearly 4 folds to that level of control group. The increase in serum leptin levels after<br />TNF- injection, did not reach the same levels of increase as after LPS injections<br />specially for the high doses of LPS “groups IV and V”. Conclusion: The present<br />study showed that both of LPS and TNF- can induce anorexia and increased leptin<br />level. The decrease in food intake is inversely proportional to the increase in serum<br />leptin. These data suggest a role for leptin in anorexia during LPS infection. Also, the<br />study revealed some possible mechanisms for anorexia during infection through the<br />cooperation between immune activation mediators (cytokines) and some hormonal<br />changes which can induce different host’s immune and metabolic response during<br />infection. As anorexia plays a critical role in chronic inflammatory diseases, it is<br />possible that development of leptin antagonists may play a useful role in decreasing<br />anorexia and wasting of chronic infections such as AIDS.Egyptian Society for Physiological SciencesBulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences1110-084229120090601Association of Serum C-reactive Protein Levels with Gamma Glutamyl Transferase and Cardiometabolic Risk Factors in Middle Aged People1711823633610.21608/besps.2009.36336ENKholoudRamadanDepartment of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science,
Ain Shams University, Cairo EgyptJournal Article20090622C-reactive protein (CRP) is an inflammatory marker shown to predict future<br />cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. The aim of the present study was to<br />investigate the association of serum CRP level as a marker of chronic inflammation<br />with gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT) as early marker of oxidative stress and their<br />association with cardiometabolic risk factors among a diverse community sample of<br />mid-life people, also to examine whether these relationships might vary by age, sex<br />and body mass index. The investigation was based on data derived from 100<br />apparently healthy volunteers (male 40, female 60) aged 20-50 years, had a BMI<br />between 24.2 and 37.7 kg/m2. Fasting serum CRP, GGT, uric acid and<br />cardiovascular risk factors were measured and assessed in relation to CRP.<br />Significant gender differences exist in the population distribution of CRP and GGT.<br />In addition, higher BMI was significantly associated with higher CRP and uric acid.<br />There was linear trend for increased prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors across<br />CRP categories representing medium (1-<3mg/L) and high (3-10 mg/L). After<br />adjustment for sex, age and body mass index, serum concentration of CRP was<br />positively associated with serum concentration of GGT and Uric acid (P<0.05). Body<br />mass index and systosolic blood pressure had the strongest association with CRP.<br />The prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MS) progressively increased with elevated<br />CRP levels. In conclusion, these data suggest that CRP is associated with two<br />markers of oxidative stress, GGT and UA and elevation of both CRP and GGT may be<br />worsening the atherogenic state. Furthermore, elevated CRP levels were associated<br />with adverse lipid profiles and metabolic syndrome.Egyptian Society for Physiological SciencesBulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences1110-084229120090601Serum Fetuin-A and Mitral Annular Calcification As a New Predictors For Significant Coronary Artery Disease1831983633710.21608/besps.2009.36337ENMahaHammoudahMedical Biochemistry Department, Faculty of
Medicine, Menoufiya UniversityZiziSaadCardiology Department, Faculty of
Medicine, Zagazig UniversityMohamedElrawyCardiology Department, Faculty of
Medicine, Zagazig UniversityJournal Article20090622Mitral annular calcification has been shown to be associated with atherosclerosis,<br />and is a predictor of cardiovascular events. Fetuin-A has recently been described as a<br />serum-based inhibitor of calcification. The present study was designed to evaluate the<br />predictive value of serum fetuin-A and mitral annular calcification in patients with<br />suspected/ diagnosed coronary artery disease. We prospectively studied fifty four<br />patients with suspected/diagnosed coronary artery disease without renal impairment<br />or rheumatic valvular disease. The patients divided into 3 groups according to fetuin-<br />A values. Group 1 low fetuin-A (32 patients). Group 2 normal fetuin-A (12 patients),<br />group 3 fetuin-A high fetuin-A (10 patients). Full clinical examination, transthoracic<br />echocardiography, coronary angiography, biochemical investigations offered to all<br />patients and fetuin-A level measured using EDI human fetuin-A ELISA kit. The results<br />of the current study showed a higher incidence of mitral annular calcification among<br />group 1 (59.4%) in comparison to other groups, on other hand the same group had<br />lower left ventricular ejection fraction percent and higher incidence of resting<br />regional wall motion abnormalities. Angiography showed a higher prevalence of<br />severe coronary artery disease in patients with mitral annular calcification than those<br />without. Group 1 had, also higher prevalence of left main stenosis (43.1%vs 0%)<br />P<0.05, and triple vessels disease (43.6%vs 13%) P<0.05. While the predictive<br />ability of Mitral annular calcification in detection of significant coronary artery<br />disease was highly significant P= 0.0001. There was significant negative correlation<br />between fetuin-A and hsCRP p<0.01and LDL-c p<0.05. One of the main findings is<br />the inverse association of serum fetuin-A concentration with Mitral annular<br />calcification as well as strong predictive value of both to presence of significant<br />coronary artery disease after multilogestic regression analysis. Conclusion: in<br />symptomatic patients with suspected coronary artery disease, the presence of low<br />fetuin-A level and mitral annular calcification, may be considered as independent<br />predictors for the presence of significant obstructive coronary artery disease.Egyptian Society for Physiological SciencesBulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences1110-084229120090601Expression of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Messenger RNA and Its Encoded Polypeptide Level in Various Liver Diseases1992123633910.21608/besps.2009.36339ENMohamedTahaBiochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, EgyptHebaSedrakDepartment of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, EgyptJournal Article20090622Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is the most potent mediator that has been found to be implicated in the development of tumor growth by promoting angiogenesis. The aim of the present study was to detect the gene expression of m-RNA of VEGF as well as serum level of its encoded polypeptide in patients with various liver diseases to assess whether they are correlated with different clinical, laboratory and histological parameters of these diseases. Subjects and Methods: forty five patients (33males, 12 females) with various liver diseases including chronic hepatitis C (n=15), liver cirrhosis (n=15) and hepatocellular carcinoma (n=15) and fifteen healthy age-matched controls (9 males, 6 females) were included in the study. Gene expression of VEGF m-RNA was studied in tissue samples of all patients using reverse transcriptase-PCR and its encoded polypeptide level was detected in all subjects using ELISA technique. Results: Gene expression of VEGF m-RNA was significantly higher in HCC group as compared to CHC and LC groups. Meanwhile, there was significant statistical difference in VEGF gene expression between CHC and LC groups. Similar statistical differences were reported in the mean serum level of VEGF polypeptide. VEGF m-RNA expression as well as its serum level were correlated significantly with serum albumin only in cirrhotic patients (r = 0.612 and r = 0.577 respectively). There was a significant positive correlation between the serum VEGF level and platelet count in HCC patients (r = 0.421) and negative correlation exists between VEGF levels and platelet count in other patient groups and that correlation was highly significant in patients with chronic hepatitis (r = - 0.646). Conclusion: Gene expression of m-RNA of VEGF and its encoded polypeptide level were highly over-expressed in HCC and diminished in LC, so its measurement is highly recommended for early detection of malignant transformation of LC to HCC and makes VEGF one of the most important markers of HCC. Moreover, the HCV was able to activate the expression of VEGF in chronic hepatitis C patients.Egyptian Society for Physiological SciencesBulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences1110-084229120090601Gastroprotective Potential Effects of Statins on Indomethacin-Induced Gastric Ulcers in Rats2132283634110.21608/besps.2009.36341ENHanaaIbrahimDepartment of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, EgyptMohamedEL.MoselhyDepartment of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Minia University, Egypt.SalamaAbd-El-RahimDepartment of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine,
Minia University, Egypt.Journal Article20090622Statins (3-hydroxy-3-methyl glutaryl-CO A reductase inhibitors) exert favorable<br />effects on lipoprotein metabolism but may, also, possess antioxidant and antisecretory<br />effects which have led to the interest in the use of that class of drugs outside<br />treatment of cardiovascular diseases. Here, the effects of atorvastatin in experimently<br />induced gastric acid secretion and ulcer formation and the mechanisms underlying<br />that protection in rats were explored. Animals were randomly assigned to three<br />experimental groups (control, indomethacin, and indomethacin+atorvastatin groups).<br />Pyloric ligation was performed for collection of gastric juice, and gastric ulceration<br />was induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of indomethacin (40mg/kg).The<br />following parameters were assayed (volume of gastric secretion and acidity, the level<br />of mucus, and proteolytic activity in gastric juice; lipid peroxides (MDA), nitric oxide<br />(NO), and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) in gastric mucosa). Pretreatment with<br />atorvastatin (10 mg/kg orally for 7 days) caused significant reduction in gastric<br />mucosal lesions, MDA and gastric acid secretion associated with significant increase<br />in gastric juice mucin secretion. Also, atorvastatin significantly increased gastric NO<br />and PGE2 levels. These data illustrate the gastroprotective effects of atorvastatin<br />which may be mediated by its anti-oxidant and anti-secretory<br />properties.Egyptian Society for Physiological SciencesBulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences1110-084229120090601Role of Phosphodiesterase Enzyme Modulation in Protection of Hepatotoxicity Induced by D-Galactosamine in Rats2292443634310.21608/besps.2009.36343ENMagdyHassanDepartment of Physiology;
Faculty of Pharmacy, Minia UniversityMohamedEl-MoselhyDepartment of Pharmacology & Toxicology
Faculty of Pharmacy, Minia UniversityAshrafAbu-ElwafaDepartment of Pharmacology & Toxicology
Faculty of Pharmacy, Minia UniversityHanaaIbrahimDepartment of Physiology;
Faculty of Pharmacy, Minia UniversityAliaaMohammedDepartment of Pharmacology & Toxicology
Faculty of Pharmacy, Minia UniversityJournal Article20090622The study was conducted to investigate possible mechanisms of the hepatoprotective<br />actions of Pentoxifylline (a non-selective phosphodiesterase inhibitor) against<br />experimentally induced hepatic injury in rats. The rats were randomly assigned to<br />vehicle (saline), pentoxifylline (PTX, 100 mg/Kg) and silymarin (SYM, 100mg/Kg)<br />and combination of the two in the same doses pretreated groups for three weeks, in<br />addition to the control group. Hepatic injury was induced by intraperitoneal single<br />dose injection of D-galactosamine (D-GAL, 800mg\kg). Hepatic functions parameters<br />(serum levels of albumin, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity were determined.<br />Antioxidants properties of pentoxyphylline were examined via measuring the<br />antioxidant enzymes activities such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT),<br />lipid peroxides as well as hepatic total nitrites. Histopathological findings were, also,<br />determined using portions of liver tissues. Results showed that the liver injury<br />induced by D-galactosamine treated rats was improved in the three pretreated groups<br />to variable extents. Pretreatment with PTX prevented D-galactosamine induced<br />reduction of antioxidative enzymes, SOD and CAT, and attenuated the elevated MDA<br />level in hepatic tissue which was observed in non pretreated D-Gal group. These<br />findings could be attributed to antioxidant activity of PTX and its metabolites effects.<br />It 'also' caused increase in hepatic triglycerides, normalization of nitric oxide level,<br />and lowering serum ALP activity and inhibited reduction of serum albumin level<br />caused by D-Gal, these effects reflect possible hepatoprotective effects of PTX.Egyptian Society for Physiological SciencesBulletin of Egyptian Society for Physiological Sciences1110-084229120090601The Relations between Cadmium, Zinc and Oxidative stress in Oligoasthenozoospermic Men2452583634410.21608/besps.2009.36344ENMarwaAhmedPhysiology Department ,
Faculty of Medicine, Assiut UniversityDaliaAbd El-AzizDermatology & Andrology Department,
Faculty of Medicine, Assiut UniversityJournal Article20090622Background: Cadmium (Cd) has been found to accumulate in male reproductive<br />organs and induce male reproductive toxicity in several animal species. Objective: To<br />study the levels of Cadmium and Zinc in blood and seminal plasma of<br />oligoathenozoospermic men and to investigate their possible role and their relation to<br />oxidative stress in pathophysiology of oligoathenozoospermia. Study Design: Blood<br />and seminal plasma were collected from thirty primary infertile males with<br />oligoasthenozoospermic, and 30 control subjects. Cadmium (Cd), zinc (Zn),<br />malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity were estimated in<br />all samples. Results: The serum and seminal concentrations of Cd and MDA of<br />oligpasthenozoospermic group were significantly higher than those of control groups.<br />Levels of blood and seminal plasma of Zn and SOD activity of infertile men were<br />significantly lower than those of control group. The seminal plasma levels of Cd of<br />oligoathenozoospermic group were correlated positively and significantly with MDA<br />levels in seminal plasma. However, there were significant negative correlations<br />between seminal plasma levels of Cd and seminal levels of Zn and seminal SOD<br />activity ,sperm count and sperm motility .There were inverse correlations between<br />seminal plasma levels of MDA and SOD activity, sperm count and sperm motility in<br />oligoathenozoospermic group. The results also shows that there was a positive and<br />significant correlation between the seminal SOD activity and sperm motility in<br />infertile men. Seminal plasma levels of Zinc were negatively and significantly<br />correlated with sperm motility of oligoathenozoospermic group. Conclusion:<br />Cadmium may have adverse impacts on semen quality and male reproductive health.<br />The pathophysiological mechanism of high Cadmium levels in oligoathenozoospermic<br />men is probably through induction of oxidative stress. Lowered levels of zinc may<br />contribute to infertility through its significant effects on semen motility. There is<br />competitive mechanism of interaction between Zn in relation to Cd in<br />oligoathenozoospermic men