Advancements in Life Sciences (E-Journal, University of the Punjab)
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Effect of Ruellia tuberosa L. Leaves Extract on SGOT and SGPT Levels and Liver Histopathology in Alloxan-Induced Diabetes White Rats (Rattus norvegicus)
Get PDFBackground: Diabetes mellitus poses significant health risks, including liver damage, often caused by side effects of drug therapy. Ruellia tuberosa L. leaves, known for its antioxidant and antidiabetic properties, offers a promising natural alternative. This study evaluates its hepatoprotective potential by assessing Serum Glutamic Oxaloacetic Transaminase (SGOT) and Serum Glutamic Pyruvic Transaminase (SGPT) levels, along with liver histopathology in alloxan-induced diabetes white rats.Methods: The research method used was a randomized posttest-only control group design. Alloxan was injected intraperitoneally with 150 mg/kg BW (single dose). Twenty-five male white rats were randomly divided into five groups: control group of diabetic white rats (K-), diabetic white rats given metformin (standard drug) dose of 50 mg/kg BW (K+), normal white rat control (P0), diabetic white rats given R. tuberosa leaves extract dose of 200 mg/kg BW (P1), and 400 mg/kg BW (P2). After 14 days, blood samples were analyzed for SGOT and SGPT levels, and liver tissues were examined histologically.Results: The analysis showed that the administration of R. tuberosa leaves extract doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg BW in diabetic rats for 14 days had an improvement effect on SGOT, SGPT levels and histopathological images of liver organs.Conclusion: R. tuberosa leaves extract, especially at the 400 mg/kg BW dose, can effectively lower SGOT and SGPT levels, also improving liver histopathology in diabetic rats. These findings suggest its potential as a complementary therapeutic option for liver complications in diabetic cases.Keywords: Alloxan, Diabetes, Liver histopathology, SGOT, SGPT, Ruellia tuberosa L
Efficacy of autogenic, allogenic and heterogenic platelet rich plasma (PRP) on Avulsion skin wounds in rabbit model
Get PDFBackground: Wound healing through second intention was prone to issues. As a result, there is a strong need in veterinary medicine for therapies that hasten the healing of secondary wounds. These studies demonstrate the effect of autogenic, allogenic, and heterogenic PRP on healing of wounds.Methods: Six rabbits weighing (1.8-2.5 kg), blood samples were collected from the rabbits and goats. Skin markings of 1cm in diameter were made on dorsal midlines. These wounds were allocated into four groups, control, autogenic, allogenic, and heterogenic PRP treated groups. Planimetric monitoring to determine the diameter (mm) and histologically were performed at 3,7,15, and 21 days after injury.Results: Clinically, on day fifteen there were improvements in wound contraction in the Auto and Allo PRP groups, better than control. There was slight improvement in the Hetero PRP group. After 21 days of wounding, the Auto and AlloPRP group’s wounds were fully healed. Histologically, after 1 week, the AutoPRP and AlloPRP groups revealed scab formation. However, in the XenoPRP and control groups the a thick scab covered the incision line. After 2nd week of post wounding, the two treated groups were nearly similar compared with the XenoPRP and control group including scab detachment. At the end of the 3rd week, The NS group revealed partially detached scab formation. While all treated showed a complete regeneration of the epidermis layer, new hair follicles beneath the regenerated epidermis.Conclusion: For the promotion of wound repair processes, Autogenic and Allogenic PRP therapy may represent a straightforward, affordable, and successful option.Keywords: Platelet rich plasma; Rabbit; Skin; Wound Editorial Expression of Concern:18 May 2025: Following publication of this paper, the internal audit (consequent to concerns on quality raised by Web of Science) notified Advancements in Life Sciences about problems in use of English language. By this Editorial Expression of Concern, we alert the scientific community as we address the errors.Editorial Note:31 May 2025: You are viewing the latest version of this article having minor corrections related to the use of English language. Expression of concern is hereby revoked
Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells: a potential therapy in an autoimmune hepatitis rat model
Get PDFBackground: Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is becoming more common worldwide. The therapy choices for AIH are still limited, with unfavorable side effects resulting in patients with a low quality of life. This study aims to study the therapeutic role of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) on AIH in the rat model.Methods: Twenty-nine white Wistar rats were used for a total of 53 days. Four groups were set up; Group I (5 rats) was used as the negative control (CON). Group II (24 rats) was administered Concanavalin A (Con A) 20 mg/kg ip once a week for five consecutive weeks. Sixteen rats from group II were divided among groups III and IV after stoppage of Con A and injected with 2 x106 BM-MSCs via tail vein. Group III (TTT-12) rats were sacrificed after 12 days and Group IV (TTT-18) after 18 days. Morphological, biochemical, histopathological, and immunohistochemical studies were conducted.Results: The administration of BM-MSCs lowered elevated serum levels of AST by 47% after 12 days and 19% after 18 days whereas the level of ALT decreased by 13% and 20.8%in group Con A. Serum inflammatory cytokines IL-10 and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) increased in the Con A group were decreased in treated groups by 27% and 23% in TTT-12 and 22.8% and 1.8% in TTT-18. In group TTT-12, the area of Kupffer cells immunostained with CD68 was significantly reduced by 72%, whereas the BM-MSCs immunostained with CD44 were more intense by increasing by 257%. The therapeutic effect of BM-MSCs in group TTT-12 exceeded that in TTT-18 decreasing liver enzymes, inflammation and fibrosis, and restoring liver structure.Conclusions: BM-MSCs achieved a considerable short-term improvement in the AIH model; however, repeated injections were necessary to achieve a sustained therapeutic effect.Keywords: Liver; Autoimmunity; MSCs; Inflammatory cytokines; CD68; CD44; Histopathology Editorial Expression of Concern:20 May 2025: Following publication of this paper, the internal audit (consequent to concerns on quality raised by Web of Science) notified Advancements in Life Sciences about quality of figures. By this Editorial Expression of Concern, we alert the scientific community of the errors as we refurnish figures with higher DPI.Editorial Note:28 May 2025: Readers may please see figures with higher DPI given at the end of Results section in the HTML version. Expression of concern is hereby revoked
Potential application of the D-amino acid oxidase (DAAO) inhibitor sodium benzoate for individuals experiencing psychological stress after traumatic events
Get PDFPreventing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which is harmful in terms of human resources and burdens society, is an urgent issue. The glutamatergic system, a newly-identified target site of recent pharmacological interventions for various mental disorders, could be a potential pathway. A recent study confirmed that sodium benzoate, which is a D-amino acid oxidase (DAAO) inhibitor that is used as a safe food additive, is therapeutically effective for certain mental disorders. Studies also indicated a medium effect size on the perceived stress and 28%-61% reduction of panic symptoms. Hereby, we propose a novel clinically oriented medical idea: “proper use of sodium benzoate in the preparation of rations for individuals with mental disorders who will be or are currently exposed to stressors could be a feasible method for preventing PTSD and other associated mental disorders”. While this idea remains to be tested, its application could be helpful for rescue workers or victims of disaster.Keywords: Amino Acid Oxidase (DAAO) Inhibitor; Glutamate; Immune Response; Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD); Ration; Sodium Benzoat
Curcumin targets Enterococcus faecalis virulence by inhibiting the enterococcal surface protein, offering a potential treatment for endodontic diseases
Get PDFBackground: The present study explores the inhibitory effect of curcumin on the Enterococcal Surface Protein (ESP) of Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis), a key pathogen in endodontic and post-endodontic diseases.Methods: The 3D structure of ESP was modeled using SWISS-MODEL, and structural cavities were identified via CB-Dock2. Molecular docking was performed with DockingServer. ADMET properties were predicted using pkCSM, while curcumin’s biological activity and potential macromolecular targets were assessed using PASS Online and SwissTargetPrediction, respectively. Cytotoxicity of curcumin on HEK293 cells was evaluated by MTT assay.Results: Curcumin demonstrated good binding affinity (-11.06 kcal/mol) with ESP, supported by HBPlot analysis and SeamDock validation (-10.5 kcal/mol). Curcumin's deep binding within ESP's cavity suggests its potential to disrupt E. faecalis colonization and biofilm formation, offering a novel therapeutic strategy. ADMET predictions revealed favourable pharmacokinetic properties, including high intestinal absorption (82.19%) and no hepatotoxicity, positioning curcumin as a safe and effective candidate. PASS analysis highlighted curcumin's diverse biological activities, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and enzyme inhibitory effects, aligning with its therapeutic potential. SwissTargetPrediction further identified potential protein targets, including transcription factors and kinases, broadening its applicability. Concentration- and time-dependent assays confirmed curcumin's non-toxic nature toward normal HEK293 cells, highlighting its safety profile.Conclusion: In conclusion, these findings collectively demonstrate curcumin's potential as a therapeutic agent for endodontic diseases, leveraging its ability to target E. faecalis virulence while addressing inflammation and oxidative stress. Keywords: Biofilm formation; Curcumin; Enterococcus faecalis; Endodontic diseases; Molecular docking; Post-endodontic disease
Relationship between Serum Vitamin D Deficiency and Hormonal Imbalance in Obese Female Patients with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
Get PDFBackground: Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine condition. It is characterized by hyperandrogenism and irregular ovulation. Obesity is often linked to PCOS. This study aimed to compare serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) levels between Saudi women with and without PCOS, considering factors such as BMI, Vitamin D binding protein (DBP) level, lipid profile, and hormones levels. Additionally, we explored the potential relationship between vitamin D deficiency and these parameters.Methods: This study involved 120 female Saudi participants (aged 18-45 years) divided into two groups: control and obese patients with PCOS. Serum concentrations of both 25OHD and DBP were determined by the sandwich ELISA method. Serum lipid profiles and hormones were measured, BMI was estimated, and insulin resistance was evaluated by measuring serum insulin concentrations alongside the Homeostasis Model Assessment.Results: In PCOS obese patients, there were significant increases " p<0.001" in BMI, TC, TG, LDL-C, testosterone, prolactin, and Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) levels, and significant decreases " p<0.001" in 25OHD, DBP, HDL-C, and Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) in comparison to controls. Significant positive associations were found between vitamin D and DBP, HDL-C, and SHBG, and negative correlations with BMI, TC, TG, LDL-C, testosterone, prolactin, and DHEA-S in all patients group. No significant correlations between vitamin D and each of Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), Luteinizing hormone (LH), Estradiol (E2), progesterone.Conclusions: Our study shows a significant correlation between vitamin D, DBP, and hormonal dysfunction in PCOS. Fluctuations in hormone levels are linked to reduced vitamin D levels in obese PCOS patients.Keywords: Vitamin D; Polycystic Ovary Syndrome; Obesity; Vitamin D-Binding Protein; Hormonal Dysfunctio
Detection of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Staphylococcus aureus isolated from raw milk in a dairy farm
Get PDFBackground: The presence of microorganisms in milk cannot be totally prevented, making it a crucial factor in determining its quality. Staphylococcus aureus is one of the germs that can be detected in milk and other dairy products. Many S. aureus related foodborne disease outbreaks have been reported to be caused by multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains.Methods: In the Indonesian province of East Java, a total of 112 raw milk samples were taken from various dairy farms. 10 ml of milk was collected from each cow using a sterile bottle. The Milk samples were transported to the laboratory under a cold chain and analyzed using standard microbiological procedures. Evaluation of S. aureus isolates for antibiotic susceptibility using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method.Results: Findings from this study showed that 100 (89.2%) out of 112 samples of raw milk taken from dairy farms in 2 regions located in Pasuruan and Lumajang yielded positive for S. aureus. The antibiotic sensitivity profile showed that Cefoxitin was the most effective with 2% resistance. The highest resistance recorded was against Ampicillin (78%). Resistance recorded against other antibiotics include Tetracycline (36%), Erythromycin (11%), and Amoxicillin (12%). Multidrug resistance was recorded for S. aureus isolates from 10 samples of raw milk.Conclusion: The study's conclusions highlight the risk of milk contamination and the potential for S. aureus to develop multidrug resistance, both of which are harmful to human health. It is strongly recommended that strict hygiene practices be maintained and improved in dairy farms.Keywords: Staphylococcus aureus; Multidrug resistance; Raw milk; Human health; IndonesiaEditorial Expression of Concern:19 May 2025: Following publication of this paper, the internal audit (consequent to concerns on quality raised by Web of Science) notified Advancements in Life Sciences about problems with authors’ analyses. By this Editorial Expression of Concern, we alert the scientific community of the errors as we examine the concerns and address errors in analyses.Editorial Note:29 May 2025: Authors are expected to categorically respond to the communicated shortcomings in the statistical analyses by 05 June 2025.Rescinded: Editorial Expression of Concern:23 July 2025: Editorial expression of concern issued on 19 May 2025 is hereby rescinded on account of authors' following correction of the found technical shortcoming in light of COPE guidelines. The corresponding author's note reads as "I have used the chi-square test to compare the Resistance rate of each antibiotic between Pasuruan and Lumajang…It is good to mention here that I have already revised the table as well, and it has become 2 tables.
Thymoquinone Protection Against Oxidative Stress Caused by Cisplatin Through Increased Superoxide Dismutase Expression in the Cochlea of Wistar Rats
Get PDFBackground: Cisplatin (Cis) is the primary and most effective chemotherapy drug for treating head and neck cancer. The side effect of cisplatin therapy is toxicity in the cochlea. The most active chemical in Nigella sativa (habbatussauda) is thymoquinone (TQ). The protective effects of thymoquinone antioxidants against oxidative stress caused by cisplatin in the cochlea of Wistar rats are not yet fully understood. This study aimed to determine whether thymoquinone antioxidants may protect Wistar rat cochlea from oxidative damage caused by cisplatin.Methods: We divided 24 healthy male rats into four groups for this experimental animal study (Rattus norvegicus). The researchers named the group that received cisplatin alone the Cis group. The group given cisplatin and thymoquinone at 25 mg/kg/day was designated the Cis+TQ25 group. The group given cisplatin and thymoquinone at 50 mg/kg/day was designated the Cis+TQ50 group. the group that received no treatment was designated as the control group. On day 10, SOD expression was tested the expression of superoxide dismutase (SOD) in rat cochlear tissue using an immunohistochemistry examination.Results: The Cis group significantly decreased the expression of SOD in cochlear tissue (26.64±5.02) compared to the control group (64.18±5.93) with a p = 0.000. The Cis+TQ25 group (51.95±2.98) and the Cis+TQ50 group (56.19±5.43) significantly increase SOD expression in cochlear tissue compared to the Cis group (26.64±5.02) with a p = 0.009 and a p = 0.002.Conclusion: Thymoquinone decreases oxidative stress caused by cisplatin by upregulating SOD expression in Wistar rat cochlea.Keywords: Antioxidants; Cisplatin; Cochlea; Oxidative stress; Rats; Thymoquinone Editorial Expression of Concern:18 May 2025: Following publication of this paper, the internal audit (consequent to concerns on quality raised by Web of Science) notified Advancements in Life Sciences about problems in use of English language. By this Editorial Expression of Concern, we alert the scientific community as we address the errors.Editorial Note:31 May 2025: You are viewing the latest version of this article having minor corrections related to the use of English language and in references section. Expression of concern is hereby revoked
Virtual Screening of Compounds for the Identification of Potential Drug Candidates Targeting the RACK1 Receptor in Liver Cancer
Get PDFBackground: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally and the sixth most common cancer, particularly in the Asia-Pacific and African regions. Liver cirrhosis, a critical precursor to HCC and liver failure, necessitates effective treatment options. Although surgical intervention is the current standard, there is a pressing need for novel therapeutics with improved efficacy and reduced side effects. This study focuses on RACK1 (Receptor for Activated C-Kinase 1), a pivotal protein in cancer progression, as a therapeutic target for HCC.Methods: Protein structures of overexpressed genes in HCC, including RACK1, were retrieved from the Protein Data Bank (PDB). Active binding sites on RACK1 were identified for potential ligand interactions. A library of 12,000 phytochemicals was sourced from PubChem, ZINC, and MP3D databases and screened against RACK1 using the PyRx virtual screening tool. The top candidates were analyzed for pharmacokinetic properties using ADMETsar. Molecular dynamics simulations were conducted to study ligand-receptor interactions and validate the potential drug candidates.Results: The study identified promising phytochemical compounds (Pubchem11059920, Pubchem118855584, Pubchem3086637, Pubchem442813 and Pubchem88708) capable of binding to RACK1 with high affinity. These compounds exhibited favorable ADMET properties, indicating their potential as drug candidates. Molecular dynamics simulations confirmed stable and significant interactions between the identified ligands and RACK1, supporting their inhibitory potential.Conclusion: This research highlights RACK1 as a viable therapeutic target for HCC. The identified drug candidates demonstrate potential to inhibit RACK1 function, offering a pathway to suppress HCC progression at its early stages. These findings provide a foundation for the development of effective and targeted treatments for HCC.Keywords: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), RACK1 receptor, Phytochemical screening, Virtual screening, Molecular dynamics simulation
Comparative safety and efficacy of Rituximab biosimilar (Truxima) and the reference rituximab product (MabThera) in the treatment of different types of adult glomerulonephritis
Get PDFBackground: The most important advancement in the treatment of glomerulonephritis is the application of rituximab (MabThera®), for several decades. Rituximab biosimilar (Truxima®) was approved for the same indications offering significant cost savings. This study aimed to compare the safety and efficacy of rituximab biosimilar (Truxima) with the reference rituximab product (MabThera) in the treatment of glomerulonephritis, using both laboratory and clinical parameters to assess their similarity.Methods: We examined the clinical results retrospectively and collected the data of the laboratory parameters from 65 patients suffering from glomerulonephritis treated with either Truxima or MabThera, for disease induction and maintenance of remission, at the King Abdulaziz Medical Centre, Al-Riyadh between 2019 and 2023.Result: The present study shows no significant difference in rates of remission and relapse between patients receiving Truxima or MabThera treatment. There were no significant differences in the patients’ complete renal recovery at 6 months between the two groups, P = .692. Additionally, no remarkable differences between both medications in the patients' time to relapse. A comparison of mean clinical data for serum creatinine, cholesterol and blood indices at baseline, 6 months and 12 months of the patients in Truxima® and MabThera® groups revealed that patients who received MabThera® had a significantly higher WBC count at 6th month, P = .030 only.Conclusion: The current study shows that (Truxima) is just as safe and effective as its original product, (MabThera). Therefore, Truxima is a more affordable and safer alternative that potentially increases rituximab accessibility to patients.Keywords: Truxima; Mabthera; Glomerulonephritis; Efficacy; Safet