Abstract Ulcerative colitis (UC) affects the mucosa and submucosa of the large intestine. One of the mechanisms involved in its etiology is oxidative stress (OS), directly involved in the inflammatory process characteristic of UC. The Campsiandra laurifolia, known as acapurana, was described as possessing antioxidant properties. We used 24 male Wistar rats, divided into control (CO), control + acapurana (CO + A), colitis (CL), and colitis + acapurana (CL + A) groups. This study performed histological analysis, measuring anal sphincter pressure (ASP) and lipoperoxidation (LPO). The activity of the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione (GSH) levels were evaluated. The expression of the nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) was analyzed by immunohistochemistry. The statistical analysis used was the one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), followed by the Student-Newman-Keuls test; values were expressed as mean ± standard error, and the significance level was p < 0.05. In the animals of the CL group, we observed the destruction of the crypts and the presence of mucosal ulcers, edema, and submucosal inflammatory infiltrate, as well as increased damage to the intestinal mucosa, reduced ASP, increased LPO and SOD activity, reduced GSH levels, and increased expression of NFκB and iNOS. The administration of C. laurifolia in the CL + A group was shown to cause regeneration of crypts, reduction of inflammatory infiltrate, reduction of damage to the intestinal mucosa, increase in ASP, and reduction in LPO with the restoration of SOD activity and GSH levels. The immunohistochemistry of NFκB and iNOS was significantly reduced. Therefore, the C. laurifolia aqueous extract appears to exert an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect in rats with AA-induced colitis.

Resumo Devido ao uso etnofarmacológico de Campsiandra laurifolia (Fabaceae), popularmente conhecida comoAcapurana, para tratar feridas e úlceras, associado à falta dealternativas de tratamentos para as inflamações intestinais como a retocolite ulcerativa (RCU), o presente trabalho buscou caracterizar sua constituição fitoquímica, sua atividade antioxidante, e avaliar sua ação reparadora na colite experimental com ácido acético. As análises fitoquímicas foram realizadas por meio de ensaios colorimétricos qualitativos e quantitativos dos principaismetabólitos secundários.Nomodelo de colite, foramutilizados 24 ratos machos Wistar de±60 dias de idade, divididos em 4 grupos: Controle (CO), controle+ extrato aquoso de C. laurifolia 50mg/kg (CO+A50); Colite (CL); e Colite+extrato aquoso de C. laurifolia (CL+ A50). Foram realizadas aferições da pressão anal esfincteriana e avaliações histológicas do intestino grosso, lipoperoxidação (LPO), atividade da enzima superóxido dismutase (SOD) e níveis da glutationa (GSH). Para a análise estatística, resultados do estresse oxidativo (EO) foram expressos em médias±erro padrão, adotando um nível de significância de p<0,05. O screening indicou no extrato a presença de flavonoides, saponinas e taninos com altos teores de compostos fenólicos e taninos, relacionando-os a uma elevada capacidade antioxidante. Na análise histológica, o grupo CL apresentou perda das criptas, do edema e do infiltrado inflamatório. O uso do extrato de C. laurifolia reestruturou as criptas, diminuiu o edema e aumentou a pressão anal esfincteriana, com diminuição da LPO, da SOD, e aumento da GSH. Sugere-se que o uso do extrato de C. laurifolia diminui o EO por seu poder antioxidante, conferido pelos compostos fenólicos presentes no extrato.

Abstract Due to the ethnopharmacological use of Campsiandra laurifolia (Fabaceae), popularly known as Acapurana, to treat wounds and ulcers, associated with the lack of alternative treatments for intestinal inflammations such as ulcerative colitis (UC), the present work sought to characterize its phytochemical and antioxidant activities, and to evaluate remedial action in experimental colitis with acetic acid. Phytochemical analyzes were performed through qualitative and quantitative colorimetric tests of the main secondary metabolites. In the colitismodel, 24male Wistar rats aged±60 days oldwere used, divided into 4 groups: Control (CO) control+aqueous extract of C. laurifolia 50mg/kg (CO+A50); Colitis (CL); and Colitis+aqueous extract of C. laurifolia 50 mg/kg (CL+ A50).Measurement of sphincter anal pressure and histological tests of the large intestine, lipoperoxidation (LPO), enzymeactivity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), and levels of glutathione (GSH)were performed. For statistical analysis, the oxidative stress (OS) results were expressed as means±standard error, adopting a significance level of p<0.05. The screening indicated the presence of flavonoids, saponins and tannins in the extract, with high levels of phenolic

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar as alterações pulmonares de animais com Síndrome Hepatopulmonar (SHP), submetidos à ligadura de ducto biliar (LDB), bem como o efeito antioxidante da Melatonina (MEL). Métodos: Dezesseis ratos machos da espécie Wistar, divididos em quatro grupos: Sham, Grupo LDB, Grupo Sham + MEL e LDB + MEL. Foram avaliadas a histologia pulmonar e hepática, a lipoperoxidação e atividade antioxidante do tecido pulmonar, diferença álveolo-arterial de O2 e relação peso pulmonar/peso corporal (%). Resultados: Quando comparados os grupos, observamos um aumento da vasodilatação e fibrose pulmonar no grupo LDB e a redução deste em relação ao grupo LDB+MEL. Observamos ainda alterações significativas na atividade da catalase, PaCO2, PaO2 no grupo LBD quando comparado aos demais grupos. Conclusões: A utilização da MEL demonstrou-se eficaz na redução da vasodilatação, níveis de fibrose e estresse oxidativo assim como na troca gasosa em modelo experimental de SHP.

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the pulmonary alterations of animals with Hepatopulmonary Syndrome (HPS) submitted to Biliary Duct Ligature (BDL), as well as the antioxidant effect of Melatonin (MEL). Methods: Sixteen male Wistar rats, divided into four Sham groups: BDL group, Sham + MEL group and BDL + MEL. The pulmonary and hepatic histology, lipoperoxidation and antioxidant activity of lung tissue, alveolar-arterial O2 difference and lung / body weight ratio (%) were evaluated. Results: When comparing the groups, could be observed an increase of vasodilation and pulmonary fibrosis in the BDL group and the reduction of this in relation to the BDL + MEL group. It was also observed significant changes in the activity of catalase, ApCO2, ApO2 in the LBD group when compared to the other groups. Conclusion: The use of MEL has been shown to be effective in reducing vasodilation, fibrosis levels and oxidative stress as well as gas exchange in an experimental HPS model.

Abstract Purpose: To evaluate whether combining hypothermia and remote ischemic preconditioning (RIPC) results in protection from ischemia-reperfusion (IR). Methods: Thirty-two Wistar rats underwent right nephrectomy and were randomly assigned to four experimental protocols on the left kidney: warm ischemia (group 1), cold ischemia (group 2), RIPC followed by warm ischemia (group 3), and RIPC followed by cold ischemia (group 4). After 240 minutes of reperfusion, histological changes in the left kidney, as well as lipid peroxidation and antioxidant enzyme activity, were analyzed. The right kidney was used as the control. Serum creatinine was collected before and after the procedures. Results: RIPC combined with hypothermia during IR experiments revealed no differences on interventional groups regarding histological changes (p=0.722). Oxidative stress showed no significant variations among the groups. Lower serum creatinine at the end of the procedure was seen in animals exposed to hypothermia (p<0.001). Conclusions: Combination of RIPC and local hypothermia provides no renal protection in IR injury. Hypothermia preserves renal function during ischemic events. Furthermore, RIPC followed by warm IR did not show benefits compared to warm IR alone or controls in our experimental protocol.

Abstract Purpose: Topical hypothermia and local ischemic preconditioning have been shown to reduce renal ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury individually. We examined whether combination of both strategies lessens renal I/R injury. Methods: Post right nephrectomy, 40 male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to five experimental protocols performed in the left kidney: topical hypothermia without ischemia (TH), warm ischemia (IR), ischemic preconditioning followed by warm ischemia (IPC+IR), cold ischemia (TH+IR), and ischemic preconditioning followed by cold ischemia (IPC+TH+IR). Eight randomly assigned right kidneys constituted the control group. After 240 min of reperfusion, the left kidney was retrieved to evaluate histological changes, lipid peroxidation and antioxidant enzymes activity. Serum was collected to evaluate urea and creatinine. Results: IPC+TH+IR group revealed no difference to any other group subjected to ischemia in relation to histological changes, lipid peroxidation and antioxidant enzymes activity. Creatinine was lower in IPC+TH+IR group compared with IPC+IR, but showed no difference compared to TH+IR group. Conclusions: Combination of local ischemic preconditioning (IPC) and topical hypothermia conferred no protection in renal I/R injury. Moreover, local IPC solely followed by warm ischemia impaired renal function more than warm ischemia alone.

RESUMO Introdução: A cirrose gera alterações nas trocas gasosas e a desnutrição proteico-calórica em pacientes hepatopatas. Objetivo: Avaliar e comparar as variáveis cardiopulmonares, a força do aperto de mão (FAM) e a composição corporal entre pacientes cirróticos pelo vírus da hepatite C e indivíduos saudáveis, e correlacionar o consumo máximo de oxigênio (VO2MAX) com a FAM. Métodos: Esta pesquisa caracteriza-se como estudo de caso-controle composto por 36 participantes (18 pacientes cirróticos com HCV e 18 indivíduos hígidos) de ambos os sexos, maiores de 18 anos. A força de preensão palmar foi mensurada por dinamometria com dinamômetro mecânico de empunhadura com alça ajustável. As variáveis ventilatórias foram avaliadas por ergoespirometria com teste de carga progressiva em cicloergômetro. A composição corporal foi mensurada por um técnico em cineantropometria nível II. Foram utilizados os testes t independente e Mann-Whitney para comparação entre os grupos e a correlação de Spearman para associação entre as variáveis. Resultados: Foram encontradas diferenças no consumo máximo de oxigênio 16,20 (11,60-18,55), mediana e intervalo interquartil x 19,90 (16,27-26,85), ventilação 45,40 (36,45-54,20) x 63,40 (50,40-78,00), produção de dióxido de carbono 785,88 (655,81-963,14) x 988,04 (826,93-1546,21), frequência cardíaca máxima (127,66 ± 23,26 média e ± DP) x (146,29 ± 23,31), primeiro limiar ventilatório (10,700 ± 3,19) x (14,912 ± 4,45) e segundo limiar ventilatório (14,16 ± 4,48) x (18,25 ± 5,54) entre cirróticos e controles, respectivamente. Encontramos correlação positiva moderada entre o consumo máximo de oxigênio e a força do aperto de mão (r = 0,474, p = 0,047). Conclusão: Existem alterações nas variáveis cardiopulmonares e há associação entre o VO2MAX e a FAM em pacientes cirróticos pelo vírus da hepatite C.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Cirrhosis causes changes in gas exchange and protein-calorie malnutrition in patients with liver disease. Objective: To evaluate and compare cardiopulmonary variables, handgrip strength (HGS) and body composition between cirrhotic patients with hepatitis C virus and healthy individuals, and to correlate maximal oxygen uptake (VO2MAX) with HGS. Methods: This survey is characterized as a case-control study composed of 36 participants (18 cirrhotic patients with HCV and 18 healthy individuals) of both sexes, older than 18 years. The palmar grip strength was measured by dynamometry using a mechanical handle dynamometer with adjustable handle. The ventilatory variables were evaluated by ergospirometry with a progressive load test on a cycloergometer. The body composition was measured by a level II cineanthropometry technician. Independent t test and Mann-Whitney test were used for comparison between groups and Spearman correlation for association between variables. Results: There were differences in maximal oxygen uptake 16.20 (11.60-18.55), median and interquartile range x 19.90 (16.27-26.85), ventilation 45.40 (36.45-54.20) x 63.40 (50.40-78.00), carbon dioxide production 785.88 (655.81-963.14) x 988.04 (826.93-1546.21), maximum heart rate (127.66 ± 23.26, mean and ± SD) x (146.29 ± 23.31), first ventilatory threshold (10.700 ± 3.19) x (14.912 ± 4.45) and second ventilatory threshold (14.16 ± 4.48) x (18.25 ± 5.54) between cirrhotic patients and controls, respectively. We found a moderate positive correlation between maximal oxygen uptake and handgrip strength (r=0.474, p=0.047) Conclusion: There are changes in cardiopulmonary variables and there is an association between VO2MAX and HGS in cirrhotic patients with hepatitis C virus.

RESUMEN Introducción: La cirrosis genera cambios en los intercambios gaseosos y la desnutrición proteico-calórica en pacientes con enfermedad hepática. Objetivo: Evaluar y comparar las variables cardiopulmonares, la fuerza de prensión manual (FPM) y la composición corporal entre pacientes cirróticos por el virus de la hepatitis C y sujetos sanos, y correlacionar el consumo máximo de oxígeno (VO2MAX) con la FPM. Métodos: Esta investigación se caracteriza como estudio caso-control compuesto por 36 participantes (18 pacientes cirróticos con VHC y 18 individuos sanos) de ambos sexos, mayores de 18 años. La fuerza de agarre palmar se midió mediante dinamometría con dinamómetro mecánico con mango ajustable. Las variables ventilatorias se evaluaron mediante ergoespirometría con prueba de carga progresiva en un cicloergómetro. La composición corporal fue medida por un técnico en cineantropometría de nivel II. Se utilizaron las pruebas t independiente y Mann-Whitney para la comparación entre los grupos y la correlación de Spearman para la asociación entre las variables. Resultados: Se encontraron diferencias en el consumo máximo de oxígeno 16,20 (11,60-18,55), mediana y rango intercuartílico x 19,90 (16,27-26,85), ventilación 45,40 (36,45- 54,20) x 63,40 (50,40-78,00), producción de dióxido de carbono 785,88 (655,81-963,14) x 988,04 (826,93-1546,21), frecuencia cardiaca máxima (127,66 ± 23,26, media y ± DE) x (146,29 ± 23,31), primer umbral ventilatorio (10,700 ± 3,19) x (14,912 ± 4,45) y segundo umbral ventilatorio (14,16 ± 4,48) x (18,25 ± 5,54) entre los cirróticos y controles, respectivamente. Encontramos una correlación positiva moderada entre el consumo máximo de oxígeno y la fuerza de prensión manual (r = 0,474, p = 0,047). Conclusión: Existen cambios en las variables cardiopulmonares y hay asociación entre el VO2MAX y FPM en pacientes cirróticos por el virus de la hepatitis C.

Abstract Introduction: Intestinal ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury may cause cell and tissue damage, reaching also other organs such as the liver. Because of the involvement of free radicals in I/R injury, treatment options with antioxidants have been studied and tested. Objective: To evaluate the effect of glutamine (Gln) in the liver of animals with intestinal I/R injury. Methods: We used 20 male Wistar rats divided into four groups: sham-operated (SO); glutamine + sham-operated (G+SO); intestinal ischemia-reperfusion (I/R); glutamine + intestinal ischemia-reperfusion (G+I/R). The superior mesenteric artery was clamped for 30 minutes and reperfused for 15 minutes. Gln (25 mg/kg/day) diluted in 1 ml of saline was administered intraperitoneally on the two days before I/R induction. Results: Levels of serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP), lipid peroxidation (LPO) and expressions of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB) showed a significant reduction in the G+I/R group as compared with the I/R group. The activity of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and the levels of glutathione (GSH) showed an increase in the G+I/R group as compared with the I/R group. Conclusion: Pretreatment with Gln reduced oxidative, tissue damage and showed a decrease expression of inflammatory mediators.

Resumen Introducción: las lesiones por isquemia-reperfusión (I/R) intestinales pueden causar daño celular y tisular, llegando incluso a otros órganos, como el hígado. Debido a la participación de radicales libres en la lesión I/R, se han estudiado y probado opciones de tratamiento con antioxidantes. Objetivo: evaluar el efecto de la glutamina (Gln) en el hígado de los animales con lesión intestinal I/R. Métodos: se utilizaron 20 ratas Wistar macho divididas en cuatro grupos: sham-operadas (SO); glutamina + sham-operadas (G+SO); isquemia-reperfusión intestinal (I/R); glutamina + isquemia-reperfusión intestinal (G+I/R). La arteria mesentérica superior se clampó durante 30 minutos y se llevó a cabo la reperfusión durante 15 minutos. Se adminsitró Gln (25 mg/kg/día) diluida en 1 ml de solución salina por vía intraperitoneal en los dos días previos a la inducción de la I/R. Resultados: los niveles de aspartato aminotransferasa (AST), alanina aminotransferasa (ALT) y fosfatasa alcalina (FA), la peroxidación lipídica (POL) y las expresiones de interleucina-6 (IL-6) y factor nuclear kappa B (NF-kB) mostraron una reducción significativa en el grupo G+I/R en comparación con el grupo I/R. La actividad de la catalasa (CAT), la superóxido dismutasa (SOD), glutatión peroxidasa (GPx), y los niveles de glutatión (GSH) mostraron un aumento en el grupo G+I/R en comparación con el grupo I/R. Conclusión: el tratamiento previo con Gln redujo el daño tisular oxidativo y mostró una disminución de los mediadores inflamatorios.

RESUMO CONTEXTO A Insuficiência Hepática Aguda Grave (IHAG) é uma síndrome clínica potencialmente fatal, na qual ocorre necrose dos hepatócitos, perda da arquitetura hepática e deterioração de suas funções. Dentre as principais causas da IHAG está a hepatotoxicidade decorrente de agentes químicos, que lesam os hepatócitos e acarretam aumento das espécies reativas de oxigênio. A vitamina E tem alta atividade antioxidante biológica e é amplamente distribuída nos tecidos. OBJETIVO Avaliar o efeito antioxidante da Vitamina E no modelo de IHAG. MÉTODOS Foram utilizados 56 ratos, com peso médio de 300 g, divididos em oito grupos, quatro grupos avaliados em 24 horas e quatro em 48 horas após a indução: grupo controle (CO); Vitamina E (Vit.E); Tioacetamida (TAA) e Tioacetamida + Vitamina E (TAA+Vit.E). Os ratos foram submetidos a injeções de tioacetamida, na dose de 400 mg/Kg de peso i.p., no início do experimento e, posteriormente, após 8 horas. A vit E (100 mg//Kg i.p.) foi administrada 30 minutos após a segunda dose de tioacetamida. Os animais do tempo 48 horas receberam mais duas doses de vit. E (24h e 36h). Transcorridas 24 ou 48 horas após a administração da primeira dose de TAA, os animais foram pesados, anestesiados e o sangue retirado para a avaliação da integridade hepática através das enzimas Aspartatoaminotransferase (AST) e Alanina aminotransferase (ALT). O tecido hepático foi retirado para avaliação da lipoperoxidação através da técnica de TBARS, atividade das enzimas antioxidantes SOD, CAT, GPx, e GST, avaliação de NO 2 /NO 3 e avaliação histológica pela coloração de hematoxilina e eosina nos dois tempos. Os resultados foram expressos como média ± erro padrão e a análise estatística utilizada foi ANOVA, seguido de teste de Student-Newman-Keuls, considerado significativo P <0,05. RESULTADOS Após o tratamento com a vit. E, observamos uma redução nas enzimas de integridade hepática AST (U/L) (101,32±19,45 em 24h e 97,85±29,65 em 48h) relacionado ao grupo TAA (469,56±20,69 em 24h e 598,23±55,45 em 48h) e ALT (U/L) (76,59±8,56 em 24h e 68,47±6,49 em 48h) comparado ao grupo TAA (312,21±10,23 em 24h e 359,15±17,58 em 48h). Houve uma redução da LPO (nmol/mg Prot), no grupo TAA+Vit.E (0,77±0,07 em 24h e 0,95±0,08 em 48h) comparado ao grupo TAA (1,50±0,07 em 24h e 1,65±0,16 em 48h). A SOD (USOD/min/mg Prot) diminuiu no grupo TAA+Vit.E (49,48±9,47 em 24h e 62,45±18,47 em 48h) relacionado ao grupo TAA (98,46±15,48 em 24h e 154,13±21,46 em 48h), assim como a GST (nmol/min/mg Prot) no grupo TAA+Vit.E (350,57±36,93 em 24h e 453,29±13,84 em 48h) comparado ao grupo TAA (561,57±64,56 em 24h e 673,43±38,13 em 48h). Houve aumento da CAT (pmol/min/mg Prot) no grupo TAA+Vit.E (3,40±0,44 em 24h e 3,01±0,35 em 48h) em relação ao grupo TAA (1,65±0,21 em 24h e 1,86±0,42 em 48h). A GPx (nmol/min/mg Prot) aumentou em 24h no grupo TAA+Vit.E (1,01±0,16) comparado ao grupo TAA (0,41±0,04) e diminuiu em 48h (1,19±0,17) em relação ao grupo TAA (1,76±0,21). Verificou-se redução nos níveis de NO 2 /NO 3 (mmol/L) no grupo TAA+Vit.E (31,47±4,26 em 24h e 38,93±5,20 em 48h) em relação ao grupo TAA (49,37±5,12 em 24h e 53,53±5,97 em 48h). A avaliação histopatológica mostrou diminuição da lesão hepática (necrose e inflamação) em ambas os tempos estudados. CONCLUSÃO Estes resultados sugerem que a vitamina E foi capaz de proteger o fígado de lesões causadas por tioacetamida.

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND Severe Acute Liver Failure (ALF) is a life-threatening clinical syndrome characterized by hepatocyte necrosis, loss of hepatic architecture, and impairment of liver functions. One of the main causes of ALF is hepatotoxicity from chemical agents, which damage hepatocytes and result in increase of reactive oxygen species. The vitamin E isoform is the one with the strongest biological antioxidant activity. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the antioxidant effect of vitamin E in this ALF model. METHODS We used 56 rats (mean weight of 300 g) divided into eight groups, four groups assessed at 24 hours and 4 assessed at 48 hours after induction: control group (CO); Vitamin E (Vit. E); Thioacetamide (TAA) and Thioacetamide + Vitamina E (TAA+Vit.E). Rats were submitted to injections of thioacetamide (400 mg/kg i.p.) at baseline and 8 hours later. Vitamin E (100 mg/kg ip) was administered 30 minutes after the second dose of thioacetamide. The 48-hour group rats received two additional doses of vitamin E (24h and 36h). At 24h or 48 hours after the administration of the first dose of TAA, rats were weighed and anesthetized and their blood sampled for evaluation of liver integrity through enzymes aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT). Liver tissue was sampled for assessment of lipid peroxidation (LPO) by the technique TBARS, antioxidant enzymes SOD, CAT, GPx and GST activity, levels of the NO 2 /NO 3 and histology by H&E in two times. The results were expressed as mean ± standard deviation and statistically analyzed by ANOVA followed by Student-Newman-Keuls, with P <0.05 considered as significant. RESULTS After treatment with vitamin E, we observed a reduction in liver enzymes AST (U/L) (101.32±19.45 in 24 hours and 97.85±29.65 in 48 hours) related to the TAA group (469.56± 0.69 in 24 hours and 598.23±55.45 in 48 hours) and ALT (U/L) (76.59±8.56 in 24 hours and 68.47±6.49 in 48 hours) compared to the TAA group (312.21±10.23 in 24 hours and 359.15±17.58 in 48 hours). There was a reduction of LPO (nmol/mg Prot) in the TAA+Vit.E group (0.77±0.07 in 24 hours and 0.95±0.08 in 48 hours) compared to the TAA group (1.50±0.07 in 24 hours e 1.65±0.16 in 48 hours). SOD decreased in the TAA+Vit.E group (49.48±9.47 in 24 hours and 62.45±18, 47 in 48 hours), related to the TAA group (98.46±15.48 in 24 hours and 154.13±21.46 in 48 hours), as well as GST (nmol/min/mg Prot) in the TAA+Vit.E group (350.57±36.93 in 24 hours and 453.29±13.84 in 48 hours) compared to the TAA group (561.57±64.56 in 24 hours and 673.43±38.13 in 48 hours). There was an increase in CAT (pmol/min/mg Prot) in the TAA+Vit.E group (3.40±0.44 in 24 hours and 3.0±0.35 in 48 hours) compared to the TAA group (1.65±0.21 in 24 hours and 1.86±0.42 in 48 hours). The GPx (nmol/min/mg Prot) increased in 24 hours in the TAA+Vit.E group (1.01±0.16) compared to the TAA group (0.41±0.04) and decreased in 48 hours (1.19±0.17) compared to the TAA group (1.76±0.21). There was a reduction in NO2/NO3 (mmol/L) levels in the TAA+Vit.E group (31.47±4.26 in 24 hours and 38.93±5.20 in 48 hours) compared to the TAA group (49.37±5.12 in 24 hours and 53.53±5.97 in 48 hours). The histopathological evaluation showed a decrease in liver injury (necrosis and inflammation) in both studied times. CONCLUSION These results suggest that vitamin E was able to protect the liver from lesions caused by thioacetamide.

RESUMO Introdução: A Hipertensão Portal (HP) é caracterizada por uma vasodilatação no sistema portal, e o intestino é um dos órgãos gravemente acometidos. A N-acetilcisteína (NAC) é uma molécula com importantes propriedades, amplamente utilizada na clínica. Objetivo: Avaliar a ação da NAC no intestino de animais submetidos ao modelo animal de ligadura parcial da veia porta (LPVP). Métodos: Foram utilizados 18 ratos machos Wistar divididos em três grupos experimentais (n = 6): Sham-operated (SO), LPVP, LPVP + NAC. No 8° dia após a cirurgia, a N-acetilcisteína (10 mg/kg,ip) foi administrada diariamente durante 7 dias. No 15° dia foi coletado o intestino dos animais para análises de estresse oxidativo, imunohistoquímica e Western blot. Nós avaliamos a expressão do NF-kb e TNF-α por imunohistoquímica e da iNOS por Western blot. A lipoperoxidação foi avaliada pela técnica de TBARS, e as atividades das enzimas antioxidantes Superóxido Dismutase (SOD) e GlutationaPeroxidase (GPx) foram verificadas. Resultados: Observamos um aumento da expressão do NF-kb e TNF-α no grupo LPVP, e aumento na expressão da iNOS avaliada por Western blot. A NAC reduziu a expressão de todas as proteínas avaliadas. Observamos um aumento do estresse oxidativo no intestino dos ratos do grupo LPVP com relação aos controles (SO), sendo a NAC eficaz na redução desses valores no grupo LPVP + NAC. Ainda, uma redução na atividade das enzimas SOD e GPx no grupo doente, sendo a NAC capaz de restaurar a atividade das enzimas avaliadas. Conclusão: Sugerimos a ação anti-inflamatória e antioxidante da NAC no intestino de animais submetidos ao modelo LPVP.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Portal hypertension (PH) is characterized by vasodilatation in the portal system and the bowel is one of the severely affected organs. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a molecule with important properties and widely used in clinical practice. Objective: To evaluate NAC action in the bowel of animals submitted to the animal model of partial portal vein ligation (PPVL). Methods: 18 male Wistar rats were divided into three experimental groups (n = 6): sham-operated (SO), PPVL, and PPVL + NAC. On the 8th day after surgery, N-acetylcysteine (10 mg/kg, ip) was administered daily for 7 days. On the 15th day the animals’ bowel was collected for oxidative stress analysis, immunohistochemistry and Western blot. We evaluated the expression of NF-KB and TNF-α by immunohistochemistry and of iNOS by Western blot. Lipid peroxidation was assessed by TBARS technique, and the activities of antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutation peroxidase (GPx) were checked. Results: We observed an increased expression of NF-KB and TNF-α in PPVL group, and an increased iNOS expression assessed by Western blot. NAC reduced the expression of all proteins evaluated. We also observed an increase in oxidative stress in the bowel of mice PPVL group compared to controls (SO), and NAC was effective in reducing these values in PPVL + NAC group. Also, a reduction in the activity of SOD and GPx enzymes was observed in the diseased group, and NAC was able to restore the activity of the enzymes assessed. Conclusion: We suggest the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant action of NAC in the bowel of animals submitted to PPVL model.

RESUMO Contexto As complicações inerentes de cirrose incluem a desnutrição proteico-calórica e deficiências de micronutrientes. Alterações no paladar são prejudiciais para o estado nutricional e o mecanismo para explicar essas mudanças não é bem documentada nos pacientes cirróticos. Objetivo Avaliar as papilas gustativas de ratos cirróticos. Métodos Foram avaliados 14 ratos Wistar machos. Após 16 semanas, o fígado foi removido para diagnosticar histologicamente cirrose, e o sangue foi colhido para efetuar testes de integridade hepática. A língua foi removida para exame histológico e imuno-histoquímica utilizando anticorpos contra o gene da proteína PGP 9.5 e os receptores de sabor doce T1R2 e T1R3. As alterações morfológicas foram determinadas por microscopia eletrônica de varredura e os níveis de zinco no soro foram medidos. Resultados Os animais cirróticos, em relação aos animais controle, apresentaram deficiência de zinco significativa. Em ambos os grupos, houve imunorreatividade positiva para o tipo II e células III e receptores T1R2. Os animais cirróticos não tinham imunoreactividade para receptores T1R3. Microscopia eletrônica de varredura do grupo cirrótico revelou um afilamento uniforme das papilas gustativas. Conclusão O modelo de cirrose experimental imitou os parâmetros bioquímicos e histológicos de cirrose humana, portanto, permitindo um estudo das papilas gustativas e paladar.

ABSTRACT Background The inherent complications of cirrhosis include protein-calorie malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies.Changes in taste are detrimental to the nutritional status, and the mechanism to explain these changes is not well documented in the cirrhotic patients. Objective To evaluate the taste buds of cirrhotic rats. Methods Fourteen male Wistar rats were evaluated. After 16 weeks, the liver was removed to histologically diagnose cirrhosis, and blood was collected to perform liver integrity tests. The tongue was removed for histological examination and immunohistochemistry using antibodies against protein gene product PGP 9.5 and the sweet taste receptors T1R2 and T1R3. Morphological changes were determined by scanning electron microscopy. Serum zinc levels were measured. Results The cirrhotic animals, but not the control animals, exhibited zinc deficiency. In both groups, there was positive immunoreactivity for type II and III cells and T1R2 receptors. The cirrhotic animals had no immunoreactivity for T1R3 receptors. Scanning electron microscopy analysis of the cirrhotic group revealed a uniform tapering of the gustatory papillae. Conclusion In conclusion the experimental cirrhosis model mimicked the biochemical and histological parameters of human cirrhosis, therefore enabling a study of the gustatory papillae and taste buds.

Resumo Introdução A doença inflamatória intestinal (DII) caracteriza-se por uma inflamação crônica do trato gastrointestinal sem uma causa ou patógeno específico. Objetivo Foi avaliado o efeito da mesalazina no modelo de colite induzida por ácido acético (AA). Material e métodos Foram utilizados 40 ratos wistar, ±350 gramas, divididos em 4 grupos: Controle (CO); Controle + Mesalasina (CO + M); Colite (CL) e Colite + M (CL + M) nos tempos de 24 e 48 horas de tratamento. Os animais foram submetidos à administração intracolônica por enema com solução de AA a 4% e tratamento com mesalazina na dose oral de 20 mg/kg após a indução da colite. Resultados A mesalazina reduziu as lesões teciduais no intestino, normalizou os níveis de pressão anal esfincteriana, reduziu a lipoperoxidação, metabólitos do óxido nítrico e expressão da iNOS e do NF-kB nos grupos tratados em ambos os tempos de tratamento (24 e 48 horas), bem como a atividade das enzimas antioxidantes. Conclusão A mesalazina demonstrou eficácia na redução das lesões teciduais, danos oxidativos e inflamatórios, restabeleceu a capacidade antioxidante e aumentou os níveis de pressão anal esfincteriana, possivelmente pelo seu efeito antioxidante.

Abstract Introduction Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is characterized by a chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, without specific cause or pathogen. Objective The effect of mesalazine in a colitis model induced by acetic acid (AA) was evaluated. Methods We used 40 Wistar rats, ±350 g, divided into 4 groups: control (CO); control + mesalazine (CO + M); colitis (CL) and colitis + M (CL + M) at 24 and 48 h of treatment. The animals received the substances by an intracolonic enema of AA 4% and treatment with mesalazine PO 20 mg/kg after colitis induction. Results Mesalazine reduced tissue damage in the gut, normalized sphincter anal pressure levels and decreased lipid peroxidation, metabolites of nitric oxide and iNOS and NF-kB expression in the treated groups in both treatment time points (24 and 48 h), as well as the activity of antioxidant enzymes. Conclusion Mesalazine was effective in reducing tissue damage and oxidative and inflammatory damage, restored antioxidant capacity and increased anal sphincter pressure levels, possibly due to its antioxidant effect.

Resumo A retocolite ulcerativa (RCUI) é uma doença intestinal inflamatória. Espécies reativas de oxigênio (ERO) estão envolvidas no progresso da RCUI. Objetivo Avaliar o efeito antioxidante de lecitina em modelo experimental de RCUI induzida pela administração de ácido acético (AA) em ratos. Métodos A Lecitina (0,5 mL/kg/dia) foi administrada por via oral 2 dias antes e após a indução de colite com AA. Vinte e cinco ratos Wistar machos foram divididos em 5 grupos: controle (CO); controle + lecitina (CO + LE); colite (CL); colite + lecitina (CL + LE); lecitina + colite (LE + CL). Foram avaliadas: pressão do esfíncter anal, lipoperoxidação (LPO), atividade antioxidante das enzimas superóxido dismutase (SOD) e catalase (CAT), e foi realizada uma análise histológica com H&E. Resultados e discussão A pressão do esfíncter anal foi significativamente menor no grupo CL, o tratamento com lecitina aumentou a pressão nos grupos pré e pós tratados. A LPO e atividade da SOD aumentaram no grupo CL e diminuiram nos grupos tratados com lecitina. A atividade da CAT foi aumentada no grupo CL e diminuiu nos grupos com lecitina. A análise histológica mostrou danos ao intestino com destruição das criptas, edema e infiltrado inflamatório. O uso de lecitina proporcionou uma preservação das criptas e diminuição do edema. Conclusão A RCUI aumenta a LPO, a utilização de lecitina foi eficaz na redução dos danos ao intestino induzido por AA no modelo de colite experimental.

Abstract Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory disease that affects the bowels. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are involved in the progress of UC. Objective Evaluate the antioxidant effect of lecithin in an experimental model of acute UC induced by administration of acetic acid (AA) in rats. Methods Lecithin (0.5 mL/kg/day) administered orally 2 days before and after induction of colitis with 4% AA in a volume of 4 mL. Twenty-five male Wistar rats were divided in 5 groups: control (CO); control + lecithin (CO + LE); colitis (CL); colitis + lecithin (CL + LE); lecithin + colitis (LE + CL). Anal sphincter pressure, LPO (TBARS), and antioxidant activity of enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) were measured, and a histological analysis with H&E was performed. Results and discussion Anal sphincter pressure was significantly smaller in the CO group, lecithin treatment increased it in pre- and post-treated groups. LPO and SOD activity were increased in the CO group and decreased in the lecithin-treated groups. CAT activity was increased in CO group and decreased in lecithin groups. The histological analysis showed damage to the bowels with destruction of crypts, edema, and inflammatory infiltrate. Use of lecithin preserved the crypts and decreased the edema. Conclusion Ulcerative colitis increased lipid peroxidation, and the use of lecithin was effective reducing damage to the bowels in the model of experimental colitis.

Introduction: Fulminant hepatic failure (FHF) is a rare clinical syndrome, characterized by sudden and severe liver dysfunction. Thioacetamide (TAA) is a hepatotoxin whose administration can induce centrilobular necrosis in liver cells and increase the formation of reactive oxygen species and lipid peroxidation in rats. Glutamine is a precursor for glutathione synthesis. Objective: The objective of the study to assess the antioxidant effects of glutamine in a rat model of TAA-induced FHF. Methods: Male Wistar rats were divided into four groups according to treatment and time of assessment: control, glutamine (25 mg/kg), thioacetamide (400 mg/kg) and thioacetamide plus glutamine. Animals were assessed after 24, 36 and 48 hours. Blood samples were collected for the analysis of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (AP), total bilirubin (TB) and creatinine (CRE) levels, and liver samples were used to evaluate lipid peroxidation, acid-reactive thiobarbituric substances (TBARS), antioxidant enzyme activity superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT) and glutathione S-transferase (GST). Nuclear factor κB (NF-κB), tumor necrosis factors (TNF-α) and nitric oxide synthase inducible (iNOS) levels were assessed by histology and immunohistochemistry. Results: TAA caused alterations in biochemical and histological parameters, and increased markers of the inflammatory process. TBARS levels and the activity of SOD and GST were significantly lower in the glutamine group as compared to the TAA group. CAT activity was elevated in animals treated with glutamine as compared to the TAA groups. GPx activity was also lower in the glutamine-treated groups than in TAA-treated animals at 36 and 48 hours. Tissue damage and NF-κB, TNF-α and iNOS expression were significantly lower in animals treated with glutamine. Conclusion: Glutamine has shown to have protective effects against liver damage in a rat model of TAA-induced FHF.

Introducción: la insuficiencia hepática fulminante (IHF) es un síndrome clínico poco frecuente, que se caracteriza por una disfunción hepática severa y repentina. La tioacetamida (TAA) es una hepatotoxina cuya administración puede inducir necrosis centrolobulillar en las células hepáticas y aumentar la formación de especies reactivas de oxígeno y la peroxidación lipídica en ratas. La glutamina es un precursor para la síntesis de glutatión. Objetivo: el objetivo del estudio es evaluar los efectos antioxidantes de la glutamina en un modelo de rata de IHF inducida por TAA. Métodos: ratas macho Wistar se dividieron en cuatro grupos de acuerdo con el tratamiento y el tiempo de evaluación: control, glutamina (25 mg/kg), tioacetamida (400 mg/kg) y tioacetamida más glutamina. Los animales se evaluaron después de 24, 36 y 48 horas. Se recogieron muestras de sangre para el análisis de los niveles de aspartato aminotransferasa (AST), alanina aminotransferasa (ALT), fosfatasa alcalina (AP), bilirrubina total (TB) y creatinina (CRE), y muestras de hígado para evaluar la peroxidación lipídica, las sustancias reactivas al ácido tiobarbitúrico (TBARS), la actividad de las enzimas antioxidantes superóxido dismutasa (SOD), glutatión peroxidasa (GPx), catalasa (CAT) y glutatión S-transferasa (GST). Además se midieron mediante inmunohistoquímicael factor nuclear kappa N (NF-κB), el fator de necrosis tumoral (TNF-α) y la óxido nítrico sintasa inducible (iNOS). Resultados: la TAA causó alteraciones en los parámetros bioquímicos e histológicos, y el aumento de los marcadores del proceso inflamatorio. Los niveles de TBARS y la actividad de SOD y GST fueron significativamente inferiores en los grupos de glutamina en comparación con TAA. La actividad de CAT se incrementó en los animales tratados con glutamina en comparación con la TAA. La actividad GPx también fue menor a las 36 y 48 h en los animales tratados com glutamina. El daño tisular y la expresión de NF-κB, TNF-α e iNOS fueron significativamente inferiores en los animales tratados con glutamina. Conclusión: la glutamina ha demostrado tener efectos protectores contra el daño hepático en un modelo de IHF inducida por TAA en la rata.

Contexto A falência renal é uma complicação grave e frequente em pacientes com cirrose descompensada. Objetivo Avaliar o estresse oxidativo, o dano ao DNA e alterações na função celular no rim em um modelo animal de cirrose. Métodos A cirrose biliar secundária foi induzida em ratos através da ligadura do duto biliar comum. Foi medido no rim o TBARS (substâncias que reagem ao ácido tiobarbitúrico), ERO (espécies reativas de oxigênio), o potencial de membrana mitocondrial e a atividade das enzimas antioxidantes. A viabilidade celular foi determinada utilizando o ensaio de exclusão do trypan-blue. Para distinguir células em apoptose ou necrose foram usados os marcadores: Anexina V-PE e 7-AAD e o ensaio cometa foi utilizado para determinar dano ao DNA. Resultados Em animais cirróticos houve um aumento significativo da lipoperoxidação no rim e na quantidade de ERO intracelular. Foi observado um aumento na atividade de todas as enzimas antioxidantes. A porcentagem de viabilidade celular foi superior a 90% no grupo controle e de 64,66% no grupo da ligadura do duto biliar. O padrão de morte celular predominante foi apoptose e houve dano ao DNA no grupo da ligadura do duto biliar. Observou-se uma redução no potencial de membrana mitocondrial no grupo da ligadura do duto biliar (34,48% ± 11,40%) em comparação aos controles (71,40% ± 6,35%). Conclusão Esses resultados parecem indicar que nos animais cirróticos ocorre um aumento no dano oxidativo e ao DNA levando as células renais à apoptose, o que contribui para a falência renal na cirrose.

Background Renal failure is a frequent and serious complication in patients with decompensated cirrhosis. Objectives We aimed to evaluate the renal oxidative stress, cell damage and impaired cell function in animal model of cirrhosis. Methods Secondary biliary cirrhosis was induced in rats by ligation of the common bile duct. We measured TBARS, ROS and mitochondrial membrane potential in kidney as markers of oxidative stress, and activities of the antioxidant enzymes. Relative cell viability was determined by trypan blue dye-exclusion assay. Annexin V-PE was used with a vital dye, 7-AAD, to distinguish apoptotic from necrotic cells and comet assay was used for determined DNA integrity in single cells. Results In bile duct ligation animals there was significant increase in the kidney lipoperoxidation and an increase of the level of intracellular ROS. There was too an increase in the activity of all antioxidant enzymes evaluated in the kidney. The percentage viability was above 90% in the control group and in bile duct ligation was 64.66% and the dominant cell death type was apoptosis. DNA damage was observed in the bile duct ligation. There was a decreased in the mitochondrial membrane potential from 71.40% ± 6.35% to 34.48% ± 11.40% in bile duct ligation. Conclusions These results indicate that intracellular increase of ROS cause damage in the DNA and apoptosis getting worse the renal function in cirrhosis.

Objective Obstructive sleep apnea is a common disorder associated with aging and obesity. Apneas cause repeated arousals, intermittent hypoxia, and oxidative stress. Changes in glucolipidic profile occur in apnea patients, independently of obesity. Animal models of sleep apnea induce hyperglycemia. This study aims to evaluate the effect of the antioxidants melatonin and N-acetylcysteine on glucose, triglyceride, and cholesterol levels in animals exposed to intermittent hypoxia. Materials and methods Two groups of Balb/c mice were exposed to intermittent hypoxia (n = 36) or sham intermittent hypoxia (n = 36) for 35 days. The intermittent hypoxia group underwent a total of 480 cycles of 30 seconds reducing the inspired oxygen fraction from 21% to 7 ± 1% followed by 30 seconds of normoxia, during 8 hours daily. Melatonin or N-acetylcysteine were injected intraperitonially daily from day 21 on. Results At day 35, glucose levels were significantly higher in the intermittent hypoxia group than in the control group. The intermittent hypoxia groups receiving N-acetylcysteine and vehicle showed higher glucose levels than the group receiving melatonin. The lipid profile was not affected by intermittent hypoxia or antioxidant administration. Conclusions The present results suggest that melatonin prevents the well-recognized increase in glucose levels that usually follows exposure to intermittent hypoxia. Further exploration of the role of melatonin in sleep apnea is warranted. Arch Endocrinol Metab. 2015;59(1):66-70