The effect of chlorpyrifos on the aorta

Atherosclerosis is defined as a slow process of inflammation in medium-sized and large arteries fuelled by deposition of lipid. Classified as one of the major non communicable disease, it is accounted for the health burdens facing by many countries. Chlorpyrifos (CPF) is an organophosphorous insecticide that possesses various human systemic toxicities. The present study is therefore designed to demonstrate the atherosclerosis development in rats’ aorta following exposure to CPF. By using powerful tools such as scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscope, we attempt to visualize ultrastructural alterations of intima layer covering advanced atherosclerotic plaque. Eighteen male Sprague–Dawley rats weighing 150-200 g were grouped into CPF exposed, vehicle exposed and control group. CPF exposed rats received subcutaneous injection of 18 mg/kg chlorpyrifos dissolved in vehicle with a volume of 0.7 ml/kg body weight while vehicle rats administered with vehicle containing 3% Dimethyl sulphoxide and 97% v/v soy oil. The rats were injected intermittently for 6 months. The rats were sacrificed at the end of 6 months of study and the aortic arch tissue was processed for electron microscopy. On observation, there were disruptions of the intimal layer of the CPF exposed rat aorta. Numerous notable endothelial gaps between endothelial cells were identified. The endothelial cells also were irregularly oriented and morphologically changed. Several areas of deendothelialization were noticed. There was no obvious ultrastructural change in the aorta of the rats fed with vehicle. As for transmission electron photomicrograph, foam cells and calcium crystals were found in CPF exposed rat aorta. No foam cell and calcium crystal were found in rats’ aorta exposed to vehicle and without treatment. Histological staining with toluidine blue able to identify several areas of intimal protrusions and elastic fibers disorientation in CPF exposed rat aorta. In conclusion, it is likely that prolonged CPF administration caused vascular wall damage and may be one of the mechanisms involved in CPF-induced atherosclerosi

Evaluation of acute and sub-acute oral toxicity of the aqueous extract of aquilaria malaccensis leaves in sprague dawley rats

Aquilaria malaccensis or commonly known as ‘gaharu’ is a species of Aquilaria genus and belongs to the Thymelaeaceae family. It is widely distributed in Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Borneo Islands. Traditionally, its leaves were used to relieve bruises and studies have shown that they function as an antioxidant, aphrodisiac, and tranquilizer. Despite its proven beneficial medicinal properties, information regarding its toxicity is limited. Therefore, we performed a safety evaluation on the aqueous A. malaccensis leaves extract (AMAE) in Sprague Dawley rats. The assessment of acute toxicity based on the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Guideline 420 revealed that AMAE did not influence mortality, clinical appearance, body weight gain, or necropsy findings at a dose of 2000 mg/kg body weight. In the sub-acute toxicity, all doses did not significantly modify the body weight and food and water intake. In male rats treated with 2000 mg/kg, there was a significant reduction in the relative weight of liver. Not only that, an increase in alkaline phosphatase and alanine transaminase was also observed in different groups among the female rats. A significant decrease in the creatinine level was also seen among male rats administered with different doses of AMAE. In both sexes, histopathological analysis had shown abnormalities in the liver and kidney of rats treated at the dose of 2000 mg/kg. In conclusion, the 50% lethal dose (LD50) of AMAE was estimated to be greater than 2000 mg/kg. In sub-acute duration, the findings suggested that AMAE administered orally is slightly toxic at higher doses (2000 mg/kg) and could provoke functional and structural changes in the kidney and liver of rats. Thus, the extract should be used with caution

The effects of Tualang honey on sperm profile and follicular-stimulating hormone in high cholesterol diet induced animal model

Introduction: Hypercholesterolaemia is a recognised factor associated with male infertility. However, currently, there is limited therapy available. Tualang honey (TH) is a type of Malaysian polyfloral wild honey produced by the rock bee (Apis dorsata) that has been proven to exert both anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative effects. This study aimed to determine the effects of TH on the sperm profile and follicular-stimulating hormone (FSH) level of high cholesterol diet (HCD) administered rats. Materials and Methods: Thirty male Sprague Dawley rats were randomly divided into a control group (n=6) fed with the standard diet and HCD group (n=24). The rats in the control group were fed with standard rat pellets while rats in the HCD group were fed with 12% HCD for 16 weeks. At the end of 16 weeks, rats in HCD group were divided into four subgroups (H1, H2, H3, and H4) and continued with 12% HCD in addition to administration of distilled water, 1.2, 2.4, and 3.0 g of honey per kg body weight daily respectively for another 4 weeks. While the rats in the control group continued with commercial rat pellets without honey supplementation for the same duration. At the end of 4 weeks, all rats were sacrificed, and blood specimens were taken for FSH estimation, and the cauda epididymis was collected for sperm analysis. Results: The FSH level and the sperm parameters (sperm concentration, morphology, percentage of total sperm motility,progressive motility, and viability of rats in HCD subgroup H1 were significantly reduced compared to the control (p<0.001). In contrast, all TH supplemented subgroups demonstrated significant improvement in their sperm parameters (p<0.001). The higher the dosage of TH in the HCD subgroup, the greater the improvements in the sperm concentration, morphology, and viability. Although the levels of FSH were increased in all treated HCD groups compared to H1, there was no significant difference in the serum FSH levels between the groups. Conclusion: The Tualang honey supplementation improved the sperm profile in HCD induced animal models

The effects of Tualang honey on sperm profile in high cholesterol diet induction animal model

Background: Hypercholesterolaemia and obesity are recognized factors associated with male infertility. They have been shown to reduce the semen quality, change the sperm proteomes and also contribute to erectile dysfunction. However, currently there is limited therapy available. Tualang honey (TH) is a type of Malaysian polyfloral wild honey produced by the rock bee (Apis dorsata) proven to exert both anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative effects. Objective: This study aimed to determine the effects of TH on the sperm profile of animal model with chronic exposure to high cholesterol diet. Methodology: Thirty male Sprague Dawley rats 2 weeks of age weighing 200 - 250 gm were divided into two groups, the high (12%) cholesterol diet (12% CD; n= 24) and standard diet (SD; n=6) and were fed for 16 weeks. At 16 weeks, the rats in the 12% CD group were subsequently divided into four groups. The first group was continued with only 12% CD while the other 3 groups in addition to the 12% CD, they were given TH supplement at different doses (1.2, 2.4 and 3.0 g/kg/day) for 4 weeks. Sperm profile analysis from the caudal epididymis was performed for all groups at the end of the 4 weeks. Results: At 16 weeks of 12% CD, the sperm concentration, the percentage of total sperm motility, progressive motility and viability reduced significantly compared to the SD group (p<0.001). On the contrary, all TH supplemented groups demonstrated significant improvement in the sperm concentration, percentage of sperm viability, total sperm motility and progressive motility (p<0.001). Conclusion: TH supplementation of animal model with chronic exposure to high cholesterol diet improved the sperm profile parameters. Based on our findings, there is a need to further explore the potential TH in improving male infertility associated with hypercholesterolaemia and obesity

Ameliorative effects of Aquilaria malaccensis leaves aqueous extract on reproductive toxicity induced by cyclophosphamide in male rats

Background: Cyclophosphamide (CP) is a widely used anti-neoplastic and immunosuppressive agent that is associated with adverse side effects including reproductive toxicity. Aquilaria malaccensis (AM) is a traditional medicinal plant which was reported to exhibit high anti-oxidant and free radical scavenging properties. The present study was aimed to evaluate the protective effects of AM leaves extract on sperm quality following toxic exposure to CP. Methods: Forty-eight male Sprague Dawley rats were allocated into eight groups of six rats (n = 6): control, CP only (200 mg kg−1 ), AM only (100 mg kg−1 , 300 mg kg−1 and 500 mg kg−1 ) and CP + AM (100 mg kg−1 , 300 mg kg−1 and 500 mg kg−1 ). Animals were sacrificed after 63 days of treatment and the sperm from the caudal epididymis was taken for sperm analysis. Results: The body and the reproductive organs weight, sperm count and motility did not differ between CP and other groups (P > 0.05). A significant increase (P < 0.05) in percentage of the dead and abnormal sperm were seen in the CP alone treated group compared to the control group. Co-administration of AM to the CP exposed rats significantly reduced the (P < 0.05) percentage of abnormal sperm as compared to the CP only group. Conclusion: Overall, the present results represent the potential of AM to protect against CP induced reproductive toxicity

Paraoxonase-1 (PON1): bridging the organophosphate exposure to atherosclerosis

Introduction: Organophosphate (OP) is hydrolyzed by paraoxonase (PON1), an antioxidant enzyme that prevent atherosclerosis by inhibiting oxidative modification of low density lipoprotein (LDL). Low PON1 activities have been observed among individuals chronically exposed to OP while their decreased activities were reported in individuals with atherosclerosis related disease. However, a connection between chronic OP exposure, PON1 and the development of atherosclerosis has not yet been reported. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of chronic OP exposure on the development of atherosclerosis in rat model. Materials & Methods: Twenty male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into 3 groups; Group 1 did not receive any injection, both Group 2 and Group 3 received subcutaneous injection of vehicle and injection of 18.0 mg/kg of chlorpyrifos (CPF) respectively every other day for 180 days. Blood were analyzed for paraoxonase enzyme activities and ox-LDL. Aorta were harvested and stained for light and electron microscopic examination. Results: The paraoxonase activities, oxidized LDL and PON1: ox-LDL ratio were found to be significantly lower in OP exposed rats. The OP exposed rats also showed positive early atherosclerosis changes microscopically with VCAM-1 expression. The electron microscopic (EM) showed evidence of vascular damage with disruptions of the intimal layer of aorta, irregularly oriented and morphologically changed endothelial cells and numerous endothelial gaps with areas of deendothelialization. Discussion: This study highlighted that chronic OP exposure leads to the development of atherosclerosis which is confirmed microscopically and further affirmed by positive VCAM-1 expression. The basis for the above observation could be explain by low PON1 activities and low PON1:ox-LDL ratio. In conclusion, chronic intermittent low dose of OP chlorpyrifos induced the development of early atherosclerosis which could be explained by inability of the PON1 to hydrolyze oxidized-LDL. Keywords: paraoxonase, atherosclerosis, chlorpyrifos, organophsphate, oxidized-low density lipoprotei

Identification of VASA gene expression in in-vitro culture from non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) testicular biopsy cells: A study to unlock knowledge of male infertility

The expression product of VASA gene is widely conserved germ line marker and participates to regulate the development of reproductive system and spermatogenesis in healthy man. Azoospermic is a condition which the man is unable to produce any sperm cells for reproduction activity. This condition produced has bad impact to the man since the ability to produce their own progeny will be interrupted or blocked forever. Not only the family bloodline of the man would be ended, the psychological issue like shamefulness and low self-esteem occurs. In Islam, seeking knowledge is an obligatory to Muslims in order to solve problems and improve lives. Thus to unveil the problem of azoospermic man we aimed to determine the level of VASA gene expression in samples of testes cells of non-obstructive azoospermic (NOA) and compare it with sperms of healthy man. Samples were taken from three NOA patients by testicular sperm extraction (TESE) to obtain testicular biopsies. Testicular cells were isolated and cultured in supplemented knockout DMEM media. VASA gene expression was determined by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The VASA gene expression from sperm of healthy man was also determined for comparison purpose. It was demonstrated that the addition of growth factor significantly increased SSC-like cells colony formation in tissues obtained from NOA patients. No VASA expression was detected in spermatogonial-like stem cells culture on day 1, 7, 14 and 21 in each of the azoospermic samples. Our findings shown VASA gene was not expressed in spermatogenesis in vitro culture that might be associated with the abnormal differentiation of primordial germ cells that lead to male infertility. Islam also teaches us to not have feelings of despair and for problems that we are facing but to find the solution and consider the problem as a test from the Almighty. All the tests should be handled with strong believe since only Allah (SWT) knows what the best for us and each of the tests will have justified wisdom and benefits which we as human being are unable to realise thoroughly

Spermatogonial stem cells protein marker identification from in vitro differentiation of nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) testes biopsies cells: An approach in line with Maqasid Shariah to maintain the heredity.

Azoospermia is present in 15% of infertile cases and it is a major concern due to inability to produce sperm. Most of IVF (in-vitro fertilization) clinics abroad has been using sperm donation via sperm bank facilities as a solution for infertile couple to have their own offspring. In Islam, it is forbidden to use sample from male other than their spouse. It is according to maqasid syari’ah to ensure the heredity of the human being. Based on the latest technology, one approach of stem cell differentiation process had been established to produce mature cells from primitive or immature cells (stem cells). This technology is in line with the concept of maqasid syari’ah since we are using the cells from one person. We try to adopt this technology to study the potential of testicular cells from non-obstructive azoospermic (NOA) patient to undergo in vitro spermatogenesis. Samples were cultured in modified human embryonic stem cells (HESC) media with specific growth factors; basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF). Protein expressions were analyzed by immunofluorescent staining on day 49 and 90 of culture. Results show spermatogonial stem cell-like cells (SSC-like cells) colonies formed after 14 to 21 days, the cells were expanding successfully and were stable for 49 days duration. Then SSCs differentiated into later stage of spermatogenesis on day 90. Four specifics SSCs protein markers were identified on day 49; ITGA1, ITGB1, CD9 and GFRA1 whereas SCP3 and TP1 proteins were expressed on day 90. This in vitro spermatogenesis suggests a possible approach for future for Muslim NOA patients in order to have their own children

Knowledge level on the association between body mass index (BMI), menstrual cycle and lifestyle patterns in contributing the development of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) among female university students

Introduction: Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogeneous endocrine disorder characterized by anovulation, hyperandrogenism, infertility and metabolic dysfunction, that affect ladies in their adolescent period until menopause, specifically at reproductive age. The objective of this study was to determine the knowledge level of PCOS and the association between BMI, menstrual cycle and lifestyle pattern in contributing the development of PCOS and its relationship with sociodemographic characteristics among female students at International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM), Kuantan, Pahang. Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional study using convenience sampling method was conducted among 245 female undergraduate students of IIUM Kuantan Campus, from April to May of 2021. Data were collected using Google Forms platform and a quantitative questionnaire which was available in English Language and distributed to all female undergraduate students in the campus. The set of questionnaires were taken from a research paper by Thomas et al. (2018). Data analysis was done by using SPSS version 21.0. Results: The majority of the participants have above-average knowledge level regarding PCOS and its association with BMI, menstrual cycle and lifestyle pattern (58.0%). The mean score on knowledge on the association between BMI and development of PCOS significantly different in between kulliyyah and year of study, with Kulliyyah of Medicine and students from Year 5 are higher compared to other Kulliyyah and year of study, respectively. For the association between menstrual cycle and development of PCOS, the mean score on knowledge is differed significantly across year of study. The mean score on knowledge on the association between lifestyle pattern and development of PCOS differed significantly across kulliyyah with Kulliyyah of Allied Health Science are higher compared to other kulliyyah. Conclusion: Female undergraduate students have above-average knowledge regarding PCOS and its association with BMI, menstrual cycle, and lifestyle patterns

Dietary supplements: a survey use, attitudes and knowledge among IIUM Kuantan students

Objectives: Dietary supplements have been recognized as products that are globally used, especially among university students due to its effectiveness and benefits towards health. In order to determine the efficiency of the supplements, the users must equip themselves with knowledge on the usage of dietary supplements. Hence, this study mainly aims to assess the usage, attitude and knowledge on dietary supplements among IIUM Kuantan students. Method: This study used a descriptive cross-sectional with stratified random sampling study among 349 undergraduate students at the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM), Kuantan campus. Data was collected using online questionnaires and shared with students from IIUM Kuantan campus. The data was analyzed by using IBM Statistical Package Social Science (SPSS) version 25.0. Results: The overall prevalence of dietary supplements used by the students in the university was 31.8%. On the other hand, students show to have positive attitude and good knowledge, 70.8% and 84.0%, respectively. There was an association between course study and presence of illness with the level of attitudes based on Fisher exact test with p-values of <0.05 representing statistical significance. The same test was used resulting in age and BMI were associated with the level of knowledge. Conclusion: Prevalence of dietary supplements used was lower than other local findings and most of the students depict a good level of knowledge and positive attitudes towards dietary supplements. nevertheless, educational information regarding dietary supplements still needs to be provided to university students as the number of consumers keeps rising