@article { author = {El-Sayed, Ibrahim and Bassiouny, Khalid and Nokaly, Aziz and Abdelghani, Ahmed S.}, title = {Influenza virus A and B can induce apoptosis via intrinsic or extrinsic pathways and also via NF-kB.}, journal = {Biochemistry Letters}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {1-17}, year = {2016}, publisher = {Zagazig University; Faculty of Science. Center of Scientific Studies and Researches}, issn = {1687-4773}, eissn = {2974-4725}, doi = {10.21608/blj.2016.47839}, abstract = {Objectives Influenza viruses are able to cause annual epidemics and pandemics due to their mutation rates and reassortment capabilities leading to antigenic drifts and antigenic shifts. To understand host response to influenza A and B viruses on A549, MDCK II cell lines at low and high MOIs, the effects of the viral infection were investigated. To identify virus host interplay, expression of MxA and caspases 3, caspases 7 and caspases 9, BAD, TNF α and IkBα genes were measured in the cells supernatants. Methods Cell viability and apoptosis were evaluated by LDH measurement, DNA fragmentation, and florescent staining. The resulting data points to all viruses of studied strains induced extrinsic and intrinsic apoptosis, H1N1 and H3N2 respectively prefer initially enhances the intrinsic pathway, as determined by caspase 9 activity and INFB prefer intrinsic pathway according to caspase 8 activity in A549 cell line but also can choose extrinsic pathway as determined by caspase 9 activity MDCKII cells. Results The result suggests a role for IFN response in the replication of influenza A and B virus that may provide some degree of host resistance in the early stages of infection. Our study also showed that the considerable MxA expression was found in influenza A and B virus, infected A549 and MDCK II cells at low dose of the virus. Conclusions The expression levels of survival downstream targets of IκB protein level, including pro-apoptotic BAD levels were studied throughout the infection periods cells to influenza A and B induced apoptosis signaling via intrinsic and extrinsic pathways in parallel, and the induction was associated with viral infection in a dose dependent manner. }, keywords = {Influenza virus,Caspases,apoptosis}, url = {https://blj.journals.ekb.eg/article_47839.html}, eprint = {https://blj.journals.ekb.eg/article_47839_0ec651cc69236749b1fb94e187594765.pdf} } @article { author = {Abou-El-haded Ibrahim, Hamdy and Abd El-Atty, Sahar and Hindy, Odette W. and Hassan, N.}, title = {Hyperprolactinemiemia and infertility in Egypt}, journal = {Biochemistry Letters}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {18-26}, year = {2016}, publisher = {Zagazig University; Faculty of Science. Center of Scientific Studies and Researches}, issn = {1687-4773}, eissn = {2974-4725}, doi = {10.21608/blj.2016.47841}, abstract = {Background: Several IRMA and enzeme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits used to determine PRL are available. In practice, most routine PRL determinations are performed on automated immunoassay systems with either chemiluminescence or fluorescence-based detection. PRL usually is calibrated against references materials with WHO reference materials. Without the performance of such calibration PRL results that are expressed in mass units are not comparable from assay to assay. Hyperprolactinemia is present in 15% to 20% of women undergoing evaluation for infertility .In some studies the severity of hyperprolactinemia roughly correlates with the degree of menstrual dysfunction. In an infertility clinic in Brazil, Bahamondes and colleagues (1985) reported hyperprolactinemia in 55% of women with amenorrhea, in 37% with oiigomenorrhea, and in 9% with normal menses. Galactorrhea occurs in 50% to 80% of women with. hyperprolactinemia and may occur with or without menstrual dysfunction . The regulation of prolactin secretion is mediated through the inhibitory effects of hypothalamic dopamine. In animals and humans hypersecretion of prolactin leads to inhibition of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion. Although the primary abnormality in  hyperprolactinemia is a decrease in hypothalamic GnRH secretion, prolactin also has a direct inhibitory effect on the ovaries, leading to decreased estrogen synthesis. Objectives: To study the incidence of hyperprolactinemia in infertile females in Egypt. Methods: two groups participated in this study group I composed of 36 subjects with hyperprolactinemia and the other Group II composed from 36 healthy women as a control group . PRL-TSH and FT4 hormones were analysed in two groups by chemiluminescence immunoassay (cobas) .Results: Significant higher value of (PRL) and (TSH) (p< 0.001) were observed in the patient group (I) when compared with control group II. While significant lower values (p < 0.001) in F-T4 were observed in patients of group I.when compared with control group II. Conclusions: there is a high incidence of hyperprolactinaemia in 1ry infertile women mainly with galactorrhea and there is a good positive correlation between hypothyroidism and hyperprolactinemia . }, keywords = {}, url = {https://blj.journals.ekb.eg/article_47841.html}, eprint = {https://blj.journals.ekb.eg/article_47841_6be7db5d561369dbf0416738c5684986.pdf} } @article { author = {EL-TORKY, A .M. M. and Keshta, A. T. and Atef, Ehab}, title = {Anti-tumor and anti-oxidant activities of some Novel Synthetic Pyrazoline Derivatives}, journal = {Biochemistry Letters}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {27-36}, year = {2016}, publisher = {Zagazig University; Faculty of Science. Center of Scientific Studies and Researches}, issn = {1687-4773}, eissn = {2974-4725}, doi = {10.21608/blj.2016.47845}, abstract = {   Background: pyrazolines are used widely in the current decades due to their various biological and pharmacological activities Aim: The main objective of the present study is to evaluate the chemotherapeutic effects of some novel substituted pyrazoline compounds against animal carcinogesis. Materials & Methods: the synthesized Pyrazoline derivatives were characterized by IR spectroscopy, and then their effects on Ehrlich Carcinoma were studied by evaluation their antitumor activity (viability of tumor cells, and life span prolongation), and estimation of antioxidants (catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase activities, glutathione reduced content, and total antioxidant capacity). Results: Pyrazoline derivatives showed a significant reduction in the volume and count of Ehrlich cells. Also, these compounds suggested potential antioxidant activity by elevation the catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase activities, and glutathione reduced content. Conclusion: the synthesized compounds have potent antitumor, antioxidant, and decrease the survival of cancer cells. }, keywords = {EAC,Pyrazolines,antioxidants}, url = {https://blj.journals.ekb.eg/article_47845.html}, eprint = {https://blj.journals.ekb.eg/article_47845_e49f9ce7380cfdc26b6177a1cc524a82.pdf} } @article { author = {Ameen, Shimaa Hamed and Keshta, Akaber T. and Abd-Elfatah, Samaa Salah}, title = {Influence of Propolis, Nigella sativa on toxicity induced by Chlorpyrifos administration in adult male albino rats.}, journal = {Biochemistry Letters}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {37-49}, year = {2016}, publisher = {Zagazig University; Faculty of Science. Center of Scientific Studies and Researches}, issn = {1687-4773}, eissn = {2974-4725}, doi = {10.21608/blj.2016.47848}, abstract = {   Background: Chlorpyrifos (CPF) is one of the most widely used Organophosphates (OPs) insecticides in agriculture and public health. Natural products (Propolis and Nigella Sativa) are a promising source for the discovery of new pharmaceuticals. Aim: The present study was an attempt to evaluate the benefits of Propolis and Nigella Sativa alone and in combination against toxicity induced by Chlorpyrifos in on lung and heart tissues of adult male albino rats. Materials & Methods: 54 adult male albino rats were equally divided into 9 groups as following: Group I (negative control group); Group II: received the solvent. Group III (Propolis treated group): in which each rat received orally Propolis only rats (400mg/kg body weight) dissolved in corn oil. Group IV (Nigella Sativa oil treated group) each rat received orally Nigella Sativa oil (100 mg/kg) dissolved in corn oil. Group V: (Propolis and Nigella Sativa treated group). Group VI (CPF treated group): rats gavaged orally CPF at a daily dose of 6.75 mg/kg (1/20 of the oral LD50 of CPF (135mg/kg) dissolved in corn. Group 7 (CPF and Propolis treated group): rats gavaged orally Propolis before CPF administration. Group 8 (CPF and Nigella Sativa oil treated group): the rats gavaged orally Nigella Sativa before CPF. Group 9 (CPF, Nigella Sativa oil and Propolis treated group). Results: Chlorpyrifos induced a highly significant increase in lactate dehydrogenase, creatine kinase activities, elevation of Galctin-3 and troponin levels, and a significant reduction in acetylcholine esterase activity. All these alterations were confirmed histopathologically in lung and heart tissues, where Chlorpyrifos induced myocardial necrosis, muscular hyalinosis, bronchopneumonia and bronchitis. Meanwhile, Propolis and Nigella Sativa showed a protective action against Chlorpyrifos toxic effects especially when used in combination. Conclusion: It can be concluded that Propolis and Nigella Sativa had an ameliorating effect against this toxicity induced in adult albino rats. }, keywords = {Propolis,Nigella Sativa,chlorpyrifos,Oxidative Stress}, url = {https://blj.journals.ekb.eg/article_47848.html}, eprint = {https://blj.journals.ekb.eg/article_47848_eea22bb2d5bfd2c2339d57b90a758510.pdf} } @article { author = {El-Gayar, Hussam Ahmed}, title = {Simple, Fast and Economic Method for Extraction and Determination of Ochratoxin A in Serum by High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC)}, journal = {Biochemistry Letters}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {50-59}, year = {2016}, publisher = {Zagazig University; Faculty of Science. Center of Scientific Studies and Researches}, issn = {1687-4773}, eissn = {2974-4725}, doi = {10.21608/blj.2016.47851}, abstract = {Objective: A simple high performance liquid chromatographic method for the determination of ochratoxin A (OTA) in human blood serum is described. Method: The extraction procedure was simple and short, and liquid chromatographic analysis was carried out isocratically on reversed-phase C18 column, with acetonitrile : 0.08M phosporic acid : isopropanol (45:45:10) at a flow rate of 1.5ml/min, and fluorescence detection (excitation at 330 nm and emission at 460 nm). Results: The mean recovery from authentic contaminated samples (n=5) spiked at 0.3, 1, 2, 4 ng/ml OTA was 97.98% (s.d=2.03). Thirty seven Egyptian serum samples were naturally contaminated with OTA in the range 0.1-2.88 ng/ml. Conclusions: The method is technically simple, specific, cost effective, time saving, suitable for large sample and requires small amount of sample and reagents. It fulfills the criteria for routine method and could be a suitable tool for surveying OTA in human blood serum. }, keywords = {Alumina,HPLC,Ochratoxin A,serum}, url = {https://blj.journals.ekb.eg/article_47851.html}, eprint = {https://blj.journals.ekb.eg/article_47851_ea37d8da7f1fc7c9ba3fa9ce9f5c6d2d.pdf} } @article { author = {Elabdeen, Nabila Zain and Yassien, Fathy and Amer, Sally Mohammed}, title = {The Role of Interleukin-10 Gene Polymorphism in Egyptian Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C Virus}, journal = {Biochemistry Letters}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {60-70}, year = {2016}, publisher = {Zagazig University; Faculty of Science. Center of Scientific Studies and Researches}, issn = {1687-4773}, eissn = {2974-4725}, doi = {10.21608/blj.2016.47860}, abstract = {   Background and Aim: Infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV) is the major cause of chronic liver disease worldwide, but few of patients are able to clear the virus naturally. Interleukin-10 (IL-10) is a multifunctional cytokine with anti-inflammatory properties that can suppress the immune response against HCV. Interindividual  Variations in IL-10 production are genetically contributed by polymorphisms within the IL-10 promoter region. This study aimed to investigate the association of the IL-10 gene promoter (−1082 G/A) polymorphism with HCV infection susceptibility in Egyptian individuals ,also study relation between different genotypes in this promoter region and liver histopathology, in addition to studying correlation between different biochemical parameters including ALT,AST,TNF-alpha, Albumin, Total serum bilirubin, Platelets count.  Methodology: Two hundred chronically infected patients and one hundred controls were enrolled in the study. IL-10 (−1,082 G/A) genotyping was performed by amplification refractory mutation system-polymerase chain reaction (ARMS-PCR).TNF-alpha serum level was assessed by ELISA, other biochemical analysis were performed using aRoche Hitachi chemistry analyzer(USA).METAVIR scoring system was used to assess necroinflamation and fibrosis in liver biopsy.  Results: Under the dominant model for IL-10 (-1082G/A), (AA vs.GA;GG) we found a higher frequencies of A allele and GA genotype in patients group (A 53.5% : GA 45%) on the other hand; A positive correlation was found between IL-10 gene polymorphism and liver fibrosis ,also appositive correlation between ALT & AST, ALT & T.S. Billirubin, ALT & TNF-α, AST & T.S. Billirubin, AST & TNF-alpha, Billirubin& TNF- α with (P<0.001), A highly negative significant correlation between ALT & PLT, AST & PLT, TNF-alpha &Platelets (P<0.001)  Conclusions: Our findings suggest a possible association between IL-10(-1082 G/A) promoter polymorphism and HCV infection, which may confer a higher risk for developing HCV infection. }, keywords = {IL-10,Polymorphism,HCV}, url = {https://blj.journals.ekb.eg/article_47860.html}, eprint = {https://blj.journals.ekb.eg/article_47860_a56b3c02030a404570b86ece526e8f41.pdf} } @article { author = {Bayomy, Besheer El-Sayed and El-said, Afaf Mohammed and Said, Noha Mohamed and Ibrahim, Mona Mohammed}, title = {(Association of Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase (MTHFR) A1298C gene polymorphism with Breast Cancer in Egyptian women)}, journal = {Biochemistry Letters}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {70-79}, year = {2016}, publisher = {Zagazig University; Faculty of Science. Center of Scientific Studies and Researches}, issn = {1687-4773}, eissn = {2974-4725}, doi = {10.21608/blj.2016.47865}, abstract = {   Bachground: Methlenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) is one of the most important enzymes for folate metabolism. This enzyme is mapped on chromosome 1, The methylene tetra hydro folate reductase (MTHFR) gene is a polymorphic gene involved in folate metabolism, DNA biosynthesis, methylation and genomic integrity in actively dividing cells. The MTHFR A1298C polymorphism is likely to play an important role in the susceptibility to breast cancer. Objectives: In this case-control study, we examin the role of MTHFR A1298C polymorphism in breast cancer patients. Methods: We examined the MTHFR A1298C polymorphism in 47 women with breast cancer and 42 healthy women using PCR- RFLP method. Results: The alleles frequency of the MTHFR A1298C were 41.5% and 58.5% for A and C alleles in the breast cancer cases and 47.6% and 52.4% in the controls respectively. The genotypes frequency of the MTHFR A1298C for AA , CC and AC in breast cancer patients were 14.9% , 31.9% and 53.2% and in control subjects were 9.5%,14.3% and 76.2% respectively . There is increased risk for breast cancer under 3 models (Allellic C vs.A) ,Homozygote ( CC vs.AA) and Recessive(CC vs.AC+AA) [OR 1.282,1.429 and 2.813 respectively] . conclusion: our data suggest that the MTHFR A1298C alleles and genotypes may play arole in breast cancer susceptibility but not astrong risk factor for women with breast cancer.  Conclusions: Our findings suggest a possible association between IL-10(-1082 G/A) promoter polymorphism and HCV infection, which may confer a higher risk for developing HCV infection. }, keywords = {polymorphism- RFLP-PCR- MTHFR- breast cancer}, url = {https://blj.journals.ekb.eg/article_47865.html}, eprint = {https://blj.journals.ekb.eg/article_47865_b9dc918d14add90cb621199a58c94053.pdf} } @article { author = {EL-SHARKAWY, AHLAM and AHMED, NEVIEN M.}, title = {Neopterin as assessment marker for susceptibility of silicosis in dental technician}, journal = {Biochemistry Letters}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {80-89}, year = {2016}, publisher = {Zagazig University; Faculty of Science. Center of Scientific Studies and Researches}, issn = {1687-4773}, eissn = {2974-4725}, doi = {10.21608/blj.2016.47869}, abstract = {   Background: Dental technician expose to large amounts of crystalline silica that increase their risk of developing silicosis. Neopterin are produced upon stimulation with the cytokine interferon-γ. Neopterin is produced by activated monocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells upon stimulation by interferon gamma produced by T-lymphocytes. Neopterin production provides prognostic information in patients with autoimmune diseases. Objective: Assessment of serum neopterin, inflammatory cytokines, enzyme activities and trace elements in smokers and non smokers dental technicians and to compare them with the corresponding levels in a control group. Subjects and Methods: Serum was examined in 45 dental technician, 15 subjects as a control group and 30 subjects exposed to silica. The surveyed dental technician were divided into three groups: 1st group (control group), 2nd group (smokers dental technician) and 3rd group (non smokers dental technician). Serum neopterin, some trace elements, LDH, ALP, ACP, TNF-α, and IL-8 were determined. Result: Higher levels of neopterin were established in smokers dental technician exposed to crystalline silica (16.48 ng/ml) by comparison with non smokers dental technicians (9.85 ng/ml) and the control group (4.24 ng/ml). Significant increase in the levels of silica, calcium, copper, enzymatic activities, TNF-α, IL8 and a significant decrease in Zn levels in serum of smokers subject compared with both non smokers and control subjects. Conclusion: Research on biomarkers for silicosis is still at its nascent stage. The concentration of serum neopterin could be used as a biomarker in the diagnostic criteria for silicosis moreover it is suitable for introduction into the routine clinical laboratory practice. }, keywords = {Dental technicians,Neopterin,Silicosis,Occupational disease. Inflammatory cytokines}, url = {https://blj.journals.ekb.eg/article_47869.html}, eprint = {https://blj.journals.ekb.eg/article_47869_a5e800fa0650cc313ecb18fb2a753474.pdf} } @article { author = {Ghoneim, Tayssir and Elsaadani, Mohammed and Fawzy, Sherine}, title = {Effect of Panax ginseng on some changed biochemical parameters in alloxan-induced diabetic rats}, journal = {Biochemistry Letters}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {90-101}, year = {2016}, publisher = {Zagazig University; Faculty of Science. Center of Scientific Studies and Researches}, issn = {1687-4773}, eissn = {2974-4725}, doi = {10.21608/blj.2016.47871}, abstract = {Background: Panax ginseng root contains insulin like substances beside a mixture of saponin compounds responsible for its antioxidant activity. Objectives: The present work was carried out to investigate the effect of ginseng root extract (GRE) on some biochemical parameters in alloxan induced diabetic rats. Methods: Rats were divided into two main groups, the first group (control group) and the second group (diabetic group) in which the healthy rats were rendered diabetic, after 18 hours fasting, by a subcutaneous injection of a single dose of alloxan (120 mg/kg Body Weight “BW”). Three diabetic subgroups were treated orally with a daily dose of GRE (100 mg/kg BW) for 7, 14, and 21days, respectively. However, three subgroups were left diabetic without treatment for 7, 14, and 21 days. Results: Glucose 6- phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH) and 6-phospho-gluconate dehydrogenase (6PGDH) activities were significantly (P<0.0001) increased in the kidney extract of the diabetic rats after one week of diabetes induction. However, their activities in the liver extract were significantly decreased. Treatment of diabetic rats with GRE for 3 weeks showed restoration of the activities of G6PDH and 6PGDH in both kidney and liver. The abnormal elevations of kidney weight and the levels of glucose, glucose-6-phosphate, fructose and sorbitol in the kidney were markedly improved after treatment of diabetic rats with GRE. In addition, the level of serum glucose and potassium were significantly (p<0.0001) increased in all diabetic groups compared to control group. Conversaly, serum sodium level was decreased (hyponatreimia) in all diabetic groups. Treatment of diabetic rats with a single daily dose of GRE (100mg/BW) improved the abnormal changes of these parameters over all the periods of treatment especially after the 21 days of treatment. }, keywords = {}, url = {https://blj.journals.ekb.eg/article_47871.html}, eprint = {https://blj.journals.ekb.eg/article_47871_d7c234dcf0a6d998209dd48f036ddd64.pdf} } @article { author = {Ben Ramadan, Zakia M. and Tipton, Keith F. and El Deib, Maha M.}, title = {The Effect of the anticonvulsant (S)-2-[4-(3-Flouro-Benzyloxy) Benzylamino]- Propionamide on Monoamine Oxidase (A&B)}, journal = {Biochemistry Letters}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {102-114}, year = {2016}, publisher = {Zagazig University; Faculty of Science. Center of Scientific Studies and Researches}, issn = {1687-4773}, eissn = {2974-4725}, doi = {10.21608/blj.2016.47872}, abstract = {The effect of the potent anticonvulsant the alanine derivative (S)-2-[4-(3-flourobenzyloxy)-benzylamino] propionamide (FCE 26743) on MAO-B from ox liver mitochondria and human platelets and MAO-A & –B from Human brain mitochondria has been studied. This compound involves replacement of glycinamide of the parent (2-n-pentylamino acetamide) compound with alanine and replacement of the pentyl moiety with a phenyl ring substituted in the para-position by a 3-flouro-benzyloxy group. (FCE 26743) was not metabolized to any extent by either form of the enzyme from any of the preparations used. For human brain mitochondrial MAO-A and –B In the absence of preincubation, FCE 26743 was found to be a competitive inhibitor with the IC50 values of approx 80 μM and 0.26 ± 0.024 μM respectively. This showed FCE 26743 to be > 300 times more potent as an inhibitor of MAO-B than of MAO-A. After preincubation with FCE 26743 for 30 min at 37oC, no significant time-dependent inhibition of human brain MAO-A was found. However the degree of inhibition of MAO-B increased significantly. This was confirmed by the extended time-courses studies which showed a rather rapid increase in the degree of inhibition of MAO-B. The IC50 values for the inhibition of 5-HT and PEA oxidation after preincubation were > 80 μM and 0.079 ± 0.009 μM, for human brain MAO-A and -B, respectively FCE 26743 inhibited human platelet MAO-B before incubation with IC50 value of 0.16 ± 0.023 μM and after preincubation of FCE 26743 and the enzyme at 37oC for 30 min the IC50 value was 0.064 ± 0.014 μM. The inhibition studies with ox liver mitochondrial MAO-B indicated that without enzyme-inhibitor preincubation, the inhibition of this form of the enzyme was also competitive and shows that FCE 26743 is > 500-times more potent inhibitor for human brain MAO-B than for ox liver MAO-B. Furthermore, MAO-B from ox liver showed little or no significant time-dependent inhibition by this compound. }, keywords = {Monoamine oxidase- A and-B (MAO-A&-B),kinetics of inhibition,(S)-2-[4-(3- flourobenzyloxy)-benzylamino] propionamide,(FCE 26743),Inhibition Studies}, url = {https://blj.journals.ekb.eg/article_47872.html}, eprint = {https://blj.journals.ekb.eg/article_47872_67ce41a09b84105573ed2e66a6189c42.pdf} } @article { author = {Zein, Nabila and Mohamed, Enaiat K. and El Sayed, Fatma EL Zahraa}, title = {Biochemical Studies of Eucalyptus as an Antitumor in Mice}, journal = {Biochemistry Letters}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {115-129}, year = {2016}, publisher = {Zagazig University; Faculty of Science. Center of Scientific Studies and Researches}, issn = {1687-4773}, eissn = {2974-4725}, doi = {10.21608/blj.2016.47873}, abstract = {Eucalyptus camaldulensis Dehnh (Myrtaceae) is used in traditional folk medicine for the treatment of various health complications are well known. The current study aimed to investigate the antitumor efficacy of Eucalyptus camaldulensis stem bark methanol extract (ECME) against Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC) bearing Swiss albino mice. The extract was proved by chemical analysis and LD50 was determined. Then, mice were injected intraperitoneally with ECME (100mg /kg b.wt) before and after EAC inoculation, to achieve preventive and therapeutic effects daily, for 9 days. Estimating biochemical parameters of experimental mice as malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were estimated, Cytological studies on EAC cells and histopathological examination of liver and kidney tissue were carried out. Treatment with ECME decrease the level of (MDA) associated with increase in (TAC) in preventive and therapeutic groups compared to positive control group. Treatment with ECME reduced most of the pathological alterations induced by EAC cells in mice. This confirmed that ECME caused EAC cell death. The high LD50 value (1120 mg/kg) of ECME indicated its low host toxic effects. The present work indicates that ECME possess significant antitumor and antioxidant activity in vivo. Thus, E. camaldulensis may be considered as a promising resource in cancer chemotherapy. }, keywords = {IL-10,Polymorphism,HCV}, url = {https://blj.journals.ekb.eg/article_47873.html}, eprint = {https://blj.journals.ekb.eg/article_47873_72952bf5e7de26943d863cf9af555860.pdf} } @article { author = {Mohammed, Faten Z. and Gurigis, Adel A. and Abdel-Mageed, Wael S. and Nassr, Aml}, title = {Insulin sensitization via PPAR γ and glucose uptake through activation of PI3K/p-Akt signaling pathway by resveratrol in type 2 diabetic rats}, journal = {Biochemistry Letters}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {130-149}, year = {2016}, publisher = {Zagazig University; Faculty of Science. Center of Scientific Studies and Researches}, issn = {1687-4773}, eissn = {2974-4725}, doi = {10.21608/blj.2016.48169}, abstract = {Background: Increasing evidence in both experimental and clinical studies suggests that there is a close link between hyperglycemia, oxidative stress, and diabetic complications. Resveratrol a polyphenolic compound found in various natural food products. Aim: The aim of the present study was to screen insulin sensitization via PPARγ and glucose uptake through activation of PI3K/p- Akt signaling pathway by resveratrol in type 2 diabetic rats Material and methods: Four groups male adult albino rats were used in this study: Negative control, Positive control, Therapeutic group and Standard group. Results: The treatment of resveratrol significantly reduced the elevated levels of blood glucose, Total cholesterol, Triglyceride, LDL-c, Urea and Creatinine in positive control as compared with negative control. Treatment of resveratrol also reverted back the decreased levels of insulin, HDL-c, Irisin, enzymatic antioxidant (catalase and superoxide dismutase) as well as decreased level of the non-enzymatic antioxidant (reduced glutathione) in tissue extracts from different organs of diabetic rats to near normal values. Resveratrol significantly increased expression of the PPAR γ gene in adipose tissue compared to positive control. It also  regulated insulin mediated glucose uptake in adipose tissue through activation of PI3K/p-Akt signaling pathway. PPARγ gene showed many different expressions for other side the PPARγ sequences from the adipose tissue confirm there is a mutation with the gene isolated from positive control against therapeutic group, meaning the Type 2 diabetes cause a mutation in the gene sequencing compared to negative control. Hence, we find the opposite with the PPARγ sequencing in therapeutic group. Conclusion: These results clearly suggest that the resveratrol has an antioxidant effects and could improve adipose tissue insulin sensitivity and maintain glucose homeostasis in adipose tissue. }, keywords = {Type 2 Diabetes,Resveratrol,Akt,PPAR γ,PI3K,Irisin}, url = {https://blj.journals.ekb.eg/article_48169.html}, eprint = {https://blj.journals.ekb.eg/article_48169_8c6f7795f91502c7facbe10bf9b57293.pdf} } @article { author = {El-Khashab, Khaled A. E. and Hamdy, Soha M. and Tamam, Gamal H. and Soliman, Sahar M. and Rady, Asmaa A. M.}, title = {The Influence of C936T Gene Polymorphism of the vascular endothelial growth factor and biochemical variants for Alpha-Fetoprotein in hepatocellular carcinoma Patients in Egypt}, journal = {Biochemistry Letters}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {200-219}, year = {2016}, publisher = {Zagazig University; Faculty of Science. Center of Scientific Studies and Researches}, issn = {1687-4773}, eissn = {2974-4725}, doi = {10.21608/blj.2016.48187}, abstract = {H e p a t o c e l l u l a r c a r c i n o m a ( H C C ) is one of the most frequent malignant tumors. It is important to detect disease and recurrence at its earlier period. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of the C936T polymorphism of the VEGF And Alfa feto-Protein (AFP) on Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) and control groups .Also, Estimation of serum AFP and correlation with other parameters. 25 patients with HCV, 25 patients with confirmed HCC and 25 healthy volunteers were subjected to abdominal ultrasonography, AFP and VEGF were assessed. The result has showed that Serum level of AFP was significantly higher in HCC group when compared with control group and There was a non significant increase in serum (AFP) level in the untreated HCV infected group compared to control group and also there was a non significant increase in serum (AFP) activity in the HCC group compared to untreated HCV infected group with a (P value = 0.203). the influence of the C936T }, keywords = {AFP,HCC,HCV,VEGF}, url = {https://blj.journals.ekb.eg/article_48187.html}, eprint = {https://blj.journals.ekb.eg/article_48187_abcb3fe57ac3bcad080585719f75b3e8.pdf} } @article { author = {Ramadan, Zakia M. Ben and Tipton, Keith F. and El Deib, Maha M.}, title = {Kinetic Studies on the Interactions of Mitochondrial Monoamine Oxidase-B of Human and Pure Ox Liver with 2-(Benzylamino) Acetamide}, journal = {Biochemistry Letters}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {220-2322}, year = {2016}, publisher = {Zagazig University; Faculty of Science. Center of Scientific Studies and Researches}, issn = {1687-4773}, eissn = {2974-4725}, doi = {10.21608/blj.2016.48189}, abstract = {In an attempts to understand more precisely the role of monoamine oxidase (MAO-B) enzyme in the metabolism of the parent anticonvulsant 2-n-pentylaminoacetamide, the benzylamine derivative 2-benzylamino acetamide, also designated as FCE 25692, which used as a substrate and an inhibitor of MAO-B from human liver mitochondria and pure ox liver. The results obtained indicated that FCE 25692 to act as a suicide substrate with apparent Km values of 989 and 950 μM and Vmax values of 0.422 and 93.05 nMol.min-1.mg-1 for human and the purified ox liver MAO-B, respectively, in a way that can explain that it is a better substrate rather than an inhibitor for MAO-B from both species, with partitions ratios of 1062 and 2733 mol of product per mol of enzyme inactivated, for human and ox preparation, respectively. Moreover, the turnover numbers (kcat) and the kcat/Km values confirmed the fact that FCE 25692 is somewhat a better substrate for MAO-B purified from ox liver than from human liver, with kcat/Km values of 40.3 and 17.1 min- 1.mM-1, respectively. The progress curves for the inhibition of MAO-B showed that FCE 25692 has an equipotent time-dependent inhibitor of MAO-B in both preparations. It can be confirmed from the close similar inactivation constant kin and half-life values for MAO-B from both preparations; the t1/2 for the purified ox MAO-B (49.9 min) and for human MAO-B (41.9 min). Despite the fact that benzylamine is a substrate for the semicarbazide-sensitive amine oxidase (SSAO; EC 1.4.3.6), FCE 25692 was found not to be a substrate or an inhibitor for any of that enzyme from ox plasma or lung. }, keywords = {Monoamine oxidase-B (MAO-B),2-(benzylamino) acetamide}, url = {https://blj.journals.ekb.eg/article_48189.html}, eprint = {https://blj.journals.ekb.eg/article_48189_8affcb292a63a8b3631d54ba407394bc.pdf} } @article { author = {Hamdy, Soha M. and Shaaban, Amany M M and Abdel Latif, Abdel Karim M and Abd- Elazeez, Ayman M and Amin, Alshimaa M}, title = {Protective Effect Of Hesperidin And Tiger Nut Against Acrylamide Toxicity In Female Rats}, journal = {Biochemistry Letters}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {168-185}, year = {2016}, publisher = {Zagazig University; Faculty of Science. Center of Scientific Studies and Researches}, issn = {1687-4773}, eissn = {2974-4725}, doi = {10.21608/blj.2016.48190}, abstract = {protection against several diseases among humans. This study was carried out to evaluate the efficacy of hesperidin and tiger nut against the changes that may be related to the toxicity of acrylamide in female rats. 72 adult Sprague Dawley female rats were divided equally into six groups: control group (I); hesperidin (HES) treated group (II); tiger nut (TN) treated group (III); Acrylamide (ACR) treated group (IV); HES-ACR treated group (V); and TN-ACR treated group (VI). The treatments were daily administered for 4 months. There was a significant increase in the levels of serum carcino-embryonic antigen (CEA), malondialdehyde (MDA), protein carbonyls (CO), ALT, AST and LDH, while significant decreases of body weights and reduced glutathione (GSH) level and superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (Cat) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities of ACR treated group compared with the control. Also, many histopathological changes that observed in liver tissue in ACR group were regressed after HES or TN treatment. In conclusion, our results suggested that supplementation of a diet with hesperidin provided antioxidant defense more significant than tiger nut against the toxicity of ACR in the liver tissue.   }, keywords = {acrylamide,Hesperidin,tiger nut,Oxidative Stress,histopathology}, url = {https://blj.journals.ekb.eg/article_48190.html}, eprint = {} } @article { author = {Hamdy, Soha M. and Sayed, Ola N. and Abdel Latif, Abdel Karim M and Abd-Elazeez, Ayman M and Amin, Alshimaa M}, title = {Protective Effect Of Hesperidin And Tiger Nut Against DMBA Carcinogenicity In Female Rats}, journal = {Biochemistry Letters}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {150-167}, year = {2016}, publisher = {Zagazig University; Faculty of Science. Center of Scientific Studies and Researches}, issn = {1687-4773}, eissn = {2974-4725}, doi = {10.21608/blj.2016.48192}, abstract = {Nutritional studies recommend the regular consumption of fruits and vegetables to favor a healthy quality of life. This study was carried out to evaluate the efficacy of hesperidin and tiger nut against the carcinogenic activity of DMBA in female rats. 72 adult Sprague Dawley female rats were divided equally into six groups: control group (I); hesperidin (HES) treated group (II); tiger nut (TN) treated group (III); DMBA treated group (IV); HES-DMBA treated group (V); and TN-DMBA treated group (VI). There was a significant increase in the levels of serum total sialic acid (TSA), progesterone (Prog) and estradiol (E2), and significant decreases of body weights and reduced glutathione (GSH) level and superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities of DMBA treated group compared with the control. Histopathological observations of mammary gland showed that only female rats of DMBA and TN-DMBA treated groups showed breast cancer, while there was no evidence of malignancy in HES-DMBA treated group. In conclusion, our results suggested that supplementation of a diet with hesperidin provided antioxidant defense with chemoprotective activity more significant than tiger nut against the toxicity of DMBA in breast tissue. }, keywords = {DMBA,Hesperidin,tiger nut,breast cancer,histopathology}, url = {https://blj.journals.ekb.eg/article_48192.html}, eprint = {https://blj.journals.ekb.eg/article_48192_be6ffb3dddc1cb7542395f9e767bc596.pdf} } @article { author = {Kh., El-Dawy, and Riad, Rowida, M. and El Deib, Maha M. and Rashad, Dena M.}, title = {EFFECTS OF THE ANABOLIC STEROID, NANDROLONE-DECANOATE ON REPRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF MALE RABBITS}, journal = {Biochemistry Letters}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {186-199}, year = {2016}, publisher = {Zagazig University; Faculty of Science. Center of Scientific Studies and Researches}, issn = {1687-4773}, eissn = {2974-4725}, doi = {10.21608/blj.2016.48193}, abstract = {Nandrolone decanoate (ND) is one of the most commonly abused anabolic-androgenic steroid compounds in the world. Owing to the abuse of ND among rabbit breeders to increase body weight together with the shortage in studies that deal with ND administration in rabbits, the present study was designed to evaluate the effects of ND on reproductive performance of rabbits. Four groups of adult male rabbits were used; the first one was control, while other groups were injected with ND in two different doses at day one and at day 15 of the experimental period (8 weeks). The obtained results cleared that ND had, in general, dose-dependent harmful effects. Administration of ND led to significant decrease of rabbit body weight; arrested spermatogenesis that was accompanied by sever reduction of inseminated spermatozoa and their motility reached to oligospermia; reduction of seminal plasma biomarkers, alkaline phosphatase and fructose; and markedsuppression of testicular gene expressions,androgen receptor(AR) andcytochrome P450(CYP3A6)genes. It could be concluded that ND administration, specifically in high dose, is not recommended for use as an anabolic in male rabbit breeding. Further studies are needed to determine ND tissue residues and safety limits for use. }, keywords = {Anabolic steroid,body weight,Semen evaluation,Real time PCR, androgen receptor (AR)gene, Cytochrome P450( CYP3A6) gene,Seminal plasma biomarkers,Rabbit}, url = {https://blj.journals.ekb.eg/article_48193.html}, eprint = {https://blj.journals.ekb.eg/article_48193_23b20f88d24be4c7a4b272e9d2537ff4.pdf} } @article { author = {Zahran, Faten and A.F, Abdel Aziz, and Hamdy, Mai}, title = {Anti-tumor activity of some pyrazoline derivatives}, journal = {Biochemistry Letters}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {233-248}, year = {2016}, publisher = {Zagazig University; Faculty of Science. Center of Scientific Studies and Researches}, issn = {1687-4773}, eissn = {2974-4725}, doi = {10.21608/blj.2016.48194}, abstract = {Background: Pyrazolines are heterorcycles that attracted considerable attention in the design of biologically active molecules , possess abroad spectrum of biological effective - ness including anticancer activities act as alkaylating agents in the chemotherapy of cancer., Changes instructureof pyrazoline derivatives offered a high degree of diversity as they are useful for the development of new therapeutic agents improved in potency and lesser toxicity, Aim: The main objective of the present study is to evaluate the chemotherapeutic effects of some novel substituted pyrazoline compounds against animal carcinogesis. Materials & Methods: The synthesized pyrazoline deriva-tives were characterized by IR spectroscopy, and then their effects on Ehrlich Carcinoma were studied by evaluation their antitumor activity (viability of tumor cells, and life span prolongation), and estimation of (Malondialdehyde ,Nitric oxide, Total antioxidant capacity levels and activities of Superoxide Dismutase , and Arginase) Results: Pyrazoline derivatives showed a significant reduction in the volume and count of Ehrlich cells. Also,they suggested potential antioxidant activity by elevation superoxide dismutase, Total Antioxidant capacity, and reduction of Malondialdehyde, Nitric oxide, and Arginase. Conclusion: The activities of synthesized pyrazoline compounds have potent antitumor, antioxidant, and decrease the survival of cancer cells. }, keywords = {Pyrazoline deivatives,Cancer,antioxidant}, url = {https://blj.journals.ekb.eg/article_48194.html}, eprint = {https://blj.journals.ekb.eg/article_48194_a1a19f2a6edc8c3713e6d86231cb7b94.pdf} } @article { author = {Fekry, Reda M. and Keshta, Akaber T. and Nawara, Shimaa R.}, title = {Therapeutic Effects of Resveratrol and Baicalein on Hepatocellular Carcinoma Induced In Rats}, journal = {Biochemistry Letters}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {249-258}, year = {2016}, publisher = {Zagazig University; Faculty of Science. Center of Scientific Studies and Researches}, issn = {1687-4773}, eissn = {2974-4725}, doi = {10.21608/blj.2016.48196}, abstract = {Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), one of the most common cancers in the world, is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Resveratrol (RSV) and Baicalein (BE) are naturally derived polyphenolic compounds showed promising chemo-preventive effects against cancer. Aim: The present study aims to investigate the antioxidant activity of RSV and/or BE against induced HCC in rats. Methods: 48 Swiss male adult albino rats were divided into 6 groups: Group I served as a negative control injected intraperitoneally (I.P) with sterile saline; Group II were injected I.P with (0.25%) Dimethylsulphoxide (DMSO); Group III were injected I.P with Diethylnitrosamine (DEN) (200 mg/kg.bw) once; Group IV injected by DEN then treated with BE (20 mg/kg.bw) I.P for 10 consecutive days; Group V injected by DEN then treated with RSV (2.5 mg/kg.bw) orally for consecutive 10 days; Group VI injected by DEN then treated with BE and RSV. Plasma was collected for some biochemical studies and different antioxidant assays. Results: DEN-induced HCC that manifested by a significant drop in antioxidants levels, alterations in liver functions, and induced- inflammation. While, treatment with RSV and/or BE ameliorated liver injury by decreasing (alanine transferase (ALT), aspartate transferase (AST) activities, and Galectin-3 (Gal-3) levels. Also, they reversed the oxidative stress by the reduction of malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitric oxide (NO) levels and restoration of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione-S-transferase (GST) activities, and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels. They decreased interlukin-6 (IL-6) levels. These data suggested that RSV or BE exhibited a significant role against HCC, which  might be related to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Conclusions: Although combined treatment with RSV and BE significantly exerting a potential therapeutic effects, individual administration was more effective in HCC treatment. These novel findings suggested that RSV and BE have an antagonistic effect suggesting concerted efforts are needed to identify the most optimal combinatorial strategies. }, keywords = {Baicalein,Resveratrol,antioxidants,galectin-3,Hepatocellular carcinoma}, url = {https://blj.journals.ekb.eg/article_48196.html}, eprint = {https://blj.journals.ekb.eg/article_48196_e76d546a455ab59471eb46c99d285a2e.pdf} } @article { author = {Ramadan, Zakia Ben and Tipton, Keith and khater, Safaa}, title = {Interactions of Monoamine Oxidase from Human And Rat Liver Mitochondria with (S)-2-[4-(3-Flouro-Benzyloxy)-Benzylamino]-Propionamide}, journal = {Biochemistry Letters}, volume = {12}, number = {1}, pages = {259-274}, year = {2016}, publisher = {Zagazig University; Faculty of Science. Center of Scientific Studies and Researches}, issn = {1687-4773}, eissn = {2974-4725}, doi = {10.21608/blj.2016.48197}, abstract = {Background:The interactions of the anticonvulsant (S)-2-[4- (3-Flouro-Benzyloxy) Benzylamino]- Propionamide (FCE 26743) with MAO-A and MAO -B from human and rat liver mitochondria has been studied. Objective: This compound is an alanine derivative that differs from the parent anticonvulsant compound, 2-n-pentylamino acetamide in that alaninamide residue replaces the glycinamide moiety, and in the presence of a phenyl ring substituted in the para-position by a 3-flouro-benzyloxy group. Results: The results indicated that, The Ki values for rat and human MAO-A were > 1000 times higher than their corresponding values for rat and human MAO-Consistent with the IC50values that showed this compound to be > 1000 times more potent as an inhibitor of MAO-B than of MAO-A of the same species. There was an increase in the strength of inhibition when MAO-B was incubated with this compound. This was confirmed by the extended time-courses studies which showed a rather rapid increase in the degree of inhibition of MAO-B, despite incubation being continued for a total of 4h. This is consistent with FCE 26743 being a reversible inhibitor for MAO-A and a slow- binding reversible inhibitor of MAO-B.FCE 26743 was found to be a time-independent weak inhibitor of MAO-A from both rat and human preparations. However, there was a significant difference in the inhibitory potency of FCE 26743 with MAO-B from the two species, the Ki value for rat MAO-B was about two times higher than that for human MAOB. Conclusion: The FCE 26743 was not metabolized (in vitro) by either human or rat liver mitochondrial MAO-A or -B. Without enzyme-inhibitor preincubation FCE 26743 was found to be a competitive inhibitor of both MAO-A and MAO-B from rat and human liver mitochondria. }, keywords = {Monoamine oxidase-A and-B (MAO-A& MAO -B),kinetics of inhibition,(S)-2-[4-(3-flourobenzyloxy)- benzylamino] propionamide,(FCE 26743),Inhibition Studies}, url = {https://blj.journals.ekb.eg/article_48197.html}, eprint = {https://blj.journals.ekb.eg/article_48197_a339b67aaaef740f8604cbc169b046df.pdf} }