Biobacta Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Society of Pathological Biochemistry and Hematology (SPBH)
Effect of Boswellia gum and cinnamaldehyde on diabetes induced in male albino rats
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a Chronic metabolic state characterized by hyperglycemia originating from poor insulin production, insulin resistance, or a combination of both. Oxidative stress and inflammation significantly contribute to diabetes etiology and complications. The purpose of this study was to investigate the antidiabetic Boswellia gum and cinnamaldehyde in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic male albino rats. Both compounds are recognized for their anti-inflammatory effects, antioxidant, and glucose-lowering properties. Forty-two male albino rats with an average weight of 120-150 g were divided into 6 groups (n=7) and treated with Boswellia gum, cinnamaldehyde, or both, following diabetes induction by STZ. Biochemical parameters such as blood glucose, lipid profile, and liver and kidney function markers were assessed, in addition to histopathological examination of pancreatic tissue. The results demonstrated that both Boswellia gum and cinnamaldehyde significantly reduced blood glucose levels and improved lipid profile and liver enzymes, with enhanced effects observed in the combination group. Histological analysis supported the biochemical findings. These results suggest that both agents exhibit protective and therapeutic potential against diabetes-related metabolic alterations.
Boswellia serrata, Cinnamaldehyde, Type 2 Diabetes mellitus, Albino Rats, Antioxidants, Metformin
Prevalence and Hematological Profile of Anemia of Chronic Disease in Asthmatic Patients: A Case-Control Study
Background: Asthma is a widespread chronic respiratory condition linked to substantial illness and, in severe instances, life-threatening complications. Anemia of Chronic Disease (ACD) commonly occurs in diseases marked by systemic inflammation, such as asthma. However, the precise role of ACD in asthma and its biological basis remains poorly understood. Objective: This study aimed to examine the serum iron status in Sudanese individuals with asthma and investigate the potential link between asthma and ACD. Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional case-control design was employed, involving 240 subjects—120 individuals diagnosed with bronchial asthma and 120 healthy controls. Key parameters assessed included serum iron, ferritin, total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), hemoglobin concentration, and transferrin saturation. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 26, utilizing independent t-tests and multiple linear regression techniques. Results: Compared to healthy controls, asthma patients showed significantly reduced levels of serum iron, hemoglobin, and saturation percentage (p < 0.001), while ferritin concentrations were significantly elevated (p < 0.001). The prevalence of anemia among the asthma group was 80%, predominantly ACD. Regression analysis demonstrated a strong inverse correlation between ferritin and serum iron (r = -1.776, p < 0.001). Conclusion: The findings indicate a high rate of ACD among asthmatic individuals, suggesting a possible causal relationship. Routine anemia screening in asthma patients is advised to support early diagnosis and management. Further investigations are required to clarify the pathophysiological mechanisms connecting asthma and ACD.
How Pantoea can help solve modern agriculture problems: A Review
Modern agriculture is challenged by soil degradation, nutrient depletion, plant diseases, and excessive dependence on chemical fertilizers and pesticides. By examining different strains of Pantoea, the study highlights their role in promoting plant growth, improving their tolerance to stress, reducing reliance on synthetic agricultural inputs, and contributing to more sustainable and environmentally friendly agricultural practices. Using a combination of practical qualitative methods and reliable quantitative data, the research gathers extensive information on how these microbes impact various crops and key soil health indicators. The improvements in plant growth statistics and nutrient levels are often quite astonishing. The results generally suggest that Pantoea ramps up crop productivity and helps revitalize the soil, offering a promising alternative to traditional farming methods that sometimes hurt our ecosystem. These findings gently underscore the value of weaving biological solutions into everyday agriculture, with Pantoea hinting at a greener and more sustainable future. We have found that the use of Pantoea as a biofertilizer is consistent with broader public health goals by promoting healthy diets, reducing chemical pollution, and caring for the environment. This review aims to explore the potential of Pantoea bacteria as biofertilizers and biocontrol agents to address critical challenges in modern agriculture, such as soil degradation, crop disease management, and sustainable yield enhancement. The key issue under investigation is the effectiveness of Pantoea species in enhancing plant growth and resilience while reducing reliance on chemical inputs. This requires collecting qualitative and quantitative data on the effects of Pantoea on different crops, soil health indicators, and market acceptance.
Berberine, a natural plant product, Inhibits Cell Growth in Human Cancer cells compared with healthy cells
Berberine, an isoquinoline derivative alkaloid, has recently been shown to have cytotoxicity and antitumor activity. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of Berberine at different concentrations (400, 200, 100, 50, 25µg/ml) on cell culture (PA-1:ovary derived from metastatic site, PC-3:Prostate cancer cell line, A375:skin cancer cell line, and WRL-68: human hepatic normal cell, by cytotoxicity and DNA damage, through MTT assay and alkaline comet assay. The results of cytotoxicity showed that berberine induced a decrease in the viability of PA-1: ovary-derived compared with the WRL-68: human hepatic normal cell at 400 and 200 µg/ml of berberine. And indicated that tail length, tail DNA%, and Tail mean moment were significantly different in different concentrations of berberine at 400, 200 µg/ml, when compared with the control non-treatment. These results suggest that berberine can reduce DNA damage and cytotoxicity.
Effect of Tribulus Terrestris Extract on male mice with Cyclophosphamide
Background: This study explores the protective effect of Tribulus terrestris, a well-known medicinal plant traditionally used to enhance physical strength and reproductive health, against liver and reproductive damage caused by Cyclophosphamide, a chemotherapeutic agent. Method: In the experiment, male albino mice were divided into four groups. The first group (control) received only distilled water. The second group was injected with Cyclophosphamide alone. The third group received only the Tribulus terrestris extract, while the fourth group received Cyclophosphamide followed by treatment with the plant extract for 14 days. At the end of the experiment, blood samples were collected to measure liver enzymes (ALT, AST, ALP) and testosterone levels. Histological examination of liver and testis tissues was also performed. Results: The results showed that the group treated only with Cyclophosphamide had significantly high levels of liver enzymes, indicating liver damage, along with a sharp drop in testosterone levels, reflecting reproductive toxicity. In contrast, the group treated with Tribulus terrestris alone showed normal enzyme levels and healthy testosterone values, indicating the safety of the plant and its potential benefits. Most importantly, the group that received both Cyclophosphamide and the plant extract showed notable improvement. Although the levels were not fully restored to normal, liver enzyme levels decreased, and testosterone levels increased compared to the Cyclophosphamide-only group, suggesting that the plant extract provided partial protection against the drug's harmful effects. Conclusion: Tribulus terrestris extract demonstrated promising hepatoprotective and fertility-supporting properties in this experimental model. It could potentially be used as a natural supplement to reduce the side effects of chemotherapy drugs like Cyclophosphamide.
Isolation of Glycosylated Flavonoid from Ruta graveolens and study its effect on Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Background: A large number of natural compounds have been demonstrated to have cancer chemopreventive activity and healing due to their strong antioxidant and cytotoxic activities. Objective: The present study investigates the effect of encapsulation of rutin with carboxymethyl chitosan against N-Nitrosodiethylamine (Di-ethylnitrosamine) (DENA)-induced and carbon tetrachloride-promoted Hepatocellular carcinoma in male Wistar rats. Materials and Methods: Fifty male Wistar rats were divided into two major groups. Group I serves as control; Group II was induced HCC by DENA (200mg/kg b.wt) followed by carbon tetrachloride (3ml/kg subcutaneously) for 6 weeks. Group II was divided into four subgroups. Subgroup I (induced subgroup), which took DENA+CCL4, was only then injected with DMSO. Subgroup II (rutin subgroup) rats induced by DENA+CCL4 then injected with rutin at a dose of 20mg/kg b.w. I.p three times a week. Subgroup III (carboxymethyl chitosan subgroup) rats induced by DENA+CCL4 then injected with carboxymethyl chitosan at a dose of 13.5mg/kg b.w. I.p thee times a week. Subgroup IV (CMC+Rutin subgroup) rats were induced by DENA+CCL4, then injected with the combination at a dose of 16mg/kg b.w. I.P. three times a week. Results: Observed that there was a significant increase in liver marker enzymes (ALT P<0.001), (AST P<0.087), (ALP P=0.004) and (Albumin P=0.003), tumor marker enzymes (AFP, CEA at P<0.001), kidney function (creatinine P=0.001) and antioxidant activities have no significant values. Conclusion: The results suggested that encapsulation of rutin in carboxymethyl chitosan enhances the effect of rutin against tumor cells.
HCC, Rutin graveolens, carboxymethyl chitosan, Di-ethylnitrosamine
Pyrrolizidine Alkaloids Content and Antioxidant Activity of Two Heliotropium Species from Basrah - Southern Iraq
Background: Heliotropium species (Boraginaceae) have long been used in traditional medicine, yet their antioxidant properties remain underexplored. This study investigates and compares the antioxidant activity of two species—H. curassavicum (a newly recorded species in Iraq) and H. crispum—collected from Basrah, Iraq. Methodology: Whole plants of H. curassavicum and H. crispum were collected, shade-dried, and ground into coarse powder. Methanolic maceration was performed over 5 days. The crude extracts were analyzed for PA content using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Antioxidant activity of the extracts and isolated heliotrine was evaluated using in vitro assays: Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC), DPPH radical scavenging assay, and Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP). Ascorbic acid served as the standard for comparison. Two-fold serial dilutions (50–800 µg/ml) were used in the antioxidant assays. Results: The TAC of H. crispum (0.413 mg AAE/g) was higher than that of H. curassavicum (0.191 mg AAE/g). Heliotrine exhibited strong antioxidant activity in DPPH (29.36%–62.92%) with an IC₅₀ of 151.40 µg/ml and good reducing capacity in FRAP assays (0.36–3.67 FRP) across concentrations of 50–800 µg/ml, comparable to ascorbic acid (31.52%–77.24%, IC₅₀ = 137.17 µg/ml). Statistical analysis revealed no significant differences between heliotrine and ascorbic acid across all concentrations tested (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Both H. crispum and H. curassavicum demonstrated notable antioxidant activity, with H. crispum exhibiting higher TAC. Heliotrine displayed strong scavenging and reducing power, comparable to ascorbic acid, supporting the medicinal potential of these species and encouraging further pharmacological exploration.
DPPH assay, Heliotropium curassavicum, HPLC, Pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), Total antioxidants capacity (TAC)
Evaluation of the anti-cancer properties of green zinc nanoparticles from Tamarix aphylla extract against the MCF-7 breast adenocarcinoma cell line
Background: Plants play a crucial role in the treatment and prevention of cancer and various illnesses worldwide, as they contain active biomedical compounds. Additionally, they possess essential chemicals for the green Synthesis of Nano-Sized particles. The advantageous impact of Zinc nanoparticles (ZnNPs) derived from Tamarix aphylla (TA) leaves has not been thoroughly investigated against cancers, especially breast adenocarcinoma, which has the highest prevalence among women. Aim: In this study, we use zinc nanoparticles prepared from T. aphylla leaves methanolic extracts (TAME) to evaluate the antioxidant and anticancer potential against DPPH and breast adenocarcinoma cell line (MCF-7), respectively. Methods: Different ratios of ZnNO3 and Tamarix methanolic extract (2:1, 4:1, 6:1, 8:1, 10:1) were incubated at 25Co and monitored for discoloration. The samples turned brown after 10 minutes, indicating ZnNPs production in the solutions. Results: The current study demonstrated significant differences (P<0.05) of (TAME), as assessed through both antioxidant (DPPH test) and anticancer (MCF-7) evaluations, when compared to normal controls. Conclusion: In summary, the contemporary method of utilizing green-sourced nanoparticles diminishes the adverse effects of chemotherapy while enhancing the anticancer and antioxidant efficacy of plant extracts. Finally, extensive studies are required to confirm the pharmaceutical manipulation and clinical application of this product.
Anticancer, Cell line, Nanoparticles, Tamarix aphylla, and zinc
The Multifaceted Role of Vitamin D: From Synthesis to Clinical Implications
Vitamin D, a secosteroid hormone pivotal to numerous physiological processes, has garnered extensive attention due to its dual origin from sunlight exposure and dietary intake. Structurally characterized by its cholesterol-derived backbone, vitamin D exists primarily as ergocalciferol (D2) and cholecalciferol (D3), with serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] levels between 30–100 ng/mL considered optimal for health. Beyond its classical role in calcium homeostasis and bone mineralization, emerging research underscores its immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and metabolic functions. Deficiencies, prevalent globally, correlate with pathologies ranging from osteoporosis to cardiovascular diseases, while toxicity, though rare, poses risks of hypercalcemia. This review synthesizes current knowledge on vitamin D’s synthesis, mechanisms, diagnostic approaches, and therapeutic strategies, offering a comprehensive perspective on its indispensability in human health.
Assessment of Knowledge and Preventive Behaviours Regarding Cholera among School Students in Latakia, Syria
Background: Cholera remains a global health hazard and a sign of underdevelopment in many countries. Aim: This study aimed to assess the knowledge and preventive behaviours of school students towards cholera in Latakia after a recent outbreak. Method: This study used a cross-sectional design. The study included 150 participants aged 13-15 years. Data was collected from March to April 2024 at Ghassan Zwan school in Latakia. The questionnaire was developed based on previous studies. Results: Based on the percentage mean, the students’ knowledge and preventive behaviours scale would be categorized into three levels: <30% considered inadequate, 30-70% considered adequate, and >70% considered good. The majority of the participants demonstrated adequate knowledge (66.75%) and good preventive behaviour (78.91%) toward cholera. There is a difference in knowledge between male and female participants. Conclusion: enhanced knowledge and preventive behaviour levels play an essential role in reducing the prevalence rate during an outbreak. Further research on the preventive behaviours of cholera among primary school pupils is recommended.
Evaluation of quality of life after Endo-Venous Radio-Frequency Ablation Procedure for the treatment of varicose vein
Backgrounds: Varicose veins are a common medical condition characterized by the dilation and tortuosity of the superficial venous system, primarily affecting the lower extremities. Aim: The study investigates the quality of life and the side effects experienced by patients undergoing varicose vein surgeries. Methods: a sample size of 130 patients. Data were collected during the first week post-surgery and after 30 days for some side effects and for one year for other side effects, employing statistical analysis through SPSS and Excel for visual representation. Results: The findings reveal significant changes in various health indicators over time, including paresthesia, occlusion, recurrence, redness, skin changes, thrombophlebitis, and ecchymosis. The study also found a decrease in patient satisfaction and quality of life over the study period. There were no differences in cellulitis over the study period. Discussion: The main outcomes of the Varicose Vein Surgery Study included changes in health status and the side effects of varicose vein patients over a one-year follow-up period. Conclusion: The study emphasizes the importance of continuous monitoring and improving nursing care to enhance the quality of life for patients post-surgery.
The Influence of Social Media on Type 1 Diabetes Control in Iraq: A Cross-Sectional Study
Background: Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder characterized by high blood glucose levels and inflammation, posing a significant health threat in the 21st century. Social media platforms have emerged as valuable resources for disseminating health information, enhancing management practices, and improving glycemic control, especially through prolonged patient-physician contact. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Iraq to investigate the role of social media in achieving glycemic control among T1D patients. Participants were recruited through local health centres and social media platforms. Data were collected via structured questionnaires, including demographic information, diabetes management practices, and social media usage patterns. Glycemic control was assessed using HbA1c levels. Results: The mean age of the patients was 19.8 ± 9.9 years, with a slight female predominance. WhatsApp was the most commonly used social media platform (utilized by 279 patients), followed by Facebook (272 patients). Of the total cohort, 77% (286 patients) used social media in addition to private clinic visits, while 23% (85 patients) did not. A decrease in HbA1c levels was observed in 292 patients, with 250 achieving target levels. The majority of patients (226) had a physician-patient contact duration of over one year. Conclusion: The findings of our study suggest that social media can support diabetes management as well as improve glycemic control. The accessibility of information and peer support on these platforms can enhance patient engagement and adherence to treatment protocols. Further research is recommended to explore the long-term impacts of social media use on patient adherence and diabetes outcomes.
Understanding Kidney Health: Physiology, Diagnostic Markers, and Pathological Conditions
The kidney is a vital organ responsible for several essential functions, including waste elimination, fluid and electrolyte balance, blood pressure regulation, and hormone production. Structurally, it consists of the cortex and medulla, with nephrons as the fundamental functional units responsible for plasma filtration and homeostasis maintenance. The kidney plays a crucial role in metabolic processes, with glomerular filtration rate (GFR) as a key indicator of renal function. Various biochemical markers, such as blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, uric acid, sodium, and potassium, are used to assess kidney health and diagnose potential disorders. Kidney stone formation, a common disorder, results from the supersaturation of minerals in urine, leading to different types of calculi such as calcium oxalate, uric acid, and struvite stones. Advanced diagnostic techniques, including imaging and biochemical assays, aid in assessing kidney health and guiding treatment strategies. Understanding kidney physiology and pathology is crucial for the early detection, management, and prevention of renal diseases.
Interleukin-6 levels in early and late rheumatoid arthritis: their comparison and correlation with clinical and laboratory indicators of disease activity.
Background: An inflammatory condition called rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is characterized by persistent inflammation that damages the cartilage and joints. It can result in different levels of osteoarthritis and cause varying degrees of disability and it has been discovered that RA is significantly influenced by interleukin-6 (IL-6). As demonstrated by numerous clinical studies, Tocilizumab, a humanized anti-IL-6 receptor monoclonal antibody, and the first-in-class IL-6 inhibitor, has demonstrated exceptional efficacy in RA. Aim: We aimed to evaluate the level of IL-6 for prediction, diagnosis, and staging for rheumatoid arthritis patients, and reducing joint discomfort and swelling is the main goal of rheumatoid arthritis treatment. Material and methods: The study included 105 patients (aged 20 – 74 yr) divided into three groups. Group I: Involved 30 healthy controls, Group II: involved 15 patients with early RA, and Group III: involved 60 patients with late RA. Routine clinical tests such as Alt, Ast, Creatinine, Urea, Tlc, Hgb, Plt, RF, ESR, and CRP were assayed for all patients. In addition, serum Interleukin-6 levels were quantified using sandwich ELISA. The absolute values of investigated markers were statistically analyzed using the SPSS program. Results: The mean IL-6 level was (8.75 ± 0.56 pg/ml), (17.76 ± 5.32 pg/ml) and (32.71 ± 10.08 pg/ml) for G1, G2 and G3 respectively. Our study found the levels of IL-6 in the serum of patients with late RA and early RA were extremely significant than the normal group (p=0.0001) Conclusion: IL-6 has a greater sensitivity and specificity than other inflammatory markers, making it useful for early detection of RA.
Epidemiological and Clinical Study of Crimean–Congo Hemorrhagic Fever in Cattle and Humans in Maysan Province, Southern Iraq
Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a serious tick-borne zoonotic disease with significant public health concerns, particularly in regions like Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. In Iraq, sporadic outbreaks have been reported since 1979. This study examines the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of CCHF in humans and livestock in Maysan Province, Southern Iraq, focusing on the connection between human and cattle infections. The study utilized a retrospective approach, analyzing 34 human cases and 45 cattle infections through hospital records, patient interviews, and serological tests (ELISA). Results showed a higher prevalence among females (61.76%), with housewives being the most affected group (55.88%). Fever, body pain, and hemorrhagic symptoms were common. Cases peaked between May and August, mainly in Amarah District. In cattle, 84.44% tested positive for IgG antibodies, indicating past exposure, and 15.56% for IgM antibodies, suggesting recent infections. Tick density was notably higher in communal grazing areas, correlating with human infection hotspots. The study concludes that CCHF remains a significant threat in Maysan Province due to ecological and human-livestock interactions. Preventive strategies, including surveillance, public education, and tick control, are critical for reducing disease transmission. Further research is recommended to explore environmental and livestock roles in disease dynamics.
Role of Vitamin D in Diabetes Mellitus: A Review
Diabetes mellitus (DM) also known as simply diabetes, is a group of metabolic diseases in which there are high blood sugar levels over a prolonged period This high blood sugar produces the symptoms of frequent urination, increased thirst, and increased hunger. Untreated, diabetes can cause many complications. Acute complications include diabetic ketoacidosis and nonketotic hyperosmolar coma. Other complications of diabetes are retinopathy, nephropathy, and neuropathy. There are three main types of diabetes mellitus: Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus, and Gestational Diabetes Mellitus. The human body is continuously exposed to different types of agents that result in the production of reactive species called free radicals (ROS/RNS) which cause the oxidation of cellular machinery. To encounter the deleterious effects of such species, the body has endogenous antioxidant systems or it obtains exogenous antioxidants from the diet that neutralizes such species and keeps the homeostasis of the body. Any imbalance between the RS and antioxidants leads to a condition known as oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is increased in metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes mellitus Increased oxidative stress appears to be a deleterious factor leading to insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, β-cell dysfunction, impaired glucose tolerance and ultimately leading to T2DM. Approximately 30%-50% of people are recognized to have low levels of vitamin D, and insufficiency and deficiency of vitamin D are recognized as global health problems worldwide. Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to the onset and progression of DM. The link of vitamin D with insulin insensitivity or abnormal glucose metabolism gained much more scientific attention in the last decade. Several observations or associations were cited exploring the possible role of altered vitamin D status and its metabolites or altered insulin sensitivity in the pathogenesis of diabetes. The basic aim of this review was to summarize the basics of oxidative stress in diabetes mellitus and avoid it through Vit D administration.
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In SITU HYBRIDIZATION and immunohistochemical technique for Epstein- Barr Virus (EBV) detection in Misan province breast cancer women
Breast cancer continues to be the most common malignancy and the primary cause of cancer-related mortality among women globally. Although conventional risk factors inadequately account for a considerable number of cases, recent findings associate viral infections, particularly Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), with the onset and advancement of breast cancer. This research examines the existence and function of EBV in breast cancer among women in Misan Province, Iraq. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) and chromogenic in situ hybridization (CISH) were employed to analyze 70 formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded breast tissue blocks, comprising 45 malignant and 25 non-malignant samples. The results indicated a prevalent incidence of invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) (93.3%) among malignant cases, with EBV EBER RNA signals identified in 62% of breast cancer samples against 10% in controls, demonstrating statistically significant differences (p < 0.04). Nuclear brown staining indicative of EBV was identified in 68% of cancer tissues using IHC. The data indicate a possible correlation between EBV infection and breast cancer, underscoring the necessity for additional research into its oncogenic mechanisms and implications for preventative and treatment approaches.
Study the Potential Role of Black cohosh Extract on Cancer Treatment
Background: International scientific recognition has recently been given to the use of phytochemicals to avoid major health problems. Research on pharmacological processes and the search for chemical structures of plant extracts with anticancer activities aroused interest. The Aim of work: This study was to assess the chemotherapeutic anti-tumor ability of Black cohosh extract against mammary carcinogenesis in Swiss albino mice that was generated by the implantation of Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC). Materials and techniques: Black cohosh extracts were evaluated for their effectiveness against EAC by tracking tumor weight, volume, and occurrence. Lipid peroxidation (MDA) and the biochemical oxidative stress-related profile were studied, as were the antioxidants-related profile, which included the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione reductase (GR), glutathione-s-transferase (GST), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), catalase, and CAT, as well as the hepatic and renal toxicity markers (creatinine, urea, and transaminases) and histopathological changes after treatment. The Results: The results showed that oxidative stress was reduced, antioxidant levels were raised, liver and kidney functions were restored, and tumor and neovascularization were inhibited. Conclusion: Based on all obtained data, our research suggests that treatment with Black cohosh extract offered robust antioxidant protection and chemotherapeutic efficacy against mammary tumors implanted with EAC.
Relationship between interleukin 6 and 8 with Semen characteristics in fertile patients
Infertile males were tested for the presence of interleukin-6 and interleukin-8, as well as lipid peroxidation in their sperm. A total of 75 infertile men, including 15 fertile men, were used as controls, with semen samples collected by masturbation. Malondialdehyde (MDA) production in the sperm membrane was used to assess the degree of lipid peroxidation in the membrane. Statistics were used to examine the relationship between interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interleukin-8 (IL-8) in seminal plasma and the lipid peroxidation levels in sperm membranes. There was a statistically significant difference in the concentration of IL-6 in the seminal plasma of infertile and fertile men (p 0.05) between the two groups. On the other hand, the concentration of interleukin-8 (IL-8) in the seminal plasma of infertile men was significantly higher than that of fertile men (p < 0.05), and the degree of lipid peroxidation in the seminal plasma of infertile men was significantly higher than that of fertile men (p < 0.05). In the seminal plasma, the levels of IL-6 and the process of sperm membrane lipid peroxidation were found to be positively correlated with each other (p < 0.05), while the levels of IL-8 in the seminal plasma and sperm membrane lipid peroxidation were found to be positively correlated with each other (p < 0.05). There seems to be a possible association between plasma IL-8, IL-6, sperm ranks, and sperm membrane lipid peroxidation based on these results.
The Role of Zinc in Treating Diabetes Mellitus: A Review
Chronic hyperglycemia status noticed in diabetes mellitus favors the manifestation of oxidative stress by increasing the production of reactive oxygen species and/or by reducing the antioxidant defense system activity, some minerals are essential parts of some of the enzymes for their biological activities. Diabetes mellitus is a disease of metabolic abnormality, minerals as such or as a component of enzymes may play a significant role in developing and controlling diabetes mellitus. Amongst minerals, zinc is involved in the development and control of diabetes mellitus. Zinc has been shown to have an antioxidant potential through the nonenzymatic stabilization of biomembrane and biostructures. A recent finding indicated that there is a direct relationship between low zinc levels, greater body fat content, and insulin resistance.