Rosemary extract attenuates apoptotic effect of aspartame in liver of male rats

| Posted in: Science

Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Rosemary extract attenuates apoptotic effect of aspartame in liver of male rats
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Original source:

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Author:

Manar Salah, Samiha M. Abd El Dayem, Mahmoud M. Arafa and Nawal Zakaria Haggag


World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:

(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)

Full text available for: Rosemary extract attenuates apoptotic effect of aspartame in liver of male rats

Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research

Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20201-16584


Download the PDF file of the original publication


Summary of article contents:

Introduction

The study conducted by Salah et al. investigates the impact of rosemary extract on aspartame-induced apoptosis in the liver of male rats. Aspartame, a low-calorie artificial sweetener, has been linked to cellular toxicity through inflammatory and apoptotic pathways, potentially leading to serious effects such as cancer. In contrast, natural antioxidants like rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) are gaining attention for their protective properties against the harmful effects of synthetic substances. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of rosemary extract as an antidote to the harmful apoptotic effects associated with aspartame consumption.

Rosemary and Its Protective Mechanisms

The extract of rosemary has shown significant promise in its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which are critical in combating oxidative stress and apoptosis. The study reveals that both co-administered and sequential administration of rosemary extract leads to an improvement in the expression of apoptotic and anti-apoptotic proteins, particularly caspase-3, Bax, and Bcl-2, as well as an increase in IL-10 expression. The results indicate that rosemary effectively mitigates the pro-apoptotic effects caused by aspartame, suggesting a protective mechanism at the molecular level.

Impact of Aspartame on Cellular Processes

Aspartame’s administration was associated with a significant increase in apoptosis markers in the liver, marked by elevated caspase-3 and Bax levels, while simultaneously decreasing Bcl-2 expression. The study quantified these changes, noting a 342% increase in caspase-3 and a 193% increase in Bax, indicating that aspartame acts as a potent inducer of apoptosis through mechanisms that include the generation of free radicals and oxidative stress. Importantly, the findings underscore the cellular and molecular ramifications of aspartame consumption, raising concerns about its safety when consumed over extended periods.

Role of Oxidative Stress and Inflammation

The research highlights the link between oxidative stress and inflammation in cellular apoptosis. Specifically, it discusses how aspartame-induced oxidative stress triggers inflammatory responses through the release of cytokines such as TNF-α, which further propagate apoptotic signals. Conversely, rosemary extract not only enhances antioxidant defenses but also promotes anti-inflammatory pathways by elevating IL-10 levels, a cytokine known to inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokines. This dual functionality may play a crucial role in mitigating the damaging effects of aspartame.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the study substantiates the anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory roles of rosemary extract in countering aspartame-induced toxic effects on the liver. The findings advocate for further exploration of natural antioxidants like rosemary as viable dietary additions for those consuming artificial sweeteners. Ultimately, this research suggests that incorporating rosemary into one’s diet may provide a protective buffer against the adverse effects of substances like aspartame, promoting better health outcomes and a healthier lifestyle.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What is the main purpose of the study on rosemary extract and aspartame?

The study aims to evaluate rosemary extract's protective effects against aspartame-induced apoptosis in the liver of male rats, exploring its potential as a natural antioxidant to mitigate cellular toxicity.

How was rosemary extract administered in the experiment?

Rosemary extract was administered orally at a dose of 125 mg/kg body weight daily for two months, either co-administered, pre-administered, or post-administered in relation to aspartame treatment.

What were the effects of aspartame on liver apoptosis?

Aspartame administration significantly increased pro-apoptotic markers caspase-3 and Bax, while decreasing the anti-apoptotic marker Bcl-2, indicating enhanced apoptosis in rat liver tissue.

What changes did rosemary extract induce in apoptotic markers?

Rosemary treatment resulted in reduced expression of pro-apoptotic markers and increased expression of the anti-apoptotic marker Bcl-2, suggesting its role in anti-apoptotic mechanisms.

What role does IL-10 play in the study's context?

IL-10 is an anti-inflammatory cytokine whose elevation by rosemary extract indicates its protective effects against inflammation and apoptosis linked to aspartame toxicity.

What is the study's conclusion regarding rosemary extract?

The study concludes that rosemary extract reduces aspartame-induced apoptosis through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, suggesting it may be beneficial in a healthy lifestyle.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Rosemary extract attenuates apoptotic effect of aspartame in liver of male rats”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Study (Studying):
The term 'study' refers to the systematic investigation and analysis conducted to understand the effects of rosemary extract on aspartame-induced apoptosis in rat liver. It illustrates the scientific inquiry involving experimentation and observation, aimed at deriving conclusions regarding the protective roles of natural antioxidants against cellular damage.

2) Cancer:
Cancer is a significant focus of the study, as impaired apoptosis is linked to the development of this disease. The research highlights the potential of natural antioxidants, like rosemary, to mitigate cellular toxicity caused by aspartame, which is suspected of contributing to cancer incidence through apoptotic pathways.

3) Animal:
Animals, particularly male albino rats, serve as subjects for the experimental design. This term underscores the relevance of ethically sourced animal models in biomedical research, enabling researchers to investigate physiological and pathological processes, and specifically assess the potential benefits of natural substances like rosemary extract.

4) Disease:
Disease, in this context, specifically refers to pathologies that arise from dysfunctions in biological processes, particularly apoptosis. The study’s findings suggest that rosemary extract may counteract the detrimental effects of aspartame, thereby providing a means to combat diseases characterized by cellular toxicity and inflammation.

5) Egypt:
Egypt is pertinent as it provides the geographic and cultural context for the research, conducted by authors affiliated with institutions in Cairo. The reference to Egypt also implies potential regional implications of the findings, fostering local interest in utilizing native plants like rosemary for health purposes.

6) Family:
The term 'family' relates to the classification of rosemary within the Lamiaceae family. This categorization highlights the study's focus on plant-derived compounds, specifically those from herbs and spices, which have garnered attention for their medicinal properties, particularly their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

7) Death:
Death, particularly in the context of apoptosis, emphasizes the study’s exploration of programmed cell death processes. The research investigates how aspartame triggers apoptotic pathways in rat livers, while rosemary extract’s potential to mitigate such effects is a central theme that connects to the broader implications for cell survival.

8) Relative:
The term 'relative' appears in reference to the expression levels of apoptotic markers compared to control groups in the study. It signifies the importance of quantifying changes in gene expressions, providing a means to evaluate the efficacy of rosemary extract against aspartame-induced toxicity in a relative manner.

9) Water:
Water is used as a solvent in the extraction of rosemary leaves and as the medium for aspartame administration in the study. It highlights the importance of using bi-distilled water to ensure purity in experimental procedures, thereby minimizing confounding variables in the assessment of therapeutic effects.

10) Male:
The specification of 'male' rats within the study design underscores the need for standardization in research to reduce variability in biological responses. Focusing on male subjects helps ensure consistency in the observed effects of rosemary extract and aspartame on liver apoptosis and associated markers.

11) Inflammation:
Inflammation is a critical factor addressed in the study, indicating that aspartame may elicit inflammatory responses that contribute to cellular toxicity and apoptosis. The potential of rosemary extract to exert anti-inflammatory effects reaffirms its importance as a natural antioxidant, reducing the risk of stress-related diseases.

12) Toxicity:
Toxicity relates directly to the adverse effects of aspartame on cellular health, particularly its ability to induce apoptosis. The study aims to illuminate the protective effects of rosemary extract against such toxicity, emphasizing the role of natural compounds in mitigating harmful effects from synthetic nutritional substitutes.

13) Sam (Sham):
The term 'sham' is not explicitly mentioned in the text; however, it can imply control procedures typically used in experimental designs to ensure that observed effects result from the treatment rather than from psychological or environmental factors. In this study, controls are essential for validating the findings on rosemary and aspartame.

14) Substance:
The term 'substance' can specifically denote rosemary extract in the context of its potential health benefits. It highlights the extract's recognition as a bioactive compound capable of exerting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, thereby establishing its relevance in the search for natural remedies against synthetic-induced toxicity.

15) Education:
Education in this context pertains to the dissemination of knowledge regarding the implications of the study on health, nutrition, and the use of natural antioxidants. It suggests the need for educating the public and health professionals about the benefits of incorporating herbal remedies into dietary practices for improved well-being.

16) Activity:
Activity refers to the observed biochemical actions of rosemary extract in modulating apoptotic and anti-inflammatory markers in the study. It emphasizes the significance of analyzing how different treatments influence biological responses and the mechanisms through which natural antioxidants exert protective effects in toxicological contexts.

17) Zoology:
The term zoology relates to the study of animal biology and behavior. Given that the research involved experiments on rats, this discipline is relevant as it informs methodologies in animal research and contributes to understanding the implications of findings on broader biological and ecological systems.

18) Science (Scientific):
Science, in the context of this research, represents the systematic exploration of the biological effects of substances such as rosemary and aspartame. This term encapsulates the rigorous methodologies, analysis, and interpretations aimed at expanding our understanding of health impacts, disease mechanisms, and potential therapeutic strategies.

19) Hand:
The term 'hand' could metaphorically relate to the role humans play in using natural substances like rosemary to mitigate the effects of synthetic substances like aspartame. It underscores the active engagement of communities and researchers in harnessing nature's resources for health benefits and disease prevention.

20) Life:
Life relates to the biological processes being impacted by aspartame and potentially ameliorated by rosemary extract. The study's focus on apoptosis, inflammation, and toxicity emphasizes the broader implications of these findings on the health and longevity of living organisms, particularly in the context of dietary choices.

21) Performance:
Performance pertains to the biological responses observed in the experiments, particularly the effectiveness of rosemary extract in counteracting the apoptotic effects of aspartame. It underscores the importance of carefully measuring and assessing the outcomes of various treatments to establish clear conclusions about their efficacy.

22) Discussion:
Discussion refers to the interpretative analysis of the study’s findings in light of existing literature and theoretical frameworks. It is crucial for contextualizing results, addressing limitations, and suggesting avenues for future research on the biochemical activities of rosemary and its applicability in dietary interventions.

23) Flavonoid:
Flavonoid refers to a group of bioactive compounds found in rosemary that contribute to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The study suggests that these compounds may play a significant role in mitigating oxidative stress and inflammation, highlighting the importance of dietary flavonoids in promoting health.

24) Species:
Species relates to rosemary as an identified plant species whose extracts are analyzed for health benefits. Understanding the specific species involved in therapeutic applications is critical for proper identification, extraction methods, and subsequent evaluations of bioactive compounds and their impacts on health and disease.

25) Company:
Company refers to the source of aspartame used in the study, which was obtained from Sigma Chemical Company. It underscores the importance of sourcing reliable materials for research, ensuring that substances are of known quality and consistency, which is crucial for replicating study conditions and outcomes.

26) Nature:
Nature highlights the role of natural products, such as rosemary, in health promotion and disease prevention. The study proposes that using natural antioxidants provides an alternative strategy against the adverse effects of synthetic substances like aspartame, bringing attention to the value of utilizing herbal resources in health.

27) Powder:
Powder refers to the state of rosemary extract after the preparation process, where water is evaporated and the extract is dried. This term emphasizes the methodologies involved in herbal extraction, which is essential for preserving the bioactive compounds necessary for the experimental assessments conducted in the study.

28) Ulcer:
Ulcer is mentioned in the context of the health benefits attributed to rosemary. It points to the broader therapeutic applications of rosemary extracts beyond just liver protection, suggesting their potential use in treating various conditions such as peptic ulcers, highlighting the plant's versatility in addressing multiple health issues.

29) Table:
Table refers to the data presentation format used in the research findings, showcasing the quantitative assessment of apoptosis-related markers. This term illustrates the importance of clear data representation for interpreting results and facilitates easier comparison across different experimental groups, thereby enhancing scientific communication.

30) Food:
Food relates to the larger context of nutrition and dietary substances, emphasizing the role of aspartame as a food additive and rosemary as a natural enhancer. The study connects health outcomes with dietary choices, implying that selecting natural food components can mitigate potential health risks associated with synthetic ingredients.

31) Diet:
Diet refers to the overall nutritional intake, including both aspartame as a synthetic sweetener and rosemary as a natural antioxidant. The findings suggest that dietary modifications can have profound implications on health, particularly regarding the balance between using synthetic and natural components in daily feeding practices.

32) Post:
Post refers to the treatment timeline concerning the administration of aspartame and rosemary extract. It emphasizes the significance of understanding the timing of interventions in experimental designs, particularly how pre-, co-, and post-administration strategies may influence the outcomes of the protective effects exerted by rosemary.

Other Science Concepts:

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Rosemary extract attenuates apoptotic effect of aspartame in liver of male rats’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Experimental design, Oxidative stress, Antioxidant capacity, Cytokines.

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