Browsing by Author "Şeker, Uğur"

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Adm and Sflt-1 Expression in Placentas With Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
(2023) Şeker, Uğur; Aşır, Fırat; Deveci, Engin; Arslan, Necat; Kaplan, Özge; Şeker, Uğur; Başaran, Süreyya Özdemir; Department of Basic Medical Sciences / Temel Tıp Bilimleri Bölümü
Amaç: Bu çalışmada gestasyonel diyabetes mellitusta (GDM) vasküler regülasyonda rolü saptanan iki yeni protein olan Adrenomedullin (ADM) ve soluble fms-benzeri tirozin kinaz (sFlt-1)’in ekspresyon seviyelerini incelemeyi, hastalığın histopatolojisinde bu proteinlerin ekspresyon seviyelerini karşılaştırmayı ve bu proteinlerin ekspresyon yoğunluğunun hastalıkla korelasyonunu gözlemlemeyi amaçladık. Gereç ve Yöntem: Çalışmamızda 20 Normotansif ve 20 GDM’li plasenta örneği alındı. Histolojik takip yöntemiyle takip edildi. Bu dokulardan 5µm kalınlığında kesitler alınarak Hematoksilen-Eozin, Periodic Acid Schiff (PAS) boyamaları yapıldı. İmmunünohistokimyasal olarak ADM ve sFlt-1 antikorları çalışıldı. Bulgular: GDM grubunda; kök villuslarındaki kan damarlarında dilatasyon ve konjesyon, endotel hücrelerinde hiperplazi görüldü. Villusların dış kısmındaki sinsitiyal köprülerde artış, mononükleer hücre infiltrasyonu, maternal bölgedeki desidual hücrelerin bazılarında piknotik nükleuslar ve sitoplazma kaybı izlendi. İmmunohistokimyasal incelemede villusların sitotrofoblast ve sinsitiyotrofoblast hücrelerinde ve sinsitiyal düğümlerde negatif ADM ekspresyonu vardı. Küçük villusların bazı sitotrofoblast hücrelerinde, damar endotel hücrelerinde ve desidual hücrelerde pozitif ADM ekspresyonu görüldü. GDM grubunda sFlt-1 ekspresyonu endotel hücrelerinde, mezenşimal bağ doku içindeki bazı Hofbauer hücrelerinde, desidual hücre nükleuslarında ve membranlarında pozitif olarak gözlendi. Sonuç: Desidual hücre membranlarında, sitotrofoblastlarda ADM pozitif ekspresyon gösterdiğinden ADM’nin glikoz yoğunluğunun belirlenmesinde ve bununla ilişkili olarak insülin regülasyonunda önemli bir düzenleyici olabileceğini düşündürmüştür. Yine sFlt-1’in maternal ve fötal bölgelerdeki endotel hücresi üzerindeki etkileri ve Hofbauer hücrelerindeki ekspresyonu, anjiyogenik etkide bu molekülün anahtar rol alabileceği kanısını uyandırmıştır.
Ameliorating effects of low-dose ketamine administrations on opioid-induced memory impairments and neurodegeneration in mice
(İnönü Üniversitesi Tıp Fakültesi, 2023) Şeker, Uğur; Department of Basic Medical Sciences / Temel Tıp Bilimleri Bölümü
Aim: Opioids have indispensable roles in pain management. A strong link exists between opioid use and memory impairments, mainly with continuous use. This study investigated the effects of two opioid drugs, meperidine and fentanyl, on emotional memory functions, brain morphology, and the possible protective effects of low-dose ketamine in mice. Materials and Methods: A passive avoidance (PA) test was used to measure emotional memory functions following seven daily drug applications in 48 male Balb/C mice (30-35 g). Meperidine (10 mg/kg), fentanyl (0.3 mg/kg), ketamine (5 mg/kg), and combinations of ketamine with the opioids were intraperitoneally injected daily. No drugs were utilized during the testing days. Brain tissues were obtained after sacrification and put into diluted formalin solution for histopathological analysis. Results: Transfer latencies of the meperidine and fentanyl-treated groups in the PA test were lower than in the vehicle-treated group (p<0.01, p<0.05, respectively). Ketamine combined with meperidine had higher latencies than in the meperidine-treated group (p<0.05). The augmenting effects of ketamine were evident against fentanyl and meperidine-induced neurotoxicity as morphologic alterations were reduced. Conclusion: Low-dose ketamine may fend against opioid-induced neurotoxicity and emotional memory impairments, especially against meperidine, which can be a practical alternative to fentanyl in clinical settings.
Citation - WoS: 2
Citation - Scopus: 2
An Examination of the Effects of Propolis and Quercetin in a Rat Model of Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy
(Mdpi, 2024) Şeker, Uğur; Celik, Hakim; Dagli, Seyda Nur; Taskin, Seyhan; Seker, Ugur; Deniz, Mustafa; Department of Basic Medical Sciences / Temel Tıp Bilimleri Bölümü
The purpose of this study was to reveal the combined effects of propolis (P) and quercetin (Q) against diabetic peripheral neuropathy developing with streptozotocin-induced diabetes in rats. Sixty-four adult male rats were divided into eight equal groups: control, P (100 mg/kg/day), Q (100 mg/kg/day), P + Q (100 mg/day for both), diabetes mellitus (DM) (single-dose 60 mg/kg streptozotocin), DM + P, DM + Q, and DM + P + Q. The rats were sacrificed, and blood and sciatic nerve tissues were collected. Blood glucose and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels increased, while IL-6 and total antioxidant status decreased in the DM group (p = 0.016 and p = 0.047, respectively). Ultrastructural findings showed degeneration of the axon and myelin sheath. The apoptotic index (AI %), TNF-alpha, and IL-1 beta immunopositivity increased significantly in the DM group (p < 0.001). Morphological structures approaching those of the controls were observed in the DM + P, DM + Q, and DM + P + Q groups. Morphometric measurements increased markedly in all treatment groups (p < 0.001), while blood glucose and MDA levels, AI (%), TNF-alpha, and IL-1 beta immunopositivity decreased. In conclusion, the combined effects of propolis and quercetin in diabetic neuropathy may provide optimal morphological protection with neuroprotective effects by reducing hyperglycemia, and these may represent a key alternative supplement in regenerative medicine.
Citation - Scopus: 0
Comparison of Different Fixatives Effects in Histochemical Stainings of Peripheral Nerve Tissue
(Cellular and Molecular Biology Association, 2024) Şeker, Uğur; Demircioğlu, M.; Şeker, U.; Demircioğlu, İ.; Department of Basic Medical Sciences / Temel Tıp Bilimleri Bölümü
A pathological condition in the peripheral nerve tissue, which provides the connection between the organism and the external environment, negatively affects the standard of living. The nerve tissue histotechnology is of serious importance both for scientific studies and for clinical diagnosis. The fixation, which is one of the leading procedures for histological examination of tissues, aims to preserve tissue morphology. Another essential part of the histological examination is staining process. This study, it was aimed to determine the fixative that provides optimal histological appearance in peripheral nerve tissue. Therefore, various histochemical stainings of tissues fixed with some fixatives used in practice were compared. Sciatic nerves from each rat (n=7) used in the study were fixed with different fixatives and histochemical staining was performed. In histological examination, cellular (nucleus-cytoplasm) and intercellular morphological details, staining intensity and distribution were evaluated. At the end of the study, formaldehyde was found to be the most ideal fixing agent for all stains. Although Bouin and Carnoy fixatives differed according to the staining type, their fixation quality was similar in general. Glutaraldehyde did not give as good results as other fixatives in all stainings. This study is an important technical reference for clinical and experimental studies. © 2024 Cellular and Molecular Biology Association. All rights reserved.
Deneysel Diyabetik Ratlarda İnsizyonel Yara İyileşmesinde Aloe Vera’nın Etkinliğinin Mmp-1 Ve Timp-1 Yönünden İncelenmesi
(2023) Şeker, Uğur; Başaran, Süreyya Özdemir; Soker, Sevda; Kaplan, Özge; Aşır, Fırat; Deveci, Engin; Şeker, Uğur; Department of Basic Medical Sciences / Temel Tıp Bilimleri Bölümü
Purpose: The aim of this study is to investigate the healing aspect of aloe vera in diabetes mellitus, which inhibits wound healing. Materials and methods: Diabetes model was created with streptozotocin. At the end of the 14-day experiment, blood glucose was measured from the tail vein of animals in all groups and blood was taken from the heart and sacrificed. Histopathology and immunohistochemical statistics and evaluation were performed. Results: Pycnosis and degeneration of epithelial cells were observed in diabetes groups. Leukocyte infiltration in the dermal papilla, degeneration of collagen fibers and an increase in the extracellular matrix were observed. It was observed that the epithelial layer in the aloe vera group was histologically close to the control group. It was observed that decreased inflammation in the dermal papilla and decreased in organized collagen fibers and vessel dilatation were observed. In the control group, MMP-1 and TIMP-1 expression were positive in the epidermis and dermis layers. In the diabetes group, weak expression of MMP-1 and TIMP-1 was observed in cells in the epidermis and dermis. The expression of MMP-1 and TIMP-1 in the surface epithelium in the aloe vera group was increased compared to the diabetes group. Conclusion: Aloe vera accelerated cell and extracellular matrix regeneration with its anti-oxidative activity.
Citation - WoS: 0
Citation - Scopus: 0
Effect of Gundelia Tournefortii Extract on Diabetic Gastropathy: Involvement of Inflammation, Apoptosis, Oxidative Stress, and Histopathology
(Urmia Univ, 2025) Şeker, Uğur; Seker, Ugur; Demircioglu, Muhammet; Demircioglu, Ismail; Department of Basic Medical Sciences / Temel Tıp Bilimleri Bölümü
In this study, the effect of Gundelia tournefortii (GT) extract against diabetic gastropathy was investigated by pathological methods. The animal groups were designed as the control, diabetes, diabetes + GT50, diabetes + GT100, and diabetes + GT200 groups. No treatment was applied to the control group. The other groups received 45.00 mg kg-1 streptozotocin intraperitoneally on the experimental day. The treatment groups were also given 50.00, 100, and 200 mg kg-1 of GT extract daily by gavage for 21 days. Tissues were stained with Hematoxylin and Eosin for histopathological examination. Immunohistochemical staining was performed to reveal the presence of inflammation (tumor necrosis factor alpha), apoptosis (cysteine aspartate specific proteases-3), and oxidative stress (heat shock protein-27). Histopathological examination revealed no pathological lesion in the control group. In the diabetes group, mucosal tissue damage, and vascular and inflammatory changes were observed. In the treatment groups, GT decreased histopathological findings in parallel with the dose increase. Immunohistochemical examination revealed no immunopositivity in the control group, while severe immunopositivity was observed in the diabetes groups in terms of inflammation, apoptosis, and oxidative stress. In the treatment groups, there was a decrease in the severity of immunopositivity's depending on the dose increase. As a result of this study, which has not been done before, GT was found to have a protective effect against gastropathy, being an important complication of diabetes, and this study is thus an important reference point for future research and promises new hope for the patients. (c) 2025 Urmia University. All rights reserved.
Citation - WoS: 1
Citation - Scopus: 1
Effects of acute carbon monoxide posioning on liver damage and comparisons of related oxygen therapies in a rat model
(Taylor & Francis Ltd, 2024) Gökdemir, Gül Şahika; Gokdemir, Gul Sahika; Seker, Ugur; Şeker, Uğur; Demirtas, Berjan; Taskin, Seyhan; Department of Basic Medical Sciences / Temel Tıp Bilimleri Bölümü
Acute carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning may cause liver damage and liver dysfunction. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to compare the efficiency of normobaric oxygen (NBO) and high-flow nasal cannula oxygen (HFNCO) treatments on liver injury. For that purpose, 28 male Wistar albino rats were divided into four groups (Control, CO, CO + NBO, and CO + HFNCO). The control group was allowed to breath room air for 30 min. Acute CO poisoning in CO, CO + NBO, CO + HFNCO was induced by CO exposure for 30 min. Thereafter, NBO group received 100% NBO with reservoir mask for 30 min. HFNCO group received high-flow oxygen through nasal cannula for 30 min. At the end of the experiment, all animals were sacrificed by cardiac puncture under anesthesia. Serum liver function tests were measured. Liver tissue total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS), and oxidative stress index (OSI) levels, tissue histomorphology and immunoexpression levels of Bax, Caspase 3, TNF-alpha, IL-1 beta, and NF-kappa B were also examined. Our observations indicated that acute CO poisoning caused significant increases in blood COHb, serum aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT0, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total protein, albumin, and globulin levels but a decrease in albumin to globulin ratio (all, p < 0.05). Furthermore, acute CO poisoning significantly increased the OSI value, and the immunoexpresssion of Bax, Caspase 3, TNF-alpha, IL-1 beta, and NF-kappa B in liver tissue (all, p < 0.05). These pathological changes in serum and liver tissue were alleviated through both of the treatment methods. In conclusion, both the NBO and HFNCO treatments were beneficial to alleviate the acute CO poisoning associated with liver injury and dysfunction. [GRAPHICS] .
Citation - Scopus: 0
Histological Evaluation of Algan Hemostatic Agent's Effect in a Rat Experimental Spleen Injury Model
(Ondokuz Mayis Universitesi, 2024) Şeker, Uğur; Mavuş, D.; Şeker, U.; Yildiz, G.; Gökçe, K.; Department of Basic Medical Sciences / Temel Tıp Bilimleri Bölümü
Uncontrolled hemorrhage may result from injuries to the parenchym and splenic capsule. Hemostatic material applications are among the methods used to prevent spleen parenchymal hemorrhage. Algan Hemostatic Agent (AHA) is a standardized mixture of six distinct herbs that are capable of hemostasis, either individually or in combination. Aim of this study was to investigate efficiency of AHA in bleeding control in experimental spleen injury model, and to evaluate its histopathological effects and IL-1β, TNF-α, and Bax expressions in tissue. Twenty-four Wistar albino female rats, aged 10-12 weeks, were randomly separated into three groups (n=8); control, AHA-liquid, and AHA-powder. After surgery physiological saline, liquid and powder were applied to the injured area for twenty seconds. On the tenth postoperative day all rats’ spleens were removed for histopathological and immunohistochemical analysis. The AHA-liquid group demonstrated more efficacy in controlling hemorrhage than the AHA powder group after both the initial and subsequent applications. Parenchyma of the spleen was intact, and a thin capsule was detected in the liquid group. In the powder group, thick granulation tissue was observed along with acute lymphocyte and neutrophil infiltration. Expressions of IL-1 β and TNF-α were mild in control and AHA-liquid groups and intense in AHA-powder groups. Similar Bax protein expression was detected in all groups. Current study demonstrated that liquid form of AHA was more effective in reducing local bleeding and inflammation in spleen tissue. Therefore, liquid form could be preferred in animal experiments and clinics as a rapid, safe, and effective agent for organ injury. © 2024 Ondokuz Mayis Universitesi. All rights reserved.
Citation - WoS: 2
Citation - Scopus: 2
Investigation of the Protective Activity of Baicalein on the Lungs via Regulation of Various Cellular Responses in Rats Exposed to Experimental Sepsis
(Oxford University Press, 2023) Dicle, Yalçın; Şeker, Uğur; Şeker, Uğur; Department of Basic Medical Sciences / Temel Tıp Bilimleri Bölümü
Backgrounds In the present study, a cecal ligation and puncture (CLP)-induced experimental sepsis rat model was used to explore the effects of baicalein on inflammatory cytokine levels and oxidative stress as well as the possible regulatory role of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB). Methods For that purpose, 42 Wistar albino rats were equally divided into control, sham, sepsis, B50 + S, B100 + S, S + B50, and S + B100 groups. The B50 + S and B100 + S groups received baicalein before the induction of sepsis, while the S + B50 and S + B100 groups received baicalein afterwards. Experimental sepsis in related groups is generated through ligation of cecum and a puncture in cecal wall. Serum samples were used for tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) analyses, and tissue Malondialdehyde (MDA), Superoxide dismutase (SOD), Glutathione (GSH), IL-6, and NF-κB levels were measured. Results Compared to the control group, there were significantly increases in the serum TNF-α, IL-6, tissue MDA, and NF-κB levels and decreases in the tissue SOD and GSH levels in the septic group (P < 0.05). Compared to the septic group, inflammation and oxidative stress were reduced in the baicalein-treated groups. Although all of the pre- and post-treatment protocols alleviated inflammation and oxidative stress to varying degrees, pre-treatment with 100 mg/kg was the most successful. Conclusions Findings of this study indicated that baicalein has the potential to reduce sepsis-related oxidative stress and inflammation in the lungs and that pathological outcomes could be regulated via NF-κB transcription factor activity.
Citation - WoS: 0
Citation - Scopus: 0
The Involvement of the Serotonergic System in Ketamine and Fluoxetine Combination-Induced Cognitive Impairments in Mice
(Ataturk Univ, 2024) Şeker, Uğur; Erdinc, Meral; Kelle, Lker; Erdinc, Levent; Seker, Ugur; Nergiz, Yusuf; Department of Basic Medical Sciences / Temel Tıp Bilimleri Bölümü
Background: Gluta mater gic N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors play vital roles in memory formation. Changes in the activity of these receptors influence memory processes. Ketamine is a noncompetitive NMDA receptor antagonist drug with promising mood-altering and pain-reducing effects ff ects in low doses. These effects ff ects are believed to be related to altered serotonergic transmission. Methods: The present study investigated the involvement of the serotonergic system in low-dose ketamine administrations' effects ff ects on memory acquisition, consolidation, and retrieval processes. Sixty-four male BALB/c mice were used in this experiment and separated into 8t groups. Mice were treated subchronically with a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, fluoxetine, and a serotonin depletion agent, p-chlorophenylalanine (pCPA). A serotonin antagonist, methiothepin, and ketamine were acutely administered 60 minutes before or after the behavioral tests. A passive avoidance (PA) test measured emotional memory acquisition, consolidation, and retrieval processes. Hippocampi malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were analyzed, and histopathological examinations were performed. Results: Ketamine alone did not significantly affect ff ect memory encoding processes in the PA test, while the ketamine-fluoxetine combination disrupted memory consolidation. Fluoxetine negatively affected ff ected the memory acquisition process, which was normalized during the consolidation and retrieval trials. Drug applications did not significantly alter hippocampal MDA levels. In all ketamine-applied groups, histopathologic alterations were evident. Conclusion: Low-dose ketamine administration induces neurodegeneration, and it also impairs memory functions when combined with fluoxetine, indicating increased serotonergic transmission may be involved in the memory-impairing and neurotoxic effects ff ects of ketamine.
Citation - WoS: 0
Citation - Scopus: 0
The M1/M2 Macrophage Polarization and Hepatoprotective Activity of Quercetin in Cyclophosphamide-Induced Experimental Liver Toxicity
(Wiley, 2025) Şeker, Uğur; Gökdemir, Gül Şahika; Gokdemir, Gul Sahika; Kavak, Deniz Evrim; Irtegun-Kandemir, Sevgi; Department of Basic Medical Sciences / Temel Tıp Bilimleri Bölümü
Background: Chemotherapy drugs may lead to hepatic injury, which is considered one of the limitations of these drugs. Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of quercetin (QUE) on M1/M2 macrophage polarization and hepatoprotective effect in cyclophosphamide (CTX)-induced liver toxicity. Methods: Twenty-four mice were divided into four groups (Control, QUE, CTX, CTX + QUE). The CTX and CTX + QUE groups received 200 mg/kg CTX. The animals in the QUE and CTX + QUE groups received 50 mg/kg QUE. All animals were sacrificed, and serum and liver samples were used for laboratory analyses. Results: Examinations indicated that CTX exposure led to disruption of liver functions and morphological degenerations. Tissue pro-apoptotic Bax and caspase 3, pro-inflammatory TNF-alpha and IL-1 beta, transcription factor NF-kappa B, and M1 macrophage polarization marker CD86 were upregulated significant (p < 0.05) in this group. In addition, CTX exposure led to significantly (p < 0.05) upregulation of the Bax/Bcl-2 mRNA ratio and DNA fragmentations. The PCNA-positive hepatic cell ratio and anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 expression are remarkably suppressed (p < 0.05). Immunohistochemical analyses are also indicated that M2 macrophage polarization marker CD163 is slightly but remarkably (p < 0.05) downregulated in the CTX group compared to the Control and QUE groups. The morphological and biochemical disruptions were alleviated in QUE-treated animals in the CTX + QUE group. Liver function test results, apoptosis, inflammatory, transcription factor NF-kappa B, regeneration/proliferation, and apoptotic index results in this group were similar (p > 0.05) to the control and QUE groups. The M1 cell surface marker expression of CD86 is significantly (p < 0.05) downregulated, and M2 macrophage polarization marker expression of CD163 is upregulated significantly (p < 0.05) compared to the CTX group. Conclusions: This study indicates that QUE has the potential to downregulate CTX-induced hepatic injury and regulate M1/M2 macrophage polarization to the M2 side, which indirectly demonstrates activation of anti-inflammatory signalling and tissue repair.
Citation - WoS: 0
Citation - Scopus: 0
Neuroprotective Potential of a Novel Soluble Guanylate Cyclase Stimulator the Riociguat Alone or in a Combination Manner With Resveratrol in Experimental Stroke Model in Rats
(Soc Chilena Anatomia, 2024) Şeker, Uğur; Kaya, Seval; Gunara, Sezer Onur; Atlas, Burak; Seker, Ugur; Guzel, Baris Can; Turan, Yahya; Department of Basic Medical Sciences / Temel Tıp Bilimleri Bölümü
In this study we aimed to examine the effect of novel vasodilatory drug Riociguat co-administration along resveratrol to recover neurodegeneration in experimental stroke injury. For that purpose, thirty-five adult female rats were divided into groups five (Control, MCAO, MCAO + R, MCAO + BAY, MCAO + C) of seven animals in each. Animals in Control group did not expose to any application during the experiment and sacrificed at the end of the study. Rats in the rest groups exposed to middle cerebral artery occlusionO) (MCAinduced ischemic stroke. MCAO + R group received 30 mg/kg resveratrol, and MCAO + BAY group received 10 mg/kg Riociguat. The MCAO + C group received both drugs simultaneously. The drugs were administered just before the reperfusion, and the additional e doses weradministered 24h, and 48h hours of reperfusion. All animals in this study were sacrificed at the 72nd hour of experiment. Total brainsreceived were for analysis. Results of this experiment indicated that MCAO led to severe injury in cerebral structure. Bax, IL-6 and IL-1 ss levelstissue were upregulated, but anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 immunoexpression was suppressed (p<0.05). In resveratrol and Riociguat treated animals, the neurodegenerations and apoptosis and inflammation associated protein expressions were improved compared to MCAO group, mosbut the success was obtained in combined treatment exposed animals in MCAO + C group. This study indicated that the novel solubleate guany cyclase stimulator Riociguat is not only a potent neuroprotective drug in MCAO induced stroke, but also synergistic administratio of Riociguat along with resveratrol have potential to increase the neuroprotective effect of resveratrol in experimental cerebral strokeosed rats.
Normozoospermik Fertil Bireyler ile Oligozoospermik, Şiddetli-Oligozoospermik, Oligoastenozoospermik, Azoospermik ve İdiyopatik Bireylerde Natural Killer Hücre Aktivitesinin Araştırılması
(Mardin Artuklu Üniversitesi, 2023) Şeker, Uğur; Afşin, Muhammet; Şeker, Uğur; Yavuz, Dilek; Bademkıran, Muhammed Hanifi; Yıldırım, İbrahim Halil; Cirit, Ümüt; Department of Basic Medical Sciences / Temel Tıp Bilimleri Bölümü
Giriş: İnfertilite çiftleri ve toplumu birçok açıdan olumsuz etkileyen ve gittikçe yaygınlaşan bir sağlık problemidir. Bu problemlerin %30-40’ının erkek kaynaklı olduğu tahmin edilmektedir. Amaç: Farklı derecelerde infertilite problemi olan erkek bireyler ile normal sperm sayısı ve konsantrasyonuna sahip bireylerde (normozoospermi) doğal öldürücü (Natural Killer: NK) hücre aktivitesinin değişip değişmediğinin belirlenmesi amaçlanmıştır. Gereç ve Yöntem: Sperma analizleri sonucu oligozoospermi, şiddetli-oligozoospermi, oligoastenoozospermi, azoospermi ve idiopatik olduğu belirlenen bireyler ile normozoospermi teşhisi konan bireylerden (n:120) alınan kan numunelerinden NK hücre aktiviteleri ölçüldü. Bulgular: Yapılan ölçümler sonucunda normozoospermi grubu en düşük değer (544.46 pg/ml) alırken şiddetli oligozoospermi grubundan en yüksek değer (1005.90 pg/ml) alınmıştır. NK hücre aktivitesi ise oligozoospermi, oligoastenozoospermi, azoospermi ve idiyopatik gruplarda sırasıyla 797.60 ± 428.55 pg/ml, 905.34 ± 430.60 pg/ml, 757.66 ± 541.16 pg/ml ve 639.44 ± 385.50 pg/ml olarak ölçüldü. Şiddetli oligozoospermi grubu ile diğer gruplar arasında NK aktivitesi farkı önemli (p<0.05) bulunurken diğer gruplar arasındaki farklar önemli bulunmamıştır (p >0.05). Sonuç: İnfertilite derecesi şiddetli oligozoospermi olan bireylerde NK hücre aktivitesinin normozoospermi, oligozoospermi, oligoastenozoospermi, azoospermi ve idiopatik gruplarından daha yüksek olduğu belirlenmiştir.
Citation - WoS: 6
Citation - Scopus: 7
Oxidative stress, apoptosis, inflammation, and proliferation modulator function of visnagin provide gonadoprotective activity in testicular ischemia-reperfusion injury
(Verduci Editore srl, 2023) Sağır, Süleyman; Şeker, Uğur; Pekince Özener, Merve; Yüksel, Meral; Demir, Mehmet; Department of Surgical Medical Sciences / Cerrahi Tıp Bilimleri Bölümü; Department of Basic Medical Sciences / Temel Tıp Bilimleri Bölümü
OBJECTIVE: Visnagin (Vis) is a compound found in the flowers and seeds of the Ammi visnaga plant with promising antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. We aimed to investigate the dose-dependent gonadoprotective effects of visnagin in rats while considering oxidative stress, apoptosis, and inflammation-related protein expression levels. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-eight adult rats were divided into four groups of seven animals each; control, ischemia/reperfusion (I/R), I/R+30Vis, and I/R+60Vis. Animals in control received no surgical application and were sacrificed at the end of the experiment. The rats in I/R, I/R + Vis30, and I/R + Vis60 were exposed to testicular ischemia and the animals in I/R + Vis30, and I/R + Vis60 groups received either 30 or 60 mg/kg visnagin intraperitoneal. At the end of the experiment, testis tissues were used for the measurement of oxidative stress, apoptosis, and inflammation. RESULTS: Our microscopic examinations indicated that I/R resulted in testicular degenerations and morphological alterations, which were improved in visnagin-treated animals. The biochemical analyses demonstrated that oxidative stress in the I/R group increased significantly (p<0.05) compared to the control group. The immunohistochemical examinations showed that pro-apoptotic Bax and Caspase 3 expressions, and pro-inflammatory tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) levels were significantly up-regulated (p<0.05) but proliferating nuclear antigen (PCNA) levels in I/R group was significantly (p<0.001) down-regulated compared to the control group. CONCLUSIONS: Ischemia leading to testicular torsion is a reproductive health-affecting problem, and current surgical treatment methods might be insufficient to recover the testis due to the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Our observations indicate that visnagin is a potential co-modality along with the surgical interventions for the recovery of ischemia encountered testis, but we believe the requirement of more detailed studies to explore the underlying signaling pathways and the strength of visnagin against testicular ischemia-reperfusion injury.
Citation - WoS: 0
Protective Effects of Trolox on Ketamine-Induced Memory Impairments and Morphological Changes in the Brain
(Asian Network Scientific Information-Ansinet, 2025) Şeker, Uğur; Erdinc, Meral; Kelle, Ilker; Erdinc, Levent; Seker, Ugur; Nergiz, Yusuf; Department of Basic Medical Sciences / Temel Tıp Bilimleri Bölümü
Background and Objective: Ketamine has demonstrated potential in treating various neuropsychiatric disorders at low doses. However, its memory-impairing and neurotoxic effects and abuse potential present limitations to its use. This study aimed to investigate ketamine's effects on memory functions, brain morphology and lipid peroxidation in a time- and dose-dependent manner and the protective effects of Trolox. Materials and Methods: Forty-eight male BALB/c mice were administered low and high doses of ketamine (10, 30 mg/kg/day, respectively) sub-chronically and chronically (7 and 21 days, respectively). A subgroup also received Trolox (20 mg/kg/day) for 21 days combined with high-dose ketamine. Following the drug administrations, behavioral tests were performed, including a modified elevated plus maze, a novel object recognition and a passive avoidance test. In the brain, malondialdehyde levels and morphology were examined. The results were analyzed using a one-way analysis of variance followed by a post hoc Tukey's test. Results: Chronic high-dose ketamine impaired spatial, emotional and recognition memory. Subchronic high-dose ketamine did not affect emotional and recognition memory but did impair spatial memory. Low-dose ketamine did not produce impairments. Malondialdehyde levels were elevated and morphological changes were evident in the chronic high-dose ketamine-applied group. These alterations were attenuated with Trolox. Conclusion: The memory-impairing and neurotoxic effects of ketamine are linked to increased oxidative stress. Antioxidant molecules like Trolox can be practical against the toxicity of ketamine.
Citation - WoS: 7
Citation - Scopus: 8
Regulation of Stat3 and Nf-Κb Signaling Pathways By Trans-anethole in Testicular Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury and Its Gonadoprotective Effect
(Mre Press, 2024) Şeker, Uğur; Gokce, Yasin; Kati, Bulent; Yuksel, Meral; Guzel, Baris Can; Shokoohi, Majid; Department of Basic Medical Sciences / Temel Tıp Bilimleri Bölümü
Testicular ischemia reperfusion (I/R) injury is a significant urological problem where clinical interventions may be inadequate, and the antioxidants might be potential co-treatment modalities. This study examined the gonadoprotective effect of trans-Anethole in testicular I/R injury. Twenty-eight male rats were divided into four groups. Rats in the I/R, I/R + t100, I/R + t200 groups underwent bilateral testicular I/R injury. The I/R + t100 and I/R + t200 groups received 100 or 200 mg/kg trans-Anethole at the 2nd hour of ischemia. Microscopic evaluations demonstrated that testicular I/R injury leads to severe testicular degeneration. Tissue oxidative stress, pro-apoptotic Bcl-2 associated X (Bax) and Caspase 3, pro-inflammatory Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), Interleukin-1 beta (IL-1 beta) and Interleukin 6 (IL-6) cytokines levels were significantly (p < 0.05) upregulated when compared to the Control group. Additionally, transcription factors Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and Nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-kappa B) levels increased significantly (p < 0.05) compared to the Control group. Tissue disrupted parameters in the I/R + t200 group were significantly different (p < 0.05) from the I/R group, contrasting with the slight improvement in the I/R + t100 group. The STAT3 and NF-kappa B expression levels in the I/R + t200 group were significantly suppressed (p < 0.05) compared to the I/R group. In conclusion, our study indicates that trans-Anethole could enhance gonadoprotective activity in testicular I/R injury, potentially involving transcription factors STAT3 and NF-kappa B. However, before the consumption of trans-Anethole-containing natural or manufactured goods, the potential benefits and side effects should be carefully evaluated.
Citation - WoS: 0
Citation - Scopus: 0
Safety Analysis of Different Intensities of Elf-Pemf in Terms of Apoptotic, Inflammatory, and Transcription Factor Nf-Κb Expression Levels in Rat Liver
(Kare Publ, 2024) Şeker, Uğur; Seker, Ugur; Ozoner, Merve Pekince; Department of Basic Medical Sciences / Temel Tıp Bilimleri Bölümü
Background and Aim: The purpose of this research was to ascertain how exposure to extremely low-frequency pulsed electromagnetic fields (ELFPEMFs) at varying intensities affects apoptosis-related protein expression levels and liver morphology in rats. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, 40 Wistar albino rats were randomly divided into 4 groups, with 10 animals in each group: Control, Sham, 1 milli Tesla (1mT), and 5 mT groups. The control group did not expose any application during the experiment. Animals in the sham group were placed into the closed ELF-PEMF exposure environment, but the device was kept closed. The rats in the 1mT and 5mT groups were placed into a closed ELF-PEMF exposure environment, and the magnetic field application was applied 5 days a week for 4 hours a day for 8 weeks. At the end of the study, the animals were sacrificed, and their liver tissues were examined morphologically, and the expression levels of proteins related to apoptosis and inflammation in these tissues were analyzed. Results: Our results indicated that ELF-PEMFs did not lead to any exact morphological alterations in the groups. Tissue apoptotic Bax and Caspase the control group. Additionally, pro-inflammatory TNF-alpha and transcription factor NF-kappa B in the 1mT and 5mT groups were similar (p>0.05) to each other and the control group. ELF-PEMF in rats.
Citation - WoS: 4
Citation - Scopus: 3
The nephroprotective effect of Quercetin in Cyclophosphamide-induced renal toxicity might be associated with MAPK/ERK and NF-κB signal modulation activity
(Taylor & Francis Ltd, 2024) Seker, Ugur; Şeker, Uğur; Kavak, Deniz Evrim; Dokumaci, Fatma Zehra; Kizildag, Sefa; Irtegun-Kandemir, Sevgi; Department of Basic Medical Sciences / Temel Tıp Bilimleri Bölümü
The present study aimed to examine the protective effect of quercetin (QUE) on cyclophosphamide (CTX)-induced nephrotoxicity. For that purpose, 24 mice were divided into four groups (Control, QUE, CTX, and CTX + QUE). The CTX and CTX + QUE groups received 200 mg/kg of cyclophosphamide on the 1(st) and 7(th) days. The QUE and CTX + QUE groups were treated with 50 mg/kg of quercetin daily for 14 days. At the end of the experiment, the animals were sacrificed, and kidney samples were analyzed. The results indicated that CTX leads to severe morphological degenerations and disruption in renal function. Serum BUN, Creatinine, Uric acid, tissue Bax, Caspase 3, TNF-alpha and IL-1 beta expression levels were upregulated in the CTX group compared to Control and QUE groups (p < 0.05). Although MAPK/ERK phosphorylation level is not affected in CTX group, there was a significant increase in CTX + QUE group (p < 0.05), but the NF-kappa B was significantly suppressed in this group (p < 0.01). The RT-qPCR results showed that the cyt-c and the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio mRNA expression folds were upregulated in the CTX group (p < 0.01), which was downregulated in the CTX + QUE group. However, there was a significant difference in the CTX + QUE group compared to the Control and QUE groups (p < 0.01). The findings showed that administering quercetin along with cyclophosphamide alleviated renal injury by regulating apoptotic and inflammatory expression. Moreover, the administration of quercetin and cyclophosphamide could synergistically improve renal function test results, and activate cellular responses, which upmodulate MAPK/ERK phosphorylation and suppression of NF-kappa B.