The use of animal models for experimentation has been responsible for improving prevention, diagnosis and treatment methods. Many studies have tried to establish standardized protocols, directing tests of molecules and products, to master the variables of research, avoiding misinterpretation of results and increasing reliability for human health. Cardiotonic steroids (CTS), such as digoxin and its derivatives are substances with high interaction power with enzymes in the animal organism such as Na,K-ATPase. Various tests for hepatological, cardiac, renal and neurological treatments have already been developed. However, research related to human reproduction and gonad evaluation involving CTS are still scarce. The aim of this study was to carry out a morphometric investigation of the testicular structure and function of Rattus norvegicus (Wistar) after 8-benzylidene digoxin (BD8) treatment. The animals received BD8 at 20, 100, 200 and 400 ug/kg, while control animals received saline. Euthanasia was carried out with Xylazine and Ketamine, the testes were weighed and fixed for 12h in Bouin's solution. Tissue fragments were routinely dehydrated in ethanol and embedded in paraffin. Semi-serial sections were made and stained with hematoxylin and eosin. ImageJ® software was used for the morphometric analysis. Statistical data was analyzed using Prisma® software (p<0.05). Gonadosomatic index (GSI) and somatic tubule index (STI) showed no significant alterations, although microscopically it was possible to notice degrees of spermatogenesis in the treated animals compared to saline. In addition, degradation and loss of cell adhesion could be observed in all treatment concentrations used, adopting pathological indications of 1 to 8 following the Johnsen's score. It’s concluded a hypothesis that BD8 possibly induces precocious spermatogenesis in rats, although it can be pathogenic at high doses. Further studies on 8-benzylidene digoxin and its functionality for human health and treatments for male gonads should be carried out to ensure the veracity of these observations.
Dear Colleagues and Friends,
We are thrilled to extend a warm welcome to the 8th Annual Meeting of the Cardiotonic Steroids and Na Pump, in collaboration with the Brazilian Society of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutic Society (SBFTE) and the Brazilian Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (SBBq). The event is scheduled to take place at the Federal University of São João del Rei (UFSJ) from August 20th to 23rd, 2024.
The Na pump meeting stands as one of Brazil's most enduring scientific gatherings. Over the past decade, it has been hosted by various Brazilian institutions, serving as a pivotal platform for scientific discussions that contribute significantly to the advancement of fundamental knowledge in Na, K-ATPase biochemistry, molecular biology, and related fields. Additionally, it serves as a forum for dialogues on scientific education and training, generating consensus that can influence public policies for the betterment of society.
For this year's meeting, the organizing committee has curated an engaging interdisciplinary program, featuring lectures by esteemed foreign scientists. These sessions will delve into the latest advancements and current challenges across a broad spectrum of research topics in Biochemistry and the Molecular Na pump signaling cascade.
We eagerly anticipate your participation in this exciting scientific event and hope to see you soon in Minas Gerais!
Best regards,
Scientific Committee
Comissão Organizadora
Dr Leandro Augusto Barbosa
Dr Vanessa Faria Cortes
Sílvia Ramos Silva
Marina Vieira
Anna Karolina de Oliveira Alfenas Gadelha - Mídias Sociais e Papelaria
Jessica Alves Faria - Coffee Break e Gráfica
Lucas Antônio Lisboa Ribeiro - Apresentação/Cerimonial
Poliana Amorim Santos - Abertura/ Encerramento/ parte recreativa
?Ana Gabriela Finamore dos Santo-Midias Sociais e Suporte Técnico.
Thiago Malverde de Oliveira - Divulgação (SJDR) e suporte
Maurício Gustavo Oliveira - Credenciamento
Ítalo Leonardo Diogo - Contato com a pós-graduação e Controle de Frequência
Julia Lopes Granato - Midias sociais e controle de frequência
Comissão Científica
Dr. Gustavo Blanco – Kansas University Medical Center, USA
Dr. John Hamlyn – University of Maryland, USA
Dr. Rúben Gerardo Contreras Patiño – CINVESTAV, Mexico
Dra. Vanessa Faria Cortes - Federal University of São João del-Rei, Brazil
Dr Carlos Frederico Leite Fontes - Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Dr Cristoforo Scavone - University of Sao Paulo
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