Immunohistochemical examination on the effects of malathion and Onosma nigricaule (Boraginaceae) on the catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase-2 (Mn-SOD) in renal tissues of mice

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of the plant extract, which is obtained from Onosma nigricaule due to the oxidation parameters caused in mice by malathion that is used as an insecticide in agriculture, on catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase-2 (Mn-SOD) in kidney tissues by immunohistochemical technique. A total of 48 male mice (Mus musculus) were used in our study. Mice were divided 6 groups (control group, maize oil group, normal saline group, Onosma nigricaule group, malathion group, Onosma nigrcaule+malathion group). Hematoxylin-eosin and triple staining methods were used for histological and pathological examinations. The localization of CAT and Mn-SOD in the renal tissue was determined using the method of streptavidin-biotin-peroxidase. CAT immunoreactivity was determined with a weak intensity in epithelium of renal tubulus proximalis of mice in the malathion group, with a moderate intensity in Onosma nigricaule+malathion group and with a higher intensity in tubulus proximalis of other groups. A cytoplasmic Mn-SOD immunoreactivity was determined with weak intensity in renal medulla of mice in malathion group, with moderate intensity in renal medulla of mice in Onosma nigricaule plant extract+malathion group, maize oil group, and normal saline group and with highly intensity in control and Onosma nigricaule groups. It was concluded that Onosma nigricaule might play a protective role as an antioxidant against the oxidant features of malathion.