Effect of carbon and nitrogen source amendment on synthetic dyes decolourizing efficiency of white-rot fungus, Phanerochaete chrysosporium

Decolourization activity of Phanerochaete chrysosporium for three synthetic dyes viz., congo red, malachite green and crystal violet and impact of additional carbon and nitrogen supply on decolourization capacity of fungus were investigated. Maximum decolourizing capacity was observed up to 15 ppm. Addition of urea as nitrogen source and glucose as carbon source significantly enhanced decolourizing capacity (up to 87%) of fungus. In all the cases, both colour and COD were reduced more in non-sterilized treatments as compared to sterilized ones. Significant reductions in COD content of dye solutions (79-84%) were recorded by fungus supplied with additional carbon and nitrogen. A highly significant correlation (r = 0.78, p < 0.001) between colour and COD of dye solutions was recorded. Thus, a readily available carbon and nitrogen source is imperative to enhance the bioremediation activity of this fungus which has been the most suitable for synthetic dyes and textile industry wastewater treatment.     

Protective role of Curcuma longa extract and curcumin on mercuric chloride-induced nephrotoxicity in rats: evidence by histological architecture

Mercury (Hg) is a potent nephrotoxin. The aim of this study was to investigate the protective role of Curcuma longa extract and curcumin against HgCl₂-induced nephrotoxicity. Male Sprague Dawley rats were administered HgCl₂ (12 μmol kg^?1, ip; once only) followed by treatment of Curcuma longa extract (200 mg kg^?1, po) and curcumin (80 mg kg^?1, po) for three days after 24 h of HgCl₂ administration. The present results showed that mercuric chloride administration caused an impairment of renal function system which was evident from significant increase in urea, creatinine, uric acid, and blood urea nitrogen concentration in serum. In addition, the swelling in glomerulus and degenerated renal tubules with obstructed lumen was also observed by acute mercuric chloride administration. Treatment with Curcuma longa extract and curcumin was effective in restoring all variables of kidney functions near to control group, which was consistent with kidney histoarchitecture. In conclusion, these results suggest that Curcuma longa extract and curcumin protect against HgCl₂-induced nephrotoxicity. This study could be important for the further understanding of mercury toxicity in renal tissues and in the development of better treatments for people and/or animals exposed to the metal.