Evaluation of the effect of subcutaneous theranekron (tarantula cubensis extract) in an experimental cardiac ischemia/reperfusion model

Evaluation of the Effect of Subcutaneous Theranekron (Tarantula Cubensis Extract) in an Experimental Cardiac Ischemia/Reperfusion Model Background: Cardiovascular diseases are one of the leading causes of mortality and morbidity today. Atherosclerosis can lead to occlusions by reducing blood flow within vessels. Re-establishing blood flow to ischemic myocardium results in ischemia-reperfusion injury. Various treatment protocols are being developed to prevent this damage, and research is ongoing. Objective: We aimed to investigate the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of Theranekron, derived from Tarantula Cubensis, on experimental myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury using biochemical, histopathological, and immunohistochemical methods. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted on 40 adult male Wistar Albino rats, weighing between 205-435 g. The rats were divided into four groups: control group, pre-ischemia Theranekron group, post-ischemia Theranekron group, and reperfusion-initiation Theranekron group. The ischemia/reperfusion model was established by applying 30 minutes of ischemia followed by 2 hours of reperfusion. Theranekron was administered subcutaneously at a dose of 0.2 ml. TNF-α and caspase-3 expressions were evaluated as markers of inflammation using immunohistochemical methods, while biochemical parameters (Troponin and BNP) were measured using the ELISA method. Results: Histopathological examinations showed that Theranekron reduced ischemia/reperfusion damage, decreased infarct size, and alleviated neutrophil infiltration. TNF-α and caspase-3 expressions were significantly reduced with Theranekron treatment, with the reduction being more pronounced when administered before ischemia. Theranekron administration led to a statistically significant decrease in BNP levels, while no significant change was observed in troponin levels. Conclusion: The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of Theranekron reduced ischemia/reperfusion injury in the experimental myocardial ischemia/reperfusion model. Pre-ischemia administration was found to be more effective. Further studies are needed to support the clinical potential of Theranekron. The findings of this study suggest that Theranekron may provide potential protection against cardiac ischemia/reperfusion injury. Keywords: Theranekron,Tarantula Cubensis,Myocardial1ischemia/reperfusion, TNF-α, caspase-3, antioxidant.