Chronically administered . marginata extract ameliorates diabetes mellitus, associated behavioral comorbidities and biochemical parameters in alloxan-induced diabetic rats.

INTRODUCTION

Diabetes mellitus causes hyperglycemia and associated complications to the brain. In current study, the traditionally reported remedial claims of var. has been scientifically investigated in diabetic rats.

METHODOLOGY

The methanolic extract of leaves of Agave var. (Aa.Cr) was characterized for total phenols, flavonoids, and antioxidant potential through testing. The rats chronically pre-treated with Aa.Cr (400 and 600 mg/kg) for 45 days were challenged with alloxan-induced hyperglycemia. The dose-dependent effects of Aa.Cr on blood glucose levels and body weights were compared with diabetic rats using glibenclamide (0.6 mg/kg) as a standard. The animals were tested for diabetes-associated neurological comorbidities through behavioral and biochemical evaluation.

RESULTS

The phenols and flavonoids enriched Aa.Cr caused a significant dose-dependent hypoglycemic effect. Aa.Cr showed protection from comorbid anxiety, depression and cognitive impairment as compared to diabetic rats. The alanine aminotransferase, total cholesterol, triglycerides and low-density lipoprotein were prominently reduced, and high-density lipoprotein was increased in rats treated with Aa.Cr. Moreover, the oxidative stress in isolated brains was reduced by Aa.Cr.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that Aa.Cr is enriched with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory phytoconstituents valuable for diabetes and related neurological complications.