Role of thiols in protection against biological reactive intermediates

Effects of Trigonella foenum graecum (fenugreek) on rheumatoid arthritis: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Adjuvant therapies especially medicinal plants have gained lots of attention nowadays and have been consumed all over the world for treating different diseases particularly rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Recent animal studies have indicated the benefits of fenugreek in RA and indicate that it may be a therapeutic candidate in RA; nonetheless, no systematic review is available about fenugreek and RA. This paper systematically reviewed the existing studies about fenugreek and RA and plausible mechanisms.

METHODS

Databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, ProQuest, and the search engine Google Scholar were searched until May 2022 and search alerts were used to receive studies issued after the primary search. There was no restriction in time and/or language. No human and in vitro research was detected; thus, animal investigations were considered. Also, the citations or references of studies were searched for potential studies. Book chapters, review papers, and grey literature (e.g. conference abstracts, dissertations, and patents) were not included.

RESULTS

Finally, 11 studies were entered in this systematic review. Animal investigations showed that fenugreek had favorable effects in RA and could control this disease via attenuating inflammation, suppressing oxidative stress, and displaying anti-arthritic activity.

CONCLUSION

Current review provides potent evidences about the efficacy of fenugreek in RA and elucidates the significance of more clinical investigations. HighlightsFenugreek had favorable effects in rheumatoid arthritis and could control this disease via attenuating inflammation, suppressing oxidative stress, and displaying anti-arthritic activity.

In vivo antidiabetic effects of phenolic compounds of spinach, mustard, and cabbage leaves in mice

Leafy vegetables are considered to have health-promoting potentials, mainly attributed to bioactive phenolic compounds. The antidiabetic effects of spinach, mustard, and cabbage were studied by feeding their phenolic-rich aqueous extracts to alloxan-induced diabetic mice. The antioxidant, biochemical, histopathological, and hematological indices of the control, diabetic, and treated mice were studied. Phenolic compounds present in the extracts were identified and quantified using HPLC-DAD. Results showed ten, nineteen, and eleven phenolic compounds in spinach, mustard, and cabbage leave aqueous extracts, respectively. The body weight, tissue total glutathione (GSH) contents, fasting blood sugar, liver function tests, renal function tests, and lipid profile of the mice were affected by diabetes and were significantly improved by the extract treatments. Likewise, hematological indices and tissues histological studies also showed recovery from diabetic stress in treated mice. The study's findings highlight that the selected leafy vegetables potentially mitigate diabetic complications. Among the studied vegetables, cabbage extract was comparatively more active in ameliorating diabetic stress.

Effects of Ficus umbellata (Moraceae) Aqueous Extract and 7-Methoxycoumarin on Scopolamine-Induced Spatial Memory Impairment in Ovariectomized Wistar Rats

The present work was undertaken to evaluate the ability of F. umbellata aqueous extract and its major component 7-methoxycoumarin (MC) to improve scopolamine-induced spatial memory impairment in ovariectomized Wistar rats. For this to be done, 10 sham-operated and 30 postmenopausal-like rats were randomly distributed in eight groups (n = 5) and treated with distilled water (2 mL/250 g), estradiol valerate (1 mg/kg BW), piracetam (1.5 mg/kg BW), F. umbellata aqueous extract (50 and 200 mg/kg BW), or MC (1 mg/kg BW) for 21 consecutive days. Before and after the memory impairment with scopolamine (2 mg/kg BW), animals underwent behavioral evaluations on Y- and radial mazes. As results, age and ovariectomy did not induce significant changes in the reference memory errors. While age decreased working memory errors, ovariectomy increased it. The MC as well as F. umbellata extract significantly increased (p < 0.01) the percentage of spontaneous alternation and decreased (p < 0.001) working and spatial reference memory errors and anxiety parameters (rearing and grooming) in ovariectomized rats. MC significantly reduced (p < 0.05) the MDA level, but resulted in an increase in GSH level in brain homogenates. These results suggest that MC is endowed with neuroprotective effects and could account for the neuroprotective effects of F. umbellata in rats.

Averrhoa bilimbi fruits attenuate hyperglycemia-mediated oxidative stress in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

Hyperglycemia-mediated oxidative stress plays a major role in the development of diabetic complications. Averrhoa bilimbi Linn. (Oxalidaceae) is a medicinal plant with fruits reported to possess antidiabetic activity. This study evaluated the beneficial effects of the ethyl acetate fraction of A. bilimbi fruit (ABAEE) on the antioxidant/oxidant status in diabetes mellitus. Diabetic rats were treated orally with the ethyl acetate fraction of A. bilimbi fruits at a dose of 25 mg/kg body weight for 60 days. Serum glucose, glycated hemoglobin, plasma insulin, hepatic toxicity markers, antioxidant enzymes, lipid peroxidation products, and liver histopathology were assayed checked after 60 days of extract treatment. Diabetic rats administered ABAEE showed a significant decline in serum glucose, glycated hemoglobin, and also significantly increases the level of plasma insulin, as well as a notable attenuation in thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances, conjugated dienes, and hydroperoxides. ABAEE also modulated hepatic antioxidant potential by significantly increasing the activities of catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, superoxide dismutase, and reducing glutathione content. The results associated with ABAEE were more significant than those observed following treatment with the standard drug metformin. Histopathological observations showed that ABAEE effectively rescued hepatocytes from oxidative damage without affecting cellular function and structural integrity. High-performance liquid chromatography analysis of ABAEE indicated the presence of phenolic compound, quercetin, indicating that the anti-diabetic effect of the extract might be related to quercetin. These results demonstrated the potential beneficial effect of ABAEE on streptozotocin-induced diabetes in rats.

CB-1R and GLP-1R gene expressions and oxidative stress in the liver of diabetic rats treated with sitagliptin

BACKGROUND

Type 2 diabetes is a major health problem affecting millions of people. Controlled eating and regular physical activity are important for the management of type 2 diabetes. Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 enzyme (DPP-4) inhibitor sitagliptin is a potent agent for the treatment of type-2 diabetes. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of sitagliptin on the liver of rats with streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes, in terms of (i) the expression levels of the cannabinoid 1 receptor (CB-1R) and glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor (GLP-1R), (ii) alterations in the number and localization of these peptides, and (iii) changes in histological and oxidative damage.

METHODS

Thirty-two neonatal (two-day-old) rats, which were divided into four groups, were treated with saline (control), sitagliptin (control; 1.5mg/kg/day for 15 days starting from day 5 of the experimental period), STZ (diabetes; 100mg/kg single dose), STZ+sitagliptin (diabetes+sitagliptin). After 20 days, hepatic tissues were obtained from rats.

RESULTS

The expressions of GLP-1R and CB-1R mRNA increased approximately 1.89- and 2.94-fold, respectively, in the diabetes+sitagliptin group as compared to the diabetic group. Additionally the number of GLP-1R immunopositive cells decreased and CB-1R immunopositive cells increased in comparison to the diabetic group; however, this was not statistically significant. Glutathione levels increased, but malondialdehyde and protein carbonyl levels decreased in the diabetes+sitagliptin group more than the diabetic group.

CONCLUSION

Our findings indicate that sitagliptin treatment regulates GLP-1R and CB-1R gene expressions, which are associated with appetite regulation in diabetic rat, and may decrease oxidative stress and liver tissue damage.

Apoptotic cell death in cultured cardiomyocytes following exposure to low concentrations of 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal

Lipid peroxidation (LP), induced by oxidative stress, is associated with degenerative processes. 4-Hydroxy-2-nonenal (HNE), a highly reactive diffusible product of LP, is considered by-product and mediator of oxidative stress. Its level increases under pathological conditions such as cardiovascular diseases. In this study, we partially characterized the mechanisms of HNE-mediated cytotoxicity in cardiomyocytes. After establishing that pathophysiological doses of HNE trigger cell death dependent on the incubation time and dose of HNE (LD50 = 4.4 μM), we tackled the mechanisms that underlie the cell death induced by HNE. Our results indicate that HNE rapidly increases intracellular Ca(2+); it also increases the rate of reactive oxygen species generation and causes a loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) as well as a decrease in the ATP and GSH levels. Such alterations result in the activation of caspase-3 and DNA breakdown, both characteristic features of apoptotic cell death, as well as disruption of the cytoskeleton. Moreover, the nucleophilic compounds N-acetyl-cysteine and β-mercapto-propionyl-glycine, and the synthetic antioxidant Trolox exert a potent antioxidant action against HNE damage; this suggests its use as effective compounds in order to reduce the damage occurred as consequence of cardiovascular disorders in which oxidative stress and hence LP take place.

Gut region-specific accumulation of reactive oxygen species leads to regionally distinct activation of antioxidant and apoptotic marker molecules in rats with STZ-induced diabetes

The aim of this study was to seek possible links between the regionality along the digestive tract and the accumulation of reactive oxygen species, the effectiveness of the antioxidant defense system and the sensitivity to the types of demise in different gut regions of rats with streptozotocin-induced diabetes. Significant changes were observed in the oxidative status and in the activity of the antioxidant defense system in the diabetic colon; the peroxynitrite production was doubled, the level of hemoxygenase-2 protein was increased 11-fold and the expression of anti-apoptotic bcl-2 was also increased. The segment-specific vulnerability of the gastrointestinal tract induced by hyperglycemia was also confirmed by electron microscopy, demonstrating the presence of severe necrosis in the colon of the diabetic rats. No remarkable histopathological alterations were seen in the duodenum of the diabetic animals and there were likewise no significant changes in the production of peroxynitrite in their duodenum, whereas the level of the free radical scavenger metallothionein-2 was increased ∼300-fold.

CONCLUSION

The spatially restricted vulnerability observed along the digestive tract could originate from a high level of oxidative stress via peroxynitrite production.

Immunohistochemical, apoptotic and biochemical changes by dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor-sitagliptin in type-2 diabetic rats

BACKGROUND

Diabetes is a major public health problem that is rapidly increasing in prevalence. In this study, the effects of sitagliptin, a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor, were examined on newborn diabetic rat model.

METHODS

Wistar albino newborn rats were divided into control (Ctrl), sitagliptin (Sit), diabetic and diabetic+Sit groups. On the second day after the birth, 100mg/kg streptozotocin (STZ) was administered intraperitoneally in a single dose to induce type-2 diabetes in rats. The Sit and diabetic+Sit groups were administered sitagliptin (1.5mg/kg subcutaneous) as of the day 5 for 15 days. The pancreas sections were stained with insulin (INS), glucagon (GLU), somatostatin (SS), glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R) antibodies by the streptavidin-biotin peroxidase technique. The TUNEL method for apoptosis and biochemical analysis were performed in the pancreas and serum, respectively.

RESULTS

Body weight and blood glucose levels showed significant differences among all groups on days 11 and 20. In diabetic rats following treatment with sitagliptin, the area percentage of INS immunopositive cells increased while the area percentage of SS immunopositive cells decreased, insignificantly. A significant increase was observed on the area percentage of GLU, GLP-1 and GLP-1R immunopositive cells in the diabetic+Sit group when compared to the diabetic group. The area percentage of apoptotic cells was the same among all groups. While serum glutathione and malondialdehyde levels demonstrated insignificant alterations, the catalase and superoxide dismutase activity significantly changed among four groups.

CONCLUSION

According to our findings, sitagliptin may be a useful therapeutic agent to a certain extent of type-2 diabetic condition.

Effect of virgin coconut oil enriched diet on the antioxidant status and paraoxonase 1 activity in ameliorating the oxidative stress in rats - a comparative study

Virgin coconut oil (VCO) extracted by wet processing is popular among the scientific field and society nowadays. The present study was carried out to examine the comparative effect of VCO with copra oil (CO), olive oil (OO) and sunflower oil (SFO) on endogenous antioxidant status and paraoxonase 1 activity in ameliorating the oxidative stress in rats. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were fed different oils at 8% level for 45 days along with the synthetic diet. Results revealed that dietary VCO improved the antioxidant status compared to other three oil fed groups (P < 0.05), which is evident from the increased activities of catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase in tissues. Concentration of reduced glutathione was also found to be increased significantly in liver (532.97 mM per 100 g liver), heart (15.77 mM per 100 g heart) and kidney (1.58 mM per 100 g kidney) of VCO fed rats compared to those fed with CO, OO and SFO (P < 0.05). In addition, the activity of paraoxonase 1 was significantly increased in VCO fed rats compared to other oil fed groups (P < 0.05). Furthermore, VCO administration prevented the oxidative stress, which is indicated by the decreased formation of lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation products like malondialdehyde, hydroperoxides, conjugated dienes and protein carbonyls in serum and tissues compared to other oil fed rats (P < 0.05). Wet processing of VCO retains higher amounts of biologically active unsaponifiable components like polyphenols (84 mg per 100 g oil) and tocopherols (33.12 μg per 100 g oil) etc. compared to other oils (P < 0.05). From these observations, it is concluded that VCO has a beneficial role in improving antioxidant status and hence preventing lipid and protein oxidation.

Pharmacological potentials of Syzygium cumini: a review

In the last few years there has been an exponential growth in the field of herbal medicine, and these drugs are gaining popularity in both developing and developed countries because of their natural origin and lesser side effects. Syzygium cumini (syn. Eugenia jambolana, Syzygium jambolana, Eugenia cumini, Syzygium jambos), commonly known as jamun in India, is an evergreen tree distributed throughout the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia and East Africa. It is mainly utilised as a fruit producer and for its timber. Medicinally, the fruit is reported to have antidiabetic, antihyperlipidaemic, antioxidant, antiulcer, hepatoprotective, antiallergic, antiarthritic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antifertility, antipyretic, antiplaque, radioprotective, neuropsychopharmacological, nephroprotective and antidiarrhoeal activities. Among these beneficial physiological effects, the antidiabetic property of S. cumini has the most promising nutraceutical value. The health-beneficial effects of S. cumini are mainly attributed to various phytoconstituents such as tannins, alkaloids, steroids, flavonoids, terpenoids, fatty acids, phenols, minerals, carbohydrates and vitamins present in the fruit. This review paper presents an overview of experimental evidence for the pharmacological potential of S. cumini.

N. A multigrain protein enriched diet mitigates fluoride toxicity

Fluorosis is a major health problem in many parts of the world. The present work focuses on investigating the utility of nutrient and antioxidant rich grains- ragi, jowar, bajra, maize in formulation of basal, high carbohydrate low protein and low carbohydrate high protein diets in mitigating fluoride toxicity. Exposure to fluoride through drinking water not only significantly increased plasma glucose and lipid profiles, but also elevated both hepatic and renal lipid peroxidation, hepatic lipid profiles and G-6-Pase activity with a reduction in plasma HDL-C, hepatic glycogen content, hexokinase activity and antioxidant status. Even though basal and high carbohydrate diets did not significantly alter plasma glucose, lipid profiles in fluoride administered animals, protein enriched multigrain diet significantly decreased plasma glucose and lipid levels. However, the multigrain basal and high carbohydrate diets influenced the hepatic glycogen, lipid profiles, hexokinase and G-6-Pase activities, hepatic and renal lipid peroxidation and antioxidant status though not as significantly as that of multigrain diet enriched with protein. Thus the results of the present study indicate that both a multigrain diet rich in nutrients and antioxidants, and fortified with protein is useful in mitigating the fluoride toxicity.

Modulating effects of hesperidin on key carbohydrate-metabolizing enzymes, lipid profile, and membrane-bound adenosine triphosphatases against 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene-induced breast carcinogenesis

The aim of this study was to document the effect of hesperidin on the key enzyme activities of carbohydrate metabolism, lipid profile, and membrane-bound adenosine triphosphatases (ATPases) during 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA)-induced breast carcinogenesis. Hesperidin has been reported to have multiple biological properties. Breast cancer was induced by single dose of DMBA (20 mg/kg body weight (bw)). The results revealed that there was a significant increase in the activities of hexokinase, phosphoglucoisomerase, and aldolase and a concomitant decrease in the activities of glucose-6-phosphatase and fructose-1,6-diphosphatase in cancer-induced animals. The activities of ATPases were found to be decreased both in erythrocyte membrane and in the liver of mammary cancer-bearing animals. The lipid profiles such as total cholesterol, free cholesterol, phospholipids, triglycerides, and free fatty acids significantly increased and in contrast the ester cholesterol in plasma was found to be decreased, whereas it was found to be elevated in the liver of cancer-bearing groups. The altered levels of the above-mentioned biochemical parameters in cancer-bearing animals were significantly ameliorated by the administration of hesperidin at the dosage of 30 mg/kg bw for 45 days. The histopathological analysis of breast and liver tissues were well supported the modulatory property of hesperidin, and this might be associated with normalizing the gluconeogenesis process, stabilization of cell membranes, and modulation of lipid biosynthesis.

Alterations in kidney tissue following zinc supplementation to STZ-induced diabetic rats

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease characterized by anomalies forming in carbohydrate, lipid, protein metabolisms and the incidence of this disease varies widely throughout the world. Zinc is an important element which is essential for life and is present in nature. In this study, the animals were divided into four groups. These groups were named as untreated; zinc sulfate; streptozotocin (STZ); STZ and zinc sulfate. STZ (65 mg/kg) was dissolved in a freshly prepared 0.01 M pH 4.5 citrate buffer and given with intraperitoneal injection in a single dose. Zinc sulfate (100mg/kg) was dissolved in distilled water and given to the animals by gavage at a daily dose for 60 days. The rats were sacrificed under ether anesthesia. This study was aimed to investigate histological and biochemical changes of zinc supplementation on the kidney tissue in STZ-induced diabetic rats. In the current study, histological and histochemical observations showed that the occurred degenerative changes decreased after giving zinc in the kidney tissue of diabetic group. Kidney glutathione (GSH) levels decreased and lipid peroxidation (LPO), nonenzymatic glycosylation (NEG), urea and creatinine levels increased in diabetic rats. GSH levels increased, while LPO, NEG, urea and creatinine levels decreased in the kidney with administration of zinc to diabetic rats. As a result, we observed curative effects of zinc given to diabetic rats. We can say that zinc may be an important antioxidant for the treatment of secondary complications of diabetes in kidney tissue.

Antidiabetic Potentials of a Novel Polyherbal Preparation Formulated According to Principles of Siddha System of Medicine

According to the principles of Siddha system of medicine, the following polyherbal preparation consisting of 5 plant parts in equal ratio namely, Asparagus racemosus, Emblica officinalis, Salacia oblonga, Syzygium aromaticum, and Tinospora cordifolia was formulated to treat experimental type 2 diabetic rats. So, using plants having aphrodisiac property in the formulation is a rational approach and first of its kind, as there have been no reports so far. Phenolics and other bioactive compounds present in polyherbal preparation may be responsible for lipid-lowering effects and strong antioxidant activity. Polyherbal preparation treatment reverted the activities of glycolytic and gluconeogenic enzymes that are disturbed in diabetic rats. It is concluded that polyherbal preparation treatment improves deranged lipid profile, antioxidant status, glycogen content, and decreases lipid peroxidation, which provides stability to membrane integrity and thus favors insulin receptor to achieve better glucose tolerance through a holistic approach.

Regulation of gene expression and biochemical changes in small intestine of newborn diabetic rats by exogenous ghrelin

The aim of this study was to investigate (i) the cholecystokinin, somatostatin and apelin mRNA levels, (ii) the changes in levels and localization of these peptides, (iii) relation between these peptides, (iv) antiapoptotic effects and (v) antioxidant effects of ghrelin. The rats were divided into four groups second day after birth. These groups were respectively treated with physiological saline, ghrelin (100μg/kg/day), streptozotocin (100mg/kg), ghrelin and streptozotocin. After four weeks, small intestine and blood samples were taken from rats. Cholecystokinin mRNA and peptide, somatostatin mRNA, release to duodenal lumen of apelin peptide and apelin mRNA signals decreased in ghrelin-treated diabetic rats compared to the diabetic group. There was no statistically significant difference among the four groups for somatostatin and apelin peptides. Caspase-3 signals were not observed only in diabetic group treated with ghrelin. Caspase-8 signals were increased while PCNA signals were decreased in diabetic group given ghrelin compared to diabetic group. Small intestine CAT, SOD, GP(x) and GST activities and GSH levels were decreased and LPO, PC levels were increased in diabetic rats. Administration of ghrelin to diabetic rats caused an increase in intestinal CAT, SOD, GP(x) and GST activities and GSH levels, while PC levels decreased. As a result, we observed positive changes in diabetic rats treated with ghrelin in both microscopic and biochemical studies. We can suggest that ghrelin may be an important hormone for the treatment of diabetes.

Anti-inflammatory and antioxidative effects of mucilage of Trigonella foenum graecum (Fenugreek) on adjuvant induced arthritic rats

The aim of this study was to investigate anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of mucilage from fenugreek in adjuvant induced arthritis in rats. Arthritis was induced by intradermal injection of complete Freund's adjuvant into the right hind paw produce inflammation of the joint. The activities of inflammatory enzymes like cyclooxygenase, lipoxygenase and myeloperoxidase, and levels of nitrite and C-reactive protein were observed. Also oxidative stress was measured by analyzing the activity of catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and the levels of glutathione and vitamin C and lipid peroxidation. The blood parameters like ESR, total WBC, RBC and hemoglobin content was checked. Fenugreek mucilage exhibited maximum percentage of edema inhibition at a dose of 75 mg/kg on 21st day of adjuvant arthritis. The effect was higher than that of standard drug indomethacin. The activities of cyclooxygenase-2 and myeloperoxidase and concentration of thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) were decreased and the activities of antioxidant enzymes, vitamins C and reduced glutathione level were increased on treatment with fenugreek mucilage. The increment in ESR and total WBC, reduction in RBC count and hemoglobin and aberrant changes to the C-reactive protein (CRP) levels observed in the arthritic animals were also found to be significantly restored in fenugreek mucilage treated rats. Histopathology of paw tissue showed decreased edema formation and cellular infiltration on supplementation with fenugreek mucilage. Thus the results demonstrated the potential beneficiary effect of fenugreek mucilage on adjuvant induced arthritis in rats.

Antioxidative and hypolipidemic efficacy of alcoholic seed extract of Swietenia macrophylla in streptozotocin diabetic rats

The present study was designed to examine the antioxidative potential and antihyperlipidemic activity of Swietenia macrophylla in streptozotocin diabetic rats. The experimental groups were rendered diabetic by intraperitoneal injection of a single dose of streptozotocin (STZ; 40 mg/kg body weight, BW). Rats with glucose levels >200 mg/dL were considered diabetic and were divided into five groups. Three groups of diabetic animals were orally administered daily with seed extract (SME) at a dosage of 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg BW. One group of STZ rats was treated as diabetic control and another group orally administered 600 μg/kg BW glibenclamide daily. Repeated daily oral administration of S. macrophylla significantly reduced blood glucose levels after 45 days of treatment. The lipid peroxidation products such as thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and lipid hydroperoxides of SME treated rats decreased in the plasma, liver and kidney. Glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase and catalase activity were significantly increased in SME treated rats. Antioxidants such as reduced glutathione level in the plasma, liver and kidney and vitamins C and E levels in the plasma increased in SME treated rats. Total cholesterol, triglycerides, phospholipids and free fatty acids and lipoproteins levels increased. Altered lipid profile of treated rats lead to normality with treatment of S. macrophylla. Thus, our results indicate that the administration of 100 mg/kg BW SME restores near normal blood glucose, redox status and lipid profile in STZ-diabetic rats.

Effect of pineal proteins at different dose level on fluoride-induced changes in plasma biochemicals and blood antioxidants enzymes in rats

Pineal glands secrets melatonin and various proteins and peptides which has many physiological functions. In keeping with this view, present experiment was conducted to know the effect of buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) pineal proteins (PP) at different dose level on fluoride-induced changes in plasma biochemicals and blood antioxidants enzymes in female rats. For this, we took 30 adult female Wistar rats (133-145 g body weights, BW) and divided into five groups (control, group I; 150 ppm fluoride (F), group II; F+ 50 µg pineal proteins, group III; F+ 100 µg PP, group IV; F+ 200 µg PP, group V). We administered fluoride (150 ppm, drinking water) and F+ pineal proteins at 50, 100, and 200 µg/kg BW, i.p. daily for 21 days. Blood samples were collected at the end of the experiments to estimate plasma glucose, proteins, F, lipid peroxidation (LPO), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and acetyl cholinesterase (AChE) activity. Red blood cells (RBCs) were separated for analysis of LPO, AChE, catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), reduced glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and glutathione reductase (GR) in different groups of animals. Total plasma glucose and protein level did not significantly change in F-treated rats. Plasma ALP and F level were significantly (p < 0.05) high in group II as compared with control and groups III, IV, and V. Administration of PP at different dose level significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the F concentration and ALP activity. Plasma and RBCs AChE activity was significantly (p < 0.05) reduced in F-treated animals as compared with control rats and significantly (p < 0.05) elevated on exogenous administration of PP (groups III and IV). Plasma and RBCs LPO level was significantly (p < 0.05) high in F-alone-treated rats, and PP caused significant (p < 0.05) reduction of LPO in groups IV and V. However, PP treatment in group IV brought better amelioration of F-induced high LPO than in groups III and V. At no dose level, PP-ameliorated F-induced depression of RBCs GSH, CAT, GR, and GPx level. Interestingly, SOD activity was elevated in dose-dependent manner at different dose level of PP in groups III, IV, and V than control and F-administered rats. These findings clearly indicate the beneficial effects of buffalo pineal proteins on fluoride-induced adverse changes in certain plasma biochemical and blood antioxidant systems of rats. It further indicates that PP has dose-dependent ameliorative function against F-induced adverse effects in plasma and blood.

Antioxidant and ACE enhancing potential of Pankajakasthuri in fluoride toxicity: an in vitro study on mammalian lungs

Fluoride toxicity occurs due to high concentrations of fluoride in water sources or anthropogenic causes. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of an Ayurvedic drug--Pankajakasthuri (PK)--in relation to fluoride-induced toxicity in mammalian lungs. The results indicated that sodium fluoride increased lipid peroxidation and decreased enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants in a concentration-dependent manner in lungs. The antioxidant potential of the lungs was suppressed maximally at 10 ppm fluoride concentration and PK at all three dose levels (i.e., 100, 200 and 300 µl) decreased fluoride induced lipid peroxidation (p < 0.05) and increased the levels of total ascorbic acid, superoxide dismutase, catalase, reduced glutathione, glutathione peroxidase and FRAP values significantly (p < 0.05) in a dose-dependent manner. When PK was examined for its effects on angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) activity, in fluoride-induced toxicity, the ACE activity was found to increase (p < 0.0001) in lung homogenates with all three doses. This study indicates that PK, an Ayurvedic drug, improves mammalian lung function by increasing antioxidant potential and ACE activity under the conditions of fluoride toxicity.

In vivo antioxidant and hypolipidemic effect OF Cardiospermum halicacabum leaf extract in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

In this study we investigated the antioxidant and antihyperlipidemic of an ethanolic leaf extract of Cardiospermum halicacabum (CHE) in plasma and tissues of streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. The plasma and tissue concentrations of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and lipid hydroperoxide were significantly elevated in STZ diabetic rats. CHE administration decreased TBARS and lipid hydroperoxide levels. The plasma vitamin E level increased and the vitamin C level decreased. The reduced glutathione level significantly decreased in plasma and tissues, as did the activities of enzymatic antioxidants. The enzymatic and non enzymatic alterations reversed toward normalcy after treatment with CHE. STZ-induced diabetic rats showed significant increases in plasma total cholesterol, phospholipids, triglycerides, and free fatty acids, which returned to near normalcy in CHE-treated animals. Plasma LDL-C and VLDL-C increased and HDL-C decreased and both reverted to near normalcy following CHE treatment. We conclude that CHE possesses antioxidant and hypolipidemic effects in diabetic rats, which may be due to the presence of flavonoids, such as apigenin and luteolin in the extract.

Mitigating effects of antioxidant properties of Artemisia campestris leaf extract on hyperlipidemia, advanced glycation end products and oxidative stress in alloxan-induced diabetic rats

Artemisia campestris is used as antivenom and anti-inflammatory Tunisian folk medicine. Recently, increased oxidative stress was shown to play an important role in the etiology and pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus and its complications. This study was designed to examine the effects of A. campestris leaf aqueous extract (Ac) on alloxan-induced diabetic rats by measuring glycemia, lipid profile, lipid peroxidation (MDA), protein carbonyl content (PCO), advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP), activities of both non-enzymatic and enzymatic antioxidants. Results of our study showed an increase in blood glucose levels, total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c), a decrease in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c) level and disturbed antioxidant enzyme activities (CAT, SOD, GPx) in the pancreatic tissue of diabetic rats. Furthermore, MDA, PCO and AOPP were elevated in the pancreas of the diabetic rats. The administration of Ac to diabetic rats at a dose of 200mgkg(-1)bw resulted in a significant reduction in glycemia, TC, TG, LDL-c, pancreas LPO, PCO and AOPP levels, CAT and GPx activities associated with an elevation of GSH content and SOD activity in comparison with diabetic group. We conclude that A. campestris aqueous extract may be effective for correcting hyperglycemia and preventing diabetic complications.

Effect of curcumin on selenite-induced cataractogenesis in Wistar rat pups

PURPOSE

The present study was aimed at investigating the possible antioxidant potential of curcumin at a dose of 75 mg/kg body weight on selenite-induced cataract in experimental rat pups.

METHODS

Group I: Control rat pups receiving physiological saline; Group II: Selenite-induced group (15 microM/kg body wt); Group III: Selenite-induced group co-treated with curcumin (single dose of curcumin orally 75 mg/kg body wt); Group IV: Selenite-induced animals post-treated (after 24 hrs) with curcumin at a dose mentioned for group III; Group V: Rat pups were pretreated with curcumin (dose as mentioned in Group III), 24 hrs before the administration of selenite. Encapsulated lenses liver, kidney, and serum were analyzed for antioxidant enzymes and malondialdehyde, a marker of lipid peroxidation.

RESULTS

Intraperitoneal injection of sodium selenite (15 microM/kg body wt) to 8-10-day-old rat pups led to severe oxidative stress in eye lens as evidenced by enhanced LPO levels that led to cataract formation. Sodium selenite also led to decrease in activities of SOD, GST, GPx, CAT with simultaneous decrease in the levels of GSH, vitamin C, and vitamin E. Treatment with curcumin (75 mg/kg body wt) led to a significant decrease in the levels of LPO, enzymic antioxidants, and nonenzymic antioxidants, which were similar to that of control.

CONCLUSIONS

Curcumin suppressed selenite-induced oxidative stress and cataract formation in rat pups. The presence of oxidative stress in selenite cataract development and its prevention by curcumin support the possibility that the natural consumption of curcumin in food can help prevent the onset of senile cataract.

Potential antidiabetic and antioxidant activities of Morus indica and Asystasia gangetica in alloxan-induced diabetes mellitus

Herbal drugs are frequently considered to be less toxic and also free from side effects, than synthetic ones. Hence, the present study was designed to investigate one such combination of herbal drugs, Asystasia gangetica and Morus indica for their antidiabetic and antioxidant potential against alloxan-induced diabetes in albino rats. The effect of both individual and a combination of Asystasia gangetica and Morus indica on blood glucose and liver glycogen were studied in the diabetic rats. The study also assessed for the effect of selected plant extracts for their effect on Superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), reduced glutathione (GSH) and Lipid peroxidation (LPO) in the homogenates of the pancreas. The results of the present study attests significant antidiabetic and antioxidant potential for the selected plants individually and also in combination as a prominent decrease in blood glucose and liver glycogen was observed in the rats treated with the extracts of the selected plants. Similarly, the levels of the protective antioxidant enzymes like SOD, CAT and GSH were increased along with decrease in the LPO levels. The present study provides a scientific evidence for antidiabetic and antioxidant potential of Asystasia gangetica and Morus indica. Further studies to isolate bioactive compounds will pave the way to identify potential lead compounds for developing safe and efficacious antidiabetic agents.

Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of Jeevaneeya Rasayana: an ayurvedic polyherbal formulation on acute and chronic models of inflammation

The present study was aimed to establish the efficacy of Jeevaneeya Rasayana (JR), an ayurvedic polyherbal formulation, in adjuvant-induced arthritic (AIA) rat model with reference to mediators of inflammation. The methanolic (MJR), ethanolic (EJR), and water extracts (WJR) of JR were prepared and their anti-inflammatory activity in carrageenan-induced acute model was evaluated. MJR at a dose of 25 mg/kg showed significantly higher anti-inflammatory effect than EJR, WJR, and standard drug diclofenac. MJR also significantly decreased the paw edema in AIA rats. Activities of cyclooxygenase, 5-lipoxygenase, and myeloperoxidase were decreased significantly on treatment with MJR. Supplementation with MJR increases the activities of antioxidant enzymes and the level of glutathione content. The increment in the concentration of C-reactive protein, thiobarbituric acid reactive substance, and ceruloplasmin observed in arthritic rats were found to be significantly restored in MJR treated rats. Thus, the results demonstrated the potential beneficiary effect of methanolic extract of Jeevaneeya Rasayana on acute and chronic models of inflammation.

The plant extracts of Momordica charantia and Trigonella foenum-graecum have anti-oxidant and anti-hyperglycemic properties for cardiac tissue during diabetes mellitus

Oxidative stress is currently suggested to play a major role in the development of diabetes mellitus. There is an increasing demand of natural anti-diabetic agents, as continuous administration of existing drugs and insulin are associated with many side effects and toxicity. The present study was aimed to investigate the effect of Momordica charantia (MC) and Trigonella foenum graecum (TFG) extracts (aqueous) on antioxidant status and lipid peroxidation in heart tissue of normal and alloxan induced diabetic rats. In a 30 days treatment, rats were divided into six groups (I-VI) of five animals in each,experiments were repeated thrice. Administration of MC (13.33 g pulp/kg body weight/day) and TFG (9 g seeds powder/kg body weight/day) extracts in diabetic rats has remarkably improved the elevated levels of fasting blood glucose. A significant decrease in lipid peroxidation (p<0.001) and significant increase in the activities of key antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione-s-transferase (GST) and reduced glutathione (GSH ) contents in heart tissue of diabetic rats were observed (group V and VI) upon MC and TFG treatment. Our studies demonstrate the anti-hyperglycemic and anti-oxidative potential of Momordica charantia and Trigonella foenum graecum, which could exert beneficial effects against the diabetes and associated free radicals complications in heart tissue.

Vernonia cinerea L. scavenges free radicals and regulates nitric oxide and proinflammatory cytokines profile in carrageenan induced paw edema model

In this study, we evaluated the anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of the medicinal plant, Vernonia cinerea L (Asteraceae) using in vitro as well as in vivo models. Methanolic extract of Vernonia cinerea was found to scavenge the hydroxyl radical generated by Fenton reaction (IC(50)130 microg/ml), Superoxide generated by photo reduction of riboflavin (IC(50)190 microg/ml) and inhibited lipid peroxidation significantly (IC(50)130.5 microg/ml). The drug also scavenged nitric oxide (IC(50)210 microg/ml). Intraperitoneal administration of Vernonia cinerea was found to inhibit the PMA induced Superoxide generation in mice peritoneal macrophages. The administration of Vernonia cinerea to mice significantly increased the levels of catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione-S transferase in blood and liver, whereas lipid peroxidation activity was significantly decreased. It was also found that Vernonia cinerea extract significantly inhibited carrageenan induced inflammation, compared with control models. Down regulation of pro-inflammatory cytokine level and gene expression were also support the above result.

Antihyperglycemic and hypolipidemic effects of Costus speciosus in alloxan induced diabetic rats

Hyperglycemia, abnormal lipid and antioxidant profiles are the most usual complications in diabetes mellitus. In the present study, the antihyperglycemic, antihyperlipemic and antioxidant potency of an ethanol extract of Costus speciosus root was investigated in alloxan-induced diabetic male (Charles Foster) rats. Four groups of alloxan diabetic rats (n = 6) were administered orally with different doses of Costus speciosus root extract (150, 300 and 450 mg/kg BW) and a standard drug, glibenclamide (600 microg/kg BW), for 4 weeks. Two groups of rats (n = 6) served as normal and diabetic controls. While the diabetic controls showed significant abnormal carbohydrate, lipid and antioxidant profiles, administration of 150 mg/kg BW dose neither improved glucose nor lipid metabolism and antioxidant levels. Administration of 300 and 450 mg/kg BW doses, however, resulted in a reversal of diabetes and its complications. Both doses significantly brought down blood glucose concentration (26.76%, 34.68%), increased glycogenesis and decreased glyconeogenesis bringing the glucose metabolism toward normalcy. These doses also reversed the hyperlipidemia by reducing plasma total lipid (12.87%, 178.24%), cholesterol (21.92%, 30.77%) and triglyceride (25.32%, 33.99%) and improved hepatic antioxidant enzyme activities. The high dose (450 mg/kg BW) was found to have more potential antioxidant activities compared with glibenclamide. It is concluded that Costus speciosus root extract possesses anti-hyperglycemic, antihyperlipemic and antioxidative effects, which may prove to be of clinical importance in the management of diabetes and its complications.

Shengmai San reduces hepatic lipids and lipid peroxidation in rats fed on a high-cholesterol diet

Shengmai San (SMS), which is comprised of the medicinal herbs of Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer, Schisandra chinensis Baill., and Ophiopogon japonicus Ker-Gawl (2:1:2)., is a traditional Chinese medicine being used for treating coronary heart disease. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of SMS on the plasma and liver lipids, lipid peroxidation and antioxidant systems in liver and heart of cholesterol-fed rats. Rats were fed on a high-cholesterol (0.5%) diet (control group), high-cholesterol diet containing 2% SMS (2% SMS group) and 4% SMS (4% SMS group) for four weeks. The oxidative stress marker (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, TBARS) and antioxidant defense systems including glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), glutathione-S-transferase (GST) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities in rat liver and heart were evaluated. Results showed that rats fed with SMS-containing diet had reduced the H(2)O(2)-induced erythrocytes susceptibility to hemolysis, and 4% SMS feeding rats had higher plasma GSH concentration compared to the animals fed with the control diet. However, SMS had no effect on plasma lipids (total cholesterol, triglyceride and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol) and TBARS concentration. On the other hand, rats fed with the 4% SMS diet reduced the hepatic cholesterol and triglyceride contents. Fecal bile acid excretion was significantly increased in rats fed with the SMS-containing diet. Higher hepatic GSH and lower TBARS concentrations were observed in rats fed with the 4% SMS diet compared with the rats fed with the control diet. No significant difference in activities of GSH-Px, GST and SOD was found in liver and heart after the SMS treatment. Results from this study indicate that the SMS may reduce hepatic lipids and lipid peroxidation in rats.

The antioxidant role of pterostilbene in streptozotocin-nicotinamide-induced type 2 diabetes mellitus in Wistar rats

The antioxidant effect of pterostilbene on streptozotocin-nicotinamide-induced diabetic rats has been assessed. The activity of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione-S-transferase and reduced glutathione was significantly decreased in liver and kidney of diabetic animals when compared with normal control. There were significant improvements in these activities after treatment with pterostilbene at a dose of 40 mg kg(-1) for six weeks. The increased levels of lipid peroxidation measured as thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) in liver and kidney of diabetic rats were also normalized by treatment with pterostilbene. Chronic treatment of pterostilbene remarkably reduced the pathological changes observed in liver and kidney of diabetic rats. These results indicated the antioxidant property of pterostilbene.

Antioxidant potential of Biophytum sensitivum extract in vitro and in vivo

An extract of the medicinal plant, Biophytum sensitivum (L.) DC (Oxalidaceae), was evaluated for its antioxidant potential in vitro and in vivo. Biophytum sensitivum was found to scavenge superoxide radicals generated by the photoreduction of riboflavin and hydroxyl radicals generated by the Fenton reaction and inhibited in vitro lipid peroxidation at concentrations of 50, 95, and 20 microg mL(-1) (50% inhibition [IC50]), respectively. The drug also scavenged nitric oxide (IC50 = 100 microg mL(-1)). The extract also induced the dose-dependant scavenging of nitric oxide in culture. Intraperitoneal administration of Biophytum extract inhibited superoxide generation in macrophages in vivo. The administration of B. sensitivum to mice significantly increased the catalase activity. The extract produced a significant increase in glutathione levels in blood and liver. The levels of glutathione-S transferase and glutathione reductase increased and those of glutathione peroxidase decreased after administering the Biophytum extract. The results of this study indicate that B. sensitivum has significant antioxidant activity both in vitro and in vivo.

Effect ofVitex negundo leaf extract on the free radicals scavengers in complete Freund's adjuvant induced arthritic rats

The effect of the oral administration ofVitex negundo leaf extract on the levels of enzymic and non-enzymic antioxidants were studied in the adjuvant induced arthritic (AIA) rats The levels of antioxidant enzymes such as SOD, CAT, GPx, G6PD, GSH and Vit-C were estimated in various groups of the experimental rats. It was observed that the antioxidant enzyme levels in the AIA were significantly low when compared to normal rats. A significant decrease in enzymic antioxidant-SOD, CAT, GPx, G6PD and non-enzymic antioxidant-GSH, Vit-C were observed in the liver of AIA rats compared to the normal rats. These results suggest that the leaf extract ofVitex negundo possesses antioxidant activity.

Antioxidative and anti-diabetic effects of amaranth (Amaranthus esculantus) in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

The anti-diabetic and antioxidative effect of amaranth grain (AG) and its oil fraction (AO) was studied in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four groups after induction of STZ-diabetes: normal control; diabetic control; diabetic-AG supplement (500 g kg(-1) diet); diabetic-AO supplement (100 g kg(-1) diet) and fed experimental diets for 3 weeks. Serum glucose, insulin, activities of serum marker enzymes of liver function and liver cytosolic antioxidant enzymes were measured. The AG and AO supplement significantly decreased the serum glucose and increased serum insulin level in diabetic rats. Serum concentration of liver function marker enzymes, GOT and GPT, were also normalized by AG and AO treatment in diabetic rats. Liver cytosolic SOD and GSH-reductase activities were significantly increased, and catalase, peroxidase and GSH-Px activities were decreased in diabetic rats. AG and AO supplement reverted the antioxidant enzyme activities to near normal values. Hepatic lipid peroxide product was significantly higher, and GSH content was decreased in diabetic rats. However, AG and AO supplement normalized these values. Our data suggest that AG and AO supplement, as an antioxidant therapy, may be beneficial for correcting hyperglycaemia and preventing diabetic complications.

The effect of taurine supplementation on oxidative stress in experimental hypothyroidism

The purpose of this study was to investigate the oxidative status in experimental hypothyroidism and the antioxidant effect of taurine supplementation. Forty male Sprague Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups (group 1, control; group 2, control + taurine; group 3, propylthiouracil (PTU); group 4, PTU + taurine). Hypothyroidism was induced by giving 0.05% PTU in drinking water for 8 weeks. Taurine was supplemented in drinking water at a concentration of 1% for 5 weeks. Plasma (p < 0.05), red blood cell (p < 0.01), liver (p < 0.001) and kidney tissue (p > 0.05) malondialdehyde levels were increased in the PTU group compared with those of the control rats and were decreased in the PTU + taurine group compared with the PTU alone group. No significant changes were observed in glutathione levels of kidney and liver in the PTU group, but taurine supplementation significantly increased the glutathione levels of these tissues. Paraoxonase and arylesterase activities were decreased in the PTU group while taurine supplementation caused no significant changes in paraoxonase and arylesterase activities. These findings suggest that taurine supplementation may play a protective role against the increased oxidative stress resulting from hypothyroidism.

Alcoholic stem extract of Coscinium fenestratum regulates carbohydrate metabolism and improves antioxidant status in streptozotocin-nicotinamide induced diabetic rats

Alcoholic extract of the stems of Coscinium fenestratum, a medicinal plant indigenous to India and Sri Lanka used in ayurveda and siddha medicine for treating diabetes, was studied for its carbohydrate metabolism effect and antioxidant status in streptozotocin-nicotinamide induced type 2 diabetic rats. Oral administration of C. fenestratum stem extract in graded doses caused a significant increase in enzymatic antioxidants such as catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione synthetase, peroxidase, and glutathione peroxidase and in the nonenzymatic antioxidants ascorbic acid, ceruloplasmin and tocopherol. Effects of alcoholic extract on glycolytic enzymes such as glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, lactate dehydrogenase and hexokinase showed a significant increase in their levels, whereas a significant decrease was observed in the levels of gluconeogenic enzyme, glucose-6-phosphatase and alanine aminotransferase in treated diabetic rats. Serum creatinine and urea levels also declined significantly. This investigation demonstrates significant antidiabetic activity of C. fenestratum.

Oxidative stress and serum paraoxonase activity in experimental hypothyroidism: effect of vitamin E supplementation

Thyroid hormones are associated with the oxidative and antioxidative status of the organism. Since data on the oxidative status of hypothyroidism are limited and controversial, we investigated the oxidant and antioxidant status and serum paraoxonase/arylesterase activities in propylthiouracil-induced hypothyroidism and examined the effect of vitamin E supplementation on this experimental model. Forty male Sprague Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups (group 1, control; group 2, control + vitamin E; group 3, propylthiouracil; group 4, propylthiouracil + vitamin E). Plasma, red blood cell, liver, heart and skeletal muscle malondialdehyde levels were increased in the propylthiouracil-treated group compared with the control rats and were decreased in propylthiouracil + vitamin E group compared with the propylthiouracil-treated group. Vitamin E supplementation also significantly increased liver and kidney reduced glutathione levels in propylthiouracil treated animals. Serum paraoxonase and arylesterase activities were decreased in propylthiouracil treated group and vitamin E supplementation caused significant increase in serum paraoxonase activity compared with the propylthiouracil-treated rats. These findings suggest that hypothyroidism is accompanied with increased oxidative stress and vitamin E supplementation exerts beneficial effects on this situation.

Effect of fluoride intoxication on lipidperoxidation and antioxidant status in experimental rats

Fluoride is a potent enzyme poison. Thirty ground water samples from Vellore District, Tamil Nadu, India were analysed for fluoride content and it was revealed that the fluoride content of 24 samples were over and above the permissible limits. In the present study, the experimental rats were orally treated with 25 ppm of fluoride/rat/day for 8 and 16 weeks, respectively, and the levels of lipid peroxidation and antioxidant enzymes were studied to evaluate fluoride intoxication. An increase in the level of lipid peroxides along with a concomitant decrease in the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and reduced glutathione content were observed in fluoride administered groups of rats. The altered antioxidant status may be attributed to the increased generation of free radicals.

Protective Effect of Eugenia jambolana Seed Kernel on Tissue Antioxidants in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats

Oxidative stress plays an important role in chronic complications of diabetes. In the present study the antioxidant effect of oral administration of ethanolic extract of Eugenia jambolana seed kernel on tissue antioxidant enzymes and lipid peroxidation in liver and kidney of streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats was evaluated. Administration of seed kernel to diabetic rats significantly decreased the levels of blood glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin and increased body weight gain, plasma insulin and hemoglobin. The diabetic rats showed the low activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase and reduced glutathione content in liver and kidney, which were restored to near normal levels by treatment with the seed kernel extract. The increased levels of lipid peroxidation and hydroperoxides in diabetic rats were reverted back to near normal levels after the treatment with seed kernel extract. Diabetic rats treated with seed kernel extract restored almost normal architecture of liver and kidney and were confirmed by histopathological examination. The present study reveals the efficacy of Eugenia jambolana seed kernel in the amelioration of diabetes, which may be attributed to its hypoglycemic property along with its antioxidant potential. The antioxidant effect of Eugenia jambolana seed kernel was also compared with glibenclamide, a standard hypoglycemic drug.