ANTIDIABETIC EFFICACY OF DUNALIELLA SALINA EXTRACT IN STZ-INDUCED DIABETIC RATS

Abstract

The hypoglycemic role of Dunaliella salina in comparison with the reference antidiabetic drug glibenclamide was studied. Rats were intraperitoneally injected with a single dose of STZ (45 mg/kg body weight). D. salina ethanolic extract was administrated to rats at a dose 150 mg/kg body weight. Specific biochemical parameters were studied including blood glucose level, pancreatic function; α-amylase, liver function enzymes; alanine and aspartate aminotransferases (ALT, AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP). Beside, oxidative stress biomarkers including nitrite level (NO), lipid peroxidation (MDA), glutathione levels (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), were determined. In addition, total protein content and albumin level were evaluated. The results clearly indicated significant increment in blood glucose level, AST, ALT and ALP enzyme activities, NO and MDA levels in diabetic rats. While, α-amylase activity and GSH level were decreased in hyperglycemic rats. However, albumin level, total protein content and SOD activity showed no significant difference in diabetic rats. Liver and pancreas of diabetic rats at a cellular level declared degenerative changes, massive area of leucocytic cells infiltrations and congested central vein. Treatment of diabetic rats with ethanolic extract of D. salina significantly decreased blood glucose level , AST, ALT, ALP enzyme activities as well as NO and MDA levels. Also, enhancement in α-amylase and GSH levels was noticed as a result of D. salina administration to diabetic rats. Moreover, noticeable improvement in liver and pancreas architectures post treatment of diabetic rats with D. salina ethanolic extract. In conclusion, the oral administration of D. salina extract in STZ-induced diabetic rats could have promising ameliorating effects in controlling hyperglycemia, counteract disease and delaying its complication.