Sesamol Supplementation Mitigates Isoproterenol-Induced Cardiac Toxicity in Rats by Stabilizing Cardiac Mitochondrial and Lysosomal Enzymes

The current investigation was intended to evaluate the antimyocardial ischemic effects of sesamol on lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) isoenzymes, DNA damage, and mitochondrial and lysosomal enzyme activities in isoproterenol (ISO)-induced myocardial infarction (MI) in male albino Wistar strain rats. Rats that received ISO (85 mg/kg body weight (B.W) subcutaneously) for the first 2 consecutive days showed significant reduction in the activities of tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle enzymes (isocitrate dehydrogenase, α-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase, malate dehydrogenase, and succinate dehydrogenase) and respiratory chain enzymes (cytochrome c oxidase and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide hydrogen (NADH) dehydrogenase) in the heart mitochondria. The activities of the lysosomal enzymes (α-and β-glucosidases, α and β-galactosidases, β-glucuronidase and β-N-acetyl glucosaminidase and cathepsin-B and cathepsin-D) were increased significantly in the heart homogenate of ISO-induced MI rats. ISO injection also increased the % of tail DNA, tail length, and tail moment and decreased the % of head DNA. Pretreatment with sesamol (50 mg/kg B.W) every day for a period of 9 days prevented the above abnormalities induced by ISO. In conclusion, it can be inferred that administration of sesamol has a potent beneficial role against ISO-induced damage to the mitochondria, lysosomes, and DNA, thereby preventing MI.

Ursolic acid modulates MMPs, collagen-I, α-SMA, and TGF-β expression in isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction in rats

In the present study, the modulatory effect of ursolic acid (UA) on cardiac fibrosis and mitochondrial and lysosomal enzymes activity in isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction (MI) in rats were examined. Isoproterenol hydrochloride (ISO; 85 mg/kg body weight) was administered subcutaneously for first two consecutive days. ISO-induced MI in rats significantly decreased the activities of mitochondrial tricarboxylic acid cycle enzymes and respiratory chain enzymes while increased the activities of lysosomal glycohydrolases and cathepsins. The expression of matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2), MMP-9, collagen type I, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) were upregulated in ISO-induced MI in rats. UA administration to rats showed increased activities of mitochondrial tricarboxylic acid cycle enzymes and respiratory chain enzymes and decreased activities of lysosomal glycohydrolases and cathepsins in ISO-induced rats. Furthermore, expression of MMP-2, MMP-9, collagen type I, α-SMA, and TGF-β downregulated in UA-administered rats. Thus, our results demonstrate that UA has an anti-fibrotic effect and attenuates the mitochondrial and lysosomal dysfunction in ISO-induced MI in rats.

Effect of protocatechuic acid on lipid profile and DNA damage in D-galactosamine-induced hepatotoxic rats

BACKGROUND

Our aim in this study is to investigate the effect of protocatechuic acid (PCA) on lipid profile and DNA damage in D-galactosamine (D-GalN)-induced hepatotoxic rats.

METHODS

Hepatotoxicity was induced by a single intraperitoneal dose of D-GalN in male Wistar rats. The activities of hepatic markers and levels of kidney function markers were determined. The plasma and tissue lipid levels were estimated. DNA damage was determined by COMET assay. Histopathological examination was also performed using portions of the liver and kidney tissues.

RESULTS

D-GalN-induced hepatotoxic rats showed increased in the activities of hepatic marker enzymes such as aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and γ-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) in serum. The levels of kidney function markers such as urea, uric acid, and creatinine increased in serum. Levels of lipid profile such as total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), free fatty acid (FFA), and phospholipids (PLs) in the plasma and tissues (liver and kidney) were significantly increased in D-GalN-induced rats. In plasma, levels of very low density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-C) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) significantly increased, whereas high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) level decreased in D-GalN-induced rats. Furthermore, D-GalN-induced rats showed increased percentage of tail DNA and tail length and decreased percentage of head DNA. Oral administration of PCA (100 mg/ kg BW) for 20 days improved these levels when compared to D-GalN-induced rats. These biochemical changes were reflected on the attenuation and the structural alteration of the liver and kidney integrity.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the study suggest that PCA has a potent hepatoprotective activity that may be linked to its antihyperlipidemic effect.

Ursolic acid and rosiglitazone combination improves insulin sensitivity by increasing the skeletal muscle insulin-stimulated IRS-1 tyrosine phosphorylation in high-fat diet-fed C57BL/6J mice

The aim of this present study was to investigate the effect of ursolic acid (UA) and rosiglitazone (RSG) on insulin sensitivity and proximal insulin signaling pathways in high-fat diet (HFD)-fed C57/BL/6J mice. Male C57BL/6J mice were fed either normal diet or HFD for 10 weeks, after which animals in each dietary group were divided into the following six groups (normal diet, normal diet plus UA and RSG, HFD alone, HFD plus UA, HFD plus RSG, and HFD plus UA and RSG) for the next 5 weeks. UA (5 mg/kg BW) and RSG (4 mg/kg BW) were administered as suspensions directly into the stomach using a gastric tube. The HFD diet elevated fasting plasma glucose, insulin, and homeostasis model assessment index. The expression of insulin receptor substrate (IRS)-1, phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3-kinase), Akt, and glucose transporter (GLUT) 4 were determined by Western blot analyses. The results demonstrated that combination treatment (UA/RSG) ameliorated HFD-induced glucose intolerance and insulin resistance by improving the homeostatic model assessment (HOMA) index. Further, combination treatment (UA/RSG) stimulated the IRS-1, PI3-kinase, Akt, and GLUT 4 translocation. These results strongly suggest that combination treatment (UA/RSG) activates IRS-PI3-kinase-Akt-dependent signaling pathways to induce GLUT 4 translocation and increases the expression of insulin receptor to improve glucose intolerance.

Effect of Solanum surattense on mitochondrial enzymes in diabetic rats and in vitro glucose uptake activity in L6 myotubes

BACKGROUND

S. surattense is widely used in Siddha medicine for various ailments.

OBJECTIVE

The aim was to evaluate the impact of alcoholic leaf-extract of S. surattense on mitochondrial enzymes in streptozotocin (STZ) induced diabetic rats and to study the in vitro muscle glucose uptake activity on L6 myotubes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The male albino Wistar rats were randomly divided into five groups of six animals each. Diabetes was induced by intraperitoneal injection of STZ (40 mg/kg body weight). After being confirmed the diabetic rats were treated with alcoholic leaf-extract of S. surattense (100 mg/kg body weight) for 45 days. The biochemical estimations (liver mitochondrial enzymes, antioxidants, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances [TBARS]) and histopathological studies were performed. Further, the in vitro muscle glucose uptake activity in L6 myotubes and messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of glucose transporter-4 (GLUT-4) was performed.

RESULTS

In diabetic rats, the activities of liver mitochondrial enzymes were found to be significantly lowered. The mitochondrial TBARS level increased, whereas the activities/level of enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants decreased in diabetic rats. Administration of S. surattense to diabetic rats significantly reversed the above parameters toward normalcy. Furthermore in diabetic rats, the histopathological studies showed growth of adipose tissue and shrinkage of islets in the pancreas, liver showed fatty change with mild inflammation of portal triad, and kidney showed messangial capillary proliferation of glomeruli and fatty infiltration of tubules. Treatment with S. surattense brought back these changes to near normalcy. The extract was analyzed for in vitro muscle glucose uptake activity in L6 myotubes and mRNA expression of GLUT-4 by semi-quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. One nano gram per millilitre of S. surattense leaf-extract gave 115% glucose uptake on L6 myotubes. It also showed elevated levels of GLUT-4 mRNA transcripts, when compared with control cells.

CONCLUSION

These studies strongly support the anti-diabetic nature of S. surattense.

RETRACTED: Combination of carvacrol and rosiglitazone ameliorates high fat diet induced changes in lipids and inflammatory markers in C57BL/6J mice

This article has been retracted: please see Elsevier Policy on Article Withdrawal (https://www.elsevier.com/about/our-business/policies/article-withdrawal). This article has been retracted at the request of the Editor-in-Chief. Following concerns raised by Dr. E. Bik, the journal conducted an investigation and found evidence that there had been improper manipulation and duplication of images in Figure 4. The editors would like to thank Dr. Bik for her valuable insight in this matter. The authors have not responded to requests for an explanation of these irregularities so this article is retracted without their approval.

Effect of ursolic acid and Rosiglitazone combination on hepatic lipid accumulation in high fat diet-fed C57BL/6J mice

This study investigated the combined effect of ursolic acid (UA) and Rosiglitazone (RSG) on lipid regulatory genes in high fat diet (HFD)-fed mice. Male C57BL/6J mice were fed either normal diet or HFD for 10 weeks, after which animals in each dietary group were divided into following six groups, (normal diet, normal diet plus UA and RSG, HFD alone, HFD plus UA, HFD plus RSG, and HFD plus UA and RSG), for the next 5 weeks. UA (5mg/kg BW) and RSG (4mg/kg BW) were administered as suspensions directly into the stomach using a gastric tube. At the end of the study (106th day), their liver was analyzed for lipid content. RT-PCR and western blotting methods were used to analyze lipid regulatory genes. HFD-fed mice showed increased activities of hepatic marker enzymes (aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase) in plasma and an increased concentration of total cholesterol, triglyceride and free fatty acid in liver. These results were confirmed by upregulated mRNA expression of lipogenic genes such as sterol-regulatory-element-binding protein-1c, fatty acid synthase and acetyl-CoA carboxylase and downregulated mRNA expression of fatty acid oxidative genes such as carnitine palmitoyltransferase-1, acetyl-CoA carboxylase and peroxisome proliferator activated receptor-α in HFD-fed mice. Combined treatment (UA/RSG) significantly reduced the hepatic marker enzyme activities and decreased the lipid accumulation in liver. Furthermore, combination treatment (UA/RSG) down-regulated lipogenic genes and upregulated fatty acid oxidative genes in HFD-fed mice. This study suggests that UA in combination with RSG reduced lipid accumulation in liver.

Carvacrol ameliorates the PPAR-A and cytochrome P450 expression on D-galactosamine induced hepatotoxicity rats

BACKGROUND

Carvacrol (2-methyl-5-(1-methylethyl)-phenol) is a predominant monoterpenic phenol which occurs in many essential oils of the family Labiatae including Origanum, Satureja, Thymbra, Thymus, and Corydothymus species. It is well known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antitumor activities. The present study investigates the influence of carvacrol on CYP2E1 and PPAR-α on D-Galactosamine (D-GalN)-induced hepatotoxic rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The mRNA and protein expression levels of CYP2E1 and PPAR-α have been assayed by semi-quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and western blot analysis.

RESULT

The result demonstrated that the mRNA and protein expressions of CYP2E1(p=0.012; p=0.015) significantly up-regulated while the mRNA and protein expressions of PPAR-α (p=0.026; p=0.03) significantly down-regulated on D-galactosamine induced hepatotoxic rats and treatment with carvacrol significantly suppressed the mRNA and protein (CYP2E1, p=0.010; p=0.011) (PPAR-α, p=0.033; p=0.037) expressions of these genes.

CONCLUSION

Thus, the present results have shown that carvacrol has the hepatoprotective effect and also alleviates liver damage associated with GalN induced hepatotoxic rats by down-regulating the CYP2E1 and up-regulating the PPAR-α expression.

Effect of ursolic acid on cardiac marker enzymes, lipid profile and macroscopic enzyme mapping assay in isoproterenol-induced myocardial ischemic rats

This study investigates the antihyperlipidemic effect of ursolic acid (UA) on isoproterenol (ISO) induced male albino Wistar rats. Myocardial ischemia was induced by subcutaneous injection of ISO (85 mg/kg BW) twice at an interval of 24 h, for two consecutive days. A significant increase in the activities of the serum marker enzymes [creatine kinase, creatine kinase-MB and lactate dehydrogenease (LDH)], a prominent expression of LDH 1 and LDH 2 isoenzymes, increased levels of plasma total cholesterol (TC), low density lipoprotein-cholesterol, very low density lipoprotein-cholesterol, triglycerides (TG), free fatty acids (FFA), phospholipids (PL) and atherogenic index and decreased level of high density lipoprotein-cholesterol were observed in ISO-induced rats. The levels of TC, TG and FFA increased and the level of PL decreased in the heart tissue of ISO-induced rats. Further, there was an increased DNA damage (Comet assay) and myocardium infarct size as observed by staining with triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC). UA was administered subcutaneously for 7 days at a dose of 40 mg/kg BW. UA administration to ischemic rats brought all these parameters to near normality showing the protective effect of UA on ISO-induced rats.

Ursolic acid and rosiglitazone combination alleviates metabolic syndrome in high fat diet fed C57BL/6J mice

The aim of this study was to examine the combined effect of ursolic acid (UA) and rosiglitazone (RSG) on metabolic syndrome in C57BL/6J mice. Upon feeding high fat diet (HFD) C57BL/6J mice developed obesity, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia and hypertension. The male mice were randomly divided into six groups, and fed normal diet, normal diet plus UA and RSG, HFD alone, HFD plus UA, HFD plus RSG, and HFD plus UA and RSG, respectively. HFD fed mice showed increase in body weight, elevated plasma glucose and insulin. Activities of gluconeogenic enzymes such as glucose 6-phosphatase, fructose 1,6-bisphosphatase increased while the activity of glycolytic enzyme, glucokinase, decreased in the liver along with glycogen content. Total cholesterol, triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and free fatty acid levels significantly increased in the plasma, whereas high-density lipoprotein cholesterol significantly decreased in high fat diet fed mice. In addition, both systolic and diastolic blood pressure was increased significantly. Combined treatment with UA and RSG improved the above parameters towards normality and pronounced more responses than UA or RSG lone treatment. The inclusion of UA in treatment with RSG may reduce the body weight gain, one of adverse side effect associated with the RSG-therapy.

Effect of ursolic acid treatment on apoptosis and DNA damage in isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction

The present study was designed to evaluate the protective effect of ursolic acid (UA) against isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction. Myocardial infarction was induced by subcutaneous injection of isoproterenol hydrochloride (ISO) (85 mg/kg BW), for two consecutive days. ISO-induced rats showed elevated levels of cardiac troponins T (cTn T) and I (cTn I) and increased activity of creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB) in serum. Lipid peroxidative markers (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), conjugated dienes (CD) and lipid hydroperoxides (HP)) elevated in the plasma and heart tissue whereas decreased activities of enzymatic antioxidants (superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione-S-transferase (GST) and glutathione reductase (GR)) in erythrocytes and heart tissue of ISO-induced rats. Non-enzymatic antioxidants (vitamin C, vitamin E and reduced glutathione (GSH)) levels were decreased significantly in the plasma and heart tissue of ISO-induced rats. Furthermore, ISO-induced rats showed increased DNA fragmentation, upregulations of myocardial pro-apoptotic B-cell lymphoma-2 associated-x (Bax), caspase-3, -8 and -9, cytochrome c, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), Fas and down-regulated expressions of anti-apoptotic B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) and B-cell lymphoma-extra large (Bcl-xL). UA-administered rats showed decreased levels/activity of cardiac markers, DNA fragmentation and the levels of lipid peroxidative markers in the plasma and heart tissue. Activities of enzymatic antioxidants were increased significantly in the erythrocytes and heart tissue and also non-enzymatic antioxidants levels were increased significantly in the plasma and heart tissue in UA-administered rats. UA influenced decreased DNA fragmentation and an apoptosis by upregulation of anti-apoptotic proteins such as Bcl-2, Bcl-xL and down-regulation of Bax, caspase-3, -8 and -9, cytochrome c, TNF-α, Fas through mitochondrial pathway. Histopathological observations were also found in line with biochemical parameters. Thus, results of the present study demonstrated that the UA has anti-apoptotic properties in ISO-induced rats.

Antihyperglycemic effect of biochanin A, a soy isoflavone, on streptozotocin-diabetic rats

The study was designed to investigate the antihyperglycemic effect of biochanin A on streptozotocin-diabetic rats. Diabetes was induced in adult male albino rats of the Wistar strain, weighing 180-200 g, by administration of streptozotocin (40 mg/kg of body weight) intraperitoneally. Diabetic rats showed increase in plasma glucose and glycosylated hemoglobin and a decrease in plasma insulin and hemoglobin. Activities of gluconeogenic enzymes such as glucose 6-phosphatase, fructose 1,6-bisphosphatase increased and glucokinase, glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase decreased in the liver of diabetic rats along with glycogen. Oral administration of biochanin A (10mg/kg body weight) or glibenclamide (600 μg/kg body weight) in 0.5% dimethyl sulfoxide, for 45 days, prevented the above changes and improved towards normality. In addition, protection against body weight loss of diabetic animals by biochanin A was also observed. No significant effect was observed in normal rats treated with biochanin A (10mg/kg bodyweight). These results showed that biochanin A has potential antihyperglycemic activity at a dose of 10mg/kg bodyweight in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats.

Protective effect of Melothria maderaspatana leaf fraction on electrolytes, catecholamines, endothelial nitric oxide synthase and endothelin-1 peptide in uninephrectomized deoxycorticosterone acetate-salt hypertensive rats

This study was designed to investigate the protective effect of ethyl acetate fraction of Melothria maderaspatana (EAFM) leaf on electrolytes, catecholamines, endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and endothelin-1 (ET-1) peptide in uninephrectomized deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA)-salt hypertensive rats. Administration of DOCA-salt significantly increased the systolic and diastolic blood pressure and treatment with EAFM significantly lowered the blood pressure. In DOCA-salt rats, the levels of sodium and chloride increased significantly while potassium level decreased and administration of EAFM brought these parameters to normality. The levels of epinephrine and norepinephrine increased significantly in DOCA-salt rats and administration of EAFM significantly decreased these parameters to normality. DOCA-salt hypertensive rats exhibited significantly decreased L: -arginine and nitrite + nitrate levels and administration of EAFM brought these parameters to normality. DOA-salt hypertensive rats showed down-regulation of eNOS and up-regulation of ET-1 protein expressions in heart and kidney, and treatment with EAFM prevented down-regulation of eNOS and significantly down-regulated the ET-1 protein expressions. In conclusion, EAFM provides good blood pressure control by enhancing potassium and decreasing sodium levels, decreasing levels of epinephrine and norepinephrine, and preventing down-regulation of eNOS and significantly down-regulating ET-1 protein expression.

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.

Hesperidin, a flavanone glycoside, on lipid peroxidation and antioxidant status in experimental myocardial ischemic rats

Myocardial infarction continues to be a leading cause of mortality world-wide. Novel therapies are needed to treat the myocardial ischemia. This study was undertaken to evaluate the cardioprotective role of hesperidin on isoproterenol-induced myocardial ischemia in rats. Myocardial ischemia was induced by subcutaneous injection of isoproterenol hydrochloride (85 mg/kg body weight), for two consecutive days. Isoproterenol-administered rats showed elevated levels of cardiac markers (aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, lactate dehydrogenase, creatine kinase, creatine kinase-MB, cardiac troponins T and I) when compared with control and hesperidin treatment groups (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight). The serum levels of cardiac markers were significantly reduced at the doses of 200 mg and 400 mg. All further experiments were carried out at the 200 mg dose. Lipid peroxidation markers (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, lipid hydroperoxides and conjugated dienes) were elevated significantly in the plasma and heart whereas non-enzymic antioxidants (vitamin C, vitamin E and reduced glutathione) were decreased significantly. Activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione-S-transferase and glutathione reductase declined significantly in the heart of ischemic rats. However, after hesperidin treatment, all the above parameters reverted to normal levels. This study demonstrated that the cardioprotective effect of hesperidin on ischemic rats could be due to its anti-lipid peroxidative and antioxidant properties.

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.

Antioxidant and antihyperlipidaemic activity of protocatechuic acid on streptozotocin-diabetic rats

Oxidative stress in diabetes co-exists with a reduction in the antioxidant status, which can further increase the deleterious effects of free radicals. Hyperlipidaemia is one of the major risk factors of cardiovascular complications in diabetes. A study was undertaken to evaluate the antioxidant and antihyperlipidaemic activity of protocatechuic acid (PCA) on streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. The levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and lipid hydroperoxides (LOOH) were increased and the level of enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants decreased except vitamin E. Lipid profile increased in diabetic rats, whereas HDL-C level decreased. These alterations reverted to near control levels after the diabetic rats were treated with PCA. Histopathological studies also revealed the protective effects of PCA on liver and kidney. These findings suggest that PCA treatment exerts a therapeutic property by decreasing the oxidative stress and lipid profile. The effect of PCA was comparable to glibenclamide, a well-known hypoglycaemic drug.

Protective effect of sesamol against myocardial infarction caused by isoproterenol in Wistar rats

This study was designed to investigate the cardioprotective effect of sesamol on isoproterenol (ISO)-induced myocardial infarction in adult male albino Wistar rats. The heart damage induced by ISO was indicated by elevated levels of the marker enzymes such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine kinase (CK), creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB) and the levels of troponin T and I in the plasma. In addition, lipid peroxidative markers such as thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), conjugated dienes (CD) and lipid hydroperoxides (LHP) significantly increased in the plasma and heart. Activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione-S-transferase (GST) and glutathione reductase (GR) significantly decreased in the heart and (non-enzymic antioxidants) vitamin C, vitamin E and reduced glutathione (GSH)) levels significantly decreased in the plasma and heart in ISO-rats. Histopathological observations correlated with the biochemical parameters. Administration of sesamol at different doses 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg body weight intraperitoneally for 7 days prevented the above changes and improved towards normality; the 50 mg dose was more effective than the other two doses.

Antihypertensive efficacy of Melothria maderaspatana leaf extract on sham-operated and uninephrectomized DOCA-salt hypertensive rats

The plant Melothria maderaspatana (MME) has been used traditionally as antihypertensive and has been proven scientifically to possess high antioxidant and hepatoprotective activity. The present study has been designed to investigate the antihypertensive effect of ethanolic extract of MME leaves on sham-operated and uninephrectomized DOCA-salt-induced hypertensive male albino Wistar rats. A midscapular incision was made on each rat and the left kidney was excised after ligation of the renal artery. The surgical wound was closed using a suture. After one week recovery period, hypertension was induced by subcutaneous injection of DOCA-salt solution, twice a week, and the rats received a 1% sodium chloride solution as drinking water throughout the experimental period. After 6 weeks injection of DOCA-salt, systolic, diastolic and mean arterial blood pressure was significantly elevated as compared with sham-operated control. Treatment with MME significantly decreased theblood pressure. Thus, the results show that MME possesses antihypertensive activity in DOCA-salt hypertensive rats.

Antihyperlipidemic activity of 3-hydroxymethyl xylitol, a novel antidiabetic compound isolated from Casearia esculenta (Roxb.) root, in streptozotocin-diabetic rats

Casearia esculenta root (Roxb.) is widely used in traditional system of medicine to treat diabetes in India. An active compound, 3-hydroxymethyl xylitol (3-HMX), has been isolated, and its optimum dose has been determined in a short duration study and patented. In addition, the long-term effect of 3-HMX in type 2 diabetic rats on carbohydrate metabolism was investigated, and its antihyperglycemic effect was shown previously (Chandramohan et al., Eur J Pharmacol 2008;590:437-443). In this study we investigated the effect of 3-HMX on plasma and tissue lipid profiles in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Diabetes was induced in adult male albino rats of the Wistar strain, weighing 180-200 g, by administration of streptozotocin (40 mg/kg of body weight) intraperitoneally. The normal and diabetic rats were treated with 3-HMX (40 mg/kg BW/day) for 45 days. The levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, free fatty acids, and phospholipids were assayed in the plasma besides lipoprotein-cholesterol (high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), and very low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (VLDL-C)) and tissues (liver, kidney, heart, and brain). Total cholesterol, triglyceride, free fatty acid, and phospholipid (LDL-C and VLDL-C in plasma only) levels increased in plasma and tissues significantly, whereas plasma HDL-C significantly decreased in diabetic rats. Treatment with 3-HMX or glibenclamide reversed the above-mentioned changes and improved toward normalcy. Histological study of liver also confirmed the biochemical findings. Thus administration of 3-HMX is able to reduce hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia related to the risk of diabetes mellitus.

Effect of chrysin on hepatoprotective and antioxidant status in D-galactosamine-induced hepatitis in rats

Chrysin is a natural, biologically active compound present in many plants and possesses potent anti-inflammatory, anticancer and antioxidation properties. This work was designed to investigate the effect of chrysin, on the hepatoprotective efficacy in d-galactosamine-intoxication rats. d-galactosamine-induced toxicity was manifested by the elevation of serum hepatic marker enzyme activities (aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase) and the lipid peroxidation process and by decreasing the antioxidant capacity of the plasma, erythrocyte and tissues. Treatment with chrysin (25, 50 and 100mg/kg body weight) decreased hepatic marker enzyme activities and lipid peroxidation products such as thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, lipid hydroperoxides and conjugated dienes, increased the activities of free-radical scavenging enzymes superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase and the levels of non-enzymatic antioxidants reduced glutathione, vitamin C and vitamin E. These findings demonstrate that chrysin acts as a hepatoprotective and antioxidant agent against d-galactosamine-induced hepatotoxicity.

Antihyperglycemic effect of protocatechuic acid on streptozotocin-diabetic rats

Protocatechuic acid (PCA) (3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid), a natural phenolic compound found in many edible and medicinal plants, is a major benzoic acid derivative with a strong antioxidative effect, 10-fold higher than that of alpha-tocopherol. The present study is aimed at evaluating the antidiabetic effect of PCA on STZ-diabetic rats. Diabetes was induced in male albino Wistar rats by the administration of STZ (40 mg/kg BW, i.p.). PCA was administered orally at three different doses (50, 100, 200 mg/kg BW/day) to STZ-diabetic rats for 45 days. Diabetic rats showed increase in plasma glucose and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and a decrease in plasma insulin and hemoglobin (Hb). The activities of gluconeogenic enzymes like glucose 6-phosphatase and fructose 1,6-bisphosphatase increased whereas the glycolytic enzyme glucokinase decreased in the liver along with glycogen content. The oral administration of PCA or glibenclamide in saline, for 45 days, prevented the changes and improved toward normalcy. No significant effect was observed in normal rats treated with PCA. Thus, our results show that PCA at 100 mg possesses a potential antihyperglycemic effect that is comparable with glibenclamide.

Hypolipidemic activity of 18beta-glycyrrhetinic acid on streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

Diabetes mellitus is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular complications. This study was undertaken to investigate the effect of 18beta-glycyrrhetinic acid on plasma glucose and plasma and tissue lipid profiles in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Diabetes was induced in adult male albino rats of the Wistar strain, weighing 180-200 g, by administration of streptozotocin (40 mg/kg of body weight) intraperitoneally. Rats were randomly divided into seven groups. Group I: control animals (normal, nondiabetic animals), Group II: 18beta-glycyrrhetinic acid control, Group III: streptozotocin-diabetic, untreated animals; Groups IV, V and VI: streptozotocin-diabetic animals given 50, 100 and 200 mg 18beta-glycyrrhetinic acid, and Group VII: streptozotocin-diabetic animals given glibenclamide. The levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, free fatty acids, and phospholipids, were assayed in the plasma besides lipoprotein-cholesterol (high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C), low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) and very low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (VLDL-C)) and tissues (liver, kidney and heart). Total cholesterol, triglyceride, free fatty acid, and phospholipid (LDL-C and VLDL-C in plasma only) levels increased in plasma and tissues significantly, while plasma HDL-cholesterol significantly decreased in diabetic rats. Treatment with 18beta-glycyrrhetinic acid prevented the above changes and improved towards normalcy. Thus administration of 18beta-glycyrrhetinic acid is able to reduce hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia related to the risk of diabetes mellitus.

Antihyperlipidemic effect of carvacrol on D-galactosamine-induced hepatotoxic rats

Carvacrol (2-methyl-5-(1-methylethyl)-phenol) is a predominant monoterpenic phenol occuring in many essential oils of the family Labiatae including, Origanum, Satureja, Thymbra, Thymus, and Corydothymus species. The present study was designed to investigate the effect of carvacrol on D-galactosamine (D-GalN)-induced hepatotoxicity in rats. D-GalN-hepatotoxic rats exhibited elevation in the serum bilirubin level and the activities of the hepatic marker enzymes aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, and gamma glutamyl transpeptidase. In the plasma, increased levels of very low density lipoprotein cholesterol and low density lipoprotein cholesterol and decreased high density lipoprotein cholesterol were observed. Further, an increase in the levels of total cholesterol, phospholipids, triglycerides, and free fatty acids in the plasma and tissues of liver and kidney were observed in hepatotoxic rats. The administration of carvacrol for 21 days prevented and improved these parameters toward normalcy. The results suggest that carvacrol affords a significant hepatoprotective and hypolipidemic effect against D-GalN-induced-rats.

Anthropometric parameters, lipid peroxidation and antioxidants in auto-rickshaw drivers

Anthropometric and several biochemical parameters were estimated in smoking and alcoholic-smoking auto-drivers and compared with normal auto-rickshaw drivers and normal subjects. Auto-drivers had a lower height, weight, and body mass index (BMI) compared with age-matched normal subjects. Plasma thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), total cholesterol, TC/HDL-C ratio, and lactic acid increased significantly and ascorbic acid, alpha-tocopherol, reduced glutathione (GSH), hemoglobin, and HDL-cholesterol decreased significantly in auto-drivers when compared with normal subjects. Total cholesterol and TC/HDL-C ratio increased significantly in smoking auto-drivers; TBARS increased and ascorbic acid, alpha-tocopherol, GSH, and hemoglobin decreased significantly in alcoholic-smoking auto-drivers. Exposure of automobile pollutants associated with habits (cigarette smoking, alcohol) causes profound alterations in the levels of lipid peroxidation, antioxidants, hemoglobin, total cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, TC/HDL-C ratio and lactic acid.

Influence of Piper betle on hepatic marker enzymes and tissue antioxidant status in D-galactosamine-induced hepatotoxic rats

D-galactosamine is a well-established hepatotoxicant that induces a diffuse type of liver injury closely resembling human viral hepatitis. D-galactosamine by its property of generating free radicals causes severe damage to the membrane and affects almost all organs of the human body. The leaves of Piper betle L., a commonly used masticatory in Asian countries, possess several biological properties. Our aim is to investigate the in vivo antioxidant potential of P. betle leaf-extract against oxidative stress induced by D-galactosamine intoxication in male albino Wistar rats. Toxicity was induced by an intraperitoneal injection of D-galactosamine, 400 mg/kg body weight (BW) for 21 days. Rats were treated with P. betle extract (200 mg/kg BW) via intragastric intubations. We assessed the activities of liver marker enzymes (aspartate amino-transferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, gamma glutamyl transpeptidase) and levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), lipid hydroperoxides, superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, vitamin C, vitamin E, and reduced glutathione. The extract significantly improved the status of antioxidants and decreased TBARS, hydroperoxides, and liver marker enzymes when compared with the D-galactosamine treated group, demonstrating its hepatoprotective and antioxidant properties.

Effect of Umbelliferone on Tail Tendon Collagen and Haemostatic Function in Streptozotocin-Diabetic Rats

Diabetes mellitus is known to affect collagen in various tissues. Umbelliferone (7-hydroxycoumarin), a natural antioxidant and benzopyrone, is found in golden apple (Aegle marmelos Correa) and bitter orange (Citrus aurantium). Plant-derived phenolic coumarins have been shown to act as dietary antioxidants. In this study, we have investigated the influence of umbelliferone on collagen content and its effects on the tail tendon in streptozotocin-diabetic rats. Male albino Wistar rats (180-200 g) were made diabetic by intraperitoneal administration of streptozotocin (40 mg/kg). Normal and diabetic rats were treated with umbelliferone for 45 days. Diabetic rats had increased glucose and decreased insulin levels. Tail tendons of diabetic rats had increased total collagen, glycation and fluorescence, and decreased levels of neutral, acid and pepsin-soluble collagens. We have studied the effect of umbelliferone on haemostatic function because umbelliferone is also a coumarin derivative like the anticoagulant, warfarin. Diabetic rats had a significant decrease in prothrombin, clotting and bleeding time, and treatment with umbelliferone made these parameters almost normal. Our results show that umbelliferone controls glycaemia and has a beneficial effect on collagen content and its properties, i.e. collagen related parameters, in the tail tendon, which indicates recovery from the risk (recovery of animals from the risk of complications) of collagen-mediated diabetic polyneuropathy and diabetic nephropathy.

Cardioprotective effect of oleanolic acid on isoproterenol-induced myocardial ischemia in rats

This study was designed to investigate the protective effect of oleanolic acid (OA) against isoproterenol-induced myocardial ischemia in rat myocardium. Wistar strain rats were pretreated with OA (20, 40, and 60 mg/kg, s.c) for 7 days and then intoxicated with isoproterenol (ISO, 85 mg/kg, sc for 2 consecutive days). Heart were excised from the experimental animals and assessed for the activities of marker enzymes [alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and creatine phosphokinase (CPK)], the levels of lipid peroxide products [thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), lipid hydroperoxides (HP) and conjugated dienes (CD)], myeloperoxidase (MPO), lipid profiles [total cholesterol (TC), free cholesterol, ester cholesterol, triglycerides (TG), free fatty acids (FFA) and phospholipids (PL)], and membrane-bound ATPase enzymes (total ATPase, Na(+)K(+) ATPase, Ca(2 +) ATPase, and Mg(2 +) ATPase). Troponin T and I were estimated in plasma. Leakage of cardiac markers, elevated lipid peroxidation with increased lipid profiles and decreased activities of membrane-bound ATPase enzymes were confirmed the severe myocardial damage occurring as a consequence of isoproterenol-induced ischemia, and they also showed the significant improvement effected by oleanolic acid pretreatment. These findings provided evidence that oleanolic acid was found to be protecting rat myocardium against ischemic insult and the protective effect could attribute to its anti-oxidative, anti-hyperlipedemic, and anti-arrhythmic properties as well as its membrane-stabilizing action.

Isomers (oleanolic and ursolic acids) differ in their protective effect against isoproterenol-induced myocardial ischemia in rats

The efficiency and safety of oleanolic acid (OA) and its isomer, ursolic acid (UA) in myocardial ischemia are poorly documented. This study appraised the efficacy of OA and UA in protecting the heart against oxidative damage induced by isoproterenol, since oxidative injury has been investigated as a potential initiator of myocardial necrosis. The level of TBARS increased whereas the antioxidants decreased significantly in the myocardium of ischemic animals. The levels were brought back to near normalcy in OA and UA pre-treated rats by scavenging the free radicals and blocking the induction of lipid peroxidation. These findings provide evidence that OA and UA protect rat myocardium against ischemic insult and the protective effect could be attributed to its antioxidant property and/or to a strengthening of myocardial membrane by its membrane stabilizing action. Among the two isomeric compounds, UA showed higher activity than OA.

Effect of Melothria maderaspatana leaf-tea consumption on blood pressure, lipid profile, anthropometry, fibrinogen, bilirubin, and albumin levels in patients with hypertension

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effect of Melothria maderaspatana (Linn.) leaf-tea on blood pressure, plasma lipid profile, fibrinogen, albumin together with serum bilirubin and anthropometric measurements in volunteer participants with hypertension, because all these variables have been shown to influence vascular events.

SUBJECTS AND DESIGN

A total of 50 subjects-25 (mean age of 58 +/- 9.0 years; 12 were women) with mild-to-moderate hypertension (systolic blood pressure [SBP] >or= 140 mm Hg; diastolic blood pressure [DBP] >or= 90 mm Hg) and 25 normotensives (mean age of 48 +/- 8.0 years; 11 women)-were selected for this study. Plasma lipid profile, fibrinogen, albumin, serum bilirubin, and anthropometric measurements were measured at baseline and after leaf-tea consumption by the patient with hypertension for 45 days.

RESULTS

SBP and DBP gradually decreased and pulse rate decreased. The total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglycerides, and phospholipids levels decreased significantly and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and serum bilirubin levels increased after tea consumption in patients with hypertension. We also observed significant body weight loss and reduction in fibrinogen levels. There was no significant difference in plasma level of albumin.

CONCLUSIONS

Thus, M. maderaspatana leaf-tea consumption gradually decreased BP and showed beneficial effects on blood lipid profile, fibrinogen, bilirubin, and body mass index in patients with hypertension.

Protective effect of Umbelliferone on membranous fatty acid composition in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

Umbelliferone (UMB), a natural antioxidant, is benzopyrone in nature, and it is present in the fruits of golden apple and bitter orange. Earlier we evaluated and reported the effect of Umbelliferone on antidiabetic, antioxidant and antihyperlipidemic properties, and this study was designed to evaluate the effect of Umbelliferone on membrane fatty acid composition and histopathology of liver and kidney of control and streptozotocin (STZ) diabetic rats. Male albino Wistar rats (180-200 g) were made diabetic by an intraperitonial administration of STZ (40 mg/kg). The control and diabetic rats were treated with Umbelliferone and glibenclamide dissolved in 10% dimethyl sulfoxide for 45 days. Diabetic rats had decreased insulin and increased glucose, and increased levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, lipid hydroperoxides and conjugated dienes. The levels of palmitic, stearic and oleic acids increased and the levels of linolenic and arachidonic acids decreased in diabetic rats as compared with control rats. Thus, the saturated fatty acids and monounsaturated fatty acids increased and the polyunsaturated fatty acids decreased in diabetic rats. Diabetic rats had decreased liver weight and increased activities of alanine transaminase and aspartate transaminase; increased kidney weight and urine albumin, and decreased levels of urea, uric acid and creatinine in the urine. Histopathological studies of liver and kidney in diabetic rats showed fatty changes surrounding portal triad; enlargement of lining cells of tubules, fatty infiltration, large area of hemorrhage and lymphocyte infiltration. Treatment with Umbelliferone and glibenclamide reversed these changes to near normalcy. Our results showed that Umbelliferone has a protective effect on membrane fatty acid composition of liver and kidney as supported by antioxidant and antihyperlipidemic effects of Umbelliferone reported earlier as evidenced by improved histopathological changes, hepatic and nephritic markers, indicating recovery from the risk of diabetic complications.

Antihyperglycemic Effect of Umbelliferone in Streptozotocin-Diabetic Rats

The present study was designed to investigate the antihyperglycemic effect of Umbelliferone (UMB) in normal and streptozotocin (STZ)-diabetic rats. Diabetes was induced in adult male albino rats of the Wistar strain, weighing 180-200 g, by administration of STZ (40 mg/kg of body weight) intraperitoneally. Diabetic rats showed an increase in levels of blood glucose and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA(1c)) and activities of gluconeogenic enzymes such as glucose-6-phosphatase and fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase, and a decrease in levels of plasma insulin, hemoglobin (Hb), and liver glycogen and activities of glucokinase and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase. Intraperitoneal administration of UMB (10, 20, and 30 mg/kg of body weight) and glibenclamide (600 micro g/kg of body weight) in 10% dimethyl sulfoxide dissolved in water, for 45 days, produced significantly decreased levels of blood glucose and HbA(1c) and activities of glucose-6-phosphatase and fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase, while elevating levels of plasma insulin, Hb, and liver glycogen and activities of glucokinase and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase to near normal levels in STZ-diabetic rats when compared with normal control rats. Normal rats treated with UMB (30 mg/kg of body weight) also showed a significant effect on glycemic control. Thus, our results show that UMB at 30 mg/kg of body weight possesses a promising antihyperglycemic effect that is comparable with glibenclamide.

A pilot study of open label sesame oil in hypertensive diabetics

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of sesame oil in hypertensive diabetics medicated with atenolol (beta-blocker) and glibenclamide (sulfonylurea). This open label trial with two intervention periods comprised 22 male and 18 female patients, 45-65 years old, with mild to moderate hypertension and diabetes. Sesame oil (Idhayam Gingelly oil, V.V.V. & Sons, Virudhunagar, Tamilnadu, India) was supplied to the patients, who were instructed to use it in place of other cooking oils for 45 days. Blood pressure (BP), anthropometric measurements, plasma glucose, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), lipid profiles [total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglycerides (TG)], lipid peroxidation [thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS)], electrolytes (sodium, potassium, and chloride), and enzymic (superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase) and nonenzymic (vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, and reduced glutathione) antioxidants were measured at baseline and after 45 days of sesame oil substitution. The same patients were then switched over to other oils like palm or groundnut oils as their regular oils at random for another 45 days, and the investigations were carried out again at the end. Systolic and diastolic BP decreased remarkably. When oil substitution was withdrawn, BP values rose again. Body weight, body mass index, girth of waist, girth of hip, and waist:hip ratio were reduced upon substitution of sesame oil. Plasma glucose, HbA1c, TC, LDL-C, and TG were decreased. TBARS level was reduced, while the activities of enzymic and the levels of nonenzymic antioxidants were increased. Plasma sodium levels were reduced, while potassium levels were elevated. These results indicate that substitution of sesame oil as the sole edible oil has an additive effect in further lowering BP and plasma glucose in hypertensive diabetics.

Antihyperglycemic activity of Piper betle leaf on streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

Piper betle, an indigenous medicinal plant, has a folk (Siddha and Ayurvedha) reputation in the rural southern India. The present study was carried out to evaluate the effect of P. betle on glucose metabolism since it is consumed as betel-quid after meals. Plasma levels of glucose and glycosylated hemoglobin and activities of liver hexokinase and gluconeogenic enzymes such as glucose-6-phosphatase and fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase in control and streptozotocin (STZ) diabetic rats were assayed. Oral administration of leaf suspension of P. betle (75 and 150 mg/kg of body weight) for 30 days resulted in significant reduction in blood glucose (from 205.00 +/- 10.80 mg/dL to 151.30 +/- 6.53 mg/dL) and glycosylated hemoglobin and decreased activities of liver glucose-6-phosphatase and fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase, while liver hexokinase increased (P < .05), in STZ diabetic rats when compared with untreated diabetic rats. P. betle at a dose of 75 mg/kg of body weight exhibited better sugar reduction than 150 mg/kg of body weight. In addition, protection against body weight loss of diabetic animals was also observed. The effects produced by P. betle were compared with the standard drug glibenclamide. Thus, the present study clearly shows that P. betle intake influences glucose metabolism beneficially.

Antioxidant role of Umbelliferone in STZ-diabetic rats

The objective of the study was to investigate the role of Umbelliferone (UMB) on lipid peroxidation, nonenzymic and enzymic antioxidants in the plasma and liver of streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. Adult male albino rats of Wistar strain, weighing 180-200 g, were induced diabetes by administration of STZ (40 mg/kg b.wt.) intraperitoneally. The normal and diabetic rats were treated with UMB (30 mg/kg b.wt.) dissolved in 10% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) for 45 days. Diabetic rats had an elevation in the levels of lipid peroxidation markers (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), lipid hydroperoxides (HP) and conjugated dienes (CD)), and a reduction in nonenzymic antioxidants (vitamin C and reduced glutathione (GSH) except vitamin E in the plasma and liver, and enzymic antioxidants (superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) in the liver. Decreased level of beta-carotene and increased level of ceruloplasmin (Cp) were observed in the plasma of diabetic rats. Treatment with UMB and glibenclamide brought back lipid peroxidation markers, nonenzymic and enzymic antioxidants to near normalcy. Since UMB treatment decreases lipid peroxidation markers and enhances antioxidants' status it can be considered as a potent antioxidant.