Biology and Medicine

Abstract

Effects of alpha lipoic acid on blood lipids, renal indices, antioxidant enzymes, insulin and glucose level in streptozotocin-diabetic rats

Ayodele O Morakinyo, Funmileyi O Awobajo, Olufeyi A Adegoke

This study investigated the effects of ALA on blood lipids, renal indices, antioxidant activities, glycemic control, and insulin level in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic in laboratory rats. The rats used were either administered alpha lipoic acid (ALA) (test group) or distilled water (control group) orally for four weeks after being confirmed diabetic. Timed fasting blood glucose (FBG) and oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) measurements were performed on days 0, 7, and 14. Serum collected from all control and diabetic rats at the end of the experiment were analysed for insulin, lipid profile, antioxidant, and lipid peroxidation indicators. Administration of ALA lowers the FBG in STZ-induced diabetic rats inspite of producing no significant effect on insulin level. ALA significantly improves on the lipid profile and renal functions in diabetic rats by reducing the low density lipoprotein (LDL), very low density lipoprotein (VLDL), and increased creatinine levels respectively. It also increased the activities of endogenous superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione (GSH), thus increasing body antioxidant capacity. Oral administration of ALA improves glucose regulation, increased the activities of endogenous antioxidants in combating oxidative stress under diabetic condition in experimental rats.