Evaluation of alloxan on induction of diabetes in albino rats

Abstract

Background: Alloxan-induced diabetes model is used as a “study tool” to elucidate the pathophysiology of the disease and much more as a “search engine” for antidiabetic compounds with better therapeutic characteristics. It was the first agent used in the category of chemically induced diabetes to create a model of insulin dependent diabetes mellitus. Other chemicals being streptozocin, dexamethasone, insulin antibodies-induced diabetes.Methods: Albino rats were divided into four groups with ten rats in each group. Alloxan monohydrate 2%, solution which was dissolved in 0.9% of sodium chloride (normal saline) as a diluent and given intraperitoneally to rats and blood glucose estimation made by using glucometer. Total 40 albino rats were taken and divided into 4 groups. 10 rats receiving normal saline were grouped as Group A, 10 rats received alloxan at a dose of 150 mg/kg as Group B, 10 rats received alloxan at a dose of 160 mg/kg as Group C and 10 rats received alloxan at a dose of 170 mg/kg as Group D.Results: Highest rate of mortality and alopecia were noted in group D receiving alloxan at a dose of 170 mg/kg whereas highest percentage of fluctuation in fasting blood glucose range was seen in group C receiving alloxan at a dose of 160 mg/kg.Conclusions: Such unpredictable response shows that alloxan is not ideal drug for induction of diabetes in experimental animal. Mortality, fasting blood glucose returning to non-diabetic range and alopecia are the chief drawbacks.