Protective effect of Berberis asiatica root on biochemical and histopathological changes in streptozotocin-induced diabetic Wistar rats

Abstract

Background: This study was designed to evaluate the effect of Berberis asiatica root extract (BAE) against streptozotocin induced elevated blood glucose level and other liver and kidney functions changes in adult male Wistar rats.Methods: Thirty male Wistar rats were divided into five groups of six rats in each (Groups I-V). Group I and Group II served as normal control and disease control, respectively. Group III received standard anti-diabetic drug glibenclamide (5mg/kg), while Group IV and Group V received the low dose (250mg/kg) and high dose (500mg/kg) of BAE. Serum blood glucose, SGOT, SGPT, ALP, total bilirubin, BUN, serum creatinine, TC, TG, HDL-C, LDL-C, and VLDL-C were estimated using standard methods. After collection of samples for biochemical evaluation, the pancreas from each animal was isolated and examined for histological changes.Results: BAE and glibenclamide treated disease rats showed significant (p <0.05) decrease in blood glucose concentration. Treatment with BAE at 250mg/kg and 500mg/kg in Group IV and V and standard drug glibenclamide in Group III showed significant (p <0.05) reduction in the level of liver function substances such as SGOT, SGPT, ALP and total bilirubin as compared to disease group, as well as showed significant (p <0.05) decrease in renal panel. Liver function parameters were significantly (p <0.05) improved in groups treated with BAE. Histopathological analysis revealed the protective effect of BAE against streptozotocin induced damage to islets of Langerhans.Conclusions: This study showed the destruction of islets of Langerhans and elevation in blood glucose level as well as alteration in other biochemical parameters were ameliorated by the effect of Berberis asiatica extract.