Spirulina platensis improves insulin sensitivity and reduces hyperglycemia-mediated oxidative stress in fructose-fed rats

Abstract

Oxidative stress, hyperglycemia and insulin resistance are hallmarks of diabetes mellitus. The present study aimed to assess the antidiabetic activity of a local strain of Spirulina platensis produced at Pahou (Benin), known as “Spiruline Dou Bogan” (SPD), in fructose-fed rats. Glucose metabolism impairment was induced by feeding 8g/kg, body weight (bw), fructose solution orally to Sprague Dawley rats (n = 8) for 56 days, treated with SPD (18.75; 37.5 and 75 mg/kg, bw), and analyzed for plasma blood glucose, serum biochemistry and the markers of oxidative stress (Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power Assay (FRAP), Malondialdehyde (MDA), Reduced glutathione (GSH), DPPH radical scavenging assay. SPD concentrations, given orally for 42 days, significantly reversed the elevations in plasma blood glucose, MDA, and the reduction in kidneys glutathione activity. Oral administration of 18.75, 37.5, and 75 mg/kg doses of SPD also lowered serum Aspartate Aminotransferase (ASAT), Alanine Aminotransferase (ALAT), Triglycerides and Creatinine levels. SPD 75 mg/kg treatment in particular has significantly decreased serum Triglycerides level and increased HDL-Cholesterol levels, reversing the atherogenic potential of 56 days fructose administration. The consumption of S. platensis produced locally in Benin as a food supplement, easily accessible for low-income populations, may be helpful in the prevention and management of type 2 diabetes.
 Keywords: Oxidative stress; Spirulina platensis; hyperglycemia; insulin resistance, fructose diet