Molecular Biology: Open Access

Restoration of Liver Function Status in High Fat Diet Streptozotocin Induced NIDDM in Wistar Rats by Antioxidant Supplementation

Abstract

Chinaka NC, Monago-Ighorodje CC, Chuku LC and Agbawo EO

The study on liver function status of high fat diet and low dose streptozotocin (HFD-STZ) induced NIDDM in Wistar rats placed on antioxidant supplementation was monitored in vitro. Some antioxidant rich substances which include some minerals and vitamins, α-lipoic acid, cinnamon powder, curcumin (Meriva®), cordyceps, resveratrol, quercetin, D-ribose-L-cysteine were assembled together in appropriate (RDA (Recommended Dietary Allowance)) proportions into corn oil and stored 4oC for use. Liver and kidney function test were assayed using standard analytical grade reagents and kits as well as good equipment’s. Data analysis was done with SPSS version 20.0 and significant level was set at p ≤ 0.05. A total of five groups were created and used for this study. After induction of diabetes, the treatment lasted for a total of 12 weeks, with analysis carried out at the 4th, 8th and 12th week intervals respectively. Results obtained from assay of the functional status of the hepatocyte indicate that there was significant decrease (p ≤ 0.05) in enzyme activities of all groups with the exception of diabetic control group. Serum Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) and serum Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) activities of the treated groups, as well as normal control group where reduced significantly (p ≤ 0.05) when compared with the diabetic control group which increased constantly within the duration (4th to the 12th week) of treatment. However, significant increase (p ≤ 0.05) in serum Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) activity and serum total protein level was observed in the treated groups as the duration increase with the 8th week having the highest significant value. The results of direct and total serum bilirubin and albumin levels showed no significant difference (p ≥ 0.05) in all groups. Hence, the results obtained suggest that the antioxidant supplement might aid in the restoration of liver function status by reducing free radical generation and activity via increased antioxidant presence.