Alloxan diabetes-induced oxidative stress and impairment of oxidative defense system in rat brain: neuroprotective effects of cichorium intybus

Background/Objectives: Diabetes mellitus impairs glucose homeostasis causing neurological disorders due to perturbation in utilization of glucose. The mechanisms responsible for failure of glycaemic control in diabetes need to be thoroughly elucidated and hence the present study was initiated. Material and Methods: Diabetes was induced in albino rat models with alloxan monohydrate (40 mg/Kg intravenously). Oxidative damage, impairment of oxidative defense and neuronal activity were investigated in cerebral hemispheres 48 h after alloxan administration. Results: Diabetes caused an elevation (p < 0.001) of blood glucose, protein carbonyl content (PrC) and lipid peroxidation. The brain level of the antioxidant enzyme, catalase (CAT), reduced glutathione (GSH) and acetyl cholinesterase (AChE) exhibited significant decline in alloxan-diabetes. Feeding with dried powder leaves of Cihorium intybus decreased blood glucose level to near normal level. Conclusion: Impaired glucose metabolism in the brain was the key factor responsible for the elevated oxidative damage leading to brain dysfunction in diabetes.