Proteolytic activity in the brain of alloxan diabetic rats: Presence of a proteolytic activator in the cerebral extract

BACKGROUND AND AIM Diabetes mellitus is known to cause neurological disorders due to impaired glucose metabolism involving decreased utilization of glucose by the brain tissues. The mechanisms responsible for failure of glycemic regulation in type-2 diabetes leading to neurological impairment need to be thoroughly elucidated. MATERIALS AND METHODS Type-2 diabetes was induced in albino rat models with alloxan monohydrate (40 mg/kg i.v.). Cerebral cortex and medulla oblongata were investigated 48 h after alloxan administration for the alterations in proteolytic activity. RESULTS Diabetes caused an elevation (P < 0.001) of blood glucose and also proteolytic activity in the brain. CONCLUSION Impaired glucose metabolism in the brain was the key factor which was responsible for the elevated (P < 0.001) proteolysis leading to brain dysfunction.