Biogenic Silver Nanoparticles (AgNPs) improve oxidative biomarkers in Type-2 diabetic rats

What is it about?

Nanoparticles are reliable biological tools for curative purposes through their application in nanomedicine. The present study synthesized and characterized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) from Tetrapetra tetrapleura fruit. The investigation aims to examine the antidiabetic effect of the AgNPs using in vitro and in vivo models. Methods Briefly, the synthesized AgNPs were confirmed by the application of ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy, and five other techniques, viz; transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The in vitro model assay investigated the scavenging effect of AgNPS on 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), superoxide anion (O2ˉ), hydroxyl anion (-OH), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and α-amylase/α-glucosidase inhibitory activity. The in vivo model involving rats-induced type-2 diabetes with streptozotocin (STZ) was divided into six (6) groups of seven (7) rats each to assess antioxidative parameters. Results The AgNPs scavenged free radicals (DPPH) and moderately inhibited (O2ˉ), hydroxyl anion (-OH), reduced ferric to ferrous ions, and inhibited both α-amylase and α-glucosidase activity with increasing concentrations. Similarly, AgNPs ameliorated oxidative stress imposed by type 2 diabetes on the rats’ tissues, depleting total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and increased total protein composite and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) contents. The AgNPs enhanced catalase and superoxide dismutase, reduced glutathione (GSH), and, concomitantly, decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in the tissue homogenate. Conclusion These findings provide scientific evidence for the first time, finding the application of a biogenic compound synthesized from T. tetrapleura fruit in the treatment of type 2 diabetes.

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Photo by Meiying Ng on Unsplash

Photo by Meiying Ng on Unsplash

Why is it important?

Diabetes is a prevalent and chronic health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Research is essential for understanding the condition, improving treatment options, preventing complications, and ultimately enhancing the lives of individuals affected by diabetes.

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