Watermelon seed extract inhibits protein aggregation and formation of advanced glycation end-products

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Glycation of proteins is a key element in the onset of diabetes consequences. The potential of medicinal plants to inhibit the progression of glycation complications provides a significant opportunity as an alternative therapy. METHODS: The effect of watermelon seed extract (WMSE) on antioxidant capacity was assessed based on radical scavenging activity and metal chelation activity. Further the inhibition of Advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) formation was assessed by using different sources of amine (haemoglobin, bovine serum albumin, G.K peptide) and sugar sources (δ-gluconolactone, methylglyoxal, ribose). Aminoguanidine (AG) used as standard drug. RESULTS: Due to the presence of various phytochemicals that could disrupt the chain of events and prevent the development of AGEs, WMSE demonstrated its potential inhibitory effects at every step of protein glycation. A key part of this response is the scavenging of free radicals produced by glycation. CONCLUSION: The WMSE may aid to give a protective effect against protein degradation caused by hyperglycemia, which may be helpful in the treatment of problems associated with diabetes.