Modulation of antioxidant activities, markers of hepatic and renal dysfunctions in alloxan-induced diabetic rats by Combretum dolichopetalum

Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic dysfunction of insulin secretion exhibiting hyperglycemia with abnormalities in protein, fat and carbohydrate metabolism. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of Combretum dolichopetalum (CD) on hepatic parameters, renal indices and antioxidant markers of alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Twenty (20) male rats were used, and they were divided into four groups of five rats each. Group 1- Normal control received distilled water (non-diabetic control); Group 2- Diabetic control received distilled water; Group 3 and Group 4 are Diabetic rats treated with 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg of CD extract. There were significant decreases in the final body weights of Group 2 compared with Group 1 and an elevation of the body weights of Groups 3 and 4 compared with Group 2. There were significant increases in the blood glucose concentration of Group 2 compared with Group 1 and a reduction in blood glucose concentration of Groups 3 and 4 compared with Group 2. There were increases in the alanine amino transaminase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activities and serum total and conjugated bilirubin levels of Groups 2 and 3 compared with Group 1, but a reduction in the ALP, ALT activities and total bilirubin in Group 4. There was an elevation in the superoxide dismutase (SOD) the activity of Group 4. There were reductions in catalase activities and no change in the renal indices. The study showed ameliorating potentials on hyperglycemia, hepatoprotective activity and antioxidation effects.