In Vitro Effects of Some Plant Extracts and Chemical Substances (Acids, Metal Salts, and Vitamins) on Sorbitol Dehydrogenase Activity

Sorbitol dehydrogenase (SDH) is a metalloenzyme and belongs to the dehydrogenase/reductase enzyme family. It catalyzes the conversion of sorbitol, a sugar alcohol derived from glucose, to fructose in a reversible reaction. This reaction is part of the sorbitol pathway, which is an alternative pathway for glucose metabolism. SDH is found in various tissues throughout the body, including the liver, kidneys, and eyes. Dysregulation of the sorbitol pathway has been implicated in various diseases, including diabetic complications. In conditions such as diabetes mellitus, elevated blood glucose levels can lead to increased sorbitol production, accumulating in tissues and contributing to tissue damage, particularly in the eyes, nerves, and kidneys. Inhibitors of SDH may hold potential for the treatment of diabetic complications and other conditions associated with aberrant sorbitol metabolism. In our study, the inhibitory effects of various plant aqueous extracts and chemicals (acids, metal salts, and vitamins) on SDH activities were investigated in vitro. Among the plant extracts we used, it was found that red pepper inhibited the SDH enzyme to the highest extent. It was also observed that chlorogenic acid from acids, manganese(II) sulfate from metal salts, and vitamin B₂ from vitamins significantly inhibited the SDH enzyme. Overall, SDH plays a significant role in the context of diabetes and its complications. So, the plant extracts and chemical substances showing high levels of SDH inhibition may prevent complications resulting from diabetes and could be used to alleviate the side effects of the disease.