Effects of Gilaburu Fruit Extract on Cardiomyopathy in Diabetic Rats

Abstract

Objective: The effects of diabetes on cardiomyopathy have been well documented in the literature. However, the effects of gilaburu fruit, which possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, on diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) have not been adequately investigated. This study aimed to investigate the effects of gilaburu extract on DCM in diabetic rats. Method: Twenty-one male Wistar rats were divided into three groups. Diabetes was induced in the diabetic group with a single intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of streptozotocin (STZ) at a dose of 50 mg/kg. The treatment group received gilaburu extract (200 mg/kg, i.p.) dissolved in phosphate buffer saline (PBS) for 37 days, starting one week before diabetes induction. Serum CK-MB and CRP levels, cardiac tissue MDA, SOD, and IL-1ß levels, as well as histopathological changes such as hypertrophy, vacuolization, and fiber disarray, were evaluated. Results: Serum CK-MB and CRP levels were significantly higher in the diabetic group compared to the control group. The diabetic group also exhibited marked myocardial hypertrophy, vacuolization, and fiber disarray, along with increased MDA and IL-1ß levels and decreased SODactivity. In the treatment group, CK-MB and CRP levels were significantly reduced, histopathological alterations were markedly attenuated, and MDA, IL-1ß, and SOD levels improved to values close to those of the control group. Conclusion: Gilaburu extract exhibits both biochemical and morphological protective effects against diabetic cardiomyopathy. These findings suggest that gilaburu may be a promising therapeutic agent for the management of diabetic cardiomyopathy.