Dietary supplementation of Muntingia calabura leaves ameliorates reactive oxygen species and malondialdehyde levels: clinical study on alloxan-induced hyperglycemic rats

Abstract

Summary: Background and aims: Kersen (Muntingia calabura L.) leaves are commonly found in Indonesia and are studied for their antidiabetic effect due to their high flavonoid and antioxidative capacity. Our study aimed to determine the effects of the dietary supplementation of kersen leaves extract on reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in hyperglycemic Wistar rats. Method: We used 44 male adult Wistar rats (Rattus novergicus) divided into four groups. Alloxan (100 mg/kg body weight) was used to induce hyperglycemia. Kersen leaves (500 mg/kg body weight) were given to two groups; one group was administered before and after the hyperglycemic condition, and only after the hyperglycemic condition was achieved in the other group. Results: Comparing ROS between groups after administration of kersen leaves extract on the last day after alloxan administration showed significant changes in ROS, P = 0.047 (P < 0.05). Regarding oxidative stress, the reactive oxygen species was positive correlated with malondialdehyde but was significant in only one group (r = 0.733, P = 0.024). Conclusion: Giving kersen leaves extract to Wistar rats with alloxan-induced hyperglycemia can downregulate ROS and MDA levels.

Keywords

• Muntingia calabura
• Hyperglycemia
• ROS
• MDA
• Diabetes