Xanthine oxidase-induced oxidative stress causes activation of NF-κB and inflammation in the liver of type I diabetic rats

Hepatic phospho-IKKβ and phospho-IκBα contents were increased in diabetic animals. This was accompanied by increased levels of NF-κB (p65 protein content) in liver nuclear extracts. Hepatic expression of NF-κB dependent inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, namely interleukin 1β, iNOS and interleukin 6 were markedly increased. Both diabetes-induced activation of NF-κB signalling cascade and subsequent over expression of inflammatory cytokines and enzymes were abolished by administration of allopurinol. Moreover, we found a significant neutrophil infiltration in the liver of diabetic animals. These events were also prevented by administration of allopurinol.