Evaluation of antioxidant efficacy of vanadium-3-hydroxyflavone complex in streptozotocin-diabetic rats

• Synthesis of a novel vanadium complex using an organic ligand, 3-hydroxyflavone.
• The complex, vanadium-flavonol possesses significant antidiabetic activity.
• The complex attenuates oxidative stress by improving the antioxidant status.

Since 1985, when Heyliger et al., first demonstrated that oral administration of sodium orthovanadate (0.8 mg/ml) to STZ induced diabetic rats resulted in normoglycemia, numerous extensive studies have been reported on the antidiabetic actions of vanadium. The acceptance of vanadium compounds as promising therapeutic antidiabetic drugs has been slowed due to the concern for chronic toxicity associated with vanadium accumulation. In order to circumvent the toxic effects of vanadium, a combinational approach wherein a novel V3HF complex was synthesized, characterized and its toxic as well as antidiabetic potential were evaluated in STZ diabetic rats. Experimental and clinical studies suggest that hyperglycemia-induced oxidative stress primarily contributes to the pathogenesis and progression of both primary as well as secondary complications of diabetes. It is possible to reduce the risks caused by excessive generation of free radicals by either enhancing the body’s natural antioxidant defenses or by supplementing with proven antioxidants. The present study was aimed to study the role of V3HF complex on hyperglycemia mediated oxidative stress in STZ-diabetic rats and the results indicate that the complex improves pancreatic beta cell function. Histological and ultrastructural studies also evidenced that the complex protect the beta cells from hyperglycemia-induced oxidative stress.

Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide