Effect of Aloe vera leaf gel and pulp extracts on the liver in type-II diabetic rat models

Abstract

The aim of this work was to investigate the effects of Aloe vera leaf pulp and gel extracts on the liver tissue of neonatal streptozotocin (n0STZ)-induced type-II diabetic rats. The diabetic rats were separated into four groups and each group was given the following samples by gavage, daily for 15 d: phosphate buffered saline (PBS; diabetic control), Aloe leaf pulp extract, Aloe leaf gel extract, glibenclamide. Liver tissues were examined histologically. The markers of oxidative stress: glutathione (GSH), non-enzymatic glycosylation (NEG) and lipid peroxidation (LPO), were determined in liver tissue. Biochemical parameters for liver function: serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and alanine transaminase (ALP) activities, were evaluated. All parameters were also determined in healthy (non diabetic) rats for comparison. In the diabetic control group, the degenerative changes in liver tissue were remarkable, while in the diabetic groups given Aloe pulp and gel extracts and glibenclamide, the damage to the liver tissue was decreased. The increase of GSH and the decrease of NEG and LPO in liver tissues with the treatment of Aloe gel extract, is consistent with the beneficial effect of Aloe. Serum ALP and ALT activities were also decreased in the groups given Aloe gel extract. It was concluded that Aloe gel extract has a protective effect comparable to glibenclamide against hepatotoxicity produced by diabetes if used in the treatment of type-II diabetes. © 2004 Pharmaceutical Society of Japan.