The Potential Therapeutic Effects of Marine Algae (Ulva lactuca & Corallina elongata) Crude Extracts on Alloxan-induced Diabetic Albino Rats

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus, a metabolic autoimmune disease caused by the consequences of expanding urbanization on lifestyle, is the third leading cause of death worldwide. However, unpleasant side effects and insufficient glucose control are drawbacks of contemporary diabetic treatment. Due to the undesirable side effects of the currently available antidiabetic drugs, the investigation for an effective natural-based antidiabetic therapy is essential to combating diabetes and its adverse effects. Algae are currently gaining popularity in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic sectors due to their ability to produce a wide range of bioactive compounds. Seaweed extracts have been shown to have promising bioactive molecules with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and hypoglycemic effects, making them suitable for the treatment of diabetes. The study aimed to provide valuable insights into the potential therapeutic benefits of marine green algae extracts in the management of diabetes in Alloxan-induced diabetic albino rats. The induction of diabetes in rats occurred intravenously administrated via a single dose of Alloxan at 150 mg/kg b.w. Then, rats were divided into four different groups: negative control group; diabetic control group; diabetic treated group receiving green algae crude extract and diabetic treated group receiving red algae crude extract. Data analysis of the biochemical investigations was performed using appropriate statistical methods to determine the significance of algae extract on diabetic animal models after 6 weeks of treatment. Preliminary results showed that the administration of seaweed (Green and Red Algae) extracts significantly reduced the hyperglycemic, hypercholesterolemia, and hyperlipidemia levels in diabetic-treated rats as compared to the diabetic untreated rats. Based on the above findings, the current research provided antidiabetic activity of marine algae against diabetes and its complications.