Neuroprotective Role of Wheatgrass Powder in Experimental Diabetic Neuropathy via Modulating Oxidative Stress Markers in Rat Sciatic Nerves

Objective: To evaluate the neuroprotective role of Wheatgrass Powder in Experimental Diabetic Neuropathy.
Methods: An experimental rat model of Diabetic Neuropathy was developed using 50 mg/kg i.v dose of Streptozotocin (STZ). Development of Experimental Diabetic Neuropathy by the end of 8 weeks of STZ injection was confirmed by assessing behavioral parameters like neuropathic pain, allodynia and motor deficits which are the important hallmarks of Diabetic Neuropathy. The effect of 500 mg/kg Wheatgrass powder on Blood glucose levels, serum lipid profile, behavioral biomarkers was assessed before and after the treatment. At the end of the study (8 weeks) sciatic nerves of rats were isolated and oxidative stress markers and structural biomarkers of DN in treated and untreated groups were estimated.
Results: STZ caused hyperglycemia induced oxidative damage of sciatic nerves and developed symptoms of Diabetic Neuropathy. Wheatgrass treatment in diabetic rats prevented the development of neuropathic pain, hot allodynia, cold allodynia and motor deficits, the important signs of Diabetic Neuropathy. Wheatgrass treatment ameliorated the oxidative damage of sciatic nerves by increasing the antioxidant enzymes SOD, Catalase, GSH levels and by decreasing the formation of TBARS (Thio Barbituric Acid Reactive Substances) in diabetic rat sciatic nerves. The neuroprotective role of Wheatgrass was also evident from electron microscopic studies.
Conclusion: The present study revealed the neuroprotective role of Wheatgrass in Diabetic Neuropathy through modulating oxidative stress markers in Diabetic rat sciatic nerves and its beneficial role as a supplement in Diabetic Neuropathy.

Author(s): Archana Jorige and Annapurna Akula

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