Naringin protects against diabetic cataracts in rats by modulating oxidative stress and inflammation

This study investigated the efficacy of naringin, a bioflavonoid recognized for its antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties, in preventing the development of diabetic cataracts. Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats and age-matched controls were treated either with naringin or a vehicle...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Meng Gaoqiang, Meng Li, Xu Yalong
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: University of Belgrade, University of Novi Sad 2025-01-01
Series:Archives of Biological Sciences
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Online Access:https://doiserbia.nb.rs/img/doi/0354-4664/2025/0354-46642400039M.pdf
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Summary:This study investigated the efficacy of naringin, a bioflavonoid recognized for its antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties, in preventing the development of diabetic cataracts. Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats and age-matched controls were treated either with naringin or a vehicle for 12 weeks. Cataract formation scores, oxidative stress markers, proinflammatory cytokines, and the transcription factor Nrf2 and NF-κB activities in the lens were assessed. Diabetic rats treated with naringin had a significantly reduced incidence and severity of cataracts compared to vehicle-treated counterparts. Vehicle-treated diabetic rats had elevated oxidative stress and inflammation in the lens, characterized by decreased Nrf2 activity and increased NF-κB activity. Naringin treatment effectively mitigated these detrimental effects by enhancing Nrf2-mediated antioxidant defenses and suppressing NF-κB-driven inflammatory responses. Importantly, naringin did not significantly alter blood glucose levels in diabetic rats, indicating its cataract-preventive effects were independent of glycemic control. Naringin has a protective role against the onset and progression of diabetic cataracts by modulating key oxidative and inflammatory pathways in the lens. These findings suggest it is a promising therapeutic agent for preventing diabetic cataracts.
ISSN:0354-4664
1821-4339