Evaluation of the Anti-Diabetic and Renoprotective Effects of Enicostemma Littorale Whole Plant Extract in Fructose-Induced Insulin Resistance Model in Rats

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by persistent hyperglycemia resulting from impaired insulin secretion, action, or both, leading to severe complications such as diabetic nephropathy. Despite the availability of synthetic antidiabetic drugs, their limitations, including adverse effects and incomplete control of complications, necessitate the exploration of safer and more effective alternatives. Medicinal plants have emerged as promising therapeutic agents due to their bioactive phytochemicals with multifaceted pharmacological properties. This study focuses on evaluating the efficacy of Enicostemma littorale, a traditionally used medicinal herb, in improving insulin sensitivity and providing renal protection in fructose-induced insulin-resistant rat models. The plant is rich in bioactive constituents such as flavonoids, alkaloids, phenolics, and terpenoids, which contribute to its antidiabetic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities. The proposed work includes extraction, phytochemical screening, in vitro antioxidant assessment, and in vivo evaluation of biochemical parameters such as blood glucose, insulin levels, lipid profile, and histopathological examination of kidney tissues. Evidence from previous studies suggests that Enicostemma littorale enhances insulin secretion, reduces oxidative stress, inhibits inflammatory pathways, and improves renal function markers. Therefore, this study aims to validate the dual therapeutic potential of Enicostemma littorale in managing type 2 diabetes and diabetic nephropathy, providing a scientific basis for its future development as a safe, plant-based therapeutic agent.

Keywords: Diabetes Mellitus, Insulin Resistance, Diabetic Nephropathy, Enicostemma littorale, Phytochemicals, Antidiabetic Activity, Renoprotection, Oxidative Stress, Herbal Medicine, Antioxidant Activity.