THE EFFECT OF MUCUNA PRURIENS SEED EXTRACT ON PANCREAS AND LIVER OF DIABETIC WISTAR RATS

Aims and Objectives: The study was to evaluate the remedial effect of alcohol extract of Mucuna pruriens seeds on pancreas and liver of Streptozotocin induced diabetic rats. Materials and Method: Five day old neonate wistar rats (n - 24) were used for the study. Out of this, 6 rats were kept as Normal control i.e. Group A. Remaining 18 rats were made diabetic by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (65mg/kg body weight). After 12 weeks, they were divided equally into 3 groups i.e. Group B - Diabetic control, Group C - Mucuna Pruriens group (200mg/kg), Group D - Glibenclamide group (1 mg/kg body weight). Drugs were administered orally for 28 days in group C & D. Blood Glucose Level was monitored once in a week during this period. On completion of drug treatment period, animals were sacrificed for the collection of blood and visceral organs to carry out histological and biochemical investigations. Results: The Mucuna Pruriens seed extract (200mg/kg) were effectively controlled blood glucose levels in diabetic rats. Serum insulin and cholesterol levels were significantly improved when compared to diabetic group (p >0.05). In pancreas, the islets showed increase in beta cell mass and reduced necrotic changes. Liver functions were partially restored and hepatocytes showed minimal necrotic changes. Conclusion: Mucuna pruriens seeds are capable of exerting positive structural changes in pancreas & liver through its antioxidant and antidiabetic properties.