Evaluation of the pharmacological efficacy of black crowberry (Empetrum nigrum L.) extract in a rat model of alloxan-induced diabetes

The spectrum of bioactive metabolites identified in the fruits of Empetrum nigrum L. collected in the Kamchatka Territory is of particular interest for the prevention and correction of disorders associated with age-related diseases.

Purpose of the study. To investigate the effects of a liquid extract of black crowberry (Empetrum nigrum) fruits on metabolic and oxidative disturbances in rats with alloxan-induced diabetes.

Materials and methods. Following the identification of phenolic compounds and saponins in Empetrum nigrum fruits, the biological activities of these compounds were screened using the online Prediction of Activity Spectra for Substances (PASS) software. Experimental studies were conducted to evaluate the hypoglycemic, hepatoprotective, and antioxidant effects of the liquid extract of black crowberry fruits in rats with alloxan-induced diabetes. Assessments were performed using standard biochemical assays and conventional analytical methods on a Mindray BC-480 analyzer. The effects of the Empetrum nigrum liquid extract on antioxidant defense parameters following alloxan administration were evaluated spectrophotometrically by measuring malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and the total antiradical activity index. The comet assay was used to assess the genotoxic effects of alloxan and of the investigated extract.

Results. In the rat model of diabetes mellitus, administration of the liquid extract of Empetrum nigrum fruits resulted in a 23.9 % reduction in hyperglycemia (blood glucose level), a 38.7 % decrease in malondialdehyde concentration, and a 38.3 % increase in total antiradical activity compared with the control group (p < 0.05). The comet assay demonstrated the damaging effect of alloxan on liver cells: the number of necrotic and apoptotic cells in the control group was 1.6-fold higher than in the group receiving the black crowberry fruit extract (p < 0.05). Changes in absolute and relative liver weight, as well as biochemical parameters, further confirmed the beneficial effects of Empetrum nigrum L. fruit extract administration. The observed effects were compared with those of the reference compound rutin (a quercetin diglycoside).

Conclusion. The present study expands current knowledge regarding the hypoglycemic, hepatoprotective, and antioxidant properties of Empetrum nigrum, highlighting its potential relevance for pharmaceutical development and clinical applications.

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