Evaluating the cardio-protective effects of Momordica balsamina in a diet-induced prediabetic rats

Background Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the predominant cause of morbidity and mortality among patients with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. The association between hyperglycemia and intracellular metabolic changes can result in oxidative stress, low-grade inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction. The management of hyperglycemia and prediabetes-associated vascular complications rely on pharmacotherapy and lifestyle intervention strategies. Research investigated the cardio-protective effects of Momordica balsamina in a diet-induced prediabetic rats. Materials and methods Prediabetes was induced using a laboratory established protocol in male Sprague Dawley rats. Thereafter, M. balsamina (250 mg/kg) was administered to prediabetic rats once a day every third day in the presence or absence of dietary intervention. Blood pressure and plasma glucose concentration were monitored throughout the study. Blood and tissue were collected for biochemical analysis. Results M. balsamina with or without dietary intervention resulted into a reduction in mean arterial blood pressure. In addition, there was a significant decrease in the heart tissue malondialdehyde and increased plasma superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase concentration. Furthermore, there was a decrease in plasma triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein with an increased high-density lipoprotein concentration Lastly, M. balsamina with or without dietary intervention demonstrated a reduced plasma tumor necrosis factor alpha and reduced interleukin-6 concentrations in the absence of dietary intervention. Conclusion M. balsamina coupled with or without dietary intervention decreased the risk of developing cardiac injury, thus preventing cardiovascular disease in prediabetes. Therefore, this medicinal plant may be a beneficial therapeutic agent in the prevention of prediabetic cardiovascular complications.