Histological Evaluation of Anti-diabetic Potentials of Methanol Leaf Extract of Carica Papaya on Alloxan-Induced Diabetes in Wistar Rats

Abstract

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus is a chronic condition where the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar levels. It occurs due to either insufficient insulin production (Type 1) or insulin resistance (Type 2).

Aim: This study aimed to assess the histological evaluation of anti-diabetic potential of methanol leaf extract of Carica papaya on beta cells in Alloxan-induced diabetic Wistar rats.

Methods: Twenty four Wistar rats were used for the experiment. Diabetes was induced using alloxan at a dose of 150mg/kg body weight intraperitoneally. After 72 hours of induction, the blood glucose levels were measured using a fine test glucometer. Wistar rats with glucose levels ≥ 11 mmol/L were selected for further study. The Wistar rats were divided into six groups, with four rats in each group. Group A was non-diabetic and received no treatment. Group B was diabetic but received no treatment. Group C, D, E and F were diabetic and received 250mg/kg of metformin, 1000mg/kg bw, 2000mg/kg bw and 3000mg/kg bw of methanol leaf extract of Carica papaya respectively. The pancreas was harvested and processed for histological analysis. Blood glucose data were analyzed using repeated text measures, and the histological findings were presented as photomicrographs.

Results: Methanol leaf extract of Carica papaya significantly lowered blood glucose levels (30.80 ± 13.16 to 15.93 ± 12.02) mmol/L, (35.00 ± 7.10 to 21.57 ± 6.98) mmol/L and (31.77 ± 5.60 to 14.20 ± 7.07) mmol/L in group D, E and F respectively. There was improved pancreatic islet architecture in alloxan-induced diabetic Wistar rats with the greatest effect at 3000mg/kg body weight.

Conclusion: Methanol leaf extract of Carica papaya significantly lowered blood glucose levels and improved pancreas Langerhans’ islet in alloxan-induced diabetic Wistar rats. This may suggest its potential as a natural therapeutic agent for diabetes management.