Anti-hyperglycemic Effect of Aqueous Extract of Calotropis procera on High Sucrose-Induced Oxidative Stress in Drosophila melanogaster

Oxidative stress is implicated in the pathogenesis of several metabolic disorders, including diabetes – a metabolic disease characterized by persistent hyperglycemia. This study investigated the anti-hyperglycemic effect of aqueous extract of Calotropis procera (AECP) leaf on high sucrose-induced oxidative stress in Drosophila melanogaster. Flies were grouped into six (40 flies/vial, 5 vials/group). Group 1 (control) were fed with basal diet only, groups 2, 3, 4, and 5 were fed daily with 30% sucrose diet for 7 days. Groups 3, 4 and 5 were further fed with diets fortified with metformin (0.8 mg/g), and AECP (0.5 and 1 mg/g), respectively, for 7 days. Group 6 flies were daily exposed to AECP (1 mg/g diet) only for 7 days. Climbing ability test was done, and flies were thereafter homogenized. Parameters, such as glucose, nitrite, and total thiol levels, as well as activities of antioxidant enzymes (catalase and glutathione-s-transferase (GST)) and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) were measured. Results indicated a significant (p< 0.05) increase in glucose and nitrite levels, as well as AChE activity, with a significant (p<0.05) decrease in climbing ability, total thiol level, and antioxidant enzymes’ activities in flies exposed to sucrose only when compared with control. Exposure of sucrose-fed flies to AECP caused significant (p<0.05) reversal in the levels and activities of these parameters. No significant abnormality was noted in these parameters in AECP only when compared to the control. The leaf of AECP possessed antioxidant and anti-hyperglycemic properties, and could serve as an alternative therapy for diabetes and its complications, including neuropathy.