Urtica dioica Effect on Malonyl-CoA Decarboxylase

Background: The malonyl-CoA decarboxylase (MCD, EC.4.1.1.9) enzyme regulates malonyl-CoA levels. The effect of aerial parts extracts of Urtica dioica (UD) on MCD is poorly understood. Urtica dioica (UD) on MCD is poorly understood. Objectives: The present experiment was undertaken to evaluate the effect of UD aerial parts extracts on MCD level. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, two groups of rats were used: normal and hyperglycemic group. Then UD aerial parts extracts (5 mg /500 μL) administrated to the hyperglycemic group of rats and finally, the MCD and insulin levels were measured in both groups. Results: Interestingly, we observed that the UD aerial parts extracts powder caused a significant (P < 0.05) increase in insulin level during the experiment, from the base level of 0.36 ± 0.07 μg/L to the peak value of 0.52 ± 0.15 μg/L. Also, it caused a significant (P < 0.05) decrease in MCD level, from the base level of 29.68 ± 1.29 pg/mL to the bottom value of 22.12 ± 2.41 pg/mL. Conclusions: The results of the present study indicate that UD aerial part extracts would decrease MCD level in hyperglycemic rats.