Ameliorative effect of beetroot aqueous extract on the liver of diabetic Wistar rats

This study investigated the effects of beetroot extract on the liver of diabetic Wistar rats. Thirty male Wistar rats (8-10 weeks old, weighing 160-200 g) were randomly assigned to five groups: A) normal control, B) diabetic only, C) diabetic + beetroot, D) diabetic + Metformin, and E) beetroot extract only. Diabetes was induced via a single intraperitoneal dose of streptozotocin (70 mg/kg body weight). After 72 hours of sustained diabetes (blood glucose ≥ 7 mmol), the rats received oral administrations of beetroot extract and Metformin (500 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg body weight daily respectively) for four weeks, while being fed a standard diet with water access. Blood glucose levels and body weight were measured weekly. At the experiment's conclusion, the rats were euthanised, and relative liver weights were recorded. Data analysis included one-way ANOVA and graphical representation using Excel. Results indicated significant differences in blood glucose levels and average body weight in the diabetic rats (p<0.05) compared to other groups. The relative liver weight in the diabetic group was notably lower (p<0.05). Histological examination revealed normal liver architecture in the control and beetroot groups, whereas the diabetic group exhibited disrupted histoarchitecture with necrotic hepatocytes. The diabetic + beetroot group showed normalised histoarchitecture similar to the control group, while the diabetic + Metformin group displayed minor disruptions. All groups except the diabetic group displayed normal reactions to PAS staining. In conclusion, beetroot extract demonstrated hepatoprotective effects, mitigating diabetes-related liver damage and weight loss in male Wistar rats.