Effect of Moringa oleiferaLeaf Extract on TGF-β1 and Galectin-3 Levels and Cardiac Fibrosis in Diabetic Rat

Abstract

Cardiac fibrosis is the most prevalent form of diabetic cardiomyopathy. Increased levels of transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1) and galectin-3 are present in cardiac fibrosis, and these proteins might be potential therapeutic targets. Researches have shown that Moringa oleifera(MO) display numerous biological activities which could be harnessed for the treatment of a variety of ailments, including cardiovascular diseases. This study is aimed at evaluating the effect of MO on TGF-β1 and galectin-3 levels in diabetic rat model of cardiac fibrosis. Fifteen (15) Wistar rats were randomly divided into three groups: normal control group, administered normal saline; case group, administered normal saline and streptozotocin; and MOtreatment group, administered streptozotocin and MOextract (1000 mg/kg) once daily for 28 days. Cardiac fibrosis was evaluated by histopathological analysis of the rats’ myocardium. The levels of TGF-β1 and galectin-3 were investigated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Histopathological examination revealed fewer cardiac fibrosis features in the myocardium of MO treatedgroup compared to the case group. In addition, MO treatment resulted in a significant reduction in collagen decomposition in the left ventricle myocardium. ELISA revealed a significant decrease in the TGF-β1 and galectin-3 levels in the MOtreated group compared to the case group (641.4±94.0 ng/L vs. 852.3±56.2 ng/L,and 1.53±0.07 ng/Lvs. 1.79±0.166 ng/L, respectively).In conclusion,the beneficial effects of MOare likely related to its ability todecrease oxidative stress in the heart tissue and reduce the formation of fibrosis by suppressing the expression of TGF-β1 and galectin-3