EVALUATING THE ANTIDIABETIC POTENTIAL OF BETA-GLUCAN EXTRACTED FROM IRAQI BARLEY: A HISTOPATHOLOGICAL STUDY IN RAT MODELS.

Abstract

Beta-glucan extracted from Iraqi barley was tested in rats to investigate its anti-diabetic effects in the liver over different time periods. We selected 30 male rats weighing 250-300 g & aged 11-12 weeks to achieve the objectives of the study. Streptozotocin (STZ) 40 mg/kg intraperitoneally induced diabetes in three groups of rats. Three groups were studied: negative control, positive control, and treatment with β-glucan extract. Blood glucose levels were measured before (0 day) & after STZ injection (7, 14, & 21 days). Serum analysis showed an increase in blood glucose levels in diabetic groups, especially after 21 days of injection (598.2 ± 32.67 mg/dL) compared to other groups. The β-glucan extract group showed a significant decrease in blood glucose levels, especially in the last 21 days (249.75 ± 25.30 mg/dL). The diabetic group also showed necrotic liver cells, inflammation & hemorrhagic hepatitis. We found larger Kupffer cells & dilated sinusoids in the β-glucan extract group, which also showed mild sinusoidal congestion and few necrotic liver cells. Beta-glucan extract induced liver cell regeneration and reduced liver lesions. In conclusion, barley β-glucan extract showed significant tissue remodeling & regeneration after diabetes induction, implying potential antidiabetic activity.