GABA and Astaxanthin Improve Markers of Streptozotocin-Induced Type 1 Diabetes in Rats: Additive Effects of Combination Therapy

Abstract

Background: Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease primarily caused by inflammation and oxidative stress. The treatment of this condition has encountered numerous challenges and limitations to date. Astaxanthin (AST) is a carotenoid known for its antioxidant properties. Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a vital neurotransmitter that regulates the activity of beta cells in pancreatic islets. Objectives: The present study aimed to investigate the effects of AST and GABA alone and in combination on beta cell regeneration, fasting blood sugar (FBS), and oxidative stress in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced T1D in rats. Methods: In this experimental in vivo study, 30 male Wistar rats were used. Diabetes was induced with intraperitoneal injection of STZ (55 mg/kg). We randomly divided the rats into five groups (n = 6): control, diabetic, AST (20 mg/kg), GABA (100 mg/kg), and combination therapy (GABA + AST). Following 21 days of treatment, we measured serum FBS, C-peptide, insulin, nitric oxide (NO), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC). We removed the rats’ pancreases to examine gene expression (PDX1, NEUROG3) and histological changes. Results: The FBS and NO levels of treated diabetic rats with GABA, AST, and their combination decreased significantly (P < 0.05). The amount of C-peptide, insulin, TAC, and expression of PDX1 and NEUROG3 genes increased significantly. Conclusions: AST and GABA reduce FBS and improve serum and histology factors of the pancreas in diabetic rats.