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Journal of Physiology and Biochemistry
Springer Nature
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| Abstract: |
Diabetic nephropathy is recognized as the predominant cause of end-stage renal disease worldwide. In reaction to metabolic
stress, the peptide hormone spexin-14, is synthesized in both central and peripheral tissues. Its level is reduced in
type II diabetes mellites and may play a role in glucose metabolism. However, in the context of DN, the mechanisms
through which spexin exerts its effects remain largely unknown. This research employed a rat model of DN to explore
the therapeutic potential and the underlying mechanisms associated with spexin treatment. For the development of this
experimental model, rats were subjected to an eight-week regimen of a high-fat, high-fructose diet prior to receiving a
single dose of streptozotocin (35 mg/kg body weight). Subsequently, spexin was administered subcutaneously on a daily
basis for a duration of eight weeks at a dosage of 50 μg/kg body weight. The evaluation methods employed encompassed
renal function assessments, macromorphological examinations, histopathological evaluations, and analyses of inflammatory
and oxidative stress mediators. Additionally, immunohistochemical staining for NF-kB and E-cadherin, along with
PCR analysis of mTOR, Bcl2, and Bax gene expressions in renal tissues, were conducted. Following the administration
of spexin to the diabetic rats, there was a significant reduction in serum levels of glucose, urea, creatinine, and inflammatory
cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α), alongside a marked restoration of antioxidant enzyme activities. Furthermore, a significant
decline in the levels of NF-κB, mTOR, and Bax was noted and accompanied with increased expressions of Bcl-2 and
E-cadherin proteins. The observed improvements in histopathological changes significantly corroborated the biochemical
results. In summary, spexin has proven to be effective in alleviating DN by its capacity to mitigate metabolic disturbances,
oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis.
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