Abstract
ABSTRACT
Abstract
Introduction
Diabetes mellitus is a prevalent endocrine disorder affecting millions worldwide, characterized by chronic hyperglycemia and associated with serious complications.
Aim
This study aimed to evaluate the anti-diabetic properties of Ogiri Protein Isolate (OPI) derived from fermented melon seeds (Citrullus vulgaris) and its effects on blood glucose levels, lipid profiles, and key organs in alloxan-induced diabetic rats.
Methods
Forty-two rats were divided into seven groups: positive control, negative control, diabetic group treated with 20% OPI, non-diabetic group treated with 20% OPI, diabetic group treated with 10% OPI, non-diabetic group treated with 10% OPI, and diabetic group treated with 80mg/kg Glibenclamide for 14 days. Fasting serum glucose levels, feed and water intake, weight gain, and plasma HDL-cholesterol and triglyceride levels were measured.
Results
OPI treatment significantly reduced fasting serum glucose levels in diabetic rats. There was a significant (p<0.05) decrease in feed and water intake in treated groups. Weight gain improved in OPI-treated diabetic rats compared to untreated diabetic rats. Plasma HDL-cholesterol levels increased significantly in all treated groups compared to the control, with the highest levels in non-diabetic and untreated groups. Similar trends were observed in plasma and liver triglycerides.
Conclusion
The findings suggest that OPI possesses anti-diabetic properties, significantly lowering blood glucose levels and improving lipid profiles in diabetic rats. OPI holds promise as a potential therapeutic agent for diabetes management. Further research is needed to validate these results in human studies.

Keywords: Ogiri Protein Isolate (OPI), anti-diabetic, Diabetes mellitus, Postprandial blood glucose and Alloxan.