The Effects of Saffron (Crocus sativus) Aqueous Extract on TNF-alpha Levels in Liver, Kidney, and Lens Tissues of Diabetic Rats

Objective: Diabetes mellitus is a serious health problem that can result in several complications like nephropathy, retinopathy, cataract, and liver injury. Recently, it has been demonstrated that the pro-inflammatory cytokines, especially TNF-alpha, play a determinant part in the progression of microvascular diabetic complications. On the other hand, medicinal plants such as saffron reportedly possess anti-inflammatory activity, which may reduce inflammation and improve the functioning of various organs affected by hyperglycemic conditions. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of saffron aqueous extract in diabetic rats by measurement of TNF-alpha levels in liver, kidney, and lens tissues. Material and Methods: Thirty-four healthy albino Wistar adult rats were randomly divided into four groups namely, normal control (I), saffron control (II), diabetic control (III, and saffron treated (IV). Diabetes was induced in diabetic control (III) and saffron treated (IV) group with the help of a single i.p. injection of streptozotocin (60 mg/kg body weight). Whereas, equal volumes of citrate buffer by an i.p. injection were administered to rats in normal (Group I) and saffron control (Group II) groups. The treatment of the groups (II and IV) with saffron aqueous extract was commenced, seven days after injections, by administration of the extract (200 mg/kg body weight), in five doses per week. At the end of the experimental period, fasting blood glucose levels and TNF-alpha levels, from the indicated tissues, were determined and compared. Results: Administration of saffron aqueous extract to diabetic rats lowered fasting blood glucose level significantly and prevented weight loss in treated diabetic rats (IV group). The results indicated that there was an elevation in levels of TNF-alpha in kidney, liver, and lens tissues of the diabetic group (III) compared to control groups (I and II) and saffron aqueous extract adjusted and normalized their levels in liver and kidney tissues. Conclusion: The study demonstrates that saffron aqueous ex- tract can protect the kidney and liver of diabetic rats against damage caused by hyperglycemia-induced inflammation, due to its anti-inflammatory potential.