Cupuaçu extract protects the kidneys of diabetic rats by modulating Nrf2/NF-κB p65 and iNOS.

Diabetes is characterized by increased levels of oxidative stress. Its suggested that extract of cupuaçu could improve the antioxidant system in diabetes. The aim was to evaluate the effect of EC on Nrf2/NF-κB p65 in normal and diabetic rats.

Cupuaçu extract reduces nitrosative stress and modulates inflammatory mediators in the kidneys of experimental diabetes.

Background & Aims: We have previously reported an increased nitrosative stress in the kidneys of diabetic animals, which was reduced by an antioxidant probiotic. The present study evaluated whether the extract of cupuaçu (EC), an antioxidant compound rich in polyphenols and theograndins, when administered at a dose that can be reasonably obtained through daily consumption, could delay the onset of diabetic complications in the kidney.

Methods: Mouse immortalized mesangial cells (MiMC) were placed in medium normal glucose (NG) or high glucose (HG), with or without EC (500, 100, 50 or 10 μg/mL) during 24, 48 or 72 h for analysis of viability, proliferation, nitric oxide (NO) levels and reactive oxygen species or nitrogen (ROS/RNS).