The effect of chard (Beta vulgaris L. var. cicla) on the protein and antioxidant systems in lenses of streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

Abstract

The effect of chard (Beta vulgaris L. var. cicla) on diabetes-induced impairments in rat lenses was investigated. Although macroscopic examination revealed no opacification of rat lenses in any group, uncontrolled induced diabetes caused significant decreases in lens glutathione and increases in lens protein non-enzymatic glycosylation and blood glucose. Administration of chard extract inhibited these effects. SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis revealed no significant differences in any protein bands between any of the groups. The results indicate the use of chard may be effective in preventing, or at least retarding, the development of some diabetic ocular complications.