bhatnagar.archana@gmail.com, vanditatiwari2017@gmail.com, mkajgarg@gmail.com

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is characterized by β-cell dysfunction, insulin resistance, and chronic inflammation leading to hyperglycemia. Anthocyanins, known for their potent antioxidant properties, show promising role in alleviating T2DM-related complications. This study aims to explore the impact of anthocyanin-rich black wheat on glucose metabolism, insulin sensitivity, lipid profile, oxidative stress, inflammation, and organ protection in HFD-STZ induced T2DM rats.

Rats were subjected to a high-fat diet (HFD) for 8 weeks to induce a Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) model, followed by a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ). Subsequently, throughout the 12-week study duration, the rats were provided with a HFD supplemented with isoenergetic diet of both black and white wheat. Compared to white wheat, black wheat demonstrates a lower glycemic index and stronger inhibitory activities against α-amylase and α-glucosidase.

Consumption of black wheat leads to significant reductions in blood glucose and HbA1c levels, improved insulin sensitivity, oral glucose tolerance, and insulin tolerance. Additionally, it enhances antioxidant enzyme activities, ameliorates atherogenic dyslipidemia, and reduces inflammatory markers, while increasing adiponectin levels. Black wheat activates adiponectin-AMPK and PI3-AKT pathways, resulting in increased expression of glucose transporters (GLUT-2, GLUT-4). H

Histopathological examinations reveal protective effects on the liver, kidney, and spleen. Anthocyanin-rich black wheat emerges as a promising functional food for managing T2DM and its associated complications exerting its effects through the modulation of essential pathways and glucose transporters.Top of Form