Abstract

Diabetes-induced endothelial dysfunction has been well recognized for its underlining causes of oxidative stress. Therefore, several studies have worked on testing active antioxidant agents such as vitamin C and E against diabetes induced oxidative stress to preserve endothelial cells. In the present study, we assessed the effects of plant-derived antioxidant, curcumin and its analog, tetrahydrocurcumin (THC) and also its preventive qualities. Using an animal model, assessment for endothelial-dependent vasodilatation and the behavior of leukocytes were accomplished by using streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats and its mesenteric microcirculation parameters. The results indicated that both antioxidants, curcumin and THC, could significantly inhibit those abnormalities typically seen in endothelial dysfunctions (P < 0.05) in relation to their hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic properties. Unfortunately, curcumin has a poor absorption quality and as a result of this, a higher dose is needed to prevent abnormal endothelial functions. On the other hand, THC was found to be a more potent antioxidant and good therapeutic agent for diabetic patients in preventing diabetes vascular abnormalities.

Key words: Curcumin, tetrahydrocurcumin, endothelial dysfunction, diabetes.