Nigella sativa L. seed regulated eNOS, VCAM-1 and LOX-1 genes expression and improved vasoreactivity in aorta of diabetic rat.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Nigella sativa L. seed has been widely used in traditional medicine for the treatment of diabetes. The major reason for vascular complications in diabetic patients is endothelial dysfunction. However, the impact of N. sativa seed on endothelial dysfunction in diabetes remains unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY: This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of the hydroalcoholic extract of N. sativa seed on eNOS, VCAM-1, and LOX-1 genes expression and the vasoreactivity of aortic rings to acetylcholine (Ach) in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rat.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Treated rats received N. sativa seed extract (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg) daily by gavage for 6 weeks. The fasting blood glucose and lipids were measured and atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) was calculated. The endothelium-dependent vasoreactivity responses of isolated aortic rings were evaluated in the presence of cumulative concentrations of Ach (10-8 -10-5 M). eNOS, VCAM-1, and LOX-1 genes expression in aortic tissue was assessed by using real time polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

RESULTS: Male diabetic Wistar rats treated with N. sativa seed extract for six weeks reduced serum glucose and lipids and improved AIP. The vasorelaxant responses of aortic rings to Ach were markedly improved. N. sativa seed significantly increased eNOS in mRNA expression level and function, while it decreased VCAM-1 and LOX-1 expressions in vascular cells of aortic tissue which assessed only in mRNA level.

CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study showed that N. sativa seed more likely, has antidiabetic and antihyperlipidemic properties and improved vasoreactivity, endothelial dysfunction, and vascular inflammation in diabetic rats' aorta.