Effect of taurine on biomarkers of oxidative stress in tissues of fructose-fed insulin-resistant rats

ATA Nandhini, V Thirunavukkarasu, MK Ravichandran, CV Anuradha
Correspondence: Dr Carani Venkatraman Anuradha, cvaradha@hotmail.com

ABSTRACT
Introduction The present study was designed to investigate whether taurine mitigates fructose-induced oxidative stress in rat tissues such as heart and kidney.
Methods Male Wistar rats of body weight 170-190 g were divided into four groups containing six rats each. Control animals received the control diet containing starch while fructose-fed animals received a fructose-enriched diet (greater than 60 percent of total calories). Fructose and taurine rats received the fructose diet and two percent taurine solution to drink. Control and taurine rats received the control diet and two percent taurine solution. After the treatment period of 30 days, insulin resistance index, by homeostasis model assessment (HOMA) was determined. The levels of lipid peroxidation markers, the enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants status in heart and kidney tissues were measured.
Results Fructose rats showed high values of HOMA, increased lipid peroxidation and impaired antioxidant status. Taurine treatment to fructose rats attenuated the increased lipid peroxidation, enhanced the levels of antioxidants and improved insulin sensitivity.
Conclusion Inhibition of peroxidation markers and upregulation of antioxidant activity in rat tissues by taurine signify the potential utility of taurine as an adjunct in treatment of insulin resistance.

Keywords: antioxidants, fructose diet, insulin, lipid peroxidation, taurine
Singapore Med J 2005; 46(2): 82-87