Naringin protects against diabetic cataracts in rats by modulating oxidative stress and inflammation

This study investigated the efficacy of naringin, a bioflavonoid recognized for its antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties, in preventing the development of diabetic cataracts. Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats and age-matched controls were treated either with naringin or a vehicle for 12 weeks. Cataract formation scores, oxidative stress markers, proinflammatory cytokines, and the transcription factor Nrf2 and NF-?B activities in the lens were assessed. Diabetic rats treated with naringin had a significantly reduced incidence and severity of cataracts compared to vehicle-treated counterparts. Vehicle-treated diabetic rats had elevated oxidative stress and inflammation in the lens, characterized by decreased Nrf2 activity and increased NF-?B activity. Naringin treatment effectively mitigated these detrimental effects by enhancing Nrf2-mediated antioxidant defenses and suppressing NF-?B-driven inflammatory responses. Importantly, naringin did not significantly alter blood glucose levels in diabetic rats, indicating its cataract-preventive effects were independent of glycemic control. Naringin has a protective role against the onset and progression of diabetic cataracts by modulating key oxidative and inflammatory pathways in the lens. These findings suggest it is a promising therapeutic agent for preventing diabetic cataracts.