Neuroprotective effects of kudzu root extract alone and in combination with maqui berry extract in streptozotocin-induced neuropathic pain

Diabetic neuropathy (DN) is a common complication of diabetes mellitus (DM) characterized by neuropathic pain due to persistent hyperglycemia. Recent studies have shown that phytochemicals’ antioxidant capabilities can reduce oxidative stress associated with diabetic neuropathy. Although phytochemicals with high antioxidant capacity have been discovered, this study aimed to investigate the neuroprotective effect of a combination of kudzu root extract (KRE) and maqui berry extract (MBE). We evaluated the neuroprotective effects of kudzu root extract and maqui berry extract on streptozotocin (STZ)-induced DN in rats. Male Wistar rats (180–250 g) were divided into eight groups (n = 6), with DN induced via a single intraperitoneal injection of STZ (55 mg/kg). Behavioral parameters (mechanical allodynia, cold allodynia, thermal hyperalgesia, and mechanical hyperalgesia) and biochemical parameters (blood glucose, serum markers, antioxidant levels, and ATPase activity) were assessed. Rats were treated with KRE (50 and 100 mg/kg) and MBE (50 and 100 mg/kg) alone and in combination for two weeks. The results showed that treatment with KRE and MBE significantly reduced blood glucose levels and increased body weight compared to diabetic controls. Paw withdrawal latency improved in treated groups, indicating reduced neuropathic pain. Biochemical analysis revealed increased levels of antioxidants (GSH, CAT, and SOD) and ATPase activity, with decreased levels of nitric oxide (NO) and lipid peroxidation (LPO) in the treatment groups. These findings suggest that KRE and MBE exhibit significant neuroprotective effects in STZ-induced DN due to their strong antioxidant properties. Further molecular studies are warranted to elucidate the precise mechanisms underlying their neuroprotective effects.