Exploring Antidiabetic Effects of Enriched Mocaf Noodles: A Combined Computational and in Vivo Study

Diabetes is a critical global health issue, necessitating sustainable dietary interventions with minimal side effects. This study explores the antidiabetic potential of modified cassava flour (mocaf) noodles enriched with Latoh (Caulerpa lentillifera) using both computational and in vivo methods. Bioactive compounds in Latoh were identified through SwissTargetPrediction and PASSOnline, predicting activities such as oxidative stress reduction, glucose modulation, and Dipeptidyl Peptidase IV (DPP-IV) inhibition. Male Wistar rats (n=24) aged 2-3 months were divided into four groups: healthy control (AIN-96M diet), diabetic control, and two diabetic groups supplemented with mocaf noodles containing Latoh or carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) as binders. Diabetes was induced using nicotinamide and streptozotocin, with blood samples collected weekly for fasting glucose, insulin, and malondialdehyde (MDA) analysis. Results demonstrated that mocaf-Latoh noodles significantly reduced fasting blood glucose levels from >250 mg/dL to 105 mg/dL, lowered MDA levels by 45%, and increased serum insulin levels by 30%, indicating enhanced beta-cell function and reduced oxidative stress. These results indicate decreased oxidative stress and enhanced beta-cell activity in the pancreas. According to the findings, mocaf-Latoh noodles have the potential as a functional food for managing diabetes and should be investigated further in human trials.