Antidiabetic Activity of Aegle marmelos Fruit Pulp Extract in Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Wistar Rats

Aims: The present study aimed to evaluate the antidiabetic potential of Aegle marmelos fruit pulp extract in alloxan-induced diabetic Wistar rats, focusing on its antihyperglycemic activity, effects on biochemical parameters, and preservation of pancreatic β-cell morphology. Place of Work: The experimental work was carried out in the Department of Zoology, Kakatiya University, in a controlled laboratory animal facility, adhering to institutional animal ethics committee guidelines. Study Design: An in vivo experimental study was conducted using alloxan-induced diabetic Wistar rats over a 28-day period. The animals were divided into five groups: normal control, diabetic control, diabetic + A. marmelos extract (100 mg/kg), diabetic + A. marmelos extract (200 mg/kg), and diabetic + glibenclamide (standard drug). Methodology: Fruit pulp was extracted using aqueous methods, and acute toxicity testing confirmed safety up to 2000 mg/kg body weight. Diabetes was induced by alloxan monohydrate in overnight-fasted rats. Treatments were given orally for 28 consecutive days. Parameters measured included fasting blood glucose (FBG), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), urea, creatinine, plasma insulin, liver glycogen, total protein, and body weight. Histopathological examination of pancreatic tissue assessed β-cell integrity. Results: The diabetic control group exhibited a progressive rise in FBG from 284.8 ± 6.1 mg/dL (day 1) to 293.2 ± 6.5 mg/dL (day 28), indicating worsening hyperglycemia. Both doses of A. marmelos extract significantly reduced FBG, HbA1c, urea, and creatinine while increasing plasma insulin, liver glycogen, total protein, and body weight. Histopathology revealed marked preservation and regeneration of pancreatic β-cells. The antidiabetic effects of the extract were comparable to those of glibenclamide. Conclusion: Aegle marmelos fruit pulp extract demonstrates potent antidiabetic activity, with biochemical and histological evidence supporting its potential as a natural therapeutic agent for managing diabetes mellitus.