Evaluating the toxicity and efficacy of the endophytic bacterium Kosakonia sp. ZO-Rh4 on antidiabetes and associated complications in a mouse model

The endophytic bacterium <i>Kosakonia</i> sp. ZO-Rh4, isolated from ginger, exhibited antioxidant properties <i>in vitro</i>. However, its safety and efficacy have never been assessed <i>in vivo</i>. This study examined the toxicity of the ethyl acetate extract from <i>Kosakonia</i> sp. ZO-Rh4 (KE) in mice and its potential to treat diabetes and its complications. Acute toxicity was investigated with a single KE dosage of 5000 mg/kg body weight (b.w.). Sub-chronic toxicity was studied with a daily dosage of 400 mg/kg b.w. for 45 and 90 days. After 14 days of acute toxicity and 45 or 90 days of daily dosing at 400 mg/kg body weight, all parameters were found to be within normal limits. <i>In vitro</i> antidiabetic tests indicated that KE has a strong inhibitory effect on the α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes. An <i>in vivo</i> study was conducted on diabetic mice induced with alloxan monohydrate, measuring the mice's body weight and blood glucose levels weekly. Following the experiment, mouse blood was collected to measure lipid parameters and liver function markers. The liver, kidneys, and pancreatic tissues were evaluated for oxidative stress by measuring malondialdehyde and glutathione levels. KE lowered blood glucose and enhanced body weight depending on the dosage. Furthermore, KE possesses <i>anti</i>-dyslipidemic properties, can restore liver function, and mitigates oxidative stress in all examined organs by decreasing malondialdehyde and increasing glutathione. The study confirmed the relative safety of KE and its effectiveness in treating diabetes and its complications, potentially representing a new option for functional foods and pharmaceuticals.