Objective: To observe the effects of Radix Puerariae on protein glycation in model rats induced by D-galactose.
Methods: The model rats of protein glycatin were induced by intraperitoneal administration of D-galactose (150 mg/kg) for 8 weeks, and all rats were treated by Radix Puerariae (High dose 300 mg/kg, Middle dose 150 mg/kg, Low dose 75 mg/kg) for 6 weeks. The activity of aldose reductase in red blood cells, the content of fructosamine in serum, the amount of glycohaemoglobin and advanced glycation end-products, the level of insulin in serum, the activity of superoxide dismutase and the amount of maleic dialdehyde were measured.
Results: High dose and middle dose of Radix Puerariae could decrease the level of blood glucose and the activity of aldose reductase in red blood cells, inhibit the formation of glycation products significantly in model rats induced by D-galactose (P < 0.01), increase insulin sensitivity and activity of superoxide dismutase (P < 0.01) and decrease the amount of maleic dialdehyde (P < 0.01).
Conclusion: Puerariae can significantly inhibit glycation reaction in rats induced by D-galactose.