Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR-4) plays important roles in innate immunity. Changes in the reduction-oxidation balance of tissues can lead to a pro-inflammatory state and insulin resistance. An action thought to be mediated by TLRs. Omega-3 fatty acids and Peroxisome Proliferator Activated Receptor gamma (PPAR-γ) agonists as pioglitazone are used for decreasing inflammation. The aim of this study is to investigate the anti-diabetic effects of combining omega -3 fatty acid with pioglitazone on type 2 diabetes, and the modifying effects on TLR-4. Type 2 diabetes was induced in male Sprague-Dawley rats by combination of high fat diet and low dose streptozotocin (35mg/kg). Diabetic rats were treated with omega-3 fatty acids (10% W/W diet), pioglitazone (20mg/kg), and their combination for 4 weeks. Omega-3 fatty acids and the combination treatment significantly decreased TLR-4 activation. Omega-3 fatty acids, pioglitazone, and their combination significantly decreased TLR-4 mRNA expression, hepatic malondialdehyde, total cholesterol and triglycerides levels, compared to diabetic group. Pioglitazone and the combination significantly decreased blood glucose levels and improved insulin resistance. In conclusion, combining omega-3 fatty acids with pioglitazone showed potential effects in lowering blood glucose levels and improving lipid profile and insulin resistance. Such effects are mediated through modulation of TLR-4.
Keywords: Blood glucose; Insulin resistance; Omega-3 fatty acids; Oxidative stress; Pioglitazone; Toll-like receptor 4.
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