Repositioning of Olmesartan by Exploring Its Protective Potential Against STZ Induced Diabetic Neuropathy in Rodents

Abstract

Olmesartan (OLM), an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) initially recognized for its blood pressure-lowering properties, exhibits significant potential in addressing disorders associated with inflammation. This suggests promising prospects for its use in conditions such as neuropathy, and nephropathy. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of OLM (5 mg/kg/day) on streptozotocin (STZ) induced diabetic neuropathy in Sprague Dawley (SD) rats. The animals were divided into four groups, each consisting of six rats (n = 6). Group I, the nondiabetic/normal control (NCG), received normal saline. Group II served as the diabetic control (DCG). Group III, the treatment group (TG), received OLM at a dosage of 5 mg/kg/day and STZ. Group IV, the perse group (PSG), received OLM at the same dosage. Parameters measured included blood glucose levels, and various behavioural assessments such as motor coordination, thermal hyperalgesia and heat allodynia. Functional biomarkers, including Slow nerve conduction velocity (SNCV), Motor nerve conduction velocity (MNCV) & Na+K+ATPase activity was also assessed. OLM results in neuroprotective efficacy, characterized by enhanced myelination, reduced axonal swelling of nerve fibers, improvements in SNCV and MNCV. This study substantiates the beneficial impact of OLM and underscores its significance in diabetic neuropathy treatment. Further clinical trials hold the potential to unveil innovative pharmacological treatments for diabetes and its associated complications.