Protective Effect of Sodium-Glucose Co-Transporter 2 Inhibitor (Dapagliflozin) on Diabetic Retinopathy in Streptozotocin Induced Diabetes in Rats

Abstract

Background: Diabetic retinopathy is a serious diabetic complication as it is considered the most common cause of blindness in diabetes. There is a link between chronic hyperglycemia and the occurrence and progression of diabetic retinopathy. Aim of Study: To investigate for the effect dapagliflozin, Sodium-Glucoseco-Transporter2 (SGLT2) inhibitor in reduction of diabetic retinopathy. Material and Methods: Thirty (30) male albino rats (120-150) were randomly divided into control (n=6); DM (diabetic non treated group, n=10), DM + DAPA (diabetic treated with dapagliflozin for 8 weeks, n=10). Blood samples and retinal tissues were collected to assess glycated hemoglobin (HbA 1 c), serum Interleukin 6 (IL-6), lipid profile and retinal expression levels of hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2) and Brain Derived Nerve Growth (BDNG) moreover histological assessment was performed. Results: Diabetes increased all measured parameters while decreased the expression of BDNG. Supplementation of dapagliflozin improved all measured parameters. Conclusion: This study showed the harmful effect of diabetes on retina which could be mediated by oxidative stress and inflammation. On the other hand, dapagliflozin improved diabetic retinopathy via antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions also it improved retinal regeneration via increasing the expression of brain derived nerve growth factor.