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Beta-sitosterol mitigates type 2 diabetes-induced cognitive deficits: a behavioral and molecular investigation in Swiss albino mice

  • 0Department of Pharmacology, ISF College of Pharmacy, GT Road, Ghal Kalan, Moga 142001 Punjab, India.
Brain Research +

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July 25, 2025

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July 25, 2025

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

This study shows that β-sitosterol (BST) can protect against cognitive impairment caused by type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). BST treatment improved memory and brain health in diabetic mice, highlighting its neuroprotective potential.

Area Of Science

  • Neuroscience
  • Endocrinology
  • Pharmacology

Background

  • Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is linked to long-term cognitive impairment.
  • Understanding the neuroprotective mechanisms against diabetes-induced cognitive deficits is crucial.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To investigate the neuroprotective effects of β-sitosterol (BST) against cognitive impairment in a mouse model of T2DM.
  • To evaluate the impact of BST on cognitive function, metabolic parameters, and neuroinflammation.

Main Methods

  • T2DM was induced in mice using a cafeteria diet and streptozotocin (STZ).
  • Cognitive function was assessed using behavioral tests (radial arm maze, nest building, novel object recognition).
  • Biochemical, molecular, and histopathological analyses were performed on brain tissue and blood samples.

Main Results

  • BST treatment (10 and 20 mg/kg) significantly improved spatial learning, memory, and recognition in T2DM mice.
  • BST ameliorated hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, oxidative stress (restored GSH, CAT; reduced MDA), and neuroinflammation (increased IL-10, reduced IL-1β, TNF-α).
  • BST treatment also modulated key signaling pathways, increasing Akt and decreasing Gsk-3β phosphorylation, suggesting neuroprotection.

Conclusions

  • β-sitosterol demonstrates significant neuroprotective effects against T2DM-induced cognitive deficits.
  • The cognitive benefits of BST are likely mediated by its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and metabolic regulatory properties.
  • BST holds potential as a therapeutic agent for managing cognitive decline associated with type 2 diabetes.

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