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Empagliflozin Improves Learning and Memory Deficits in Streptozotocin-Induced Hyperglycemic Male Wistar Rats
Israa H Isawi1, Nour A Al-Sawalha2, Fatema Mahmoud2
1Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan.
Journal of Experimental Pharmacology
|February 19, 2026
Summary
Empagliflozin improved short-term memory in hyperglycemic rats, but its effects on long-term memory and oxidative stress were minimal. Further research is needed to understand its neuroprotective mechanisms.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Endocrinology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, like empagliflozin (Empa), are antidiabetic drugs.
- Empa has shown antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects beyond glucose control.
- SGLT2 is present in the brain, and hyperglycemia is linked to cognitive decline.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the neuroprotective effects of empagliflozin on learning and memory in a rat model of hyperglycemia.
- To explore potential mechanisms involving oxidative stress, BDNF, and NF-κB.
Main Methods:
- Hyperglycemia was induced in male Wistar rats using streptozotocin.
- Rats received empagliflozin treatment.
- Cognitive function was assessed using the radial arm water maze.
- Hippocampal oxidative stress markers, BDNF, and NF-κB were measured.
Main Results:
- Hyperglycemic rats showed impaired learning and memory.
- Empagliflozin significantly improved short-term memory.
- Long-term memory improvement was minimal, with no significant changes in oxidative stress markers, BDNF, or NF-κB.
Conclusions:
- Empagliflozin's benefits on short-term memory in hyperglycemia may involve mechanisms other than direct oxidative stress reduction.
- The role of oxidative stress and inflammation in hyperglycemia-induced cognitive impairment is complex.
- Further studies are required to fully elucidate empagliflozin's neuroprotective mechanisms.
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