ABSTRACT
Cataract is a clouding that develops in the crystalline lens of the eye leading to opacity. In this study we investigated the efficiency of curcumin and Vitamin E to regulate the altered levels of Ca+2, Na+ and K+ ions in cataract induced rat lens. Also specific activity of aldose reductase and the total and soluble lenticular protein levels in the lens were compared in treated as well as control groups of rats. The data was analyzed using one-way ANOVA, followed by post hoc test multiple comparisons and Karl Pearson’s correlation. Feeding of rats with Curcumin and Vitamin E had resulted in a significant decrease (p<0.05) in Na+ and Ca2+ concentrations and an increase (p<0.05) in K+ concentration which is otherwise found to be raised in cataractous condition. Also, a decrease in the specific activity of Aldose Reductase was found along with the conservation of total and soluble lenticular protein levels in lens treated with Curcumin and Vitamin E compared to cataract induced lens.
ABSTRACT
Natural dietary ingredients are known for their antioxidant activity. Of such, curcumin, the active principle of turmeric, at 0.01% in the diet proved as pro-oxidative in galactose-induced cataract in vivo. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of vitamin E (VE), a well-known antioxidant, in combination with curcumin on the onset and maturation of galactose induced cataract. Periodic slit-lamp microscope examination indicated that in combination with vitamin-E, 0.01% curcumin (G-IV) delayed the onset and maturation of galactose-induced cataract. Biochemical analyses revealed that combined treatment of 0.01% curcumin and vitamin-E diet exhibited an efficient antioxidant effect, as it inhibited lipid peroxidation and contributed to a distinct rise in reduced glutathione content. The results indicate that natural dietary ingredients are effective in combination rather than the individual administration as they are complementing each other in reducing the risk of galactose induced cataract.