Evaluation of the noni juice effect (Morinda citrifolia Linn) on wound healing in diabetic rats

• Grant number: 17/08378-3
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: February 01, 2018
• End date: September 30, 2018
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Medicine - Pathological Anatomy and Clinical Pathology
• Principal Investigator: Tamara Veiga Faria
• Grantee: Maria Fernanda Ribeiro Cury
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Medicina em São José do Rio Preto (FACERES). São José do Rio Preto , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Introduction: Morinda citrifolia Linn (Noni) is a plant native to Southeast Asia, recently introduced in the Brazilian regions as a food source and herbal raw material. Anthraquinone, a compound isolated from extracts of the Noni fruit, is one of the main substances responsible for wound healing. This organic compound stimulates the migration and activation of fibroblasts, in addition to decreasing the production of metalloproteinases (MMPs). In individuals with Diabetes Mellitus, anthraquinones also play a significant role in the inhibition of MMPs, favoring the cicatricial process. Objective: To evaluate the effect of Noni on the healing of diabetic rats; Specific Objectives: To evaluate the effect of Noni juice on the glycemia of diabetic rats; To evaluate the healing time of wounds in diabetic rats treated with Noni juice; Correlate healing time with glycemic values; To evaluate possible renal and hepatic changes related to the use of Noni; To evaluate the weight of the animals during the period of treatment and food intake; To evaluate the results of biochemical analyzes (ALT- (Alanine aminotransferase), AST- (aspartate aminotransferase), creatinine, urea levels; Materials and Methods: Fourteen male Wistar rats will be used, which will undergo chemical induction of diabetes using intraperitoneal Alloxane. Only animals that develop diabetes will be used in this study, through eligibility criteria. The wound will be performed by removal of skin fragment from the back of the anesthetized animal. The rats will be divided into 2 groups, control group (C) (n = 7) and noni group (N) (n = 7), both containing animals with lesion and diabetes. To evaluate the therapeutic response, the lesions will be photographed and measured daily with a digital caliper. When complete healing of the wound is verified, the animals will be euthanized by high anesthetic doses, making histological sections for analysis under a microscope. (AU)