Effect of Crude Aloe vera Gel on Serum Enzymes, Proteins and Liver Histology in Alloxan - Induced Diabetic Rats

Considering the wide use of Aloe vera gel in the management of Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM), this study was designed to ascertain the effects of T1DM on serum enzymes and proteins, as well as the impact of treatment with Aloe vera gel on same. Forty male Wistar rats weighing 150 - 180 g were randomly assigned into 4 groups (n = 10), namely, control group; test groups 1 (DM untreated); 2 (DM treated) and 3 (control treated). Diabetes was induced by intraperitoneal administration of 100 mg/kg alloxan. Freshly prepared Aloe vera gel was administered to test groups 2 and 3 at a dose of 0.4 ml/100g per oral route for 21 days. The animals were sacrificed, and serum enzymes and proteins were measured using standard methods. Liver histology was also prepared using standard methods. Serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) concentration was significantly higher (P