Ethnopharmacological relevance: Urtica dioica Linn. is a medicinal herb that belongs to the Urticaceae family. It is found in several countries worldwide and has numerous health-related benefits, including neuroprotection, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory effects. U. dioica has shown potential efficacy in treating diabetic neuropathy.
Aim of the study: This study aimed to systematically review the neuroprotective effects of U. dioica in diabetic models and explore the relationship between molecular and behavioral outcomes.
Materials and methods: A comprehensive search was conducted in several databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Science Direct, and the Cochrane Library. Only preclinical studies conducted on diabetic animal models with neural dysfunction were included. Eligible studies were required to have specific controlled groups and evaluate neural outcomes through behavioral tests or molecular investigations. Two authors independently extracted data according to the predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Of the 1398 studies identified, 11 met the inclusion criteria and were included in this review.
Results: U. dioica has been demonstrated to have beneficial effects in mitigating diabetes-induced neural dysfunction. These effects are likely mediated through mechanisms such as reducing oxidative stress and neuroinflammation, modulating insulin signaling pathways, and promoting neurogenesis. Evidence has shown that U. dioica consumption has positive effects on neuronal density in diabetes-affected neural tissues.
Conclusions: Preclinical findings suggest that U. dioica consumption may protect against diabetes-associated neural dysfunction. While these results highlight its potential as a complementary strategy for mitigating diabetic neuropathy, further research, including clinical trials, is required for validation.
Keywords: Animal model; Astrocytes; Diabetes; Neuroprotection; Systematic review; Urtica dioica Linn..
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