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PROTECTIVE ROLE OF THE GREEN ALGA ULVA LACTUCA AGAINST OXIDATIVE STRESS IN TYPE 2 DIABETES: IN VITRO AND IN VIVO EVIDENCE

FATIMA ZOHRA LABBACI 1,2*, HAMZA BELKHODJA 3, FATIMA ZOHRA EL KADI 4, MD MAHEDI HASSAN TUSHER 5, FARIDA OUDA BOUKORTT 1

1 Laboratory of Clinical and Metabolic Nutrition, Faculty of Natural and Life Sciences. University of Oran 1 Ahmed Ben Bella, 31000, Algeria
2 Laboratory of physical chemistry of macromolecules and biological interface, University of Mustapha Stambouli, Mascara, 29000, Algeria
3 Laboratory of Bioconversion, Microbiology Engineering and Health Safety, University of Mustapha Stambouli, Mascara, 29000, Algeria
4 Laboratory of Molecular Microbiology Health and Proteomics, Biology Department, Faculty of Natural Sciences and Life, Djillali Liabès University of Sidi-Bel-Abbés, 22000, Algeria
5 Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Bangladesh University of Health Sciences (BUHS), Dhaka, Bangladesh

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This study investigates the phytochemical composition, antioxidant activity, and cytoprotective potential of Ulva lactuca hy- droethanolic extracts. The extract was subjected to standard phytochemical screening, confirming the presence of bioactive compounds including polyphenols, flavonoids, tannins, and terpenoids. Quantitative analysis indicated high levels of carbohy- drates and proteins, with strong antioxidant potential (IC₅₀ = 0.26 mg/mL). Experimental type 2 diabetes was induced in adult rats through a high-fat diet (HFD) followed by a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (35 mg/kg). Oxidative stress markers (lipid peroxidation, hydroperoxides, protein carbonyls), antioxidant enzyme activities, paraoxonase-1 (PON1), and non-enzymatic antioxidants were assessed in serum, red blood cells, lipoproteins, and tissues. Treatment with either whole algae or its extract significantly reduced oxidative stress markers and restored antioxidant enzyme activities, thiol content, and levels of vitamins C and E. Notably, the extract showed greater efficacy in kidneys and red blood cells, while whole algae enhanced PON1 activity and preserved vitamin status. These findings demonstrate the potent antioxidant and protective effects of U. lactuca and support its potential role in mitigating oxidative damage and complications associated with type 2 diabetes.