Óleo da amêndoa da castanha de caju (Anacardium occidentali) reduz a glicemia por meio de diferentes mecanismos no metabolismo da glicose em modelo experimental

Abstract

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is increasing worldwide and is strongly associated with insulin resistance, chronic inflammation, and oxidative stress, conditions worsened by diets high in refined carbohydrates. Evidence suggests that replacing these with foods rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, such as cashew nuts and their oil, can improve glycemic control. This study evaluated the effects of cashew nut almond oil (CNAO), extracted by EMBRAPA, on glycemic, inflammatory, and oxidative parameters in an experimental model of hyperglycemia. Aims: In this study, the biological activities of cashew nut oil were investigated in preclinical models of glucose homeostasis. Main methods: In male C57Bl6 mice, a dose-response curve was performed in the Glucose Tolerance Test (GTT) with cashew nut oil (1, 0.5 and 0.1 g/kg p.o.). GLP-1 levels, glycogen content, GSH activities and MDA levels were investigated in these animals. α-glucosidase activity was investigated in vivo and in vitro. Dexamethasone-induced insulin resistance was evaluated. Cell viability and death were evaluated in C2C12 myotubes (Mus musculus). Key findings: Cashew nut oil (0.5 g/kg) acutely reduces blood glucose levels, increases GLP-1 and glycogen levels. It also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action in the skeletal muscle tissue of these animals. Cashew nut oil treatment inhibits the activity of α-glucosidase enzymes in vivo and in vitro. Finally, consecutive treatment for 5 days with cashew nut oil (0.5 and 0.1 gkg p.o.) restored insulin sensitivity in a similar way to treatment with the drug semaglutide. Significance: These analyses allowed to verify the preclinical efficacy of cashew nut oil consumption, which can be a useful functional food in the treatment of diabetes and associated metabolic disorders.