Role of Intermittent Fasting on Improvement of Cognitive Functions in Rat Model of Type 2 Diabetes

Abstract

Background: The link between diabetes mellitus and cognitive impairment becomes evident, making it important to find means to  maintain cognitive performance in diabetic patients. Keeping normal cognitive functions is crucial for maintaining an active, independent  lifestyle. Intermittent fasting (IF) is an eating regimen in which a period of eating alternates with fasting period each day. During fasting,  diet may include low amount or non-caloric food. IF could promote neurogenesis and cognition.

Aim: Evaluation of the role of IF on cognitive functions in adult male type 2 diabetic albino rats.

Methods: The study included 24 adult male albino rats weighing 120-190 gm. Rats assigned into three groups 8 rats each: control group  (C) had free access to chow and water; Diabetic group (DM) type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) was induced with high fat diet for two weeks  then intraperitoneal injection with 35 mg/kg of streptozotocin; Intermittent fasting group (IF) after T2DM induction, rats were subjected  to 3 months of 18 hours/day fasting. At the end of the experiment, memory and mood were assessed using modified T Maze test and  modified forced swimming test respectively. Then rats were sacrificed, and hippocampal samples were collected for superoxide dismutase (SOD), and malondialdehyde (MDA) assay.

Results: Three months IF caused a significant increase in spontaneous alternation  in modified T Maze test results; IF group (P<0.001) versus DM group. A significant decrease in immobility time (seconds) in IF group  versus DM rats (P<0.001). IF group had significantly lower MDA levels than DM group (P<0.001).

Conclusions: IF has improved memory  and mood in T2DM rats. This may be attributed partially to oxidative stress alleviation.