Therapeutic Potential of Various Edible Vegetable Extracts for Managing DL-methionine-induced Hyperhomocysteinemia and Oxidative Stress in Wistar Rats

Abstract

Hyperhomocysteinemia, a metabolic disorder characterized by elevated plasma homocysteine levels, is associated with oxidative stress and an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. This study investigated the therapeutic potential of vegetable extracts in mitigating DL-methionine-induced hyperhomocysteinemia and oxidative stress in rats. Plasma homocysteine levels and oxidative stress markers, including malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione (GSH), were assessed. The results showed that hyperhomocysteinemia significantly increased plasma homocysteine and MDA levels while decreasing SOD and GSH (p < 0.05). Treatment with vegetable extracts, particularly S. oleracea and B. oleracea , resulted in a significant reduction in homocysteine and MDA levels, along with an increase in SOD and GSH concentrations (p < 0.05). Pearson’s correlation analysis further demonstrated a strong association between homocysteine and oxidative stress markers. These findings suggest that dietary supplementation with folate- and antioxidant-rich vegetables may serve as an effective strategy for managing hyperhomocysteinemia and reducing oxidative damage.