Antioxidant effects of astaxanthin and metformin combined therapy in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients: a randomized double-blind controlled clinical trial

Since the critical role of oxidative stress in the pathogenesis and complications of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has been proven, antioxidant therapy is considered an applicable strategy to control T2DM development. This study aimed at evaluating the effect of astaxanthin (AST) supplementation combined with metformin on oxidative indices and antioxidant defenses in T2DM patients.

Experimental approach: 

In this randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled trial, 50 T2DM subjects receiving metformin were supplemented with 10 mg/day AST or placebo for 12 weeks. Malondialdehyde concentration and serum total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were assessed as oxidative indices. We also evaluated NF-E2-related factor2 (Nrf2) as the most critical transcription factor of antioxidant defense. Moreover, the activity of antioxidant enzymes, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase were calculated. 

Findings/ Results:

AST supplementation-metformin combination caused a significant increase in SOD and catalase activities, as well as inducing Nrf2 protein expression compared to the placebo group. Significant changes in serum malondialdehyde and TAC between the AST group and placebo group after supplementation were not observed, although a significant increase was observed in TAC within the AST group after supplementation (32.67 ± 6.73) to before (25.86 ± 5.98). These results remained without change after adjustment for potential confounders.

Conclusion and implications: 

Our study demonstrated that AST supplementation controlled oxidative stress through a synergistic effect with metformin and ameliorated overall antioxidant capacity by inducing Nrf2 transcription factor and activating SOD and catalase in T2DM patients. As a result, AST and metformin combination therapy can be considered beneficial in modifying oxidative stress and preventing T2DM complications.