Abstract
Background: Purple laver ((Porphyra dentate) is a popular edible seaweed in Asia. This study examined protective effects of extract from purple laver extract (PLE) in diabetic mice. Methods: Content of carotenoids and anthocyanins in PLE was analyzed. PLE at 0.5 and 1% was supplied for 7 weeks. Results: PLE was rich in anthocyanins. PLE intake at 0.5 and 1% lowered plasma glucose level (P<0.05); only at 1% raised plasma insulin level, and decreased plasma triglyceride and total cholesterol levels (P<0.05). PLE treatments at 1% lowered hepatic triglyceride and total cholesterol (P<0.05); it reduced renal reactive oxygen species level (P<0.05); retained renal glutathione level, maintaining renal glutathione peroxidase and catalase activities (P<0.05). Conclusion: Porphyra dentate aqueous extract could attenuate diabetic progression via anti-oxidative and lipid lowering effects. This seaweed could be considered as potent healthy food, and used for personalized medicine.