Modulation of Glucose Homeostasis and Behavioral Parameters by Passiflora edulis in a Rodent Model of Metabolic Syndrome Induced by High Fructose Intake

Pharmacognosy Research,2025,17,4,1298-1302.DOI:10.5530/pres.20252369Published:August 2025Type:Original ArticleAuthors:Kinjal P. Patel, Rajesh A. Maheshwari, Nilay Solanki, and Jagdish Kakadiya Author(s) affiliations:Kinjal P. Patel1,*, Rajesh A. Maheshwari1, Nilay Solanki2, Jagdish Kakadiya3 1Department of Pharmacy, Sumandeep Vidyapeeth Deemed to be University, Piparia, Vadodara, Gujarat, INDIA. 2Ramanbhai Patel College of Pharmacy, Charotar University of Science and Technology, CHARUSAT Campus, Changa, Gujarat, INDIA. 3Department of Pharmacology, Parul Institute of Pharmacy and Research, Parul University, Vadodara, Gujarat, INDIA. Abstract:Background: Syndrome X (Metabolic syndrome), commonly associated with high-fructose dietary intake, is characterized by insulin resistance, hyperglycemia, and related neurobehavioral impairments. Passiflora edulis Extract (EPE), rich in bioactive compounds, is investigated for its potential therapeutic effects on fructose-induced MS. Materials and Methods: A total of five groups were formed using female Wistar rats (200-250 g, n=6). Group I served as the control group; Group II was exposed to 20% fructose to induce metabolic syndrome; Groups III to V received fructose along with EPE at 250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg doses, respectively, for a duration of 8 weeks. Biochemical parameters (blood glucose, insulin, HOMA-IR) and behavioral markers (locomotor activity, immobility time, fall time, paw withdrawal time) were recorded. Serum insulin was measured, and HOMA-IR was calculated. Results: Chronic fructose intake significantly increased blood glucose, insulin, and HOMA-IR values, indicating metabolic disruption. EPE administration significantly reduced these values in a dose-dependent manner, with the highest efficacy observed at 1000 mg/kg. EPE also improved behavioral outcomes: it increased fall time and locomotor activity, while decreasing immobility time and paw withdrawal time, demonstrating improvements in motor coordination, depressive-like behavior, and pain sensitivity. Effects were more pronounced at higher EPE doses. Conclusion: EPE significantly ameliorated both metabolic and neurobehavioral impairments induced by fructose in rats. Its dose-dependent efficacy suggests promising as a plant-based therapeutic for controlling metabolic syndrome and related behavioral dysfunctions. Keywords:Behavioral Markers, Fructose, HOMA-IR, Insulin resistance, Metabolic Syndrome, Passiflora edulis ExtractView:PDF (256.7 KB)