We investigated the potential of Tinospora cordifolia (TC) in treatment of diabetic retinopathy in STZinduced
rats due to its antihyperglycemic, angiogenic, antiinflammatory and antioxidant effects. The diabetic
rats, treated for 24 weeks with TC extract (250 mg/kg), were evaluated for lenticular and fundus
changes. Biochemical parameters were estimated and histopathological studies performed. TC significantly
reduced blood glucose and glycated hemoglobin in treated rats. It prevented cataract development
in treated group. Angiogenic markers VEGF and PKC increased in diabetic retina, which reduced significantly
with TC. Anti-inflammatory parameters TNF-a and IL-1b elevated in diabetic group unlike that in
treated group. TC also provided defense against depletion of antioxidant enzymes- glutathione and
catalase. Histopathological studies revealed thickening of basement membrane of the retinal and glomerular
vasculature of diabetic rat, but no basement membrane widening was seen in treated animals.
Destruction of pancreatic islet structure was observed in diabetic group, but not in treated. Thus, TC
reduces blood glucose and inhibits overexpression of angiogenic and inflammatory mediators, which
are distinct markers of diabetic retinopathy. It also prevents retinal oxidative stress and restores antioxidant
enzyme levels. These data provide evidence for the safety and potential effect of TC in the management
of experimental diabetic retinopathy.