Studies to evaluate reduced oxidative stress as a mechanism of action of anticataract effects of liposomal form of magnesium taurate / Fatin Kamilah Zakaria

Cataract, the lenticular opacities, develop due to increased lens oxidative stress and altered ionic balance. Our previous studies showed that magnesium taurate in aqueous form delay the development of galactose-induced cataract. However, these effects were more pronounced in vitro indicating significant permeability barriers for absorption of magnesium taurate. In the current study, we evaluated the anticataract effects of magnesium taurate loaded liposomes in comparison with its aqueous preparation and studied its effects on lenticular oxidative stress. In study 1, among the 5 groups of rats (n=9), group 1 received normal diet, while groups 2-5 received 25% galactose diet. Groups 4 and 5 received aqueous and liposomal magnesium taurate respectively, while groups 2 and 3 received corresponding vehicles. Cataract progression was assessed by weekly slit lamp examination over 28 days. The formulation showing better efficacy was chosen for study 2 in which among the 4 groups of rats (n= 18), group 1 received normal diet and groups 2-4 received 25% galactose diet. Group 2 received vehicle; groups 3 and 4 received magnesium taurate and taurine respectively for 28 days. Cataract progression was assessed weekly. Subsequently, lenticular reduced glutathione (GSH), activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase, malondialdehyde (MDA), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) protein, nitrotyrosine and proteins were measured using ELISA.