Study Tests the Efficacy of Ruthenium Compound in Addressing Pre-Diabetic Complications

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Dr Lindokuhle Mabuza’s PhD in Health Sciences (Medical Biochemistry) evaluated the Effects of a Ruthenium (II) Complex in the Presence and/or Absence of Dietary Intervention on Selected Pre-Diabetic Complications in Diet-Induced Pre-Diabetes.

The thesis was supervised by UKZN’s Dr Andile Khathi.

The results suggest that the ruthenium (II) complex exhibited hepatoprotective and renoprotective effects while ameliorating immune dysregulation underlying pre-diabetes in diet-induced pre-diabetic rats. However, further studies are required to determine the exact mechanism behind the potential effect of this metal-based compound.

Pre-diabetic patients are at increased risk of developing other pathologies such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, diabetic nephropathy and immune dysregulation complications. Once diagnosed, both pharmacotherapy and lifestyle modification are recommended. However, there is generally poor patient compliance in terms of dietary interventions as patients tend to rely heavily on pharmacological treatment, thus reducing the efficacy of the drug. There is hence, a need for novel drugs that will remain therapeutic even in the absence of dietary modification.

Mabuza is currently busy with her last manuscript for a peer-reviewed journal, which focuses on pre-diabetes immune dysregulation complications. She is also writing a literature review for her proposed post-doctoral study and job hunting.

’UKZN is one of the best universities in South Africa and I knew that it would be a great platform for me to fulfil my dream. I also wanted to learn more about the Zulu culture,’ said Mabuza, who hails from Mpumalanga province.

Words: Lihle Sosibo

Photograph: Supplied