The Effect of Saffron and its Active Compounds on Oxidative Stress Markers in Diabetic Rats: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Animal Studies

Background: Diabetes, as a chronic metabolic disease, can induce oxidative stress, leading to severe damage to various tissues, including the kidneys, heart, and others. This study aimed to assess the influence of saffron and its active component on oxidative stress markers in diabetic rats. Methods: The databases were searched until December 24, 2021. The quality of the included articles was assessed using SYRCLE’s Risk of Bias tool. To estimate the effects of saffron and its active component, SMD with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were pooled using a random-effects model. Subgroup analysis and meta-regression were used to explore heterogeneity. Publication bias was assessed using the Begg and Egger tests. The results were reported under the PRISMA guidelines. Results: The meta-analysis comprising 42 articles revealed that prolonged hyperglycemia leads to increased oxidative markers, including malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), total oxidant status (TOS), xanthine oxidase (XO), and reactive oxygen species (ROS)), and decreased antioxidant defense system, including glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), total antioxidant status (TAS), thiol groups (SH), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC). Treatment of diabetic rats with saffron, crocin, and safranal decreased the oxidant markers and increased the antioxidant markers. Conclusion: Saffron, crocin, and safranal reduce oxidative stress by reinforcing the antioxidant defense system and reducing oxidant markers. Hence, we believe that saffron and its active ingredients can be favorable options for managing diabetes and its complications. However, further human studies are required to draw definite conclusions.