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: The present study was aimed to investigate the possible effects of [beta]-casomorphin-7, against hyperglycemia and free radical-mediated oxidative stress in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats by assaying the blood glucose level and the activity of plasma enzymatic antioxidants, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px). A significant increase in the levels of both blood glucose and oxidative stress with a predominant decrease in antioxidant status was observed in the diabetic rats when compared to control rats. After 15 days oral administration of [beta]-casomorphin-7 (7.5 x 10-8mol/day), the elevated blood glucose level was reduced. Oral administration of [beta]-CM-7 to diabetic rats showed an increase in the level of plasma insulin, the elevated plasma glucagon level was markedly reduced by the oral administration of [beta]-CM-7. Oral administration of [beta]-CM-7 to the diabetic group of rats also showed a significant elevation in the activity of SOD and catalase. Thus, the results of the present study suggest that [beta]-casomorphin-7 can protect rats from hyperglycemia and free radical-mediated oxidative stress in diabetic rats.

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