Momordica charantia Prevents Reproductive and Neurological Dysfunctions in Drosophila melanogaster Models of Type 2 Diabetes

ABSTRACT Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) poses a significant global health threat, compounded by factors such as obesity and lifestyle. This study investigates the anti-diabetic, reproductive, and neuroprotective effects of Momordica charantia (MC) in preventing T2DM. We used a high-calorie sucrose diet (2.5 g/10 g diet) to induce T2DM in Harwich and Indigenous strains of Drosophila melanogaster . Concurrently, we administered varying concentrations of MC (100 mg, 150 mg, and 200 mg/10 g diet) and 16 mg of metformin for 10 days. M. charantia significantly improved egg-laying ability in Indigenous and Harwich strains. Specifically, 150 mg and 200 mg doses significantly (p<0.01) enhanced egg-laying ability in Indigenous and Harwich strains, respectively. Additionally, 100 mg and 200 mg doses significantly rescued filial generation output in Harwich and Indigenous strains, respectively. M. charantia at the lowest dose (100 mg) reduced neuromuscular activity (p < 0.01) in both strains. Our results demonstrate that M. charantia prevents the onset of T2DM, improving reproductive fitness and reducing neuromuscular impairments associated with hyperglycemia. These findings suggest that M. charantia may be a promising therapeutic agent for preventing T2DM and its associated complications.