Capsaicin Mitigates Insulin Resistance-Driven Prostate Hyperplasia Via IGF-1 Signalling Modulation in HFD + STZ Rat Model.

Abstract

Insulin Resistance (IR) is usually associated with elevated glucose levels and hyperinsulinemia. Elevated insulin levels during IR contribute to prostate enlargement and can lead to the condition of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). This study investigated the effects of capsaicin, a bioactive compound derived from chilli peppers, on IR-induced prostatic hyperplasia. High-fat diet (HFD) combined with streptozotocin (STZ) was used to induce IR in rats. Rats subjected to HFD + STZ exhibited elevated fasting blood glucose, insulin levels and an increased Prostate weight, confirming IR-induced prostate enlargement. Capsaicin administration significantly ameliorated fasting glucose and insulin levels, reduced prostate weight and mitigated histopathological alterations. Furthermore, capsaicin treatment downregulated IGF-1 expression, suggesting its potential role in modulating IGF-1 signalling involved in cellular proliferation and differentiation and reversing prostate hyperplasia. These findings open up new avenue for exploring more about capsaicin as a possible therapeutic candidate for managing IR-induced prostatic hyperplasia.