Fig. 1
Experimental procedure overview. This schematic diagram outlines the experimental methodology. After 4 weeks of being on a high-fat diet (Purina # 5008), a ZDF rat model for T2DM with DE was established and categorized for treatment, using ZL rats as the normal control. The ZDF rats were continuously fed a high-fat diet, while the ZL rats were on a normal diet. The drug administration was a daily routine. Throughout the experiment, various parameters were measured. Body weight, food and water intakes, and blood biochemicals such as fasting and postprandial glucose (n = 8) were assessed every 2 weeks. Additionally, HbA1c,TC, and TG (n = 8) were measured every 4 weeks. At the 8th week (animal 20 weeks of age), the Y-maze test (n = 6) was conducted to evaluate cognitive behavior, and MRA (n = 2) was utilized for cerebrovascular imaging observations. Subsequently, blood samples were taken to detect glucose, TC, TG, HbA1c, NO, PGI2, and TXA2 (n = 8) before sacrifice. Brain tissue was then collected for histopathological observation (n = 8) after euthanasia