Chromium picolinate enhances reproductive success and development in Drosophila melanogaster by reducing oxidative stress

Year 2025, Volume: 29 Issue: 6, 2565 - 2573, 02.11.2025

Shivsharan B. Dhadde Mallinath S. Kalshetti

https://doi.org/10.12991/jrespharm.1798361

https://izlik.org/JA25YA48SW

Abstract

Chromium picolinate (Cr(Pico)₃) is widely recognized for its ability to enhance insulin sensitivity.
However, its broader effects, particularly on reproductive and developmental parameters, have not been extensively
explored. The present study evaluated the impact of Cr(Pico)₃ supplementation on reproductive physiology and
developmental outcomes in Drosophila melanogaster, with an emphasis on oxidative stress modulation. The study
involved treating Drosophila melanogaster with four doses of Cr(Pico)₃ (5, 10, 15, and 20 µg/ml of diet) and monitoring
key reproductive and developmental parameters, such as larval and pupal periods, pupation rates, adult fly emergence,
and egg hatching. The results demonstrated that supplementation with Cr(Pico)₃ at 15 µg/ml significantly shortened
larval and pupal periods by 8.0% and 6.4%, respectively (p < 0.001), and improved the percentage of pupae and adult
fly emergence by 7.8% and 7.4%, respectively. Additionally, Cr(Pico)₃ enhanced fecundity by 13.9% and fertility by
13.6% at 15 µg/ml, compared to the control group. Antioxidant enzyme activities, including catalase (CAT), superoxide
dismutase (SOD), and glutathione-S-transferase (GST), were also significantly elevated in Cr(Pico)₃-treated flies (p <
0.05), suggesting a strong defence against oxidative stress. These results indicate that Cr(Pico)₃ can enhance
reproductive success and developmental efficiency by promoting antioxidant defence mechanisms. Further studies are
warranted to explore the potential of Cr(Pico)₃ in other model organisms, with broader implications for its use in
addressing human oxidative stress-related reproductive dysfunction.

Keywords

Chromium picolinate , Dietary supplement , oxidative stress , fertility , fecundity , antioxidant enzymes

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