Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is associated with severe immune system complications.
Camel whey protein (CWP) decreases free radicals (ROS) and modulates immune functions,
but its effect on DM-impaired immune systems has not been studied. We investigated
the impact of CWP on the immune system in a Type 1 diabetes mouse model. Methods:
Three experimental groups were used: (1) non-diabetic control; (2) diabetic; and (3) CWPtreated
diabetic mice. Results: Induction of diabetes by streptozotocin was associated with
reduction of body weight and insulin level, increase in glucose level and pro-inflammatory
cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α), and reduction in IL-2 and IL-4 levels. Upregulated ATF-3
expression was followed by a marked elevation in ROS levels. Lymphocytes from diabetic
mice exhibited increased apoptosis through decreased phosphorylation of AKT and I