Research Projects

Edible insects, such as Hydrous indicus and Gryllotalpa orientalis, are considered a nutritious and environmentally sustainable alternative to animal proteins due to their reduced ecological impact and high nutritional value. Entomophagy, the practice of eating insects, plays a significant role in cultural and traditional practices in Manipur, India, a north eastern state. These insects are commonly consumed by the natives for their delicacy and potential as good protein sources. They are also used in folklore medicines for treating ailments like cough, fever, dog bite, irritation, bowel movement problems, body sores, abdominal dropsy, urinary retention, etc. However, there is no published literature on the nutraceutical potential of these edible insects and no scientific validations for their use in treating various ailments. This study aims to evaluate the protective nutraceutical and potential efficacy of H. indicus and G. orientalis for atherosclerosis disorders and identify potential therapeutic targets for atherosclerosis and obesity in high fat diet-induced obese rats. The study will involve measuring essential metals, fatty acids, and amino acids composition in the two edible insects, and maintaining each group for a one or two month period. The abdominal and epididymidal fat weight will be measured, and the composition of fatty acid will be analyzed using GC/MS. Gene-expression profiles of important antioxidant enzymes like SOD, CAT, and GPX will be studied in the high fat diet fed wistar rats.