Antihyperglycemic effect of Hypericum perforatum ethyl acetate extract on streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

Tauroursodeoxycholic Acid (TUDCA) Relieves Streptozotocin (STZ)-Induced Diabetic Rat Model via Modulation of Lipotoxicity, Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Apoptosis

Tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA) is approved for the treatment of liver diseases. However, the antihyperglycemic effects/mechanisms of TUDCA are still less clear. The present study aimed to evaluate the antidiabetic action of TUDCA in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in rats. Fifteen adult Wistar albino male rats were randomly divided into three groups (n = five in each): control, diabetic (STZ), and STZ+TUDCA. The results showed that TUDCA treatment significantly reduced blood glucose, HbA1c%, and HOMA-IR as well as elevated the insulin levels in diabetic rats. TUDCA therapy increased the incretin GLP-1 concentrations, decreased serum ceramide synthase (CS), improved the serum lipid profile, and restored the glycogen content in the liver and skeletal muscles. Furthermore, serum inflammatory parameters (such as TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1ß, and PGE-2) were substantially reduced with TUDCA treatment. In the pancreas, STZ+TUDCA-treated rats underwent an obvious enhancement of enzymatic (CAT and SOD) and non-enzymatic (GSH) antioxidant defense systems and a marked decrease in markers of the lipid peroxidation rate (MDA) and nitrosative stress (NO) compared to STZ-alone. At the molecular level, TUDCA decreased the pancreatic mRNA levels of iNOS and apoptotic-related factors (p53 and caspase-3). In conclusion, TUDCA may be useful for diabetes management and could be able to counteract diabetic disorders via anti-hyperlipidemic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic actions.

Hypericum perforatum: a comprehensive review on pharmacognosy, preclinical studies, putative molecular mechanism, and clinical studies in neurodegenerative diseases

The herb Hypericum perforatum, also referred to as St. John's wort, has drawn a lot of interest because of its potential therapeutic benefits in treating neurodegenerative illnesses. Due to the absence of effective therapies, illnesses like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease pose an increasing worldwide health concern. Because of its wide variety of phytochemicals, especially hyperforin, and hypericin, Hypericum perforatum is well known for its neuroprotective properties. These substances have proven to be able to affect different cellular processes linked to neurodegeneration. They can act as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neurotransmitter system regulators, which may help halt neurodegenerative illnesses' progression. The use of Hypericum perforatum extracts and its contents has shown encouraging results in research on animal models of neurodegenerative disorders. These advantages include higher nerve cell survival, lowered oxidative stress, and higher cognitive performance. Underscoring its versatile potential to combat neurodegeneration, Hypericum perforatum has neuroprotective mechanisms that modulate neuroinflammation and prevent apoptotic pathways. In conclusion, Hypericum perforatum shows tremendous promise as a potential treatment for neurological illnesses due to its wide variety of phytochemicals. To completely comprehend its specific mechanisms of action and turn these discoveries into efficient clinical therapies, additional research is needed. Investigating Hypericum perforatum's function in neurodegenerative disorders may present new opportunities for the advancement of ground-breaking therapeutic strategies.

Hypoglycemia and anxiolysis mediated by levofloxacin treatment in diabetic rats

Purpose

The present study was designed to determine the effect of levofloxacin (LVX) treatment on the blood glucose level, insulin sensitivity, anxiety level, nitrite and MDA level of STZ induced diabetic rats.

Methods

Wistar rats were used in the present study. The rats were made diabetic by the administration of single dose of STZ (45 mg/kg, i.p.) and NAD (50 mg/kg, i.p.). The rats with the blood glucose level greater than 200 mg/dl were considered as diabetic (confirmed at day-3 of STZ-NAD administration). The non-diabetic rats were considered as control and received saline.Diabetic rats received metformin (50 mg/kg, p.o.) and LVX (20, 25, 30 and 35 mg/kg, i.p.) daily for 14 days (starting from the day at which STZ was injected). Following administration on 14th day,the blood sample was collected and the rats were subjected to behavioral assays for the determination of locomotor activity and anxiety level. Plasma was separated and used for the estimation ofnitrite and malondialdehyde (MDA)level. On 15th day OGTT was performed in the overnight fasted rats for the assessment of insulin sensitivity.

Results

The results obtained suggested that the administration of STZ-NAD induced the hyperglycemia at day-3 of administration. Diabetic rats displayed the significant increase in blood glucose, anxiety related behavior, MDA level while significant decrease in the insulin sensitivity and plasma nitrite level. Daily administration of metformin to the diabetic rats decreased the blood glucose level, increased the time spent at the center of open field, reversed the anxiety related behavior in LDT and EPM, did not affect the plasma nitrite level, decreased the plasma MDA level, decreased the fasting glucose level and AUC in OGTT assay. LVX (30 and 35 mg/kg) treatment significantly decreased the blood glucose level of diabetic rats. LVX (20, 25 and 30 mg/kg) treatment significantly decreased the number of square crossing while LVX (20, 25, 30 and 35) treatment significantly increased the time spent at the center of the field by the diabetic rats. LVX (20 and 35 mg/kg) treatment significantly reversed the STZ induced anxiety in LDT while LVX (20, 30 and 35 mg/kg) treatment significantly reversed the STZ induced anxiety in EPM test. LVX (20, 25 and 35 mg/kg) treatment significantly increased the plasma nitrite level and LVX (20-35 mg/kg) treatment significantly decreased the MDA level of diabetic rats. Further only LVX (35 mg/kg) treatment significantly decreased the fasting glucose level and increased the AUC of diabetic rats.

Conclusion

In conclusion, STZ-NAD administration increased the blood glucose level, anxiety related behavior, decreased the plasma nitrite and increased the MDA level. LVX administration potentiated the diabetogenic effects of STZ-NAD in rats. Daily administration of LVX decreased the blood glucose level of diabetic rats. LVX administration alleviated the STZ induced anxiety in OFT, LDT and EPM test. LVX administration increased the plasma nitrite level and decreased the lipid peroxidation in diabetic rats.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40200-023-01234-0.

Hypericum perforatum L. and the Underlying Molecular Mechanisms for Its Choleretic, Cholagogue, and Regenerative Properties

Any defects in bile formation, secretion, or flow may give rise to cholestasis, liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. As the pathogenesis of hepatic disorders is multifactorial, targeting parallel pathways potentially increases the outcome of therapy. Hypericum perforatum has been famed for its anti-depressive effects. However, according to traditional Persian medicine, it helps with jaundice and acts as a choleretic medication. Here, we will discuss the underlying molecular mechanisms of Hypericum for its use in hepatobiliary disorders. Differentially expressed genes retrieved from microarray data analysis upon treatment with safe doses of Hypericum extract and intersection with the genes involved in cholestasis are identified. Target genes are located mainly at the endomembrane system with integrin-binding ability. Activation of α5β1 integrins, as osmo-sensors in the liver, activates a non-receptor tyrosine kinase, c-SRC, which leads to the insertion of bile acid transporters into the canalicular membrane to trigger choleresis. Hypericum upregulates CDK6 that controls cell proliferation, compensating for the bile acid damage to hepatocytes. It induces ICAM1 to stimulate liver regeneration and regulates nischarin, a hepatoprotective receptor. The extract targets the expression of conserved oligomeric Golgi (COG) and facilitates the movement of bile acids toward the canalicular membrane via Golgi-derived vesicles. In addition, Hypericum induces SCP2, an intracellular cholesterol transporter, to maintain cholesterol homeostasis. We have also provided a comprehensive view of the target genes affected by Hypericum's main metabolites, such as hypericin, hyperforin, quercitrin, isoquercitrin, quercetin, kaempferol, rutin, and p-coumaric acid to enlighten a new scope in the management of chronic liver disorders. Altogether, standard trials using Hypericum as a neo-adjuvant or second-line therapy in ursodeoxycholic-acid-non-responder patients define the future trajectories of cholestasis treatment with this product.

Hypericum perforatum L. extract exerts insulinotropic effects and inhibits gluconeogenesis in diabetic rats by regulating AMPK expression and PKCε concentration

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Hypericum perforatum L., commonly known as St. John's Wort (SJW), represents one of the best-known and most thoroughly researched medicinal plant species. The ethnobotanical usage and bioactivities related to H. perforatum include treatment of skin diseases, wounds and burns, gastrointestinal problems, urogenital diseases and psychiatric disorders, particularly depression. In the last decade, many studies focused on the bioactive constituents responsible for the antihyperglycemic and antidiabetic activity of SJW extracts. However, the mechanism by which H. perforatum extract exhibits these properties is still unclear. Hence, the current study was designed to gain insight into the underlying biochemical and molecular mechanisms by which wildly growing H. perforatum exerts its antihyperglycemic and antidiabetic activities.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Plant material of H. perforatum was harvested from a natural population in the Republic of North Macedonia during full flowering season. Methanol (80% v/v) was used to extract bioactive components from HH powder. The dissolved HH dry extract (in 0.3% CMC) was given daily as a single treatment (200 mg/kg bw) during 14 days both in healthy and streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. As a positive control, we applied glibenclamide. The activity of key enzymes involved in carbohydrate methabolisam in the liver were assessed, along with substrate concentration, as well as AMPK mRNA levels, PKCε concentration, plasma insulin level and pancreatic PARP activity.

RESULTS

Compared to diabetic rats, treatment of diabetic rats with HH extract resulted with decreased activity of hepatic enzymes glucose-6-phospatase and fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase, increased liver glycogen and glucose-6-phosphate content, which resulted with reduced blood glucose concentration up to normoglycaemia. Non-significant changes were observed in the activity of hexokinase, glycogen phosphorylase and glucose-6-phospahte dehydrogenase. HH-treatment also caused an increase in plasma insulin concentration and increase in pancreatic PARP activity. Finally, HH treatment of diabetic rats showed significant increase in AMPK expression and decrease of PKCε concentration.

CONCLUSION

We present in vivo evidence that HH- extract exert insulinotropic effects and regulate endogenous glucose production mostly by suppressing liver gluconeogenesis. The HH-treatment did not effected glycogenolysys and glycolysis. Finally, we confirm the antihyperglycemic and antidiabetic effect of HH-extract and the mechanism of this effect involves amelioration of AMPK and PKCε changes in the liver.

Rapid screening of α-glucosidase inhibitors in Hypericum perforatum L. using bio-affinity chromatography coupled with UPLC/MS

α-glucosidase inhibitors (AGIs) are widely used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, but their side effects have made it to develop novel and alternative AGIs immediately. In this study, the extract of Hypericum perforatum L. (HPE) has been confirmed to have α-glucosidase inhibitory activity in vitro and in vivo. Seven active compounds, rutin, hyperoside, isoquercitrin, avicularin, quercitrin, quercetin, and biapigenin, were screened based on a bio-affinity chromatography column with α-glucosidase enzyme-conjugated solid phase and UPLC/MS, which exhibited excellent α-glycosidase inhibitory effects by the determined IC₅₀ values. The mechanism of α-glycosidase inhibitory activity of biapigenin was studied for the first time. The results showed that biapigenin was a high-potential, reversible, and mixed enzyme inhibitor. Analysis by molecular docking further revealed that hydrophobic interactions were generated by interactions between biapigenin and amino acid residues LYS156, PHE303, PHE314, and LEU313. In addition, hydrogen bonding occurred between biapigenin and α-glucosidase amino acid residues ASP307, SER241, and LYS156. This research identified that biapigenin could be a novel AGI and further applied to the development of potential anti-diabetic drugs. Furthermore, our studies established a rapid in vitro screening method for AGIs from plants.

Bioactive Constituents and Toxicological Evaluation of Selected Antidiabetic Medicinal Plants of Saudi Arabia

The purpose of this review is to summarize the available antidiabetic medicinal plants in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia with its phytoconstituents and toxicological findings supporting by the latest literature. Required data about medicinal plants having antidiabetic activities and growing in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia were searched/collected from the online databases including Wiley, Google, PubMed, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and Scopus. Keywords used in search are in vivo antidiabetic activities, flora of Saudi Arabia, active ingredients, toxicological evaluations, and medicinal plants. A total of 50 plant species belonging to 27 families were found in the flora of Saudi Arabia. Dominant family was found Lamiaceae with 5 species (highest) followed by Moraceae with 4 species. β-Amyrin, β-sitosterol, stigmasterol, oleanolic acid, ursolic acid, rutin, chlorogenic acid, quercetin, and kaempferol are the very common bioactive constituents of these selected plant species. This paper has presented a list of antidiabetic plants used in the treatment of diabetes mellitus. Bioactive antidiabetic phytoconstituents which showed that these plants have hypoglycemic effects and highly recommended for further pharmacological purposes and to isolate/identify antidiabetes mellitus (anti-DM) active agents also need to investigate the side effects of active ingredients.

Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine Among Patients With Epilepsy and Diabetes Mellitus, Focusing on the Outcome of Treatment

Introduction: Millions all over the world live with epilepsy, and they may require long-term drug treatment. The use and interest in complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) have grown over the previous years. Coadministration of herbal products with medicines may result in adverse drug reactions (ADRs) and/or unfavorable interactions. The aims of this study were to determine the prevalence of CAM use among patients with epilepsy, to compare the results to those of the patients with diabetes mellitus (DM), to reveal factors that may drive the use of CAM, and to measure outcomes and adherence. It was also our intent to have state-of-the-art information on CAM use in our region among patients with the two diseases above.

Materials and Methods: We conducted a non-interventional study using a self-developed questionnaire. It was distributed among adult patients with either epilepsy or DM who also suffered from cardiovascular consequences. A database was compiled from the anonymous questionnaires filled in voluntarily by the patients. Basic statistics were used to analyze this database.

Results: A total of 227 questionnaires were filled in by 127 patients (55.9%) with epilepsy and 100 patients (44.1%) with DM. Mean age was 54.54 ± 17.33 years. Of the patients, 50.2% were male. Average body weight was 80.3 ± 17.3 kg. Of the patients, 22 (9.7%) used CAM because they believed in CAM. Two of them reported ADRs. Among the patients with epilepsy, the ratio was only 7.9% compared to 12% among those with DM. While the number of CAM users was higher among younger patients with epilepsy, it was the elderly patients with DM who tended to use CAM.

Conclusion: Attention should be paid to reliance on CAM during the follow-up. Our finding that health-conscious patients tend to use CAM more often (than the general population) may indicate it is necessary to discuss CAM usage sincerely. CAMs modulating cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes were the most common, leading to interactions with medication used and resulting in ADRs. This shows the importance of educating patients and treating team including clinical pharmacists in this field.

Hypericum Perforatum L. Hairy Root Extracts – Regulation of Glycemic, Metabolic, Serum Enzyme and Lipid Profile in Stz - Induced Diabetic Rats

Apart from currently available therapeutics for the treatment of diabetes mellitus, much attention has been paid to discover phytochemicals from natural resources, mainly due to their low side-effects. Hypericum perforatum hairy root (HR) transformed with Agrobacterium rhizogenes A4 represent prospective experimental system enriched in xanthones, known as potent antidiabetic agents. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate HR extracts for their potential antihyperglycemic activity in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats, also compared to the effects of wild-growing Hyperici herba (HH). We conducted an acute-toxicity study, multiple dose study, and 24h blood glucose measurements after a single dose administration of HH and HR (200 mg/kg) in diabetic rats. Furthermore, we examined the effects of 14-days administration of HH and HR extracts on blood glucose levels, metabolic parameters, enzyme, and lipid status in healthy and diabetic rats. Both extracts produced a fall of about 70% in blood glucose level after 24h of administration. Two-week treatment with HH and HR induced a significant decrease (70-72%) in blood glucose levels. Moreover, we found an improvement of the dysregulated metabolic parameters (body weight, food, and water consumption and urine output). Serum enzyme (AST, ALT, and γ-GT) and lipid profile parameters (CHOL, TAG, and HDL) were also improved by both extracts. These findings might provide a new insight for managing diabetic hyperglycemia and dysregulated serum enzyme and lipid profile, using extracts from transgenic roots cultures from H. perforatum.

New Polyprenylated Acylphloroglucinol Derivatives and Xanthones From Hypericum wilsonii

Four new polyprenylated acylphloroglucinol derivatives, hyperwilone A-D (1–4), and two new xanthones, wilsonxanthone A (5) and wilsonxanthone B (6), together with eight known compounds were isolated from the aerial parts of Hypericum wilsonii. Their structures were expounded by comprehensive analysis of the 1D and 2D NMR spectra and HRESIMS. The relative configurations and absolute configurations of 1-6 were determined by NMR calculations and comparing their experimental and computed ECD data. All compounds were evaluated for GLUT4 translocation effects in L6 myotubes. Compound 5 showed the strongest GLUT4 translocation effects with 2.57 folds at a concentration of 30 μg/ml.

Inhibitory Activity and Mechanism Investigation of Hypericin as a Novel α-Glucosidase Inhibitor

α-glucosidase is a major enzyme that is involved in starch digestion and type 2 diabetes mellitus. In this study, the inhibition of hypericin by α-glucosidase and its mechanism were firstly investigated using enzyme kinetics analysis, real-time interaction analysis between hypericin and α-glucosidase by surface plasmon resonance (SPR), and molecular docking simulation. The results showed that hypericin was a high potential reversible and competitive α-glucosidase inhibitor, with a maximum half inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) of 4.66 ± 0.27 mg/L. The binding affinities of hypericin with α-glucosidase were assessed using an SPR detection system, which indicated that these were strong and fast, with balances dissociation constant (KD) values of 6.56 × 10⁻⁵ M and exhibited a slow dissociation reaction. Analysis by molecular docking further revealed that hydrophobic forces are generated by interactions between hypericin and amino acid residues Arg-315 and Tyr-316. In addition, hydrogen bonding occurred between hypericin and α-glucosidase amino acid residues Lys-156, Ser-157, Gly-160, Ser-240, His-280, Asp-242, and Asp-307. The structure and micro-environment of α-glucosidase enzymes were altered, which led to a decrease in α-glucosidase activity. This research identified that hypericin, an anthracene ketone compound, could be a novel α-glucosidase inhibitor and further applied to the development of potential anti-diabetic drugs.

Medical Species Used in Russia for the Management of Diabetes and Related Disorders

Background: Polyherbal mixtures called "medical species" are part of traditional and officinal medicine in Russia. This review aimed to analyze medical species used in Russia for the treatment of diabetes and related disorders. The information relevant to medical species, diabetes, and obesity was collected from local libraries, the online service E-library.ru, and Google Scholar. The prediction of the antidiabetic activity for the principal compounds identified in plants was performed using the free web resource PASS Online. Results: We collected and analyzed information about the compositions, specificities of use, and posology of 227 medical species. The medical species represent mixtures of 2-15 plants, while the most frequently mentioned in the literature are species comprising 3-6 plants. The top 10 plants among the 158 mentioned in the literature include Vaccinium myrtillus L., Phaseolus vulgaris L., Taraxacum campylodes G.E. Haglund., Urtica dioica L., Rosa spp., Hypericum spp., Galega officinalis L., Mentha × piperita L., Arctium spp, and Fragaria vesca L. The leading binary combination found in medical species comprises the leaves of V. myrtillus and pericarp of P. vulgaris; leaves of V. myrtillus and leaves of U. dioica; and leaves of V. myrtillus and aerial parts of G. officinalis. In triple combinations, in addition to the above-mentioned components, the roots of T. campylodes are often used. These combinations can be regarded as basic mixtures. Other plants are added to improve the efficacy, treat associated disorders, improve gastrointestinal function, prevent allergic reactions, etc. Meanwhile, an increase in plants in the mixture necessitates advanced techniques for quality control. A feature of medical species in Russia is the addition of fresh juices, birch sap, seaweeds, and adaptogenic plants. Modern studies of the mechanisms of action and predicted activities of the principal compounds from medicinal plants support the rationality of polyherbal mixtures. Nevertheless, the mechanisms are not well studied and reported due to the limited number of compounds. Further investigations with calculations of synergistic or additive indices are important for strengthening the scientific fundamentals for the wider use of medical species in the therapy of diabetes. Two medical species, "Arfazetin" (7 medicinal plants) and "Myrphasinum" (12 medicinal plants), are approved for use in officinal medicine. The efficacy of these species was confirmed in several in vivo experiments and clinical trials. According to modern regulatory rules, additional experiments and clinical trials are required for more detailed investigations of the mechanisms of action and confirmation of efficacy. Conclusion: We believe that the scientifically based utilization of rich plant resources and knowledge of Russian herbal medicine can significantly contribute to the local economy as well as to the sectors seeking natural healing products.

Protective Role of St. John's Wort and Its Components Hyperforin and Hypericin against Diabetes through Inhibition of Inflammatory Signaling: Evidence from In Vitro and In Vivo Studies

Diabetes mellitus is a very common chronic disease with progressively increasing prevalence. Besides the well-known autoimmune and inflammatory pathogenesis of type 1 diabetes, in many people, metabolic changes and inappropriate lifestyle favor a subtle chronic inflammatory state that contributes to development of insulin resistance and progressive loss of β-cell function and mass, eventually resulting in metabolic syndrome or overt type 2 diabetes. In this paper, we review the anti-inflammatory effects of the extract of Hypericum perforatum L. (St. John's wort, SJW) and its main active ingredients firstly in representative pathological situations on inflammatory basis and then in pancreatic β cells and in obese or diabetic animal models. The simultaneous and long-lasting inhibition of signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)-1, nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs)/c-jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) signaling pathways involved in pro-inflammatory cytokine-induced β-cell dysfunction/death and insulin resistance make SJW particularly suitable for both preventive and therapeutic use in metabolic diseases. Hindrance of inflammatory cytokine signaling is likely dependent on the hyperforin content of SJW extract, but recent data reveal that hypericin can also exert relevant protective effects, mediated by activation of the cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)/protein kinase cAMP-dependent (PKA)/adenosine monophosphate activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway, against high-fat-diet-induced metabolic abnormalities. Actually, the mechanisms of action of the two main components of SJW appear complementary, strengthening the efficacy of the plant extract. Careful quantitative analysis of SJW components and suitable dosage, with monitoring of possible drug-drug interaction in a context of remarkable tolerability, are easily achievable pre-requisites for forthcoming clinical applications.

Hypericum perforatum L.: a medicinal plant with potential as a curative agent against obesity-associated complications

Obesity is a low-grade inflammatory disease that is getting increasingly common among adults and children and causes different complications. Insulin resistance, Type II diabetes, atherosclerosis, metabolic syndrome and hypertension are among the major health problems, that are associated with obesity. Some medications are used to treat obese individuals and metabolic surgery is recommended, if appropriate, for individuals with a BMI ≥ 40. Due to the fact that medications and metabolic surgery are not tolerated by all, researchers focus on alternative therapies. Medicinal plants comprise the most important group of these alternative treatments. Hypericum perforatum L. is the medicinal plant, which we focused on in this study. Hypericum perforatum L. has been recognized as a medicinally valuable plant for over 2000 years. It has been used for generations to treat anxiety, depression, insomnia, gastritis, hemorrhoids, wounds, and burns. Recent studies have indeed shown promising effects for the treatment of obesity. In this study, 3T3-L1 adipocytes were used to mimic the adipocyte differentiation associated with obesity in cellular terms. Lipoprotein lipase (Lpl), Diacylglycerol-O-acyltransferase 1 (Dgat1), Fatty acid synthase (Fasn) markers were used to study the lipid accumulation, and Collagen V (ColV) was used to study cell elasticity to investigate the relationship of the effects of the administration of Hypericum perforatum L. with obesity.

Anti-diabetic and lipid-lowering effects of drimane sesquiterpenoids isolated from Zygogynum pancheri

Recently, it has been shown that drimane-type sesquiterpenoids isolated from Zygogynum pancheri, a species native to New Caledonia, possessed significant α-amylase inhibitory activities. To further explore their antidiabetic potential, we investigated the effect of 1β-O-(E-cinnamoyl)-6α-hydroxy-9epi-polygodial (D) and 1β-E-O-p-methoxycinnamoyl-bemadienolide (L), two of the most active compounds of the series, on diabetic model rats. Compounds D and L (2 mg kg/day) were daily and orally administrated for 30 days to streptozotocin (STZ) (150 mg/kg) induced male diabetic Wistar rats. Animals were allocated into five groups of six rats. Comparatively to diabetic rats, treatments with D and L compounds were able to significantly (P < 0.05) decrease Fasting Blood Glucose (FBG) (70.15%, 71.02%), serum total cholesterol (46.27% and 39.38%), triglycerides (56.60% and 58.15%), creatinine (37.31% and 36.49%) and uric acid levels (67.76% and 69.68%), respectively. Compounds D and L also restored the altered plasma enzyme (aspartate aminotransferase, AST (47.83% and 43.20%), alanine aminotransferase, ALT (49.76% and 48.35%, alkaline phosphatase, ALP (72.78% and 73.21%)) and lactate dehydrogenase, LDH (47.95% and 53.93%) levels to near normal, respectively. Administration of Glymepiride, significantly (p < 0.05) reduced FBG (73.94%) in STZ induced diabetic rats. Additionally, the compounds D and L exhibited inhibitory effects in vivo on lipase activity of diabetic rats (54.83% and 52.25%), respectively. The outcomes of this study suggested that these two drimanes could be considered as efficient hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic and antiobesity agents for diabetes management and its complications.

Antidiabetic and antioxidant potentials of Vitellaria paradoxa barks in alloxan-induced diabetic rats

Background

Vitellaria paradoxa (V. paradoxa) is a plant used in traditional medicine in the treatment of many diseases including diabetes mellitus. Although the different parts of this plant are used empirically as antidiabetic drug, no scientific work to our knowledge has yet been undertaken to evaluate its effects on blood glucose, and lipid and antioxidant parameters of diabetic animals. The objective of this study is therefore to evaluate the hypoglycaemic, hypolipidemic and antioxidant activities of the aqueous extract of V. paradoxa barks in diabetic rats.

Methods

Diabetes was induced by intraperitoneal injection of alloxan (120 mg/kg bw). Thirty male albino rats were divided into groups and orally treated for 14 days with distilled water, glibenclamide (2.5 mg/kg bw) and aqueous extract of V. paradoxa (125, 250 and 500 mg/kg bw). Glycaemia, insulin level, relative body weight, hepatic glycogen level, some liver enzymes, and lipid and antioxidant parameters were evaluated.

Results

The results showed that the extract caused a significant increase in relative body weight, insulin level, HDL-cholesterol, hepatic glycogen rate, and fructose-1,6-biphosphate and glucokinase activities. A significant decrease in glycaemia, glucose-6-phosphatase activity, total cholesterol, triglycerides and LDL-cholesterol were also observed after the administration of V. paradoxa. Glutathione level and the activities of catalase and superoxide dismutase increased significantly while the nitric oxide and malondialdehyde levels decreased significantly in the liver of animals treated with the extract of V. paradoxa.

Conclusion

These results justify the hypoglycaemic, hypolipidemic and antioxidant effects of aqueous extract of V. paradoxa barks, which can reduce the complications associated with diabetes.

Management of diabetes using herbal extracts: review

Diabetes is a group of metabolic diseases characterised by hyperglycemia resulting from defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both. The chronic hyperglycemia of diabetes is associated with long-term damage and dysfunction of many organs. Diabetes caused 1.5 million deaths in 2012, with hyperglycemia causing an additional 2.2 million deaths, as it is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular and other diseases. Various types of plants have been used for several centuries worldwide not only as dietary supplements but also as traditional treatment regimens for many diseases. So far, a large number of traditionally claimed plant medicine has been tested for diabetes and some of them showed a promising therapeutic potential. The main focus of this review is to describe what we know to date of herbal extracts, along with their glucose-lowering mechanisms, which are either through insulin-mimicking activity, enhanced β-cells regeneration, or glucose uptake.

The effect of Hypericum Perforatum on wound healing of oral mucosa in diabetic rats

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the histopathological and biochemical effects of the topical application of Hypericum perforatum on the healing of surgical wounds created in the oral mucosa of rats with experimentally induced diabetes mellitus.

Materials and methods

The study was carried out on 48 adult male Wistar albino rats. The animals were divided into two main groups as control and study groups. Two main groups were divided into three subgroups according to the sacrification days. All rats were given streptozotocin 60 mg/kg, after 72 hours, and those having blood glucose levels above 200 mg/dL were included in the study. Mucosal defects were created in the palatal area of the rats. H. perforatum oil was applied topically twice a day to the wounds of the rats in the study group. Animal were sacrificed on the 3^rd, 7^th and 10^th days and samples taken from the palatal wounds were examined histologically and biochemically.

Results

On the 7^th day, ulceration, necrosis, epithelialization, polymorphonuclear leucocytes and hydroxyproline variables showed statistically significant differences (p<0.05). Ulceration, necrosis and polymorphonuclear leukocytes values were higher in the control group, whereas epithelialization and hydroxyproline values were found to be higher in the H. perforatum group. Among 10^th-day groups, there was only a statistically significant difference between the values of hydroxyproline, whereas H. perforatum-treated group showed high hydroxyproline levels (p<0.05).

Conclusion

Topically applied H. perforatum did not create any difference on the 3^rd day, but it has positively affected the wound healing on the 7^th and 10^th days in diabetic rats.

Phytochemical characterization,in vitroandin silicoapproaches for threeHypericumspecies

Members of theHypericumgenus are spread throughout the world and have a long history of use in traditional systems of medicines.

Traditional Persian Medicine and management of metabolic dysfunction in polycystic ovary syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age. Its cause is unknown and it remains the most enigmatic of reproductive disorders. The extant written documents of Traditional Persian Medicine (TPM) - with holistic approaches towards human health - contain remedies used for centuries. Before further experimental research on any of these treatments, it is appropriate to study current related scientific evidence on their possible pharmacological actions. This work aims to study PCOS and its treatments in TPM. To collect data from medieval medicinal texts, six of the most famous manuscripts of Persian medicine were studied. Medicinal treatments for a problem similar to PCOS were searched for in these books. The plants were listed and their authentications were confirmed in accordance with botanical books. PubMed and ScienceDirect databases were searched for related mechanisms of action or pharmacological activities of the medicinal plants reported. From numerous articles, the current work tried to cite the latest publications with regard to each reported plant and PCOS-related mechanisms of action. We studied herbal treatments recommended by ancient Persians to treat a condition called Habs-e-tams, which had the same symptoms of PCOS. It could be concluded that ancient physicians not only wanted to treat the irregular menstrual cycle-which is the most obvious symptom of PCOS-but also their treatment options were aimed at ameliorating the related underlying metabolic dysfunctions. The recommended herbs, which have the most scientific proof for their related actions, can be studied further in experimental analyses.

Hepatoprotective and antidiabetic effects of Pistacia lentiscus leaf and fruit extracts

Pistacia lentiscus (Anacardiaceae) is commonly used in folk medicine to treat various diseases. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the hepatoprotective and antioxidant activities of extracts of P. lentiscus leaves (PL) and fruits (PF) against experimentally induced liver damage. Furthermore, characterization of extracts was attempted by a spectroscopic methodology (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy) and high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection analysis. A hepatoprotective potential against paracetamol [165 mg/kg body weight (b.w.)] toxicity was noticed in mice pretreated with the same dose of PL or PF extract (125 mg/kg b.w.) or a combination of both (PL/PF 63/63 mg/kg b.w.), as revealed by an analysis of biochemical parameters (alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase activities and total bilirubin). These results were confirmed by histological examination of the liver, which revealed significant protection against paracetamol-induced hepatic necrosis. Furthermore, PF extract exhibited a promising antidiabetic activity in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats, similar to the reference drug glibenclamide (0.91 g/L), a result confirmed by in vitro inhibition of α-amylase. We demonstrated that the leaf crude extract showed the best effect in all tested methods, compared to its fruit counterpart, probably due to the presence of higher amounts of phenolic compounds, as determined by phytochemical and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analyses. Moreover, high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection led to the identification of six compounds for each part of the plant. Gallic acid, a characteristic compound of Pistacia species, was most abundant in leaves and fruits, while luteolin was detected for the first time in fruits. Obtained activities of P. lentiscus extracts may well be due, at least in part, to the presence of the above compounds.

Antioxidant, antidiabetic and hypolipidemic effects of Tulbaghia violacea Harv. (wild garlic) rhizome methanolic extract in a diabetic rat model

Background

The prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM) continues to rise alarmingly despite years of intensive research. The need to explore alternative remedies such as traditional phytotherapy has therefore become increasingly important in the management and treatment of DM.

Methods

Diabetes was induced by a single intraperitoneal (i.p) injection of streptozotocin (40 mg/kg.b.w) in male Wistar rats. The rats were divided into 5 groups as follows: non-diabetic control fed distilled water, diabetic control fed distilled water, diabetic group treated with Tulbaghia violacea (TVL) (60 mg/kg.b.w), diabetic group treated with TVL (120 mg/kg.b.w), and diabetic group treated with glibenclamide (10 mg/kg.b.w). Food and water intake, as well as urine output were measured daily, whilst body weight and fasting blood glucose were monitored weekly. On day 42, an oral glucose tolerance test was performed on all groups. After 7 weeks, the animals were sacrificed by halothane overdose, blood was removed by cardiac puncture and tissues were harvested. Assays were performed for the determination of plasma insulin, liver glycogen content, lipid peroxidation, antioxidant enzyme levels, plasma nitric oxide levels and serum lipid and liver enzyme levels.

Results and Discussion

TVL treatment improved body weights, significantly reduced fasting blood glucose levels, improved glucose tolerance and significantly increased plasma insulin and liver glycogen content. TVL treatment also reduced liver thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) levels, increased liver superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and increased plasma nitric oxide (NO) levels. Furthermore, TVL administration reduced serum triglycerides, VLDL, total-cholesterol levels and increased HDL-cholesterol levels. TVL also reduced serum levels of liver enzymes, alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST).

Conclusion

Data obtained in this study demonstrated the hypoglycemic, antioxidant, hepatoprotective and hypolipidemic effects of TVL in STZ-induced diabetic rats.

Diabetes mellitus: an overview on its pharmacological aspects and reported medicinal plants having antidiabetic activity

Diabetes mellitus is not a single disease but is a group of metabolic disorders affecting a huge number of population in the world. It is mainly characterized by chronic hyperglycemia, resulting from defects in insulin secretion or insulin action. It is predicated that the number of diabetes person in the world could reach upto 366 million by the year 2030. Even though the cases of diabetes are increasing day by day, except insulin and oral hypoglycemic drugs no other way of treatment has been successfully developed so far. Thus, the objective of the present review is to provide an insight over the pathophysiological and etiological aspects of diabetes mellitus along with the remedies available for this metabolic disorder. The review also contains brief idea about diabetes mellitus and the experimental screening model with their relevant mechanism and significance mainly used nowadays. Alloxan and streptozotocin are mainly used for evaluating the antidiabetic activity of a particular drug. This review contain list of medicinal plants which have been tested for their antidiabetic activity in the alloxan induced diabetic rat model. From the available data in the literature, it was found that plant having antidiabetic activity is mainly due to the presence of the secondary metabolite. Thus, the information provided in this review will help the researchers for the development of an alternative methods rather than insulin and oral hypoglycemic agents for the treatment of diabetes mellitus, which will minimize the complication associated with the diabetes and related disorder.

Improvement in The Function of Isolated Rat Pancreatic Islets through Reduction of Oxidative Stress Using Traditional Iranian Medicine

OBJECTIVE

Pancreatic islets have fewer antioxidant enzymes than other tissues and thus are vulnerable to oxidative stress. In the present study, the effects of nine specifically selected Iranian medical plants on the mitochondria function and survival of isolated rat islets were examined.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this experimental study, following laparotomy, pancreases of rats were removed and the islets isolated and incubated in vitro for 24 hours. Logarithmic doses of plant materials were added to the islets and incubated for an additional 24 hours after which the viability of the cells and production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) were measured. Levels of insulin production in relation to static and stimulated glucose concen- trations were also determined.

RESULTS

The tested compounds markedly increased survival of the islet cells, their mi- tochondrial activity, and insulin levels at the same time as reducing production of ROS. Greatest effects were observed in the following order: Peganum harmala, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Satureja hortensis, Rosmarinus officinalis, Teucrium scordium, Aloe vera, Zingiber officinale, Silybum marianum, and Hypericum perforatum at doses of 10, 10(3), 10(4), 10, 10(2), 10(2), 10(-1), 10 and 10(3)μgmL(-1), respectively.

CONCLUSION

Based on these results, we suggest that pretreatment with these select- ed Iranian medical plants can improve the outcomes of pancreas transplants and grafts through the control of oxidative stress damage.

A Drug-Target Network-Based Approach to Evaluate the Efficacy of Medicinal Plants for Type II Diabetes Mellitus

The use of plants as natural medicines in the treatment of type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has long been of special interest. In this work, we developed a docking score-weighted prediction model based on drug-target network to evaluate the efficacy of medicinal plants for T2DM. High throughput virtual screening from chemical library of natural products was adopted to calculate the binding affinity between natural products contained in medicinal plants and 33 T2DM-related proteins. The drug-target network was constructed according to the strength of the binding affinity if the molecular docking score satisfied the threshold. By linking the medicinal plant with T2DM through drug-target network, the model can predict the efficacy of natural products and medicinal plant for T2DM. Eighteen thousand nine hundred ninety-nine natural products and 1669 medicinal plants were predicted to be potentially bioactive.

Protective effect of gallic acid on alloxan-induced oxidative stress and osmotic fragility in rats

In the present study, we investigated the antioxidant effect of gallic acid (GA) on membrane lipid peroxidation and osmotic fragility in alloxan-induced diabetic Wistar rats. GA was administered orally at doses of 5, 10, and 20 mg/kg body weight for 45 days, after which liver and kidney tissues were analyzed for the degree of lipid peroxidation, reduced glutathione, and the activities of antioxidants such as catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase. Administration of GA to alloxan-induced diabetic rats reduced the blood glucose level with an increase in the level of insulin. Liver and kidney tissues from diabetic animals exhibited disturbances in antioxidant defense compared with normal rats. GA at a dose of 20 mg/kg b.w. showed a significant effect than that of the other doses. In addition, the results revealed that GA protected the integrity of erythrocyte membrane in diabetic rats as demonstrated by lower percentage of hemolysis and resistance to hydrogen peroxide-induced peroxidation. The anti-hyperglycemic activity of GA in alloxan-induced diabetic rats was also comparable with glibenclamide, a reference drug. These results suggest that GA could provide a beneficial effect on diabetes by decreasing oxidative stress-related diabetic complications.

The hepatoprotective effects of Hypericum perforatum L. on hepatic ischemia/reperfusion injury in rats

Little is known about the effective role of Hypericum perforatum on hepatic ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury in rats. Hence, albino rats were subjected to 45 min of hepatic ischemia followed by 60 min of reperfusion period. Hypericum perforatum extract (HPE) at the dose of 50 mg/kg body weight (HPE50) was intraperitonally injected as a single dose, 15 min prior to ischemia. Rats were sacrificed at the end of reperfusion period and then, biochemical investigations were made in serum and liver tissue. Liver tissue homogenates were used for the measurement of malondialdehyde (MDA), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) levels. At the same time alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were assayed in serum samples and compared statistically. While the ALT, AST, LDH activities and MDA levels were significantly increased, CAT and GPx activities significantly decreased in only I/R-induced control rats compared to normal control rats (p < 0.05). Treatment with HPE50 significantly decreased the ALT, AST, LDH activities and MDA levels, and markedly increased activities of CAT and GPx in tissue homogenates compared to I/R-induced rats without treatment-control group (p < 0.05). In oxidative stress generated by hepatic ischemia-reperfusion, H. perforatum L. as an antioxidant agent contributes an alteration in the delicate balance between the scavenging capacity of antioxidant defence systems and free radicals in favour of the antioxidant defence systems in the body.

Antihyperglycemic and Antihyperlipidemic Effects of Fermented Rhynchosia nulubilis in Alloxan-induced Diabetic Rats

Alloxan administration in rats is used as a model for non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM). NIDDM is a multifactorial disease, characterized by hyperglycemia and lipoprotein abnormalities. In this study, we evaluated the antihyperglycemic and antihyperlipidemic effects of fermented Rhynchosia nulubilis (FRN) through the regulation of glucose uptake in alloxan-induced rats. Fermented R. nulubilis was administered orally for 28 d at 500 mg/kg of body weight. Body weight and food intake were monitored every day. Biochemical parameters were quantified after 4 week. In the diabetic + FRN group, body weight increased significantly and blood glucose concentrations decreased when compared to those of the diabetic group. After 2 hr of administration, the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) indicated a significant reduction in the diabetic + FRN group compared to diabetic group. The diabetic + FRN group experienced a significant reduction in total cholesterol, triglycerides, low density lipoprotein, coronary risk factors, and malondialdehyde concentrations, with significantly increased high density lipoprotein compared to those of diabetic group. These results demonstrate that fermented R. nulubilis possesses potent antihyperglycemic and antihyperlipidemic activity in alloxan-induced diabetic rats.

Antihyperglycemic activity, antihyperlipedemic activity, haematological effects and histopathological analysis of Sapindus mukorossi Gaerten fruits in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the antihyperglycemic and antihyperlipidemic properties of hydroalcoholic extract of fruits of Sapindus mukorossi Gaerten and its beneficial effect on haematological parameters with histopathological analysis in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats.

METHODS

Sapindus mukorossi fruits extract (250 and 500 mg/kg body weight) and standard drug glybenclamide (0.5 mg/kg body weight) were administered to diabetic rats. Effect of extract on hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia and hematological parameters was studied in diabetic rats. Histopathological changes in diabetic rat pancreas were also observed after extract and glybenclamide treatment.

RESULTS

Daily oral administration of Sapindus mukorossi fruits extract (250 and 500 mg/kg body weight) and glybenclamide for 20 days showed beneficial effects on blood glucose level (P<0.01) and lipid level. The extract has a favorable effect on the histopathological changes of the pancreas in streptozotocin induced diabetes.

CONCLUSION

These findings reveal that the hydroalcoholic extract of Sapindus mukorossi fruits extract possesses antihyperglycemic and antihyperlipidemic properties. In addition, the extract can prevent various complications of diabetes and improve some haematological parameters.

Antihyperglycemic effects of the methanol leaf extract of Diaphananthe bidens in normoglycemic and streptozotocin-induced hyperglycemic rats

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the methanol leaf extract of Diaphanathe bidens (D. bidens) (AFZEL. EX SW) SCHLTR for antihyperglycemic activity in order to confirm it antidiabetic potential.

METHODS

D. bidens was extracted by cold maceration for 48 h and concentrated in vacuo to yield D. bidens extract (DBE). Hyperglycemia was induced by intraperitoneal administration of streptozotocin (75 mg/kg). Oral glucose tolerance test was done with 2 g/kg glucose load in normal rats. DBE (150, 300 and 600 mg/kg) was administered orally, while tolbutamide (100 mg/kg, p.o.) was used as the standard reference drug. Blood glucose levels determined using ACCUCHEK glucose auto-analyzer. The acute toxicity and phytochemical studies were also carried out.

RESULTS

DBE (600 mg/kg) and tolbutamide (100 mg/kg) significantly (P<0.05, 0.005) reduced blood glucose levels of rats between 120 and 480 min post administration in normal rats. In the streptozotocin- induced hyperglycemic rats, DBE (150, 300, 600 mg/kg) caused significant (P<0.001) dose- and time- dependent reduction in the blood glucose levels by 1.7%, 22.8% and 43.4%, respectively at 480 min compared to the negative control group. DBE (600 mg/kg) reduced the blood glucose level of rats by 1.2% in the oral glucose tolerance test when compared with the normal saline treated group. The acute toxicity test showed that DBE was safe at the doses used and the phytochemical screening revealed the presence of saponins, steroids, tannins and terpernoids.

CONCLUSIONS

D. bidens extract possess antihyperglycemic activity which may be mediated through pancreatic and extra-pancreatic pathways, thereby justifying it folkloric use.

Antidiabetic activity of aqueous root extract of Merremia tridentata (L.) Hall. f. in streptozotocin-induced-diabetic rats

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the antidiabetic effect of aqueous extract of Merremia tridentata (M. tridentata) root (MTRAE) in normal, glucose-loaded hyperglycemic and streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats.

METHODS

Oral administration of MTRAE at the doses of 50, 100 and 150 mg/kg was studied in normal, glucose-loaded and STZ-diabetic rats. The three doses caused significant reduction in blood glucose levels in all the models.

RESULTS

The effect was more pronounced in 100 and 150 mg/kg than 50 mg/kg. MTRAE also showed significant increase in serum insulin, body weight and glycogen content in liver and skeletal muscle of STZ-induced diabetic rats while there was significant reduction in the levels of serum triglyceride and total cholesterol. MTRAE also showed significant antilipidperoxidative effect in the pancreas of STZ-induced diabetic rats. The antidiabetic effect of M. tridentata was compared with glibenclamide, a well known hypoglycemic drug.

CONCLUSIONS

The results indicate that aqueous extract of M. tridentata root possesses significant antidiabetic activity.

Antidiabetic activity of alcoholic leaves extract of Alangium lamarckii Thwaites on streptozotocin-nicotinamide induced type 2 diabetic rats

OBJECTIVE

To investigate antidiabetic potential of alcoholic leaves extract of Alangium lamarckii (A. lamarckii) on streptozotocin-nicotinamide induced type 2 diabetic rats.

METHODS

Oral glucose tolerance test was done by inducing hyperglycemic state via administration of glucose in water (2g/kg). Single dose of alcoholic leaves extract of A. lamarckii (250 and 500 mg/kg, p.o.) were administered to normoglycemic, hyperglycemic rats. Type 2 diabetes was induced by single intraperitoneal injection of nicotinamide (110 mg/kg) followed by streptozotocin (65mg/kg). The study also included estimations of blood plasma glucose, lipid profile, liver glycogen, body weight and antioxidant status in normal and diabetic rats.

RESULTS

Admistration of alcoholic extract of A. lamarckii at two dosage 250 and 500 mg/kg, p.o. did not showed any significant change in blood glucose level of normoglycemic rats (P>0.05), whereas, oral glucose tolerance test depicted reduction in blood glucose level (P<0.05). The streptozotocin-nicotinamide induced diabetic rats, significantly decreased the blood plasma glucose level (P<0.001) comparable to glibenclamide (10 mg/kg), restored the lipid profile and showed improvement in liver glycogen, body weight and antioxidant status in diabetic rats.

CONCLUSIONS

Present finding demonstrated the significant antidiabetic activity of alcoholic leaves extract of A. lamarckii.

Antidiabetic, antihyperlipidemic and antioxidant potential of methanol extract of Tectona grandis flowers in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats

OBJECTIVE

To investigate antidiabetic, antihyperlipidemic and antioxidant activity of methanol extract of Tectona grandis (T. grandis) flowers (METGF) in streptozotocin (STZ) induced diabetic rats to supports its traditional use.

METHODS

Acute toxicity study of METGF was carried out in rat to determine its dose for the antidiabetic study. Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was performed to evaluate METGF effect on elevated blood glucose level. Diabetes was induced in rats by administration of STZ (60 mg/kg, ip.) and it was confirmed 72 h after induction. METGF was orally given to the diabetic rats up to 28 days and blood glucose level were estimated each week. On 28 day of the experiment, diabetic rats were sacrificed after the blood collection for the biochemical parameters analysis and liver, kidney was collected to determine antioxidants levels.

RESULTS

In acute toxicity, METGF did not show toxicity and death up to a dose 2 000 mg/kg in rats. Administration of METGF 100 and 200 mg/kg significantly (P<0.001) reduced blood glucose levels in OGTT and STZ-induced diabetic rats. Both doses of METGF treatment significantly (P<0.001, P<0.01 and P<0.05) increased body weight, serum insulin, haemoglobin (Hb) and total protein levels in diabetic rats. Also, MEGTF treatment reduced elevated glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c) and other biochemical parameters levels significantly (P<0.001) in diabetic rats. Altered lipid profiles and antioxidants levels were reversed to near normal in diabetic rats treated with METGF.

CONCLUSIONS

These results concluded that METGF possesses antidiabetic, antihyperglycemic and antioxidant activity which supports its traditional use.

Antidiabetic activity of alcoholic stem extract of Gymnema montanum in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

In the present study, the effect of alcoholic stem extract of Gymnema montanum (GMSt) on blood glucose, plasma insulin, and carbohydrate metabolic enzymes were studied in experimental diabetes. Diabetes mellitus was induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of STZ (60 mg/kg bw). Five days after STZ induction, diabetic rats received GMSt orally at the doses of 25, 50, 100 and 200mg/kg daily for 3 weeks. Graded doses of stem extract showed a significant reduction in blood glucose levels and improvement in plasma insulin levels. The effect was more pronounced in 100 and 200mg/kg than 50mg/kg. GMSt showed significant increase in hexokinase, Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase and glycogen content in liver of diabetic rats while there was significant reduction in the levels of glucose-6-phosphatase and fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase. The present study clearly indicated significant antidiabetic effect with the stem extract of G. montanum and lends support for its traditional usage.

Antidiabetic, hypolipidemic and histopathological analysis of Dillenia indica (L.) leaves extract on alloxan induced diabetic rats

OBJECTIVE

To investigate antidiabetic, hypolipidemic histopathological analysis of Dillenia indica (D. indica) methanolic leaves (DIME) extract in alloxan induced diabetic rat by administering oral doses (250 and 500 mg/kg body weight).

METHODS

Blood glucose levels were measured using blood glucose test strips with elegance glucometer on weekly intervals till the end of study (i.e. 3 weeks). Other parameters e.g. liver profile, renal profile and total lipid levels were determined in normal and alloxan induced diabetic rats after oral administration of the extract for 21 days. Histopathological changes in diabetic rat organs (pancreas, liver and kidney) were also observed after extract treatment.

RESULTS

Daily oral administration DIME (250 and 500 mg/kg body weight) and glibenclamide (10 mg/kg) showed beneficial effects on blood glucose level (P < 0.001) as well as improving kidney, liver functions and hyperlipidaemia due to diabetes. The extract treatment also showed to enhanced serum insulin level and body weight of diabetic rats as compared to diabetic control group. Furthermore, the extract has a favorable effect on the histopathological changes of the pancreas, liver and kidney in alloxan induced diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

D. indica possess antidiabetic property as well improve body weight, liver profile, renal profile and total lipid levels. DIME has also favorable effect to inhibit the histopathological changes of the pancreas and kidney in alloxan induced diabetes.