Inhibitory potential of omega-3 fatty and fenugreek essential oil on key enzymes of carbohydrate-digestion and hypertension in diabetes rats

Fructooligosaccharides from Cynoglossum tubiflorus: Effect of the molecular size on their antidiabetic activity in high-fat diet and alloxan induced diabetic rats

The use of acetylation followed by silica gel column purification allowed the isolation of eight fructooligosaccharides (FOS) from the ethanol extract of Cynoglossum tubiflorus roots. Each FOS was identified by analyzing its FT-IR, HRMS/MS and NMR data, including 1H, 13C and 2D NMR HH COSY, HMBC and NOESY. In diabetic rats treated with a series of FOS from Glc-(Fru)3 to Glc-(Fru)7, a significant inhibition of intestinal α-amylase was observed. This activity increases proportionally with the FOS molecular size. It was found that they delay the absorption of total cholesterol (TC), ldl-cholesterol (LDL-C) and increase HDL-cholesterol (HDL-C) in a molecular size-dependent manner. This inhibitory effect on the activity of the digestive enzyme causes a significant (p < 0.05) reduction in the level of glucose in the blood as an anti-diabetic action. The ethanolic extract (E.E) exerts a significant effect against α-amylase as well as antihyperglycemic and antihyperlipidemic actions, while its acetylation suppresses these effects. Therefore, this study demonstrates for the first time that pure FOS act as an efficient agent in preventing hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia and that this action evolves in the same manner with their molecular size.

Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of new 1,ω-Bis-(5-alkyl-3-tosyl-1,3,4,2-triazaphospholino)alkanes as in vitro α-amylase and lipase inhibitors

A series of new 1,ω-bis-(5-alkyl-3-tosyl-1,3,4,2-triazaphospholino)alkanes 2 and 3 were obtained in excellent yields by the condensation of 1,ω-bis-(1-tosylamidrazone)alkanes 1 with two equivalent molars of Lawesson's Reagent (LR) and trisdimethylaminophosphine, respectively. All synthesized compounds were characterized by various spectroscopic techniques including IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and 31P NMR and elemental analysis. The newly synthesized compounds were evaluated against key enzymes related to diabetes and obesity such as α-amylase and lipase. This study showed that the compounds 3a and 2b are an excellent inhibitor of α-amylase (with IC50 = 18.8 mM) and lipase (with IC50 = 19 mM) respectively, as compared with standard, orlistat (IC50 = 22 mM). Among this series, compounds 3a and 2b with the CH3 or C2H5 group at position 6 were identified as the most potent inhibitors against α-amylase, and lipase enzymes. The remaining compounds were found to be moderately active. Further, molecular docking simulation studies were done to identify the interactions and binding mode of synthesized analogs at binding site of α-amylase and lipase enzymes.

A Status Review on Health-Promoting Properties and Global Regulation of Essential Oils

Since ancient times, essential oils (EOs) have been known for their therapeutic potential against many health issues. Recent studies suggest that EOs may contribute to the regulation and modulation of various biomarkers and cellular pathways responsible for metabolic health as well as the development of many diseases, including cancer, obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and bacterial infections. During metabolic dysfunction and even infections, the immune system becomes compromised and releases pro-inflammatory cytokines that lead to serious health consequences. The bioactive compounds present in EOs (especially terpenoids and phenylpropanoids) with different chemical compositions from fruits, vegetables, and medicinal plants confer protection against these metabolic and infectious diseases through anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-cancer, and anti-microbial properties. In this review, we have highlighted some targeted physiological and cellular actions through which EOs may exhibit anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and anti-microbial properties. In addition, it has been observed that EOs from specific plant sources may play a significant role in the prevention of obesity, diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, microbial infections, and increasing breast milk production, along with improvements in heart, liver, and brain health. The current status of the bioactive activities of EOs and their therapeutic effects are covered in this review. However, with respect to the health benefits of EOs, it is very important to regulate the dose and usage of EOs to reduce their adverse health effects. Therefore, we specified that some countries have their own regulatory bodies while others follow WHO and FAO standards and legislation for the use of EOs.

The effects of fenugreek seed extract supplementation in patients with Alzheimer's disease: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

The aim of the current randomized control trial (RCT) study was to investigate the effects of fenugreek seed extract on memory, depression, quality of life, blood pressure, and serum malondialdehyde (MDA) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) levels in adult AD patients. This randomized clinical trial was conducted in geriatric homes in Iran. The study participants included 82 AD patients with mild-to-moderate memory deficit. Patients in the intervention group received 5 cc of fenugreek seed extract for 4 months and subjects in the control group received a placebo. Memory, depression, quality of life, and BP levels, as well as serum MDA and TAC, were assessed before and after the intervention. There was a significant increase in serum levels of TAC (p < 0.001) and a reduction in serum MDA status (p < 0.001) after 4 months of fenugreek seed extract supplementation. In addition, increasing levels of memory (p < 0.001) and quality of life (p < 0.001), as well as reduction of depression (p = 0.002), systolic BP (p < 0.001), and diastolic BP (p < 0.001) levels were detected in the intervention group compared with baseline. Fenugreek seed extract supplementation in AD patients shows promising positive effects on memory, quality of life, BP, and selective oxidative indices levels.

The effect of omega-3 supplements on the serum levels of ACE/ACE2 ratio as a potential key in cardiovascular disease: A randomized clinical trial in participants with vitamin D deficiency

Objective

The aim of this randomized controlled clinical trial was to determine the effect of the omega-3 fatty acid supplementations 300 mg per day for 8 weeks on the serum levels of ACE/ACE2 ratio in Jordanian participants with vitamin D deficiency (VDD).

Methods

The physical and clinical characteristic of individuals in both intervention and control randomized controlled clinical trial were measured and analyzed. The comparisons between the two groups and the changes in each group before and after taking omega-3 doses were studied through independent t test and paired t test, respectively. Possible factors that have a role in the changes were determined by multivariate stepwise regression. Follow-up period lasted 10 weeks.

Results

The sample consisted of 82 participants with VDD and a mean age of 37.85 ± 9.85 years. Omega-3 Supplements resulted in a significant decrease in serum ACE levels, ACE/ACE2 ratio and serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25OHD). While the change in serum ACE2 levels and serum triglycerides levels were insignificant. Also, a significant increase in serum LDL levels were observed.

Conclusion

It is possible that taking high doses of omega-3 fatty acid supplementations have positive effects on the heart and circulatory system and could protect from COVID-19 or decrease disease severity, in connection with a decrease in the ACE/ACE 2 ratio. On the other hand, omega-3 supplement may have negative effect on cardiovascular system due to the significant increase in serum LDL levels.

Screening of Aqueous Extract of Persea americana Seeds for Alpha-Glucosidase Inhibitors

Activity of α-glucosidase enzyme in the gastrointestinal tract has been implicated in postprandial hyperglycaemia. If not properly controlled, postprandial hyperglycaemia might progress to diabetes mellitus, a metabolic syndrome. Diabetes is associated with many complications such as retinopathy, heart attack, nephropathy, neuropathy, stroke, and lower limb amputation. Antidiabetic medications presently in use have little effect on postprandial glycaemic excursion and hence do not bring down the blood glucose level to baseline. This study extracted, fractionated, and screened the aqueous extract of Persea americana seeds for hypoglycaemic potential. Inhibitory effects of the fractions and subfractions of the extract on α-glucosidase activity were investigated. The most active subfraction was subjected to Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and gas chromatography mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) analysis to elucidate the active components. The active subfraction showed a significant inhibition (p < 0.05) on α-glucosidase. The subfraction competitively inhibits α-glucosidase (with IC50 = 09.48 ± 0.58 μg/mL), though less potent than the standard drug, acarbose (IC50 = 06.45 ± 0.47 μg/mL). FTIR analysis of the subfraction showed the presence of carbonyl group, hydroxy group, carboxyl group, double bonds, methylene, and methyl groups. GC-MS analysis suggests the presence of cis-11,14-eicosadienoic acid, catechin, and chlorogenic acid as the active components. In conclusion, the components obtained from this study can be synthesised in the laboratory to further confirm their hypoglycaemic activity. The most active subfraction can be explored further to confirm its inhibitory activity against the enzyme and to determine its extent in the treatment of diabetes mellitus in vivo.

Diversity-Oriented Synthesis of Spiropyrrolo[1,2-a]isoquinoline Derivatives via Diastereoselective and Regiodivergent Three-Component 1,3-Dipolar Cycloaddition Reactions: In Vitro and in Vivo Evaluation of the Antidiabetic Activity of Rhodanine Analogues

An efficient diastereoselective route is developed to get access to novel spiropyrrolo[1,2-a]isoquinoline-oxindole skeletons by a one-pot three-component [3 + 2] cycloaddition reaction of (Z)-5-arylidene-1,3-thiazolidine-2,4-diones, isatin derivatives, and 1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline (THIQ). Interestingly, the regioselectivity of the reaction is both temperature- and solvent-dependent, allowing the synthesis of two regioisomeric endo-dispiropyrrolo[2,1-a]isoquinolineoxindoles in excellent yield. Unprecedentedly, each isomeric dispiropyrrolo[2,1-a]isoquinolineoxindole endured retro-1,3-dipolar cycloaddition/recycloaddition reactions under thermal or catalytic conditions to regenerate the corresponding regioisomeric counterpart. In addition, DFT calculations were performed at the M062X/6-31++g(d,p) level of theory to unravel the origin of the reversal of regioselectivity and endo-stereoselectivity of the title 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reactions. Upon treatment of Isatin, THIQ with (Z)-4-arylidene-5-thioxo-thiazolidin-2-ones as dipolarophiles, unusual rhodanine analogues were formed, along with smaller amounts of a dispirooxindole-piperazine. The structure and the relative configuration of these N-heterocycles were unambiguously assigned by spectroscopic techniques and confirmed by four single-crystal structures. In vitro and in vivo studies reveal that the novel rhodanine derivatives exert antidiabetic activity. The binding affinity with the active site of the enzyme α-amylase was studied by molecular docking. Furthermore, the bioavailability assessed through virtual ADME parameters (Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Elimination pharmacokinetics) and the excellent fit with the Lipinski and Veber rules predict good drug-likeness properties for a bromo-substituted 2-sulfanylidene-1,3-thiazolidin-4-one.

Virtual screening of potential phyto-candidates as therapeutic leads against SARS-CoV-2 infection

The outbreak of novel coronavirus strain (Covid-19) with a high pandemic threat has predict grave public health and economic concerns. This virus, originating from the Wuhan region in China has spread worldwide affecting millions with no registered persuasive targeted therapy. In this paper, we analyze the three important proteins encoded by the virus, envelope protein 5 × 29, RNA binding nucleocapsid protein 1SSK, and spike glycoprotein 6ACD, for an effective virion accumulation, and remdesivir was the first drug approved by the FDA and EMA for the treatment of COVID-19 cases that require hospitalization, there is still much controversy about its efficacy and also an alternative for novel phytochemicals, deoxynojirimycin, trigoneoside IB, and octanoic acid. The in-silico evaluations were conducted using the PyRx virtual screening tools which lead to the target based on high binding affinity. Trigoneoside IB, derived from Trigonella foenum-graecum (Fenugreek), showed the highest binding affinity and stable interaction with the amino acid residues present in active sites of Covid-19 proteins. Meanwhile, the other two compounds derived from Morus alba (Mulberry) and Morinda citrifolia (Noni), as well as the anti-HIV remdesivir drug exhibited good binding affinity and favorable ADME properties. Thereby offering scope for validation of the new therapeutic components for their in vitro and in vivo efficacy against the Covid-19 proteins.

Synthesis, antidiabetic activity and molecular docking study of rhodanine-substitued spirooxindole pyrrolidine derivatives as novel α-amylase inhibitors

In a sustained search for novel α-amylase inhibitors for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), we report herein the synthesis of a series of nineteen novel rhodanine-fused spiro[pyrrolidine-2,3'-oxindoles]. They were obtained by one-pot three component [3 + 2] cycloaddition of stabilized azomethine ylides, generated in situ by condensation of glycine methyl ester and the cyclic ketones 1H-indole-2,3-dione (isatin), with (Z)-5-arylidine-2-thioxothiazolidin-4-ones. The highlight of this protocol is the efficient high-yield construction of structurally diverse rhodanine-fused spiro[pyrrolidine-2,3'-oxindoles] scaffolds, including four contiguous stereocenters, along with excellent regio- and diastereoselectivities. The stereochemistry of all compounds was confirmed by NMR and corroborated by an X-ray diffraction study performed on one derivative. All cycloadducts were evaluated in vitro for their α-amylase inhibitory activity and showed good α-amylase inhibition with IC₅₀ values ranging between 1.49 ± 0.10 and 3.06 ± 0.17 µM, with respect to the control drug acarbose (IC₅₀ = 1.56 µM). Structural activity relationships (SARs) were also established for all synthesized compounds and the binding interactions of the most active spiropyrrolidine derivatives were modelledby means of molecular insilico docking studies. The most potent compounds 5 g, 5 k, 5 s and 5 l were further screened in vivo for their hypoglycemic activity in alloxan-induced diabetic rats, showing a reduction of the blood glucose level. Therefore, these spiropyrrolidine derivatives may be considered as promising candidates for the development of new classes of antidiabetic drugs.

Essential Oil-Bearing Plants From Balkan Peninsula: Promising Sources for New Drug Candidates for the Prevention and Treatment of Diabetes Mellitus and Dyslipidemia

Metabolic diseases like diabetes mellitus or dyslipidemia have a complex etiology characterized by the interference of genetic predisposition and environmental factors like diet or lifestyle. Over time they can cause significant vascular complications, leading to dysfunction or failure of key organs (brain, heart), with possible fatal consequences or a severe reduction of life quality. Although current authorized drugs may successfully control blood glucose or cholesterol level, their use is often associated with severe side effects, therefore the development of new drug candidates is necessary for a better management of metabolic diseases. Among potential new drug sources, aromatic plants rich in essential oils like Melissa officinalis L., Mentha x piperita L., Cuminum cyminum L. or Pistacia lentiscus L. var. chia are very promising due to their diverse chemical composition and multiple mechanisms of action. This review describes a series of recent experimental studies investigating antidiabetic and hypolipemic effects of essential oils extracted from several aromatic plant species with an ethnopharmacological relevance in the Balkan peninsula. The pharmacological models used in the studies together with the putative mechanisms of action of the main constituents are also detailed. The presented data clearly sustain a potential administration of the studied essential oils for the prevention and treatment of metabolic diseases. Further research is needed in order to ascertain the therapeutic importance of these findings.

Alpha-glucosidase and amylase inhibitory effects of Eruca vesicaria subsp. longirostris essential oils: synthesis of new 1,2,4-triazole-thiol derivatives and 1,3,4-thiadiazole with potential inhibitory activity

Context: The substantial increase in the number of diabetics has encouraged the search for new pharmacological strategies to face this problem. In this regard, triazole and its derivatives have attracted considerable attention for the past few decades due to their pharmacological significance. Objective: Evaluation of the inhibitory activity of α-glucosidase and α-amylase in essential oils extracted from plant Eruca vesicaria (L) Cav. subsp. longirostris (Brassicaceae) (EVL) and to verify whether the triazoles and thiadiazol bearing the lipophilic 4-methylthiobutyl group synthesized from the essential oil contribute to this activity. Materials and methods: The essential oils were extracted by hydrodistillation from leaf, stem, root, and fruit of EVL, and their chemical compositions were analyzed by gas chromatography and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. We present here the synthesis of three new types of 1,2,4-triazole-thiol and 1,3,4-thiadiazol and the structures were confirmed by NMR, mass spectrometry. The α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibitory activities were investigated in vitro. Results: The main compound in fruit, stem, and root was erucin (96.6, 85.3, and 83.7%, respectively). The three essential oils of the fruit, stem, and root have strong inhibitory activity on α-glucosidase and α-amylase; IC₅₀ values of roots were 0.81 ± 0.02 μg/mL and 0.13 ± 0.01 μg/mL, respectively. Derivatives 1 b, 2 b, 3 b, and 2c showed remarkable inhibitory activity against α-glucosidase with potencies better than that of acarbose with IC₅₀ values ranging between 0.49 and 1.43 μM. Conclusions: Current results indicate that ECL fruit essential oil can be used as a natural precursor for the synthesis of triazoles as potential hypoglycemic agents.

Phytoestrogens inhibit key-enzymes linked to obesity, type 2 diabetes and liver-kidney toxicity in high fructose-fat diet in mice

Objective: To evaluate the effect of the administration of phytoestrogens on obesity, type 2 diabetes, and liver-kidney toxicity. Methods: Phytoestrogens (phyto(E2)) were administrated to high fructose-fat diet (HFFD). Results: This study showed that administration of phyto(E2) to HFFD-mice inhibited lipase activity by 34%, decreased body weight by 20% and modulated lipid profile, showed a decrease in total-cholesterol (TC) and LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C) rates in the plasma by 59% and 42%, respectively, and increased the HDL-cholesterol (HDL-C) level by 31%. In addition, the administration of phytoestrogens to HFFD-mice exerts an inhibitory effect on α-amylase activity and decreased glucose level by 28% and increase in liver glycogen level by 33%; and ameliorate oral glucose tolerance test. Conclusions: This study demonstrate that phyto(E2) has both a promising potential with regards to the inhibition of intestinal lipase and α-amylase activities, and a valuable hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic function.

Evaluation of the Anti-Diabetic Activity of Some Common Herbs and Spices: Providing New Insights with Inverse Virtual Screening

Culinary herbs and spices are widely used as a traditional medicine in the treatment of diabetes and its complications, and there are several scientific studies in the literature supporting the use of these medicinal plants. However, there is often a lack of knowledge on the bioactive compounds of these herbs and spices and their mechanisms of action. The aim of this study was to use inverse virtual screening to provide insights into the bioactive compounds of common herbs and spices, and their potential molecular mechanisms of action in the treatment of diabetes. In this study, a library of over 2300 compounds derived from 30 common herbs and spices were screened in silico with the DIA-DB web server against 18 known diabetes drug targets. Over 900 compounds from the herbs and spices library were observed to have potential anti-diabetic activity and liquorice, hops, fennel, rosemary, and fenugreek were observed to be particularly enriched with potential anti-diabetic compounds. A large percentage of the compounds were observed to be potential polypharmacological agents regulating three or more anti-diabetic drug targets and included compounds such as achillin B from yarrow, asparasaponin I from fenugreek, bisdemethoxycurcumin from turmeric, carlinoside from lemongrass, cinnamtannin B1 from cinnamon, crocin from saffron and glabridin from liquorice. The major targets identified for the herbs and spices compounds were dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP4), intestinal maltase-glucoamylase (MGAM), liver receptor homolog-1 (NR5A2), pancreatic alpha-amylase (AM2A), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARA), protein tyrosine phosphatase non-receptor type 9 (PTPN9), and retinol binding protein-4 (RBP4) with over 250 compounds observed to be potential inhibitors of these particular protein targets. Only bay leaves, liquorice and thyme were found to contain compounds that could potentially regulate all 18 protein targets followed by black pepper, cumin, dill, hops and marjoram with 17 protein targets. In most cases more than one compound within a given plant could potentially regulate a particular protein target. It was observed that through this multi-compound-multi target regulation of these specific protein targets that the major anti-diabetic effects of reduced hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia of the herbs and spices could be explained. The results of this study, taken together with the known scientific literature, indicated that the anti-diabetic potential of common culinary herbs and spices was the result of the collective action of more than one bioactive compound regulating and restoring several dysregulated and interconnected diabetic biological processes.

Advances on application of fenugreek seeds as functional foods: Pharmacology, clinical application, products, patents and market

Trigonella foenum-graecum L. (fenugreek) is one of the oldest applied medicinal herbs. Significant pharmacological and clinical evidence have highlighted the medicinal application of fenugreek. Explore the current knowledge regarding the bioactivity (animal aspects) and clinical application of fenugreek and its bioactive components, as well as the products, markets and patents related to fenugreek. This review highlights the phytochemicals, bioactivity (animal aspects) and clinical application of fenugreek from recent literatures and products, markets and patents from database. Until now, more than 100 phytochemicals have been isolated from fenugreek seeds, mainly including polysaccharides, saponins, alkaloids, phenolic acids, and flavonoids. Fenugreek extract and its bioactive compounds showed excellent antidiabetic activity and anti-obesity activity in animal and human study. Although the fenugreek seed has been used as TCM raw materials for a long time of period in China, China is lacking the research of fenugreek in both depth and width.

Attenuation of diabetic nephropathy by dietary fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) seeds and onion (Allium cepa) via suppression of glucose transporters and renin-angiotensin system

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of dietary fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) seeds and onion on the hyperglycemia-stimulated glucose transporters and activation of renin-angiotensin system-mediated cascade of events leading to renal lesions in diabetic animals.

METHODS

The mechanistic aspects of nephroprotective influence of dietary fenugreek seeds (10%) and onion (3%) on diabetic renal lesions was investigated in streptozotocin diabetic rats. Renal damage was assessed by measuring proteinuria, enzymuria, expression of glucose transporters, renin-angiotensin system, and activities of polyol pathway enzymes.

RESULTS

Diabetes resulted in an upregulation of glucose transporters in kidney tissue, which was countered by these dietary interventions. The upregulation of renal angiotensin-converting enzyme and its receptor was also countered by these dietary interventions. Dietary fenugreek and onion significantly reduced metabolites of polyol pathway, nitric oxide, and N-acetyl-β-d-glucosaminidase activity. Markers of podocyte damage in kidney (nephrin, podocin, and podocalyxin) and their urinary excretion were normalized along with downregulation of the expression of kidney injury molecule-1 by these dietary interventions. Dietary fenugreek and onion effectively countered the diabetes-induced structural abnormalities of renal tissue.

CONCLUSION

Feeding fiber-rich fenugreek seeds and sulfur compounds-rich onion produced a blockade in glucose translocation and renin-angiotensin system in the early stage of diabetic nephropathy. This involved a downregulation of the expression of polyol pathway enzymes, partial restoration of the podocyte damage, revival of renal architecture and functional abnormality. The present study also suggested that these two dietary interventions offer a higher renoprotective influence when consumed together.

Medicinal plants with concomitant anti-diabetic and anti-hypertensive effects as potential sources of dual acting therapies against diabetes and hypertension: A review

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Diabetes and hypertension are pathophysiologically related diseases that co-exist with a wider complex of metabolic diseases having similar set of risk factors. There are numerous ethnopharmacological evidences on the anti-diabetic and/or anti-hypertensive properties of medicinal plants from various parts of the world, which are used as therapies to concomitantly manage diabetes and hypertension.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

This article reviewed findings on medicinal plants with both anti-diabetic and anti-hypertensive effects reported in same experimental study to facilitate the development of dual-acting therapies against diabetes and hypertension.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A literature search was carried out on different scientific search engines including, but not limited to "PubMed", "Google Scholar", "Scopus" and ScienceDirect to identify published data in which plants in same experimental studies were reported to possess both anti-hyperglycemic and anti-hypertensive effects. Subsequently, the anti-diabetic/anti-hypertensive potency ratio (ψ) of the medicinal plants was computed.

RESULTS

Sixty-four studies with 102 plant species matched the selection criteria. Members of the Fabaceae family were the most investigated plants, while the ψ greatly varied across the plants, with only 11 plants having a ψ ≃ 1. Withania somnifera Dunal was the only plant reported to show blood glucose-lowering and diuretic effects in humans, comparable to daonil. Caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, caftaric acid, cichoric acid, verbascoside, leucosceptoside A, isoacteoside, fucoxanthin and nicotinamide were the reported dual acting anti-diabetic and anti-hypertensive compounds identified and/or isolated in the plants.

CONCLUSIONS

This review suggests that medicinal plants possess varied therapeutic dynamics against hypertension and diabetes that could be exploited for the discovery of therapeutic preparation(s) or agent(s) for treating the two diseases.

Metabolic impairments and tissue disorders in alloxan-induced diabetic rats are alleviated by Salvia officinalis L. essential oil

The current research explored for the first time the effect of Salvia officinalis L. (Sage) essential oil (EO) on Alloxan-induced diabetes in male Wistar rats. Sage EO was extracted by a Clevenger apparatus and analyzed by GC-FID and GC-MS. The most important chemical families identified in this oil were oxygenated monoterpenes (56.32%), hydrocarbon monoterpenes (15.00%) and hydrocarbon sesquiterpenes (14.70%). All treatments were administered orally. In vitro investigation showed that the EO had α-amylase and lipase inhibitory activities with IC₅₀ = 38 μg/mL and IC₅₀ = 52 μg/mL, respectively. In vivo experiments highlighted that the activities of serum α-amylase and lipase were reduced by 46.6% and 32.1%, respectively. Sage EO reduced glycemia by 60% and the level of glycogen stored in the liver by 43.7%. Treatments of diabetes with Sage EO significantly protected the liver function by lowering serum AST (35%), ALT (79%) and LDH (43%) activities. Furthermore, Sage EO was efficient to preserve the kidney function in diabetes by reverting back serum creatinine (47%) and UA (62.5%) concentrations to control values. The obtained results altogether evidenced that Sage EO had hypoglycemic and anti-obesity effects and could be a valuable complement in future diabetes therapy.

Which Benefits and Harms of Using Fenugreek as a Galactogogue Need to Be Discussed during Clinical Consultations? A Delphi Study among Breastfeeding Women, Gynecologists, Pediatricians, Family Physicians, Lactation Consultants, and Pharmacists

Background

Breastfeeding women with hypogalactia are commonly recommended to use fenugreek as a galactogogue. This study aimed to achieve formal consensus among breastfeeding women and healthcare providers on which potential harms and benefits of using fenugreek need to be communicated and discussed during clinical consultations.

Methods

A two-iterative round Delphi technique was used in two separate panels of breastfeeding women (n = 65) and healthcare providers (n = 56) to achieve formal consensus on a list of 24 and 16 items related to potential harms and benefits of fenugreek.

Results

About 70% of the healthcare providers recommended quite often herbal remedies for breastfeeding women and about 68% of the women had been recommended to use herbal remedies many times by their healthcare providers. Consensus was achieved on 21 potential harms and 14 potential benefits of using fenugreek to enhance human milk supply that need to be discussed with breastfeeding women during consultations.

Conclusion

Probably, potential harms and benefits of recommending fenugreek as herbal galactogogue for breastfeeding women seeking recommendations to increase their human milk supply need to be discussed during clinical consultations. Further observational studies are needed to assess what is being discussed in daily consultations when herbal remedies are recommended.

An Overview on Indications and Chemical Composition of Aromatic Waters (Hydrosols) as Functional Beverages in Persian Nutrition Culture and Folk Medicine for Hyperlipidemia and Cardiovascular Conditions

Hydrosol beverages in Persian nutrition culture and ethnomedicine are the side products of essential oil industry that are used as delicious drinks or safe remedies. To investigate indications and chemical composition of hydrosol beverages for hyperlipidemia and cardiovascular conditions, Fars province was selected as the field of study. Ethnomedical data were gathered by questionnaires. The constituents of hydrosols were extracted with liquid/liquid extraction and analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Statistical analysis were used to cluster their constituents and find the relevance of their composition. A literature survey was also performed on plants used to prepare them. Thymol was the major or second major component of these beverages, except for wormwood and olive leaf hydrosols. Based on clustering methods, although some similarities could be found, composition of barberry, will fumitory, dill, and aloe hydrosols have more differences than others. These studies may help in developing some functional beverages or new therapeutics.

The effects of food essential oils on cardiovascular diseases: A review

Essential oils (EO) are complex secondary metabolites, which are produced by aromatic plants and identified by their powerful odors. Present studies on EO and their isolated ingredients have drawn the attention of researchers to screen these natural products and evaluate their effect on the cardiovascular system. Some EO, and their active ingredients, have been reported to improve the cardiovascular system significantly by affecting vaso-relaxation, and decreasing the heart rate and exert a hypotension activity. Several mechanisms have been proposed for the role of EO and their main active components in promoting the health of the cardiovascular system. The objective of this review is to highlight the current state of knowledge on the functional role of EO extracted from plants for reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases and their mechanisms of action. Research on EO has the potential to identify new bioactive compounds and formulate new functional products for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases such as arterial hypertension, angina pectoris, heart failure, and myocardial infarction.

Protective effects of Cynara scolymus leaves extract on metabolic disorders and oxidative stress in alloxan-diabetic rats

BACKGROUND

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is associated with hyperglycemia, inflammatory disorders and abnormal lipid profiles, currently the extracts from leaves of cynara scolymus has been discovered to treat metabolic disorders and has been stated by multitudinous scientists according to a good source of polyphenols compounds. The present study aimed to evaluate the protective effect of the ethanol leaves extract of C. scolymus in alloxan induced stress oxidant, hepatic-kidney dysfunction and histological changes in liver, kidney and pancreas of different experimental groups of rats.

METHODS

We determinate the antioxidant activity by ABTS .+ and antioxidant total capacity (TAC) of all extracts of C. scolymus leaves, the inhibition of α-amylase activity in vitro was also investigated. Forty male Wistar rats were induced to diabetes with a single dose intraperitoneal injection (i.p.) of alloxan (150 mg/kg body weight (b.w.)). Diabetic rats were orally and daily administrated of ethanol extract from C. scolymus at two doses (200-400 mg/kg, b.w) or (12 mg/kg, b.w) with anti-diabetic reference drug, Acarbose for one month. Ethanol extract of C. scolymus effect was confirmed by biochemical analysis, antioxidant activity and histological study.

RESULTS

The results indicated that the ethanol extract from leaves of C. scolymus showed the highest antioxidant activity by ABTS .+ (499.43g± 39.72 Trolox/g dry extract) and (128.75 ± 8.45 mg VC /g dry extract) for TAC and endowed the powerful inhibition in vitro of α-amylase activity with IC50=72,22 ug/uL. In vivo, the results showed that ethanol extract from the leaves of C. scolymus (200-400 mg/kg) decreased significantly (p < 0.001) the α-amylase levels in serum of diabetic rats, respectively associated with significant reduction (p < 0.001) in blood glucose rate of 42,84% and 37,91% compared to diabetic groups after 28 days of treatment, a significant lowered of plasma total cholesterol (T-Ch) by 18,11% and triglyceride (TG) by 60,47%, significantly and low-density lipoproteins (LDL-C) by 37,77%, compared to diabetic rats, moreover, the administration of ethanol extract appears to exert anti-oxidative activity demonstrated by the increase of CAT, SOD and GSH activities in liver, kidney and pancreas of diabetic rats. This positive effect of the ethanol extract from C. scolymus was confirmed by histological study.

CONCLUSION

These observed strongly suggest that ethanol extract from the leaves of C. scolymus has anti-hyperglycemic properties, at least partly mediated by antioxidant and hypolipidemic effects.

Evaluation of Bacillus subtilis SPB1 biosurfactant effects on hyperglycemia, angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) activity and kidney function in rats fed on high-fat-high-fructose diet

This study investigated the protective and the curative effects of Bacillus subtilis SPB1 crude lipopeptide biosurfactant in alleviating induced obesity complications in rats fed on high-fat-high-fructose diet (HFFD). Male Wistar rats were divided into five groups with the following treatment schedule: normal diet-fed rats (CD), HFFD-fed rats, HFFD-fed rats supplemented with SPB1 biosurfactant from the first day of the experiment (HFFD + Bios1), rats fed on HFFD receiving standard drug (HFFD + Torva), or SPB1 biosurfactant (HFFD + Bios2) during the last 4 weeks of the study. HFFD induced hyperglycemia, manifested by a significant (p < 0.001) increase (20%) in the levels of glucose and α-amylase activity in the plasma, when compared with CD. The administration of SPB1 biosurfactant to rats fed on HFFD reverted back normal blood glucose and α-amylase activity levels. Also, the findings clearly showed that acute oral administration of SPB1 biosurfactant reduced significantly (34%) the peak of blood glucose concentration 60 min after glucose administration, as compared with untreated rats fed on HFFD. Furthermore, renal dysfunction indices such as creatinine and urea as well as the level of angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) exhibited remarkable increases in serum of rats fed on HFFD by 28.35%, 46%, and 92%,. Interestingly, SPB1 lipopeptides treatments decreased the creatinine and urea levels significantly (p < 0.001) near normal values, as compared with that of the HFFD group, and also showed an improvement of the kidney cortex architecture. Moreover, SPB1 biosurfactant displayed a potent inhibition of ACE activity in vitro (CI₅₀ value=1.37 mg/mL) as well as in vivo in obese rats by 42% and 27.25% with HFFD + Bios1 and HFFD + Bios2 treatments, respectively, and comparatively with the HFFD group. Besides, SPB1 lipopeptides treatments improved some of serum electrolytes such as Na⁺, K⁺, Ca²⁺, and Mg²⁺. The results showed that SPB1 lipopeptide biosurfactant presented useful hypoglycemic and antihypertensive properties, and was able to alleviate renal lipid deposition in rats fed on a hypercaloric diet.

Extraction of Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graceum L.) Seed Oil Using Subcritical Butane: Characterization and Process Optimization

In this study, the subcritical butane extraction process of fenugreek seed oil was optimized using response surface methodology with a Box-Behnken design. The optimum conditions for extracted oil from fenugreek seed was as follows: extraction temperature of 43.24 °C , extraction time of 32.80 min, and particle size of 0.26 mm. No significant differences were found between the experimental and predicted values. The physical and chemical properties of the oil showed that the oil could be used as edible oil. Fatty acid composition of oils obtained by subcritical butane under the optimum conditions and by accelerated solvent extraction showed negligible difference. The oils were rich in linoleic acid (42.71%-42.80%), linolenic acid (26.03%-26.15%), and oleic acid (14.24%-14.40%). The results revealed that the proposed method was feasible, and this essay shows the way to exploit fenugreek seeds by subcritical butane extraction under the scope of edible oils.

Inhibitory activities of Cystoseira crinita sulfated polysaccharide on key enzymes related to diabetes and hypertension: in vitro and animal study

The present study investigated the effect of the Cystoseira crinita sulfated polysaccharide (CCSP) on key enzymes activities related to diabetes in vitro and in diabetic rats. We found that CCSP inhibited pancreatic α-amylase with IC50 = 39.16 μg/ml and angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) activity with IC50 = 58.35 μg/ml in vitro. In diabetic rats, the administration of CCSP reduced the activity of α-amylase in serum, pancreas, and intestine by 23%, 44.38%, and 45%, respectively as compared to untreated diabetic rats. Moreover, the administration of CCSP to surviving diabetic rats protects pancreas β cells from death and damage, which leads to insulin levels. The decrease in α-amylase and the increase in insulin level lead to a decrease in glucose rate by 56% as compared to untreated diabetic rats. The inhibitory action of α-amylase activity and hypoglycemic effect of CCSP were confirmed by oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). In addition, the administration of CCSP to surviving diabetic rats normalizes lipid profile, stimulates antioxidant capacity, and prevents liver-kidney toxicities, evidenced by decrease in serum indices of liver and kidney toxicity and confirmed by histological analysis. The overall findings presented in this study demonstrate that the administration of CCSP to diabetic rats can make it a potentially strong candidate for industrial application as a pharmacological agent for the treatment of hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and liver-kidney dysfunctions.

Essential oil of Zygophyllum album inhibits key-digestive enzymes related to diabetes and hypertension and attenuates symptoms of diarrhea in alloxan-induced diabetic rats

CONTEXT

Zygophyllum album L. (Zygophyllaceae), commonly known as Bougriba, is widely used to treat diabetes, digestive tract spasm, and hypertension in folk medicine, in Tunisia.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigates the antidiabetic, antidiarrheal, and antihypertensive activities of the leaves of the essential oil from Zygophyllum album (OZA) in alloxan-induced diabetic rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The oil was obtained by hydrodistillation and analyzed by GC-MS. Males rats were divided into four groups: control, diabetic-untreated group, diabetic-treated group with acarbose (10 mg/kg), and diabetic-treated rats with OZA (200 mg/kg) for 30 d.

RESULTS

At the end of the experimental period, the OZA significantly decreased the activity of α-amylase in pancreas and serum of the diabetic rats by 43% and 38%, respectively, which led to reduce the serum glucose level by 60% and lower of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) rate by 17% as compared with untreated diabetic animals. Moreover, the OZA treatment attenuated symptoms of diarrhea, improved lipid disorders, and hypertension through inhibiting the pancreatic lipase and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) activities by 47% and 25%, respectively, in serum of diabetic rats.

CONCLUSION

OZA showed a good effect in the management of diabetes mellitus and exerted preventive action from related hypertension.

Effect of Sardina pilchardus oil on alloxan-induced diabetic rats

The purpose of this study was to prevent or to delay the onset of diabetes-related complications, by using a natural marine resource, Sardina pilchardus oil, administrated to alloxan-induced diabetic rats showing hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis of the sardine oil detected 18 constituents. The major ones were n-3 highly unsaturated fatty acids among which are docosahexaenoic acid (25.09%) and eicosapentaenoic acid (19.61%). Sardine oil inhibited the α-amylase activity in rats' sera (26.82%) and thus improved glycemia (54%). The supplement of this oil protected the β-cells from death and damage, significantly decreased total triglycerides, total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol concentrations in diabetic rats' sera and increased the HDL-cholesterol level. Gavage administration of this oil to rats protected the liver and kidney functions by reducing the aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase and phosphatase alkaline activities, and by decreasing creatinine, urea and uric acid levels.

Trigonella foenum-graecum ameliorates acrylamide-induced toxicity in rats: Roles of oxidative stress, proinflammatory cytokines, and DNA damage

Acrylamide is a hazardous substance inducing oxidative stress. Based on some evidence on the antioxidant properties of fenugreek, Trigonella foenum-graecum, this study was conducted to investigate the protective effect of fenugreek seed oil against acrylamide toxicity. Thirty-two male Wistar rats were randomly assigned into four groups. The control group was given normal saline. The second group was administered acrylamide (20 mg/kg bw orally). The third and fourth groups were administered acrylamide (20 mg/kg bw) and supplemented with 2.5% and 5% fenugreek seed oil in their diets, respectively. Acrylamide intoxication significantly increased serum levels of LDH, AST, ALT, APL, γ-GT, cholesterol, uric acid, urea, creatinine, 8-oxo-2'-deoxyguanosine, interleukin 1 beta, interleukin 6, and tumor necrosis factor α. Moreover, it increased hepatic, renal, and brain lipid peroxidation, while it impaired the activities and concentrations of the antioxidant biomarkers. Fenugreek oil supplementation normalized the altered serum parameters, prevented lipid peroxidation, and enhanced the antioxidant biomarker concentrations and activities in the hepatic, renal, and brain tissues of acrylamide-intoxicated rats in a dose-dependent manner. Thus, these results indicate that Trigonella foenum-graecum oil has a protective effect against acrylamide-induced toxicity through its free radical scavenging and potent antioxidant activities.

Trigonella foenum-graecumprotection against deltamethrin-induced toxic effects on haematological, biochemical, and oxidative stress parameters in rats

Trigonella foenum-graecum L. is enriched with many active ingredients. TFG oil was evaluated for its protective effect against deltamethrin toxicity in rats. Rats of the control group were administered saline. The 2nd group was administered deltamethrin (DLM) orally at a concentration of 15 mg/kg body mass. The 3rd and 4th groups were administered DLM at a concentration of 15 mg/kg body mass and were fed diets containing 2.5% and 5% TFG oil, respectively. DLM intoxication reduced red blood cell and platelet counts, hemoglobin concentration, and hematocrit value while it induced leucocytosis. Furthermore, it increased serum levels of lactate dehydrogenase, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, γ-glutamyltransferase, triglycerides, cholesterol, uric acid, urea, and creatinine; increased hepatic, renal, and brain lipid peroxidation; decreased serum acetylcholine esterase level; and decreased hepatic, renal, and brain antioxidant markers’ activities. However, TFG oil kept the studied hematological and biochemical parameters within normal ranges. In addition, it prevented lipid peroxidation and oxidative stress induced by DLM intoxication in a dose-dependent manner. Therefore, these results indicated that TFG oil inhibited the toxic effects of DLM on hematological and biochemical parameters as well as oxidative status by its free radical scavenging and potent antioxidant activities, and it appeared to be a promising protective agent against DLM-induced toxicity.

Anti-inflammatory effects of ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and soluble epoxide hydrolase inhibitors in angiotensin-II-dependent hypertension

The mechanisms underlying the anti-inflammatory and antihypertensive effects of long-chain ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω-3 PUFAs) are still unclear. The epoxides of an ω-6 fatty acid, arachidonic acid epoxyeicosatrienoic acids also exhibit antihypertensive and anti-inflammatory effects. Thus, we hypothesized that the major ω-3 PUFAs, including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), may lower the blood pressure and attenuate renal markers of inflammation through their epoxide metabolites. Here, we supplemented mice with an ω-3 rich diet for 3 weeks in a murine model of angiotensin-II-dependent hypertension. Also, because EPA and DHA epoxides are metabolized by soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH), we tested the combination of an sEH inhibitor and the ω-3 rich diet. Our results show that ω-3 rich diet in combination with the sEH inhibitor lowered Ang-II, increased the blood pressure, further increased the renal levels of EPA and DHA epoxides, reduced renal markers of inflammation (ie, prostaglandins and MCP-1), downregulated an epithelial sodium channel, and upregulated angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 message and significantly modulated cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase metabolic pathways. Overall, our findings suggest that epoxides of the ω-3 PUFAs contribute to lowering systolic blood pressure and attenuating inflammation in part by reduced prostaglandins and MCP-1 and by upregulation of angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 in angiotensin-II-dependent hypertension.

Inhibition of key enzymes related to diabetes and hypertension by Eugenol in vitro and in alloxan-induced diabetic rats

The present study investigated the effect of treating diabetic rats with eugenol (EG). In vitro enzyme activity was measured in the presence of eugenol, and it was found to inhibit pancreatic α-amylase (IC(50) = 62.53 µg/mL) and lipase (IC(50) = 72.34 µg/mL) as well as angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) activity (IC50 = 130.67 µg/mL). In vivo, EG reduced the activity of amylase in serum, pancreas and intestine also the peak level of glucose by 60% compared to diabetic rats. Furthermore, eugenol similar to acarbose reduced serum glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), lipase and ACE levels. In addition, treatments with EG showed notable decrease in serum total-cholesterol, triglycerides and low density lipoprotein-cholesterol levels with an increase of high density lipoprotein-cholesterol. Overall, EG significantly reverted back to near normal the values of the biochemical biomarkers such as transaminases (AST&ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), creatine phosphokinase (CPK) and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) activities, total-bilirubin, creatinine, urea and uric acid rates.

Inhibition of carbohydrate and lipid digestive enzymes activities by Zygophyllum album extracts: effect on blood and pancreas inflammatory biomarkers in alloxan-induced diabetic rats

Zygophyllum album has been used as herbal medicine in Southern Tunisia to treat several diseases such as diabetes mellitus. This study is aimed to reveal the mechanisms underlying the antihyperglycemic potential, the anti-inflammatory and the protective hematological proprieties of this plant in diabetic rats. The inhibition of the α-amylase activity by different solvent-extract fractions of Z. album was tested in vitro. The fraction endowed with the powerful inhibitory activity against α-amylase was administered to surviving diabetic rats for 30 days. Data from in vitro indicated that each extract from the medicinal plant showed moderate inhibition of α-amylase enzyme except the ethyl acetate extract which was ineffective. The powerful inhibition was achieved by ethanol extract of Z. album (EZA) with an IC50 of 43.48 μg/ml as compared to acarbose (Acar) with an IC50 of 14.88 μg/ml. In vivo, the results showed that EZA decreased the α-amylase levels in serum, pancreas and intestine of diabetic rats by 40 %, 45 % and 46 %, respectively, associated with considerably reduction in blood glucose rate by 61 %. Moreover, the EZA helped to protect the structure and function of the β-cells. Interestingly, EZA had a potent anti-inflammatory effect which is manifested by decreases in CRP and TNF-α levels. Overall, a notable reduction in lipase activity both in serum and small intestine of treated diabetic rats resulted in the improvement of serum and liver lipids profile. Z. album showed a prominent antidiabetic effect via inhibition of carbohydrate and lipid digestive enzymes and ameliorated the inflammation and the disturbance of hematological biomarkers in diabetes.

Inhibitory activities of Ulva lactuca polysaccharides on digestive enzymes related to diabetes and obesity

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of alga Ulva lactuca polysaccharides (ULPS) on key enzymes related to diabetes and obesity. This marine natural product, ULPS, exerted potential inhibition on key enzymes related to starch digestion and absorption in both plasma and small intestine mainly α-amylase by 53% and 34% and maltase by 97 and 164% respectively, leading to a significant decrease in blood glucose rate by 297%. Moreover, ULPS potentially inhibited key enzymes of lipid metabolism and absorption as lipase activity in both plasma and small intestine by 235 and 287% respectively, which led to a notable decrease of blood LDL-cholesterol and triglycerides levels, and in the counterpart an increase in HDL-cholesterol level in surviving diabetic rats. Additively, ULPS significantly protected the liver-kidney functions, by decreasing of aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT) and gamma-glytamyl transpeptidase (GGT) activities and creatinine, urea and albumin rates in plasma.

Activation of renin-angiotensin system is involved in dyslipidemia-mediated renal injuries in apolipoprotein E knockout mice and HK-2 cells

Background

Dyslipidemia and activation of renin-angiotensin system (RAS) contribute to the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD). This study investigated possible synergistic effects of intrarenal RAS activation with hyperlipidemia in renal injuries.

Methods

Apolipoprotein knockout mice were fed with normal chow diet (control) or high fat diet (HF group) for eight weeks. Human proximal tubular epithelial cell line (HK-2) was treated without (control) or with cholesterol (30 μg/ml) plus 25-hydroxycholesterol (1 μg/ml) (lipid group) for 24 hours. The plasma lipid profile and RAS components were determined by clinical biochemistry assay and radiommunoassay, respectively. Collagen deposition in kidneys was evaluated by Masson-staining. The gene and protein expressions of molecules involved in RAS components and biomarkers of epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) were examined by real-time PCR, immunochemical staining, and Western blot.

Results

The mice fed with high-fat diet showed significant hyperlipidemia with collagen deposition in renal tubular interstitium compared to controls. The plasma levels of renin, angiotensin I, and angiotensin II were no difference in two groups. However, the kidneys of HF group showed up-regulated RAS components, which were positively associated with increased plasma levels of triglyceride, total cholesterol, and LDL. These effects were further confirmed by in vitro studies. Lipid loading induced HK-2 cells underwent EMT, which was closely associated with the increased expressions of intracellular RAS components.

Conclusions

Local RAS activation was involved in hyperlipidemia-mediated renal injuries, suggesting that there are synergistic effects resulting from RAS activation with hyperlipidemia that accelerates the progression of CKD.

Inhibition of key digestive enzymes related to diabetes and hyperlipidemia and protection of liver-kidney functions by trigonelline in diabetic rats

Diabetes is a serious health problem and a source of risk for numerous severe complications such as obesity and hypertension. Treatment of diabetes and its related diseases can be achieved by inhibiting key digestive enzymes related to starch and lipid digestion. The findings revealed that the administration of trigonelline to surviving diabetic rats helped to protect the pancreas β-cells from death and damage. Additionally, the supplement of trigonelline to surviving diabetic rats significantly decreased intestinal α-amylase and maltase by 36 and 52%, respectively, which led to a significant decrease in the blood glucose rate by 46%. Moreover, the administration of trigonelline to surviving diabetic rats potentially inhibited key enzymes of lipid metabolism and absorption such as lipase activity in the small intestine by 56%, which led to a notable decrease in serum triglyceride (TG) and total cholesterol (TC) rates and an increase in the HDL cholesterol level. This treatment also improved glucose, maltase, starch, and lipid oral tolerance. Trigonelline was also observed to protect the liver-kidney functions efficiently, which was evidenced by the significant decrease in the serum aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activities and creatinine, albumin, and urea rates. The histological analysis of the pancreas, liver, and kidney tissues further established the positive effect of trigonelline. Overall, the findings presented in this study demonstrate that the administration of trigonelline to diabetic rats can make it a potentially strong candidate for industrial application as a pharmacological agent for the treatment of hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and liver-kidney dysfunctions.

Antidiabetic effects of natural plant extracts via inhibition of carbohydrate hydrolysis enzymes with emphasis on pancreatic alpha amylase

INTRODUCTION

The increasing prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus and the negative clinical outcomes observed with the commercially available anti-diabetic drugs have led to the investigation of new therapeutic approaches focused on controlling postprandrial glucose levels. The use of carbohydrate digestive enzyme inhibitors from natural resources could be a possible strategy to block dietary carbohydrate absorption with less adverse effects than synthetic drugs.

AREAS COVERED

This review covers the latest evidence regarding in vitro and in vivo studies in relation to pancreatic alpha-amylase inhibitors of plant origin, and presents bioactive compounds of phenolic nature that exhibit anti-amylase activity.

EXPERT OPINION

Pancreatic alpha-amylase inhibitors from traditional plant extracts are a promising tool for diabetes treatment. Many studies have confirmed the alpha-amylase inhibitory activity of plants and their bioactive compounds in vitro, but few studies corroborate these findings in rodents and very few in humans. Thus, despite some encouraging results, more research is required for developing a valuable anti-diabetic therapy using pancreatic alpha-amylase inhibitors of plant origin.