Investigation of the hypoglycemic/antidiabetic potential and toxicity profile of some plants in control of blood glucose level in experimental animal models

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is a major heterogeneous endocrine and metabolic disorder, characterized by altered metabolism of carbohydrate, lipid and protein, which leads to hyperglycaemia and causes many physiological complications, such as hyperlipidemia, hypertension and atherosclerosis. The global prevalence of diabetes among adults as per WHO, was estimated at 150 million in 1995, and this is projected to increase to 300 million by 2025. The oxidative stress, caused by free radicals induced by hyperglycemia, contributes to the development and progression of diabetes along with secondary complications. The plants containing natural antioxidants (tannins, flavonoids, vitamin C and E, etc.) that can preserve and#946;-cell function and prevent diabetes induced ROS formation and many plant species are known in folk medicine of different cultures to be used for their hypoglycaemic properties and therefore used for treatment of DM (Abdel-Barry et al., 1997; Pushparaj et al., 2000). Despite this, few traditionally used antidiabetic plants have received proper scientific screening (Bakirel et al, 2008). The World Health Organization (WHO) has recommended that this area warrants further evaluation (WHO, 1980). Solanum nigrum Linn. (Solanaceae) commonly known as Black Berried Nightshade found in disturbed habitats, distributed throughout India. The leaves are reported to contain several constituents e.g. flavonols like Quercetin, Hyperoside, Steroids and alkaloids etc. The Kondh tribes of Orissa, India use the hot aqueous extract of the fruits and leaves as a folk medicine for the treatment of diabetes mellitus. newlineMollugo pentaphylla Linn. commonly known as carpet weed (English), Pitta saga (Oriya) is a perennial herb found throughout India. The plant is reported to contain Flavones such as Apigenin and Mollupentin, Mollugogenol A, an antifungal triterpenoid, Mollugogenol B, Mollugogenol D, Oleanolic acid and a steroid Beta Sitosterol.