Decreased Fasting Blood Glucose Research Articles

Impact of Melatonin Supplementation on Glycemic Parameters in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Several previous studies indicated that melatonin supplementation may positively affect glycemic control in patients with diabetes. However, research on the influence of melatonin supplementation on glycemic parameters remains inconclusive. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the impacts of melatonin supplementation on glycemic parameters in type 2 diabetes by conducting a meta-analysis. PubMed/Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science were comprehensively searched until July 2024 to find eligible randomized clinical trials (RCTs). The overall effect sizes were estimated by using the randomeffect model and presented as weighted mean differences (WMD) with a 95% confidence interval (CI). Furthermore, the heterogeneity among the included trials was assessed by performing the Cochran Q test and interpreted based on the I² statistic. Of the 1361 papers, eight eligible RCTs were included in this meta-analysis. Our findings indicated that melatonin supplementation significantly decreased fasting blood glucose (WMD = -12.65 mg/dl; 95% CI: -20.38, -4.92; P = 0.001), insulin (WMD = -2.30 μU/ml; 95% CI: -3.20, -1.40; P < 0.001), hemoglobin A1c (WMD = -0.79 %; 95% CI: -1.28, -0.29; P = 0.002), and HOMA-IR (WMD, -0.83; 95% CI: -1.59 to - 0.07; P = 0.03). According to the results of the current meta-analysis, persons with type 2 diabetes who supplement with melatonin had improved glycemic control. It looks that supplementing with melatonin at a dose exceeding 6 mg daily for over a period of 12 weeks may be more successful than other forms of intervention. Nevertheless, further research with larger sample sizes is necessary to draw definitive conclusions.

The effect of hydrophilic statins on adiponectin, leptin, visfatin, and vaspin levels in streptozocin-induced diabetic rats.

Statins may affect glucose metabolism through adipokines. The aim of this study was to measure the effects of hydrophilic statins on the levels of several adipokines in diabetic rats. Wistar albino rats were divided into four groups: healthy control, untreated diabetic, diabetic treated with pravastatin, and diabetic treated with rosuvastatin. Diabetes was induced by intraperitoneal injection of STZ. Thereafter, 20 mg/kg/day doses of either pravastatin or rosuvastatin were administered to the treated diabetic rats for 8 weeks. At the end of the experiment, the body weights, fasting blood glucose levels, serum insulin levels, and insulin resistance, as well as the serum adiponectin, leptin, visfatin, and vaspin levels, were measured. Fasting blood glucose and insulin resistance levels were significantly higher, whereas insulin levels and body weight were significantly lower in the untreated diabetic group than in the control group. Diabetes caused significant decreases in adiponectin, leptin, and vaspin levels but a significant increase in visfatin levels. Pravastatin treatment significantly increased body weight and decreased fasting blood glucose levels, whereas rosuvastatin decreased body weight but did not affect fasting blood glucose levels. Pravastatin caused significant increases in both adiponectin and vaspin levels. However, rosuvastatin did not affect the adiponectin level but caused a significant decrease in the vaspin levels. Both pravastatin and rosuvastatin treatments decreased the leptin and visfatin levels. In conclusion, pravastatin is more effective at improving fasting blood glucose levels and body weight in diabetic rats, probably by increasing adiponectin and vaspin levels.

A-079 Investigation of gut microbial flavonoid catabolites in metabolic diseases

Abstract Background Flavonoids, a secondary metabolite found in plant-based diets, have gained attention in the last decade for their antioxidative properties in high-fat diet induced obesity animal models and human studies. Previous work showed that certain gut microbiota members can metabolize flavonoids into monophenolic acids (MPAs), and some of these MPAs have similar effects to insulin when administered orally. Our objective is to explore the microbiome connection between flavonoid-rich diets and improved metabolic parameters in obesity. We hypothesize that flavonoid-supplemented diets are most effective in the presence of gut microbiota capable of MPA formation and that these bacterial metabolites are the main bioactive compounds responsible for the improved metabolic parameters Methods To investigate our hypothesis, we fed male and female C57BL/6 mice a high-fat control diet (HFD) or the same diet supplemented with 1% MPA or 1% berry extract for 12 weeks. Each group was further divided into subgroups that received regular drinking water (RW) or antibiotic water (ABW) to suppress gut microbial communities. A range of metabolic parameters, such as body weight, lean and fat mass, glucose and insulin tolerance, histological assessment of liver cells, quantification of liver injury biomarkers, transcriptional changes in metabolically active tissues, and glucose and lipid metabolism pathways, were monitored. Additionally, 16s sequencing was performed on the cecal microbial composition of each group. Results Mice on HFD control with RW or ABW showed prominent hepatic steatosis and an increase in liver lipids accumulation demonstrated by a significant decrease in the activation of lipid metabolism pathways. Similarly, mice on HFD with 1% MPA and RW or ABW exhibited a significant reduction in hepatic steatosis and an increase in the activation of the lipid metabolism pathways, regardless of gut microbiota presence. In line with our hypothesis, mice on HFD with 1% berry extract and RW showed a similar reduction in hepatic steatosis to both 1% MPA groups. However, mice on HFD with 1% berry extract and ABW displayed noticeable hepatic steatosis, indicating the loss of the positive effect provided by berry extract metabolites once gut microbiota was depleted by antibiotics. Insulin tolerance test revealed a gut microbial effect as well in the HFD with 1% berry extract, illustrated by a significant reduction in glucose levels after insulin injection and an increase in insulin sensitivity. In contrast, the HFD control mice experienced an increase in glucose levels after insulin injection and insulin resistance. Although there were notable decreases in fasting blood glucose, there were no significant effects on fat and lean mass, insulin, glucagon, or liver injury marker levels. Finally, the mice on HFD with 1% berry extract had significantly more diverse cecal microbial communities than those fed HFD or HFD with 1% MPA. Conclusions Feeding mice a flavonoid-rich diet in the presence of intact gut microbiome can improve metabolic parameters associated with metabolic diseases, potentially preventing, or reversing these diseases. Our findings suggest promising avenues for treatment, such as dietary flavonoid supplementation with concurrent gut microbial probiotic therapy.

Curcumin extract improves beta cell functions in obese patients with type 2 diabetes: a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundType 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic condition characterized by insulin resistance and impaired insulin production, leading to elevated blood glucose levels. Curcumin, a polyphenolic compound from Curcuma longa, has shown potential in improving insulin sensitivity and reducing blood glucose levels, which may help mitigate type 2 diabetes progression.ObjectiveTo assess the efficacy of improving type 2 diabetes (T2DM).Study designThis randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial included subjects (n = 272) with criteria for type 2 diabetes.MethodsAll subjects were randomly assigned to receive curcumin (1500 mg/day) or placebo with blind labels for 12 months. To assess the improvement of T2DM after curcumin treatments body weight and body mass index, fasting plasma glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin A1c, β-cell function (homeostasis model assessment [HOMA-β]), insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), insulin, adiponectin, and leptin were monitored at the baseline and at 3-, 6-, 9-, and 12-month visits during the course of intervention.ResultsAfter 12 months of treatment, the curcumin-treated group showed a significant decrease in fasting blood glucose (115.49 vs.130.71; P < 0.05), HbA1c (6.12 vs. 6.47; P < 0.05). In addition, the curcumin-treated group showed a better overall function of β-cells, with higher HOMA-β (136.20 vs. 105.19; P < 0.01) The curcumin-treated group showed a lower level of HOMA-IR (4.86 vs. 6.04; P < 0.001) and higher adiponectin (14.51 vs. 10.36; P < 0.001) when compared to the placebo group. The curcumin-treated group also showed a lower level of leptin (9.42 vs. 20.66; P < 0.001). Additionally, body mass index was lowered (25.9 4 vs.29.34), with a P value of 0.001.ConclusionsA 12-month curcumin intervention in type 2 diabetes patients shows a significant glucose-lowering effect. Curcumin treatment appeared to improve the overall function of β-cells and reduce both insulin resistance and body weight, with very minor adverse effects. Curcumin intervention in obese patients with type 2 diabetes may be beneficial.Trial registrationThai clinical trials regentrify no.20140303003.

Antidiabetic and Hypolipidemic Effect of Ethanolic Seed Extract of Prosopis juliflora in Fructose Induced Hyperglycemia in Rats

Objective: To evaluate the antidiabetic and hypolipidemic effect of ethanolic seed extract of Prosopis juliflora in fructose induced hyperglycemia in wistar albino rats in comparison with Metformin. Materials and methods: 30 male wistar albino rats were divided equally into 5 groups. Group I and II were the normal and the disease control groups. While, groups III to V were the treatment groups. Animals in group I received regular drinking water; whereas, groups II to V received 20% fructose water for 8 weeks. After 8 weeks, animals in groups II to V had elevated fasting blood sugar, HOMA-IR, weight gain and dyslipidemia. From week 9 to 16 group I animals continued to receive regular drinking water, group II received 2ml of distilled water and groups III, IV and V received Metformin 200mg/kg, P.juliflora extract 400mg/kg and 600mg/kg respectively in addition to 20% fructose water. The animals were sacrificed at the end of 16 weeks and histopathological examination of pancreas was done. Biochemical and hematological assessments were done at baseline and at 16 weeks to assess safety of the interventions. Results: When compared to the disease control group, animals in group III treated with metformin and groups IV and V treated with P.juliflora extract at doses of 400mg/kg and 600mg/kg showed a significant decrease in Fasting blood glucose, HOMA-IR and improvement in lipid profile. Even though both the doses of the extract showed significant pharmacological activity, 600mg/kg showed better activity equivalent to metformin. Histopathological examination of pancreas showed regenerative changes in the metformin and P.juliflora 600mg/kg treated groups. No significant abnormality was observed in the biochemical and haematological parameters at the end of the study. Conclusion: P.juliflora seed extract in the dose 400 mg/kg and 600mg/kg exhibited antidiabetic and hypolipidemic activity with no significant adverse events, in this study. Both the doses were having anti dyslipidemic effect similar to metformin whereas 600 mg/kg dose of P.juliflora was having better antidiabetic effect comparable to Metformin. Keywords: Diabetes, Dyslipidemia, P.juliflora, Fructose, Metformin, Metabolic syndrome

Probiotic therapy as a promising strategy for gestational diabetes mellitus management.

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) has become the most common pregnancy medical complication, and its prevalence has increased in recent years. The GDM treatment primarily relies on adopting healthy eating habits, physical exercise, and insulin therapy. However, using probiotics to modulate the gut microbiota has been the subject of clinical trials as a promising therapeutic strategy for GDM management. Due to the adverse effects of gut dysbiosis in women with GDM, strategies targeting the gut microbiota to mitigate hyperglycemia, low-grade inflammation, and adverse pregnancy outcomes have been explored. Probiotic supplementation may improve glucose metabolism, lipid profile, oxidative stress, inflammation, and blood pressure in women with GDM. Furthermore, decreased fasting blood glucose, insulin resistance, and inflammatory markers, such as TNF-α and CRP, as well as increased total antioxidant capacity, lipid profile modulation, and improved blood pressure in women with GDM, are some of the important results reported in the available literature. To fill the knowledge gap, further studies are needed focusing on modulating gut microbiota composition and metabolic activity and their systemic repercussions in GDM.

Combination of Qi benefiting and blood circulation promoting herbs with Dapagliflozin in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus combined with heart failure: a systematic evaluation and meta-analysis based on a randomized controlled trial.

This systematic review examines the efficacy of a combination of Qi benefiting and blood circulation promoting herbs with Dapagliflozin in treating type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) combined with heart failure (HF). Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the combination of Qi benefiting and blood circulation promoting herbs with Dapagliflozin for T2DM and CHF was conducted. The search, spanning from the database's establishment to June 2023, included seven databases: China Knowledge Network (CNKI), Wanfang Database, VIP Database, PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and the Chinese Biomedical Literature Database. Two researchers screened and extracted data based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. The Cochrane Handbook version 5.1 guided the quality assessment of studies, and the meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.4 software. Eleven articles, encompassing a sample size of 1192 cases, were included. Meta-analysis results indicated that combining Qi benefiting and blood circulation promoting herbs with Dapagliflozin improved the clinical efficacy rate [OR=4.35, 95% CI (2.98, 6.35), P&lt;0.00001]. It reduced blood glucose levels, evidenced by decreased fasting blood glucose (FBG) [MD=-1.19, 95% CI (-1.30, -1.09), P&lt;0.00001], 2-hour postprandial blood glucose (2hPG) [MD=-1.95, 95% CI (-2.09, -1.80), P&lt;0.00001], and glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c) [MD=-1.40, 95% CI (-1.49, -1.31), P&lt;0.00001]. Inflammatory factors also reduced, including C-reactive protein (CRP) [MD=-4.93, 95% CI (-5.38, -4.48), P&lt;0.00001], tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) [MD=-2.91, 95% CI (-3.32, -2.49), P&lt;0.00001], and interleukin-6 (IL-6) [MD=-11.10, 95% CI (-12.43, -9.43), P&lt;0.00001]. Additionally, left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVEDD) [SMD=-1.25, 95% CI (-1.45, -1.05), P&lt;0.00001], left ventricular end-systolic diameter (LVESD) [SMD=-1.34, 95% CI (-1.51, -1.13), P&lt;0.00001], and improved left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF)[SMD=2.92, 95% CI (2.65, 3.19), P&lt;0.00001], 6-minute walk test (6MWT) [MD=35.59, 95% CI (29.72, 41.47), P&lt;0.00001], and Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire (MLHFQ) scores [MD=35.59, 95% CI (29.72, 41.47), P&lt;0.00001] were observed. The incidence of adverse events also decreased [RR=0.25, 95% CI (0.11, 0.56), P=0.0007]. The combination of Qi benefiting and blood circulation promoting herbs with Dapagliflozin shows potential in treating patients with T2DM and HF, suggesting its use as adjunctive therapy in clinical practice. However, the limited number and quality of the included studies necessitate further high-quality research to confirm these findings.

The Effect of Acupressure on Fasting Blood Glucose Levels in Clients with Type II Diabetes Mellitus

Diabetes mellitus is a? disease that has a characteristic signs? in the from of an increase in glucose levels exceeding normal range . The prevalence of diabetes mellitus is increasing significantly. Currently, the management? of diet, exercise and use therapy pharmacological therapy are option in the management of diabetes mellitus. In addition to these therapies, there are complementary therapies such as acupressure. The purpose of this study was to prove the acupressure intervention in influencing fasting blood glucose levels. This research was a quasi- experimental study with a nonequivalent control group design with pre – test post – test. This study had 38 respondents? whi were devided into 2 groups and were taken using a consecutive sampling techniques. This study was conducted from April 7th 2021 – May 9th 2021. The pre – test and post -test difference test used the wilcoxone test. The diferent test between groups used Man – Whitney test and Independent – t test. Study This showed that there were significant differences? before and after treatment in all groups p = &lt; 0.05. The results of the post-test differences between groups also showed p = 0.012 which shows that there are meaningful differences? between post-tests in groups intervention and control groups. Complementary therapy in the form of proven acupressure can decrease fasting blood glucose in type II diabetes mellitus patients, and complementary therapy in the form of acupressure can used for decrease fasting blood glucose levels in type II diabetes mellitus patients.

Cascara kombucha potential as a functional food for fasting glucose regulation, cholesterol control, and liver function modulation: in vitro and in vivo study

SummaryUnhealthy dietary patterns are a major contributor to obesity worldwide, leading to various adverse metabolic effects such as elevated liver enzyme levels and increased cholesterol concentrations. This study investigates the potential of cascara kombucha as a functional beverage to provide health benefits in both in vitro and in vivo models. Our results indicate that kombucha fermentation enhances the bioactive compounds in cascara, including polyphenols and flavonoids. The in vitro study found that cascara kombucha effectively decreased free radicals (DPPH and ABTS) levels, α‐amylase, and lipase activity, suggesting its potential to act as an antioxidant and modulate carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. In a mouse model, oral administration of cascara kombucha at a dose of 300 mg/kg body weight for 28 days successfully decreased fasting blood glucose levels, improved liver health by reducing aspartate transaminase and alanine transaminase levels, and lowered serum cholesterol content induced by a fat‐enriched diet compared to the untreated group. The levels of superoxide dismutase and catalase, suppressed by the fat‐enriched diet, were restored to normal. Additionally, cascara kombucha downregulated genes associated with inflammation induced by a fat‐enriched diet, including tnf‐α, IL‐6, IL‐1β, and cox‐2. It also positively affected the balance of intestinal microflora in mice by reducing coliform density and enhancing probiotic populations. These findings highlight the potential of cascara kombucha as a promising approach to addressing health issues caused by poor dietary habits and metabolic imbalances.

Potential of Bauhinia variegata leaves in the management of diabetic nephropathy

The present study was carried out to explore the potential of aqueous extract of leaves of Bauhinia variegata (AE) in the treatment of streptozotocin-induced diabetic nephropathy in rats. Diabetes was induced in male Sprague Dawley rats with streptozotocin (STZ) at a dose of 55 mg/kg (i.p.). Four weeks after induction of diabetes animals were treated with the extract at a dose of 250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg for 28 days. On the 28th day, biochemical parameters (glucose, glycosylated haemoglobin, total protein, albumin, creatinine, blood urea nitrogen) and urine parameters (total protein, creatinine) were evaluated. After completion of 28 days of treatment, animals were sacrificed and kidneys were isolated. Histopathological evaluation of kidney tissue was carried out by staining the tissue sections with hematoxylin and eosin (HE) stain, Periodic acid–Schiff (PAS) stain and Trichrome stain. Treatment with AE to diabetic rats for 28 days showed a significant decrease in fasting blood glucose, glycosylated haemoglobin, and biochemical parameter like albumin, total protein, creatinine, and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) which is an important marker for the progression of diabetic nephropathy. AE treatment also improved the urine parameters and histological changes in kidney tissue of STZ induced diabetic rats after 28 days of treatment. In-vitro advanced glycation end product inhibitory assay showed that AE possesses AGE inhibitory activity which can play important role in the prevention of DN progression. Present studies proved the potential of aqueous extract of Bauhinia variegata leaves and open a new alternative treatment approach for diabetic nephropathy.

Efficacy and Safety of Resveratrol in Patients with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract Background Resveratrol is a food component found in grapes, peanuts, cranberries.. It has a wide range of effects including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects. Resveratrol could ameliorate diabetes in diabetic animals and it showed beneficial effects in adults with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). Objectives This randomized-controlled trial assessed the efficacy and safety of oral resveratrol supplementation on glycemic control and lipid profile in pediatric patients with T1DM. Methods This study included 60 children and adolescents with T1DM. Enrolled patients aged 12- 18 years with disease duration &amp;gt; 5 years. Patients were randomly assigned into two groups; intervention group who received oral resveratrol tablets 250 mg twice daily. The other group (did not receive any supplementation and served as a control group. Both groups were followed-up for 6 months with assessment of fasting blood glucose (FBG), HbA1c% and fasting lipid profile. Results After 6 months, resveratrol therapy resulted in a significant decrease of FBG, HbA1c, triglycerides and total cholesterol compared with baseline levels and compared with the control group (p &amp;lt; 0.001). No significant difference was found between Patients with T1DM without resveratrol adjuvant therapy at baseline and at 6 months as regards any of the studied variables except for triglycerides and total cholesterol which were significantly increased at study end. Conclusions Resveratrol as an adjuvant therapy to insulin improved blood glucose levels, glycemic control and dyslipidemia without adverse effects in pediatric patients with T1DM.

Fecal microbiota transplantation: whole grain highland barley improves glucose metabolism by changing gut microbiota

Highland barley (HB) is a high-altitude cereal with rich nutritional components and potential health benefits. To clarify its hypoglycemic effect and mechanism, we investigated the effect of whole grain HB and fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) on glucose metabolism and gut microbiota in high-fat diet and streptozotocin (HFD/STZ)-induced diabetic mice. The results showed that HB (40 %) significantly decreased fasting blood glucose and the area under the glucose tolerance curve, significantly increased insulin secretion and improved insulin resistance in HFD/STZ-induced diabetic mice (P < 0.05). Inflammatory factors and blood lipid indices were also significantly alleviated after 12 weeks of 40 % HB intervention (P < 0.05). Additionally, beneficial bacteria, such as Bifidobacterium and Akkermansia, were significantly enriched in the gut of diabetic mice after whole grain HB intervention. Meanwhile, the results of further FMT experiments verified that the fecal microbiota after the 40 % HB intervention not only significantly increased the relative abundance of Bifidobacterium and Akkermansia but also effectively improved glucose metabolism and alleviated the inflammatory state in HFD/STZ-induced diabetic mice. Collectively, our study confirmed the bridge role of gut microbiota in improving glucose metabolism of whole grain HB, which could promote the development of precision nutrition.

Mechanism of Yupingfeng Powder on hepatic insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes mellitus rats by regulating IRS/PI3K/Akt pathway

Based on the insulin receptor substrate(IRS)/phosphoinositide 3-kinase(PI3K)/protein kinase B(Akt) pathway, the intervention effect of Yupingfeng Powder on type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM) rats was studied, and the potential mechanism of improving T2DM hepatic insulin resistance was explored. A T2DM rat model was established by feeding with high-fat and high-sugar feed combined with intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin. Successfully modeled rats were selected and divided into a model group, a positive control group(MET), and a Yupingfeng Powder group. At the same time, a blank group was set up, and corresponding drugs were given by gavage. The model group and blank group were given an equal amount of physiological saline by gavage. During the experiment, body mass and fasting blood glucose were regularly measured, and glucose tolerance and insulin tolerance were measured at the end of the experiment. After the experiment, the levels of blood glucose, insulin, blood lipids, and related liver function indicators were measured; changes in liver pathological damage were observed, levels of liver monoamine oxidase were detected, and qRT-PCR was used to detect mRNA expression levels of IRS/PI3K/Akt pathway related genes. Compared with the model group, the Yupingfeng Powder group had an increase in body weight, a decrease in fasting blood glucose, fasting insulin, and steady-state model evaluation index, a decrease in the area under the curve of glucose tolerance and insulin tolerance tests, a decrease in serum total cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol content, and an increase in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol content. Compared with the model group, the Yupingfeng Powder group showed a decrease in liver monoamine oxidase levels, a decrease in serum aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, and total bilirubin levels, and an increase in total protein and albumin levels. Hematoxylin-eosin(HE) staining showed a reduction in pathological liver cell damage. Compared with the model group, the Yupingfeng Powder group showed a significant increase in the mRNA expression levels of IRS1, PI3K, and Akt in the liver of rats, as well as a significant decrease in the mRNA expression levels of interleukin-6(IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α). This indicates that Yupingfeng Powder can regulate the IRS/PI3K/Akt signaling pathway and glucose and lipid metabolism disorders, increase insulin sensitivity, improve hepatic insulin resistance, and thus play a therapeutic role in T2DM.

Pulmo-protection of long-term swimming exercise via improving insulin sensitivity in monocrotaline-induced pulmonary hypertensive rats

Exercise has been recognized as an effective intervention in the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), supported by numerous studies. However, the precise effects of exercise on pulmonary function remain to be fully elucidated. In this study, using a rat model of swimming exercise training and monocrotaline-induced PAH, we aimed to explore its impact on pulmonary morphology and function. Our investigations revealed that MCT-treated rats exhibited augmented mean pulmonary arterial pressure (MPAP) and pulmonary vascular remodeling, which can be attenuated by 4 weeks of swimming exercise training (60 min/day, 5 days/week). Notably, MCT-treated rats showed impaired pulmonary function, as manifested by decreased tidal volume and dynamic compliance, which were reversed by exercise training. Assessment of pulmonary substrate in PAH rats indicated a prominent pro-inflammatory substrate, evidenced by macrophage accumulation through quantitative immunohistological analysis of macrophage-like cell expression (CD68), and extracellular matrix remodeling, evaluated by Masson staining. Importantly, both the pro-inflammatory substrate and extracellular matrix remodeling were ameliorated by swimming exercise training. Additionally, serum biochemical analysis demonstrated elevated levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and Apolipoprotein B following MCT treatment, which were reduced with exercise intervention. Moreover, exercise enhanced systemic insulin sensitivity in both MCT-treated and untreated rats. Notably, MCT and exercise treatment both decreased fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels in rats, whereas exercise training reinstated FBG levels to normal in MCT-treated rats. In summary, our study suggests that swimming exercise confers a pulmonary protective effect in MCT-induced PAH rats, highlighting the potential importance of exercise-based rehabilitation in the management of PAH.

Evaluation of the Effectiveness of In-Hospital Exercise Rehabilitation in Middle-Aged and Elderly Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Combined with Sarcopenia Effect of Lifestyle Management on Disease Status in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

ABSTRACT Objective The aim of this study was to explore the effects of in-hospital exercise rehabilitation on glucose and lipid metabolism and healthy physical fitness in middle-aged and elderly patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) combined with sarcopenia, and to provide a reference for the effective implementation of exercise rehabilitation for middle-aged and elderly patients with T2DM combined with sarcopenia in healthcare institutions. Methods This study retrospectively included 122 patients with T2DM combined with sarcopenia treated at the General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University from August 2017 to August 2020 and randomly divided into a control group and an experimental group. The control group was given conventional treatment and the experimental group was given exercise rehabilitation in the hospital for 12 weeks to compare the indexes related to glucose and lipid metabolism and healthy fitness in the two groups. Results After the intervention, the experimental group showed significant decreases in fasting blood glucose (FBG), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR), triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low-density cholesterol (LDL-C) and body fat percentage (p < 0.05), while high-density cholesterol (HDL-C), grip strength, lower limb extension, lower limb flexion, peak oxygen uptake were significantly higher (p < 0.05) and were more significant at 12 weeks compared to the 6-week intervention (p < 0.05). However, there were no significant changes in any of the glucose metabolism indicators in the control group before and after the intervention. A two-way repeated measures ANOVA showed that at control baseline levels, HbA1c decreased significantly in the experimental group after both 6 and 12 weeks of intervention compared to the control group (p < 0.05). After 6 weeks of intervention, the experimental group showed a significant decrease in body fat percentage and a significant increase in grip strength. After 12 weeks of intervention, the experimental group showed an increase in glycemic control from 33.3% to 73.3%, a significant decrease in body fat percentage and a significant increase in grip strength, lower limb extension and lower limb flexion strength and peak oxygen uptake. Conclusion In-hospital exercise rehabilitation can effectively improve the glycemic and lipid profiles of patients with T2DM combined with sarcopenia and enhance their health fitness, with good clinical rehabilitation effects.

Development of 1 Month Sustained-Release Microspheres Containing Liraglutide for Type 2 Diabetes Treatment.

Liraglutide has been extensively applied in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), but its 11-15 h half-life resulted in daily administration, which led to poor patient compliance. This study aimed to solve this problem by developing liraglutide-loaded microspheres with a 1 month sustained release prepared by the W1/O/W2 method combined with the premix membrane emulsification technique to improve therapeutic efficacy. Remarkably, we found that the amphiphilic properties of liraglutide successfully reduced the oil-water interfacial tension, resulting in a stable primary emulsion and decreasing the level of drug leakage into the external water phase. As a result, exceptional drug loading (>8%) and encapsulation efficiency (>85%) of microspheres were achieved. Furthermore, the uniformity in microsphere size facilitated an in-depth exploration of the structural characteristics of liraglutide-loaded microspheres. The results indicated that the dimensions of the internal cavities of the microspheres were significantly influenced by the size of the inner water droplets in the primary emulsion. A denser and more uniform cavity structure decreased the initial burst release, improving the release process of liraglutide from the microspheres. To evaluate the release behavior of liraglutide from microspheres, a set of in vitro release assays and in vivo pharmacodynamics were performed. The liraglutide-loaded microspheres effectively decreased fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels while enhancing the pancreatic and hepatic functions in db/db mice. In conclusion, liraglutide sustained-release microspheres showed the potential for future clinical applications in the management of T2DM and provided an effective therapeutic approach to overcoming patient compliance issues.

Capsaicin reduces blood glucose and prevents prostate growth by regulating androgen, RAGE/IGF-1/Akt, TGF-β/Smad signalling pathway and reversing epithelial-mesenchymal transition in streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a metabolic disease. Diabetes increases the risk of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Capsaicin is extracted from chili peppers and possesses many pharmacological properties, including anti-diabetic, pain-relieving, and anti-cancer properties. This study aimed to investigate the effects of capsaicin on glucose metabolism and prostate growth in T2DM mice and uncover the related mechanisms. Mice model of diabetes was established by administering a high-fat diet and streptozotocin. Oral administration of capsaicin for 2weeks inhibited prostate growth in testosterone propionate (TP)-treated mice. Furthermore, oral administration of capsaicin (5mg/kg) for 2weeks decreased fasting blood glucose, prostate weight, and prostate index in diabetic and TP-DM mice. Histopathological alterations were measured using hematoxylin & eosin (H&E) staining. The protein expression of 5α-reductase type II, androgen receptor (AR), and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) were upregulated in diabetic and TP-DM mice, but capsaicin reversed these effects. Capsaicin decreased the protein expression of p-AKT, insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), IGF-1R, and the receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) in diabetic and TP-DM mice. Capsaicin also regulated epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and modulated the expression of fibrosis-related proteins, including E-cadherin, N-cadherin, vimentin, fibronectin, α-SMA, TGFBR2, TGF-β1, and p-Smad in TP-DM mice. In this study, capsaicin alleviated diabetic prostate growth by attenuating EMT. Mechanistically, capsaicin affected EMT by regulating RAGE/IGF-1/AKT, AR, and TGF-β/Smad signalling pathways. These results provide with new therapeutic approach for treating T2DM or T2DM-induced prostate growth.

Tempeh-Based Supplement Decreases Blood Glucose Levels Through Inhibiting Rage and NF-κB Activity in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Mice Model

Objective: Hyperglycemia promotes inflammation through inducing the formation of AGE products, which bind with receptor AGE (RAGE) products in cell membranes, leading to the activation of necrosis factor–kappa beta (NF-κB). This study aimed to analyze the effects of tempeh-based supplement (TBS) preparations of γ-amino butyric acid (GABA) tempeh against mRNA expressions of RAGE and NF-κB on the pancreas of a type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) mice model. Material and Methods: This research was a quasi-experiment, with pre and post-tests with a control design for blood glucose levels; and post-test only utilizing control for mRNA RAGE and NF-κB expressions. A total of 30 male mice, 8-10 weeks old, weighing 20-25 g were divided into 6 treatment groups: non-diabetic, Diabetic, Diabetic+metformin, Diabetic+TBS 10 mg/100 g BW, Diabetic+TBS 20 mg/100 g BW, and Diabetic+TBS 40 mg/100 g BW. STZ induction once a day for two days was preceded by NA to create a DM mice model; meanwhile, TBS was administrated once a day for 21 days.Results: The mean difference of fasting glucose levels in the diabetic+TBS 40 mg/100 g BW group was the highest when compared to the diabetic group (159.52±1.85) mg/dL. One-way ANOVA revealed statistically significant differences in fasting glucose levels, RAGE and NF-κB expressions in the Diabetic+TBS group at various dosage levels compared to the diabetic control group. Relative mRNA expressions of RAGE and NF-κB were downregulated in the treatment group compared to the diabetic control group. Conclusion: TBS can decrease fasting blood glucose levels and downregulate relative mRNA expressions of RAGE and NF-κB in type 2 DM mice.

Plantaginis semen ameliorates diabetic kidney disease via targeting the sphingosine kinase 1/sphingosine-1-phosphate pathway

Ethnopharmacological relevancePlantaginis Semen (PS) is widely utilized as a common herb in several Asian countries, particularly China, due to its diuretic, anti-hypertensive, anti-hyperlipidemic, and anti-hyperglycemic properties. Furthermore, it is acknowledged for its ability to mitigate renal complications associated with metabolic syndrome. Despite its extensive usage, there is limited systematic literature elucidating its therapeutic mechanisms, thus emphasizing the necessity for comprehensive investigations in this field. AimThis study aims to comprehensively evaluate the therapeutical potential of PS in treating diabetic kidney disease (DKD) and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms through in vivo and in vitro models. MethodsThe main composition of PS were characterized using the UPLC-QTOF-MS method. For the in vivo investigation, a mouse model mediated by streptozocin (STZ) associated with a high-fat diet (HFD) and unilateral renal excision was established. The mice were split into 6 groups (n = 8): control group (CON group), DKD group, low-dose of Plantago asiatica L. seed extract group (PASE-L group, 3 g/kg/d), medium-dose of PASE group (PASE-M, 6 g/kg/d), high-dose of PASE group (PASE-H, 9 g/kg/d), and positive drug group (valsartan, VAS group, 12 mg/kg/d). After 8 weeks of treatment, the damage induced by DKD was evaluated by using relevant parameters of urine and blood. Furthermore, indicators of inflammation and factors associated with the SphK1-S1P signaling pathway were investigated. For the in vitro study, the cell line HBZY-1 was stimulated by high glucose (HG), they were then co-cultured with different concentrations of PASE, and the corresponding associated inflammatory and sphingosine kinase 1/sphingosine-1-phosphate (SphK1-S1P) factors were examined. ResultsA total of 59 major components in PS were identified, including flavonoids, iridoids, phenylethanol glycosides, guanidine derivatives, and fatty acids. In the mouse model, PS was found to significantly improve body weight, decrease fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels, increased glucose tolerance and insulin tolerance, improved kidney-related markers compared to the DKD group, pathological changes in the kidneys also improved dramatically. These effects showed a dose-dependent relationship, with higher PASE concentrations yielding significantly better outcomes than lower concentrations. However, the effects of the low PASE concentration were not evident for some indicators. In the cellular model, the high dose of PASE suppressed high glucose (HG) stimulated renal mesangial cell proliferation, suppressed inflammatory factors and NF-κB, and decreased the levels of fibrillin-1(FN-1) and collagen IV(ColIV). ConclusionOur results indicate that PS exerts favorable therapeutic effects on DKD, with the possible mechanisms including the inhibition of inflammatory pathways, suppression of mRNA levels and protein expressions of SphK1 and S1P, consequently leading to reduced overexpression of FN-1 and ColIV, thereby warranting further exploration.

The consumption of walnuts has an impact on decreasing fasting blood glucose levels in individuals with concurrent hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia: a randomized control trial

Nationally, the prevalence of Diabetes Mellitus (DM) has increased by 0.5%. In 2013, it was approximately 1.5%, rising to 2.0% in 2018. On the other hand, it is known that administering walnut extract can reduce blood sugar levels in diabetic patients. The aim of this study is to determine the effect of walnut consumption on blood sugar levels. The research was conducted experimentally, using a pre-post test control group design. The research sample consisted of mothers with fasting blood sugar levels ≥200 mg/dL and total cholesterol levels ≥200 mg/dL (hyperglycemic and hyperlipidemic). The total sample size was 50 mothers, divided into 2 groups. Samples were selected using simple random sampling. The intervention involved giving 50 grams of walnut (Canarium Indicum L.) daily for 8 weeks to the treatment group. The research was conducted in the working area of the Paccerakang Community Health Center in Makassar City, Indonesia. Statistical analysis was performed using paired T-tests. There was a decrease in fasting blood glucose levels in the treatment group from 244.12 mg/dL to 195.52 mg/dL. In the control group, there was a slight decrease in blood sugar levels from 236.92 mg/dL to 229.96 mg/dL. Paired T-test analysis in the treatment group showed a value of p=0.00, indicating a significant difference in cholesterol levels before and after the intervention in the treatment group. In the control group, the value was p=0.07, indicating no significant difference in cholesterol levels in the control group. Administering 50 grams of walnuts per day for 8 weeks significantly lowered fasting blood sugar levels in hyperlipidemic and hyperglycemic mothers.