Regulation Of Blood Glucose Levels Research Articles

Pancreatic β‑cell apoptosis in type 2 diabetes is related to post‑translational modifications of p53 (Review).

Pancreatic β‑cells are the only cells that synthesize insulin to regulate blood glucose levels. Various conditions can affect the mass of pancreatic β‑cells and decrease insulin levels. Diabetes mellitus is a disease characterized by insulin resistance and chronic hyperglycemia, mainly due to the loss of pancreatic β‑cells caused by an increase in the rate of apoptosis. Additionally, hyperglycemia has a toxic effect on β‑cells. Although the precise mechanism of glucotoxicity is not fully understood, several mechanisms have been proposed. The most prominent changes are increases in reactive oxygen species, the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential and the activation of the intrinsic pathway of apoptosis due to p53. The present review analyzed the location of p53 in the cytoplasm, mitochondria and nucleus in terms of post‑translational modifications, including phosphorylation, O‑GlcNAcylation and poly‑ADP‑ribosylation, under hyperglycemic conditions. These modifications protect p53 from degradation by the proteasome and, in turn, enable it to regulate the intrinsic pathway of apoptosis through the regulation of anti‑apoptotic and pro‑apoptotic elements. Degradation of p53 occurs in the proteasome and depends on its ubiquitination by Mdm2. Understanding the mechanisms that activate the death of pancreatic β‑cells will allow the proposal of treatment alternatives to prevent the decrease in pancreatic β‑cells.

Metabolites from Marine Macroorganisms of the Red Sea Acting as Promoters or Inhibitors of Amylin Aggregation.

Amylin is part of the endocrine pancreatic system that contributes to glycemic control, regulating blood glucose levels. However, human amylin has a high tendency to aggregate, forming isolated amylin deposits that are observed in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. In search of new inhibitors of amylin aggregation, we undertook the chemical analyses of five marine macroorganisms encountered in high populations in the Red Sea and selected a panel of 10 metabolites belonging to different chemical classes to evaluate their ability to inhibit the formation of amyloid deposits in the human amylin peptide. The thioflavin T assay was used to examine the kinetics of amyloid aggregation, and atomic force microscopy was employed to conduct a thorough morphological examination of the formed fibrils. The potential ability of these compounds to interact with the backbone of peptides and compete with β-sheet formation was analyzed by quantum calculations, and the interactions with the amylin peptide were computationally examined using molecular docking. Despite their structural similarity, it could be observed that the hydrophobic and hydrogen bond interactions of pyrrolidinones 9 and 10 with the protein sheets result in one case in a stable aggregation, while in the other, they cause distortion from aggregation.

Theaflavins mitigate diabetic symptoms in GK rats by modulating the INSR/PI3K-Akt/GSK-3 pathway and intestinal microbiota

Dietary management and interventions are crucial in the clinical management of diabetes. Numerous active dietary components in black tea have demonstrated positive effects on blood glucose levels and metabolic functions. However, limited research has explored the potential of theaflavins (TF), polyphenols in black tea, for diabetes management. In this study, high-purity TF was administered to Goto–Kakizaki (GK) diabetic model rats for four weeks to investigate its impact on diabetic pathology and analyze the underlying mechanisms through liver transcriptomics, hepatocyte metabolomics, and gut microbiome analysis. The findings indicated that continuous administration of TF (100 mg/kg) significantly suppressed blood glucose levels, reduced insulin resistance, and decreased the expression of oxidative stress indicators and inflammatory factors in GK rats. Further analysis revealed that TF might alleviate insulin resistance by improving hepatic glycogen conversion and reducing hepatic lipid deposition through modulation of key pathways, such as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors and PI3K/AKT/GSK-3 pathways within the liver, thereby ameliorating diabetic symptoms. Additionally, TF intake facilitated the restoration of the intestinal microbial community structure by reducing the abundance of harmful bacteria and increasing the abundance of beneficial bacteria. It also reduced endotoxin lipopolysaccharide production, thereby lowering the chances of insulin resistance development and enhancing its efficacy in regulating blood glucose levels. These findings offer a novel perspective on the potential of black tea and its active constituents to prevent and treat diabetes and other metabolic disorders, providing valuable references for identifying and applying active dietary components from tea.

Pulmonary administration of cross-linked chitosan nanoparticles of genistein for regulating blood glucose

The research study focused on the development and characterization of sustained release formulation of genistein (GEN)-loaded chitosan (CS) nanoparticles to deliver in the form of dry powder inhaler (DPI) via pulmonary route to offer higher stability and anti-diabetic activity. The GEN-loaded nanoparticles were prepared by cross-linking reaction of CS and sodium hexametaphosphate (SHMP). The optimized formulation displayed particle size (PS) of 684.2 ± 26.5 nm, zeta potential (ZP) of 19.6 ± 4.50 mV, % entrapment efficiency (% EE) of 87.33 ± 8.46 % and drug release profile of 85.48 ± 5.50 % for 48 h. The in-vivo studies exhibited a superior sustained release formulation of GEN in the regulation of blood glucose levels (BGLs). The powder showed the emitted fraction (EF) of 86.76 % and effective inhalation index (EI) of 85.41 %. The reduction of BGLs (85 %) was observed in the diabetic group. This might be due to the inhibition of proliferation of pancreatic β-cells (growth factor inhibition targeting cAMP and ERK1/2 pathway), antioxidative activity, reducing insulin resistance, and the adipose tissue mass and alteration of the hepatic glucose metabolism. Hence, these results proved the delivery of GEN in the form of DPI system as a favorable route for treating type-1 diabetes mellitus with a longer duration of action.

Hypoglycemic Effect of Polysaccharides from Physalis alkekengi L. in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Mice.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a common metabolic disease that adversely impacts patient health. In this study, a T2DM model was established in ICR mice through the administration of a high-sugar and high-fat diet combined with the intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin to explore the hypoglycemic effect of polysaccharides from Physalis alkekengi L. After six weeks of treatment, the mice in the high-dosage group (800 mg/kg bw) displayed significant improvements in terms of fasting blood glucose concentration, glucose tolerance, serum insulin level, insulin resistance, and weight loss (p < 0.05). The polysaccharides also significantly regulated blood lipid levels by reducing the serum contents of total triglycerides, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoproteins and increasing the serum content of high-density lipoproteins (p < 0.05). Furthermore, they significantly enhanced the hepatic and pancreatic antioxidant capacities, as determined by measuring the catalase and superoxide dismutase activities and the total antioxidant capacity (p < 0.05). The results of immunohistochemistry showed that the P. alkekengi polysaccharides can increase the expression of GPR43 in mice colon epithelial cells, thereby promoting the secretion of glucagon-like peptide-1. In summary, P. alkekengi polysaccharides can help to regulate blood glucose levels in T2DM mice and alleviate the decline in the antioxidant capacities of the liver and pancreas, thus protecting these organs from damage.

Green coffee and green tea as alternative medicines for the treatment of hyperglycemia

Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by the body's inability to regulate blood glucose levels effectively. An autoimmune disease known as type 1 diabetes occurs when the immune system erroneously targets and kills beta cells in the islets of the pancreas. Insulin resistance, a condition in which the body's cells do not adequately respond to insulin, causes type 2 diabetes. As the available hypoglycemic drugs exhibit several side effects, it is important to search for natural remedies to treat hyperglycemia in diabetic patients. The unroasted coffee beans used to make green coffee are rich in chlorogenic acid, a polyphenol with antioxidant effects and several biological activities. According to previous studies, chlorogenic acid improves insulin sensitivity, glycemic management, and glucose metabolism. Similarly, green tea is rich in catechins, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which exhibits several biological properties. Numerous studies have revealed that EGCG may help to enhance insulin sensitivity, insulin secretion, and glucose management. However, more research is required to determine the molecular mechanisms by which these phytochemicals in green tea and green coffee ameliorate the development of hyperglycemia and improve insulin sensitivity.

Building the Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Brick by Brick: Revisiting a 1993 Diabetes Classic by Thorens etal.

The glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R) is a class B G protein-coupled receptor involved in the regulation of blood glucose levels and food intake. Stabilized agonists targeting GLP-1R are used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes and have recently become a breakthrough obesity therapy. Here, we revisit a classic article in Diabetes by Thorens etal. that described the cloning, sequencing, and functional expression of the human GLP-1R. The article also demonstrated that exendin4(1-39) was a full agonist of the human GLP-1R whereas exendin4(9-39) was a full antagonist. We discuss how the knowledge imparted by these studies has gone on to inform multiple strands of GLP-1R biology over the past three decades, including pharmacology, signaling, human genetics, structural biology, and chemical biology.

Cultivating Health: Traditional Alcoholic Drink 'Tuak' as a Potential Functional Drink for Regulating Blood Glucose Levels while Keeping Cultural Significance Intact

This research examines the potential for developing traditional alcoholic drinks using Raru (Cotylelobium melanoxylon Pierre) as an additional ingredient in the fermentation of tuak. Tuak, as a traditional alcoholic drink that is popular in many regions in Indonesia, plays an important cultural role in traditional celebrations. The advantages of palm wine as a traditional alcoholic drink include its natural sweet taste, good nutritional content, low alcohol content and affordable price. By analyzing the potential of Raru as an additional ingredient in making palm wine, this research seeks to develop traditional alcoholic drinks that not only maintain cultural and traditional aspects, but also provide additional health benefits, especially in lowering blood sugar levels, by launching a new product called ' 'RaruReserve: Healthy Tuak”

Phytochemical Screening and Evaluation of Anti Diabetic Activity Using Momordica charantia (Leaf &amp; Stem) Extracts in Alloxan Induced Rats

Purpose: Current procedure is to find out the effect of anti-diabetic using Momordica Charantia (leaf and stem) extracts on Alloxan induced experimental rats. Methods: The leaf and stem extracts of Momordica charantia were prepared by using cold maceration technique. The obtained filtrates are then subjected to a distillation process to obtain pure and concentrated products. The phytochemical studies were performed for both the extracts. Wet granulation method was done for preparation of tablets. The α-Amylase inhibition assay was done to both leaf and stem extracts as an in vitro method and Alloxan induced anti diabetic method was done as an in vivo process for the experimental animals. At last creatinine and urea levels were estimated. Results: The phytochemical results of both leaf and the stem extracts were shown positive for phenols, tannins, flavonoids, glycosides, steroids, oils, fats and for alkaloids. The weight of the granules were reduced and found to be F1- 15.32gm, for granules F2-14.37gm, for granules F3-14.39gm and for granules F4- it was 13.83gm. For α-amylase inhibition assay the standard acarbose 58.70% of inhibition for 100 μg/ml concentrations, the leaf extract showed 80.58% of inhibition for 100μg/ml concentration and the stem extract showed 86.45% of inhibition for 100μg/ml concentration. In fasted rats for the extract-1 (leaf) the highest blood glucose level was seen at 0 min as 82(mg/dl) and for the extract-2(stem) the highest blood glucose level was seen at 0 min as 84(mg/dl). And for the Oral glucose tolerance test the extract-1(leaf) the highest blood glucose level was seen at 120 min as 119(mg/dl) and for the extract-2(stem) the highest blood glucose level was seen at 120 min as 108(mg/dl). Conclusion: The study attests to the therapeutic effects of the chosen plant extracts, which have been demonstrated to help prevent and regulate blood glucose levels. Furthermore, in managing diabetes and its associated problems. Momordica charantia plant extracts from the leaves and stems have demonstrated anti-hyperglycemic properties. The results of this investigation indicated that there was a notable antidiabetic response to the treatment using plant extracts (leaf &lt; stem).

Understanding Gut Health: Probiotics, Dysbiosis, and their Connection to Type 2 Diabetes - A Review

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a complex metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycaemia resulting from defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both. The pathophysiology of T2DM involves a multifaceted interplay of genetic, behavioural, and environmental factors. Beta cells play a central role in regulating blood glucose levels through intricate mechanisms involving insulin secretion triggered by elevated glucose concentrations and other factors. Dysfunction of beta cells in T2DM encompasses various molecular pathways influenced by factors such as hyperglycaemia, hyperlipidaemia, chronic inflammation, and genetic susceptibility, leading to impaired insulin secretion and insulin resistance. Recent research has highlighted the role of gut dysbiosis in the pathogenesis of T2DM, with alterations in gut microbiome composition impacting glucose metabolism. Dysbiosis-induced intestinal permeability can lead to systemic inflammation, contributing to insulin resistance and diabetes progression. Conversely, a diverse and rich gut microbiome has been associated with protection against obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. Probiotics, defined as live bacteria conferring health benefits when administered in adequate amounts, hold promise in mitigating T2DM-related metabolic derangements through various mechanisms, including modulation of gut microbiota, regulation of the gut-brain axis, and reduction of chronic low-grade inflammation. This provides a comprehensive overview of the mechanisms through which probiotics may positively impact glucose metabolism and discusses current evidence on the efficacy of probiotic supplementation in improving glycemic parameters and highlights the need for further research to elucidate strain-specific effects, optimal dosages, and long-term outcomes. Additionally, the translation of research findings into clinical practice and the potential of microbiome-targeted therapies for precision management of T2DM are explored, underscoring the importance of evidence-based guidelines for healthcare practitioners.

Bioactive Peptides from Meretrix lusoria Enzymatic Hydrolysate as a Potential Treatment for Obesity in db/db Mice.

Obesity is acknowledged as a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease, often accompanied by increased inflammation and diabetes. Bioactive peptides derived from marine animal proteins show promise as safe and effective anti-obesity agents by regulating adipocyte differentiation through the AMPK signaling pathway. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the anti-obesity and anti-diabetic effects of bioactive compounds derived from a Meretrix lusoria Protamex enzymatic hydrolysate (MLP) fraction (≤1 kDa) through a 6-week treatment (150 mg/kg or 300 mg/kg, administered once daily) in leptin receptor-deficient db/db mice. The MLP treatment significantly decreased the body weight, serum total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL-cholesterol levels while also exhibiting a beneficial effect on hepatic and serum marker parameters in db/db mice. A histological analysis revealed a reduction in hepatic steatosis and epididymal fat following MLP treatment. Furthermore, poor glucose tolerance was improved, and hepatic antioxidant enzyme activities were elevated in MLP-treated mice compared to db/db control mice. Western blot analysis showed an increased expression of the AMPK protein after MLP treatment. In addition, the expression of lipogenic genes decreased in db/db mice. These findings indicate that bioactive peptides, which are known to regulate blood glucose levels, lipid metabolism, and adipogenesis, could be beneficial functional food additives and pharmaceuticals.

Frequency of Hypoglycemia in Cirrhotic Patients Undergoing Endoscopy.

Liver cirrhosis isthe replacement of normal liver parenchyma by fibrous tissue and nodularity. Cirrhosis liver has a negative effect on the body's ability to regulate blood glucose levels because the liver cannot release the amount of glucose it wouldultimately cirrhotic patients are atrisk of hypoglycemia. To determine the frequency of hypoglycemia in cirrhotic patients just before endoscopy after being nil per mouth (NPO) for 6 hours. This cross-sectional study was done at the Department of Gastroenterology Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar from 1st April 2023 to 30th September 2023.Patients aged > 20 years of both genders, having Child-Pugh class C cirrhosis, and undergoing upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy were enrolled in the study while patients with a history of diabetes using oral or parenteral hypoglycemic medications, patients taking steroids, patients with hepatocellular carcinoma and patients with hepatic encephalopathy were excluded. Diagnosis of liver cirrhosis was based on clinical examination, serum albumin level, and prothrombin time followed by characteristic findings on ultrasound. Serum glucose level was determined in the blood sample of the patient from the hospital laboratory. Results:One hundred and ninety-six patients were enrolled including 130 (67.4%) males and 66 (32.6%) females. Age of the patients ranged from 20 to 60 years. The mean age of the participants was 46.68±10.239 years. Hypoglycemia was found in 48% of patients with liver cirrhosis. A significant association of hypoglycemia was found with disease duration and Child-Pugh class. Hypoglycemia is a frequent finding in patients with liver cirrhosis and needs urgent management to prevent complications. Prolonged illness and patients with Child-Pugh class C cirrhosis are more likely to have hypoglycemia.

Clinical Efficacy of the Integrative Use of Jiaying Su (Ensure) and Rui Dai (TPF-D) Intestinal Nutrition Formula in ICU Critically Ill Patients

Objective: This study aimed to assess the clinical effectiveness of combining Jiaying Su (Ensure) and Rui Dai intestinal nutrition formula (TPF-D) in Intensive Care Unit (ICU) critically ill patients. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 79 patients admitted to the ICU ward between January 2022 and January 2024, who received nutritional support therapy. Patients were divided into a control group (receiving Jiaying Su alone) and an observation group (receiving combined Jiaying Su and Rui Dai). Nutritional indicators, blood glucose levels, immune function markers, inflammatory factors, occurrence of complications, and prognosis were compared between the two groups. Results: After 7 days of treatment, the observation group exhibited a greater increase in serum albumin (ALB) and prealbumin (PAB) levels compared to the control group (&lt;i&gt;P&lt;/i&gt;&lt;0.05). Blood glucose levels, including fasting blood glucose (FBG) and postprandial 2-hour postprandial blood glucose, were significantly lower in the observation group than in the control group after treatment (&lt;i&gt;P&lt;/i&gt;&lt;0.05). The observation group also demonstrated higher levels of immunoglobulin G, immunoglobulin A, and complement C3 compared to the control group (&lt;i&gt;P&lt;/i&gt;&lt;0.05). Inflammatory markers, procalcitonin, and C-reactive protein levels were significantly reduced in both groups after treatment, with greater reductions observed in the observation group (&lt;i&gt;P&lt;/i&gt;&lt;0.05). The incidence of enteral nutrition complications was lower in the observation group (&lt;i&gt;P&lt;/i&gt;&lt;0.05), while the transfer from ICU to a general ward was higher (&lt;i&gt;P&lt;/i&gt;&lt;0.05). Conclusion: The combined use of Jiaying Su and TPF-D demonstrated favorable clinical efficacy in ICU critically ill patients. Compared to Jiaying Su alone, the addition of Rui Dai promoted better nutritional recovery, regulated blood glucose levels, improved immune function, mitigated inflammatory responses, and enhanced patient prognosis.

Design of an Insulin Tracer Protein-Based Biosensor for Insulin Determination

Aim: The regulation of blood glucose levels is controlled by insulin, which is produced by the pancreatic beta system. Inadequate synthesis of beta insulin, results in elevated glucose levels, a condition known as diabetes, which can lead to various chronic health issues. In recent times, the diagnosis of diabetes, particularly type 1, has shifted towards the direct measurement of insulin levels. To facilitate this, an immunosensor was created to enable rapid and sensitive examination of insulin levels, with the goal of improving the quality for life for diabetic patients. Material and Method: For this purpose, an insulin tracer protein based biosensor was designed for the determination of insulin at all solutions. For determination of insulin, electrobiochemical analyses were performed. Optimisation and characterisation studies were performed using differential pulse voltammetry. The performance of bioelectrochemical system was analysed by Receiver Operating Characteristic method. Results: The insulin biosensor cyclic woltammogram was obtained between -0,1 and 0,6 V potantial. At 0,45 V was found as the anodic peak side for determination the insulin. Optimisation and characterisation studies performed at 0,45 V with differential pulse voltammetry. Conclusion: The study successfully identified stable and easy-to-use insulin concentrations, indicating the potential of the newly developed immunosensor for applications in clinical biochemistry laboratories.

Integration of metformin-loaded MIL-100(Fe) into hydrogel microneedles for prolonged regulation of blood glucose levels

The transdermal drug delivery based on microneedles (MNs) provides a suitable and painless self-administration for diabetic patients. In this work, the hydrogel-forming MNs were firstly fabricated using poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and chitosan (CS) as matrix. A hypoglycemic drug, metformin (Met), had been loaded into MIL-100(Fe). Then, both of free Met and Met-loaded MIL-100(Fe) were integrated into hydrogel-forming MNs for regulation of blood glucose levels (BGLs) on diabetic rats. After penetrated into the skin, the free Met could be firstly released from MNs. Due to the absorption of interstitial fluid and subsequent release of loaded Met from MIL-100(Fe), leading to a sustainable and long-term drug release behaviors. A notable hypoglycemic effect and low risk of hypoglycemia could be obtained on diabetic rat models in vivo. The as-fabricated hydrogel-forming MNs expected to become a new type of transdermal drug delivery platform for transdermal delivery of high-dose drugs to form a long-term hypoglycemic effect.

Phytochemical and pharmacological properties of the genus Tamarix: a comprehensive review.

The genus Tamarix in the Tamaricaceae family consists of more than 100 species of halophyte plants worldwide that are mainly used to improve saline-alkali land and for coastal windbreaks, sand fixation, and afforestation in arid areas. A considerable number of species in this genus are also used as traditional medicines to treat various human diseases, especially in Asian and African countries. This review presents a comprehensive summary of 655 naturally occurring compounds derived from the genus Tamarix, categorized into flavonoids (18.0%), phenols (13.9%), tannins (9.3%), terpenoids (10.5%), essential oils (31.0%), and others (17.3%). The investigation revealed that the crude extracts and phytochemicals of this genus exhibited significant therapeutic potential, including anti-inflammatory, anti-Alzheimer, anticancer, antidiabetic, antibacterial, and antifungal activities. Six species of Tamarix have anticancer effects by causing cancer cell death, inducing autophagy, and stopping cell division. Seven species from the same genus have the potential for treating diabetes by inhibiting α-glycosidase activity, suppressing human islet amyloid polypeptide, regulating blood glucose levels, and modulating autophagy or inflammation. The focus on antibacterial and antidiabetic effects is due to the presence of volatile oil and flavonoid components. Extensive research has been conducted on the biological activity of 30 constituents, including 15 flavonoids, 5 phenols, 3 terpenoids, 1 tannin, and 6 others. Therefore, future research should thoroughly study the mechanisms of action of these and similar compounds. This is the most comprehensive review of the phytochemistry and pharmacological properties of Tamarix species, with a critical assessment of the current state of knowledge.

Dynamics of a New Delayed Glucose–Insulin Model with Obesity

In this work, a new glucose–insulin model incorporating time delay and obesity is developed to gain insights of its dynamical mechanisms. Through the method of multiple scales, we theoretically demonstrate that time delay can drive the system to yield Hopf bifurcation, thereby producing oscillating solutions that are consistent with the simulation results. Moreover, obesity changes the level of glucose, but cannot induce oscillations. In particular, it is found that under the combined effect of obesity and time delay, obesity delays the appearance of Hopf bifurcation which is induced by time delay. Results show that a low calorie diet can achieve therapeutic effects including reducing blood glucose fluctuations and insulin resistance, which can be used as an adjuvant for the treatment of diabetes. In addition, our results indicate that the delay, together with an optimal rate of model parameters can cause a variety of dynamics and induce glucose oscillations. The result obtained in this paper may help to better understand the obesity, diabetes, and the interaction between glucose and insulin, so that control strategies can be designed to better regulate blood glucose levels and fluctuations and mitigate the occurrence of type-2 diabetes.

&lt;i&gt;In Vitro&lt;/i&gt; Anti-oxidant and Antidiabetic Activity of the Leaves of &lt;i&gt;Stereospermum sauveolens&lt;/i&gt; (Roxb.) DC

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic condition characterised by a persistent rise in blood glucose levels. Diabetes is just one of the many disorders that can be treated using natural remedies made from plants. Stereospermum suaveolens (Roxb.) DC, belongs to the family Bignoniaceae, commonly known as Padri. It is employed as a folk remedy in southern India to cure diabetes. Aim: The aim of this study is to assess the potential anti-diabetic and antioxidant properties of the hydroalcoholic extract of S. suaveolens (Roxb.) DC leaves through phytochemical screening and in vitro assays. Methods: Leaves of S. suaveolens (Roxb.) DC were collected and processed to obtain a hydroalcoholic extract. The extract was subjected to qualitative analysis to identify the presence of various phytochemical constituents. The free radical scavenging activity of the extract was evaluated using Nitric oxide radical scavenging assay and DPPH racial scavenging assay. In vitro anti-diabetic studies were performed through α-amylase inhibition assay and glucose uptake assay. Results: The hydroalcoholic extract of S. suaveolens (Roxb.) DC leaves exhibited the presence of bioactive compounds. The extract demonstrated dose-dependent free radical scavenging activity in the in vitro antioxidant assays. The extract showed remarkable inhibitory activity against α-amylase, suggesting its potential in controlling carbohydrate digestion. Also the extract significantly enhanced glucose uptake by yeast cells, indicating its potential to regulate blood glucose levels. Conclusion: The findings of this study indicate that the hydroalcoholic extract of S. suaveolens (Roxb.) DC leaves possesses both antioxidant and anti-diabetic properties. These results suggest its potential as a natural medicinal agent for the management and treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus.

A Glucose-Responsive Cannula for Automated and Electronics-Free Insulin Delivery.

Automated delivery of insulin based on continuous glucose monitoring is revolutionizing the way insulin-dependent diabetes is treated. However, challenges remain for the widespread adoption of these systems, including the requirement of a separate glucose sensor, sophisticated electronics and algorithms, and the need for significant user input to operate these costly therapies. Herein, a user-centric glucose-responsive cannula is reported for electronics-free insulin delivery. The cannula-made from a tough, elastomer-hydrogel hybrid membrane formed through a one-pot solvent exchange method-changes permeability to release insulin rapidly upon physiologically relevant varying glucose levels, providing simple and automated insulin delivery with no additional hardware or software. Two prototypes of the cannula are evaluated in insulin-deficient diabetic mice. The first cannula-an ends-sealed, subcutaneously inserted prototype-normalizes blood glucose levels for 3d and controls postprandial glucose levels. The second, more translational version-a cannula with the distal end sealed and the proximal end connected to a transcutaneous injection port-likewise demonstrates tight, 3-d regulation of blood glucose levels when refilled twice daily. This proof-of-concept study may aid in the development of "smart" cannulas and next-generation insulin therapies at a reduced burden-of-care toll and cost to end-users.

Targeting Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease with Hawthorn Ethanol Extract (HEE): A Comprehensive Examination of Hepatic Lipid Reduction and Gut Microbiota Modulation.

Recent studies have highlighted the lipid-lowering ability of hawthorn ethanol extract (HEE) and the role played by gut flora in the efficacy of HEE. Our study sought to explore the effects of HEE on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in normal flora and pseudo germ-free mice. The results showed that HEE effectively diminished hepatic lipid accumulation, ameliorated liver function, reduced inflammatory cytokine levels and blood lipid profiles, and regulated blood glucose levels. HEE facilitated triglyceride breakdown, suppressed fatty acid synthesis, and enhanced intestinal health by modulating the diversity of the gut microbiota and the production of short-chain fatty acids in the gut. In addition, HEE apparently helps to increase the presence of beneficial genera of bacteria, thereby influencing the composition of the gut microbiota, and the absence of gut flora affects the efficacy of HEE. These findings reveal the potential of hawthorn for the prevention and treatment of NAFLD and provide new perspectives on the study of functional plants to improve liver health.