In vitro Modulation of Pancreatic Insulin Secretion and Extra Pancreatic Insulin Action, Enzymatic Starch Digestion and Protein Glycation by Terminalia chebula Extracts

Aim: Traditional plant treatments have been used throughout the world for the therapy of diabetes mellitus.

Study Design: Using multiple in vitro models; this study was designed to investigate the efficacy and mode of action of Terminalia chebula Retz. (Combretaceae) used traditionally for treatment of diabetes.

Place and Duration of Study: School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulster, 2001-2004.

Results: T. chebula aqueous extract stimulated basal insulin output and potentiated glucose-stimulated insulin secretion concentration-dependently in the clonal pancreatic beta cell line, BRIN-BD11 (p<0.001). The insulin secretory activity of plant extract was abolished in the absence of extracellular Ca2+ and by inhibitors of cellular Ca2+ uptake, diazoxide and verapamil, (p<0.001). Furthermore, the extract increased insulin secretion in depolarised cells and augmented insulin secretion triggered by IBMX, but not by tolbutamide or glibenclamide. T. chebula extract did not display insulin mimetic activity but it enhanced insulin-stimulated glucose transport in 3T3 L1 adipocytes by 280% (p<0.001). At (0.5-5.0mg/mL) concentrations, the extract also produced 22-84% (p<0.001) decrease in starch digestion In vitro and inhibited protein glycation (p<0.001) at 1mg/ml aqueous extract.

Conclusion: This study has revealed that water soluble bioactive principles in T.chebula extract stimulate insulin secretion, enhance insulin action and inhibit both protein glycation and starch digestion. The former actions are dependent on the bioeffective component(s) in the plant being absorbed intact. Future work assessing the use of Terminalia chebula as dietary adjunct or as a source of active antidiabetic agents may provide new opportunities for the treatment of diabetes.