Effect of water caltrop (Trapa bispinosaRoxb.) pericarp extract on improving insulin resistance in STZ-induced diabetic mice

Abstract

Background: The treatment of diabetes with plant ingredients such as in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is an alternative to classical chemotherapy. Purpose: To explore the ingredients of total dried water caltrop (Trapa bispinosaRoxb.) pericarp powder and a dried ethanol extract for their capacity to reduce insulin resistance. Methods: A treatment group received water caltrop (Trapa bispinosaRoxb.) pericarp powder (at one dose) or extract (at three doses) for four weeks with inclusion of proper control groups. The different indexes were measured four weeks after administration. Results: Treatment could significantly improve the health index of type 2 diabetic mice. The mRNA and protein expression of SIRT1/PGC1α and PI3K/Akt signaling pathways were significantly increased, while the mRNA expression of forkhead transcription factor (FoxO1) was decreased in the treatment group. Conclusions: oral administration of water caltrop (Trapa bispinosaRoxb.) pericarp powder in the treatment of diabetes may be achieved by restoring pancreatic function, improving oxidative stress and liver gluconeogenesis.

Keywords

• Type 2 diabetes
• Water caltrop pericarp
• Insulin resistance
• SIRT1/PGC1-α pathway