Scientists have investigated the potential pharmacological effects of hirsutine, an alkaloid derived from Uncaria rhynchophylla, in improving insulin resistance (IR) in both liver and heart tissues. Their objective is to address the increasing prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and the associated complications such as liver and heart diseases.
Hirsutine administration effectively reduced weight gain, improved hyperglycemia, and mitigated IR in high-fat diet-induced diabetic mice. Notably, hirsutine reversed hepatic steatosis and cardiac hypertrophy in these mice. In vitro studies further elucidated the mechanisms behind hirsutine’s effects, showing activation of insulin signaling pathways, increased glucose consumption, and enhanced glycolysis in insulin-resistant liver and heart cells.
The study provides valuable insights into hirsutine’s potential as a therapeutic agent for managing insulin resistance and alleviating diet-induced diabetes. The findings support further research into the development of hirsutine-based treatments for diabetes prevention and management.
Hu et al., “Hirsutine ameliorates hepatic and cardiac insulin resistance in high-fat diet-induced diabetic mice and in vitro models,” Pharmacological Research, vol. 177, p. 105917, Mar. 2022, doi: .
