The novel role of Periploca laevigata Aiton extracts as antidiabetic and anti-inflammatory functions in pancreatic Β cells exposed to hyperglycaemia.

Abstract

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a major health issue characterized by glucose intolerance and insulin resistance, resulting in elevated blood glucose levels and insufficient insulin production by the pancreatic β-cells. This dysfunction triggers a chronic inflammatory immune response. Given the documented benefits of medicinal plants in managing diabetic complications and the therapeutic potential of Periploca laevigata Aiton (PL) extracts, this study evaluated their antidiabetic and anti-inflammatory properties using the pancreatic β-cell line INS-1E under hyperglycemic conditions. Root, fruit, and Leaf extracts of PL were prepared, phytochemically characterized, and assessed for anti-inflammatory effects via RT-qPCR in glucose-treated INS-1E cells. A non-cytotoxic concentration (0.125 mg/mL) was selected for all assays. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of tannins and flavonoids, compounds associated with antidiabetic and anti-inflammatory activity. Notably, PL extracts upregulated insulin gene expression, with Leaf extracts exhibiting the most pronounced effects: they significantly enhanced GLUT-2 and PDX-1 gene expression in glucose-treated INS-1E cells. Additionally, PL extracts downregulated iNOS while upregulating IL-10 gene expression. A trend toward reduced NF-κB and MCP-1 gene expression was also observed. Collectively, these results suggest that PL extracts could improve pancreatic β-cell function and mitigate inflammation, highlighting their potential as adjunct therapy for T2D.