Triterpenoid From Persimmon Leaves (Diospyros kaki L.f.) Exerted Anti–Type 2 Diabetic Effects and No Toxicity in Experimental Animals

Abstract

The acute and subchronic toxicity, along with the anti–type 2 diabetic effects, of a triterpenoid extract from persimmon leaves (Tri DKL) was evaluated in animals. Acute oral toxicity was assessed in Swiss mice, whereas subchronic toxicity was investigated in Wistar rats given Tri DKL at 125 and 375 mg/kg body weight (BW) daily for 90 days. Type 2 diabetes was induced in Swiss mice via an 8-week high-fat diet, followed by a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (100 mg/kg BW). Diabetic mice were subsequently treated with Tri DKL at 250 and 750 mg/kg BW/day for 2 weeks. Results showed that Tri DKL, even at the highest dose of 2500 mg/kg, did not produce any signs of acute toxicity in mice. In rats, subchronic administration of 125 and 375 mg/kg BW/day caused no significant alterations in general behaviours, haematological parameters or hepatic/renal function markers. In diabetic mice, Tri DKL significantly reduced blood glucose levels at both doses. It also lowered total cholesterol and hepatic malondialdehyde levels. Notably, at 250 mg/kg BW/day, Tri DKL decreased triglyceride levels while improving liver and pancreatic tissue histology. Overall, Tri DKL exhibited no acute or subchronic toxicity in animals and demonstrated hypoglycemic and lipid-lowering effects in type 2 diabetic mice, suggesting potential therapeutic benefits.