Macrophages in Inflammation, Insulin Resistance, and Therapeutic Targets: Exploring the Potential of Graptophyllum pictum

Abstract

Type 2 diabetes has reached epidemic proportions globally, with insulin resistance (IR) serving as a major pathogenic factor that frequently presents alongside obesity. Chronic low-grade inflammation, primarily mediated by macrophages, contributes to IR and T2DM. The urgent need for safer, more targeted, and mechanism-based therapies has driven increasing interest in natural compounds with immunomodulatory effects. This review explores the molecular pathways linking macrophage-driven inflammation to IR, evaluates current therapeutic strategies targeting macrophages and pro-inflammatory cytokines, and examines the potential of Graptophyllum pictum as a natural intervention. G. pictum, rich in flavonoids, phenolics, and other bioactive compounds, exhibits potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and hypoglycemic activities. Its ability to modulate cytokine production and macrophage activity makes it a promising natural agent for mitigating inflammation-induced IR. Given the limitations of current therapies, future studies should aim to isolate key bioactive compounds and conduct clinical trials to demonstrate their efficacy and safety in treating IR and T2DM.