Evaluation of anti-diabetic effects of 20% and 40% fractions of Marrubium propinquum methanolic extract on streptozotocin-induced diabetic male mice

Abstract

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disease characterized by hyperglycemia resulting from defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both. It has been estimated that in traditional medicine, over a thousand plant species, including Marrubium genus, are used for the treatment of diabetes.Objective: Evaluation of anti-diabetic effects of 20% and 40% fractions of Marrubium propinquum methanolic extract on streptozotocin-induced diabetic male mice Materials and Methods: M. propinquum methanolic extract was fractionated using SPE method. Male mice were divided into 7 groups (n=5): healthy control group, control group receiving 40% fraction (100 mg/kg), diabetic control group, diabetic positive control group receiving metformin (100 mg/kg), diabetic group receiving 20% fraction (100 mg/kg), and two diabetic groups receiving 40% fraction (100 and 300 mg/kg). Diabetes was induced by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin at a dose of 40 mg/kg for 5 days. After the onset of diabetes, interventions were performed for 18 days, and every day the weight, water and food intake were measured, while blood glucose levels were measured every 3 days. On the last day, blood samples were taken from the hearts during surgery, and liver tissues were separated. Results: Administration of the fractions resulted in reduced blood glucose levels, increased weight, decreased food and water intake, increased serum insulin and TAC levels, and decreased serum levels of MDA and liver enzymes. Conclusion: The 40% fraction of M. propinquum methanolic extract likely has anti-diabetic effects by increasing insulin secretion and cellular sensitivity to insulin. Therefore, it may play a protective and therapeutic role in managing diabetes.