Allium hookeri root extract restores streptozotocin-induced pancreatic β-cells dysfunction in a type 1 diabetic rat model.

BACKGROUND: Allium hookeri (AH), a traditional herb in Southeast Asia, has been documented for its significant health benefits in metabolic diseases. This study was to explore the effects of AH root extract (AHRE) on pancreatic β-cell regeneration in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. METHODS: AHRE (100 mg/kg body weight) was administered daily to STZ-induced diabetic rats for 2 weeks. Serum glucose and insulin levels, total-cholesterol, hemoglobin A1c, alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, and pancreatic peroxynitrite and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances were measured. Protein expression associated with pancreatic β-cell apoptosis and regeneration was analyzed through Western blotting. RESULTS: Diabetic rats exhibited hyperglycemia, insulin deficiency, increased levels of oxidative stress markers, and pancreatic β-cell apoptosis and impairment. AHRE treatment reduced hyperglycemia, insulin insufficiency, and oxidative stress, implying a reduction in pancreatic β-cell apoptosis and restoration of pancreatic β-cell regeneration-associated protein expression. CONCLUSIONS: AHRE can facilitate β-cell regeneration in the impaired pancreatic islets through STZ by reducing oxidative stress markers and apoptosis in pancreatic tissue. Owing to pancreatic β-cells are susceptible to oxidative stress, the protective and enhancing effects of AHRE on the apoptosis and regeneration of these cells may be a significant mechanism for its hypoglycemic effect.