Beneficial effect of flax seeds in

streptozotocin (STZ) induced

diabetic mice: isolation of active
fraction having islet regenerative
and glucosidase inhibitory
properties. - GreenMedInfo Summary
Abstract Title:
Beneficial effect of flax seeds in streptozotocin (STZ) induced diabetic mice: isolation of
active fraction having islet regenerative and glucosidase inhibitory properties.

Abstract Source:
Can J Physiol Pharmacol. 2013 May ;91(5):325-31. Epub 2013 Jan 16. PMID: 23656171

Abstract Author(s):
Menakshi Bhat Dusane, Bimba N Joshi

Article Affiliation:
Biometry and Nutrition Division, Agharkar Research Institute, G.G. Agharkar Road, Pune
411 004, India.

Abstract:
Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder that affects millions of people worldwide.
Present study highlights the antidiabetogenic property of Linum usitassimum active
fraction (LU6) in streptozotocin (STZ) induced diabetic Swiss mice. Treatment with LU6
fraction showed improved glucose utilization with increase in liver glucose-6-phosphate
dehydrogenase enzyme activity and normal glycogenesis in hepatic and muscle tissues.
Reduction in pancreatic and intestinal glucosidase inhibitory activity was observed with
LU6 treatment, indicating beneficial effects in reducing postprandial hyperglycemia
(PPHG). Normalization of plasma insulin and C-peptide levels were observed in diabetic
mice, indicating endogenous insulin secretion after the treatment with LU6. The
histochemical and immunohistochemical analysis on pancreatic islets suggests the role
of LU6 fraction in islet regeneration and insulin secretion as evident in increase
functional pancreatic islets producing insulin. Furthermore, significant insulin producing
islet formation was also observed in in vitro PANC-1 cells after LU6 treatment, indicating
the cellular aggregates to be newly formed islets. This suggests the potential of LU6
fraction in the formation of new islets in vitro, as well as in vivo. Thus, LU6 can be used
as a neutraceutical-based first-line treatment for diabetes.

Article Published Date : Apr 30, 2013