Antidiabetic natural products: Roadmap 2024

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder marked by persistent hyperglycemia due to insulin insufficiency or resistance. This chapter delves into therapeutic strategies for managing diabetes, emphasizing natural anti-diabetic agents and their pharmacological mechanisms. We explore natural alternatives as inhibitors of glucose metabolism, including α-glucosidase inhibitors, DPP-IV inhibitors, diacylglycerol O-acyltransferase 1 and 2 inhibitors, fructokinase inhibitors, and fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase inhibitors. These agents significantly reduce postprandial hyperglycemia and enhance glucose homeostasis. The chapter also focuses on natural products promoting pancreatic beta-cell regeneration to restore endogenous insulin production; enhance glucose transport improving insulin sensitivity and facilitating glucose uptake. Ayurveda provides excellent natural strategies for managing diabetes using traditional remedies including single herbs, herbo-mineral formulations, medicated butters (Ghritas), oils (Taila), fermented syrups (Asava-aristas), and Guggulu (Commiphora mukul). Furthermore, the chapter reviews antidiabetics from other natural resources, including marine and microbial sources, detailing their unique bioactive compounds and therapeutic potential. The tradition-guided translation paradigm is highlighted as a novel approach for drug discovery, inspired by traditional knowledge. In conclusion, the chapter underscores the promising role of natural products in diabetes management, advocating for an integrative approach that merges traditional wisdom with contemporary research. This comprehensive overview aims to inform future studies and therapeutic developments, contributing to safer and more effective treatments for diabetes.