Effect of quercetin and Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench on lipids metabolism and blood glucose through AMPK‐α in diabetic rats (HFD/STZ)

Abstract

Phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) is a key enzyme in the glyconeogenesis pathway. The AMP‐activated protein kinase alpha (AMPK‐α) pathway regulates PEPCK, which itself is activated by the AMP/ATP ratio and liver kinase B1 (KB1). The Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench (okra) plant contains a large amount of quercetin that can function as an agonist or an antagonist. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of quercetin flavonoid and A. esculentus extract on the level of AMPK‐α expression and associated metabolic pathways. The findings demonstrate that metformin, quercetin, and okra extract may significantly raise AMPK‐α levels while significantly lowering PEPCK and hormone‐sensitive lipase (HSL) levels, in addition to improving glucose and lipid profiles. By stimulating KB1, these substances increased AMPK‐α activation. Additionally, AMPK‐α activation improved insulin resistance and Glucose transporter type 4 (GLUT4) gene expression levels. Since AMPK‐α maintains energy balance and its activity has not been reported to be inhibited so far, it could be a potent therapeutic target. Practical applications The development of effective AMPK‐α agonists and antagonists holds promise for the treatment of metabolic disorders like diabetes. Dietary polyphenols are a valuable source for developing new drugs. However, due to the lack of understanding of the underlying mechanisms of their effect on cells, their use in the treatment of diabetes is controversial. In addition to chemicals that have medicinal benefits, chemists are searching for less harmful substances. Using plants containing bioactive chemicals for this purpose can be a good alternative to chemical drugs.

Comprehensive Overview of the Effects of Amaranthus and Abelmoschus esculentus on Markers of Oxidative Stress in Diabetes Mellitus

“…For instance, two groups recently demonstrated a very high content of phenols and flavonoids in Abelmoschus esculentus mucilage and seed peel, respectively [101,102]. In contrast, other studies showed an increased half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) in Abelmoschus esculentus extracts and mucilage compared to vitamin C [101,103]. This suggests the reduced antioxidant capability of Abelmoschus esculentus.…”