Potential Role of Naringin in Diabetes Management
Improvement of Insulin Resistance
Insulin resistance is one of the core pathologic mechanisms of type 2 diabetes. It has been found that naringin can improve insulin sensitivity by activating the AMPK signaling pathway (adenylate-activated protein kinase), promoting the transfer of glucose transporter (GLUT4) to the cell membrane, and enhancing the uptake and utilization of glucose by cells. For example, in animal experiments, naringin reduced the insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR) and improved glycemic control in obese mice.
Inhibition of Carbohydrate Absorption
Naringin has a certain inhibitory effect on α- glucosidase and α- amylase, which are involved in the breakdown of carbohydrates in the intestinal tract (e.g., conversion of starch to glucose). By delaying the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates, naringenin reduces postprandial blood glucose spikes, similar to the mechanism of action of the hypoglycemic drug acarbose.
Protection of pancreatic β-cells
Oxidative stress and inflammatory response are important causes of pancreatic β-cell damage and functional decline. Naringin’s antioxidant (e.g., activation of Nrf2/ARE pathway) and anti-inflammatory (e.g., inhibition of NF-κB pathway) properties can reduce oxidative damage and apoptosis of pancreatic islet β-cells, and maintain their insulin secretion function. Animal studies have shown that naringenin can improve the morphology of pancreatic islets and increase insulin secretion in diabetes model rats.
Regulate lipid metabolism and improve the risk of complications
Diabetes is often accompanied by dyslipidemia (e.g., high triglycerides, high cholesterol), and naringin can reduce serum lipid levels and reduce the risk of complications such as atherosclerosis by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase (a key enzyme in cholesterol synthesis) and activating PPARγ (a nuclear receptor that regulates lipid metabolism).