Birch-Derived Substance Exhibits Anti-Diabetic Properties, Study Finds
Scientists have found that betulin, an organic substance extracted from birch bark, has anti-diabetic properties. In an experiment on laboratory rats, it was discovered that betulin normalizes blood glucose levels and has a positive effect on pancreatic function. These findings will contribute to the prevention of type 2 diabetes. The International Journal of Molecular Science has published detailed information about betulin and the features of the experiment. The Institute of Biotechnology of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences carried out experimental work on animals under state assignment No. 122020900136-4 to support the biotechnology of betulin isolation from plant raw materials, which was funded by the Priority-2030 program.
“Betulin is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Our experiment found that betulin can also prevent type 2 diabetes by reducing oxidative stress in the body, lowering blood sugar levels, and decreasing the severity of diabetogenic reactions. It is widely available, which makes it economically affordable,” explains Irina Danilova, Head of the Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics at UrFU.
It is characterized by dysfunction or death of the β cells of the pancreatic islets of Langerhans responsible for insulin production, resulting in permanent hyperglycemia (accumulation of large amounts of sugar in the blood) and insulin resistance. Type 2 diabetes is a chronic disease caused by improper and excessive diet, sedentary lifestyle, and stress.
“The International Diabetes Federation reports that diabetes affects 10 percent of adults today, and this number is increasing every year. To prevent the disease’s incidence from increasing, new approaches must be explored. Betulin has high potential for solving this problem. It can be used to create extracts and functional foods such as porridge, yogurt, and cheese that counteract glycemia, or an increase in blood sugar,” explains Elena Kovaleva, a leading researcher at the Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Green Methods and Biotechnologies at UrFU.
During an experiment on laboratory rats modeled to have type 2 diabetes, the anti-diabetic properties of betulin were confirmed. The experimental animals were injected with an emulsion of betulin through a gastric tube. The substance was administered at dosages of 20 mg/kg and 50 mg/kg, and the procedures lasted for 28 days.
“Betulin reduced oxidative stress in diabetic rats and increased insulin production in the body. The dose of 50 mg/kg showed an effective prophylactic effect against diabetic nephropathy and the severity of diabetogenic symptoms,” concludes Irina Danilova.