A garden plant would be key to fighting diabetes | Rosario3.com

Scientists at the University of British Columbia and the Canadian Glycomics Research Center have discovered a compound produced by an ornamental plant that would be of great help in the fight against diabetes.

clarify that plants in their metabolic processes produce what is called plant metabolites. It is estimated that half of modern drugs are derived from these compounds, of which more than 200,000 are known, as reported by Muy Interesante

However, it is difficult to identify them and get them the amount needed to produce therapeutic effects. In this context, the scientists discovered a metabolite produced by a well-known garden plant, of the genus Crocosmia, characterized by its fan-shaped leaves and bright orange flowers.

It turns out that one of the most used medications for treating Diabetes, type 1 and type 2, are the alpha-glucosidase inhibitors, which decrease the number of drugs in the body. absorption of carbohydrates in the digestive system (and, consequently, blood sugar) after meals. . The problem is that the inhibition of alpha-glucosidases – a type of enzyme – also produces unpleasant side effects: diarrhea, flatulence and abdominal pain.

Ten years ago, and after badyzing 30,000 plant extracts and other organisms, the scientists they finally found a compound that had the same inhibitory effects without causing intestinal discomfort, and found in the bulbs of the species Crocosmia × crocosmiiflora

However, it could not be produced in large quantities without knowing the very complex biochemical mechanisms. genes involved in its biosynthesis.

Now, this natural substance has been synthesized, having an inhibitory effect on the intestinal absorption of carbohydrates. In addition, scientists have cloned the genes for these enzymes for a wild tobacco plant to manufacture on its own.