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Research
by Rhys on July 21, 2006
The team discovered that Gardenia extract contains the chemical "genipin." Previously known for its ability to cross-link proteins, they now find that the chemical also blocks the function of the enzyme called uncoupling protein 2 (UCP2) through another mechanism. In both animals and humans, high concentrations of UCP2 appear to inhibit insulin secretion from the pancreas and increase the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Study coauthor Chen-Yu Zhang's familiarity with traditional Chinese medicine led the team to consider the extract of Gardenia jasminoides Ellis fruits. Pancreas cells taken from normal mice secreted insulin when treated with the extract, they found, whereas the cells of mice lacking UCP2 did not. The results suggested that the extract worked through its effects on the UCP2 enzyme.
"When I first saw the results, I was in disbelief," Lowell said. "I didn't think we could ever be that lucky." However, blinded repetition of the initial experiments confirmed the results every time, he said.
This is the latest in a strong trend of natural treatments sought by diabetics, including Bitter melon and cinnamon. Could this be where the future of diabetes research is going?
Permalink: Gardenia Fruit Still A Hot Diabetes Topic
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Vote for Gardenia Fruit Still A Hot Diabetes Topic:
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Rating: 9.25 out of 4 vote(s) cast.
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Response from:
Mike Woods
(12/16/07 6:45pm)
Very useful information. Topical
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