Experimental model proposed to deduce pharmacological evidence of the beta-cell neogenesis activity of Argyrolobium roseum vis-a-vis an evaluation of its hypoglycemic activity

BACKGROUND: Argyrolobium roseum is described in texts for its botanical aspects with no mention of its therapeutic uses. Recently, a solvent fraction of this plant has been reported to possess insulin secretagogue activity. OBJECTIVE: Primary objective of the study was to evaluate the hypoglycemic activity of different fractions of Argyrolobium roseum plant. Secondary objective was to devise a model for detecting its beta-cell neogenesis activity. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Alcoholic fraction (AR) was studied in fasting, glucose-loaded and streptozotocin (STZ)-treated hyperglycemic rats. For deducing beta-cell neogenesis activity, a sub-lethal dose of STZ, causing delayed death in the animals, was administered. RESULTS: AR in a dose of 200 mg/kg showed hypoglycemic activity in fasting and STZ-treated rats. With sub-lethal dose of STZ, recovery from hyperglycemia was seen. CONCLUSION: AR of Argyrolobium roseum possesses hypoglycemic and a possible beta-cell neogenesis activity. Further studies are required to confirm its beta-cell neogenesis potential by cytological methods and to establish its role in the treatment of type 2 diabetes.