Pharmacological Effects of Catalpol in Metabolic Disorders
Summary
Catalpol is an iridoid glucoside derived from Rehmannia glutinosa that has emerged as a promising agent in the prevention and management of metabolic disorders. Extensive in vitro and in vivo studies have demonstrated its capacity to regulate glucose homeostasis, ameliorate insulin resistance and improve lipid profiles. These effects are mediated by multi-target modulation of key cellular signalling pathways, including activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), PI3K/Akt and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), as well as inhibition of pro-inflammatory and oxidative stress cascades such as JNK/NF-κB and AGE/RAGE. In experimental models of type 2 diabetes, catalpol has been shown to lower fasting glucose, enhance insulin sensitivity and protect pancreatic β-cell integrity. Its lipid-lowering activity reduces circulating triglycerides and cholesterol while preventing hepatic steatosis. In addition, catalpol exerts antioxidant effects by elevating endogenous defence enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase) and reducing reactive oxygen species, thereby protecting vascular endothelium and organ function. Preliminary pharmacokinetic assessments indicate good oral bioavailability, blood–brain barrier penetration and a favourable safety profile, supporting its potential development as a natural scaffold for novel anti-diabetic agents.
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Pharmacological Effects of Catalpol in Metabolic Disorders publication trend
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Technical terms
Iridoid glucoside: A type of monoterpenoid compound, such as catalpol, found in certain plants and known for diverse bioactivities.
AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK): A cellular energy sensor that regulates glucose uptake and lipid metabolism.
PI3K/Akt pathway: A signalling cascade involved in insulin action, cell survival and metabolic regulation.
Reactive oxygen species (ROS): Chemically reactive molecules derived from oxygen that can cause cellular damage when in excess.
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs): Nuclear receptors that modulate lipid and glucose metabolism.
Advanced glycation end-products (AGEs): Protein or lipid modifications formed by non-enzymatic sugars reacting with amino groups, implicated in diabetic complications.
References
- Multiple Biological Effects of an Iridoid Glucoside, Catalpol, and Its Underlying Molecular Mechanisms. Biomolecules (2019).
- Catalpol in Diabetes and its Complications: A Review of Pharmacology, Pharmacokinetics, and Safety. Molecules (2019).
- Antidiabetic and antioxidant effects of catalpol extracted from Rehmannia glutinosa (Di Huang) on rat diabetes induced by streptozotocin and high-fat, high-sugar feed. Chinese Medicine (2016).
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