Terpenoids as potential phytoconstituent in the treatment of diabetes: From preclinical to clinical advancement

Abstract

Background: Diabetes mellitus, a hyperglycemic condition associated with multitudinous organ dysfunction, is a hallmark of the metabolic disorder. This life-threatening condition affects millions of individuals globally, harming them financially, physically and psychologically in the course of therapy.

Purposes: The course therapy for illnesses has undergone ground-breaking transformations due to recent technical advances and insights. Alternatively, the administration of hyperglycemia-reducing agents results in several complications, including severe cardiovascular disease, kidney failure, hepatic problems, and several dermatological conditions. Consideration of alternate diabetic therapy having minimal side effects or no adverse reactions has been driven by such problems.

Study design: An extensive literature study was conducted in authoritative scientific databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science to identify the studies elucidating the bioactivities of terpenoids in diabetic conditions.

Methods: Keywords including 'terpenoids', 'monoterpenes', 'diterpenes', 'sesquiterpenes', 'diabetes', 'diabetes mellitus', 'clinical trials', 'preclinical studies', and 'increased blood glucose' were used to identify the relevant research articles. The exclusion criteria, such as English language, duplication, open access, abstract only, and studies not involving preclinical and clinical research, were set. Based on these criteria, 937 relevant articles were selected for further evaluation.

Results: Triterpenes can serve as therapeutic agents for diabetic retinopathy, peripheral neuropathy, and kidney dysfunction by inhibiting several pathways linked to hyperglycemia and its complications. Therefore, it is essential to draw special attention to these compounds' therapeutic effectiveness and provide scientific professionals with novel data.

Conclusion: This study addressed recent progress in research focussing on mechanisms of terpenoid, its by-products, physiological actions, and therapeutic applications, particularly in diabetic and associated disorders.

Keywords: Clinical progress; Diabetes management; Diabetes mellitus; Insulin resistance; Molecular pathway; Terpenoids.