Alpha-glucosidase inhibitory effect of anti-diabetic metal ions and their complexes

We found alpha-glucosidase inhibitory (alpha-GI) effect of metal ions and their complexes which showed the high blood glucose lowering effect in diabetic model animals. The Cu(II) ion and its complexes showed strong alpha-GI activity greater than clinically used acarbose in in vitro studies. Furthermore, in in vivo experiments, alpha-GI action was newly discovered in normal ddy mice. These results suggested that one of action mechanisms of the anti-diabetic metal ions and complexes is related to the alpha-GI effects. (C) 2009 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.