Scientists have found that betulin, an organic substance extracted from birch bark, has anti-diabetic properties. In an experiment on laboratory rats, it was discovered that betulin normalizes blood glucose levels and has a positive effect on pancreatic function. These findings will contribute to the prevention of type 2 diabetes. The has published detailed information about betulin and the features of the experiment. The Institute of Biotechnology of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences carried out experimental work on animals under state assignment No. 122020900136-4 to support the biotechnology of betulin isolation from plant raw materials, which was funded by the Priority-2030 program.
It is characterized by dysfunction or death of the β cells of the pancreatic islets of Langerhans responsible for insulin production, resulting in permanent hyperglycemia (accumulation of large amounts of sugar in the blood) and insulin resistance. Type 2 diabetes is a chronic disease caused by improper and excessive diet, sedentary lifestyle, and stress.
During an experiment on laboratory rats modeled to have type 2 diabetes, the anti-diabetic properties of betulin were confirmed. The experimental animals were injected with an emulsion of betulin through a gastric tube. The substance was administered at dosages of 20 mg/kg and 50 mg/kg, and the procedures lasted for 28 days.