Technologies

At 40 and 80 min. following oral glucose challenge, the TPFA treated group had significantly lowered plasma glucose concentrations compared to the control group.

Invention Summary:Rutgers scientists have developed a proprietary method of extracting and purifying a novel type of piperidine flavan alkaloids from the leaves of Combretum micranthum (kinkeliba) and a procedure for the preparation of total piperidine flavan alkaloids (TPFA) that possess anti-diabetic properties.

Kinkeliba is a highly regarded medicinal plant in Africa, with roots, bark, fruit and leaves being used. In its native Sub-Saharan Africa, the fresh and brewed leaves of kinkeliba have a long established history as being safe multi-functional agents that are consumed regularly for a broad range of health, prophylactic, curative, and anti-disease benefits. Kinkeliba herbal teas are a readily available niche specialty consumer product.

Our scientists have identified and isolated specific compounds from kinkeliba leaves that result in a significant glucose-lowering functionality and can be administered in efficacious dosages as a dietary supplement or food additive. Animal studies have shown that the isolated compounds:

• decrease fasting plasma glucose levels
• increase glucose tolerance
• lower plasma insulin levels, and
• decrease liver expression of the PEPCK gene, which indicates antidiabetic activity