Shikonin Increases Glucose Uptake in Muscle Cells
Author Information
Author(s): Öberg Anette I., Yassin Kamal, Csikasz Robert I., Dehvari Nodi, Shabalina Irina G., Hutchinson Dana S., Wilcke Mona, Östenson Claes-Göran, Bengtsson Tore
Primary Institution: Karolinska Institutet
Hypothesis
Can shikonin improve glucose uptake in skeletal muscle cells and plasma glucose levels in diabetic rats?
Conclusion
Shikonin increases glucose uptake in muscle cells through a calcium-dependent, insulin-independent mechanism.
Supporting Evidence
- Shikonin increased glucose uptake in L6 skeletal muscle myotubes.
- Shikonin treatment significantly decreased plasma glucose levels in diabetic rats.
- Shikonin stimulated GLUT4 translocation to the cell surface in muscle cells.
Takeaway
Shikonin helps muscle cells take in more sugar, which is good for people with diabetes.
Methodology
The study used L6 skeletal muscle cells and diabetic Goto-Kakizaki rats to assess glucose uptake and plasma glucose levels.
Potential Biases
The authors have financial interests in Glucox Biotech AB, which may introduce bias.
Limitations
The long-term effects of shikonin were not assessed, and potential toxic effects were not examined.
Participant Demographics
Diabetic Goto-Kakizaki male rats, aged 6 weeks.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.01
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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