The Hypoglycaemic Effect of Saudin

Abstract

Saudin (80 mg/kg p.o.) caused marked hypoglycaemic effects in fasted mice. At a dose of 40 mg/kg i.p., saudin exerted hypoglycaemic effect in non-alloxanized rather than in alloxanized fasted mice. In rats, saudin (40 mg/kg i.p.) was found to produce a hypoglycaemic effect in fed but not fasted non-alloxanized animals. The blood glucose level of alloxanized rats remained unchanged. The hypoglycaemic effect of saudin was associated with a significant decrease in the plasma insulin activity in rats. Saudin was also found to inhibit insulin release by isolated perfused islets of Langerhans. Saudin's hypoglycaemic effect may involve mechanisms not related to insulin secretion.