To further utilize glycosaminoglycan from Urechis unicinctus, the hypoglycemic effect and possible mechanism of glycosaminoglycan on diabetic mice were evaluated. Diabetes was induced in mice by intraperitoneal injections of streptozotocin for 3 consecutive days and fed with high-sugar and high-lipid fodder. After diabetes was confirmed, the hypoglycemic effect of glycosaminoglycan from U. unicinctus was investigated in the diabetic mice. Results demonstrated that glycosaminoglycan could significantly decrease blood glucose concentrations, HOMA-IR, AUG, and liver MDA content in diabetic mice. In addition, it significantly enhanced liver SOD and GSH-Px activity, as well as liver GCK activity and hepatic glycogen levels. Glycosaminoglycan from U. unicinctus exhibited efficacy against diabetes, suggesting its potential use as a natural intervention against diabetes.
Keywords: Urechis unicinctus; diabetic mice; glycosaminoglycan; hypoglycemic effect.