STUDY OF EFFECT OF STERCULIA FOETIDA SEEDS ON INSULIN RESISTANCE IN TYPE II DIABETES MELLITUS MODEL IN RATS

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is characterized by insulin resistance and impaired glucose metabolism. With the rising interest in plant-based interventions, Sterculia foetida seeds have attracted attention for their potential antidiabetic properties. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of Sterculia foetida seed extract on insulin resistance in a rat model of T2DM. Male Wistar rats were divided into normal, diabetic control, and treatment groups. T2DM was induced using a combination of high-fat diet and low-dose streptozotocin (STZ). After confirmation of diabetes, rats in the treatment group received Sterculia foetida seed extract orally for a specified duration. Fasting blood glucose, serum insulin levels, and insulin resistance (assessed by HOMA-IR) were measured. Additional biochemical parameters and histopathological examination of pancreatic tissues were conducted. Treatment with Sterculia foetida significantly reduced fasting blood glucose and HOMA-IR values compared to the diabetic control group. Serum insulin levels improved, indicating enhanced insulin sensitivity. Histological analysis supported these findings, showing improved islet morphology in treated rats. Sterculia foetida seed extract demonstrated promising effects in reducing insulin resistance and improving glycemic control in T2DM rats. Further studies are needed to isolate active compounds and validate its therapeutic potential in humans.