Development of natural herbal medicines for managing metabolic syndrome in order to prevent type 2 diabetes

Funding: 2004: $36,400
2005: $72,266
2006: $71,759
2007: $35,893

Project Member(s): Qu, X.

Funding or Partner Organisation: Australian Research Council (Other funds for ARC projects)
Australian Research Council (ARC Linkage Projects)
Kanion Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd

Start year: 2005

Summary: Type 2 diabetes affects almost 7% of Australia~{!/~}s population. Its incidence continues to grow, as indicated by high rates of metabolic syndrome, a pre-stage of type 2 diabetes. Using novel and bio-molecular techniques, we will evaluate the effects and mechanisms of three natural compounds from anti-diabetic Chinese herbs on cellular and rodent models with metabolic syndrome. This study will provide scientific evidence as to how and why herbal compounds improve insulin resistance and abnormalities in glucose and lipids metabolism. The outcome of this project will support the development of natural products to manage metabolic syndrome and prevent type 2 diabetes.

Keywords: insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, prevention, natural herbal medicines,

FOR Codes: Endocrinology, Oriental Medicine and Treatments, Pharmacology not elsewhere classified, Endocrine organs and diseases (incl. diabetes), Diabetes, Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences not elsewhere classified, Traditional Chinese Medicine and Treatments, Traditional Chinese medicine and treatments , Clinical health

Acknowledgement of Country

UTS acknowledges the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation, the Boorooberongal people of the Dharug Nation, the Bidiagal people and the Gamaygal people, upon whose ancestral lands our university stands. We would also like to pay respect to the Elders both past and present, acknowledging them as the traditional custodians of knowledge for these lands.