α-Glucosidase Enzyme Inhibitors From Natural Products

Diabetes mellitus characterized by hyperglycemia is one of the most important health issues worldwide. Diabetes mellitus is spreading very rapidly while currently available drugs to manage diabetes are associated with many serious side effects. Among a number of diabetic targets, α-glucosidase is regarded as an important therapeutic target to manage hyperglycemic conditions. The inhibitors of α-glucosidase enzyme actually slow down the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates and thus decrease the insulin demand. In this way, the sudden increase in blood glucose level after a meal can be controlled independently of insulin. Currently, efficacious α-glucosidase inhibitors with low toxicity are highly desirable. Several medicinal plants have been evaluated for their potential role against α-glucosidase enzyme. In this chapter, we wish to offer an overview on α-glucosidase inhibitors occurring from natural sources reported during the period 2000–15.