The effects of EGb761 on islet function in db /db mice

Objective To explore the effects of Ginkgo biloba extract 761 on islet function in db/db mice and relative mechanisms.Methods Ten db / db mice aged 8 weeks were randomized to EGb761 group and db / db group,fed with 100 mg /(kg.d) and placebo respectively.Five age-matched db / misty mice were concurrently treated with placebo as non-diabetic control group.Body weight and fasting blood glucose were measured every week.After 8 weeks treatment,intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test was performed and immunohistochemical staining of NADPH oxidase subunit gp91phox and p22phox were determined.Results Eight weeks EGb761 treatment improved glucose tolerance,insulin secretory function and insulin sensitivity.And EGb761 treatment greatly decreased staining intensity of oxidative stress sources including p22phox and gp91phox in islets,thus preserved islet mass.Conclusion EGb761 treatment remarkably decreased expression level of NADPH oxidase in β-cells,and prevented the damage from excess oxidative stress,thus protected β-cell function.