Effects of luteolin 5-O-beta-rutinoside in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.

We have investigated the antidiabetic activity of luteolin 5-rutinoside in streptozotocin(STZ)-induced diabetic rats. Treatment for 20 days with 2 mg/kg increased both pancreatic insulin and DNA content. When both luteolin 5-rutinoside (2 mg/kg) and glibenclamide (1 mg/kg) were administered concurrently to STZ-diabetic rats, a marked antidiabetic activity was achieved. This effect was evidenced by a significant decrease in glycemia levels (> 50%), a 2.5-fold increase in insulin blood levels and an increase in body and pancreas weight, compared to the diabetic control group.