Natural Products: Potential Source of DPP-IV Inhibitors

Out of multiple therapeutic targets, DPP-IV is the lead target for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Natural products have always been available for the possible lead generation against various diseases and disorders. In the present review, we have covered various natural sources which have experimentally validated anti-diabetic activity for type 2 diabetic patients with specific focus on the DPP-IV inhibition. Out of all, the most potent DPP-IV inhibitors were found to be resveratrol, luteolin, apigenin and flavone having activity in nanomolar range. Standard drugs like sitagliptin, saxagliptin, and diprotin A have complex structures as compared to these phenolic compounds. Flavonoids and phenolic compounds have their added advantages in being present in a number of functional foods and carry antioxidant properties as well. So, the scientists working on the new chemical entity hunting for the type 2 diabetes treatment can also explore these natural sources for lead generation.