COMPARATIVE EVALUATION OF THE ENDOCRINE REGULATORY EFFECTS OF VERNONIA AMYGDALINA AND GONGRONEMA LATIFOLIUM IN STREPTOZOTOCIN-INDUCED DIABETIC RATS

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is a complex metabolic disorder characterized by persistent hyperglycaemia resulting from impaired insulin production, reduced insulin effectiveness, or tissue resistance to insulin action. The disease is associated with progressive deterioration of endocrine regulation, leading to disturbances in glucose metabolism and the development of various pathological complications. Although several pharmacological agents are currently available for diabetes management, many target specific aspects of the disease process and may not provide comprehensive correction of the underlying metabolic and endocrine dysfunctions. Insulin, a key pancreatic hormone produced by beta cells, plays a central role in maintaining glucose homeostasis by facilitating glucose uptake and utilization by body tissues. Impairment of insulin secretion or function results in excessive glucose accumulation in the bloodstream, contributing to clinical manifestations such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, increased hunger, weight loss, and fatigue. This highlights the need for therapeutic approaches capable of addressing multiple pathways involved in diabetes progression. The exploration of bioactive compounds from medicinal plants, including Vernonia amygdalina and Gongronema latifolium, presents a potential strategy for improving endocrine regulation and metabolic control in diabetic conditions