Preparation, Characterization, and Functional Evaluation of a Novel Recombinant Hypoglycemic Protein with Multifunctional Effects

The widespread use of hypoglycemic drugs often leads to significant drug resistance in patients. Therefore, there is an urgent need for continuous innovation and research on new hypoglycemic drugs. In this study, we prepared a novel recombinant hypoglycemic protein (RHP) based on a tandem repeat of a ginseng-derived peptide sequence by combining genetic engineering technology with multicopy tandem technology. Comprehensive biochemical analysis shows that RHP has an appreciable inhibitory effect on both α-glucosidase (α-GC) and α-amylase (α-AL), among which Thr, Gly, and Glu amino residues play a key role in its mechanism of action. In addition, in vitro cell-based experiments indicate that RHP effectively alleviates insulin resistance in HepG2 cells by increasing cellular glucose uptake, inhibiting the production of reactive oxygen species and the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and restoring mitochondrial function. This study provides a solid scientific basis for the future development of functional foods or anti-diabetes drugs.