Pungent agents derived from the fruits of Zanthoxylum armatum DC. are beneficial for ameliorating type 2 diabetes mellitus via regulation of AMPK/PI3K/Akt signaling

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), the main type of diabetes, is a common chronic metabolic disease and a serious health concern worldwide. The aim of this study was to investigate the anti-diabetic effects and underlying mechanisms of pungent substances in Zanthoxylum armatum DC (ZA) fruit (PAZ), which are both edible and medicinal. We firstly investigated the possible molecular mechanisms of the PAZ on T2DM using network pharmacology and online databases. Furthermore, the predicted results were explored by Glucosamine induced AML12 experiments in vitro. After PAZ intervention, ROS levels decreased, MDA levels of oxidative stress indicators decreased, and SOD, GSH, and CAT levels increased compared to the model group. Thus, the pungent agents from the fruits of Z. armatum are beneficial for ameliorating type 2 diabetes mellitus via regulation of AMPK/PI3K/AKT signaling and reducing oxidative stress levels and exerting an anti-insulin resistance effect.