EP_098. Exploring the antidiabetic activities of Psychotria species: A systematic review

Nurul Nadia Mohd Nazri¹, Alfi Khatib^2*, Sharifah Nurul Akilah Syed Mohamad², Bisha Fathamah Uzir¹, Muhammad Rusdi Ahmad Rusmili¹ and Mohd Zuwairi Salman³

1. Department of Basic Medical Science, Kulliyyah of Pharmacy, International Islamic University Malaysia, 25200 Kuantan, Pahang Darul Makmur, Malaysia

2. Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Kulliyyah of Pharmacy, International Islamic University Malaysia, 25200 Kuantan, Pahang Darul Makmur, Malaysia

3. Institute of Biological Sciences. Faculty of Science, Universiti Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur

*Corresponding author: Alfi Khatib. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder affecting millions worldwide, with rising prevalence and significant healthcare burdens. Despite the availability of synthetic antidiabetic drugs, their long-term use is often associated with adverse effects and high cost, prompting the search for plant-based alternatives. The Psychotria genus, with over 1600 species in the Rubiaceae family, has shown promising antidiabetic potential due to its rich phytochemicals including alkaloids, flavonoids, and terpenoids.

OBJECTIVE(S): This study aimed to systematically review and compile published findings on the phytochemical constituents and antidiabetic potential of Psychotria species based on studies conducted over the last decade.

MATERIALS & METHODS: Following PRISMA guidelines, a literature search (2011– 2021) was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Europe PMC using the keywords "psychotria AND (phytochem* OR compound* OR metabolit*) AND (diabet*)". Titles and abstracts were screened, followed by full-text assessment. Inclusion criteria focused on English-language articles reporting antidiabetic activity of Psychotria species. Data on plant species, extraction methods, bioactive compounds, mechanisms of action, and study models were extracted and analyzed.

RESULTS: From 688 identified records, 15 studies met the inclusion criteria. Thirteen Psychotria species including P. malayana, P. dalzellii, P. viridiflora, and P. ipecacuanha demonstrated antidiabetic activity, primarily via α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibition. Key phytochemicals identified include glutamine, palmitic acid, 1-monopalmitin, and α- terpinyl-β-glucoside. Some bioactive compounds were identified for the first time in Psychotria malayana. Limitations included inconsistent phytochemical data and scarce in vivo studies.

CONCLUSION: The Psychotria genus has a potential as a source of antidiabetic agents. However, further research is needed to standardize extracts, validate mechanisms, and conduct clinical trials.

KEYWORDS: Psychotria, Compound, Metabolite, Phytochemical, Diabetes