Phytochemicals for Diabetes
A special issue of International Journal of Molecular Sciences (ISSN 1422-0067). This special issue belongs to the section "Molecular Pharmacology".
Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 April 2026
Special Issue Editor
Interests: sustainability in public health; occupational medicine; environment-associated diseases; sick building syndrome; one health
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Special Issue Information
Diabetes mellitus has become one of the most concerning public health problems worldwide, with its prevalence continuing to increase at an alarming rate. The disease is characterized by chronic hyperglycemia and is often accompanied by severe complications, including cardiovascular disorders, nephropathy, neuropathy, and retinopathy. Despite advances in pharmacological treatment, long-term glycemic control and prevention of complications remain difficult to achieve, underscoring the need for complementary strategies. Current medications have numerous side effects that impact the quality of life of the patient.
Plant-derived active compounds, phytochemicals, have emerged as promising candidates in this context. Polyphenols, flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, saponins, and related classes of natural molecules have demonstrated a wide range of antidiabetic properties. These include enhancement of insulin sensitivity, modulation of glucose homeostasis, attenuation of oxidative stress, and regulation of inflammatory pathways. Importantly, recent experimental and clinical studies suggest that phytochemicals may have protective effects not only on glycemic control but also on the progression of diabetes-related complications.
The aim of this Special Issue is to highlight recent advances in understanding the mechanistic pathways, therapeutic potential, and clinical applications of phytochemicals in diabetes prevention and management. We welcome contributions that span from molecular and preclinical investigations to clinical studies and nutraceutical innovations.
Scope and Topics of Interest
Contributions may include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Mechanisms through which phytochemicals influence glucose metabolism and insulin signaling;
- Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory roles of natural compounds in diabetes;
- Protective effects of plant-derived molecules against diabetic complications (neuropathy, nephropathy, retinopathy, and cardiovascular dysfunction);
- Experimental studies regarding phytochemicals in diabetes mellitus and its complications;
- Dietary strategies enriched with phytochemicals for diabetes prevention and control;
- Comparative analyses of different phytochemical classes in experimental diabetes models;
- Interactions between phytochemicals and conventional antidiabetic therapies;
- Clinical evidence on the efficacy and safety of phytochemicals in diabetic patients;
- Advances in formulation technologies to enhance bioavailability of plant-based compounds.
Dr. Cosmin Mihai Vesa
Guest Editor
Manuscript Submission Information
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Keywords
- phytochemicals
- diabetes mellitus
- insulin resistance
- oxidative stress
- inflammation
- plant extracts
- polyphenols
- flavonoids
- nutraceuticals
- diabetic complications
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