Abstract: In this study, the protective effect of water extract from Lagerstroemia specious L. (Banaba) (BWE) on insulin secretion in oxidation-damaged HIT-T15 pancreatic cells was explored. Insulin secretion was determined by ELISA assay, and the BWE-induced insulin secretion capability was evaluated by Western-blotting. The anti-apoptotic capability of BWE was analyzed by mitochondria membrane potential (MMP) change and Bcl-2 protein expression. Results indicated that BWE could enhance insulin secretion and inhibit oxidative stress-induced cell apoptosis in HIT-T15 pancreatic cells.

Key words: Lagerstroemia specious L., oxidation-damaged, anti-apoptosis, insulin secretion