The effects of an arabinogalactan-protein from the white-skinned sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) on blood glucose in spontaneous diabetic mice.

We examined the effects of an arabinogalactanprotein (WSSP-AGP) from Ipomoea batatas L. on hyperglycemia in db/db mice. An oral glucose tolerance test indicated significantly decreased plasma glucose levels by WSSP-AGP. Additionally, an insulin tolerance test found improvement in insulin sensitivity due to treatment with WSSP-AGP. This suggests that amelioration of insulin resistance by WSSP-AGP causes to lead its hypoglycemic effects.