Figure 9.

Schematic diagram of the proposed mechanisms by which powder or water extract of yam (Dioscorea batatas), and allantoin regulate blood glucose. Administration of yam or allantoin increased the GLP-1 level, responsible for enhancing insulin biosynthesis and transcription, improved β-cell function and mass, and reduced apoptosis in β-cells, controlling insulin and glucose levels. They also increased the antioxidant level and decreased the MDA level, which ultimately decreased oxidative stress protecting pancreatic β-cells and other organs.