New preclinical study evaluates benefits of citrus flavonoids in combination with Metformin in prediabetics

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The research and development team at Ingredients by Nature (Montclair, CA) has conducted an experiment using the Simulator of Human Intestinal Microbial Ecosystem (SHIME) to investigate the effects of its citrus flavonoid ingredient, Eriomin, on the microbiome of prediabetics. For this study, SHIME was inoculated with the microbiota of prediabetic volunteers, which grew inside compartments that mimic the ascending intestinal colon. SHIME uses three of these compartments to have an average response of the microbiota being tested.

“Assessment of Eriomin on SHIME allowed us to perform pre-clinical data analysis in a timely and cost-effective manner. SHIME was inoculated with microbiota of prediabetic patients, and it was given Eriomin alone, or in combination with metformin,” said Thais Cesar, PhD, chief scientific advisor to Ingredients by Nature, in a press release. An associate professor at the School of Pharmaceutical Sciences at São Paulo State University, Brazil, Cesar led the design and testing of the ingredient, alongside Katia Sivieri, PhD, professor of Food Microbiology of Pharmacy School at Sao Paulo State University.

“Both treatments increased the abundance of bacteria genus Sutterella, Subdoligranulum, and Bifidobacterium. These microorganisms are associated with the improvement of the host's glycemic metabolism, reducing of insulin resistance, and production of short chain fatty acids (SCFA),” explained Cesar. “In addition, Eriomin increased propionic acid, and in association with metformin, also increased acetic acid. Both SCFA are important sources of energy and stimulate the growth of microbiota and benefit the host health.”

“The combination of our patented Eriomin with metformin constitutes a promising supplement to aid in prediabetes management, which is an overwhelming issue in the U.S.,” said Rob Brewster, president of Ingredients by Nature. “Because of the positive outcomes, our R&D team will now conduct a study in humans to test this potent combination. Having Dr. Cesar and her team continue to provide data and insights into Eriomin’s potent effects for prediabetes management is invaluable.”

These preclinical results of the SHIME analysis were selected to be presented at the 2nd International Congress of Bioactive Compounds, taking place November 9th and 10th at the University of Campinas in São Paulo, Brazil. They have yet to be published.