Diabetes Mellitus: Current Understanding, Emerging Targets, And Natural Therapies

Type II diabetes is an incurable condition that affects a substantial number of individuals globally. It covers around 90% of the overall number of diabetes cases. It has already expanded globally and has emerged as a substantial cause to disability and death, especially among younger age cohorts. India has witnessed an epidemiological shift, which indicates that there has been a drop in mortality owing to illnesses that may be spread, as well as disorders associated to pregnancy, delivery, neonates and nutrition. At the same time, there has been a rise in non-communicable illnesses and trauma. Several cross-sectional studies undertaken in various regions of India have showed a rise in the incidence of diabetes, with a surge in prevalence from 16.4 to 20.3 in smaller cities and peri-urban areas. In rural regions, the incidence of diabetes grew from 5.8% to 14.7%, whereas in urban areas it climbed from 7.2% to 16.2%. Drugs like metformin, insulin, and GLP-1 receptor agonists have proven success in the treatment of diabetes. Nevertheless, the quest for novel treatment targets continues. This review explores the involvement of AMPK, FBPase, GK, GPR119, GSK-3, PTP1B and SGLT2 in the evolution of diabetes mellitus. The review additionally looks at the possibility of natural therapies, namely the antidiabetic benefits of herbs like Cinnamomum zeylanicum, Panax Ginseng, and Momordica Charantia and other plants. This review provides a multidimensional picture of diabetes care by combining current research on traditional treatments, new pharmacological targets, and plant-based medicines. It underlines the importance of ongoing research and a multifaceted approach that combines innovative treatments, lifestyle changes, and global health activities to combat the increasing diabetes epidemic.