The loss of pancreatic β-cells plays a central role in the pathogenesis of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, and many studies have been focused on ways to improve glucose homeostasis by preserving, expanding and improving the function of β-cell. Elevated levels of free fatty acids such as palmitate might contribute to the loss of β-cells. A marine squid, Loliolus beka has long been used as a food in Korea, China, Japan and Europe due to its tender meat and high taurine content. Here, we investigated the protective effects of a hot water extract of Loliolus beka meat (LBM) against palmitate toxicity in Ins-1 cells, a rat β-cell line. Treatment with LBM extract protected against palmitate-induced cytotoxicity and scavenged overproduction of nitric oxide, alkyl, and hydroxyl radicals. In addition, LBM extract protected against palmitate-induced DNA damage and β-cell dysfunction. These findings suggest that LBM protects pancreatic β-cells from palmitate-induced damage. LBM could be a potential therapeutic functional food for diabetes.
Keywords: Beta-cell; Diabetes; Loliolus beka; Loliolus beka meat; Seaweed; Taurine.