A group of researchers from the polytechnic institute and the state university of Virginia (USA) has developed a research with the purpose of describing how olive oil helps in prevention of diabetes type II and weight loss. They have demonstrated that compounds as oleuropein, contribute in the production of insulin and purify another molecule of signaling, known as aniline, responsible of producing damaging additions in diabetes type II.

Previously, it had been suggested that olive oil could help to lose weight, but it was unknown what specific compounds biochemical interactions contribute to these benefits.

This research has shed more light on this issue, experts have identified what compounds are the responsible of giving olive oil these benefits. The compound is known as oleuropein and it is a phenolic compound located in the green olive pulp and the olive leaves that is also located in extra virgin olive oil. It is the responsible of giving olive oil that characteristic bitter taste. This compound has antidiabetic functions and it promotes the insulin secretion stimulated by the glucose in ? cells, a type of cells of the pancreas that are the responsible of synthetizing and segregating insulin in order to control glucose blood level.

The research has demonstrated that the oleuropein has the capacity of inhibiting the cytotoxicity introduced by the amylin amyloid, a peptide hormone segregated by pancreatic ? cells at the same time that insulin. This compound helps the body to produce more insulin, facilitating the regulation of metabolism and allowing cells to use the sugar to obtain energy.

Different natural compounds present in olive oil have been analyzed in the research, including polyphenols and flavonoids, elements that have antidiabetics functions and are used in some drugs. Oleuropein was identified through this review, and its benefits to health.

 Based on the activation of cellular signaling used by other molecules that induce GSIS effects (Gamma-Secretase Inhibitors) in ? cells, researchers have demonstrated that the implication of the main kinase pathways is related to metabolism, the kinase protein A, kinase protein C, etc. The next step of this research is to prove the effect of the oleuropein and its compounds in the pancreatic deposit of amyloid aniline, as well as the regulation of hyperglycemia in laboratory animals with diabetes type II.