Abstract

Diabetes mellitus (DM), particularly Type 2 diabetes (T2DM), remains a global health concern, affecting millions worldwide, including 4.3 million adults in the Philippines. This chronic condition, driven by insulin resistance and insufficient insulin secretion, calls for safer and more effective treatment alternatives. While current treatments like oral antihyperglycemic drugs often come with side effects, such as liver toxicity and gastrointestinal distress, plant-derived compounds have gained attention for their potential to offer more sustainable solutions. One promising source of bioactive compounds lies in the symbiotic relationship between plants and their endophytic fungi, microorganisms that produce metabolites with potential antidiabetic properties. Piper betle L. (betel leaf), traditionally used for its hypoglycemic effects, serves as a candidate, with its associated endophytic fungi potentially inhibiting key enzymes involved in carbohydrate metabolism. This study aims to explore the antidiabetic potential of endophytic fungi isolated from betel leaves by identifying and characterizing them, assessing their ability to inhibit α-amylase and α-glucosidase in vitro, and evaluating their effects on blood glucose regulation in vivo. Moreover, the research seeks to contribute to knowledge of plant-associated microorganisms, particularly endophytic fungi, as safer and more effective alternatives for diabetes treatment.