Objective: To observe the hypoglycemia effect of polysaccharide from Atractylodes macrocephala (PAM) in spontaneous type 2 diabetic db/db mice. Method: Type 2 diabetic db/db mice were divided into model group

positive control group (metformin hydrochloride 250 mg · kg-1)

three dose of PAM (300

90

30 mg · kg-1) and administrated orally once daily for 4 weeks. Body weight and general physical signs were observed during the treatment. The level of fast blood glucose(FBG) was determined at the second and the fourth week and the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT)

fast plasma insulin(Ins) and lipid level were determined after administration for 4 weeks. The insulin sensitivity index (ISI) was calculated based on insulin level. Result: Compared with the model group

db/db mice treated by PAM were in better station

smooth hair

as well as lower food and water intakes. PAM (300

90 mg · kg-1)could significantly decrease the levels of FBG

Ins

and increase the ISI;meanwhile PAM could decrease the serum glucose levels in 0.5

2 h after glucose administration and lower the area under curve of glucose. Conclusion: PAM could significantly decrease the blood glucose and improve the glucose tolerance. The hypoglycemic effect of PAM may be related to decreasing the plasma insulin and improving the insulin sensitivity.