Phloridzin

Phlorizin is a natural product, first isolated from the bark of apple trees, that reduces plasma glucose levels by blocking renal and intestinal glucose absorption through inhibition of SGLT1 and SGLT2. It competitively inhibits (competes with D-glucose) the initial rate of α-methyl-D-glucopyranoside (α-MDG) uptake in the nM range. Phlorizin has been shown to enhance insulin sensitivity and to have antioxidant properties. Sodium-glucose cotransporter 1 (SGLT1) is a high affinity, low capacity transporter abundant in the small intestine, with some expression in the kidney as well. SGLT2 is a low affinity, high capacity transporter in the kidney that accounts for approximately 90% of glucose reabsorption into the blood stream. Selective inhibition of SGLT2 is a potential strategy for reducing plasma glucose levels as a treatment for diabetes.