Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 5, 2026
06:09
An In Ovo Model for Testing Insulin-mimetic Compounds
Published on: April 23, 2018
Study of the Hypoglycemic Activity of Rhamnolipids Using the In Ovo Model
Margarida Queirós1, Rute S Moura2,3, Eduardo J Gudiña1,4
1CEB-Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal.
Current Issues in Molecular Biology
|July 28, 2026
Summary
Rhamnolipids, derived from Pseudomonas aeruginosa, significantly lowered blood glucose in chicken embryos, matching insulin's effectiveness. These compounds show promise as novel diabetes treatments with no observed adverse effects on embryo development.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Pharmacology
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- Diabetes mellitus is a growing global health concern with increasing prevalence.
- Current pharmacological treatments for diabetes have limitations and potential adverse effects.
- There is a need for novel therapeutic alternatives with improved efficacy and safety profiles.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the hypoglycemic activity of rhamnolipids using an in ovo chicken embryo model.
- To compare the glucose-lowering effects of rhamnolipids with human insulin and a rapid-acting insulin analog.
- To explore the molecular mechanisms underlying the hypoglycemic effects of rhamnolipids.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the in ovo chicken embryo model to assess blood glucose levels.
- Administered rhamnolipids (from Pseudomonas aeruginosa #112 and commercial RL-90), human insulin, and FIASP®.
- Analyzed gene expression of glucose transporter 2 (glut2) and key gluconeogenic enzymes.
Main Results:
- Rhamnolipids significantly reduced chicken embryo blood glucose levels, comparable to insulin and FIASP®.
- No adverse effects on chicken embryo development were observed at tested concentrations.
- Rhamnolipids decreased glut2 gene expression, while insulins affected glut2 and gluconeogenic enzyme expression.
Conclusions:
- Rhamnolipids exhibit significant hypoglycemic activity in the chicken embryo model.
- Rhamnolipids represent a promising alternative for developing new diabetes treatments.
- Further research into rhamnolipids is warranted for diabetes symptom management.
