montbretin A

montbretin A (MbA) is a complex acylated flavonol glycoside naturally occurring in the corms of the ornamental plant montbretia (*Crocosmia × crocosmiiflora*). It acts as a highly potent and specific competitive inhibitor of human pancreatic alpha-amylase (HPA), with a reported Ki of approximately 8 nM. By selectively blocking HPA, montbretin A prevents the initial breakdown of complex carbohydrates into smaller sugars in the small intestine, thereby attenuating postprandial blood glucose spikes. This mechanism of action is targeted for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity. Unlike currently available alpha-glucosidase inhibitors like acarbose, montbretin A's higher selectivity for human pancreatic amylase over intestinal glucosidases suggests a potential for significantly fewer gastrointestinal side effects such as gas and bloating. The drug is currently being evaluated in Phase 1 clinical trials for safety, tolerability, and glucose-lowering efficacy.

Other names

MbA