Valorization of Sesamum indicum Seeds for Diabetes Prevention: Antiglycative, Antioxidant, and Digestive Enzyme Inhibitory Activities in Support of the Health Objectives of the Simandou 2040 Program in Guinea
Diabetes mellitus represents a major public health concern, particularly in developing countries where accessible preventive strategies remain limited. This study aimed to evaluate the biological properties of Sesamum indicum seeds for their potential use in diabetes prevention, in alignment with the health and agro-industrial objectives of the Simandou 2040 Program in Guinea. Three extracts (aqueous, hydroethanolic, and methanolic) were prepared and subjected to phytochemical screening, as well as in vitro antioxidant, antiglycation, digestive enzyme inhibitory, and anti-inflammatory assays. The findings revealed that the hydroethanolic extract exhibited the highest extraction yield (30.4%) and the greatest levels of total polyphenols (118.4 ± 3.0 mg GAE/g DE), flavonoids (69.7 ± 2.1 mg QE/g DE), and tannins (39.6 ± 1.8 mg CE/g DE). This extract also demonstrated the most potent biological activities, including antioxidant activity (DPPH, IC50 = 61.7 μg/mL), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP, 3.12 ± 0.11 mmol Fe2+/g DE), inhibition of protein glycation (78.4% ± 2.0%), fructosamine formation (63.8% ± 1.9%), and fluorescent advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) (68.2% ± 1.8%). Furthermore, it showed strong inhibitory effects against α-amylase (74.2% ± 2.0%; IC50 = 88.6 μg/mL) and α-glucosidase (85.4% ± 2.1%; IC50 = 66.3 μg/mL), along with notable anti-inflammatory activity (71.2% ± 1.9%). These results suggest that Sesamum indicum seeds are a promising source of bioactive compounds that may contribute to the prevention of diabetes and its associated complications. Their valorization could support the development of locally produced nutraceuticals, enhance food security, and promote national economic diversification.
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