Effect of alpha-glucosidase inhibition on the nonenzymatic glycation of glomerular basement membrane.

1. The effect of the alpha-glucosidase inhibitor Acarbose on integrated glycemic control and on nonenzymatic glycation of glomerular basement membrane was examined in streptozotocin diabetic rats. 2. Treatment with Acarbose for 8 weeks after induction of diabetes significantly reduced the level of HbA1c and of glomerular basement membrane glycation. 3. Acarbose exerts a significant antihyperglycemic effect and has a salutary influence on the nephropathic process in experimental diabetes.